Behind the Scenes: Two Longtime School Supporters Get Big Recognition
A Night to Celebrate Quiet Dedication
In a world where recognition often fades as quickly as it arrives, two women who have poured their hearts into Highland Local Schools will finally receive the acclaim they deserve. Kristine Nerlich and Koula Makris have been named the winners of the 2026 Highland Pride Awards, an honor bestowed not by flashy accolades, but by a committee of staff, students, and community members who spent months sifting through nominations.
The awards will be presented at a school board meeting next Monday evening, followed by a small reception where the true value of this tribute becomes clear: it’s not about the ceremony, but the consistent impact.
The Educator Who Turns Classrooms into Adventure
Kristine Nerlich isn’t just a high school science teacher—she’s an architect of experiential learning. For nearly two decades, she has shaped young minds, but her most transformative work has come in the last three years. As the driving force behind student trips to Costa Rica, she’s sent nearly 100 students and teachers on journeys that blend fieldwork, cultural immersion, and environmental science—far beyond the confines of a typical lesson plan.
Beyond international expeditions, Nerlich leads the Environmental Club and coordinators the HOSA (Health Occupations Students of America) program, fostering the next generation of scientists and health professionals. One nomination summed up her influence perfectly: "A leader who creates chances for others."
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The Backbone Who Makes Everything Run
Koula Makris doesn’t stand in the spotlight, but her influence is woven into the fabric of Highland Local Schools. Since 2014, she’s been the unsung force keeping the school running—organizing teacher appreciation events, volunteering in classrooms, and even lending a hand in after-prom activities.
Her impact doesn’t stop there. The robotics team and art department have thrived with her support, while her family’s generous donations have bolstered student groups and school programs. Teachers who’ve worked with her put it simply: "She makes us feel valued."
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A Lesson in How Support Shapes Education
What makes this year’s Highland Pride Awards special isn’t just the recognition—it’s the story they tell. Kristine Nerlich embodies the direct, hands-on inspiration students need, while Koula Makris represents the behind-the-scenes dedication that keeps a school thriving.
Education isn’t just about lesson plans and hallways—it’s about the people who show up, year after year, in ways both seen and unseen. And this Monday, Highland Local Schools will finally say: We see you.
