The Sunnyvale School District proudly announces our 2024-2025 Employees of the Year!
Classified Employee of the Year: Marcelino Ramirez Gutierrez – Fairwood Explorer Elementary School
Marcelino gets to know the students at Fairwood, and he offers a friendly greeting to everyone. He takes the time to talk to students and staff, even when his day is busy. When he notices a student who appears to be unhappy, he connects with them. He understands that students who are new to our school need a welcoming face and a warm heart. He also knows that for our newcomer students, they can face an added barrier of not being able to readily communicate with their peers and teachers. For our newcomer Spanish speaking students, Marcelino takes the time to welcome them and engage them in their native language so they know they have an ally they can go to for support. He also speaks to the classroom teacher or the front office team to ensure the student gets the support they may need. He exudes joy and compassion. doesn’t exhibit joy, not because he has to; he does it because he genuinely cares about our school and our community. He has an infectious smile that he freely shares with students, staff, and families. Students are eager to greet Marcelino each day, and they are always willing to lend him a helping hand. He maintains a high standard for keeping the school well maintained, and he always makes sure that work is completed in a thorough and precise manner, and he always takes pride in his work. When a problem arises with the school facilities, he is always willing to help lend his expertise and ingenuity to reach resolution.
At a family participation school, Marcelino knows that the partnership between school and families is critical to our programs. Because of this, he is always willing to help families as they prepare for and put together events for our school community.
Marcelino’s commitment to his role and the care he puts into maintaining the school makes him an indispensable part of the team. Marcelino is appreciated by all members of the school community for his commitment to creating an inclusive and nurturing environment.
Congratulations to all the nominees:
- Jacob Rodriguez, Bishop Elementary
- Komalben Patel, Cherry Chase Elementary
- Daniel De Franco, Columbia Middle
- Anjali Tewari, Cumberland Elementary
- Gina Srabian, Ellis Elementary
- Elvia Gutierrez, Iowa Campus
- Jorge Martinez, Iowa Operations
- Quynh Tran, Lakewood Elementary
- Joana-Lee Alamo, Preschool
- Giuliana Herrera, San Miguel Elementary
- Julie Melville, Sunnyvale Middle
- Alice Alexander, Vargas Elementary
Teacher of the Year: Jennifer Taylor-Smith – Cherry Chase Elementary School
Jennifer is a dedicated advocate for our students, creating a warm, engaging classroom where they feel included and valued. She fosters confidence and independence through meaningful growth opportunities, thoughtfully differentiating lessons for diverse needs. Ms. Taylor-Smith tirelessly accommodates her students, collaborates effectively with colleagues, and maintains a positive attitude, making her classroom a delightful place to learn. She creatively highlights student strengths and goes the extra mile to ensure they feel valued. She supports her special education team with resources and camaraderie, bringing everyone together in a field often marked by isolation. She makes learning hands-on and enjoyable, facilitating interactions between her students and general education peers. Her commitment and cheerful demeanor show her love for teaching, making her a valuable asset to Cherry Chase and her students.
Congratulations to all the nominees:
- Susan Gendel, Bishop Elementary
- Gigi Swan, Columbia Middle
- Erin Berry, Cumberland Elementary
- Stephanie Young, Ellis Elementary
- Sharon Stephanou, Fairwood Explorer
- Sreelatha Ponnuveettil, Preschool
- Nancy Tran, Lakewood Elementary
- Terri Choate, San Miguel Elementary
- Charles Ancheta, Sunnyvale Middle
- Jasmine Rodriguez, Vargas Elementary
Management Team Member of the Year: Stephanie Malcolm
Stephanie is a fantastic nominee for Sunnyvale School District Management Team Member of the Year! The dedicated and compassionate Assistant Principal at Ellis School, Stephanie understands that caring for students is fundamental to a just and equitable learning environment, truly embodying the Sunnyvale Promise.
An experienced administrator with over 14 years in the District, Stephanie successfully served as Assistant Principal at Sunnyvale Middle School for six years. In addition, her journey began as a substitute special education para-educator and evolved through roles as an SDC Teacher, Resource Specialist, and Instructional Coach all in Sunnyvale. This diverse experience informs her deep understanding of our students’ and staff’s needs.
This year, Stephanie seamlessly stepped in to support the entire Ellis community, becoming a vital partner to Principal Stephanie. Her deep district knowledge and exceptional ability to connect with people have enriched the entire school community.
Stephanie is Sunnyvale to the core, her unwavering passion for our students and district evident in all she does. We proudly recognize Stephanie for her profound impact on the lives of our students and staff.
Congratulations to all the nominees:
- Laurie Carlson, Principal Cumberland Elementary
- Vince Iwasaki, Principal Sunnyvale Middle School
- Daniel Poo, Principal Columbia Middle School
- Rachelle Romander, Principal Fairwood Explorer
Retirees
Congratulations to those listed below for their years of service and dedication to the Sunnyvale School District who will retire at the end of the year. We appreciate you and will miss you!
- Frances Angeles, 7 years
- Satpal Bhele, 18 years
- Terri Choate, 39 years
- Laura Di Pol, 7 years
- Barbara Foster, 17 years
- Margarite Galvan, 23 years
- Dr. Michael Gallagher, 16 years
- Susan Gendel, 28 years
- Katherine Kanagawa, 15 years
- Jhuma Kanungo, 21 years
- Judith Kingsley, 1 year
- Sheila McKell, 29 years
- Donald Pearson, 21 years
- Susan Pereira, 24 years
- Heidi Perera-Switzer, 26 years
- Lisa Rosen, 1 year
