From the office to the classroom, they are the best staff that Manteca Unified has to offer its more than 24,000 students spanning Manteca, Lathrop, French Camp and Weston Ranch.
And last week, the district’s top classified and certificated employees were honored with the distinction of being named the Classified Employees and Educators of the Year at the annual District Celebration event at the school district administrative complex.
In the attendance clerk and clerical category, it was Neil Hafley’s Lisa Mattos that earned the top distinction for her positive interaction with students and her support to the overall school community.
“Mrs. Mattos’ is an exceptional Attendance Clerk because she believes, whole-heartedly, that the best place for students to be, is in school,” Neil Hafley Principal Lori Guzman-Alvarez wrote. “She advocates for student learning on a daily basis.”
The district’s top primary grades teacher, Rosa “Rosie” Calvo Prado, serves as a “model” for both colleagues and students alike at Lathrop Elementary School, and her dedication to teamwork both in and out of the classroom helped her earn the distinction.
“It is always a pleasure walking into Mrs. Prado’s class and seeing the independence in her students as well as collaboration,” Lathrop Elementary Principal David Silveira wrote. “Mrs. Rosie Prado is truly an asset to our school and a remarkable individual who is a model for all of us to follow!”
As an intermediate teacher, Jennifer Spears was honored for her willingness to help her students achieve their full potential, and for recognizing the strengths of each and every student that she encounters during her workday.
“Mrs. Spears is one of those teachers that has so much energy and drive to help students reached their highest potential. Jennifer is a champion for all students,” Walter Woodward Principal Sherrie Jamero wrote. “She values each child and what they bring, each day.”
In the para-educator and instructional assistance category, Leonor “Nora” Anaya was honored for her attention to detail and her willingness to go above and beyond her job description for the betterment of the students that she works with.
“Nora’s tenure at Sierra High School thus far has been a positive and successful demonstration of her commitment to the student body and staff,” Sierra High School Vice Principal Anne Marie Shaw wrote. “She goes above and beyond just knowing the basic skills required to do her job, and she sincerely cares for the growth and well-being of the students.”
The district’s awards, which are given out every spring, encapsulate the best of the district which serves more than 24,000 students in Manteca, Lathrop, French Camp and Weston Ranch. Certain certificated personnel and classified employees, like Prado and Mattos, who were honored at the event will be forwarded on to the San Joaquin County Office of Education for consideration for the honors of San Joaquin County’s Employee and Teacher of the Year, which will be named later.

To contact reporter Jason Campbell email jcampbell@mantecabulletin.com or call 209.249.3544.