The Pinnacle Awards celebrate the work of outstanding districts whose innovative solutions maximize resources and enhance student achievement.
Congratulations to the 2025 Pinnacle Award recipients—innovators in school business management!
Pinnacle of Excellence Award
Point Pleasant Beach Board of Education
Point Pleasant Beach, New Jersey
Healthy Staffroom, Healthy Classroom: A Wellness Initiative
In response to years of high stress and low morale, the district launched the Healthy Staffroom, Healthy Classroom initiative to support staff wellness and create a positive work environment, ultimately benefiting students and the broader community. Entirely funded by outside sources, the program began with a simple walk and has grown into more than 80 annual events such as yoga, meditation, and nutrition classes.
Built on principles of accessibility, low cost, and community partnership, the initiative uses creative strategies like gamification to engage all staff. Its success has made it a valued part of the district, earning recognition from the Mayor's Wellness Campaign and becoming a lasting, community-wide movement.
Pinnacle of Achievement Awards
Harris County Department of Education
Houston, Texas
Rebuilding Coolwood, A Place of Education and Refuge in the Community
The deteriorating early childhood center, vital to an underserved community, was revitalized through innovative partnerships, grants, and local collaboration. Despite land challenges and natural disasters, the district completed the $9.5 million project in 2025. Now serving 106 students and 424 family members, it provides education, stability, and critical community support.
Mesa Unified School District 4
Mesa, Arizona
MPS Custodial Language Learning Program
The MPS Custodial Department’s Language Learning Program bridges communication gaps between English and Spanish speakers, enhancing inclusivity and efficiency. Led by Sandy Sillero, the initiative improves language, computer, and soft skills through hands-on training. Reaching half the workforce, it fosters professional growth, workplace collaboration, and broader community impact.
Mesa Unified School District 4
Mesa, Arizona
CARTS (Custodial Arts Resource Training System)
The CARTS program trains neurodiverse and general education students in custodial skills, addressing workforce shortages and raising cleaning standards post-COVID. It offers ISSA certifications, supports inclusive employment, and sets a precedent for custodial education in secondary schools. The program benefits students, staff, and the wider community through education and workforce readiness.