Banning Unified School District proudly hosted its annual Employee Recognition and Retirement Ceremony on Friday, April 11, 2025, at the Morongo Golf Club. This special event honored the dedication, service, and outstanding contributions of staff members from across the District.
The celebration was made possible by the Human Resources Department, which organized the evening to recognize employees whose efforts continue to make a lasting impact on students and the school community. The program began with a welcome from Dr. Tonia Causey-Bush, Assistant Superintendent of Educational Services, and included a Superintendent Reflection by Terrence Davis. Assistant Superintendent of Human Resources Johnny Baker also took part in the program, providing recognition remarks for employees reaching career milestones and entering retirement.
“We are incredibly proud of the people who make our District a thriving learning environment,” said Superintendent Terrence Davis. “Each of tonight’s honorees has played a unique and valuable role in the lives of our students and school communities. Their dedication, compassion, and professionalism exemplify the heart of public education.”
Following dinner, honorees from across the District were recognized for excellence in their roles, significant years of service, and their contributions over the course of their careers.
Classified Employees of the Year
Each of these individuals was selected by their school site for consistently demonstrating dedication, reliability, and a strong commitment to supporting students and staff.
Elizabeth Carreon – Banning High School
Erika Guzman – Coombs Alternative Education
Michelle Salazar – Nicolet Middle School
Monica Quinones Arias – Hoffer Elementary
Kristen Reynolds – Hemmerling Elementary
Guadalupe Garcia – Central Elementary
Jennifer Ysiano – Cabazon Elementary
Candy Thurmond – Florida Street Discovery Center
Certificated Employees of the Year
These educators have been honored by their peers for their excellence in instruction, positive influence on campus, and unwavering dedication to student growth and achievement.
Erica Reyes – Banning High School
Roman Aja – Coombs Alternative Education
Michele Downard – Nicolet Middle School
Annelise Cook – Hoffer Elementary
Abilene Perez – Hemmerling Elementary
Nora McFarland – Central Elementary
Juanita Crews – Cabazon Elementary
Rebecca Schwartz – Florida Street Discovery Center
Educators of the Year
Recognized at the District level, these outstanding professionals have gone above and beyond in their roles, modeling leadership, innovation, and a deep commitment to educational excellence.
Carolina Juarez – District Office Classified of the Year (Human Resources)
Hugo Cortez – District Office Classified of the Year (Maintenance & Operations)
Michelle Faulkner – Site Support of the Year (Student Services)
Nancy Perez – Confidential Employee of the Year (Human Resources)
Victor Herrera – Classified Administrator of the Year (Business Services)
Matthew Beilstein – Counselor of the Year (Banning High School)
Anna Torres – Certificated Administrator of the Year (Banning High School)
Colette Burgess – Principal of the Year (Florida Street Discovery Center)
Years of Service Honorees
These employees have reached significant milestones in their careers, and their continued service is a testament to their loyalty and devotion to the students and families of Banning USD.
20 Years
| 25 Years
|
30 Years
| 35 Years
|
2025 Retirees
Banning USD proudly honored this year's retirees for their years of service and lasting contributions to the District. These individuals have helped shape generations of students and leave behind a meaningful legacy.
Gloria Davis – Food Service Worker, Central Elementary
Lawrence Curry – Warehouse Person, Maintenance & Operations
Paul Vaccarello – Maintenance Worker, Maintenance & Operations
Joanne Lamas – Technician III, Fiscal Services
Lorraine Lara – Yard Duty, Hemmerling Elementary
Rosanna Martinez – Bilingual Instructional Aide, Central Elementary
Frank Montano – School Security Officer, Nicolet Middle School
Janelle Poulter – Counselor, Banning High School
James Nakakihara – Teacher, Coombs Alternative Education
Ronnie Stevens – Teacher, Hoffer Elementary
Shannon Sheldon – Teacher, Hoffer Elementary
Elizabeth Mayagoitia – Teacher, Banning High School
Banning Unified School District extends its heartfelt congratulations and deepest gratitude to all honorees for their remarkable contributions. The District remains committed to celebrating those who make a difference every day in the lives of students, staff, and the greater community.
To view photos from the event, visit:
https://banning-usd.smugmug.com/2024-2025/April-Events/Employee-Recognition-Dinner
View Official Release at: https://www.banning.k12.ca.us/page/community-corner