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Board Recognizes May 2025 Employees of the Month

Mark Benson and Maureen Loft

May 2025 Classified Employee of the Month Mark Benson and Certificated Employee of the Month Maureen Loft were recognized by the County Board of Education.

Posted April 25, 2025

The Sacramento County Office of Education (SCOE) is one of 58 county offices located throughout the state. Approximately 780 regular and more than 815 temporary and substitute SCOE staff work year-round providing services that complement and supplement those offered by public school districts in Sacramento County. The Sacramento County Board of Education celebrates the accomplishments and exemplary service of SCOE employees through the Employees of the Month Program.

Classified Employee of the Month

Mark (Stephen) Benson, a Transition Specialist at Elinor Lincoln Hickey Jr./Sr. High School, was nominated by Principal Lisa Alcalá. Benson has an ability to connect with students in a way that makes them feel supported as he holds them accountable to being the best version of themselves. On any given day you may find Benson having a heart-to-heart with a young person about their attendance, behavior, or academics and how these things align to their future goals. Additionally, he has taken the lead on ensuring that students complete their academic testing in reading and math, so students are supported academically in the best possible way. Benson is an outstanding team player and is always willing to help out when it benefits students and staff alike. Mark Benson has been a SCOE employee since 2015.

Certificated Employee of the Month

Maureen Loft, a Special Education Teacher at Leo A. Palmiter Jr./Sr. High School, was nominated by Principal Lauren Roth. Loft is kind and supportive to colleagues alike, collaborating effectively within the culinary program to ensure lessons are well-connected. When a teacher is absent, she assists with lessons and student support. She is patient, helpful, and positive, with a strong proficiency of using technology in the classroom. Students enjoy being in her class because she is engaging, patient, and supportive. She creates a welcoming and structured learning environment, adapts to diverse learning needs, and fosters an atmosphere that encourages student success. Maureen Loft has been a SCOE employee since 2017.

About SCOE’s Employee Recognition Program

Parents, colleagues, and community members wishing to recommend a non-management staff member for consideration as a SCOE Employee of the Month may submit a nomination form. For questions about the program or to request a nomination form, please call (916) 228-2737.

  • Employees of the Month Archive—this month's recipients join hundreds of other exemplary SCOE employees who have been recognized by the Board of Education over the last 40 years for their superior work.