Governor Steve Sisolak announced this week his selection of two nominees to represent Nevada in the national selection process for the Recognizing Inspirational School Employees (RISE) Award. Sisolak chose Ms. Carlene Pacheco from Fallon and Mr. Ronald McCullough of Las Vegas to represent Nevada based on their dedication to Nevada’s students and school communities.
The RISE Award, initiated by the U.S. Congress in 2019 and overseen by the U.S. Department of Education, honors classified school employees who provide exemplary service. Each state is invited to nominate up to two outstanding employees for selection of a national honoree by the U.S. Department of Education.
“Mr. Ronald McCullough and Ms. Carlene Pacheco are invaluable assets to their school communities,” said the governor. “Both of these exemplary school employees have dedicated their lives to supporting their schools and demonstrate their unwavering commitment to our students daily. I am pleased to recognize these well-deserving school employees and express my gratitude for their tireless work.”
“I’m thankful we have devoted, caring, and hard-working Nevadans like Mr. McCullough, Ms. Pacheco, and our other RISE finalists who dedicate themselves to our students and improving our schools,” said Jhone Ebert, State Superintendent of Public Instruction. “I thank Governor Sisolak for selecting these two outstanding finalists, and I am proud to have them represent Nevada on the national stage.”
Ms. Carlene Pacheco is a paraprofessional and the Title 6 Liaison at Churchill County High School in Churchill County School District. Pacheco is known for going above and beyond her job description. She is an advisor and counselor for Native American students and families in her district. Along with all her other work, she offers one-on-one tutoring, classroom support, and after-school tutoring. She has increased graduation rates among the students on her caseload.
Pacheco said, “I am honored to be recognized for my passion and dedication to Indian Education in the Churchill County School District, as one of two RISE award recipients in the State of Nevada. I am thankful for the opportunity to serve my community.”
Tim Spencer, CCHS Principal added his congratulations, “This recognition is well-deserved. Carlene is the only liaison in our entire district, and she works hard for our Title VI students. We truly believe she will be the finalist for the entire state.”
“This is so awesome. We are thrilled for Carlene and want to commend her on her hard work and dedication to our students,” added Superintendent Dr. Summer Stephens.
The other Nevada nominee, Mr. Ronald McCullough is a paraprofessional at Las Vegas High School in Clark County School District. Mr. McCullough is a former Las Vegas High School student and says he carries the lessons he learned when he was in school. He works within the Autism program as a Special Programs Teacher Assistant. According to his coworkers, McCullough comes up with new and innovative ideas to engage students. Outside of the classroom, McCullough plays a pivotal role in the athletics program at Las Vegas High School.
The other finalists include Mrs. Shiree Carter lunchroom manager at Edith W. Fritsch Elementary in Carson City School District, Mrs. Patricia Dack school secretary at Pinon Hills Elementary School in Douglas County School District, and Mrs. Aurelia Shamblin a paraprofessional at Wells Combined School in Elko County School District.
The announcement of the RISE Award recipient will be announced by the U.S. Department of Education in the spring.
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