Classified Classroom Employee of the Year went to Kirsten Ratliff. Photo courtesy of Placer County Office of Education

ROCKLIN, CA (MPG) – Placer County Superintendent of Schools Gayle Garbolino-Mojica is proud to announce the 2025 Placer County Office of Education Employees of the Year, an inspiring group of staff who set the standard for excellence in our schools and programs.

"These honorees exemplify the PCOE Promise each and every day, demonstrating an unwavering commitment to students, colleagues, and the communities they serve," says Placer County Superintendent of Schools Gayle Garbolino-Mojica. "They represent the very best of who we are at PCOE — leading with heart, serving with integrity, and consistently going above and beyond."

The Employee of the Year program recognizes outstanding contributions across seven categories. Classified Classroom, Classified Clerical, Classified Support, Certificated, and Management Employees of the Year are chosen through a nomination process that highlights peer recognition. The Rookie of the Year, selected by the Superintendent’s Cabinet, honors a new team member who has been with PCOE for less than a year and made a significant impact. Finally, the prestigious Superintendent’s Award is personally chosen by the County Superintendent to celebrate an individual whose exceptional work, dedication to PCOE, and exemplary work ethic truly stand out.

Below is the list of employees honored.

Classified Classroom Employee of the Year went to Kirsten Ratliff, Family Youth Community Liaison, Prevention Supports & Services. Ratliff is a compassionate leader and dedicated Wellness Center advocate who goes above and beyond to support students, families, and staff. Her creativity, empathy and commitment to inclusive wellness practices make her a powerful force for positive change.

Classified Clerical Employee of the Year went to Amanda Maynard, Administrative Assistant, Human Resources. Maynard is the definition of excellence - an organized, dedicated and compassionate professional who leads with heart and humor. Her positive impact is felt across all departments at PCOE.

Classified Clerical Employee of the Year went to Amanda Maynard. Photo courtesy of Placer County Office of Education

Classified Support Employee of the Year went to Daisuke Robinson, Program Data Analyst, Early Childhood Education. Robinson exemplifies PCOE’s values of credibility, excellence and integrity. He produces highly accurate reports, consistently exceeds expectations in data analysis, and upholds the highest standards of honesty and accountability. 

Classified Support Employee of the Year went to Daisuke Robinson. Photo courtesy of Placer County Office of Education

Certificated Employee of the Year went to Melissa Waggoner, Site Supervisor, Early Childhood Education. Waggoner approaches every situation with a smile and a contagious sense of optimism. She tackles challenges with positivity, turning obstacles into opportunities. Always striving for excellence, she uplifts those around her and exemplifies the dedication and spirit that helps PCOE truly shine. 

Certificated Employee of the Year went to Melissa Waggoner. Photo courtesy of Placer County Office of Education

Management Employee of the Year went to Leslie Wriston, Director of Continuous Improvement , Education Innovation & Supports. Wriston exemplifies PCOE’s Promise through visionary leadership, collaboration and a strong commitment to continuous improvement. She drives impactful outcomes, mentors her team, and represents PCOE with excellence across the state. Her professionalism, strategic mindset and dedication make her a trusted leader.

Management Employee of the Year went to Leslie Wriston. Photo courtesy of Placer County Office of Education

Rookie of the Year went to Sunshine Handley, Coordinator Special Education, Student Services. Handley is an exemplary member of the PCOE team. As a program coordinator and supervisor, she leads with professionalism, kindness, and expertise. Her strong leadership, efficiency and compassionate approach make her a valued and respected presence within the Student Services Department. 

Rookie of the Year went to Sunshine Handley. Photo courtesy of Placer County Office of Education

Superintendent’s Award went to Heath Dotson, PC Technician, Information Technology. Dotson Heath brings a calm, solutions-focused approach to all his interactions. An exceptional PC Tech doesn’t just fix problems—they prevent them. That’s exactly what Heath does every day.