Two Paths, One Purpose, and a Reason to Celebrate Sasa Djergovic and Joni Hester

In GMSD, it often starts with something small. A handwritten note to cheer up a classmate. A hallway birthday celebration for a second grader. Both were simple ideas that turned into something much bigger.

At last week’s Germantown Board of Education meeting, service took center stage as the district nominated two individuals for statewide recognition through the Tennessee School Boards Association. Rising senior Sasa Djergovic was selected as GMSD’s nominee for the Student Achievement Award, and Joni Hester was nominated for the Volunteer Award.

The TSBA works alongside school districts across Tennessee to support public education and recognize excellence. Each year, districts put forward individuals who reflect the very best of their schools. In GMSD, that often means looking both inside the classroom and far beyond it.

Sasa Djergovic brings a strong academic record to her work, including membership in the 30+ ACT Club and participation in competitive, real-world business programs and internships.

At Houston High School, she leads as DECA president, helping grow membership and drive success in business and marketing competitions. She also helped launch the Ping Pong Club, which quickly expanded to more than 120 members, creating a new space for students to connect.

Her leadership extends beyond the school day. As the founder of Hugs from Houston, Djergovic built a network of more than 150 student volunteers who deliver handwritten and digital messages of encouragement to hospitals, teachers, and retirement communities. The initiative has grown into a multi-state effort, focused on simple, meaningful outreach.

She also serves as a member of the GMSD Ambassador team, representing the district and helping share its story. Across academics, leadership, and service, Djergovic’s work reflects a consistent focus on initiative, organization, and follow-through.

If you have spent time at Forest Hill Elementary, you have likely seen Joni Hester in action. A birthday cart rolling down the hallway. Costumes that are fully committed. Events and fundraisers that bring energy into the building and draw people together.

Hester has built a reputation as a consistent and effective volunteer leader. Her involvement began at Farmington, where she served on the ESE Support Committee, and continued at Forest Hill, where she took on key PTO leadership roles, including Vice President of Volunteers and PTO President. She now continues that service at Houston Middle, supporting students and staff through ongoing involvement with Exceptional Student Education efforts.

Across each role, her focus has remained the same. Strengthening the connection between schools and families, supporting teachers, and creating opportunities for students to feel included and supported.

That approach extended into her work with the Germantown Education Foundation. During a period of transition, Hester stepped into leadership, serving as both Board President and Interim Executive Director. She helped clarify expectations for board engagement, streamlined operations, and aligned fundraising efforts to better support schools. The result has been increased participation and funding, with resources more directly impacting classrooms and student learning.

During last week’s board meeting, members of the GMSD Board of Education shared their thoughts on both nominees and what they represent.

Vice Chairman Angela Griffith reflected on the moment, saying, “I’m thankful for our students who are engaged, not only in their own growth, but who really serve the community. That seems to be a consistent theme with our student body.” She also spoke to Hester’s impact, noting her support for not just individual schools, but the district and community as a whole.

Board member Ryan Strain echoed that perspective. “Sasa really is an impressive student,” he said. “Like so many of our students, she does so many things, and it’s not just to pad a resume. They want to do what’s good for everyone in our school community.” He added that Hester is “one of those special people who always has the energy to get the job done… she brings people together and makes things happen,” calling both nominations well deserved.

Board Chairman Brian Curry pointed to the district’s strong track record at the state level. “We have an excellent track record of our students being recognized in Nashville [in reference to the regional and state level competition through TSBA]. Our students are just absolutely impressive,” he said. Reflecting on Hester, he added, “Just her energy and her ability to get things done. I cannot say enough positive things about her. The recognition for both is very well deserved.”

In many ways, their stories are different, but the thread is the same. Both see a need, step in, and bring others with them. GMSD is proud to recognize them.