Sandra Gulley was nominated by her colleague, George Woolard.
Ms. Gulley is wonderful, understanding, and thoughtful. She has been working in Denton ISD for 38 years. She is great to work with every day, and she's a favorite of all students and staff at Ryan High School. Ms. Gulley is always helpful to all and very respectful to staff members. They all respect her, in return.
"She makes me feel good about my job," said Woolard. "She is a friend and is always there for me to talk to. I've worked for Sandra for 11 years now, and I've enjoyed it very much."
Ms. Gulley is so loved by all staff - her kindness and compassion for others is remarkable! We are lucky to have her!
Mama Gully is the kindest and most beautiful person at our school. Leading with love and always what is best for the students and staff. Congratulations!!
People who light up a room just by entering it are rare, and Ms. Gulley is one of those individuals who is capable of illuminating and inspiring every single individual she encounters. Her benevolence, dedication, commitment to excellence, and pride in her profession are to be admired by all and her genuine and sincere love for others is reflected by her long-term custodial staff and the halls of Ryan High School.
I have had the opportunity to work with Ms. Gulley for 27 years now. From the first day I met her she welcomed me and still does everytime I see her. Ms. Gulley has been my support in many instances across my career. I truly value her and feel lucky that I work with someone like her. I also feel blessed for having the opportunity to work alongside her. I feel that I don't tell her enough how much her friendhship means to me and how I feel that that a bigger being put her in my path to mentor me when I needed it. I feel that Ms. Gulley is a role model to me.
To know her is to know genuine care, humility, and strength. She has spent nearly four decades pouring her heart into Denton ISD, leaving a legacy built on kindness, consistency, and deep respect for every person who walks through our doors. She isn’t just someone we work with—she is someone we lean on. For me, she has been a second mom, a mentor, and a steady source of encouragement. She listens without judgment, supports without hesitation, and celebrates others with a full heart. Her presence makes hard days easier and good days even brighter. Students adore her, staff admire her, and all of us are better for having her in our lives. Her impact extends well beyond her professional duties. It’s in the way she makes people feel seen, valued, and capable. It’s in the quiet guidance she offers and the countless ways she lifts others up. Congratulations—you are a true treasure to our campus and a lifechanger to so many of us, including me. We love you!
I have known Mrs. Gulley for many years. She is hardworking, dedicated and an all-around great person. She is positive and caring for all those around her.
Mrs. Gulley has been here for decades, and is a pillar within the School. Even though this is the oldest active High School Facility, it is still one of the cleanest and best maintained, a replica for the Home of Champions. She is here for the Raiders (Ryan Students), leading her team to make this a place to be proud of. Restrooms are always clean and well maintained, hallways constantly being maintained, trash removed.
She also has the well being of students in mind. A few years ago, I had a special-needs student that wanted to work as a school custodian. She talked to him, and told him what she expected from her staff--basics like punctuality, quality work, teamwork, and following directions. She encouraged him to listen to teachers, work on priorities, and take pride in what he does. When he was learning the life skill of having a "business lunch" with colleagues, Mrs. Gulley gave her lunch hour to come and have lunch with him, encouraging him in the principles of learning, following directions, and doing his best. This student graduated the next year.
Just today, the Renaissance Coordinator announced that Mrs. Gulley was elected by the entire staff at Ryan High School as Staffer of the Month for October. She will be a contender for the School and possibly District Staffer of the Year in May.
Mrs. Gulley is definitely a Champion at Ryan High School.
Sandra has been a positive figure at Ryan High School. Not only does she oversee the daily cleaning and care for the building but she has been very instrumental in building a strong rapport with teacher, staff and students.