Misty Sawner Recognized with Making a Difference Award
Pictured: Great American Bank staff, USD 232 Education Foundation members, and district staff with Misty Sawner
Misty Sawner, technology information systems specialist, has been honored with the Making a Difference Award for January for her extraordinary dedication and leadership. This award, sponsored by the USD 232 Education Foundation in partnership with Great American Bank, recognizes individuals who go above and beyond to make a meaningful difference in the lives of the students, families, and employees of USD 232.
Misty was nominated by 16 of her coworkers who were eager to recognize the truly immense effort she made to support the district through one of its most complex system transitions. Their nominations generated more than six pages of comments praising her commitment, patience, expertise, and unwavering support.
Throughout the Skyward Q migration, Misty served as a team of one and the district’s leading Skyward expert, dedicating countless hours to ensuring the district remained operational and compliant. She led in-person workshops, provided step-by-step guidance tailored to individual roles, responded to nearly round-the-clock emails and help tickets, and calmly supported staff across every building and department, including transportation, food service, and special education.
Colleagues consistently highlighted Misty’s attention to detail, positive attitude, and remarkable ability to handle frustration with patience and professionalism. Whether recreating critical reports, troubleshooting complex grading processes, or guiding staff through unfamiliar procedures, Misty ensured every user felt supported throughout the transition.
USD 232 employees said in their nominations:
“Misty exemplifies what it means to make a difference in our district. She spearheaded the migration from Skyward Educator to Skyward Q, going above and beyond to ensure every group received the training and support needed for a smooth transition.”
“Misty Sawner has made the migration to Skyward Q for the entire district possible. Without her putting in hours upon hours of work, we would not be a functioning school district.”
“Misty is always there to help in any way and if she does not have an answer, she will reach out to others to get it.”
“There were many tough days working out all the quirks and receiving feedback from everyone...Her attention to detail, expertise and perseverance served her well in this undertaking. I am really not sure how she was able to work through EVERYTHING on her own, but she did it and she did it exceptionally well!”
“Misty has done an amazing job of keeping us all calm, cool and collected as she has navigated us through the last few months of migration to Skyward Q. She is always cheerful and helpful, with a positive, can-do attitude….She is truly an excellent warrior in this technology battle-field!”
“Her ability to set up Skyward Q essentially on her own, and within an incredibly limited timeframe, was nothing short of remarkable. Misty’s tireless work, resilience, and commitment to supporting every building in our district make her an exceptional candidate for this award. She has truly made a difference for all of us.”
In recognition of her outstanding service, Misty received $300 from the USD 232 Education Foundation through its partnership with Great American Bank, along with a handcrafted award designed by students in the CTEC CAPS program.
Misty’s resilience, professionalism, and selfless commitment exemplify the very spirit of the Making a Difference Award. Her work not only ensured a successful Skyward Q transition but also strengthened the foundation that allows USD 232 staff to serve students and families effectively every day.
Nominate a USD 232 Employee
Do you know a USD 232 employee that goes above and beyond for the students, families, or other employees in our district? Submit a nomination and learn more about the Making a Difference Award.