Aurora Public Schools is proud to present the Powering Potential Award! Superintendent Michael Giles, Jr. is honoring the extraordinary teachers, paraeducators and support staff members who go above and beyond to help every student and colleague thrive. These honorees exemplify the core values of our Destination APS strategic plan. Each recipient embodies what it means to power potential, reminding us that our greatest strength as a district lies in the people who make learning possible every day.
We’re proud to spotlight our inaugural Powering Potential awardees!
Araceli Mena | Math Teacher, Aurora Central High School
Araceli Mena exemplifies the APS core value of Engagement and Academic Supports through her masterful teaching and innovative classroom design. In her Statistics and Financial Algebra classes, Araceli fosters a learning environment where 100% of students are engaged, accountable and actively collaborating. Her structured group roles and inquiry-based approach empower students to push one another’s thinking and take ownership of mastering complex, real-world concepts. Rather than providing answers, she guides students to reason, discuss and arrive at a shared understanding together. The result is a classroom culture rooted in curiosity, collaboration and confidence–one where every student’s voice matters and learning truly comes alive.
Paula Shank | Bus Driver
Since joining Aurora Public Schools in 2017, Paula Shank has been a cornerstone of our Transportation Department and a shining example of dedication and professionalism. Each morning, she greets students with warmth and positivity, creating a safe and welcoming environment that families and schools have come to trust. Paula maintains one of the cleanest buses in our fleet and models excellence through her attention to detail and strong collaboration with her destination coach. Beyond her daily responsibilities, she mentors new drivers and destination coaches, generously sharing her expertise through ride-alongs and guidance. Her integrity, reliability and genuine care for students and colleagues make her an outstanding representative of APS and a deserving recipient of the Powering Potential Award.
Gracie Binder | 5th Grade Teacher, Kenton Elementary
Gracie Binder embodies the APS core value of Engagement and Academic Supports through her remarkable impact on student learning and school culture. Last year, her students achieved an impressive 85.5 median growth percentile in math, outgrowing nearly 86% of fifth grade students across Colorado. Gracie’s classroom is a place of rigor, encouragement and belonging, where every student gains both academic confidence and a sense of pride in their progress. Beyond her classroom, she leads with heart. Whether mentoring colleagues or organizing events like Kenton’s upcoming Run Club gathering at City Park, Gracie is helping to build a positive and connected school community. Her care, humor and commitment to student growth make her a model of what it means to power potential every day.
Keep the love going, APS staff! Nominate a barrier breaker for the next Powering Potential Award!