Support staff honored for service

It takes a wide variety of skills and services to keep a school system running smoothly, and four Buffalo-Hanover-Montrose support staff members were recently honored as standout contributors to the school district’s mission.

Bethany Bienias (special education support professional at Hanover Elementary), Ryan Lindenfelser (district technology coordinator), Katie Lohse (nutrition services manager at Montrose Elementary School of Innovation) and Dean Milner (educational support professional at Buffalo Community Middle School) each received Educational Support Staff Awards during a ceremony at Resource Training & Solutions in St. Cloud on Wednesday, Nov. 15.

More information about each is included below.

Bethany Bienias
Bienias said that a relative’s positive experience with the district’s special education program motivated her to seek a position that would allow her to help others in a similar way. She found an opportunity as an ESP at Parkside Elementary, and after one year there shifted to Hanover Elementary, where she has worked for the past five years.

In a nomination letter, multiple Hanover teachers noted Bienias’ skill in re-teaching core concepts to students needing additional support, and turning challenging behavior into teachable moments. Her composed demeanor is also a steadying influence for students and staff alike.

“She is calm and extraordinarily patient with students while at the same time maintaining high expectations for their performance,” the nomination said, adding that her willingness to learn and grow makes her a sought-after mentor for other ESPs at the school.

Most importantly, the nomination noted Bienias’ active advocacy on behalf of the students she serves, saying that her “most impressive and valuable attribute as an educational support professional is her core belief in the students she is working with.”

For her part, Bienias said that playing a role in the growth of her students is the most rewarding aspect of her work.

“The best part of my job is getting to work with kids and seeing them progress,” she said. “Their smiles each day are just awesome! Even though progress can be slow at times, those happy faces make every step worth it.”

As for the award, Bienias said the recognition means a great deal.

“It’s incredibly validating to be acknowledged and appreciated by my colleagues,” she said. “Knowing that my efforts contribute positively to their work and make their lives and the students’ lives a bit easier is very fulfilling.”

The nomination for Bienias closed with a ringing endorsement.

“We recognize and honor Bethany’s exemplary character,” the Hanover teachers wrote. “There is not a student nor teacher in our building who does not hold her in the highest regard.”

Ryan Lindenfelser
Without reliable technology and timely troubleshooting, classroom activities can quickly grind to a halt. This means that the behind-the-scenes work done by the district’s technology personnel is essential to student learning.

“Ryan is a very hard worker and will go the extra mile to see jobs and projects through,” said Discovery Elementary Principal and district Technology Director Mat Nelson. “He is very collaborative and professional in his interactions, and it is just clear to see that he cares about his colleagues. He cares about his work, our department, and providing high-quality service to the users, and especially the students.”

Lindenfelser has worked in the tech field for nearly 30 years, including 20 years in education and eight years with BHM. He started right out of high school, running networks for a cabinet shop and grocery store, and operating his own business repairing computers and network systems. Nelson said that Lindenfelser’s diverse background and experiences make him “very skilled and truly a ‘Jack of all Trades.’”

“I have always liked technology, and working in a school environment you have to stay current with trends,” said Lindenfelser, who added that the variety of issues keeps him engaged. “The thing I enjoy the most about my job is knowing every day that I will have a new challenge to keep me on my toes, and that what I do is helping someone else with what they need to do.”

That opportunity to make a difference on behalf of others is one that Lindenfelser makes the most of, and his caring approach is appreciated by those around him.

“Simply put, Ryan Lindenfelser exemplifies what a technology coordinator should be,” said Nelson.

Katie Lohse
With a consistently positive approach and “can do” attitude, Katie Lohse has deftly managed the large increase in students enjoying free school meals this year. 

“Katie is a shining example of a team player who is willing to do whatever it takes to ensure that our students have a positive meal experience,” said MESI Principal Tony Steffes. He later added that “the kitchen itself is always spotless and cared for, and she takes great pride in her work.”

As part of ensuring a “warm and welcoming” atmosphere, Lohse makes a point to address all 360 students by name, and is always “patient, kind, supportive and selfless,” according to Steffes.

Lohse has been a part of the BHM nutrition services department for 26 years, and is highly regarded by her colleagues in Montrose.
“She is well-liked and adored by everyone in our school,” said Steffes.

That feeling, according to Lohse, is mutual.

“I so enjoy working with the kids, and have made lifelong friendships with co-workers,” she said. “I was truly honored to be chosen for the award.”

Dean Milner
After a 31-year law enforcement career, including 27 years as a Minneapolis police officer, Milner is now in his second year with BHM Schools.

“Being a career street cop helped me stay connected with the community and the people I served,” said Milner. “Compassion is huge for me. That transitions nicely into the education field.”

Milner said that after retiring from police work he missed the rewarding feeling that came with helping others, and the daily sense of purpose that came from a difference-making job. He began to seek information about how to volunteer at the high school, but after a meeting with BCMS Assistant Principal Katie Gohl, took his current position.

“I knew it was the right fit,” he said.

In a nomination letter, school counselor Kaitlin Kolbinger said Milner has had an incredible impact on the school and its students.

“His work ethic and dedication to his job is incredibly evident, his attention to detail unparalleled, and above all, the care he shows students and staff is near unmatchable,” Kolbiner wrote. 

She added that Milner has a talent for both giving students positive encouragement, and for perceiving when students are struggling and providing assistance before their struggles become more pronounced. In one case, she said that Milner took some math lessons himself so that he could help a struggling student comprehend an assignment.

“Frequently, he finds students who need a positive role model and works with them to develop a close bond,” Kolbiner said. “He does this by asking how they are and truly listening to them. For some of these students, he is the first man to have discussions with them about feelings and life skills, like integrity and compassion. He’s not afraid to have difficult conversations with them about things like self-advocacy and responsibility.”

Milner said that his favorite part of the job is feeling like he is making a difference in the lives of others. He added that the ESSA honor was a complete surprise.

“There are so many amazing professionals that surround me at BCMS,” he said. “They have always supported me and made me feel welcome from day one. They make me feel like a part of the team. This honor just lends credence to that belief.”