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For their outstanding dedication and work, three Tri-Valley school employees have been honored by the Alameda County Office of Education, receiving 2023 Classified Employee of the Year awards.
Staff recognized by Alameda County were selected from each school district’s respective Classified Employee of the Year winners in multiple categories based on job types. District winners who demonstrated extreme excellence were then highlighted for their work at the county level.
Out of the 18 total districts in the county, two staff members from Dublin Unified School District and one from Livermore Valley Joint Unified School District were recognized.
Sean Adams, head custodian of Dublin Elementary School, has worked at the school site for 12 years. Adams received the countywide Custodial and Maintenance Services award for an outstanding attitude and commitment to school needs.
When describing Adams in a statement, district staff said, “he goes above and beyond in his work and engages with students, staff and parents with a smile.”
Staff said out of a student body of 800, Adams knows each one by name.
“He is quick to address the concerns of staff and students,” the statement added. “His positive demeanor brightens everyone’s day. His proactive actions help provide a safe and functional environment for staff and students.”
Aside from maintenance duties, Adams also helps out by teaching girls’ basketball.
Laura Larsen was DUSD’s second classified employee to be honored by Alameda County, in the Health and Student Services category. Larsen has worked as a health services assistant for 10 years at Frederiksen Elementary School.
Larsen was praised by staff for her care of students with injuries or illness.
“She is always willing to help any student or staff member at Frederiksen Elementary School,” staff said in a statement. “Her friendliness to visitors is noteworthy in helping to meet their needs or answer their questions.”
“(Larsen’s) collaborative approach to working with colleagues, teachers, families, and administration has made her an asset to the Frederiksen school community,” staff added.
From LVJUSD, Carmen Perea-Tellez was honored as the county’s top paraprofessional. Perea-Tellez, who also earned statewide recognition this year, provides support as a bilingual instructional aide, assisting in various English language development (ELD) and English learner (EL) programs.
Staff noted that Perea-Tellez often goes above and beyond to support the students and teachers she works with.
“Carmen has greatly enhanced the support provided to EL students at Livermore High School, and her efforts are having an impact throughout the district and community,” LHS staff said. “She works with teachers to help in translating assignments and handouts for EL students and with academic counselors to build students’ schedules with the goal of better academic outcomes for all EL students.”
Alameda County Superintendent of Schools Alysse Castro honored the employees further in a statement.
“I am excited to recognize the 2023 Alameda County Classified Employees of the Year whose exemplary work supports Alameda County schools everyday,” Castro said. “These honorees are undeniably committed and go above and beyond to make sure students have what they need to be successful. Their essential roles ensure students have healthy meals, reliable transportation, and safe campuses that create conditions where students can thrive.”
Other countywide winners were Cecilia Franco, Martha Flores and Belinda Campbell from Oakland Unified School District, Tiong Tan of Fremont Unified School District, Theodore Bently of New Haven Unified School District and Debbie Rose of Castro Valley Unified School District.
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Laura Larsen of Frederiksen Elementary was honored by Alameda County for her professional dedication. Larsen has worked on the school site as a health services assistant for 10 years. (Image courtesy DUSD) -
Sean Adams has worked at Dublin Elementary for 12 years. Adams was recognized for outstanding work by the Alameda County 2023 Classified Employee of the Year awards. (Image courtesy DUSD)
