RISD Champion Awards
Sponsored by RBFCU, this award recognizes 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. 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.
2026 Champion Award Timeline
About the Award
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The Richardson ISD Foundation proudly honors the dedicated support staff who play a vital role in the success of our students and schools. The RISD CHAMPION AWARDS recognize the outstanding contributions of paraprofessionals, Maintenance and Operations, Child Nutrition, Transportation, and Central Support Staff—those who go above and beyond every day to make a lasting impact.
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
These exceptional individuals embody dedication, service, and excellence—truly the best of the best in Richardson ISD.
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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.); and Transportation.
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.
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.
Nominations may be submitted by colleagues, supervisors, parents, or students who have directly witnessed the nominee’s contributions. Self-nominations are not permitted.
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Below is a preview of the questions you will be asked in your nomination.
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.)