NEWS RELEASE: Tammy Duffin, Jefferson Elementary 1st grade teacher, recognized with SPAPSD Mandana Bliss Award
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News Release
Stevens Point Area Public School District
1900 Polk Street
Stevens Point, WI 54481
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
CONTACT: Sarah O’Donnell, director of communications
715/343-6629 | sodonnel@pointschools.net
May 12, 2026
Tammy Duffin, Jefferson Elementary 1st grade teacher, recognized with SPAPSD Mandana Bliss Award
Stevens Point, Wis.— The Stevens Point Area Public School District is proud to recognize Tammy Duffin as this month’s recipient of the Mandana Bliss Award.
Mrs. Duffin was nominated by fourth grade student Sawyer, who described her as a caring and loving teacher who creates a calm classroom environment where students can grow.
Sawyer shared that Mrs. Duffin welcomed students with kindness each morning and helped build important early literacy skills, including learning to read and write. Mrs. Duffin also sparked Sawyer’s love for the Piggie and Gerald books and encouraged student creativity through writing, reading aloud and art projects.
Sawyer also remembered helping run the classroom store with friends, an experience that continues to make an impact. Sawyer now uses those same skills in fourth grade while helping with student council and the school store.
“Her love for teaching and her students shows every day through her positive attitude and creativity in the classroom,” Sawyer shared.
The Mandana Bliss Award recognizes individuals who make a meaningful difference for students through care, dedication and service. Mrs. Duffin’s positive attitude, creativity and commitment to creating a calm and loving learning environment reflect the spirit of this recognition.
Congratulations to Tammy Duffin on this well-deserved recognition.
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CUTLINE: Tammy Duffin, second from left, is recognized with the Mandana Bliss Award during the May 2026 Stevens Point Area Public School District Board of Education meeting. Duffin was nominated by Sawyer for creating a caring, calm and creative classroom environment where students feel supported and inspired to learn. (Photo/Stevens Point Area Public School District)