Gathered in the office with her colleagues at Kimme Charter Academy, Karen Hamrick, the lead custodian at Ernest Kimme Charter Academy and the Muzetta Thrower Adult Education Center, was honored as the Vacaville Unified School District's Classified Employee of the Year for 2023 - 2024.
Hamrick, a 17-year employee with the VUSD, handles the custodial duties at the two campuses and teaches the Introduction to Custodial Training Course at Adult Ed.
Tiffany Donahue, principal for Muzetta Thrower Adult Education Center, wrote in her nomination of Hamrick, "She is arguably the hardest worker I have ever seen in both areas of her custodial and instructor duties. Her selfless actions, caring ways, and organization are what have made adult school such a great place to work and such a great place to attend for our students."
Donahue also singled out her willingness to go the extra mile to help keep the campus clean and train other custodians in the district how to show pride in their work.
"Karen goes beyond just being a campus custodian. Building strong relationships with students is a priority for her. She strongly believes in the power of a positive adult relationship with our students," Ami Blackstone, Kimme Charter Academy principal, wrote.
"She can be seen laughing with kids, giving them "mom" talks or hugging them when they are upset. There is nothing she wouldn't do to ensure a kid has what they need."
Blackstone also focused on Hamrick's dedication to making sure the campus was clean and "stepping up in a big way," staying late to clean 20 classrooms, 9 bathrooms, and 2 full offices every night and/or morning.
"I am honored to recognize Karen Hamrick as our Classified of the Year for Muzetta Thrower Adult Education Center," Donahue concluded her nomination.