The Ohio Department of Education and Workforce is seeking nominations for the Recognizing Inspirational School Employees (RISE) Award, a program created by Congress in 2019 and overseen by the U.S. Department of Education. The award honors classified school employees who provide exemplary service to their schools, students, colleagues, and communities.
Classified school staff include:
- Paraprofessional
- Clerical and administrative services
- Transportation services
- Food and nutrition services
- Custodial and maintenance services
- Security services
- Health and student services
- Technical services
- Skilled trades
Nominations are open now through August 28, 2026.
Learn more about the RISE Award and view Ohio’s past honorees. Direct questions about the RISE award to Virginia Graber at wholechild@education.ohio.gov.