In the realm of education, the spotlight often shines on teachers as the key drivers of student success. However, a school’s success is also deeply influenced by the dedicated efforts of classified staff — those who work behind the scenes to support students, teachers and the overall school community. From custodians and office clerks to bus drivers, paraprofessionals and assistant superintendents, these unsung heroes play a critical role in fostering a thriving educational environment.

Classified staff members contribute to student success in various ways: by building positive relationships with students, supporting essential school operations, promoting engagement and enhancing the overall school climate. Classified leaders, in particular, are vital in guiding and mentoring these staff members, helping to boost morale, job satisfaction and productivity. When classified staff feel valued and see opportunities for growth, they become more personally invested in their work, benefiting both students and colleagues.

Building bonds and relationships Classified leaders often employ democratic or transformational leadership styles, which invite greater collaboration and foster stronger bonds between leaders and staff. These relationships build confidence and empower classified employees to provide emotional support and encouragement to both students and coworkers.

For example, intervention paraprofessionals work closely with struggling students, offering personalized support that improves literacy and academic performance. While an attendance clerk might not work directly with students on academics, they could be the first friendly face a student encounters in the morning, setting a positive tone for the day. When classified staff form meaningful connections with students, it creates a sense of belonging that extends far beyond the classroom, ultimately nurturing a supportive and inclusive learning environment.

Operational leadership and strategic vision Beyond their role in fostering relationships, classified leaders play a crucial part in the strategic operations of a school. They are responsible for overseeing the smooth functioning of key logistical, administrative and operational areas. By ensuring effective management of resources, processes and personnel, they enable the school to maintain a stable, safe and efficient environment where learning can flourish.

For example, leaders in transportation must ensure that bus routes are optimized for safety and efficiency, reducing disruptions to both students’ daily schedules and school operations. Facilities managers coordinate timely maintenance and repairs to ensure that the learning environment is clean, safe and conducive to education. A leader in food services must ensure nutritional guidelines are met while managing the logistics of meal distribution to hundreds or thousands of students each day.

Moreover, classified leaders work closely with school administrators to align operational strategies with the overall goals of the school district. Their ability to anticipate needs, manage budgets and implement policies helps maintain continuity in school operations, even during challenging times such as emergencies or staffing shortages. Classified leaders who possess strong organizational skills and strategic foresight are invaluable assets in maintaining the infrastructure that supports academic success.

Supporting operations and school culture Throughout the district, classified staff members are chosen for their specialized skills, whether in administration, maintenance or operations. Their work ensures the smooth functioning of daily activities. Leaders in business services, for instance, set clear expectations and foster a culture of care that trickles down to every part of the school. Classified staff manage essential tasks such as maintaining school facilities, overseeing budgets, providing meals and ensuring campus safety. Their roles, though often behind the scenes, are integral to creating a conducive learning environment, allowing teachers to concentrate on their primary focus: instruction.

Engaging students and supporting learning Under the guidance of instructional administrators, classified staff contribute significantly to student engagement and academic success. Whether assisting in classrooms, libraries or computer labs, they help ensure that students have access to the resources they need to thrive. These staff members often provide individualized support to students who require extra attention, contributing to improved academic outcomes and a stronger foundation for student achievement.

Collaboration and partnerships Classified staff are essential collaborators within the school ecosystem. They work closely with administrators, teachers and families to create a robust support network for students. By aligning their efforts with the school district’s broader goals, classified staff play a vital role in establishing a cohesive educational environment where student success is the collective mission.

I am a strong believer that classified staff members are indispensable contributors to the success of any educational institution. Their diverse roles, from fostering relationships to maintaining operations and supporting instruction, are critical in creating a positive, supportive and safe learning environment. Classified leaders, in particular, serve not only as mentors and relationship builders but also as key strategists who ensure that the school operates smoothly and efficiently. Recognizing and appreciating the value of their leadership and contributions is essential to building a thriving school community where students can excel.