Board names new administrators, honors student board member and employees of the year

The Santa Ana Unified School District board announced administrative appointments and public recognitions during its regular meeting.

Clerk Miss Ketos reported actions taken in closed session: by recorded 5-0 votes the board appointed Kristen Risberg to director of support services, Ha Thai to coordinator of student achievement programs, Michael Curtis to coordinator of special education, and Eskila Mendoza to coordinator of special education. Those appointments were presented publicly later in the meeting with brief biographical remarks.

Superintendent Dr. Perez and board officers presented a plaque to student board member Eduardo Abascal for service as one of the district's first student board members; Abascal noted he will soon travel to Japan, and trustees praised his leadership.

The board also recognized Godinez Fundamental High School's theater production of In the Heights for selection to perform at the Spirit of Macy's Awards and honored certificated and classified employees of the year from multiple sites, announcing a reception and group photos.

These personnel actions and recognitions were recorded by the clerk and celebrated by trustees; they will be reflected in official personnel records and take effect as described in the board's closing announcements.