The Sacramento County Office of Education (SCOE) is one of 58 county offices located throughout the state. Approximately 650 regular and more than 950 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
Cristal Mendoza, a para educator in the Special Education Department, was nominated by Principal Jillian Friend and colleague Lisa Hart for her dedication and optimism. Since 2024, Mendoza has been a dedicated and hardworking employee who takes great pride in her job. She arrives each day with a positive attitude and consistently gives her best effort. Mendoza excels both independently and as a supportive team member. She is equally comfortable stepping into leadership roles as she is following another’s direction, demonstrating flexibility and strong collaboration skills. With her education-driven approach, Mendoza has a natural ability to teach and often develops creative and challenging ideas to inspire her students. Her calm demeanor, paired with a playful and imaginative disposition, resonates beautifully with children and fosters a positive learning environment. Mendoza takes joy in watching each child she works with grow and thrives on facilitating learning tailored to each child’s unique needs. Her dedication, creativity, and genuine care make her an invaluable part of the Dry Creek team.
Certificated Employee of the Month
Keeana Ram, Special Education Teacher at Rio Linda High School, was nominated by Principal Jillian Friend for her outstanding dedication to students. Ram joined SCOE in 2022 and, after serving as a para educator, stepped into her new role as a Special Education teacher in July 2025. From the start, she has brought the same exceptional skill, warmth, and professionalism she demonstrated as a para educator—only now as the guiding force in her own classroom. Step inside her classroom and you’ll find smiling faces, genuine laughter, and students actively engaged with the support of a cohesive, well-led team. Ram is intentional in designing activities that build independence and help students reach their full potential. She sets high expectations for herself, her staff, and her students—and those expectations are already paying off. In just a few months, she has elevated academic rigor and expanded inclusive opportunities for students at Rio Linda High and within the broader community. A quick study with strong instincts, she reflects deeply on her practice and consistently seeks new ways to meet students where they are. Her commitment is steadfast, and her care for students is unmistakable.