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Classified Employee of the Year
10 CSEA members selected as 2025 Classified Employees of the Year
Classified School Employee of the Year (CSEY) and Community College Classified Employees of the Year (CCCEY) recipients are those whose service and dedication go beyond the norm. This year, 10 members were named CSEY and CCCEY recipients, eight for K-12 schools and two for community colleges.
Community College
- Kevin Anderson, San Joaquin Delta Chapter 359
- Vanessa Saenz, Grossmont Cuyamaca CCD Chapter 707
K-12
- Gerardo "Jerry" Buenrostro, Brawley Chapter 335
- Bryan Cooper, American River Chapter 528
- Melissa Erman, Huntington Beach UHSD Chapter 157
- Maria “Lisa” Lopez, Oceanside Unified Chapter 370
- Kurtland Lucas, Garden Grove Chapter 121
- Gina Matz, Fullerton Elementary Chapter 130
- Jane Pina, Riverview Chapter 168
- Amrita Vu, Los Gatos-Saratoga Chapter 87
“The individuals we celebrate today represent the very best of who we are. They remind us that excellence doesn’t always come with fanfare—but it always leaves an impact. These honorees lead with humility, strength, and an unshakable commitment to their students, their coworkers, and their communities,” said CSEA Association President Adam Weinberger.
Association President Adam Weinberger speaks at the CSEY Ceremony in Sacramento.
Community Colleges
Kevin Anderson, San Joaquin Delta Chapter 359
Member of San Joaquin Delta Chapter 359, Kevin Anderson, is the Head Athletic Trainer at Delta College.
Anderson often draws on his personal experience to make connections with students. He explained, it is these “daily interactions with our student athletes, sports medicine students, and staff that are the most enjoyable part of the job.”
“I originally had planned to attend college on an athletic scholarship. Due to an injury, plans changed, and I ended up deciding to pursue sports medicine. I use that experience to assist our student athletes to not only return to their respective playing field but to also be successful with their academic career,” said Anderson.
“Kevin Anderson has served as head athletic trainer at Delta College for 12 years, exemplifying excellence in athletic care, student advocacy, and professional leadership. He advances Vision 2030 and equitable student outcomes by ensuring that all athletes—regardless of background—receive high-quality, inclusive training and support,” said the Community College Chancellor’s Office.
“Kevin integrates innovative techniques and technology into his programs, supervises Athletic Training and Care students from the University of the Pacific, and leads initiatives such as open clinics and equipment partnerships for underserved students. His collaborative approach bridges coaches, administrators, and staff to promote equitable policies and build a supportive, unified athletic culture.”
Vanessa Saenz, Grossmont Cuyamaca CCD Chapter 707
Member of Grossmont Cuyamaca CCD Chapter 707, Vanessa Saenz is an Admissions and Records Specialist Senior, International Relations, Cuyamaca College.
“Vanessa Saenz, senior Admissions and Records specialist for international students at Cuyamaca College, exemplifies the values of Vision 2030 through more than two decades of service dedicated to removing barriers and ensuring equitable access for all students. A Cuyamaca College alumna, Vanessa brings a unique student-centered perspective to her role, proactively redesigning systems and processes to support student success before challenges arise. Her bilingual support, leadership in international student services, and cross-campus collaboration reflect a deep commitment to inclusivity and community care,” said the Community College Chancellor’s Office.
“She actively contributes to campus planning efforts, professional development, and committee work, all while maintaining exemplary standards in service, compliance, and communication. Vanessa’s work directly supports institutional goals for access, retention, and student achievement—making her a vital force in advancing Cuyamaca College’s mission and transforming lives through education.”
K-12
Gerardo "Jerry" Buenrostro, Brawley Chapter 335
Member of Brawley Chapter 335, Gerardo Buenrostro, is the Paraprofessional Services classified employee of the year. Buenrostro is a Paraeducator at Barbara Worth Junior High School in Brawley Elementary School District, Imperial County.
Buenrostro says, “helping my students and seeing them succeed in their classes motivates me to continue doing what I do. Additionally, I enjoy building good relationships with them and the teachers I work with.”
“Gerardo Buenrostro consistently exemplifies excellence in his work performance as a paraeducator through his attention to detail, patience, and commitment to student success,” said the California DOE.
“He takes a proactive approach to building relationships with the students he serves, making a concerted effort to understand their individual needs, strengths, and challenges. His background in assisting students with Individualized Education Programs and Section 504 plans is instrumental in assisting the general education teachers since he can see these students in different learning environments.”
Bryan Cooper, American River Chapter 528
Member of American River Chapter 528, Bryan Cooper is the Technical Services classified employee of the year. Cooper is a Theater Production Specialist II at Folsom High School in Folsom Cordova Unified School District, Sacramento County.
“I am trying to model a good work ethic, and inspire the next generation of kids, whether they go into theater or not. I am trying to be a positive role model for them in every situation,” says Cooper.
He explained, “When things work great—it's great, but a lot of times in theater we are put under pressure and things aren’t always working out right—so I just try to model behavior and have an impact on kids that are coming up and shaping our future.”
“Bryan Cooper consistently demonstrates excellence in school and community involvement through his dedicated support of theatre productions and technical needs across the Folsom Cordova Unified School District. He plays a pivotal role in ensuring the success of all school-related performances and activities held in the theatre, including musicals, plays, concerts, parent nights, and events like the jazz festival,” said the California DOE.
Cooper also assists community members who rent the theater, and “His ability to build trust and create a welcoming environment has made him a key figure for [the community].”
Melissa Erman, Huntington Beach UHSD Chapter 157
Member of Huntington Beach UHSD Chapter 157, Melissa Erman is the Food and Nutrition Services classified employee of the year. Erman is the Nutrition Operations Supervisor in the Food and Nutrition Services Department at Huntington Beach Union High School District, Orange County.
“I’m inspired every day by the students we serve, knowing that a nutritious meal can fuel their learning and well-being, motivating me to give my best. What I love most about my job is making a positive impact in their lives, one meal at a time,” said Erman.
“Since becoming the operations supervisor at Huntington Beach Union High School District, Melissa Erman has been adamant about participating and being involved with school nutrition associations to keep up with ever-changing trends, policies, and other operators whom she leans on for answers and support,” said the California DOE.
“Erman has not only attended state and national conferences, but also has been involved in training sessions where she educated other nutrition services operators on some of the best practices at Huntington Beach Union High School District, allowing others to potentially use the shared knowledge.”
Maria “Lisa” Lopez, Oceanside Unified Chapter 370
Member of Oceanside Unified Chapter 370, Maria “Lisa” Lopez is the Clerical and Administrative Services classified employee of the year. Lopez is a School Community Advisor at César Chávez Middle School in Oceanside Unified School District, San Diego County.
“My role at the school is to be a bridge that unites the school community with the student’s family,” says Lopez about what she loves most about her job.
“Some days and circumstances are emotionally heavy, but knowing that I am supporting students and families is what keeps me going on the tough days. I enjoy helping students and their families feel like they belong and showing them that I am there to support them in any way I can,” said Lopez.
“Maria ‘Lisa’ Lopez is a respectful, passionate advocate for Oceanside Unified School District families. She tries to see the request behind every complaint, truly looking for ways to improve systems in such a way as to benefit families,” said the California DOE.
“A brave leader, she does not shy away from challenging conversations, instead entering them with compassion and integrity. For the 2023–24 school year, Lopez partnered with the new César Chávez assistant principal to increase family engagement and trust on issues related to student support and discipline.”
Kurtland Lucas, Garden Grove Chapter 121
Member of Garden Grove Chapter 121, Kurtland Lucas is the Custodial and Maintenance Services classified employee of the year. Lucas is the Head Custodian at Crosby Elementary in Garden Grove Unified School District, Orange County.
“Kurtland Lucas has worked for the Garden Grove Unified School District for 45 years, and seven of those years have been at Crosby Elementary. As head custodian, Lucas consistently goes above and beyond to ensure district facilities are maintained to the highest standards, creating a clean and welcoming environment for staff and students,” said the California DOE.
“He arrives at work an hour before his scheduled shift begins to ensure school facilities are ready for the day. His early start ensures that Crosby Elementary is spotless and everything is in place, allowing for a smooth start to the day for everyone.”
Gina Matz, Fullerton Elementary Chapter 130
Member of Fullerton Elementary Chapter 130, Gina Matz is the Skilled Trades Services classified employee of the year. Matz is a Painter at Fullerton School District, Orange County.
“I’ve been doing this since I was 18 years old, for 39 years, I have always loved it,” is how Matz describes her job. She is also passionate about teamwork in her district.
“We have a good group of people here that make work easy,” she says, “people are working together, and it's just a good feeling when I go to work . . . I have a great paint partner, and the custodians help us out, and we all work together. On the job site, we work with the teachers, the principals, and they all help us out. Everyone is a team, it's just cool! I just feel blessed that I ended up here.”
“Gina Matz is very cautious and attentive to student safety as she navigates campuses. When arriving at each site, she informs the site office personnel of her presence and what her task at hand will be for the visit,” said the California DOE.
“Matz also brings a smile and positive attitude everywhere she goes. Students are excited to see her, and she serves as a role model for them. In an industry dominated by men, Matz will outwork, outhustle, and outlast all her colleagues, serving as an example to not only female students but all students.”
Jane Pina, Riverview Chapter 168
Member of Riverview Chapter 168, Jane Pina is the Transportation Services classified employee of the year. Pina is a Special Education Bus Attendant in Washington Unified School District Transportation Department, Yolo County.
Pina explains that her favorite part of her job is, “Of course, my kids, but also the amazing parents. They do the hard work day in and day out, always with a smile and with unconditional love.”
“Jane Pina’s role as a bus attendant for special education students showcases her exceptional dedication to student safety, well-being, and success. She goes beyond her basic responsibilities, using her expertise in nonverbal communication and student-centered care to create a supportive and structured environment,” said the California DOE.
“She skillfully assists students with mobility needs, uses picture cues to communicate with nonverbal students, and applies de-escalation strategies when necessary. Her patience and attentiveness ensure that every child feels secure and valued.”
Amrita Vu, Los Gatos-Saratoga Chapter 87
Member of Los Gatos-Saratoga Chapter 875, Amrita Vu is the Health and Student Services classified employee of the year. Vu is the Lead Therapist at Los Gatos High School in Los Gatos-Saratoga Union High School District, Santa Clara County.
“The opportunity to support adolescents at such a critical stage in their development” is what inspires Vu at her job every day.
She explains, “School is often where students experience both their greatest challenges and their greatest growth. Being present in that environment allows me to provide immediate, consistent support. There's something incredibly rewarding about watching a student grow in confidence, learn to manage their emotions, and begin to believe in themselves. Knowing I played a part in that journey makes the work I do deeply fulfilling.”
“Amrita Vu exemplifies a profound commitment to enhancing the image of classified school employees both within the school and in the broader community. As lead therapist at Los Gatos High School, she has become a beacon of wellness, hope, and advocacy, showing how vital mental health and behavioral support staff are in shaping the success and well-being of students,” said the California DOE.
“Her leadership in developing the school’s Wellness Center and mental health program has not only provided much-needed support to students but has also transformed the perception of classified employees as integral members of the school community.”
