Boise School District Honors March & April 2026 Red Apple and Golden Apple Award Recipients
The Boise School District Board of Trustees is proud to recognize outstanding staff members whose dedication, leadership, and commitment to students exemplify the District’s mission of Educating Today for a Better Tomorrow. Each month during the school year, the Board presents the Red Apple Award to an exceptional certified staff member and the Golden Apple Award to an outstanding classified staff member who go above and beyond in service to students, schools, and the community.
We are pleased to celebrate the following recipients for March and April 2026.
March 2026 Golden Apple Award
Mike Smith, Head Custodian — Timberline High School 🏅🍎
Mike Smith, Head Custodian at Timberline High School, was recognized with the March 2026 Golden Apple Award for his exceptional service and leadership supporting students and staff.
Mike plays a vital role in ensuring Timberline’s learning environments are safe, welcoming, and ready for instruction each day. He works closely with staff to prepare classrooms, coordinate room changes efficiently, and identify facility needs before they become issues. His proactive communication with school administration and facilities teams helps keep the school running smoothly.
Equally important is Mike’s leadership. He mentors members of his custodial team and supports their professional growth—several have gone on to leadership roles across the district. His attention to detail, reliability, and positive attitude make him a valued member of the Timberline community.
Although Mike was unable to attend the March Board of Trustees meeting, he was recognized in person at Timberline High School by Area Director Dr. Teri Thaemert.
📄 Read Mike’s nomination:
https://drive.google.com/file/d/1lMFCI66JLHFtriF0hHMC656SB9VJ_9_0/view?usp=sharing
April 2026 Red Apple Award
Dr. Tatia Totorica, Mathematics Teacher — East Junior High School 🍎
Dr. Tatia Totorica, Mathematics Teacher at East Junior High School, received the April 2026 Red Apple Award in recognition of her outstanding commitment to student learning and academic success.
Through engaging instruction and strong relationships with students, Dr. Totorica helps make mathematics meaningful and accessible. Her work supports students in developing confidence, problem-solving skills, and a strong academic foundation that prepares them for future success in high school and beyond.
Her dedication to supporting students and collaborating with colleagues reflects the very best of Boise School District teaching.
📄 Read Dr. Totorica’s nomination:
https://drive.google.com/file/d/1NK-re91Id07Hp22zsVp8XqpvWFPhlW93/view?usp=sharing
April 2026 Golden Apple Award
Milan Klipa, Assistant Custodian — Hillside Junior High School 🏅🍎
Milan Klipa, Assistant Custodian at Hillside Junior High School, was honored with the April 2026 Golden Apple Award for his outstanding support of students, staff, and school operations.
Behind the scenes each day, Milan helps ensure that Hillside remains a clean, safe, and welcoming environment where students can focus on learning. His reliability, teamwork, and commitment to supporting school activities make him an essential part of the Hillside community.
📄 Read Milan’s nomination:
https://drive.google.com/file/d/182FarUm2ncAGQOWlbtvte9MocZy1GICC/view?usp=sharing
Celebrating Excellence Across Boise Schools
The Red Apple and Golden Apple Awards highlight the incredible contributions of both certified and classified staff across the Boise School District. From classrooms to custodial teams, these individuals help create learning environments where students thrive academically, socially, and emotionally.
Please join us in congratulating Mike Smith, Dr. Tatia Totorica, and Milan Klipa for their outstanding service to our students, schools, and community. 🎉🍎