Classified Employee of the Year

After competing against a pool of highly-qualified nominees, Melito Ramirez, Intervention Specialist at Walla Walla High School, has been named 2020 Regional Classified Employee of the Year by Educational Service District (ESD) 123. As Intervention Specialist, Mr. Ramirez works with high school students struggling with issues of substance abuse, mental health, and more, as well as building connections with their families and the community, in order to provide them with the support and resources they need to succeed.

The Classified School Employee of the Year program recognizes excellence in the work of public school employees, including paraprofessionals, secretaries, custodians, food service workers, and others. Anyone may nominate a classified public school employee for this award, which is overseen by the Office of Superintendent of Public Instruction (OSPI). All completed nominations are sent to the regional coordinator at each ESD, who in turn selects a regional winner. Mr. Ramirez is one of nine regional winners who will go on to compete for the State Classified Employee of the Year award.

Mr. Ramirez has worked in education for over 40 years and has been at Walla Walla High School since 2007. Each letter written to recommend Mr. Ramirez for nomination recognizes his ability to build strong relationships with students and their parents, opening clear and honest dialogues in order to determine root problems and find solutions. Whether it is supporting struggling students, serving as advisor for the Latino Club, or organizing an adult evening school program for community members to learn English or Spanish, he puts the needs of his students and community first.

“Watching [students] walk at graduation knowing all of the struggle they overcame makes it all worthwhile,” says Mr. Ramirez, “…It prepares me for the next year and the challenges that come with it.”

ESD 123 is proud to have Melito Ramirez represent our region for this year’s award. His leadership, relationship-building, and impact on the community exemplifies the qualities of a State Classified Employee of the Year.