Innovation, heart and leadership were recognized in three Holyoke School District employees in this year’s Emerald Awards ceremony at the Peerless Theatre on Thursday evening, April 22. Pictured from left are elementary technology teacher/librarian and district assessment coordinator Kari Vasa, elementary custodian Juana Ruiz and JR/SR high counselor Ashley Clayton. Vasa was honored as Innovator of the Year for taking the risks necessary to improve the education craft. Ruiz was presented the Heart Award for demonstrating the heart of a dedicated educator. As Leader Among Us, Clayton was honored for sharing her talents and making the teaching profession stronger. The program featured “Rise Up” sung by Holyoke High School senior Kylie Purkeypile and videos created by the Holyoke High School TV productions class. — The Holyoke Enterprise | Johnson Publications