November 4, 2026

CARSON CITY, Nev. – Two classified school employees have been named winners of the Nevada Recognizing Inspiring School Employees (RISE) Award.

Theresa Ortega, a transportation instructor in the Clark County School District, and Melanie Subia, a paraprofessional in the Washoe County School District, were selected for the award.

“Strong schools are built by professionals who are committed to helping students succeed,” said Governor Joe Lombardo. “Theresa Ortega and Melanie Subia exemplify that commitment through their exceptional service, compassion, and dedication to student success. Their contributions make a lasting difference in the lives of Nevada’s students and families, and I’m proud to recognize their outstanding work as they represent our state on the national stage.”

The RISE Award, initiated by the U.S. Congress in 2019 and overseen by the U.S. Department of Education, honors classified school employees who provide outstanding service to students.

The awards program highlights the valuable contributions and crucial role of classified employees in schools.

“Classified employees go above and beyond every day to ensure that Nevada’s public-school students are supported,” said Dr. Victor Wakefield, Superintendent of Public Instruction. “Theresa and Melanie demonstrate passion, skill, and dedication in their roles. We are proud to have them represent Nevada for the national RISE Award.”

The three finalists for the RISE Award are:

• Rose Hanks, clerk at Escobedo Middle School (Clark County School District)

• Andrea Kelly, program coordinator for adult, corrections, distance, and alternative education (Humboldt County School District)

• Lorena Morgan, individual student aide at Doral Academy of Northern Nevada (State Public Charter School Authority)

The Governor’s Office chose two Nevada RISE awardees from a pool of five finalists selected through a rigorous nomination process facilitated by the Nevada Department of Education. The selection process was anonymous, with all identifying information redacted.

The Nevada RISE awardees now go on to apply to the U.S. Department of Education for the national RISE Award to be determined in spring 2027.

School staff eligible for the RISE Award include paraprofessionals, skilled trade professionals, and those who work in clerical and administrative, transportation, food and nutrition, custodial and maintenance, security, technical, and health and student services positions.

More about the Recipients

• Theresa Ortega, transportation instructor (Clark County School District)

Ortega began her career in the Clark County School District in 2012 as a school bus driver. She was promoted to transportation instructor in 2024. In the role, she plays an essential part in onboarding and retaining new drivers.

Ortega also represents the school district at back-to-school nights, safety demonstrations, and community events.

Ortega's nominator wrote that she sets high personal standards and encourages others to do the same. Administrators and coworkers also commend her for demonstrating a “calm, solution-oriented approach and her ability to connect with both staff and families.”

“Ms. Ortega models inclusivity in every aspect of her work,” the nominator wrote. “For example, when assigned to a school serving students who are deaf and hard of hearing, she took the initiative to learn American Sign Language to communicate effectively with all her students. Her actions embody excellence and compassion, setting a powerful example for others across the district.”

In her application, Ortega wrote: “My commitment to service is evident in how I build trust, promote collaboration, and contribute to a welcoming school culture. I approach every task with care, pride, and a focus on delivering results that exceed expectations. My performance directly contributes to measurable improvements, including stronger driver onboarding and retention, more efficient systems, and improved relationships with families.”

• Melanie Subia, paraprofessional at Bud Beasley Elementary School (Washoe County School District)

Subia’s nominator describes her as “far more than a classroom assistant” and “an invaluable part of our special education team.”

“Every day, she helps create a classroom environment built on love, acceptance, dignity, and respect,” according to the nomination. “She sees each student as an individual, celebrates their strengths, and makes sure every student feels valued, supported, and capable.”

Subia has a calm demeanor and compassion that are remarkable, and she anticipates student needs and adapts instruction in the moment, her nominator wrote.

“Mel exemplifies what exceptional support looks like: she doesn’t simply assist with teaching; she teaches, advocates, problem solves, and builds relationships,” according to the nomination. “Most importantly, she makes our classroom a place where every student knows they are loved and belong.”

In her application, Subia wrote: “I show up to work every day with excitement to assist, teach, and grow with my students. I am so lucky that I get to work with students who have a wide range of physical and cognitive abilities because each day brings something new! Showing up with a positive, enthusiastic mindset is one of my greatest strengths and I pride myself on my ability to meet my students on their level.”

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About the Nevada Department of Education

The Nevada Department of Education (NDE) leads and collaborates with Nevada’s 17 school districts and the State Public Charter School Authority to advance educational equity Statewide. With offices in Carson City and Las Vegas, NDE oversees all pre-K-12 education in the State, working to achieve its mission to improve student achievement and educator effectiveness by ensuring opportunities, facilitating learning, and promoting excellence. Under the leadership of the State Board of Education and the Superintendent of Public Instruction, NDE impacts the achievement of nearly half a million children and 30,000 educators. Learn more at https://doe.nv.gov/ and join us on X (formerly Twitter), Facebook and Instagram.