Recognizing Inspiring School Employees (RISE) Award Honorees and Nominees

2026 Honoree:

• 2026 RISE Honoree: Donella Wagner, Head Custodian at Raintree Elementary School in Baldwin, Louisiana.
  • Group Photo (From left to right: Joni Lacy, Louisiana State Award Director; Frances W. Hopkins, National RISE Award Director; Donella Wagner, 2026 National Award RISE Honoree; U.S. Secretary of Education Linda E. McMahon; Marie Cole, Raintree Elementary School Principal; and Kristy Estay, Human Resource Director, St. Mary Parish Schools)
• 2026 RISE Nominees
  • This list of 36 nominees from 20 states reflects a nationally recognized group of education support professionals whose service, dedication, and impact strengthen schools and communities across the country. Their work—often carried out behind the scenes—ensures safe, supportive, and effective learning environments and makes a lasting difference in the lives of students every day.

Previous Years' Honorees

2025 Award

• 2025 RISE Honoree: James Green, School Police Officer at Broad Street Elementary School in Butler, Pennsylvania.
  • Video: Beloved Butler School Officer Recognized and Honored by his Community with Scholarship
• 2025 RISE Nominees

2024 Award

• 2024 RISE Honoree: Mario Diaz Albarran, Head Custodian at Lincoln Elementary School in Palatine, Illinois.
• 2024 RISE Nominees

2023 Award

• 2023 RISE Honoree: Carlene Pacheco, Paraprofessional, Title VI Liaison, and Family Service Specialist at Churchill County High School, Fallon, Nevada.
• 2023 RISE Nominees

2022 Award

• 2022 RISE Honoree: Keeley Anderson, Paraprofessional at Newcastle Middle School in Newcastle, Wyoming.

2021 Award

• 2021 RISE Honoree: Melito Ramirez, Intervention Specialist at Walla Walla High School in Walla Walla, Washington.