The Support Person of the Year award honors educational support personnel for the contributions they make to their schools, district-level sections, units, and departments. The district's Support Person of the Year represents Orange County to compete at the state level to be named at the annual Florida School-Related Employee of the Year.
Congratulations to the 2023-24 Support Person of the Year!
Rina Santiago, External Bookkeeper
Evans High
Besides managing finances at Evans HS, Santiago is a compassionate advocate for the leaders of tomorrow. Santiago encourages youth overcoming personal obstacles to succeed academically with pride and determination. She has gone the extra mile to reduce truancy by conducting weekly home visits and calling parents. Last year, Santiago and other staff members visited more than 1,500 families and made 1,000 phone calls. As a result of their endeavors, Evans HS saw 87% improvement in attendance and/or grades among students struggling in those areas. Over the past 7 years, Santiago has become indispensable at Evans, consulting daily with multiple colleagues to see how she can best assist – either during or beyond the workday. Santiago’s participation in OCPS’ Emerging Leaders program has provided her with strategies she uses daily. Santiago’s many accolades include a 2021 Stellar award.