On February 22, Kelly Bernier-Mun was going about her daily duties as a custodian at Leo A. Palmiter Jr./Sr. High School when co-workers and County Superintendent David W. Gordon surprised her with cheers and balloons, happily informing her that she had been selected as the Sacramento County Office of Education (SCOE) 2016 Classified School Employee of the Year.
"I am so surprised! This is such an honor," said Bernier-Mun, who has been a SCOE employee since April 2007 and was honored as a Classified School Employee of the Month for July 2009 and May 2015. She will be recognized at the May 3 meeting of the County Board of Education, as well as at SCOE's Employee Recognition Day this August.
Bernier-Mun will now go on to represent SCOE in the "Maintenance, Operations and Facilities" category at the Sacramento County level, competing as part of the California Department of Education (CDE) Classified School Employee of the Year program. CDE recognizes exemplary classified employees statewide who best represent California and symbolize contributions and commitment to education.
Two additional SCOE classified employees have been selected to represent the organization at the county level: Special Education Technician Kelly Kuhl (EOM March 2006), who works in SCOE's WorkAbility program, will compete in the "Para-Educator/Instructional Assistance" category. Multimedia Design Specialist John Woodward (EOM June 2007), part of the Communications Office team, will represent SCOE in the "Office and Technical" category.
The SCOE Classified School Employee of the Year award is presented annually to SCOE classified staff in recognition of and appreciation for exceptional job performance and distinguished contributions to the SCOE community. The program pays tribute to the efforts of SCOE's outstanding classified school employees. Past SCOE Classified School Employees of the Year are listed online.
Classified employees are vital staff members who play key roles in creating a school environment that promotes student achievement, safety, and health. The employees nominated for this prestigious honor are being recognized for their ongoing and exemplary performance of responsibilities contributing significantly to the success of SCOE programs, services, and special projects.