CESA Employee of the Year

Recognizing outstanding CESA employees working with WiRSA member school districts.

This award is for an individual CESA employee in a WiRSA member CESA who has demonstrated contributions in one or more of the following areas:

  • Positive impact on students and student achievement.

  • Significant contributions to rural education.

  • Demonstrated collaborative efforts in the community.

  • Innovative leadership efforts to strengthen and preserve rural school districts.

2025 WiRSA CESA Employee of the Year Award

Heather Fish - CESA 5
Director of School Improvement

The Wisconsin Rural Schools Alliance (WiRSA) is proud to announce that Heather Fish, Director of School Improvement at CESA 5, has been named the 2025 CESA Employee of the Year. Over the past decade, Heather has provided professional learning opportunities to more than 30 rural schools, supported districts in securing vital federal Title grants, and created the CESA 5 Mental Health and Behavior Summit to equip educators with tools to address student well-being. Known for her innovation, collaboration, and dedication, Heather has made a lasting impact on educators, students, and rural communities across Wisconsin. (Press Release)

2024 WiRSA CESA Employee of the Year Award

Jeremy Wildenberg - CESA 7
Presented by WiRSA board member
Jesse Brinkmann / District Administrator Sevastopol

2023 WiRSA CESA Employee of the Year Award

Charles Schneider - CESA 10
Presented by CESA 10 Board President

2022 - No Nominations for CESA Employee of the Year Award

2021 WiRSA CESA Employee of the Year Award

Hilary Cordova (CESA 9)