Eugene Padan Elementary School proudly honors Ardean Dozier as its Classified Employee of the Year.
She supports our youngest learners on campus and is a constant presence in our TK/Kinder SDC class. When asked how staff would describe Ardean, the following words emerged: calm, patient, positive, firm, kid-centered, team player, consistent, and reliable.
She has the gift of what it takes to nurture students to grow both academically and socially. Ardean is a champion for every student who crosses her path. She has a calm, consistent, and FIRM nature. She holds students to the highest standards, and they respond. She has high expectations for students to be successful both academically and socially. Ardean has a true gift and works with some of our most challenging students. One of the things I admire most about Ardean is her willingness to find the good in EVERYONE.
Let me share some of the words from her colleagues who nominated her: “Ardean’s dedication to her position is evident in the way she interacts with her students. The patience and kindness she shows them and always done with a sense of humor.”
She is passionate about everything she does. She works hard and leaves her job at Padan after her duty day to participate in afterschool programs at other VUSD schools. She is a dedicated supporter and volunteer with the PAL program through the Vacaville Police Department. Additionally, she is a SUPER mom who has done an outstanding job raising her children to lead with a servant's heart, just as she does.
Another co-worker described her as “a woman who embodies a unique blend of strictness and kindness.” They continued, “She isn’t afraid to set firm boundaries, yet she always ensures those around her feel valued and supported. Her fierce loyalty to her friends and the people she loves is unwavering, always ready to defend and protect them at all costs. Her kindness knows no bounds—she’s the type of person who would literally give the shirt off her back if it meant making someone else’s day better. She is tough when necessary, but her heart is always open and full of love for those she cares about.”
–Cicely Rodda, Principal, Eugene Padan Elementary School