Sussex Academy’s Gonzalez feted at state awards dinner

Sussex Academy Food Services Manager Iliana Gonzalez was recognized during the Delaware Department of Education’s 2026 Educational Support Professional of the Year awards ceremony Dec. 1 in Dover.

Gonzalez, who was previously named Sussex Academy’s ESPOY, represented the Delaware Charter Schools Network as its 2026 awardee and was celebrated with other district winners. Laurel Middle School guidance secretary Donna Ward was named the state awardee.

A Sussex Academy employee for more than 10 years, Gonzalez is leading the school’s transition to the state School Nutrition Program, an effort that involves nutrition training for staff and upgrading kitchen facilities. As part of the program, Sussex Academy offered its first free breakfasts to students Dec. 8. Sussex Academy is a tuition-free, public charter school in Georgetown.