Brent Ball

Clara Barton Elementary School

Brent Ball exemplifies dedication and compassion in his role as a counselor, consistently advocating for students with a passion that is both inspiring and unwavering. He is intelligent, responsive and flexible, utilizing innovative approaches tailored to meet each student’s unique needs. Ball has a gift for building strong, trusting relationships with students, empowering them in their journey of self-discovery and self-worth, often having a profound impact on their self-esteem. One example of Ball’s impactful work involves a group of students who initially viewed fighting as a way to solve problems. Recognizing their interest in football, Ball organized daily scrimmages during recess and lunch, using the game to build trust and teamwork among them. His efforts not only redirected their energy but also strengthened their bonds and helped instill healthier choices.In another instance, Ball supported a student struggling with severe mental health concerns, who had stopped attending school. Ball made home visits, personally walking the student to school, and spent countless hours helping her develop coping strategies.

“Knowing my passion and work ethic has been recognized to this level is an incredible honor.” 

Maria Contreras-Lopez

Franklin Elementary School

Maria Contreras-Lopez embodies the spirit of dedication and excellence, going far beyond her role as Franklin Elementary’s librarian to make a meaningful impact on students, staff and community. In her primary role, Contreras-Lopez fosters a genuine love of reading among students. She not only manages the library with exceptional care but also personally purchases prizes to reward students and classes for achieving reading goals, such as completing Accelerated Reader tests. This personal touch motivates students to develop strong reading habits, directly influencing their academic success. Her contributions extend well beyond the library walls. She actively supports the Character Counts program by designing individualized certificates and prizes to celebrate students’ achievements in character development. This thoughtful recognition boosts student morale and reinforces these values. Her willingness to assist wherever needed demonstrates her commitment to the school community. Whether answering phones in the office, supporting parents or stepping in to supervise recess and lunch duties during staff shortages, she is always ready to help. 

“I am so happy that I get to witness students reading every day and coming up to me and tell me everything about their books.”

Wendy Higashi

Vibrant Minds Charter School

Wendy Higashi has been an invaluable member of the educational community for decades, beginning her career at a private Christian school and later joining the founding staff of Vibrant Minds Charter School (VMCS) in 2015. Higashi’s unwavering work ethic, flexibility and loyalty have made her an essential part of VMCS since its inception. She played a crucial role in ensuring the school’s survival during its early years, helping turn the school’s vision into reality. In addition to being an instructional assistant during the early years, Higashi volunteered in the office, assisted with recruitment and helped organize social events for both staff and scholars. Her support was vital during the recruitment process, where she helped attract families to the new school, ensuring full enrollment. Without her dedication and involvement, the early days of VMCS would have been much more difficult. Although the school is now more established, she continues to exceed the expectations of her role as an instructional assistant. 

“To be recognized for contributing to the education and inspiration of our scholars, and the opportunity to work with our dedicated teachers and administrators — I am truly blessed.”

Rosemarie Labiano

Irvine International Academy

Rosemarie Labiano consistently goes above and beyond to ensure the smooth operation of the school, managing not only the visible tasks but also the behind-the-scenes work that keeps everything running efficiently. One of her standout contributions has been the reorganization of the HR personnel files. This project was a massive undertaking, but Labiano tackled it with dedication, streamlining the filing system to improve both accessibility and compliance. Thanks to her efforts, the HR department now functions more efficiently, saving valuable time and resources. Labiano also takes great initiative when it comes to supporting HR related tasks. She steps in to assist with tasks such as distributing pay stubs and paychecks, getting signatures that paychecks were received. This proactive approach has been a tremendous help. She provides invaluable support to substitute teachers, ensuring they have all the materials and information they need to succeed. This attention to detail and commitment to helping others ensures that substitutes are well-prepared for each assignment, which directly contributes to a positive learning environment for students.

“I’m grateful to be part of a team that makes a meaningful impact on our school community.”

Ximena Luna-Parra

Godinez Fundamental High School

As a family and community engagement liaison, Ximena Luna-Parra helps facilitate parent workshops, runs a food pantry and closet for those in need, coordinates a parent volunteer program at the site and supports parents in learning programs like Aeries and Parent Square so they are better connected to the school. She is upbeat and positive, and her smile is one that faculty, students and parents have come to expect and appreciate as she compassionately and with dedication offers her support to everyone. Luna-Parra is gentle but strong, kind but clear, and parents and students know that she will help them with whatever they need. She has created a positive environment and a safe space in the Wellness Center and has worked extremely hard to create a community with parents, most of whom primarily speak Spanish and see her as a true bridge between them and the school.

“Godinez and SAUSD have been my home since I was a student, and now, getting to give back to the families, students and staff that shaped me is the most rewarding thing ever.”

Stacey Martinez

Red Hill Lutheran School

Stacey Martinez has been a dedicated paraeducator at Red Hill Lutheran School (RHLS) for over a decade, and she is far more than an exceptional employee — she’s a deeply respected, compassionate and indispensable member of the community. Known lovingly as “Steady Stacey,” her consistent dedication and positive spirit make her a treasured asset to students, parents, teachers and staff alike. Martinez’s influence begins early each morning, as she welcomes students during the car line with a warm smile, setting a positive tone for the day. Her reliability and commitment to RHLS shine as she moves seamlessly between various roles and classrooms. Working primarily with kindergarten through second grade, she supports teachers by preparing materials, assisting with classroom organization and leading small-group lessons. Whether she’s helping students with reading, math or technology, Martinez’s calm demeanor and patience inspire confidence in her students, who feel comfortable seeking her out for encouragement and advice.

“It is such a privilege to work with so many amazing people. This award is something I will always treasure.”

Grace Masterson

Servite High School

Grace Masterson’s passion for Servite is evident in everything she does. She consistently serves as a proud ambassador for the school, ensuring that both prospective and current members of the community fully understand and appreciate what makes Servite such a unique and special place. Her unwavering commitment to upholding the school’s traditions and values stems from her deep knowledge of the mission. This dedication drives her efforts to promote and embody Servite’s core principles, fostering a sense of unity and purpose throughout the community. When Masterson adopts new strategies or implements changes, she does so with careful thought and a deep respect for the Servite tradition. Her approach reflects her commitment to maintaining the integrity of the school’s mission while ensuring that practices continue to meet the needs of the evolving community. Her leadership strikes a perfect balance between honoring the past and embracing the future, which has helped Servite flourish under her guidance.

“I am grateful to be a part of preparing our students for the future and helping them to become the men God calls them to be.”

Chelsea Maxwell

Laguna Hills High School

Chelsea Maxwell embodies the essence of a true educator and leader. For the past 10 years, she has served as the activity director and assistant principal at Laguna Hills High School, where her impact on students is nothing short of extraordinary. As a guiding force for her ASB students, Maxwell sets high expectations and fosters a culture of respect and encouragement. She believes in her students wholeheartedly, treating each one with kindness and understanding. It’s no wonder that they hold her in the highest regard. Her unwavering dedication to creating a positive school climate has transformed Laguna Hills HS into a vibrant community where students eagerly engage in activities and embrace school spirit. This past year, Laguna Hills faced an unimaginable tragedy with the sudden passing of the beloved principal just two weeks before graduation. In those difficult moments, Maxwell stepped up with grace and resilience, leading the school through finals, senior activities and the graduation ceremony itself.

“My students bring so much light and positivity to the world and it is an honor to work with them every day.”

Ann-Jeanette (AJ) McAlexander

Oxford Preparatory Academy Middle School

AJ McAlexander embodies the heart and soul of the school community. From the moment the first families arrive on campus, McAlexander is there, greeting parents with a warm smile and ensuring students feel welcomed and safe. Her unwavering dedication to supervision — before and after school, at breaks and during lunch — creates a sense of security and care that sets the tone for the day. When the office faced staffing challenges, McAlexander seamlessly stepped in to cover as both office manager and registrar, demonstrating her versatility and commitment to the school’s success. Her efforts ensured the smooth operation of essential administrative tasks, all while maintaining her cheerful demeanor and never missing an opportunity to connect with students and staff. McAlexander is the epitome of school spirit, living and breathing the traditions that make OPA Middle School special. Her integral role in establishing and supporting the new middle school has been nothing short of extraordinary.

“This recognition reminds me that true fulfillment comes from brightening someone’s day and building meaningful connections, not from status or job titles.”