Huntington Beach City School District (HBCSD) is proud to announce our 2026 Classified Employees of the Year. These exceptional individuals make a profound difference in the lives of students, families, and colleagues through their professionalism, compassion, and commitment to service.

We are honored to recognize Shannon Samples in the Clerical and Administrative Services category, Christy Alaniz in the Food and Nutrition Services category, and Gloria Posada in the Health and Student Services category.

The selection process for Classified Employees of the Year is both thoughtful and rigorous. Nominations are submitted by site and District leaders and evaluated based on exemplary work performance, leadership, school and community involvement, and the positive impact each individual has on students and colleagues.

We also extend our appreciation to the Orange County Department of Education (OCDE) for sponsoring a parallel recognition program that celebrates the essential contributions of classified employees across the county.

Shannon Samples, Clerical and Administrative Services

With seven years of steadfast service to HBCSD, Shannon Samples has become an essential and trusted presence at Sowers Middle School. For many families, Shannon is the first person they meet when they walk into the front office, and the experience they receive is nothing short of exceptional. Her warm welcome, professionalism, and calm presence instantly set a positive tone for students, parents, and staff alike.

As School Office Assistant, Shannon oversees attendance with accuracy, efficiency, and thoughtfulness. She communicates clearly with families, supports students facing attendance challenges with compassion, and understands that behind every absence is a story that deserves attention and support. Her technical expertise, from student information systems to communication platforms, ensures that the office runs smoothly and efficiently each day.

Beyond her formal responsibilities, Shannon is a natural leader and the first to jump into action when support is needed. Whether organizing school dances or helping coordinate milestone events connected to the Sowers construction projects, she steps in with enthusiasm, organization, and follow-through. She builds on existing systems, refining processes to make them stronger and more efficient, and collaborates closely with her colleagues to share her expertise, ensuring office responsibilities are executed seamlessly and effectively. Her willingness to mentor, problem-solve, and improve systems strengthens the entire team.

Shannon has spearheaded campus initiatives, coordinated staff spirit wear to build unity, supported CSEA efforts on behalf of classified staff, and played a key role in major campus transitions, including inventory and organizational oversight during the move to Sowers’ new campus. Her ability to anticipate needs, organize complex projects, and follow through with clarity and purpose makes her an indispensable member of the Sowers community.

Shannon’s energy, dedication, and genuine investment in students and colleagues exemplify the very best of HBCSD.

Christy Alaniz, Food and Nutrition Services
Food Service Assistant II, Moffett Elementary School

With seven years of service to HBCSD, including six years in her current role and category, Christy Alaniz brings consistency, heart, and excellence to Food and Nutrition Services at Moffett Elementary. Each day, she ensures students receive nutritious meals served with kindness and attentiveness, creating a welcoming environment where students feel valued and supported.

Christy demonstrates exceptional attention to detail and a strong commitment to operational excellence. From food preparation and safety standards to accommodating dietary needs, she approaches every responsibility with professionalism and precision. She is dependable, solution-oriented, and consistently steps up to meet the needs of her team and school community.

What truly sets Christy apart is her ability to connect with students. She knows them by name, takes time to ensure they feel seen, and creates positive interactions that extend far beyond the serving line. Staff shared that Christy is deeply committed to our students and takes the time to get to know them well, especially those with unique needs, ensuring that each child feels supported and valued.

Christy also supports school events, engages families during community nights, and represents HBCSD with pride and professionalism. Through her compassion, reliability, and unwavering commitment to excellence, she highlights the vital role Food and Nutrition Services staff play in student wellness and school culture.

Gloria Posada, Health and Student Services
Health Clerk, Moffett Elementary School

With ten years of distinguished service to Huntington Beach City School District, including seven years as Health Clerk at Moffett Elementary, Gloria Posada has become a cornerstone of student well-being on campus. She combines precision with compassion, ensuring that every child who enters the health office feels safe, supported, and reassured.

Gloria consistently upholds the highest standards in health documentation, medication management, and student support protocols. She works closely with the District nurse, coordinates individualized health plans, prepares medications for field trips and overnight programs, and proactively implements solutions, including innovative monitoring systems to support students with complex medical needs.

In high-stress situations, Gloria’s calm demeanor is especially impactful. Whether supporting a student experiencing seizures, managing diabetic care, or assisting with specialized medical procedures, Gloria approaches every situation with confidence, empathy, and professionalism. Parents frequently express gratitude for the reassurance she provides, and colleagues rely on her as a steady and knowledgeable partner.

Beyond her technical expertise, Gloria fosters a culture of compassion and reassurance on campus. She treats every student with dignity and warmth, contributing to a school environment where health and well-being are prioritized and protected. Through her steadfast commitment, Gloria elevates the essential role classified health professionals play in supporting safe and inclusive learning environments.

“Our classified employees are the backbone of our schools,” said Assistant Superintendent of Human Resources Mr. Robert Miller. “Through their expertise, integrity, and genuine investment in students, they help create environments where children feel supported, and schools thrive. Shannon, Christy, and Gloria represent the very best of HBCSD, and we are honored to celebrate the extraordinary impact they make each day.”

Please join us in congratulating Shannon, Christy, and Gloria on this well-deserved recognition. Their work strengthens our schools, supports our students, and reflects the very best of our District.