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Meet Our November 2025 APS All Stars

We are proud to celebrate our November 2025 APS All Stars, a group of outstanding team members who bring heart, skill and dedication to our schools every day. Each honoree reflects the spirit of service and collaboration that defines APS, and their work strengthens the experiences of students, families and colleagues across our community. This month’s APS All Stars are:

Nicole Gustafson, Nottingham Elementary
Ms. Gustafson creates dynamic and engaging library experiences that connect to all content areas. She centers student voice in the morning news show and builds meaningful opportunities that spark curiosity and confidence.

Celebrating Nicole Gustafson at @nottingham.apsva.us for her creative, dedicated and thoughtful work as a librarian. She designs engaging lessons across subjects and centers student voice in the morning news show. #APSAllStars

Dr. Francisco Durán (@suptduran.apsva.us) 2025-11-14T16:12:42.394Z


Dr. Marianne Ellis, Barrett Elementary
Dr. Ellis has served APS for more than 30 years with deep compassion and expertise as a school psychologist. Her leadership in SEL curriculum development and internship coordination continues to strengthen equitable services across the division.

Honoring Dr. Marianne Ellis at @barrettaps.bsky.social for more than 30 years of outstanding service as a school psychologist. Her leadership, compassion and SEL work strengthen support for students across APS. #APSAllStars

Dr. Francisco Durán (@suptduran.apsva.us) 2025-11-14T20:06:24.656Z


Duane Lomis, Syphax Education Center
Mr. Lomis is a servant leader whose behind-the-scenes work ensures APS events run smoothly. His reliability, positivity and problem-solving approach help teams shine and bring excellence to everything he supports.

Recognizing Duane Lomis at Syphax for his servant leadership and problem-solving approach. His behind-the-scenes AV support ensures events run smoothly and helps our community shine. #APSAllStars

Dr. Francisco Durán (@suptduran.apsva.us) 2025-11-14T20:21:08.353Z


Sr. Cesar Espejo, Claremont Immersion
Mr.  Espejo supports students, families and staff through collaborative, thoughtful work inside and beyond the classroom. His leadership with Hispanic heritage programming and family engagement builds connection and strengthens the school community.

Applauding Cesar Espejo at @claremont.apsva.us for his kind, collaborative and responsive leadership. He supports Hispanic heritage programs, family engagement and student success with care and intention. #APSAllStars

Dr. Francisco Durán (@suptduran.apsva.us) 2025-11-14T20:24:05.403Z

Their impact reaches far beyond their classrooms and offices. They build welcoming spaces, support students with care and intention, and lift up those around them through creativity, compassion and leadership. You can read their full stories on our APS All Stars page and learn more about how they make a difference.

Help us continue celebrating the people who make APS special. Nominate an APS All Star today and shine a light on a staff member who goes above and beyond.

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Celebrating APS All Stars: June 2025

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