SCOE Classified Employee of the Year Program
Classified (non-certificated, non-management) employees are vital staff members who play key roles in creating a school environment that promotes student achievement, safety, and health. They work hand-in-hand with teachers and administrators to do things like keep facilities safe and clean, handle clerical and fiscal responsibilities, maintain computers and infrastructure, and provide extra support directly to students. The professionals nominated for this prestigious honor are recognized for their ongoing and exemplary performance of responsibilities contributing significantly to the success of SCOE programs, services, or special projects.
The award is presented to SCOE classified staff in recognition of exceptional job performance and distinguished contributions. Employees may be nominated in one of nine categories, including:
- Clerical and Administrative Services
- Custodial and Maintenance Services
- Food and Nutrition Services
- Health and Student Services
- Paraprofessional Services
- Security Services
- Skilled Trades Services
- Technical Services
- Transportation Services
Since 2008, SCOE's Classified Employee of the Year has joined those selected by local districts to compete at the county level. Winners of the county competition advance to the California Department of Education (CDE) Classified School Employee of the Year competition. CDE recognizes exemplary classified employees statewide who best represent California and symbolize contributions and commitment to education.
Nominations
SCOE staff may contact the Communications Office to nominate an employee to compete for SCOE Classified Employee of the Year. A call for nominations usually takes place in January.
Previous SCOE Classified Employees of the Year
Historical listing of the classified staff members selected as SCOE Classified Employee of the Year.
2024 SCOE Classified Employee of the Year
Alexander (Alex) Ayuli
Special Education
SCOE 2024 Classified EOY News Article
2023 SCOE Classified Employee of the Year
Rachel Dennis
Special Education
SCOE 2023 Classified EOY News Article
2022 SCOE Classified Employee of the Year
Heather Scott
Special Education
SCOE 2022 Classified EOY News Article
2021 SCOE Classified Employee of the Year
James Wagnon
Sly Park Environmental Education Center
SCOE 2021 Classified EOY News Article
2020 SCOE Classified Employee of the Year
Cari Wernicke
Juvenile Court Schools
SCOE 2020 Classified EOY News Article
2019 SCOE Classified Employee of the Year
Scott Burton
Support Services
SCOE 2019 Classified EOY News Article
2018 SCOE Classified Employee of the Year
Darlene Furtado
Special Education Technician/WorkAbility
SCOE 2018 Classified EOY News Article
2017 SCOE Classified Employee of the Year
Natalya Edwards
Placer Re-Entry Program–Auburn
SCOE 2017 Classified EOY News Article
2016 SCOE Classified Employee of the Year
Kelly Bernier-Mun
Support Services—also Sacramento County Classified Employee of the Year ("Maintenance, Operations, and Facilities" Category)
SCOE 2016 Classified EOY News Article
2015 SCOE Classified Employee of the Year
Julie Evans
Payroll
SCOE 2015 Classified EOY News Article
2008 SCOE Classified Employee of the Year
Beth Flory
Communications Office—also one of the Sacramento County Classified Employees of the Year
1995–96 SCOE Classified Employee of the Year
Alan Griffin
Facilities Services
1994–95 SCOE Classified Employee of the Year
Cathie Young
Community Schools
1993–94 SCOE Classified Employee of the Year
Carri Werve
Special Education
1992–93 SCOE Classified Employee of the Year
Deborah Muller
Transportation
1991–92 SCOE Classified Employee of the Year
Alvin Abe
Facilities
1990–91 SCOE Classified Employee of the Year
Debbie Calvello
Special Education
1989–90 SCOE Classified Employee of the Year
Sheila Andrews
Special Education
1988–89 SCOE Classified Employee of the Year
Diane Larez
Personnel
1987–88 SCOE Classified Employee of the Year
Jim Welliver
Special Education
1986–87 SCOE Classified Employee of the Year
Emory "Mac" McElresh
Business Services/Facilities
1985–86 SCOE Classified Employee of the Year
Cindy Burke
Prevention