Garden Grove Celebrates Local School Cook Winning Statewide Employee Award

State Superintendent Tony Thurmond has announced the 2024 California Classified School Employees of the Year. This list includes a cook from Orange County. This is the third year in a row that at least one classified school employee from Orange County has received this award. In recent years, Orange County has been well represented, with 10 of the last 36 winners.

Concepcion 'Connie' Flores, who has worked for the Garden Grove Unified School District for 23 years, is among the recipients. Besides her main job as a cook and baker, she is well-regarded by students, staff, and colleagues. Her dedication and contributions to the school have earned her this state-level recognition.

The Classified School Employees of the Year program was started by the California Department of Education in 2008. It recognizes the outstanding work of non-teaching school staff in various categories such as food and nutrition, transportation, and administrative support. The program highlights the important role these employees play in creating a supportive educational environment.

This year, 134 nominees from across the state were evaluated on their work performance, leadership, community involvement, and commitment to their roles. Connie Flores stood out for her long service and positive impact at Garden Grove High School. She manages daily meal preparations for over 1,000 students and helps with the district’s catering services, improving the food experience at school events.

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