Becky Ritter has been chosen three times as the Outstanding Classified Employee for her school. On Tuesday, the Eagle Valley Middle School classroom aide, was named the 2009 Outstanding Classified Employee for the entire district.
"This is the biggest honor ever because all our classified employees deserve this," she said during her brief remarks she reluctantly gave upon winning. "This is what I love to do."
The winner was selected from top classified employees chosen at each of the sites by their peers. Classified employees include office staff, aides, custodians, bus drivers and other positions outside of teachers and administrators.
Teri Cantley, president Carson Chapter 4 classified employee association, introduced them in the meeting as "extraordinary and shining examples of what we should all strive to be."
"They make certain our kids are provided what they need in order to be educated," Cantley said.
Eagle Valley Middle School Principal Chris Butson said when she came to work in July, Ritter was there updating the school's sign. Butson then saw her putting together books for lessons plans.
Once school started, she saw Ritter was involved with cheerleading and sponsored a dance club.
"I can see how each site has consistently chosen her," Butson said. "She's an angel."
In her role as a paraprofessional working with emotionally handicapped children, Butson said Ritter "has a knack with children to help them see the positive. She is a giver, day in and day out."
After Ritter was introduced to the board, teacher Rebecca Hogan walked behind her chair and handed her a bouquet of flowers.
"I couldn't do anything without you," she whispered in Ritter's ear. "I would die."