Honoring Top Supporting Services Employees
MCPS employs more than 10,000 supporting services staff members who work in more than 450 job classifications supporting operations and instruction. Up to three outstanding support professionals in each of the eight chapters are being recognized and awarded. The eight chapters are: Building Services, Food Services, Media and Technology, Maintenance, Office, Paraeducators, Security and Transportation.
The Chapter Employees of the Year are listed below, with an excerpt describing each chapter’s top winner. From the first place winners, three will be selected to advance as finalists to compete for Supporting Services Employee of the Year; one will be named the winner.
Chapter winners are:
Building Services
First Place: David Ray, building service worker, Damascus Elementary School
David Ray is the epitome of reliability, always showing up with a positive attitude and ready to support others. He embodies the school’s family-like spirit through his kindness, laughter and constant willingness to offer support to students and staff. His attention to detail ensures the school is kept spotless, with clean floors, restrooms and a well-maintained environment that reflects his dedication. By making meaningful connections and building relationships, Ray helps create a school culture where everyone feels valued, included and eager to be a part of the school community.
Second Place: Maritza Hernandez Orellana, building service worker, Robert Frost Middle School
Third Place: Frank Gross, building service manager V, Walt Whitman High School
Food Services
First Place: Loretta Taylor, central production facility manager V, Division of Food and Nutrition Services
Loretta Taylor has built an environment of teamwork, camaraderie and respect within the central production facility, creating a foundation that allows 50 dedicated foodservice professionals to craft more than 30,000 daily meals for MCPS elementary school students. Her leadership is undeniable, especially when plans change unexpectedly; this is where her calm communication and exceptional organizational skills shine. Whether responding to an urgent situation that requires the production of 300 meals in 15 minutes or ensuring that every team member is using their skills to the fullest, Taylor remains composed and effective. Orchestrating the use of tools and equipment while managing the complex logistics of meal preparation, Taylor consistently delivers high-quality results under pressure.
Second Place: Yordanos Negash, cafeteria worker, Takoma Park Middle School
Third Place: Anastasia Rosdina, cafeteria worker, Takoma Park Middle School
Maintenance
First Place: Charles (Rob) Powers, maintenance painter II, Midcounty Maintenance and Operations Service Center
Rob Powers is dedicated to consistently putting the needs of students and staff first, reflecting his strong commitment to the school community. He ensures that his work causes minimal disruption to school activities, always prioritizing student well-being and maintaining a smooth, productive environment. Powers collaborates closely with staff to address any concerns, resolving issues quickly and efficiently. His strong work ethic and attention to detail are appreciated by everyone who works with him, as his efforts go beyond just painting. His customer-service mindset ensures that all school and office spaces create a welcoming atmosphere.
Second Place (tie): Jose Iraheta Diaz, maintenance painter I at the Midcounty M&O Service Center, and Juan Andres Fernandez, maintenance painter I at the Midcounty M&O Service Center
Media and Technology
First Place: Trina Vogel, information technology systems specialist III, School Technology Support
In her 34 years with MCPS, Trina Vogel has been a devoted and indispensable member of the technology team, more recently in the Chromebook Repair Center. Her unwavering commitment, meticulous attention to detail and thorough approach to every task sets the standard for excellence in the workplace. Vogel is not only efficient and highly organized, but also an integral part of a team that maintains and restores thousands of Chromebooks each year. Her dedication ensures that students and staff always have the technology they need to succeed. Beyond her technical expertise, Vogel fosters a welcoming and supportive atmosphere at the center, making it a place where everyone feels valued and well taken care of.
Office
First Place: Josephine (Josie) Marinucci, school secretary I, Westover Elementary School
Josie Marinucci is a dedicated advocate, confidant and protector who plays a key role in fostering a positive culture at Westover Elementary School. Her genuine care for students, families and staff is evident in every interaction. She proactively addresses attendance issues by analyzing data and connecting families to the right resources to prevent chronic absenteeism. She is highly attentive to each student's individual needs and her infectious enthusiasm uplifts those around her. She fulfills the role of Wellness Coordinator, plays a musical instrument at the Winter Concert, and completes her daily work with encouragement and a dedication that is evident to all.
Second Place: Patty Kusmiskis, operations supervisor, Warehousing and Distribution
Third Place: Lisa Saunders, school registrar, Springbrook High School
Paraeducator
First Place: John Sparrow, paraeducator, Poolesville High School
John Sparrow has dedicated nearly all of his 39 years with MCPS to the Global Ecology Program, becoming the "heart and soul" of the program at Poolesville High School. He is deeply involved in every aspect of the program, from driving the bus and planning itineraries to setting up tents, preparing meals and managing equipment. He works closely with multiple agencies to ensure that each field trip connects classroom learning to real-world environmental experiences. Beyond the logistics, he fosters meaningful relationships with the 400 students in the program, supporting their growth by arranging mentors, coaching sports, and seeking out programs and internships to guide students in their next steps.
Second Place: Carlos Ramos, special education paraeducator, Glen Haven Elementary School
Third Place: Daisy Faria, college/career information coordinator, Gaithersburg High School
Security
First Place: Felicia Jackson, Security Assistant, Kingsview Middle School
Felicia Jackson is a shining example of professionalism, passion and dedication in everything she does. Whether she’s helping with breakfast, engaging with students or acting as a trusted liaison between staff and families, her proactive and positive approach makes a lasting impact on the Kingsview Middle School community. She is a reliable source of support for students, their families and the staff, always going the extra mile to ensure everyone feels heard and cared for. Known for her ability to connect with others and foster a sense of trust, Jackson is an invaluable asset to the community, constantly demonstrating her commitment to making a positive difference.
Second Place: Stephen Huerta, cluster security coordinator, Office of Systemwide Safety and Emergency Management
Transportation
First Place: Esquibel (Celi) Andino, bus operator, Randolph Transportation Depot
As a bus operator, Esquibel (Celi) Andino, effortlessly handles unexpected changes and tight streets with a calm and confident demeanor. She knows that her role isn’t just about getting students from point A to point B; it’s about creating a positive and reassuring experience for every student and their family. Each day, she starts by greeting students with a warm smile, ensuring they feel safe and ready, and she ends each ride making sure they return home feeling valued. She regularly updates parents on road closures or delays that could impact commutes. Her collaborative approach with school staff is another testament to her dedication that does not go unnoticed; parents and school staff say Andino genuinely cares about the well-being of the students in her care.
Second Place: Brent Beachley, automotive tech I, Shady Grove Fleet Maintenance