Wayzata Public Schools

Employees of the Month: December

Employees of the Month: December
December Employees of the Month accepting their award

On Monday, December 9, 2024, the School Board recognized Anne Hultmann and Paulette Churness as the December Employees of the Month! Read their full nominations below.

Anne Hultmann

It is with great pride and gratitude that I write to recognize the profound impact Anne Hultmann has had on the Wayzata Central Middle School community. As one of our longest-tenured staff members in our Special Education department, Anne's dedication, compassion, and leadership have left an indelible mark on our school.

Anne serves as a teacher in one of our SDC classrooms, a role that demands both expertise and an exceptional level of care. She consistently goes above and beyond to meet the needs of her students, advocating for their success, and celebrating their achievements. Her thoughtful approach ensures that every student in her care feels valued and supported, and her efforts have transformed countless lives over the years.

Anne’s impact extends far beyond her classroom walls. She is a quiet yet steadfast leader in our school community, offering guidance and encouragement to both colleagues and students alike. Whether through mentoring new staff, collaborating with teams to improve outcomes, or simply offering a listening ear, Anne's presence is a source of strength for many in our building.

One of Anne’s most remarkable qualities is her sense of humor. In what can often be a demanding and challenging role, her ability to find joy and bring laughter to those around her is truly a gift. 

Anne embodies the spirit of CMS through her unwavering commitment to inclusion, her dedication to fostering a supportive community, and her passion for helping every student reach their full potential. Her contributions have been, and continue to be, a cornerstone of our school’s success.

We are excited to call Anne our CMS Teacher of the Month, her impact is immeasurable, and we are so fortunate to have her as a part of the CMS family.

Xavier Reed

Principal - Wayzata Central Middle School


Paulette Churness

Paulette Churness has had a profound impact on the Wayzata Central Middle School community, particularly within our Special Education department. Everyday, Paulette shows up to school, and showcases her dedication and unwavering commitment to students and colleagues, making her a true cornerstone of our school.

As one of our longest-tenured SPED staff members, Paulette has been a steadfast advocate for students with unique learning needs. She tirelessly works to ensure that every student in her care has the resources and support they need to thrive academically, and personally. Her ability to connect with her students and provide individualized care is nothing short of inspiring.

Beyond her work with students, Paulette has played an essential role in mentoring new staff members as they join our building. Her willingness to share her expertise, offer guidance, and provide encouragement has helped countless educators find their footing and flourish in their roles. 

Paulette’s work ethic is unmatched. She consistently goes above and beyond, not only meeting the needs of her students but also contributing to the overall success of our special education department. Her peers have described her as an “anchor” to the department.

This month, we are thrilled to honor Paulette Churness as our Staff Member of the Month. This recognition is a small token of our immense gratitude for her countless contributions to CMS. Paulette embodies the values of hard work, compassion, and leadership, and we are so fortunate to have her as part of our community.

Thank you, Paulette, for all you do. Your impact is immeasurable, and your work has truly made CMS a better place for students and staff alike.

Xavier Reed

Principal - Wayzata Central Middle School