Celebrating FHSD’s October Seeds of Inspiration
Seeds of Inspiration is FHSD’s staff recognition program, celebrating staff members across the district who make a difference in the lives of students, colleagues and the community. Three staff members are honored each month for one of the three Seeds of Inspiration categories: Culture Builder, Innovator and Student Champion.
The Culture Builder helps make FHSD a better place with their positive attitude, strong relationships and commitment to creating a welcoming and supportive environment.
The Innovator thinks creatively, challenges the status quo and finds new ways to make a positive impact on students, colleagues or the school community.
The Student Champion consistently goes above and beyond to support students and help them feel valued, understood and empowered to succeed.
Learn more about this district-wide staff recognition program on the Seeds of Inspiration webpage.
Congratulations to the October 2026 Seeds of Inspiration Honorees!
- Culture Builder: Paula Highfield
- Innovator: Guy Frye
- Student Champion: Peter Francus
Paula Highfield - Culture Builder
As Head Cook at Anderson High School, Paula Highfield goes beyond her job description to help create a welcoming environment for both students and staff. One most recent example is her effort to make National School Lunch Week special. During the second week of October, Paula took the theme “Cafeteria Circus” to a new level by handmaking cotton candy and popcorn decorations, dressing up with fun hats, decorating the kitchen and promoting the themed meals. “She brings the best to school food service, and the department values her dedication greatly,” wrote her nominator. “Every employee who works at FHSD wants to be in AHS's kitchen–it's that amazing!” Going the extra mile and creating a positive environment is what makes the Seeds of Inspiration: Culture Builder a special part of the FHSD team!
Guy Frye - Innovator
Mercer Elementary’s Innovation Specialist Guy Frye challenges his students and colleagues to think creatively and outside of the box. His strong relationships empower others to think big and have the confidence to try new things. “Through humor, authentic relationships, and engaging professional learning, [Mr. Frye] inspires colleagues to try new approaches and builds a culture where curiosity and innovation thrive,” wrote his nominator. “He turns big ideas into practical strategies that help teachers personalize learning and create meaningful student experiences.” Mr. Frye’s efforts cultivate an innovative atmosphere at Mercer, encapsulating the characteristics of our Seeds of Inspiration: Innovator.
Peter Francus - Student Champion
Mr. Francus is the Innovation Specialist at Maddux Elementary who fosters positive relationships with students and empowers them to learn and grow with confidence. His encouragement and enthusiasm is notable not just among students, but their parents and families as well. “iLab ended up being the highlight of my son's week, every week,” shared his nominator. “Mr. Francus reached out with a [birthday] video message to let [my sons] know he's still rooting for them. That is exactly the kind of encouragement and care he has always offered them since day 1 in FHSD, and it means the world to them and me that it goes beyond the classroom.” Mr. Francus’ commitment to students and their growth is what the Seeds of Inspiration: Student Champion is all about.
