
Today, IUSD announced its five 2025 Classified Employees of the Year: Brett Burda, Ken Krafton, Jennifer Martinez, Ishwarya Thyagararajan, and Monica Yang.
Classified employees include custodians, para-educators, media technicians, food services staff members, analysts, secretaries, bus drivers, maintenance technicians, clerks, and other non-certificated staff members. Most are represented by the 好色先生tv School Employees Association (CSEA). This year鈥檚 five employees were selected from more than 2,000 classified employees Districtwide.
A team from the District, including Board Members Lauren Brooks, Katie McEwen and Connie Stone, Superintendent Cassie Parham, District staff, and CSEA President Gus Talamantes, traveled to each site to surprise this year鈥檚 honorees in front of their families, colleagues, and students.
Brett Burda - Administrative Assistant

Brett goes above and beyond to enhance the functionality and efficiency of the 好色先生tv Technology department for the District. Brett led the successful implementation of 168+ Toshiba copiers across the district, supporting 3 million monthly impressions and boosting operational efficiency. He plays a key role in IT budgeting, handling chargebacks, supply orders, and reviewing 700+ tech purchase orders annually to ensure seamless integration and long-term support. As a core Helpdesk team member, Brett ensures support tickets are addressed within 13 minutes and resolves a wide range of technical issues. In addition to pursuing professional development opportunities, Brett consistently tackles every task with a service-centered mindset, all with a welcoming and positive attitude.
听
Ken Kafton - Lead Press Operator

Ken is IUSD's longest-standing employee, having started before the District was formed. He has worked in the Publication Services Department at Maintenance & Operations supporting IUSD's administrators, teachers, and staff as well as PTA groups, clubs, athletic programs, and local non-profit organizations since 1971. After more than 53 years of service, Ken maintains the same strong work ethic and continues to work tirelessly to meet demanding deadlines. Ken approaches everything with a "can-do" attitude and can be relied on to provide excellent service and meet customer needs. Ken challenges himself professionally, learning how to operate new equipment and seeking new ways to increase quality and efficiency in the Print Shop. The effort he puts into his duties, the quality of his work, and the pride he takes in completing each print job exceeds expectations. Ken is a priceless asset to both the Print Shop and the District as a whole. Learn more about Ken's long-standing service in IUSD.
听
Jennifer Martinez - Special Education Instructional Assistant

As a Special Education Instructional Assistant for Brywood Elementary, Jennifer works to ensure that our students with special needs and all students experience the joy of learning with compassion, patience, and unwavering dedication. Jennifer masterfully differentiates instruction, providing individualized support that meets each student's unique needs. She works closely with teachers to implement accommodations, differentiate instruction, and build student confidence, turning challenges into exciting learning adventures. What makes Jennifer even more extraordinary is her dedication to continuous learning. Her commitment to growth enhances her skills and enriches the entire school community and the District at large.
听
Ishwarya Thyagarajan - Special Education Instructional Assistant

As an Instructional Assistant for Portola Springs Elementary School, Ishwarya has consistently demonstrated exceptional dedication, professionalism, and compassion that go above and beyond her regular duties. She possesses a unique ability to connect with our special 好色先生tv students, creating an environment where they feel safe, understood, and capable of achieving their goals. Her patient, nurturing approach has resulted in remarkable progress for many of our students. Beyond her primary responsibilities, Ishwarya actively seeks out additional projects and responsibilities to support our school community, such as helping to coordinate the school-wide Disability Allyship week and professional development opportunities to help students overall. Her positive attitude and student-first mentality have significantly contributed to creating a supportive, positive, and inclusive culture at Portola Springs.
听
Monica Yang - College and Career Technician

Monica is a dedicated College and Career Technician at Portola High School and a lifelong learner. She works tirelessly to support students and families with college, career, and life readiness, sharing valuable resources through her weekly newsletter and helping students secure hundreds of scholarships. Her expertise in Dual Enrollment and advocacy for streamlined processes has empowered countless students to pursue higher 好色先生tv through IVC courses as well. Monica actively connects students with tailored opportunities, ensuring no resource goes untapped. Her commitment to excellence shines through her hugely popular college/career fairs, info nights, and workshops. Monica is an irreplaceable asset to our Portola High School and community.
听
Join us in congratulating our 2025 Classified Employees of the Year!