Employee of the Month: Centeno is focused on student learning

It is with pleasure that we honor Manuela Centeno, Paraeducator II in Special Education, as the May 2022 Employee of the Month.

In her career with the Office of the Fresno County Superintendent of Schools, Manuela has gone above-and-beyond in working with a wide variety of teachers. In her current position at Reedley High School, she is a wonderful translator for those parents who need her support and enjoys working with students of all ages, ensuring they receive the maximum benefits of education.

Manuela is always dependable and focused on student learning. This became even more apparent during COVID-19 school closures. She was a great support to teachers and families as FCSS made the transition to distance learning and then back to in-person learning. She was confident sharing her thoughts and ideas about different strategies discussed to provide quality distance learning instruction. Even in a room of certificated teachers, she was willing to speak up regarding instructional needs of students.

Manuela has high expectations for every student and is always willing to support the teacher she is working with to attain those goals. She is honest about what she observes in the classroom and never says “no” when it comes to coming in early when a colleague is out or staying late until each student is safely on the bus to go home. Manuela has a sweet and quiet nature about her, but make no mistake, she is a rockstar in the field of education.

“I was extremely surprised when FCSS staff, including my wonderful principal Darla, and other administrators told me about this,” said Manuela. “However, I graciously accept this award and first and foremost would like to dedicate it to all the students I have served for almost 19 years. I am very sure they all celebrate along with me and all my family, including my husband Nestor Centeno, who has always supported me, and my children, Christian, David and Stephanie. They all are my energy to go to work every day. I am also dedicating this award to all my fellow workers, specially to Lynda Betancourt and Joaquin Nunez. We are the best team ever.”