January 2025 Employees of the Month
GGUSD’s Employee of the Month program is designed to recognize employees who: put others first; go above and beyond to make a difference in their role; carry out each day with a positive attitude and strong work ethic and demonstrate innovation, leadership, and passion for their job.
Jason Parra
Jason joined the district in 1996 as a sub custodian and has served in various roles and sites including as warehouse clerk, swing custodian, athletic equipment attendant, and walk on coach. From 2004-2006, he worked as head custodian at Stanford Elementary; from 2006-2010, he served as Plant Supervisor I at Ralston Intermediate; from 2010-2011, he served as building supervisor at the district office and since 2011, he’s been working as Plant Supervisor II at La Quinta High School. Jason is homegrown, having graduated from Rancho Alamitos High School. He’s dedicated his career to this district and is well-respected by all who have worked with him. He’s known for demonstrating humility and kindness in all of his duties and possessing a positive can-do attitude. Jason was nominated by staff who appreciate all he does to support La Quinta High School operations, staff and students. His hard work directly results in a clean, safe and welcoming campus at La Quinta High School, ensuring students and families can enjoy an exceptional education and top-notch programs.
Ann Wood
Ann joined the district in 1996, teaching first at Faylane through 2002 and then at Garden Park from 2002 until today. Ann also worked as an Adult Education teacher in 2000-2001. Ann was nominated for this recognition by several parents who said she is exceptional with parents and students, and always demonstrates her care and compassion for tending to the needs of ALL of her students. Parents said that during COVID, Ann immediately launched an effective online learning environment that made it fun for students, ensuring families and students felt reassured and engaged during a challenging time. Parents said Ann’s dedication to their child’s success clearly comes first and her strong work ethic and high level of communication is appreciated by families. One parent said, Mrs. Wood has gone out of her way to make sure my special needs son is included, and going above and beyond to make sure he is successful in her classroom, building his confidence and making him feel valued and cared for. She is a wonderful asset to the Garden Park community.