Governor Steve Sisolak’s Office, in partnership with the Nevada Department of Education (NDE), announced today that the application period for the Nevada Recognizing Inspirational School Employees (RISE) Award has opened. Nominations will be accepted until October 11, 2020.

This new federal award, approved by Congress in 2019 and overseen by the U.S. Department of Education (USED), honors classified school employees who provide exemplary service. A classified school employee can be someone who works in pre-Kindergarten, elementary, middle, or high school settings in any of the following occupational specialties: paraprofessional, clerical and administrative services, transportation services, food and nutrition services, custodial and maintenance services, security services, health and student services, technical services, and skilled trades. NDE will consider nominations submitted by local educational agencies, school administrators, professional associations, labor organizations, educational service agencies, non-profit entities, parents, and students.

“Now more than ever, it is so very important to honor outstanding school employees for their dedication and commitment in service to our children and communities,” said Governor Steve Sisolak. “Exceptional school employees could never receive enough praise for the work they do, which is vitally important to providing Nevada students with the support they need to reach their goals. This award is just one way to let them know they are appreciated.”

“School staff are critical to creating and maintaining safe, healthy, and welcoming environments for students, educators, and families,” said Jhone Ebert, State Superintendent of Public Instruction. “Classified employees are the engine that keeps our education system running, and we are grateful for their unwavering service and dedication to supporting our State’s most important asset: our children.”

Nominees must demonstrate excellence in the following areas: work performance; school and community involvement; leadership and commitment; local support (from co-workers, school administrators, community members, etc., who speak to the nominee’s exemplary work); and enhancement of classified school employees’ image in the community and schools.

NDE will submit five finalists to Governor Sisolak’s office for consideration. The Governor will then submit up to two nominations to the U.S. Department of Education to be considered for the RISE Award that will be announced in Spring 2021.

To nominate a classified employee for the 2021 RISE Award, please complete this Google Form by October 11, 2020.

Please contact KellyLynn Charles, Education Programs Professional at NDE, kcharles@doe.nv.gov with questions or for assistance with nominations.

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