“One would be hard pressed to find a Shasta classroom, family, teacher, student, staff member or program that Miss Ricci has not supported or enriched. Whether we are promoting and organizing a Harvest Festival, a talent show, an assembly or 8th Grade Promotion, Miss Ricci is there to spearhead and manage the project, all while running a very efficient, top-notch office where very little goes unnoticed or unaddressed. Every day she is on campus, Ricci contributes to an elevated school culture where students can feel their school is a reflection of them, celebrates their individuality, and exists to support their unique needs.”— Ms. Audrey Parker, Principal of Shasta Elementary School
“Rosa is always a team player! She is willing to help out wherever she is needed, and she works well with both our students and staff alike. She builds strong relationships with the students in her classroom and is the epitome of a Woodward Mustang. We are so grateful she is part of our Woodward family." —Heather Thomson, Principal of Walter Woodward Elementary School
“As a School Site Assistant, Lilia is always upbeat and positive. She comes to campus every morning wishing a ‘Good Morning’ to everyone, and a ‘Goodnight’ when she leaves, and goes above and beyond her job duties every day – She constantly brings checks in when it looks like one of us is having a bad day, and is always willing to help, even when she is not on the clock. Additionally, Lilia volunteers at school drives and fundraisers and has developed great relationships with the students, staff, and families here in our Great Valley community.” -Ms. Martinez DeArredondo’s nominating team
“We have never met a more cheerful and hardworking person. Shelly always comes to work with a smile on her face no matter what the circumstances might be, and her ability to spread cheer to both her coworkers and the students she serves – more than eight hundred of them – has been a blessing for us all. Shelly knows that proper nutrition is foundational for optimal learning to occur, and because of this, she strives to ensure that students make good nutritional choices in the food items they select. She truly wants students to be able to do their best.”—Ms. Metcalfe’s nominating team
“Carlos not only goes above and beyond in his work responsibilities, but also in serving his community. Everyone on campus knows and loves ‘Mr. Carlos’ – He has volunteered as a baseball coach for Manteca youth sports, he has escorted senior students for Grad Night to basketball games, and when the school is hosting any event, such as ‘Trunk or Treat,’ ‘Literacy Night,’ and ‘Science Night,’, he is there to help. Carlos proves that classified employees make a tremendous impact on school campuses, as he is a shining example of everything that is good for a school system, and we are blessed and grateful to have him.” —Mr. Talavera’s nominating team
“Mrs. Young is a key component and extremely valuable part of Sierra High School’s climate and culture. She is one of two English Department Chairpersons, is a PLC lead, advises the Book Club, has spearheaded grant writing to secure a ‘Book Love’ Grant and mini library in her classroom, and has advised classes within ASB throughout the years. She has established herself as part of the backbone of our teaching staff, the consummate professional that meets kids where they are and takes them to places they didn’t know they could get to.” — Ms. Young’s nominating team
“No student leaves Mrs. Morris's classroom feeling unseen or unloved. She makes meaningful connections with each of her students that will undeniably influence them as they go through life. She has somehow managed to embody a mother figure, an older sister, a teacher, and a friend, and she does so with ease. She is her students' greatest advocate, and she goes far beyond her basic job duties in order to make sure they are being supported both at school and at home.”— Ms. Morris’s nominating team
“Laurie is committed to her students, their families, and to the entire French Camp staff. She treats us like family and dedicates an immense amount of time and energy into making French Camp an amazing place to learn and work – from organizing community events such as our annual Harvest Festival, to coordinating Sunshine events for staff to spend time before and after school working with migrant students and those in need. It is truly inspiring to see her passion and expectations for herself, her team, and her students.” — Ms. Vazquez’s nominating team
“Miss Telles is the type of teacher who is always looking for new opportunities to grow. This year, she additionally took on the role of being our girls’ basketball coach. She intentionally chose students who she knew would benefit from participating on a team rather than the students who performed the best on the court. Her team included some students who had never played basketball before – but who had tried out for the team so they could spend more time with Miss Telles, knowing she would provide an environment where they would feel safe and supported after school.” — Ms. Lori Guzman-Alvarez, Principal of Neil Hafley Elementary School
“I have known Ms. Laura Steiner for the past 17 years as she has served students across our district. Throughout the time I have known her, Laura has continued to be a learner, often taking part in professional development opportunities including special coursework and trainings, along with frequent peer collaboration. She is an all-around natural educator who consistently demonstrates her love for teaching, our students, our school community, and for continuing education!” — Mr. David Silveira, Principal of Brock Elliott Elementary School