Staff Recognized with Red Devil Recognitions

A group of four staff members in the Clarence Central School District were recognized with Red Devil Recognition awards, which celebrate individuals that make a positive impact on the school community. 

Recognized during the District’s February 9, 2026 Board of Education meeting were Jocelyn Canaday, Cynthia Munich, David Smith and Julie Ticco. The award is presented to nominated individuals who exemplify District values such as kindness, respect, hard work and compassion.

Jocelyn Canaday, a physical education teacher at Sheridan Hill Elementary School, was nominated by teacher’s aide Kelli Farrell for her work creating opportunities for students of all abilities in the building.

“She consistently seeks creative ways to adapt lessons, build connections, and nurture a learning environment where every child feels seen and supported,” Farrell wrote in her nomination. “Her efforts often extend far beyond her classroom responsibilities, as she readily steps in wherever she is needed for the good of our students and our Sheridan Hill staff.”

Cynthia Munich, a first grade teacher at Ledgeview Elementary School, was nominated by Eleanor and Aaron Harman for her support of their son Jude after moving into the District from out of state the day before the start of the school year. 

“As a hard-working individual, Mrs. Munich took the time to reach out in order to optimize communication. As a kind and compassionate individual, she ensured that Jude had developed friendships among his classmates to foster not only his academic but his social growth,” the Harman’s nomination said. “I’m confident that Mrs. Munich treats all of her students with this special regard and respect.”

David Smith, science teacher at Clarence High School, was nominated by fellow teacher Geoffrey Koch for his work with students to organize the school’s annual Women in STEM Seminar for the third time in December. 

“Despite advances in workplace equality, women are still underrepresented in many STEM fields,” Koch said. “Dave has not only provided a safe and supportive environment in his physics classroom for these young ladies to learn and prepare for their careers ahead, but he has also continued to stay in touch with them and encourage them along the way. He has now created a platform for these women to network with each other and support each other as well.”

Julie Ticco, ESL teacher at Sheridan Hill Elementary School, was nominated and supported by Alexis and Hudson Beetem; Sariya, Rohan and Karina Graham along with Ella Matsuoka, Miyoko Beetem, Nita Makhija and Tai Matsuoka for her work creating the school’s International Night. The students’ nomination said the event was a fun way to share their families’ cultures and learn more about their classmates through food, dance and cultural displays. 

“Miss Ticco is a really nice teacher and she does a really good job at planning International Night,” said Sariya Graham, a fifth grade student. “International Night is always really fun because I get to see everyone else’s different cultures and get to eat really good food.”

To learn more about the award and to submit nominations, visit https://www.clarenceschools.org/district-info/red-devil-recognitions.