EMPLOYEES OF THE YEAR 2013-14 PRINCIPAL OF THE YEAR Dr. Spencer Holtom, Principal, San Jacinto Elementary School Dr. Holtom promotes a highly engaging and inviting academic environment for all students at SJE. He exhibits sincere support for students and staff, with a high level of trust, expectations, rigorous focus and fun! He implemented a formula for success in increasing the API significantly at his past three schools. Diane Perez, District Superintendent, states: “Dr. Holtom has moved the API from 734 in 2012-13 to an impressive 782. He instinctively knows how to build a team and focuses on the strengths of the staff and students in order to instill ownership, while constantly reinventing himself to make learning exciting for all.” Dr. Holtom was also chosen as the RIVERSIDE COUNTY PRINCIPAL OF THE YEAR!!! SJUSD is very proud to have Dr. Holtom as a vital part of our educational team.
EMPLOYEES OF THE YEAR 2013-14 CERTIFICATED ADMINISTRATOR OF THE YEAR
Dr. Vincent Record After School Education and Safety Coordinator, District Office Dr. Record has implemented a substantial academic component in the ASES Program, while monitoring and enhancing the educational and tutoring opportunities for students who are in the After School Program. He is a man of integrity who puts students and staff first, always offering to assist and problemsolve when needed. He is also highly skilled and committed to the District and community through his amazing dedication and hard work. Marianna Vinson, former SJUSD Assistant Superintendent of Educational Services states: “Dr. Record trains his staff in instructional strategies, always connecting back to our vision and mission as a District. He has received stellar reviews in his tracking and data collection for the ASES Program. He leads by example with honor and humility, giving of his time unselfishly.”
EMPLOYEES OF THE YEAR 2015 TEACHER OF THE YEAR
Hilda Alvarez Spanish Teacher, San Jacinto High Hilda Alvarez has been a teacher for 17 years, 8 of which have been in SJUSD. She strives to engage students in problem solving, critical thinking, and other activities that bring purposeful meaning in response to her instruction. Hilda provides essential survival skills by helping them to apply what they have learned, as well as instilling in them a love for learning, no matter what life path they choose. Principal Jordan Reeves, states, “Mrs. Alvarez is an excellent choice for District Teacher of the Year. I have been impressed with the quality of instruction in her classroom, as well as her classroom management skills. She builds a rapport with students, has high expectations of them and motivates them to work hard. She has also served as a valuable member of our site’s Leadership Team.”
EMPLOYEES OF THE YEAR 2015 TEACHER OF THE YEAR
Tamra “Tori” Gorosave English Language Arts Teacher, San Jacinto Leadership Academy “Tori” Gorosave has been a teacher in SJUSD for 14 years, including 3 years in her current position as an English Language Arts teacher at San Jacinto Leadership Academy. Tori has a wide range of teaching experience and training in middle school, including serving as a trainer for Thinking Maps, SJUSD RIGOR Committee and Common Core Units of Study. She relies heavily on data to track the progress of her students and always encourages the “why” questions from them, in order to promote higher order thinking and academic growth. Tori has a passion for literature, which she instills in her students. Commandant Col. Francis Sick, states, “Tori loves kids and understands how to connect with adolescents, conveying energy, clear and high expectations and with positive, respectful encouragement. She is a professional teacher whose positive impact is felt across out District.”
EMPLOYEES OF THE YEAR
2013-14 CERTIFICATED SUPPORT PERSON OF THE YEAR
Gregg Hillis District Counselor, District Office Gregg is a competent counselor and a man of strong character. He is passionate about supporting students 24/7 and always utilizes resources to most effectively meet the needs of students. Gregg selflessly serves the community to make a positive difference in SJUSD. Matt Hixson, Assistant Superintendent of Personnel states: “Gregg has an approachable demeanor that builds trust and confidence with families and staff. SJUSD is a better place for students because of the work Gregg does every day.”
EMPLOYEES OF THE YEAR 2013-14 CLASSIFIED ADMINISTRATOR OF THE YEAR
Seth Heeren Executive Director of Fiscal Services, Business Dept., District Office Seth is highly efficient and effective in his role in the Business Dept. He exhibits excellent communication skills (oral and written) to promote a highly confident team, while promoting the District’s mission of “Educating and Inspiring Excellence”. A truly competent leader, Seth always thinks of student success in his decision making for the department. Richard DeNava, Assistant Superintendent of Business states: “Seth presents a professional, enthusiastic and motivated approach to all things he is involved in, and has my highest regard in receiving this distinction of Classified Administrator of the Year.”
EMPLOYEES OF THE YEAR 2013-14 CONFIDENTIAL EMPLOYEE OF THE YEAR
Ruth Cox Confidential/Administrative Secretary, District Office Ruth is dedicated, organized and resourceful in meeting the demands of the Superintendent’s Office. She is multi-faceted, as she has worked in many departments and school sites, always assisting where needed. She embraces the use of technology and her expertise is apparent in the work she produces. Ruth is a wealth of knowledge in the District and the community and someone who can always be counted on to do a stellar job in project organization, meeting implementation and execution of detailed activities. She is a person of strong character and integrity as she promotes academic success for all students!
EMPLOYEES OF THE YEAR 2013-14 CONFIDENTIAL EMPLOYEE OF THE YEAR
Patty Watts Middle School Secretary, Monte Vista Middle School Patty is a person of high integrity and uses her exemplary professional skills to serve the students and staff and Monte Vista. She is dedicated and thoughtful, while paying strict attention to detail in her duties. She is a supportive presence in the school office, always putting the academic needs of students first in any tasks she does. Janet Covacevich, MVMS Principal, states: “Patty has a high work ethic and is the glue that holds Monte Vista together. She demonstrates a high level of customer service and will find the solution to a problem before referring to anyone else.”
