2026 Classified Employee of the Year

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Congratulations, Eddie Sinsun: Long Beach Unified’s 2025–26 Classified Employee of the Year

Long Beach Unified School District is proud to celebrate the dedication and impact of our 2025–26 Classified Employee of the Year, Eddie Sinsun. Through his work with students, staff, and families at Jefferson Leadership Academy, Eddie exemplifies what it means to support students and strengthen a school community. His work reflects our Vision 2035 Adult Portrait and the difference one person can make on a campus every day.

As Campus Staff Assistant, Eddie steps in wherever support is needed. He talks with students who are struggling academically, behaviorally, or emotionally, helping them work through challenges and return to class ready to learn. Students stop by his office before school, after school, and throughout the day, sometimes to share exciting news and sometimes because they need a moment, advice, or someone to listen. He also works closely with teachers and families, offering insight and support for students who need additional help.

Eddie also looks for practical ways to support students’ daily needs. He organized efforts to collect gently used uniforms from outgoing eighth-grade students so that future students can access shirts, pants, and sweatshirts if needed. He helped lead the implementation of the Minga system on campus, walking from classroom to classroom to support teachers and ensure a smooth, successful transition.

The recognition came during a deeply meaningful moment in Eddie’s life. “My beautiful baby Luna was just born a couple of hours ago,” he shared. “I’ve been at the hospital for the past couple of days, working hard there. As for my efforts at school, the kids and the community have been nothing but positive. It’s a positive day for me, a positive end to the school year, and one of the best days of my life.”

“Eddie reminds us that some of the most meaningful work in our schools happens in the moments people don’t always see,” said Superintendent Dr. Jill A. Baker. “Through his kindness, consistency, and willingness to step in wherever he is needed, he helps students feel seen and reminds them they always have someone in their corner.”

Beyond the classroom, Eddie serves as Jefferson’s boys' soccer coach, using the field to teach leadership, accountability, and perseverance. He encourages student-athletes to learn from setbacks and understand what it means to represent their school both on and off the field.

Whether he is helping a student work through a difficult day, collecting uniforms for future students, supporting teachers with classroom challenges, or coaching from the sidelines, Eddie approaches each responsibility with the same goal: making sure students have the support they need to succeed. His work continues to shape the daily experience of students and staff at Jefferson Leadership Academy.

The 2025–26 Classified Employee of the Year recognition celebrates Eddie’s work and the lasting impact he makes for students every day.

Congratulations, again, Eddie Sinsun, Long Beach Unified’s 2025–26 Classified Employee of the Year.

The remaining eight finalists were: 

Ashleigh Fernando—Human Resources Technician 

Bertha De Paz—Intermediate Office Assistant

Cindy von Arx—Executive Secretary

Danielle Sanchez—Nutrition Services Supervisor I

Dennis Joyce—Middle School Office Supervisor 

Mario Ramos Jr.—Speech-Language Pathology Assistant

Milve Ponce—Student Evaluation Technician 

Sandra Garcia—Recreation Aide