ISD Classified Employee of the Year 2026

We are so incredibly proud to work alongside these outstanding individuals who embody the spirit and mission of the ISD. We deeply appreciate our students and our staff, and we are grateful for these talented, dedicated individuals.

Each district building/department selects their own Classified Employee of the Year. A panel of judges from the Independence community reads each of their stories and selects the District Classified Employee of the Year. All 35 of the honorees come together at a breakfast in celebration of their accomplishments, where the District Employee of the Year is announced.

2026-2027 Independence School District Classified Employee of the Year: Trena Chase — Clinic Nurse for Spring Branch Elementary

Trena has worked in the Independence School District for the past 8 years and has been described as a colleague who is patient, kind, and a great listener.  As a vital member of her school community, she goes above and beyond to ensure that both students and staff feel supported and cared for.  Her commitment to maintaining open, consistent communication with families reflects her deep investment in the we-being of every student she serves.  Trena is a true asset to the Health Department, Spring Branch Elementary, and the ISD.

Trena is one of 35 Classified Employees of the Year from across the district. Individual building/department winners are: