2025 Alaska Afterschool Superheroes
Alaska's afterschool and summer learning educators are our heroes without the capes! These superheroes go the distance to support, nurture, and grow the young people of their communities. These educators build and support relationships through kindness and passion, inspire learning, and uplift the young people and the community in which they serve.
The Alaska Afterschool Network is thrilled to recognize five outstanding afterschool professionals who act as everyday superheroes in our youths’ lives during Afterschool Professionals Appreciation Week, April 21-25, 2025. These five Afterschool Superheroes inspired children and youth to reach for greatness. Join us in celebrating their incredible commitment and passion for our youth!
Renee Veldman
Project GRAD Academic Coach at Voznesenka School/Kachemak Selo School, Project GRAD Kenai Peninsula
Renee Veldman is a shining example of dedication and passion in afterschool programing. As a Project GRAD Kenai Peninsula Academic Coach, she travels 45 minutes each way - braving Alaskan winters – to bring engaging learning opportunities to Kachemak Selo and Voznesenka. Renee’s lessons are hands-on and innovative, from engineering projects to computer programming. She even collaborated with the local fire department on a fire response study for her students! Renee’s commitment to academic coaching has played a key role in boosting students’ math and reading scores.
Renee’s impact also goes beyond academics. She is an artist and deeply understands the power of creative expression for young people. This last school year, Renee engaged students in a collaborative plasticine clay art piece to be displayed at a Family Night Art Show. Renne encouraged her students with her signature phrase, “When making art, we want to be PROUD, not perfect!” And proud they were! The piece now hangs permanently in the school hallway as a testament to the student’s creativity and teamwork.
One of Renee’s coworkers says, “Renee is consistently meeting youth and their families where they are at, finding ways that she can support them, so that they can continue to participate in afterschool and do so successfully. Whether that is giving students who are without transportation rides, special snacks for students in need, listening and quality time to students who need it and more.” Renee is a true afterschool superhero - blending academics, creativity, and compassion to make a lasting impact on the students and families she serves.
Nominated by: Ksenia Kuzmin, Shellie Worsfold, Michael Wojciak, Joolee Aurand, Karina Marette, Project GRAD Kenai Peninsula
Kaili Watkins
Lead Kinder Skog Mentor at Petersburg Medical Center, Kinder Skog Program, and Dance Instructor at Mitkof Dance Troupe
As a youth program mentor with Petersburg Medical Center Kinder Skog & ORCA Camps, Kaili creates an uplifting and inclusive environment where every child feels valued and supported. Whether through dance, art, or conversation, Kaili fosters trust and confidence in her community.
Kaili’s impact is especially evident in Strings & Things, an afterschool art program she leads every Friday. Once a month, she takes students to a Long-Term Care facility, where they create art and build friendships with elderly residents. This experience has left a lasting mark, with many children continuing to visit their elderly friends outside of the program. One coworker shares, “Kaili’s ability to build meaningful, lasting relationships between youth and the elderly is nothing short of inspiring.”
During the COVID-19 pandemic, Kaili stepped up in an extraordinary way, earning a temporary teaching certificate to serve as a Kindergarten teacher and provide stability during a challenging time. She also brings her passion for social-emotional learning into the dance studio, where she teaches at MDT Studios. More than just a dance instructor, she instills resilience, teamwork, and confidence in her students. “Kaili does not shy away from facilitating difficult conversations, helping participants navigate challenges with empathy and understanding.”
Nominated by: Katherine Holmlund, Petersburg Medical Center
Karen Donovan
Rally Assistant Site Manager, Harborview Elementary School, Juneau School District
At Harborview Elementary RALLY, Karen goes above and beyond to create a nurturing and enriching environment for every child. Each afternoon, she greets students with a warm “Welcome to the best part of your day,” setting the tone for an afterschool experience where children feel valued and supported. Families trust Karen so deeply that one parent shares they have “followed her from one site to another so their child could continue building a relationship with her.”
Karen’s commitment extends far beyond the classroom. She is a fierce advocate for keeping RALLY accessible to all families who need it, dedicating personal time and energy to ensuring its success. She also believes in teaching essential life skills, incorporating swimming lessons into her summer program curriculum to promote water safety—an invaluable skill for children growing up in Juneau.
Karen encourages children to explore the world beyond their playground fences. She regularly leads field trips to local outdoor spaces, helping kids connect with their environment in meaningful ways. One parent recalls, “Karen took a group to the SeaWalk in Downtown Juneau, something even I haven’t had time to do. That evening, my son was so excited to tell me all about his adventure.”
Nominated by: Caroline Walker, Harborview Elementary School
Michelle Crow
Director of Denali Arts Council, Sheldon Community Arts Hangar, Talkeetna, AK
Michelle Crow is a force of creativity and perseverance in Talkeetna. As the director of the Denali Arts Council, she has dedicated herself to fostering artistic youth engagement, ensuring that every young person has a space to express themselves and grow. Through her partnership with Afterschool AmeriCorps Program, Michelle helped launch Youth Music Jam Night, a weekly program where students explore songwriting, learn from local musicians, and even participate in an Open Mic. She also secured funding for electric guitars, microphones, and other essential equipment—providing young artists with the tools to bring their creativity to life.
Michelle’s impact extends beyond the arts. She is known for her commitment to inclusivity, respect, and community unity—values she embodies in every role she takes on. Whether she’s mentoring a fellow artist, supporting youth programs, or performing live herself, Michelle fosters an environment where authentic self-expression is not just encouraged, but celebrated.
A colleague shares, “She is an empathetic maverick with an inspiring ability to solve problems no one else has.” Michelle’s influence is deeply felt in Talkeetna and beyond- uniting people together through music, mentorship, and sheer passion.
Nominated by: Willow Feeley, Sheldon community Arts Hangar
Vanessa West
Special Education Teacher & GAP Coordinator, AK Gateway Afterschool Program, Tok, AK
Vanessa West brings creativity, dedication, and an unwavering commitment to the students and families she serves at Tok School’s Gateway After-School Program . She doesn’t just oversee activities—she curates experiences that inspire and empower young learners. If a student expresses interest in a new art project or skill, Vanessa is the first to research, gather materials, and turn that curiosity into an exciting hands-on opportunity. Whether it's exploring painting techniques, practicing makeup artistry, or diving into creative STEM projects, Vanessa ensures that every activity is engaging, educational, and fun.
Vanessa plays a crucial role in supporting the overall well-being of her students. One of her coworkers shares, “Vanessa is the ultimate go-to person in afterschool care. She is always there to provide guidance, stability, and a sense of safety for every child.” Beyond the classroom, Vanessa is a steadfast advocate for families. She stays late to ensure smooth transitions, provides guidance to parents, and fosters a welcoming environment where families feel heard and supported.”
This year, Vanessa took the initiative to strengthen the academic component of the program by recruiting teachers to lead focused reading and math sessions. Thanks to her leadership, students have made noticeable academic progress.
Nominated by: Julie Shotwell, Gateway Afterschool Program