Rewerts named Person of the Year

W.F. Morrison Elementary principal Diane Rewerts was the overwhelming selection as The Western News’ Lincoln County Person of the Year for 2015.

“Diane Rewerts taught in Libby for over 30 years and instead of retiring she has moved into the principal position at W.F. Morrison Elementary School in Troy,” wrote Troy schools superintendent  Jacob Francom in his nomination of Rewerts. “She has made such a huge impact in just the past few years in Troy. Her impact in Libby has been extraordinary, influencing and helping so many students. She has had a major impact on the past few generations of people from Lincoln County and has and will continue to be a major influence in Lincoln County.”

More than 40 Lincoln County residents wrote nominations in support of Rewerts, praising her dedication to her students, her compassion and her overall commitment to the betterment of the communities of Lincoln County.

“Diane was my colleague for many years at Libby Middle School and her leadership, graciousness and positive teamwork was a powerful force,” wrote Libby Elementary School counselor Kim Lee. “I felt personally supported by her in my work and always enjoyed visiting her classroom. Her students were consistently challenged academically and molded into good citizens of our school and community...After many years of teaching Diane moved on to become school principal in Troy. She has continued to offer leadership and innovation to us even though she is in a different community...Diane has and continues to offer leadership and inspires others to be their best selves. As an added bonus she is one of the nicest and most gracious people I know.”

“The positive way she has influenced the staff and especially the children should be more than enough to secure the nomination,” wrote Troy district maintenance and transportation director Keith Haggerty. “Diane’s presence and support at so many events in Libby and Troy also shows her commitment to the communities. Diane is a huge asset to the people of Troy, Libby and all throughout the county.”

Other educators also offered their support of Rewerts and appreciation for her work in the schools.

“Diane is an outstanding principal and community member,” wrote Hana Miller. “Ever since Diane has become principal at W.F. Morrison Elementary she has been dedicated and put much effort into her job. As a result, the morale around the school has gone up as well as student achievement.”

“Diane gives 120 percent to everything she touches and the kids of Troy have been the recipients for several years,” wrote Kathy Cotten. “What she has done for our school has been remarkable. I work for Diane, and am proud to say that. For several years the elementary school in Troy was struggling and Diane has pulled us together as a cohesive group.”

Troy’s special education director, Christina Schertel, commended Rewerts for her tireless work to update and unify the school.

“Having worked at the elementary school for several years, she has done wonders to update our curriculum, our facilities and help bond our staff,” she wrote. “She has worked tirelessly to provide our school system with technology and professional development that we so badly needed. She is the best principal I have ever had the honor of working for.”

Others highlighted Rewerts’ service to the community outside the school systems.

“Over the years I have come to know Diane and her family on both a personal and professional basis and continue to see the level of concern she has for the well-being of those around here, especially those least able to advocate for themselves,” wrote Mark Kreuz.

“I would like to nominate Diane Rewerts as Lincoln County Person of the Year,” wrote Leslie Crooks. “She has worked in Libby and Troy school districts for over 30 years. Diane has also been involved in countless community events, such as Nordicfest, Treasure Tones, Logger Days and for more than 10 years brought the community junior plays that involved more than 50 fourth through eighth graders. She has been on numerous boards throughout the years and she is still willing to join and help.”

Troy teacher Justin Young said Rewerts’ greatest gift is her ability to inspire and encourage the children of Troy.

“Perhaps her finest work, though, is that which goes unseen,” he wrote. “It’s the words of encouragement she gives to a student passing by in the hallway, or the willingness to eat lunch with a student who is having a bad day. Whether it’s teaching the students morals, or giving them the education to succeed, Diane’s motivation is always fueled by love. She constantly pushes her students to do their best, and provides them with the emotional and physical tools to succeed. Though there are many worthy candidates in our fine county, I feel we could find no better representation than Diane Rewerts for what makes this county great. It’s great people.”