Classified Employees
of the Year named
2002-03
Each year, the Encinitas Union School District recognizes outstanding classified employees in the District. Each school site selects a Classified Employee of the Year based on a variety of criteria including motivation on the job, job performance, cooperation with others, knowledge of the job, school and community service, willingness to take the extra step, and outstanding characteristics, achievements, and contributions to the betterment of the school site and the District. This year's school site Classified Employees of the Year include:
 Jose Zepeda Flora Vista School |
 Kaye Kelford La Costa Heights School |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
| (photo not available)
Laurie
Underwood |
(photo not available) Sue
Yezbak |
|
|
(photo not available) David “Spanky” Gaus |
(photo not available) Linda Rana |
|
Esther
Graciano, a special education instructional assistant at Ocean
Knoll, was selected as the district wide Classified Employee of the Year for
2003. Esther has been employed by the Encinitas Union School District for
the past 20 years as an instructional assistant. During this time, she has
demonstrated the qualities and characteristics of an outstanding employee,
as well as being a strong advocate for children.
Ms. Garciano currently works with Ocean Knoll’s
intermediate Special Day Class students. In her day-to-day contact with
students, she is caring, compassionate, and encouraging. Her patience and
understanding of the special needs of her students allow them to take risks
and move forward in both their studies and behavior. She is firm, yet fair;
nurturing with high expectations; and models a positive attitude with a
wonderful sense of humor. Her relationships with colleagues and staff are
always professional and productive. She willingly shares ideas and
strategies to support not only
her special needs students,
but students throughout campus. During parent conference weeks, she makes
herself available to assist teachers who need translation support for second
language families. She has a school wide focus and works collaboratively to
reach Ocean Knoll’s goals. She works during lunchtime as a noon supervisor
to further support Ocean Knoll’s SDC students who require more structure and
directed play.
Ms. Graciano is greatly respected by all staff and students. She is fair and consistent when dealing with students, and maintains their self-esteem and dignity at all times. She is an excellent problem-solver who looks for the creative solution to an otherwise difficult situation. She is a true asset to the program and staff at Ocean Knoll.
Each of the Classified Employees of the Year personifies the high quality of employee in the Encinitas Union School District. Moreover, their selection reflects the high regard their peers have for them and their contributions to the site and District. Congratulations to all.