Leslie Pozo

Music Teacher - Shaw Montessori

Mr. Pozo always shows unfailing dedication, support, passion, and persistence. He goes above and beyond every day for his students. He holds his students accountable, and they consistently rise to his high standards. Some of the words used to describe Mr. Pozo are kind, caring, and exceptional.

Patricia Karnes

Media Clerk - Shaw Montessori

Ms. Karnes cares deeply about exposing children to quality literature and makes the media center a place they look forward to coming to. She consistently crafts wonderful opportunities for the children by creating a vibrant and engaging learning environment. She helps out whenever and wherever she is needed and is the go-to person for technology support and all things digital. She wears many hats and does each job flawlessly. Some of the many words used to describe Patti are creative, reliable, knowledgeable, and organized.

Kelly Adler

Self-contained Autism Teacher - Emerson

Kelly always goes above and beyond for her students, and she provides them with a safe, comfortable, and happy environment. Her planning and organizing have a positive impact on the lives of her students and help them grow in ways that will help them reach their full potential. She is an active member of the PTO, Student Council, and life-skills S.U.N. store. Some of the words used to describe Kelly are caring, supportive, responsible, and amazing!

Cristina Rivera-Contreras

Lead Custodian - Emerson

Cristina goes above and beyond each day and is always willing to help where needed. She is very responsible and supportive and you will always find her with a smile on her face. Some of the many words used to describe Cristina are dedicated, generous, kind, caring, and collaborative. 

Rosa Vargas

Preschool Teacher - Kenilworth (former Kenilworth student working at Kenilworth since 2007)

Ms. Vargas is a dedicated and passionate teacher who shapes the minds of our youngest learners – preschool! She provides a high-quality experience for our students, empowers each family, and ensures they are deeply connected to the preschool classroom community. We are proud to celebrate all Ms. Vargas does to build strong foundations for our students! The three words used to describe Rosa are dedicated, passionate, and exceptional.

Victoria Lazo

1st Grade Teacher - Kenilworth (former Kenilworth student working at Kenilworth since 2023)

Ms. Lazo is doing an incredible job with her 1st-grade class. As a second-year teacher, the growth she has shown in all areas of her instruction is remarkable. Her willingness to ask questions, seek help, request feedback, and reflect on her practice is truly paying off—and it shows in the amazing work she is doing with her students. The relationships she has built with both parents and students are fantastic, and we all just love having her as part of our team! The three words used to describe Victoria are courageous, dedicated, and reflective.

Cindy Garcia

ESS Instructional Assistant - Kenilworth (former Kenilworth student working at Kenilworth since 2021)

Cindy is a calm, compassionate, and nurturing support to our young students. She gently guides and supports them in academics, life skills, and social-emotional regulation. She seeks out and magnifies the best in every child and graciously and patiently meets each one where they are. Always joyful and kind, we are lucky to have her brightly shining light on our campus! The three words used to describe Cindy are compassionate, nurturing, and exemplary.

Karen Galindo

Preschool Instructional Assistant - Kenilworth (former Kenilworth student working at Kenilworth since 2024)

Ms. Galindo is not only a former student of Kenilworth School and a current team member, but she is also the mother to one of our Kinder students and a sister to one of our 7th-grade students. Every day Ms. Galindo welcomes the preschool students and their families into the building. Many families have made comments about her smile each day as being what they needed to see as they leave their 4-year-old inside the school. The range of flexibility to offer help to everyone is large. Our school benefits from having Ms. Galindo as part of it with us. The three words used to describe Karen are inspiring, friendly, and helpful.

Gerardo Romo

1st Grade Teacher - Herrera School for the Arts

If you know Mr. Romo you know he is a person who goes out of his way to make everyone feel welcome at Herrera. He has a cheerful outlook, a big friendly smile, and is always willing to help in any way he can. He also does an excellent job communicating with our parents. He has a genuine connection with all of his students and his former students go by his classroom just to say hello. Mr. Romo is an excellent coworker! Some of the many words used to describe Gerardo are team player, positive, community-focused, joyful, and welcoming.

Angelica Marquez

Instructional Assistant - Herrera School for the Arts

Angelica is a team player who goes above and beyond and is always willing to help others in any way that she can. Students love working with Ms. Marquez because she is a helpful, kind, and warm-hearted person. Some of the many words used to describe Angelica are motivated, empathetic, fair, organized, and team-player.

Manuel Penunuri, Plumber - Plant Services ST.A.R. Award August

Manuel is a hardworking and dedicated member of the Phoenix #1 family. His efficiency and positive attitude shine through in every task he takes on, and he’s always ready to help when needed. Known for being dedicated, hard-working, and pleasant, Manuel's commitment is deeply valued across the district.

Agustin Machuca, Warehouse Clerk - Plant Services S.T.A.R. Award August

Agustin consistently puts his team first, offering help wherever it’s needed. He takes joy in solving problems and is all about teamwork. His colleagues admire him for being humble, generous, and a true team player. With his dependable and friendly approach, Agustin makes a lasting impact in Plant Services.

Irene Andrade, CN Worker II - Child Nutrition S.T.A.R. Award August

Irene’s commitment to her role in the Child Nutrition Department and to Phoenix #1 is unwavering. Whether preparing meals or assisting a coworker, she brings a friendly and hardworking spirit to every task. She is appreciated for being friendly, hard-working, and brilliant, always ensuring the job gets done with care and excellence.