Every month during the 2025-2026 school year, Mesa Public Schools will recognize a Spotlight School. The Spotlight School at the March 12 meeting was Webster Elementary School. Below is a video about the school and Principal Kate Ryan’s remarks on each Spotlight honoree.
Adriana Khatami - certified spotlight
Adriana is the kind of educator who transforms a classroom into something much more than a place of learning. She creates a true sense of home. The moment you walk through her door, you feel warmth, belonging, and the unmistakable sense that every child matters. She intentionally builds a family atmosphere where students feel safe to take risks, celebrate who they are, and grow together. One of her most remarkable qualities is her ability to see potential where others might see insecurity. She has a gift for helping students reframe their perceived flaws into strengths, empowering them to take pride in what makes them unique.
Having served alongside Adriana for many years, her colleagues consistently describe her as an invaluable member of the team. She brings positivity, professionalism, and a readiness to support others whenever needed. Her deep experience as a veteran teacher is evident in her instructional expertise, particularly in her small-group work where she skillfully meets students exactly where they are. Her students consistently demonstrate strong growth and achievement, a reflection of both her high expectations and her unwavering commitment to their success.
Adriana’s impact is especially profound with her English Language Learners. She ensures that each student feels seen, heard, and empowered as they develop their unique voice. Through intentional instruction, meaningful relationships, and strong family partnerships, she has built lasting trust within our community. She tutors, communicates regularly with families, and invests countless hours to ensure her students thrive academically and personally. Adriana does not simply teach. She advocates, uplifts, and inspires. Our school community is better because of her dedication, passion, and heart for children.
Deborah Luu - classified spotlight
Deb is the steady presence every school hopes for and every classroom depends on. In a time when turnover has impacted many campuses, she has remained a constant, reliable, committed, and fully invested in her students and team. Her attendance is exceptional, her attitude unwavering, and she approaches each day with professionalism and quiet determination. She never complains, no matter the circumstances, and consistently models the kind of dependability that strengthens an entire school community.
In Room 3, Deb is far more than a support role. She is instructional leadership in action. She runs small groups with confidence and skill, and her instructional expertise is on par with any certified teacher. When the classroom teacher is out, Deb seamlessly steps in and runs the room with structure, clarity, and calm authority. She also trains and models for other instructional assistants. Her deep knowledge of each student, their strengths, triggers, goals, and growth areas, allows her to anticipate needs and respond proactively. This year, in particular, she has demonstrated extraordinary behavior management skills, navigating some of the toughest challenges with consistency and composure.
What truly sets Deb apart is her hands-on approach and humble spirit. She builds strong, trusting relationships with families, and parents consistently share how much they value her presence in their child’s life. She does the work without seeking recognition, yet her impact is unmistakable. Through consistency, expertise, and heart, Deb has helped anchor all of the instructional assistants in the RISE/SOAR program during a demanding year. Our students, and our school, are stronger because of her dedication.
Omar Munoz Godinez - student spotlight
Omar has been part of our school community since kindergarten, and throughout the years he has consistently demonstrated what it means to be a dedicated and well-rounded student. He maintains excellent attendance and approaches every school day with effort, responsibility, and a readiness to learn. Academically strong and highly motivated, Omar takes pride in his work and consistently strives to do his best on every assignment.
Beyond his academic success, Omar is known for his kindness and character. His teachers consistently note how respectful and considerate he is toward his classmates. Whether working in groups or participating in class discussions, Omar treats others with patience and respect, helping create a positive and supportive classroom environment. He is the type of student who quietly leads by example, showing others what it looks like to be responsible, thoughtful, and engaged in learning.
Omar also has a genuine love for learning. He listens carefully to directions, stays focused on his tasks, and regularly asks thoughtful questions that deepen his understanding. He comes to class prepared and ready to learn each day, never needing reminders to stay on task. His positive attitude, strong work ethic, and respectful nature make him a role model for his peers and truly a star student in our school community.