April 25, 2024

San Marcos Unified School District is proud to announce our three District Employees of the Year. Chosen from a group of SMUSD’s 2021-22 Employees of the Year from each department or campus, these three District Employees of the Year embody the passion and dedication to serving students and families and were nominated by their peers and supervisors:

Classified Employee of the Year: Ivy Keim, Occupational Therapist, Early Education Center
As an Occupational Therapist, Ivy brings her expertise to the youngest learners at SMUSD, providing meaningful interventions to develop their skills. Bringing a deep passion to her work, Ivy is known for always striving to do better which is only rivaled by her calming demeanor, kindness, and love for students. 
Certificated Employee of the Year: Kristen Engler, School Counselor, Richland Elementary
Returning to in-person learning posed some social emotional challenges and adjustments this year, and school counselor Kristen Engler never wavered in her support of students and staff alike. Throughout the process of guiding students through the transition, Kristen remained steadfast, always ready to help with kindness and empathy.

Administrator of the Year: Nathan Baker, Assistant Principal, Mission Hills High School
A dedicated and compassionate leader, Nathan is always ready and willing to do whatever is needed to create a safe, caring, and supportive environment for students and staff. An educator at heart, Nathan’s passion to see all students thrive has created lasting relationships and a culture of mutual respect on the Mission Hills campus.
For all of SMUSD’s 2021-22 Employees of the Year, please click here: https://www.smusd.org/news/what_s_new/s_m_u_s_d_employees_of_the_year