Celebrating Excellence in Education
May 2024
Event Coverage
Click on the image above to access the KETN video made about the event
2024 Honorees
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Mario Abundez
Delano Joint Union High School District | Valley High School | Continuation School Teacher: 9-12 grades
Mario Abundez is a physical education teacher who brings a unique ability to teach valuable life lessons through engaging activities that foster teamwork, resilience, and personal growth. Despite initially aspiring to be a police officer, Abundez found his true calling in education, where he can positively impact the community by inspiring students in the classroom and serving as a role model for health, leadership, and following one's dreams.
Veneranda Aguilar
Kern High School District | Mira Monte High School | Spanish and APEX Teacher
Veneranda Aguilar has been a humble yet invaluable asset to Mira Monte High School since 2013. She teaches Spanish courses from beginning to college level, facilitates critical credit recovery programs, and motivates students across all grade levels to learn language skills and get back on track toward earning their high school diploma.
Alicia Arriola
Bakersfield City School District | Ruth Clark Harding Elementary | 2nd Grade
With 16 years of exceptional teaching experience, Alicia Arriola stands out as an innovative educator who creates an inclusive learning environment for her East Bakersfield students. She tirelessly mentors future teachers, adapts to challenges like the pandemic by developing remote learning materials, and passionately advocates for her school community through numerous leadership roles.
Jennifer Aufforth
Wasco Union High School District | English Teacher/Academic Coach
Jennifer Aufforth has been beloved by students for her engaging, hands-on lessons and respected by colleagues for her leadership roles from department chair to academic coach supporting school wide initiatives. As a tireless educator who arrives early and stays late; she has revolutionized teacher training with the "Wasco Way'' program, advocating for her students and fellow teachers, blending honesty with compassion.
Ariana Balink
With a tireless work ethic driven by her passion for holistic student success, Ariana Balink builds valued relationships with students and families, integrates social-emotional learning seamlessly, collaborates across teams and programs from sports to drama, and advocates relentlessly to provide enriching and well-rounded experiences that allow every child to thrive academically and develop into a compassionate, emotionally resilient citizen.
Teresa (Rita) Banks
Delano Joint Union High School District | Delano High School | Security Services | 37 years
Rita Banks has been an exemplary campus security officer at Delano High School for over 30 years, going above and beyond to ensure campus safety while building strong relationships with students as a coach and mentor. Her tireless dedication, professionalism, and community involvement make her a beloved and respected leader, leaving a lasting positive impact on generations of students, families, and the entire school community.
Karen Bastain
Kern High School District | Golden Valley High School | English
Karen Bastain is an instructional leader who epitomizes outstanding teaching through her intelligent yet supportive classroom instruction across all grade levels. Her example shines through her tireless pursuit of cohesive curriculum development, extensive mentorship of new teachers in the Kern High Induction and Residency Programs, and her relentless commitment to ensuring every student experiences true academic success.
Steve Beardsley
Kern High School District | Bakersfield Adult School | Adult School GED teacher day and evening
Steve Beardsley is a dedicated adult education teacher who helps students of all ages and backgrounds earn their GED, drawing on his previous experiences as a Jail education teacher, Army medic and golf pro to provide individualized instruction and unwavering support to ensure each student's success. With an incredible work ethic and natural teaching abilities, Mr. Beardsley is deeply committed to getting every one of his students to pass the four GED exams.
Aaron Blize
Bakersfield City School District | Sierra Middle School| Resource Specialist 6-8th grades | Primarily History and English Language Arts.
Aaron Blize has dedicated his career to advocating for inclusive education, building strong relationships with students, parents, and colleagues, and going above and beyond to support his students' success. He is a knowledgeable, reliable, and compassionate educator who has made a significant positive impact on his school community through his expertise, leadership, mentorship, and commitment to supporting the success of all students.
Antonio Boschini
Fairfax School District | Fairfax Junior High School | 7-8 Grade Language Arts
Antonio Boschini has been an exemplary ELA teacher with the Fairfax School District for 16 years, providing an academically rich environment for both his junior high students and the student teachers he mentors. Known for his professionalism, strong instructional abilities, and passion for teaching, Mr. Boschini creates a positive learning environment where students are engaged and supported.
Cory Brackett
Cory Brackett is an extraordinary science teacher who demonstrates unwavering professionalism, deep content knowledge, and a genuine commitment to providing an equitable education that activates the hearts and minds of his students, helping them become the best they can be both academically and personally.
Rhonda Burke
Standard Elementary School District | Wingland Elementary School | 4th Grade
Rhonda Burke consistently goes above and beyond, demonstrating unwavering dedication to her students, colleagues, and school community through her involvement in various committees, mentorship roles, and professional development initiatives that showcase her commitment to creating an inclusive, supportive learning environment for all.
Alan Button
Kern County Superintendent of Schools | Transportation Services
Alan is an exceptional Lead Mechanic who has proven his talent and dedication through continuous learning, obtaining certifications, effective communication with all stakeholders, and going above and beyond to assist drivers, mechanics, and other districts with individualized attention and a customer-focused approach. His versatility extends beyond mechanical knowledge, as he provides engaging facility tours, training videos, and other support, making him an invaluable team player committed to serving others and ensuring their needs are met. Alan has embraced a customer-focused mindset, is always willing to assist districts county-wide, and embodies the qualities of an outstanding team player who encourages collaboration and puts others first.
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Jose Castro
Kern High School District | Liberty High School | Math
Jose Castro is an original staff member at Liberty High School, celebrating his 30th year as a passionate and dedicated math teacher, including 23 years teaching AP Calculus with exceptional results. His structured, engaging, and rigorous classes have empowered and prepared hundreds of students to excel in college-level math, with 98% passing the AP exam and 73% earning the top score of "5," a testament to his unwavering commitment to math education.
Tony Cervantes
Kern County Superintendent of Schools | Warehouse/Delivery Worker
Tony Cervantes has been a stellar warehouse team member for over 30 years, consistently demonstrates professionalism, top-notch customer service, and an outstanding safety record in his forklift operations. His unwavering dedication is evident through his impressive attendance, and his commitment to going above and beyond; whether ensuring schools have necessary supplies during the pandemic or efficiently managing logistics for community events.
Ann Chiarini
Tehachapi Unified School District | Tehachapi Independent Learning Academy |TK, K, 1st grades- blended learning.
Ann Chiarini is a dedicated and creative TK, K, and first grade teacher, she goes above and beyond to create engaging lessons and a welcoming classroom environment for her students. Her commitment to meeting every student's needs and providing a well-rounded education, including fun language arts, math, science, art, and music activities, ensures that her students are excited about learning and feel like valued members of the school family.
Maria Cortez
Edison School District | Orangewood Elementary | 3rd grade
Maria Cortez is a dynamic, dedicated, and passionate educator. Her innovative teaching strategies, tireless advocacy for student needs, and commitment to fostering a love of learning have made a profound impact on elevating academic achievement in her classroom and beyond. Described by colleagues as determined, strategic, trusted, skilled, and caring, Mrs. Cortez sets high expectations, provides effective tutoring and intervention, models GLAD lessons, and serves as an inspirational beacon for the values of education.
Nora Cortez
Kern High School District | South High School | Bilingual Instructional Assistant
Nora Cortez has been a dedicated Bilingual Instructional Assistant at South High School for 24 years. During this time, she has made an indelible impact on the lives of countless students through her exceptional support for English Language Learners, active involvement in various school programs, and mentorship of fellow assistants. She embodies the highest standards of punctuality, reliability, and passion for education, earning her the respect and admiration of the entire school community.
Audrey Craig
Lakeside Union School District Kindergarten | Donald E. Suburu School Kindergarten
Audrey Craig is a teacher and mentor who consistently goes above and beyond in her dedication to serving her school community. With an outstanding work ethic and a deep commitment to the success and well-being of all her students, she tirelessly strives to meet their diverse academic and emotional needs, while also actively contributing to committees and mentoring new teachers.
Maranda Cuevas
Panama-Buena Vista Union School District | Earl Warren Junior High School | 8th Grade- English Language Arts
Maranda Cuevas demonstrates her dedication to student success by creating a welcoming classroom environment, igniting a passion for reading and writing, and offering engaging electives to develop essential communication skills. Beyond her core teaching responsibilities, Maranda actively contributes to improving school culture through innovative initiatives such as "Wildcat of the Week" and "Tranquility Thursdays," fostering a sense of belonging, celebrating achievements, and promoting student well-being.
Blair Davenport
Panama-Buena Vista Union School District | Stonecreek Junior High School | 7th Grade English Language Arts
Blair Davenport provides exemplary language arts instruction for all levels of students, promoting executive functioning and social-emotional learning skills while building strong relationships with her students. As a respected leader, Blair serves as the department lead, an induction mentor, and a member of the leadership team, consistently supporting colleagues, developing effective strategies, and driving positive action to improve student achievement and school success.
Christina Davis
Kern High School District | West High School | English
Christina Davis is an English teacher and Activities Director at West High School, known for her hard work, creativity, and ability to engage students at all levels. She has significantly increased student involvement and engagement through her tireless efforts in organizing activities, mentoring students, and fostering a student-centered leadership approach, all while balancing her roles as a professional learning team leader and mentor teacher in the English Department.
Maghan England
Kern High School District | Kern Valley High School | Agriculture Science
Maghan England is a respected instructional leader known for her positive energy, contagious smile, and genuine care for her students, motivating everyone around her as she excels in her roles as Science Department Chair and de facto leader of FFA. Her tireless dedication to providing the best learning experience possible has helped her students succeed in local, regional, and state competitions while making a significant positive impact on the school and the communities it serves.
Cynthia Escobar
Kern High School District | Frontier High School | 9-12 English/Library Science
Cynthia Escobar in her role as a teacher/librarian in the Kern High School District, exemplifies excellence in teaching through her commitment to both teaching and learning. She creates an engaging and inclusive learning environment that promotes literacy and cultural awareness across the entire campus. Her effective communication skills, collaborative efforts, proficient use of technology, and dedication to supporting the community's migrant population set her apart as an exceptional educator who fosters a positive and dynamic school culture.
Lynn Eyherabide
Norris School District | William B. Bimat Elementary | 1st Grade
With 35 years of dedicated service in the Norris School District, Lynn Eyherabide has made an incredible impact on the lives of her students, families, and coworkers through her character, strong work ethic, effective classroom management, positive connections, and ability to modify curriculum to meet the needs of her students, establishing herself as an inspiring leader and institutionalizing her teaching methods and techniques throughout the district.
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Jennifer Fankhauser
Kernville Union School District |Woodrow Wallace Elementary School | 3rd Grade
Jennifer Fankhauser is a dedicated teacher who deeply cares about her students and takes a student-centered approach to teaching, understanding the importance of reaching their hearts before their minds. With a calm demeanor even when working with the most challenging students, Ms. Fankhauser has successfully taught 3rd and 8th grades at both the elementary and middle school levels, demonstrating her versatility and commitment to her students' well-being and academic success.
Rosalie Fuentes
Kern High School District |East Bakersfield High School | Teacher/ Librarian
Rosalie Fuentes is a collaborative and energetic teacher librarian who has fostered a thriving library program at East High School. She has created a vibrant and safe learning space for students while working with teachers to create and deliver engaging lessons on digital literacy and information technology, leading the school-wide Literacy Committee and sharing her expertise at professional development events.
Martha Garcia
Lamont Elementary School District | Myrtle Avenue School | Utility Worker
Martha Garcia demonstrates exceptional commitment to her duties, the school, and the broader Lamont community through her strong work ethic, effective communication, and active involvement in various school functions and community events. Her leadership shines through her meticulous organization, accountability, and willingness to support others, while her genuine care, enthusiasm, and tireless efforts to uplift and empower those around her make her an exemplary candidate for recognition, embodying the values of dedication, compassion, and service integral to building a thriving community.
Sherry Gonzalez
Lamont Elementary School District |Family Advocate
Sherry Gonzalez is an outstanding Family Advocate in the Lamont Elementary School District who demonstrates exceptional dedication to supporting families, schools, and the community through her ability to build trust, identify key areas for support, leverage resources, and foster meaningful partnerships. Her leadership, commitment, and unwavering dedication to helping families achieve stability and supporting the success of children are recognized and highly valued by her peers, school staff, community partners, and the families she serves, making her an invaluable asset to the district and the Lamont community.
Kristie Grubb
Muroc Joint Unified School District |William A. Bailey Elementary School | 2nd Grade
Kristie Grubb is an exceptionally talented and innovative teacher who transforms her classroom into an engaging learning environment, inspiring both her students and fellow educators. Her collaborative spirit, treasure trove of teaching strategies, and dedication to supporting the entire school community make Kristie an invaluable asset to her school.
Ubaldo “Junior” Guzman
Kern High School District | Vista Continuation High School | Social Studies
Ubaldo "Junior" Guzman is greatly respected on campus for his caring and supportive approach to teaching, his commitment to providing extra help and a welcoming classroom environment for students. As the E-Sports adviser, he has grown the program and encourages students to participate, have fun, and represent the school with pride in competitions, demonstrating his dedication to fostering a positive and engaging learning experience for all students.
Daniel Hernandez
Bakersfield City School District | Paul L. Cato Middle School | 6/7/8 Music: Band, Orchestra & Choir
Daniel Hernandez is an outstanding music educator, known for his passion, gentle approach, and ability to consistently lead his Band, Orchestra, and Choir groups to achieve "Unanimous Superior" rankings at ratings festivals. A talented musician himself, Mr. Hernandez performs with prestigious ensembles such as the Bakersfield Symphony Orchestra, inspires his students through his dedication and sense of humor, and has been recognized with numerous awards for his exceptional teaching and leadership in music education.
Amy Hoffman
McFarland Unified School District |McFarland High School Early College | Art
Amy Hoffman is a passionate and dedicated art teacher who inspires students to explore their creativity through her innovative teaching methods, adaptability, and expertise across various art forms. Beyond the classroom, Amy transforms school hallways into vibrant galleries, actively participates in community art events, and demonstrates leadership as the department chair, leaving an enduring legacy of creativity, passion, and self-discovery in the school community.
Stephanie Holladay
Bakersfield City School District | Cesar Chavez Elementary School | Transitional Kindergarten
Stephanie Holladay is an exemplary educator who is dedicated to creating a warm, supportive learning environment where she fosters academic excellence, crucial social skills development, and a strong sense of community. She collaborates meaningfully with parents, providing personalized education, and injecting creativity into engaging activities, all while maintaining exceptionally high expectations and a genuine commitment to her students' growth and well-being.
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Michele Johnson
Maricopa Unified School District |Maricopa Elementary School | 5th Grade
Maricopa is proud to recognize Ms. Michele Johnson as its certificated Teacher of the Year, as her exceptional qualities as both an educator and human being make her a fantastic, calming presence in the classroom who is respected by peers and adored by students. Uniquely, Ms. Johnson has now been named Teacher of the Year in two different states, California and Texas, a testament to her consistently outstanding teaching abilities and positive impact on the school communities she serves.
Lisa Krch
Kern High School District | Career Technical Education Center (CTEC) |Video Production
Lisa Krch is an extraordinary career technical education teacher who brings her passion, industry experience, and positive attitude to the classroom every day, working tirelessly to create opportunities for her students' success in both college and career. She goes above and beyond to involve her students in community projects and is a wonderful representative of her school, embodying what it means to be an exceptional educator dedicated to preparing her students for a bright future.
Shannon Lasater
Kern High School District | South High School | Math
Shannon Lasater is a dedicated and innovative math educator who consistently demonstrates her unwavering commitment to student success through her adaptability, creativity, patience, and compassion, as she goes above and beyond to meet individual needs. She believes in every student's potential, and tirelessly pursues excellence, making her an inspiring role model and an exemplary educator.
Michael Leishman
Kern High School District | Highland High School | Agricultural Education
Michael Leishman is a passionate and innovative teacher with a unique perspective shaped by his own educational journey, and is committed to creating a positive and engaging learning environment through his infectious enthusiasm, strong classroom management skills, and ability to foster meaningful connections with students and their families. With a firm belief in a "learn by doing" approach and a four-pronged educational philosophy that emphasizes engaging classroom instruction, relevant outside-of-class experiences, interactive communication skills, and building relationships; Michael demonstrates exceptional leadership, empathy, and adaptability, making a significant impact on the lives of his students and the school community.
Eduardo Lopez
Kern High School District | Arvin High School | Mathematics
Eduardo Lopez is an outstanding teacher who excels increating a positive, challenging and engaging instructional environment while leveraging educational technologies effectively.. His unique teaching style, expertise as an instructional coach, and commitment to fostering a love for learning among students and peers help to create a positive learning environment for all students.
Christie Marcks
Greenfield Union School District | W.A. Kendrick Elementary | 4th Grade
Christie Marcks is a dedicated fourth grade teacher who is beloved by her students for instilling in them a love of learning. She goes above and beyond in her service to the school community, advising the Parent Teacher Organization, Student Council, planning events like Red Ribbon Week and the Halloween Parade, and leading initiatives like the Kendrick Kindness Challenge.
Ryan Merkle
Kern County Superintendent of Schools | Erwin Owen High School | Special Education
Ryan Merkle is a special education teacher who is a proponent for inclusion. He has embraced innovative instructional approaches while ensuring his students' IEPs are fully implemented. His students participate in engaging field trips and hands-on learning experiences related to the environment. He spearheaded incorporating agriculture science by starting a greenhouse and hydroponic growing systems at the school, allowing students to grow produce that is shared with the school kitchen.
Daisy Nugent
Rosedale Union School District | American Elementary | 3rd grade
Daisy Nugent is an exceptionally hardworking and dedicated teacher who constantly strives to improve her craft and support all students, especially English learners, by offering extra help and going above and beyond. Despite her quiet demeanor, she leads by example with her dedication, unwavering positive attitude, and willingness to assist others. Daisy has recently completed the Bilingual Authorization and Bilingual Authorization Student Program certifications.
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Orquidea Ocampo
Buttonwillow Union School District| Buttonwillow School | 1st Grade
Orquedia Ocampo is a creative and dedicated first grade teacher at Buttonwillow School who actively engages her students, and contributes to school committees like AVID and Ed Partners. She embraces challenges, seeks opportunities for professional growth, maintains a positive attitude towards students and families.Dedicated to the Buttonwillow School community, she offers additional support to students struggling with math and reading after school.
Amber-Starr Oldenkamp
South Fork Union School District |South Fork Elementary School| Resource/Special Education
Amber-Starr Oldenkamp is an exceptional special education teacher and director who expertly manages over 50 IEPs while teaching full-time, supervising support staff, collaborating with general education teachers to develop appropriate goals, and ensuring students' needs are met. Beyond her outstanding work with students on IEPs, she offers invaluable support to teachers, parents, and administration with her expertise and ability to handle even the most challenging situations, demonstrating deep care for all students.
Angela Pendergrass
Taft Union High School District | Taft Union High School | Mathematics
Angela is a teacher who cares deeply about her students, going above and beyond to accommodate their circumstances while pushing them compassionately to reach their full potential. She is a brilliant instructor who has mastered questioning techniques in the classroom that lead students to success and confidence. As a veteran math department chair, she provides invaluable guidance and challenges to help newer teachers grow, embraces initiatives to support all learners, and serves as a respected voice of reason and wisdom on the School Leadership Team through her data-driven, respectful approach.
Lisa Pitcher
Rio Bravo-Greeley Union School District |Rio Bravo Elementary School | Kindergarten
Lisa Pitcher is a dedicated and creative educator who creates a supportive, positive learning environment through her patience, empathy, and innovative teaching methods that inspire both students and fellow teachers. Throughout her career, Lisa Pitcher has made a tremendous impact as an excellent teacher, mentor, and valued community member through her passion for teaching and ability to inspire young minds.
Cherry Popoy
Delano Union School District | Harvest Elementary School | Reading Intervention .
Cherry Popoy is an exemplary reading intervention teacher who inspires and motivates her students through innovative, hands-on instruction tailored to close the achievement gap, while also providing invaluable support to colleagues through modeling effective strategies, data analysis, and professional development. Cherry Popoy is a knowledgeable, student-centered practitioner who tirelessly refines her approach to ensure every student's success.
Laura Rice
Kern High School District| Ridgeview High School | Physical Education
Laura Rice is an exceptional physical education teacher who blends passion, dedication, and innovation to create a positive, inclusive learning environment where she connects with students personally, inspires them to reach their potential through engaging, dynamic lessons, and promotes health and wellness. She has also served as the long-time coach of both the boys and girls tennis teams. As the PE department chair, her curriculum knowledge & instructional techniques, integrity, work ethic, and effective decision making skills, combined with her ability to build confidence in others, make her an invaluable asset.
Erik Rodriguez
Greenfield Union School District | Valle Verde Elementary |5th Grade
Erik Rodriguez is an exceptional educator who is known for his infectious enthusiasm and positive rapport with students. He is passionate, dedicated, and well-respected by students, parents, and staff. He goes above and beyond in his teaching, provides enrichment opportunities for students, and takes on leadership roles to support student growth and contribute to the school community.
Yesenia Sabala
Semitropic School District | Semitropic School | 5th Grade
Yesenia Sabala is very passionate about teaching. She is a positive role model with her professionalism and growth mindset. Her colleagues appreciate her willingness for teamwork that is always centered around student learning.
Maria Sanchez-Torres
Wasco Union Elementary School District | Thomas Jefferson Middle School | 7/8 Mathematics
Maria Torres is a dedicated middle school math teacher who has been an invaluable asset to the Wasco Union Elementary School District for 31 years. She is always looking for new and innovative ways to enhance students' learning through hands-on activities and real-world applications. Her unwavering commitment to her students, passion for teaching, and extensive knowledge in her field, combined with her empathy, kindness, and ability to uplift others, make her an exceptional educator and the true "Heart of Thomas Jefferson Middle School."
Natalie Schuessler
Kern High School District | North High School | Agriculture
Natalie Schuessler is an exceptional teacher due to her exemplary dedication and passion for teaching. Her commitment to student learning, professional development, and mentoring countless new teachers, combined with her involvement in extracurricular activities and numerous accolades, make her an asset to the school, the agriculture community, and the field of education.
Colin Smith
Kern High School District |Centennial High School | Science & Engineering
Colin Smith is an extraordinary Science and Engineering teacher who has made significant contributions to the school's STEM programs and the broader community. His numerous accomplishments, including founding and coaching the successful VEX Robotics team, introducing rigorous STEM courses, presenting at conferences, and facilitating community outreach events, have had a profound impact on countless students and demonstrate his expertise and commitment to education.
Michelle Sturkow
Mojave Unified School District |California City Middle School | 7th grade
Michelle Sturckow keeps the district's key initiatives - student well-being and reading proficiency - at the forefront, fostering a strong, encouraging environment where students feel safe to attend class, read daily, and thrive. As a passionate, skilled educator with exemplary classroom management and engaging lessons, Ms. Sturckow is a true team player who mentors others and shares her knowledge and enthusiasm to help all teachers and students achieve success.
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Lori Tholl
Panama-Buena Vista Union School District|Old River Elementary School | Transitional Kindergarten
Lori Tholl is a dedicated educator with over 30 years of teaching experience at Old River Elementary School. Her caring nature is evident in her dedication to creating a supportive and inclusive learning environment. She goes above and beyond to ensure that each student feels valued, heard, and emotionally supported.Her unwavering commitment to professional growth, genuine concern for her students' well-being, and ability to inspire and guide both students and colleagues through her active involvement in various school committees, curriculum development, and leadership roles make her an invaluable asset to the educational community.
Doug Thompson
Kern High School District | Shafter High School |Intervention and Independent Studies
Doug Thompson is a dedicated and outstanding educator with 35 years of experience. He truly focuses on student learning and is an effective and compassionate teacher. His unwavering commitment to student learning and success has made a lasting impact on his students and the school community His exceptional teaching skills and deep involvement in the school community make him the hub, heart and soul of the school.
Terilyn Thompson
Elk Hills School District | Elk Hills Elementary School | 2nd grade
Terilyn Thompson is an exceptional educator who excels in providing a high-quality education, and utilizing effective teaching strategies while also focusing on developing the whole child through the school's core values of excellence, leadership, family, and equity. With her loving, kind, and calm demeanor, she creates a nurturing environment where her young students thrive academically and emotionally, fostering empathy, understanding, and invaluable life skills such as conflict resolution and kindness.
Cattrice Toles
Bakersfield City School District | Rafer Johnson Community Day School | Restorative Classroom Teacher
Cattrice Toles is an extraordinary teacher who demonstrates perseverance, creativity, and a strong ability to build relationships with her students, even in a challenging environment where most students are with her for no more than one semester. Her innovative approaches, such as teaching video production, leading school-wide reading yoga and painting read-aloud sessions, organizing cultural diversity assemblies, and training students to serve as peer readers, showcase her dedication to providing a well-rounded, engaging, and culturally responsive education that prepares her students to be 21st-century learners who are college and career ready.
Kristen Urquidez
Kern High School District | Del Oro High School | Science
Kristen Urquidez firmly holds the conviction that all students possess the capacity to learn and apply both content and skills when provided with inclusive instruction and tailored support. As Del Oro High School’s first science department chair, resource teacher, and instructional technology leader, she has played a crucial role in developing tailored science courses, supporting educators, and fostering a culture of curiosity and inclusive learning, making her an exceptional educator..
Tony Valenti
Kern High School District | Stockdale High School | Anatomy and Physiology
Tony Valenti embodies the true spirit of teaching as a calling, dedicating his career to creating a positive and engaging learning environment for his students. He embodies the spirit of educational excellence with his commitment and contagious enthusiasm. His commitment to fostering a vibrant and enriching learning experience, along with his exceptional communication skills, and ability to forge lasting connections with his students, have made him a beacon of educational excellence.
Martha Valenzuela-Rincon
Lamont Elementary School District |Lamont Elementary School |
2nd Grade
Mrs. Rincon has dedicated 32 years to serving the Lamont community, consistently going above and beyond for her students and embodying a growth mindset in all aspects of her work. Her unwavering commitment to her students' success is evident through her involvement in various school and district initiatives, while also actively participating in committees, coordinating events, and directing a large student choir,
Maria Vilchis De Bruno
Lamont Elementary School District | Food Services | Lead Cook
Maria Vilchis De Bruno demonstrates excellence in work performance through her attention to detail, commitment to food safety, and ability to consistently apply high standards to ensure students and staff are served nutritious meals in a safe environment. Her leadership, dedication to student well-being, and active involvement in nutrition education initiatives, along with her positive working relationships with students and staff, make her an invaluable asset to the school community.
Charles Wallis
Southern Kern Unified School District |Rosamond High Early College Campus | Cadet Corps & Health
Charles Wallis is an exceptional educator who goes above and beyond to make a difference in the lives of his students and the community. His students characterize him as trusting, kind, selfless, inspiring, wise, adaptive, motivating, patient, and proud of their accomplishments. When he is not involved with Cadet Corp, he can be found out on the baseball field. He has 6 league championships in 8 seasons as a head coach. He invests immense energy into instilling leadership and service values in his students, significantly impacting the campus culture.
Claudia Walsh
Kern High School District | Independence High School | Spanish
Claudia Walsh consistently demonstrates effective instructional strategies and serves as a leader among her peers, exemplifying the concept of lifelong learning. Always willing to help others, participate in school committees, and share her knowledge with both students and colleagues, Claudia's dedication, hard work, and commitment to never giving up make her an invaluable asset to her school community.
Tami Weslow
Bakersfield City School District | Cato Middle School |Specially Funded Program Clerk
Tami Weslow is an invaluable member of the school community who consistently goes above and beyond her job title, demonstrating exceptional leadership, commitment, and dedication to supporting students, staff, and parents. With her organizational skills, kindness, and willingness to take on any task, Tami is the go-to person on campus, building strong relationships within the community and making miracles happen to ensure everyone has what they need to succeed.
Jennifer Wilke
Kern High School District |Bakersfield High School | Ag Teacher
Jennifer Wilke is a dedicated and hardworking educator who works tirelessly for her students, leading agriculture events and programs. She inspires her students through her commitment to their growth, leading agricultural events and community service opportunities. Her hard work, consistency, and patience have earned her the respect of students and staff alike,
Nancy Zuniga
Arvin Union School District | Sierra Vista Elementary | 6th Grade Spanish Dual Teacher
Nancy Zuniga is an outstanding and passionate teacher who goes beyond expectations to deliver rigorous academic instruction tailored to individual student needs through creative strategies, compassion, and ongoing communication with parents. She is an inspirational leader and model for teachers both in her grade level and across the district, continuously adapting her Spanish Dual Instruction methods to implement beneficial practices that lead to successful student outcomes.
Kern County Classified Employees of the Year
Rita Banks
Delano Joint Union High School District
Alan Button
Kern County Superintendent of Schools
Tony Cervantes
Kern County Superintendent of Schools
Nora Cortez
Martha Garcia
Myrtle Ave. Elementary School | Lamont Elementary School District
Sherry Gonzalez
Lamont Elementary School District
Maria Vilches De Bruno
Tami Weslow
Clerical & Administrative Services
Cato Middle School | Bakersfield City School District
Kern County Teachers of the Year
District Honorees for Teacher of the Year were presented with the option to participate in the competitive application process to be named one of three 2024 Kern County Teachers of the Year.
This is an extensive application procedure which requires the applicant to reflect and think deeply about their teaching practice in order to communicate the "why and how" and evaluate the impact of decisions made on student learning and well-being. The caliber of applications submitted this year was very impressive.
The three finalists will go on to represent Kern County in the 2025 California Teacher of the Year competition.
Meet your 2024 Kern County Teachers of the Year!
Stephanie Holladay
Transitional Kindergarten
Cesar Chavez Elementary
Bakersfield City School District
Charles Wallis
Cadet Corps & Health Teacher
Rosamond High School Early College Campus
Southern Kern Unified School District
Cattrice Toles
Restorative Classroom Teacher
Rafer Johnson Community Day School
Bakersfield City School District