PCOE honors classified employees

At the conclusion of every school year, the Placer County Office of Education highlights individuals who exemplify the best in education. That honor also applies to those individuals who aren't in the front of the classroom but nevertheless contribute to the betterment of student's future. In south Placer, four individuals were honored for their efforts. Winners included Tracey Rissanen for child nutrition at Spring View Middle School in Rocklin; Crystal Gist for Para-Educator and Instructional Assistance at Challenge High School in Roseville; and Sharon Laguna for Transportation at the Roseville Joint Union High School District. Granite Bay High School's Anna Hagen also won in the category of Support Services and Security. The high school is a part of the Roseville Joint Union High School District. Spring View Middle School Principal Beth Davidson said Rissanen is a top-notch employee who embodies the values of the school. "She centers her work and decision-making on what's best for students," Davidson said. "Her organization, collaboration and positive attitude are just a few of the many qualities that make her successful in our Nutrition Services Department. She creates an inviting and encouraging atmosphere for her Nutrition Services team where her colleagues feel appreciated and give 100 percent every day. Tracy is truly a quality professional and person - her work ethic and compassionate nature are a dynamite combination." Requests for quotes or interviews to speak of Gist or Laguna were not received, as of deadline. In a press release issued by the Placer County Office of Education, Superintendent Garbolino-Mojica noted the collective effort it takes to make a difference in a child's future. "It takes an entire school community to ensure our students are ready for college, career and life,"Garbolino-Mojica said. "As the Placer County Superintendent of Schools, I am honored to recognize these amazing individuals for their commitment and contribution in making Placer County gold in education." This year, 39 classified school employees from all across the county were nominated from their respective districts in the following categories: child nutrition; maintenance, operations and facilities; office and technical; para-educator and instructional assistance; Support Services and Security; and Transportation, according to the press release. Nominees were judged on work performance, school community involvement, leadership and commitment. In addition to the trio of awards handed to classified employees, south Placer schools swept the 2019 Teacher of the Year honors. The 2019 honors were received by Erin Granucci, science and Project Lead the Way biomedical teacher at Roseville High School; John-Paul Gonzalez, physical education teacher from Placer K to eight Elementary School in Loomis; and Ashley Rue, first-grade teacher from Blue Oaks Elementary School in Roseville.