SAUSD’s Patricia Mendez Named a Top Classified School Employee of the Year by Orange County Department of Education

Patricia Mendez, an activity monitor for the Santa Ana Unified School District, has been named a top classified school employee of the year by the Orange County Department of Education.

Mendez is one of nine Orange County Classified School Employees of the Year and is being recognized in the security services category.

Countywide winners were selected from among 61 district-level honorees, and are now eligible to compete for state honors. They will be formally celebrated during Classified School Employee Week, which begins May 16.

“Our classified staff members perform essential roles that contribute mightily to the health, safety and academic success of students,” Orange County Superintendent Dr. Al Mijares said. 

“This past year, the global pandemic presented extraordinary challenges for public education, yet it has also highlighted the ingenuity, creativity and dedication of exemplary school employees who more than met the moment to support schools, students and families throughout our county.”

Mendez has worked at SAUSD's Esqueda Elementary for 10 years, where she’s known on campus for her caring attitude and her ability to connect deeply with families. 

Most recently, Mendez has given hope to many Esqueda families during the COVID-19 pandemic by providing them with advice and support, keeping a supply of extra Chromebooks on hand for them to use and by arranging to have food delivered to their homes.

“We rarely come across truly special people like Mrs. Patty Mendez, but when you meet them they change your outlook on life,” said Kevin Tonai, principal of Esqueda. “I am proud to work by her side each and every day!”

To read more about Mendez and the other countywide winners, click here.