2020 Classified of Year

Anna, who has dedicated 18 years to the Poway Unified School District, is known to be a passionate staff member who goes above and beyond for students with severe disabilities. She ensures the success and inclusion of all students by working in a one-on-one environment tailored to their needs and interests. She is dedicated to providing students with experience and growth opportunities they otherwise would never have - a trademark to the work of an Instructional Assistant. Anna is a co-advisor for the Best Buddies program at Rancho Bernardo High School, and has helped change the way General Education students relate to Special Education Students. Her commitment to students’ quality of life is evident in her daily interactions with them in the classroom, around campus, and in the community. At the end of the day, she works tirelessly to ensure each student has a positive, inclusive, and rewarding “RB Experience.”

David Oliva, Bus Transportation Aide, Transportation

David is known to be an excellent, dedicated, and loyal employee with outstanding attendance and a positive attitude. He is versatile, dependable, flexible, and is sought after by management to assist in challenging roles. David has served in Transportation for five years, and is often the responsible bus aide on some of Poway Unified School District’s most challenging routes, often putting himself in harm’s way. David reacts calmly and appropriately in emergency situations, and is often consulted for advice on how to positively influence students’ behaviors while aboard the bus. His commitment to the well-being and safety of others extends to his offduty hours. He has personally created customized booksfor the comfort and entertainment of students on his assigned route and continuously thinks of ways to improve the ride (and day) of all students under his care (like playing bus karaoke, for instance). His vigilant concern for others’ safety comes second nature as a trained EMT, a key quality necessary in the transportation of students. David is also a natural community advocate. He has taken courses in American Sign Language, completed a certificate in Autism Behavioral Intervention, and continues to adapt himself to the needs of others to bring greater meaning to lives inside and outside the school community.

Donna maintains the ebb and flow of a library that supports a school of 1,534 students. Her care for materials and resources is unsurpassed, and her willingness to continue to learn and thrive in the changing digital world shows he true commitment to achieve excellence in all she does.

She is known to supply staff with what they need, when they need it from the library. Her ability to filter needed materials through grade levels and disciplines, while keeping staff apprised of what is available and when, is no small feat. Donna supports all activities and works to give everyone equitable access to the library and all resources. She does this with encouragement, true diplomacy, and incredible work ethic.

Donna truly strives to give each and every student the individualized attention they may need. The library is a vital part of the campus, and Donna is at the center of its success. She is there to celebrate and support students and will always share a kind word for their concerns.