Nevada names two classified school employees as RISE Award winners

Two classified school employees in Nevada have been recognized with the state’s Recognizing Inspiring School Employees (RISE) Award. Amber Bass, who works in nutrition services for the Washoe County School District, and Charlotte Blake, a bookkeeper at Doral Academy of Northern Nevada, were selected as this year’s recipients.

Governor Joe Lombardo stated, “I am proud to recognize Amber and Charlotte as Nevada’s RISE Award recipients. They are shining examples of how classified school employees go above and beyond to make a positive difference in the lives of students across our state.”

The RISE Award was established by Congress in 2019 and is managed by the U.S. Department of Education. It honors classified school staff who provide outstanding service to students. The program aims to highlight the important contributions these employees make within schools.

Dr. Victor Wakefield, Superintendent of Public Instruction, said, “Classified employees are the backbone of Nevada’s public schools and play a critical role in ensuring that student needs are met. Amber and Charlotte truly stand out as role models through their high-quality and meticulous work, dedication, and compassion. They are so deserving of this recognition.”

The Governor’s Office selected Bass and Blake from five finalists nominated through a process organized by the Nevada Department of Education. The selection was conducted anonymously with all identifying information removed.

Bass has worked since 2006 in Washoe County School District’s central nutrition services kitchen for special programs. She prepares meals and coordinates meal plans for about 70 students with allergies or specific nutritional needs—many with life-threatening conditions or complex medical issues.

Her nomination read: “Amber’s compassion, precision, and unwavering advocacy for kids embody the very best of classified employees,” adding that she provides not only nourishment but also safety, belonging, and hope.

Blake manages bookkeeping duties at Doral Academy of Northern Nevada including oversight of more than one million dollars in student-generated funds as well as before- and after-care accounts tied to the National School Lunch Program. Her principal described her as “indispensable.” According to her nomination she is praised for accuracy, responsiveness, communication skills, empathy—and manages finances with “meticulous care and integrity.”

Eligible RISE Award candidates include paraprofessionals; skilled tradespeople; clerical/administrative workers; transportation staff; food/nutrition personnel; custodial/maintenance teams; security professionals; technical staff; health workers; and those providing student services.

As state awardees Bass and Blake will advance to apply for national recognition from the U.S. Department of Education next spring.