Manassas, VA—Manassas City Public Schools (MCPS) is proud to announce that Luis Riveron-Wong, Custodial Shift Supervisor at Weems Elementary School, has been named the recipient of the 2025 Recognizing Inspiring School Employees (RISE) Award. The award honors classified school employees who go above and beyond in their service to students, staff, and the broader school community.
The RISE Award spotlights the exceptional contributions of support staff in a variety of roles, including paraprofessionals, clerical and administrative staff, custodians, food service workers, transportation staff, health and technical services professionals, and skilled trades employees. Nominees are evaluated in five key areas: work performance, school and community involvement, leadership and commitment, support from colleagues and community members, and enhancement of the public image of classified employees.
Each MCPS school, the Central Office, and the Transportation Department selected one outstanding employee as a site nominee. This year’s nominees included:
Michelle Friend, Baldwin Elementary School
Ursula Galvez, Jennie Dean Elementary School
Isabella Colon, Haydon Elementary School
Jennifer O’Donnell, Round Elementary School
Luis Riveron-Wong, Weems Elementary School (Division Winner)
MengShi Jin, Baldwin Intermediate School
Elsa Alfonso Rodriguez, Mayfield Intermediate School
Leon Hill, Metz Middle School
Jocelyne Raines, Osbourn High School
George Henderson, Central Office
Heydi Carranza, Transportation
Riveron-Wong was nominated by Jeb Mann, an ESOL teacher at Weems Elementary, who highlighted his positive attitude, dependability, and deep-rooted commitment to the school community. Described as a "Weems Ambassador," Riveron-Wong goes far beyond his custodial duties—greeting families at events, solving problems before they arise, and filling in wherever he is needed, even at dismissal as part of the “Car Rider Squad.” His cheerful demeanor, responsiveness, and initiative have earned him the admiration of students, staff, and parents alike.
According to Mann, Riveron-Wong truly embodies the spirit of Weems and MCPS, believing that every student’s success is a shared responsibility, and approaching each day with pride, professionalism, and a smile.
Earlier this week, the Human Resources Department hosted a dinner at the Manassas Museum to honor all of the 2025 RISE nominees and the division winner, recognizing their exceptional service and impact.
The RISE Award replaces the Support Employee Excellence Award and aligns with the Virginia Department of Education’s initiative to recognize outstanding classified school employees statewide.