Classified Classroom Employee of the Year goes to Frida Diaz Natalio, Student Support Practitioner, Student Services. Frida exemplifies what it means to serve with heart, compassion and excellence, consistently supporting students and families through some of life’s greatest challenges. Whether conducting home visits or connecting families with resources, she meets people where they are and makes a meaningful difference in their lives. Photo courtesy of Placer County Office of Education


ROCKLIN, CA (MPG) – Placer County Superintendent of Schools Gayle Garbolino-Mojica is proud to announce the 2026 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 bring the PCOE Promise to life through the way they show up every day, with dedication, compassion and a genuine commitment to making a difference,” says Placer County Superintendent of Schools Gayle Garbolino-Mojica. “Their impact reaches far beyond their individual roles. They strengthen our schools, support their colleagues and help create brighter opportunities for the students and communities we serve.”

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.

Please join us in celebrating these outstanding individuals, and learn more about their stories in the profiles below.

Michaela Berg, Staff Secretary, Student Services. Photo courtesy of Placer County Office of Education.

Michaela Berg was honored as the Classified Clerical Employee of the Year. Michaela is the kind of teammate every organization hopes to have, bringing resilience, adaptability and a steadfast commitment to those she serves. Throughout a year of change, she consistently provided exceptional customer service while approaching challenges with grace, positivity and a team-first spirit.

Denise Siguenza, Program Support Specialist, Early Childhood Education. Photo courtesy of Placer County Office of Education.

Denise was honored as the Classified Support Employee of the Year. Denise is the heart of the Early Childhood Education team, creating a welcoming and supportive environment where colleagues feel valued, encouraged and cared for. Through her knowledge and kindness, she embodies the PCOE Promise and demonstrates what it means to be part of Team PCOE.

Torre Ruff, Teacher of the Deaf and Hard of Hearing, Student Services. Photo courtesy of Placer County Office of Education.

Torre Ruff was honored as the Certificated Employee of the Year. Torre consistently demonstrates a commitment to excellence, bringing dedication, professionalism and a positive spirit to everything she does. Her willingness to support others and go the extra mile makes her a valued member and a deserving recipient of this recognition.

Becky Canham, Director of Curriculum & Instruction, Education Innovation and Supports. Photo courtesy of Placer County Office of Education. 

Becky was honored as the Management Employee of the Year. Becky is a visionary leader whose influence has strengthened literacy and instructional practices across Placer County and throughout California. Through transformative efforts such as Placer County Reads and the development of a $15 million statewide literacy grant, she has created lasting opportunities to improve outcomes for students and educators.

 Dr. Brian Swank, Executive Director, Human Resources. Photo courtesy of Placer County Office of Education.

Dr. Brian Swank was honored with Rookie of the Year. In his first year at PCOE, Brian Swank has already made a significant impact through his expertise, collaborative leadership and commitment to exceptional service. Whether supporting employees, partnering with labor groups or advancing Human Resources initiatives, he approaches every opportunity with a solutions-focused mindset and a willingness to help.

Kelsey Bonnet, Communications & Events Specialist, Communications/Prevention Supports and Services. Photo courtesy of Placer County Office of Education.

Lastly, Kelsey Bonnet was honored with the Superintendent’s Award. Kelsey’s creativity, strategic thinking and behind-the-scenes work have made a lasting impact across PCOE. Through award-winning communications, an expanded social media presence and innovative marketing for California PBIS, she has elevated PCOE’s profile and created tools that strengthen the organization and inspire confidence.