On Thursday, Diamond View School Principal Dede Heimbigner announced the school’s Teacher of the Year and Classified Employee of the Year. Here is what she had to say about both honorees:
Jennifer Smith- Teacher of the Year
We are thrilled to honor Mrs. Jennifer Smith as Diamond View Middle School’s Teacher of the Year for 2024–2025. Mrs. Smith is a powerhouse educator, a passionate math leader, and a kind-hearted presence whose impact is felt far beyond the walls of her classroom.
Mrs. Smith pours tremendous effort into everything she does. As the PLC lead for the DV Math Team, a teacher innovator for the Susanville School District Math Lesson Study, and a key member of the SSD Math Adoption Team, she has played a central role in transforming math instruction across our district. Her commitment to continuous learning is unmatched—she seeks out professional development, applies new strategies with thoughtfulness and precision, and generously shares her knowledge with colleagues.
In the classroom, Mrs. Smith is dynamic and intentional. She creates rigorous and engaging lessons that push students to become confident, critical thinkers. Her students don’t just learn math—they live it. Mrs. Smith fosters positive mathematical identities, encourages productive struggle, and builds a community where students are empowered to share their reasoning and learn from one another. Every day, she ensures that all students experience high-quality, meaningful instruction that sets them up for success in school and in life.
Mrs. Smith’s dedication extends beyond teaching. She’s a proud and involved mother of five—three in college, one in high school, and one in elementary school—and she actively participates in her church and community. Her warmth, kindness, and depth of caring are evident in every interaction. She shows up, supports others, and always finds ways to grow as an educator and human being.
Mrs. Smith is not only a brilliant math teacher—she’s a beacon of what it means to lead with heart, integrity, and excellence. We are honored to celebrate her as our 2024–2025 Teacher of the Year.
Johnelle Wright- Classified of the Year
We are proud to recognize Johnelle Wright as our Classified Staff of the Year for 2024–2025. Coach Wright is a cornerstone of the Diamond View community, known for her unwavering dedication, genuine kindness, and deep commitment to our students and staff.
Working alongside Mr. Hartrum, she helps lead an outstanding PE program, creating a positive and structured environment where all students feel supported and encouraged. She also teaches a CTE class and coaches volleyball—roles she embraces with enthusiasm and excellence. She is dependable, hardworking, and always willing to go the extra mile.
Coach Wright is a firm but fair presence on campus. She holds students to high expectations while showing every single one of them what it means to be DV Loved. Her patience and compassion shine through in her daily interactions. She not only greets students and staff with a warm smile, but she also builds deep, meaningful relationships that leave a lasting impact during their middle school years.
Outside of school, she is a devoted mother of two, an active supporter of youth sports, and a vibrant member of our community. She’s an avid mountain biker and hiker who inspires others with her love for the outdoors. Her involvement in her church and community further reflect her generous and spirited nature.
Coach Wright embodies the heart of Diamond View. She is professional, approachable, and always has a “can do” attitude. We are incredibly lucky to have her on our team and honored to celebrate her as this year’s Classified Staff of the Year.
