Without the hard work of classified employees in San Benito
County, there would be no food to feed the students, the trash cans
would be overflowing with garbage and students without cars would
have no way of getting to school or field trips.
Without the hard work of classified employees in San Benito County, there would be no food to feed the students, the trash cans would be overflowing with garbage and students without cars would have no way of getting to school or field trips.
In honor of its hard working campus supervisors, bus drivers, guidance technicians, custodians, food service providers and all the other classified employees, local schools are celebrating Classified Employees Appreciation week. The 115 employees at San Benito High School enjoyed a luncheon last Friday and the Hollister School District sent out certificates of appreciation to every classified employee. Teachers and students at local schools will continue to show their appreciation during the week.
Geri Sanchez, Classified School Employment Assocation (CSEA) Chapter 173 President, said the appreciation week was started more than 50 years ago to help recognize the effort put forth by classified employees.
“We’re the backbone of this school,” she said. “Without us, I don’t think the teachers and administrators would be able to do their jobs.”
Associated Student Body President Spencer Genesy said he’s glad there is a week to appreciate the people who help run the school, and that they often go unnoticed by the students.
“I think there is a certain lack of appreciation by the students because we don’t have the one-on-one time with them like we do with the teachers,” he said. “But they’re one of the most important parts of the infrastructure of this school. They keep us safe and keep the school in check.”
Campus Supervisor Robert Ramirez said he feels appreciated all the time because of friendly banter he shares with students.
“We work with the kids,” he said. “We show them respect and they give respect back.”
A classified employee includes anyone who isn’t certified, which essentially includes all employees at the school who aren’t teachers or administration. Sanchez said during recent years changes have been made, and the employees feel more appreciated.
“This year classified employees were even included on the interviewing panel to help find new administrative positions and that’s something we’re never been invited to do before,” she said.
CSEA at SBHSD has also been working hand-in-hand with the California Teachers Association and making sure they’re both getting what they need from the district.
Superintendent Jean Burns Slater said the classified staff at SBHS are outstanding and the school wouldn’t function without their support and dedication.
“Our teachers convey instruction, but it’s classified employees that really keep the school glued together,” she said. “We really wouldn’t be able to function without them and we’re very fortunate to have such a great staff.”
