On March 27, Columbia Union School District recognized three (3) employees at the Tuolumne County Association of California School Administrators' "Employees Who Make a Difference" awards banquet at the Sheriff's Posse. The event is where school districts can recognize the dedication and hard work of key members of the staff.
The following employees were recognized:
Arianna Canida is currently serving as our Assistant Business Manager, and has done exemplary work at not only ensuring Columbia exhibits proper fiscal stewardship, but that staff and the district's vision are supported. She has taken it upon herself to support the district's health and wellness activities that are benefiting the decisions and lifestyles of students and staff, as well as enhancing food service operations. She is an integral partner to the district's successes and is seen widely by all to be an invaluable resource and team member in Columbia's path forward.
Jeffrey Raabe always comes to work with an excellent attitude and a smile. He makes everybody laugh, every day, always ready with a joke or a rhyme, along with some chocolate. Whether driving the bus or helping to keep our campus beautiful, he puts forth his best in everything he does. Jeff is well-liked by staff and students, especially with the students that are his bus riders. No matter what challenges or obstacles Jeff may be facing, he always prioritizes showing up at work on time and ready to work. Columbia Elementary would not be the same without Jeff and we are grateful to have him as a part of our community.
Sarah Olmsted greets everyone who enters the office with a warm and welcoming smile. She is willing and able to help wherever she is needed, as a counselor, custodian, therapist, nurse, and wardrobe aficionado, all while fulfilling the duties of her job as Office Assistant. She started at Columbia as a parent volunteer in kindergarten, was recruited as a classroom paraprofessional in 2019, and has been serving our school community in the office for the last three years. Every day, Sarah truly makes a difference in the lives of our staff and students at Columbia Elementary.