January 19, 2026

Jillian Bowerman, Fox Road Elementary School and Ross Middle School cafeteria’s Food Service Lead, has been nominated by the Hughson Unified School District for the Stanislaus County Office of Education “Employees Making a Difference” Program and the Jane Johnston Choose Civility Award.

“Jillian exemplifies the highest standards of respect, teamwork, and community service through her daily actions and leadership. She truly embodies the four civil traits of Respecting Others’ Opinions, Listening to Others, Accepting and Giving Constructive Criticism, and Thinking the Best of Others,” Director of Support Services and Classified HR Director Eric Petersen wrote in his nomination letter.

The countywide Choose Civility initiative began in 2010 with the help of Jane Johnston, who advocated for and co-chaired the Employees Making a Difference Program and the Stanislaus County Teachers of the Year Program. Employees identify four out of twelve principles witnessed by others as lived out in the life of the nominee.

As a leader, Bowerman cultivates open communication within her team, welcoming new ideas and valuing every voice. Whether training staff on nutrition requirements or coordinating meal service for two schools, Jillian ensures others feel heard and appreciated. She collaborates with cafeteria monitors, site principals, and Parent-Teacher Clubs, bridging perspectives for students' benefit.

Bowerman gives and receives feedback well, engaging in honest discussions, “and turns feedback into action.” She implemented the use of red and silver lunch carts to improve access and flow in the cafeteria and is actively involved in the Superintendent’s Student Round Table, listening to student input and adapting menus with “humility and responsiveness,” Petersen wrote.

“Jillian approaches others with kindness, empathy, and optimism. Whether managing last-minute challenges like field trip lunches or organizing large community events like the ‘Dog Days of Fall’ BBQ, she assumes the best intentions and inspires others to do the same. Her tireless volunteerism through the Hughson Lions Club, leadership in Sober Grad Night, and compassion for families through toy drives and Celebrations of Life reflect her dedication to serving others.”

For all these reasons and more, those who work with Bowerman have seen her as a model of what it means to “Choose Civility.” “Her thoughtful leadership and genuine care uplift everyone around her—students, staff, and community members alike. Through her actions, Jillian reminds us that civility is not just a value—it’s a daily practice of kindness, integrity, and teamwork that strengthens our entire district,” Petersen wrote. “She is, without question, an employee making a difference in the lives of others every single day.”

For the nineteenth year, the Stanislaus County Office of Education and the Association of California School Administrators Region VII will partner to honor outstanding classified education employees in Stanislaus County. Twenty-eight exceptional classified staff will be honored at an award ceremony on Wednesday, January 21, at 4 p.m., at the Martin G. Petersen Event Center at 720 12th Street, Modesto.

Bowerman is among their number. Nine of the 28 honorees will be selected to advance to the state-level and represent Stanislaus County at the Classified Employees of the Year recognition program sponsored by the California Department of Education.