Annual Staff Recognitions for 2025-2026
Posted on 08/01/2025
As part of the district’s ongoing efforts to celebrate and recognize the exceptional work of our staff, administration recommends the District join organizations across the nation to celebrate the following staff recognitions. These celebrations provide a unique opportunity to highlight our educators' and staff members' contributions to student success and community engagement.
October 2, 2025 – National Custodian Appreciation Day
On National Custodian Appreciation Day we recognize and express gratitude for the hard work and dedication of custodial staff. Custodians play a vital role in keeping our schools clean, safe, and welcoming for students, staff, and the entire school community. Their contributions are essential to the daily operations of our schools and deeply valued throughout the district.
October 13-17, 2025 – National School Lunch Week
National School Lunch Week (NSLW) highlights the importance of a healthy school lunch in a child’s life and its positive impact both in and out of the classroom. It is also a time to recognize and thank our incredible Child Nutrition team, who serve over 1 million free meals each school year. Through fun, creative, and nutritious menu offerings, they help encourage lifelong healthy eating habits for all students.
October 12-18, 2025 – Week of the School Administrator
Week of the School Administrator is a time to honor and recognize the outstanding leadership of our nine (9) principals and ten (10) vice principals across Santee School District. These dedicated individuals work tirelessly to provide exceptional educational leadership, foster positive school climates, and support the success of students and staff. The Executive Council joins the Board of Education in expressing deep appreciation for the passion, commitment, and invaluable contributions our school site leaders bring to public education.
February 2-6, 2026 – National School Counseling Week
National School Counseling Week focuses public attention on the unique and vital contributions of school counselors within our school system. These dedicated professionals play a critical role in supporting students’ academic achievement, personal growth, and college and career readiness, helping students succeed both in school and beyond.
March 1-7, 2026 - School Social Worker Week
This week recognizes the important role school social workers play in student success, helping students deal with mental health and behavioral challenges while providing academic and classroom support.
March 6, 2026 – Maintenance Worker Appreciation Day
Maintenance Worker Appreciation Day is an opportunity to recognize and thank the dedicated individuals on our Facilities and Maintenance Operations team who work behind the scenes to keep our schools safe, clean, and fully operational. Their hard work ensures that our facilities remain functional, welcoming, and well-maintained, creating an environment where students and staff can thrive every day.
April 20-24, 2026 – After School Professionals Appreciation Week
After School Professionals Appreciation Week is a time to recognize, appreciate, and advocate for those who work with young people during out-of-school hours. These dedicated individuals play a vital role in supporting the growth, development, and well-being of students beyond the school day. In our district, the Expanded Learning Programs team serves over 1,000 students each year, offering enriching and engaging opportunities that foster academic, social, and emotional development.
April 28, 2026 – School Bus Driver Appreciation Day
On School Bus Driver Appreciation Day we share our great appreciation and support for bus drivers and the rest of our Transportation Team - Mechanics, Subs, Van Drivers, Attendants, Dispatchers, and Office Support - and thank them for taking care of our precious cargo during the school year. Our bus drivers and attendants are often the first and last people our students see each school day, ensuring their safety and helping to start/end their day on a positive note.
May 1, 2026 – School Lunch Hero Day
School Lunch Hero Day celebrates the hard work and dedication of the individuals who prepare and serve nutritious meals to students every day. It is a time to recognize their important role in supporting student health, well-being, and learning by providing not only meals, but also a welcoming and positive experience in the cafeteria.
May 5, 2025 – Day of the Teacher
Santee School District teachers make a crucial difference in the lives of our students. They serve with care, empathy, and warmth while motivating and inspiring our students to thrive. On this day we recognize and honor their hard work, dedication, and impact they have in our students’ lives and futures.
May 6, 2026 – School Nurses Day
On National School Nurse Day, Santee School District celebrates our two credentialed school nurses and four licensed vocational nurses that are dedicated to protecting and promoting student, community, and public health every day.
May 17-23, 2026 – Classified Employees Week
Classified employees are people who work in positions that don’t require certification - like office staff, human resource professionals, transportation staff, custodians, business managers, technology staff, and paraprofessionals who support students. During this week we celebrate these individuals for their commitment to providing quality educational programs and services to our students.