Outstanding IUSD Staff Honored by County

Wednesday, April 15, the Orange County Board of Education and County Superintendent of Schools Dr. Al Mijares presented awards to two IUSD staff members for their dedicated and exceptional service.

Janelle Cranch was one of six recipients of the County’s Classified Employees of the Year award for 2015.  The California Department of Education’s Classified School Employees of the Year program annually highlights the contributions of employees who have performed exceptionally in support of public school students, from preschool through grade 12. Janelle, a Buyer Technician – Fixed Assets, works in the District Office and is known for her customer service, leadership, expertise and for her service on a variety of committees with IUSD.  She is described as a tenacious advocate for staff and students and as an iconic leader.  Janelle serves as President of California School Employees Association, Chapter 517. Her commitment, compassion and work ethic have earned her a reputation as one of the most beloved and respected members of the school community. Judy Richonne, a social science teacher at University High School, received the Outstanding Contributions to Education (OCTE) award. The OCTE program honors individuals and organizations that have made significant contributions to education. Judy’s accomplishments include her work as an advisor for History Day and the Holocaust Art and Writing Contest through Chapman University.  Judy has taught five different Advanced Placement courses in the past eight years and was an AP Exam Reader for the College Board from 2010 to 2014. In 2013, Ms. Richonne published “The Human Cost of War: Beyond the Statistics” in the International Journal of Contemporary Iraqi Studies. She also presented at a teaching conference at California State University, Fullerton in 2013 on using human stories from the war in Iraq in the classroom. “Ms. Richonne uses her knowledge and experience to engender a love for history in others,” said Orange County Board of Education President Dr. Ken L. Williams. “She has a unique appreciation for the powerful foundation of critical thinking and complex problem-solving the human story provides, as well as an appreciation of the simple beauty of the tale that is ours to share.” Congratulations to both Janelle and Judy.

Pictured above: -Janelle Cranch with IUSD Superintendent Terry Walker and Orange County Board of Education President Dr. Ken L. Williams -Judy Richonne with Orange County Board of Education President Dr. Ken L. Williams