​SAN JOSE, CA – The Santa Clara County Office of Education (SCCOE) announced and celebrated the Santa Clara County 2026 Classified School Employees of the Year at the Santa Clara County Board of Education meeting on June 3.

Honorees were selected for each of the nine service categories: clerical and administrative, custodial and maintenance, food and nutrition, health and student services, paraprofessional, security, skilled trades, technical, and transportation. 

“Classified employees care deeply about the students and communities they serve, and it shows in everything they do,” said Dr. David M. Toston, Sr., County Superintendent of Schools. “It’s meaningful work that is seen, valued, and makes a lasting impact.”

Classified school employees support the education and school systems of California’s more than six million public school students in grades pre-kindergarten through 12. The program honors exceptional classified employees who create and sustain a welcoming, safe, and effective learning environment every day. From paraprofessionals, school bus drivers, and cafeteria workers to others, these employees play key roles in supporting learners throughout the county. 

The nine Santa Clara County winners and their corresponding nomination categories and districts are as follows:

 

​SAN JOSE, CA – More than 1,000 students in Santa Clara County were awarded the California State Seal of Civic Engagement, a recognition established by the California Department of Education to honor students who demonstrated a strong understanding of civic responsibility and an ongoing commitment to positively impacting their communities. More than 100 students received their medal in front of a standing-room-only crowd at the Civic Engagement Student Recognition Ceremony on May 18 at the Santa Clara County Office of Education. 

“The students’ work reminds everyone that civic engagement isn’t something that starts in adulthood,” said County Superintendent of Schools, Dr. David M. Toston, Sr. “It starts when you see the power you hold to do something greater than yourself.” 

The State Seal of Civic Engagement engages youth as active partners in school and community change; supports youth in developing effective communication and working together in more equitable ways; encourages youth to participate in civics education and support our democracy; and empowers youth to become strong collaborators for educational change. 

Below is a table that captures the number of state seals awarded to students in their respective districts for the 2025-26 school year: 

 For information about the California State Seal of Civic Engagement, please visit https://sccoe.to/SSCE​  ​