Sonia Garcia named 2025 Yolo County Classified Employee of the Year

WOODLAND JOINT UNIFIED SCHOOL DISTRICT

From left to right; WJUSD Superintendent Elodia Ortega-Lampkin, Maria De Mora, Sonia Garcia, and Board President Deborah Bautista Zavala. Both De Mora and Garcia were recognized by the Board of Trustees on May 1 for being named the WJUSD Classified Employees of the Year. Garcia was also named the Yolo County Classified Employee of the Year in the Clerical and Administrative Services category. COURTESY

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Sonia Garcia, an Administrative Secretary II at Woodland High School, has been named the 2025 Classified School Employee of the Year (CSEY) for Yolo County in the Clerical and Administrative Services category.

Each year, Woodland Joint Unified School District and other districts participate in the statewide Classified School Employees of the Year program, which honors the dedication and contributions of classified school staff throughout California. The Yolo County Office of Education (YCOE) identifies top candidates from various job classifications in Yolo County school districts.

Garcia was selected for her outstanding work and commitment to supporting students and staff at Woodland High School. Garcia was one of two employees nominated by WJUSD this year, alongside Maria De Mora, a Custodian II at Science and Technology Academy (Sci-Tech). Both were recognized by the WJUSD Board of Trustees on May 1 for being named the WJUSD Classified Employees of the Year.

“I was very surprised to hear that I received this award,” Garcia said. “I would like to thank my colleagues, my students, and the people who have supported me. It is a great honor, and I feel very much appreciated.”

Garcia began her career at Woodland High School in 2000 as a Campus Safety Coordinator and transitioned to the Administrative Secretary II role in 2018. This year marks her 25th year with WJUSD.

“I love working with students and seeing their growth over the years,” Garcia said. “Some students have a great attitude, some are funny and make me laugh. This is why I like working in education—because of the students.”

In her current role, Garcia supports school operations while maintaining a strong connection with students. Her office often becomes a space for students to reset, reflect, and feel heard.

“There is no normal day for me, “Garcia said. “Every day is different. I’m continuously surprised by our students’ ability to thrive in tough situations. No matter what they face, some just have a positive attitude.”

Both Garcia and Maria De Mora will be recognized at the Yolo County Excellence in Education Awards ceremony on Sept. 29.

“We are proud to see Sonia recognized at the county level for the important role she plays in our district,” said Superintendent Elodia Ortega-Lampkin. “Her daily work reflects a genuine care for students, and her ability to connect with and support them makes a lasting difference in their lives.”