2024 Employees of the Year

The distinguished finalists for the San Joaquin Office of Education's (SJCOE) Classified Employees of the Year, Counselor of the Year, and Teacher of the Year came together from across the county gathered to witness Employees of the Year receive their award for their distinction.

In this esteemed gathering, Maria Ravelo, a seventh-grade teacher at Mossdale and recipient of MUSD’s Junior High Educator of the Year award, was named as the SJCOE’s 2024 TEACHER OF THE YEAR! Maria Ravelo's dedication and excellence shone brightly, earning her this prestigious distinction among all the teacher finalists countywide.

Meanwhile, Mike Lehr, recognized as MUSD’s Classified Employee of the Year and serving as a skilled Facilities & Operations Energy Technician, accepted with pride the honor of being named SJCOE’s Classified Employee of the Year in the Skilled Trades category.

Educators of the Year

Maria Franco - Elementary Educator

Maria Franco has been an elementary educator at French Camp for 18 years and currently teaches fourth grade.

“Ms. Franco’s ability to motivate students and create innovative lessons has been an inspiration to her colleagues over the years. She genuinely looks out for her students' well-being, takes the time to address their hopes and fears, lifts them so that they believe in themselves, and can find the positives in any situation.”

– French Camp Staff

Maria Ravelo - Junior High Educator

Maria has been an educator at Manteca Unified for 28 years and currently teaches junior high math and science at Mossdale Elementary.

Ms. Ravelo is also the San Joaquin County Office of Education’s 2024 Teacher of the Year.

“Ms. Ravelo is part of the backbone of our teaching staff. Through her optimism, positive attitude, and the belief that every student can learn, Maria instills confidence in her students daily. It comes as no surprise that students in her class feel safe, respected, and supported. She is an exceptional educator and an even better person.”

– Mossdale Staff

Patricia Gonzales - High School Educator

Patricia Gonzales has been a high school educator at Weston Ranch for 18 years where she teaches social science.

“Everyone Ms. Gonzales connects with is influenced by her work ethic, compassion, professionalism, and humility. Her positive energy and expertise with curriculum and instruction brightens the lives of students, both in and beyond the classroom. She is an inspiration to students, and truly makes Weston Ranch High School better each day.”

– Weston Ranch High Staff

Shelley Kulm - Support Services Educator

Shelley Kulm has been a School Psychologist at Manteca Unified School District for 33 years.

“Throughout her career with MUSD, Ms. Kulm has always gone above and beyond for students. She works to improve their lives by helping increase academic performance, boost social skills, resolve behavioral issues, and support students’ emotional and mental health. Over the years, students have consistently reported that Ms. Kulm really listens to them and makes sure their needs are met.”

– Special Education Department
& August Knodt Elementary Staff

CLASSIFIED EMPLOYEES OF THE YEAR

Mike Lehr - Skilled Trades

Mike Lehr smiling at a construction site.

Continuing his role for the past 5 years, Mike remains dedicated as a Construction & Energy Technician at Manteca Unified School District.

Mr. Lehr is also the San Joaquin County Office of Education’s 2024 Classified School Employee of the Year in the Skilled Trade Services category.

“Mike is an asset to the Facilities & Operations Department and Manteca Unified School District. He excels at working with teams on projects he oversees and is an excellent communicator. He is team-minded, pleasant, and always welcoming to ideas and challenges voiced by members of the Core Planning Teams.”

– Facilities & Operations Department

Chris Snell - Custodial & Maintenance Services

Chris Snell smiling while holding his maintenance cart.

Chris Snell is celebrating over 25 years with Manteca Unified and currently serves as the trusted Head Custodian at Golden West Elementary.

“Chris is a ray of sunshine! Positive, patient, flexible, dedicated, and just the hardest-working person. He has a strong passion for serving our students and staff members, and he provides highly effective leadership on campus.”

– Golden West Staff

Paula Gulbronson - Clerical & Administrative Services

Paula Gulbronson has been a loyal Sierra High Timberwolf for 25 years and counting.

“It is rare to find an individual with the willingness to work and challenge themselves at the level that Paula does. She is continuously striving to improve her skills and push herself to the next level. Paula is a humble leader, unafraid to step in and assist in difficult situations.”

– Sierra High Staff

Sandra Burch - Security Services

Sandi Burch smiling in front of Golden West

Sandra Burch has dedicated the past decade to Golden West Elementary School, where she currently serves as the School Site Assistant prioritizing student safety each and every day.

“Ms. Burch is the consummate professional and team player. She is extremely effective in mentoring, supervising, motivating students, and promoting a positive campus climate. She is patient and effective in supporting each unique student.”