April 2026 Employee-of-the-Month, P.I.E.S. Award Recipient

The Pocatello/Chubbuck School District 25’s Employee-of-the-Month P.I.E.S. award recognizes employees who Positively Influence Educational Success. The award is for employees who go above and beyond in that effort.

This month, we recognize Kym Matkin as our PIES Award Recipient. Ms. Matkin serves as the heart of the PASS Room at Irving Middle School – supporting learners in grades 6 through 8 through detention, credit recovery, in-school suspension, and academic support. As her nominator, Assistant Principal Ellen Laggis, shared that what truly sets Kym apart is the way she connects with learners, especially those who need it most.

Students often come to the PASS Room on difficult days, and Kym meets each one with calm, respect, and genuine care. She listens first, helps learners reset, and guides them to reflect and make better choices without shame or judgement. Because of this, students feel safe – and when students feel safe, they are more willing to grow.

Kym builds strong, meaningful relationships by noticing what others might miss. She recognizes when learners are struggling – academically, emotionally, or personally – and follows up with intention. She celebrates small successes, checks in regularly, and ensures students know they matter. For many of Irving’s most at risk learners, she is a key reason they remain engaged in school.

Her kindness is evident in both big and small ways. Whether quietly making sure a student has something to eat or offering support while preserving their dignity, Kym creates an environment where learners feel welcomed, valued, and capable of starting fresh.

At the same time, she holds students accountable – supporting them in completing work, recovering credits, and learning from mistakes, while reinforcing that one decision does not define them. Her positive solution-focused approach models patience, respect, and encouragement every day.

Ms. Laggis shared that Kym does far more than manage a space – she changes the way students see themselves. Through her compassion, consistency, and belief in learners, Kym Matkin has made a lasting impact on the Irving school community.

Ms. Matkin was recognized at the Board of Trustees meeting on Tuesday, April, 21, 2026 and received a $50 gift card from the educational partner for this award, Lookout Credit Union. 

P.I.E.S. Nomination Form