FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
July 23, 2025
Contact: Jackie Wallenstein
866.682.2729 x7082
[email protected]
School Districts Recognized for Innovation and Commitment
Reston, VA – The Association of School Business Officials International (ASBO International) is pleased to announce the recipients of ASBO International’s 2025 Pinnacle Awards, which recognize school districts for innovation, resourcefulness and creativity in solving challenges and championing education.
The awards, sponsored by Virco, Inc., highlight replicable projects and practices that support schools and communities.
The ASBO International 2025 Pinnacle of Excellence Award recipient is Point Pleasant Beach Board of Education in Point Pleasant Beach, New Jersey, for their project, Healthy Staffroom, Healthy Classroom: A Wellness Initiative.
In response to years of high stress and low morale, the district launched the Healthy Staffroom, Healthy Classroom initiative to support staff wellness and create a positive work environment, ultimately benefiting students and the broader community. Entirely funded by outside sources, the program began with a simple walk and has grown into more than 80 annual events such as yoga, meditation, and nutrition classes.
Built on principles of accessibility, low cost, and community partnership, the initiative uses creative strategies like gamification to engage all staff. Its success has made it a valued part of the district, earning recognition from the Mayor's Wellness Campaign and becoming a lasting, community-wide movement.
The 2025 ASBO International Pinnacle of Achievement Award recipients are:
Harris County Department of Education in Houston, Texas, for their project, Rebuilding Coolwood, A Place of Education and Refuge in the Community. The deteriorating early childhood center, vital to an underserved community, was revitalized through innovative partnerships, grants, and local collaboration. Despite land challenges and natural disasters, the district completed the $9.5 million project in 2025. Now serving 106 students and 424 family members, it provides education, stability, and critical community support.
Mesa Unified School District 4 in Mesa, Arizona, for their project, MPS Custodial Language Learning Program. The MPS Custodial Department’s Language Learning Program bridges communication gaps between English and Spanish speakers, enhancing inclusivity and efficiency. Led by Sandy Sillero, the initiative improves language, computer, and soft skills through hands-on training. Reaching half the workforce, it fosters professional growth, workplace collaboration, and broader community impact.
Mesa Unified School District 4 in Mesa, Arizona, for their project, CARTS (Custodial Arts Resource Training System). The CARTS program trains neurodiverse and general education students in custodial skills, addressing workforce shortages and raising cleaning standards post-COVID. It offers ISSA certifications, supports inclusive employment, and sets a precedent for custodial education in secondary schools. The program benefits students, staff, and the wider community through education and workforce readiness.
“On behalf of ASBO International, I extend heartfelt congratulations to the 2025 Pinnacle Award winners,” says ASBO International Executive Director Jim Rowan. “These school districts exemplify innovation and dedication in action, and we commend them for driving meaningful, positive change within their communities.”
"Virco has proudly supported the Pinnacle Awards for more than 30 years,” says Brian True, Vice President of Sales at Virco. “Each year, we’re inspired by the creativity and dedication of the recipients. We’re honored to celebrate this year’s award winners and commend their innovative efforts in making a meaningful impact on their schools and communities."
All Pinnacle honorees will be recognized at ASBO International’s 2025 Annual Conference & Expo in Fort Worth, Texas. The Pinnacle of Excellence recipient will receive $10,000 in furniture from Virco, Inc., and the Pinnacle of Achievement Award recipients will each receive $5,000 in school furniture from Virco, Inc.
For more information about ASBO International’s Pinnacle Awards, visit asbointl.org/Pinnacle.
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About ASBO International
Founded in 1910, the Association of School Business Officials International (ASBO Intl.) is a nonprofit association offering programs, resources, services, and a global network to K–12 finance and operations decision‑makers. Our members manage budgeting, procurement, facilities, human resources, technology, transportation, food service, healthcare, and more, upholding the highest standards of school business management and driving the effective use of educational resources. Through professional certifications, advocacy, and year‑round development opportunities, ASBO International equips school business officials to deliver operational excellence and support student success. Learn more at asbointl.org.
About Virco
Virco Inc., is America’s leading furniture and equipment manufacturer and supplier for the K–12 market. Active in ASBO International for over 60 years, Virco is proud to honor outstanding practices and new ideas in the school business profession.