Helping with a Smile

Every year, HBUHSD asks each school to nominate a Classified Employee of the Year. We’re proud to announce the HBAS 2022 Classified Employee of the Year: Marco Velarde.

If you’ve been around our main Gothard campus in the past 5 years, chances are you’ve interacted with Marco…and walked away smiling.  He has become an integral part of our team, beloved by staff and students alike. 

As Custodian at HBAS, Marco takes extraordinary pride in his work. Visit our main campus and you’ll find our grounds well-maintained, floors polished, and students’ restrooms fully stocked.

Wearing Many Hats

Marco’s actual job title may be Custodian, but he steps into several roles at HBAS.  He happily assists students on the "how‐to" and "where to" on campus. You can always count on Marco to lend a hand. He has helped at Job Fairs, Community Resource Days, Graduation, Community Education events, orientation, and our first Halloween Fun Event.

Marco is described by his coworkers as humble, loyal and encouraging, with a “positive attitude spreads like wildfire.” Marco was moved by this recognition, sharing that he has never won something like this. We are truly grateful to have Marco at HBAS.  Thanks for everything you do, Marco!

Honoring Classified Employees

In April 2022, the Huntington Beach Union High School District gathered for a Classified Employee Awards Banquet. Covid-19 prevented these in-person celebrations for the past 2 years.  This made it even more special to join with colleagues from across the district to honor superstar employees such as Marco.  We were also happy to celebrate our employees with us for 5 years and those with us for 25 years.

  • 5 Years:
    • Marco Velarde
    • Laura Knott
    • Kyle Volker 
  • 25 Years:
    • Mai Tran
    • Huong Tran
    • Tammy Asaki