2018 Classified Employees of the Year

It was a celebration that had people dancing in the aisles as the district honored the countless contributions of its classified employees at the 2018 Classified Employee of the Year event.

Barbara Buchanan, school clerk at Point Loma High School, was named Classified Employee of the Year, and Rebecca Cisneros from Early Childhood Special Education and Euclid CDC, was named runner up. 

“Barbara is a consummate team player and a key element in what makes Point Loma High School one of the best schools in the district,” said colleague Eric Brown. “Her work ethic, creation of a hospitable and welcoming environment for our Point Loma community, and her ability to take charge when needed sets her apart from others.” 

Barbara Buchanan Tribute Video
Event photos

Both Buchanan and Cisneros have each been with the district for more than 30 years. 

“Rebecca is a passionate employee who cares about all students and their well-being and demonstrates considerable care for her colleagues,” said CDC Program Manager Melissa Roy. “Rebecca’s commitment to education, servant leadership and her desire to be actively involved in positive change for a school or district makes her the ideal employee.”

More than 350 employees and their families attended the annual celebration held at Patrick Henry High School. Both Buchanan and Cisneros were recognized on stage, as were more than 75 site classified honorees, who had the opportunity to come up on stage to say their names and work site. Presidents from each of the employee groups presented Buchanan and Cisneros with gifts, and praised the efforts of all classified staff throughout the district. 

Entertainment was provided by the Fat Shirley Band, whose bass player was event host and former San Diego Unified classified employee, Herschel Johnson. The band had attendees dancing in the aisles.

Piatt Pund, sophomore at Mission Bay High School, performed the National Anthem.

Guests were also treated to a raffle, courtesy of event sponsors California Coast Credit Union, the Standard, Mission Federal Credit Union and Elivelife.com. 

Prior to the formal ceremony, the district hosted a reception featuring appetizers and desserts prepared by students from San Diego Unified's award-winning culinary arts programs at Mira Mesa and San Diego high schools. The Gypsy Jazz Quartet from Mission Bay High School provided music. 

The event was made possible with the help of these generous sponsors: Diamond sponsor California Schools VEBA, and silver sponsors Mission Federal Credit Union, California Coast Credit Union, The Standard and eLiveLife.com.

Site Classified Employee of the Year Honorees: