Highland names 2026 Highland Pride Award recipients

The Highland Local School District announced Kristine Nerlich and Koula Makris as recipients of the 2026 Highland Pride Awards. They will be recognized at the Highland Board of Education meeting at 6 p.m. May 18 in the Highland High School Media Center, followed by a reception.

Nerlich and Makris were selected by an ad hoc committee of Highland Local School District staff and community members who reviewed community-submitted nominations and identified individuals whose work exemplifies Highland Pride.

“Kristine Nerlich and Koula Makris have made incredible contributions of their time in service to and support of our Highland students and families, and they are very deserving recipients of the Highland Pride Awards,” Superintendent Catherine Aukerman said. “Both exemplify Highland excellence in action through their unwavering commitment to the care of our students — Kristine through providing STEM-based learning opportunities, and Koula through her donation of time and resources to provide students and staff with any support they may need.”

Kristine Nerlich

Nerlich has been a science teacher at Highland High School for 19 years. For the past three years, she has volunteered her time organizing, planning and chaperoning a science-based student trip to Costa Rica.

In addition to planning the trip, she prepares participants academically and culturally by introducing them to Costa Rican traditions. Nearly 100 Highland students and staff members have experienced the biodiversity and culture of Costa Rica through the program. Students conduct scientific fieldwork, cook alongside Costa Rican chefs, explore ecosystems and observe wildlife while participating in cultural exchanges and international travel opportunities.

Nerlich also serves as adviser for the Environmental Club and HOSA, expanding STEM learning opportunities for students.

Her nominator wrote, “Because of her generosity, leadership, and passion, the Highland community offers richer opportunities, broader perspectives, and transformative experiences for students.”

Koula Makris

Since moving to the district in 2014, Makris has volunteered extensively in support of Highland students. She began volunteering at Hinckley Elementary and now donates her time at Highland High School.

At Hinckley, she organized staff appreciation lunches and breakfasts, supported bus drivers, volunteered in classrooms and assisted wherever needed. At the high school, she serves as PTO president, leads the after-prom parent committee, plans conference dinners and coordinates teacher appreciation activities. She also volunteers with the robotics program and art department and leads fundraising efforts to support student needs.

Additionally, the Makris family contributes financially to district organizations and activities.

Her nominator wrote, “Mrs. Makris deserves the Highland Pride Award for the incredible time and resources she dedicates to school activities and teacher support. From organizing food for conference nights to recognizing teachers during teacher appreciation week, Mrs. Makris makes the teachers of Highland High School feel honored.”

The Highland Local School District congratulated both recipients and thanked them for their continued dedication and service to students, staff and families.