Hilltop Primary School paraprofessional Michelle Martin (center with plaque) is the February winner of the Westonka Way Award

February 19, 2025 — Hilltop Primary School paraprofessional Michelle Martin has been named the February 2025 recipient of the Westonka Way Award. The monthly award celebrates non-licensed Westonka Public Schools staff members who go above and beyond for families, students and other staff—because that's the Westonka Way!

Martin has served as a kindergarten/special education paraprofessional at Hilltop since 2016. Her nominator called her “a wonderful asset to our kindergarten team.”

“Michelle is a quiet behind-the-scenes support who also has a kind and gentle manner with our kids,” the nominator wrote. “She is always willing to lend a hand to make our jobs easier in our busy and energetic classrooms.” 

“Michelle raised her own adult children in Westonka, and she still continues to help support and care for many of our kids today,” the nominator added.

On Wednesday afternoon, Superintendent Kevin Borg was joined by Hilltop Principal Mike Moch and Special Services Director Dr. Emily Rustman to present Martin with a special plaque and two gift certificates for the Al & Alma’s Signature Sunday Brunch Cruise on Lake Minnetonka.

The Westonka Way Award will be presented monthly throughout the school year. To nominate a non-licensed employee for the award, please use the Google Form.