Each year, San Diego Unified honors its classified employees during Classified School Employees Week, which is designated by the California Legislature each May.
Classified employees are those without teaching credentials and include custodians, office support staff, classroom assistants, and central office staff and managers. San Diego Unified has honored its classified employees every year since 1983.
2011 Classified Employee of the Year
Robin Hoffpauir
Expediter
Strategic Sourcing and Contracts Department
If you asked anyone involved in purchasing with the district who to call on for help, Robin Hoffpauir would undoubtedly be the first name mentioned. Over her 23-year career, Robin has developed into a vital figure for the district, working in the Strategic Sourcing and Contracts Department. According to her colleagues, she consistently works with an optimistic attitude and is able to overcome any issues that come up. She has been described as "someone who genuinely cares about the other person's issues as if they were the only ones she ever worked with."
Hoffpauir is admired for her problem solving skills and is seen as the "go-to person" when it comes to any procurement, financial, inventory or budget issue. However, she is most recognized for her work ethic and dedication to serving students, teachers, staff and community.
"There is no one at the district more committed to the success of district students and teachers," says Contract Specialist John Groll. "Through Robin's stellar leadership, many projects in danger of failing or falling by the wayside have come to a successful conclusion. Every day, through her above and beyond commitment to excellence, district students are achieving their goals."
San Diego Unified congratulates Robin Hoffpauir and her family on her selection as 2011 Classified Employee of the Year.
Runner Up
Charles James
Instructional Behavior Technician
Morse High School
Charles James is an instructional behavior technician who works with Special Education students at Samuel F.B. Morse High School. He also serves as the Junior Varsity head football coach as well as the track and field coach. He provides mentorship to his students and athletes by exhibiting the unique leadership qualities and skills he is known for:
"I am honored to have known Charles James for the past five years. Although Charles is an instructional behavior technician in General Education classes, he takes the initiative to modify the class instruction materials and resources so that students with special needs are also able to access required information. He has prepared and taught lessons with extensive utilization of imaginative and creative ways to meet students' needs. He would be a tremendous asset to any school and community."
Tai L. Oliver, Instructor
Morse High School
"In the five years that I have known Charles, he has demonstrated an unparalleled commitment to everything he has undertaken. He has placed emphasis on scholastic achievement for all students with whom he comes in contact. A self-starter, his example always serves to motivate others. However, his ability to affect the lives of others extends well beyond the academic arena."
Erma Delancy, Instructor
Morse High School