Classified School Employee of the Year

The Classified Employee of the Year program is a two-step process in which we recognize Regional Classified Employees of the Year from each Educational Service District (ESD). From there, we select an honoree as our Washington State Classified Employee of the Year to put forward as our national nominee for the US Department of Education's national Recognizing Inspiring School Employees (RISE) award.

2024 Honorees

Learn more about this year's honorees!

Frequently Asked Questions

Who is eligible for Classified School Employee of the Year?

Anyone who is working as public school classified staff member in a non-executive management position, plans to continue working in that capacity through the following school year, and has not already been recognized as a Regional or State Classified School Employee of the Year is eligible for this award.

How do I nominate an employee?

The Classified School Employee of the Year nominations are accepted online. Anyone can nominate an educator for this award by using the Educator of the Year Nomination Form. OSPI sends the nominee, their supervisor, and their regional coordinator a copy of the nomination and a link to the online application. The application includes biographical information, a few essays, and letters of recommendation. Nominees must submit an application to be considered for their region's finalist.

How is the Classified School Employee of the Year selected?

Selection begins at the Educational Service District (ESD), where each ESD selects its Regional Classified School Employee of the Year and submits that name to the state. Regional Classified School Employees of the Year are evaluated by a state selection committee. The state committee uses the written application and letters of support and conducts a panel interview. Applications are evaluated based on the following criteria:

• The educator's work is recognized as exceptional, and they have the respect and admiration of their community.
• The educator is committed to professional growth and building deeper connections between schools and communities.
• The educator collaborates with colleagues, students, and families to create a school culture of respect, success, and care for others.
• The educator is a leader who makes connections between their daily work and student success.

When is the Classified School Employee of the Year selected?

The Regional Classified School Employee of the Year is selected by the end of the current school year, and the State Classified Employee of the Year is selected in mid-late summer or early fall. The State Superintendent announces the State Classified School Employee of the Year in the fall, during the annual award ceremony.

How are Classified School Employees of the Year recognized?

State and Regional Classified School Employees of the Year -

• Are recognized at the Award Ceremony in the fall.
• May attend a leadership retreat and have opportunities for continuing professional development throughout the year.

Additionally, the State Classified School Employee of the Year -

• Serves as Washington's nominee for the US Department of Education's national Recognizing Inspiring School Employees (RISE) award.
• May be invited to participate in more statewide leadership or encouraged to speak to state level decision makers.