The Standing Ovation Award recognizes non-teaching staff whose work makes a meaningful difference for their campuses, teams, and colleagues. Congratulations to Frisco ISD’s March/April recipients: Maria Noriega, custodian at Isbell Elementary School, and Nabila Yasser, special education resource paraprofessional at Minett Elementary School.

Maria Noriega, custodian at Isbell Elementary School

For more than 20 years, Maria has been part of the Isbell community. While her role is to care for the building, she cares just as deeply for the people inside it.

That dedication shows up in small ways every day. Maria arrives early to make coffee for the staff. She greets students by name and offers a smile, hug or word of encouragement. When a new student who spoke mostly Spanish was learning English, she made time each day to stop and talk with him in Spanish. Her small gestures helped ease his anxiety and reminded him that he belonged at Isbell.

Whether she’s maintaining the building or responding to an unexpected cleanup, Maria meets every request with grace and patience.

One of Maria’s co-workers shared, “Her cheerful spirit, servant’s heart and deep love for our students make her an ambassador for Frisco ISD and a cherished member of the Isbell community. Maria truly enhances the lives of everyone around her and represents the very best of our district.”

Nabila Yasser, special education resource paraprofessional at Minett Elementary School

Every time Nabila Yasser walks into a classroom, her co-workers say, it’s clear that Nabila knows and values every child, not just the students on her caseload.

That comes from time and attention. Nabila learns each student’s strengths, challenges, interests and personalities so she can support them in ways that matter. She anticipates needs before they’re voiced and adjusts to help students feel safe, confident and capable, whether she’s providing academic assistance, social-emotional support or simply a reassuring presence.

She also celebrates all students and helps them recognize their own growth. Beyond her work with students, Nabila collaborates willingly, communicates effectively and steps in wherever she’s needed.

A colleague shared, “Her professionalism, compassion and dedication make a lasting impact not only on students, but on staff and families as well.”