Five Educators Named San Diego County Teachers of the Year

News Summary

Five dedicated teachers have been recognized as the San Diego County Teachers of the Year for their exceptional contributions to student learning. The announcement was made during school assemblies as part of the 35th annual Cox Presents: Salute to Teachers program. Each teacher was surprised on their respective campuses, which highlights their significant influence on their students’ lives. This year’s awardees include educators from various school districts who demonstrate commitment to inclusion, innovative teaching methods, and nurturing student relationships.

San Diego, California – Five talented educators have been honored as the San Diego County Teachers of the Year for their impactful contributions to student learning and development. The selection of these distinguished teachers was announced on a Friday as part of the 35th annual Cox Presents: Salute to Teachers program. The awards emphasize the significant and positive influence these teachers have on their students’ lives.

The winners were surprised with the announcement during school assemblies or in their classrooms, marking a special moment in their teaching careers. Dr. Gloria E. Ciriza, the San Diego County superintendent of schools, expressed admiration for these passionate educators, highlighting their inspirational commitment to their students.

The award recipients this year include Allison Schmitt, a 5th grade teacher at Solana Pacific Elementary School in the Solana Beach School District; Greg Hinchliff from Bonsall High School, Bonsall Unified School District; Miguel Marin from Granger Jr. High School, Sweetwater Union High School District; Corina Martinez from Pioneer Elementary School, Escondido Union School District; and Kevin T. White from De Portola Middle School, San Diego Unified School District.

In April, a special event was held to celebrate all county school district teachers of the year prior to the selection of the final five winners. The collaboration between the San Diego County Office of Education (SDCOE) and Cox Communications facilitated both the surprise announcements and the recognition event. A 30-minute television special featuring these surprise announcements and highlights from the celebratory event will be aired in September on Cox’s YurView network, available on Channel 4 for Cox and Spectrum subscribers.

Among the five awardees, Allison Schmitt stands out for her dedication to inclusion and innovative teaching methods. A native of San Diego, Schmitt is committed to project-based learning, music education, digital literacy, and celebrating diversity within her classroom. Teaching has been her lifelong aspiration, and she aims to foster lasting relationships with her former students and their families. Schmitt is also a member of her school’s Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion team, where she works on developing meaningful learning experiences that equip students for real-world challenges and ensure their voices are heard.

The recognition of these educators not only highlights their accomplishments and passion for teaching but also underscores the vital role teachers play in shaping the future of their students and communities. Celebrating their efforts serves as an inspiration for both current and future educators across the region.

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Additional Resources

• San Diego Union-Tribune: Solana Pacific Teacher Named One of San Diego County Teachers of the Year
• 10 News: Five Educators Honored as San Diego County Teachers of the Year
• Fox 5 San Diego: Ex-Teacher of the Year Gets 30 Years to Life for Sex Crimes Against Children
• Google Search: San Diego County Teachers of the Year
• Wikipedia: Teacher of the Year