Birchview Elementary is proud to recognize Shelbie Smieja as the January Employee of the Month! Shelbie embodies the Birchview motto, “At BV, You Matter,” in every interaction with students, staff, and families. She goes above and beyond to make each and every student feel seen, valued, and capable, while supporting her colleagues with care, guidance, and positivity. Shelbie’s unwavering dedication, leadership, and can-do attitude make her a true model for our school community and a shining example of what it means to put students, and people, first.
A 5th grade teammate shared the following about Shelbie’s support, care, and leadership:
“In any profession, especially teaching, it is important to understand your own strengths and how to use them
to your advantage, while also having something you consistently strive to become. Shelbie embodies the
educator I hope to be. There is no shortage of superlatives to describe Ms. Smieja. She is a model of
consistency: punctual, professional, and able to adapt to whatever curveball is thrown her way. She is truly
gifted, and as someone returning to the profession, it has been such a gift to be part of Shelbie’s team.
Whenever I am unsure or unclear of what I am doing, I can always look to Shelbie for guidance. I know I speak
for many when I say that Shelbie has made a positive impact on me and our team.”
In addition to her classroom excellence, Shelbie serves as Birchview’s professional development lead teacher, working countless hours to ensure our professional learning is meaningful, student-centered, and engaging for staff. Her leadership in this role comes naturally, and her influence extends beyond our building. Shelbie has had the opportunity to present at both the state and national level on PLCs, sharing the powerful work
happening at Birchview and elevating our collective practice.
Most importantly, Shelbie’s impact is felt deeply by her students. She has a unique ability to see the best in each and every child, helping them feel included, important, and confident in themselves as learners. One student shared: “Ms. Smieja tries her best to understand you and what you need: she makes me feel included, important, and good about myself. Our classroom is a safe place to make mistakes and learn from them. I love Ms. Smieja!”
Birchview is incredibly lucky to have such a gifted and talented educator in Shelbie Smieja. Through her leadership, positivity, and unwavering commitment to students, staff, and families, she continues to make a meaningful difference in our school community. We are proud to celebrate this well-deserved recognition.