RISD Champion Awards

Sponsor: RBFCU

Purpose: Recognize the paraprofessionals, facility services, child nutrition, central support staff, and transportation employees whose dedication makes a lasting difference for Richardson ISD students and the broader community.

Geographic Scope: Richardson Independent School District (RISD), Texas

Program Year: 2026

About the Award

The Richardson ISD Foundation proudly honors the dedicated support staff who play a vital role in the success of students and schools. From supporting classrooms and maintaining safe, welcoming campuses to nourishing students and ensuring they arrive safely each day, these team members are essential to the success of RISD. This recognition shines a spotlight on their commitment, hard work, and behind-the-scenes impact—celebrating the individuals who help create an environment where students can thrive.

Award Categories

Each year, the Foundation celebrates these unsung heroes with a $500 award in the following categories:

• Paraprofessional Champion Award
• Facility Services Champion Award – Custodial
• Facility Services Champion Award – Maintenance & Operations
• Child Nutrition Champion Award
• Central Support Staff Champion Award
• Transportation Champion Award

Eligibility Requirements

Department/Role Requirements:
Nominees must be current Richardson ISD employees in one of the following departments or roles:

• Central Support Staff (Adult Education & Literacy, Legal, Print Services, Safety & Security, Tax Services, Warehouse Support and xPlore)
• Child Nutrition
• Facility Services – Custodial
• Facility Services – Maintenance & Operations
• Paraprofessional (Campus or Central Admin.)
• Transportation

Employment Requirements:

• Nominees must have been employed with RISD for a minimum of one full school year prior to nomination
• Nominees must be in good standing with the district, with no active disciplinary actions

Performance Requirements:

• Nominees should demonstrate a consistent commitment to excellence, going above and beyond in their daily work to positively impact students, staff, and the RISD community
• Actions should reflect dedication, teamwork, innovation, and outstanding service in their respective roles

Nomination Requirements:

• Nominations may be submitted by colleagues, supervisors, parents, or students who have directly witnessed the nominee's contributions
• Self-nominations are NOT permitted

Application Process

Who Can Submit Nominations:

• Colleagues
• Supervisors
• Parents
• Students who have directly witnessed the nominee's contributions
• Note: Self-nominations are not permitted

Nomination Questions:

1. Why do you believe this nominee deserves to be recognized as an RISD Champion? (Provide specific examples of how the nominee goes above and beyond in their role.)
2. How has the nominee positively impacted students, staff, or the RISD community? (Describe how their work makes a difference and supports the district's mission.)
3. Give an example of a time the nominee went above and beyond their job responsibilities. (This could be an act of kindness, innovation, teamwork, or dedication.)
4. How does the nominee demonstrate professionalism, teamwork, and a commitment to excellence? (Consider their attitude, work ethic, and interactions with others.)

Submission: Submit through the Foundation's application portal