TUSTIN, Calif.—SchoolsFirst Federal Credit Union said it partnered with the Santa Maria-Bonita School District for the second annual Excellence in Education Awards Gala, an event recognizing district employees for their contributions to student success.
Held March 27 at the Santa Maria Fairpark Convention Center, the gala honored employees across three categories—classified staff, certificated staff and administrators—with nominees selected by peers and winners chosen by a panel of community partners, according to the credit union.
This year’s top honorees were Lucy Castaneda, office manager at El Camino Junior High School, as Classified Employee of the Year; Pamela Morse, school counselor at Oakley Elementary School, as Teacher of the Year; and Katie Ibarra, program specialist in special education, as Administrator of the Year.
“Educators and school staff play a critical role in shaping student success, both in and out of the classroom,” Josh Smith, VP-school and community relations, said in a statement, adding the gala is intended to spotlight the dedication and impact those employees bring to their school communities.