Getting to Know SDCOE: Veraleen "Vera" Bondoc

Vera Bondoc says she was in shock when someone shared praise about her on Viva Engage. But, to the people offering the kudos and many others across the organization, it came as no surprise at all.

“We all love working with Vera,” said Vy Nguyen, Student Services and Programs. “She has such great customer service skills and is always helpful. She is an excellent example of treating colleagues with a human-centered approach.”

Bondoc is a human resources technician II and has been with SDCOE for 18 years. She said that time has gone by quickly, largely because of the support of her coworkers.

“I love my colleagues’ knowledge, passion, and innovation, and how laughter will get us through the day,” she said. “This organization has been great.”

She originally considered becoming a pharmacist or teacher before deciding that human resources was the field for her. When a job came up in Human Resource Services at SDCOE, she realized that the role would allow her to stay in the human resources profession while supporting public education.

In her current role, she processes personnel transactions, primarily for limited-term employees and substitute teachers. This involves auditing, data-processing, customer support, and employee onboarding. 

“As we bring on these new employees to SDCOE, we want to make sure that our colleagues have all the tools and resources that they need,” she said.

Bodoc said she is driven by SDCOE’s North Star goal.

“Everyone in this organization is a star in SDCOE that has a different journey,” she explained. “For me, in HR, it’s making sure that there’s a smooth transition from beginning to end for employees.”

The level of care she puts into her job is obvious to her colleagues.

“Vera is an amazing team player,” said Monica Quiroz, Student Wellness and School Culture, “It is a pleasure to work with her. She is always kind, helpful, and always goes above and beyond.”

The string of public kudos on Viva Engage may have come as a surprise, but it was a rewarding one.

“Anytime you get kudos from any colleague, it’s nice to be recognized for the work that you’ve done throughout the years,” Bondoc said.