Marcus Ridley

Assistant Director, Classified Personnel 
Riverside Unified School District

Marcus Ridley brings visionary leadership to his role as Assistant Director of Classified Personnel for Riverside Unified School District. With a deep belief that classified employees are essential to student success, Marcus has championed professional development and career advancement for the district’s workforce. His strategic partnerships with local organizations and Historically Black Colleges and Universities have expanded talent pipelines, while initiatives like behavioral-based hiring practices ensure that every employee contributes meaningfully to student well-being. Marcus’s leadership reflects a commitment to excellence, engagement, and empowerment, using both data-driven strategies and personal connections to foster a thriving, student-centered workforce. Marcus embodies a forward-thinking approach that transforms recruitment into a mission of community building and educational impact.

Marcus's Message

"To whom much is given, much is required. This truth has shaped my journey, reminding me that leadership is not about titles—it’s about impact. I am honored to be named Riverside County’s 2025 Classified Administrator of the Year, but this achievement is shared with all who have supported, challenged, and inspired me. To my family and friends, your unwavering belief in me is my foundation; your encouragement, my fuel. To my colleagues, your passion turns vision into reality, proving that teamwork is the heartbeat of progress. And to the extraordinary students of Riverside Unified School District, you are at the forefront of our work—pushing us to know better, do better, and be better. This recognition is more than an award; it is a renewed call to serve, uplift, and empower. Because when much is given—care, opportunity, knowledge—it is not ours to keep, but to share. Thank you for this incredible honor!"