SCOE Honors 22 Outstanding Classified Employees
Mina Henriquez, a translator for the Cotati-Rohnert Park Unified School District, receives a certificate of recognition during the 2025 Classified School Employee of the Year event.
The Sonoma County Office of Education (SCOE) celebrated 22 classified employees who have demonstrated exceptional service to local schools, districts, and students during a reception held Wednesday, April 23, at the agency’s headquarters in Santa Rosa.
The Classified Employee of the Year event is part of a recognition program organized by SCOE that honors the vital contributions of classified staff. These employees support student learning, directly or indirectly, but do not need to hold a teaching credential to do their work. Classified employees include administrative support staff, janitorial employees, paraprofessionals, and technology support personnel.
Nominations for the recognition program are submitted by supervisors from Sonoma County’s school districts and sites, and are reviewed by a selection committee composed of labor representatives and classified employees. The committee then selects one finalist from each service category.
“Our selection committee heard about employees who have mastered the art of wearing many hats, and bridge builders who foster strong bonds with our students and school families through positive daily interactions,” said Dr. Amie Carter, Sonoma County Superintendent of Schools. “A through line in this year’s nominations was the deep commitment that each honoree has to their work, their colleagues, and students.”
Wednesday’s event celebrated both nominees and finalists, drawing approximately 120 guests. Guests heard powerful stories highlighting the dedication and impact of classified staff across Sonoma County.
“Because of her, so many families feel like they truly belong at our school — and that is priceless,” said Valley Vista Elementary Principal Jaime Buschman, referring to Angie Sideris, a student advisor at the campus. Sideries was selected as the finalist in the Health and Student Services category.
Finalists in each of the seven categories recognized on Wednesday received a $100 gift card donated by Exchange Bank. They also move forward to the state-level recognition program for classified employees, organized by the California Department of Education.
Keep reading to learn more about this year’s honorees:
2025 CLASSIFIED SCHOOL EMPLOYEE OF THE YEAR HONOREES
- Clerical and Administrative Services
- Custodial and Maintenance Services
- Food and Nutrition Services
- Health and Student Services
- Paraprofessional Services
- Security Services
- Technical Services