Meet RSD's 2022 Nominee For State Classified School Employee Of The Year

Students at William Wiley Elementary never know where they may see Stephanie O’Brien-Green next.

They expect to see her at school—walking the hallways, supervising lunch or in the school office where they know they can always go to her for help. But then there’s the times she shows up to winter holiday events dressed as Mrs. Claus. She has even shown up extracurricular events and performances throughout the community to cheer them on.

It is that commitment that led district leaders to select the William Wiley administrative assistant as RSD’s nominee for State Classified School Employee of the Year.

“Attitudes are contagious and she knows that everything she does leads to student success,” says Principal Paul Chartrand. “She is willing to go the extra mile for students.”

The Classified School Employee of the Year program recognizes classified employees from each of Washington's educational service districts every year. Celebrated staff members are chosen for their exceptional work; the respect and admiration they have received from their community; their commitment to professional growth and deepening connections between schools and communities; their collaborative approach to creating positive and successful school cultures and dedication to student success.

Mrs. O’Brien-Green joined the district in the 2009-10 school year as a paraeducator at Chief Joseph Middle School. She served as Tapteal Elementary’s administrative assistant for two years before joining the team at William Wiley in the 2017-18 school year.

As the school’s administrative assistant, Mrs. O’Brien-Green plays a role in working with Mr. Chartrand to maintain William Wiley’s day-to-day operations. That responsibility to the school as a whole is supported by her attention to individual relationships with students, staff and families. Students know to ask for her by name if they need help and know she wants them to be successful. She works with staff to ensure each student’s unique needs, whether academic or otherwise are being met, and she supports activities with the school’s parent-teacher association (PTA)

Just as she’s willing to attend student sporting events or performances, she’s also committed to meeting other needs outside of the classroom. Mrs. O’Brien-Green helped set up the Wiley Caring Corner, the school’s food pantry, and keeps it stocked for students who need it.

“Stephanie is a shining example of how our staff make schools such critical resources not only in preparing students for their futures but meeting their daily needs,” says Assistant Superintendent Brian Moore. “We’re excited to have her represent our schools.”