SAN BERNARDINO, CA—- SAN BERNARDINO — San Bernardino County Superintendent of Schools (SBCSS) welcomed the 2025-2026 academic year by honoring 17 extraordinary employees during the Stars in Education Celebration held on Sept. 3.
This year’s honorees include four Teachers of the Year, two Classified School Employees of the Year, ten Teachers for Tomorrow recipients, and two educators who completed the Teacher Residency Grant program. Collectively, they represent decades of service, innovation and dedication to student success.
“These incredible educators and staff members are pillars of excellence in our educational community,” said County Superintendent Ted Alejandre. “Through innovative approaches and genuine care, they create learning environments that uplift all students and staff. It is an honor to recognize their inspirational work.”
Nominated first by their peers, the recipients of the SBCSS Teachers of the Year award were then selected by a panel comprised of staff from three regions throughout the County and representatives from the San Bernardino County Teachers Association. The award highlights educational innovation, student learning and the rewards of teaching.
Recipients of the SBCSS Classified School Employee of the Year are also nominated by their peers. Honorees in this category have served five or more years in their current role and are recognized for strong dedication to their school communities through exceptional performance, leadership and continuous professional growth.
The Teachers for Tomorrow program provides financial assistance to SBCSS employees who are pursuing their teaching credential. Recipients of this prestigious award receive monetary assistance with tuition, books and other academic support services.
In partnership with Claremont Graduate University, the Teacher Residency Grant program provides funding for SBCSS employees pursuing a Preliminary California Teaching Credential in extensive support needs and a Master’s Degree in education. All 17 of this year’s honorees received a gift from SchoolsFirst Federal Credit Union in recognition of their achievements.
TEACHERS OF THE YEAR:
Jackie Abney (Overall Winner)
Special Education
Teacher of the Year
Desert Mountain Victor Admin Office
Todd Broaddus
Special Education
Teacher of the Year
Los Osos High School
Kimberly Nancarrow
Alternative Education
Teacher of the Year
Victorville Education Center
Cynthia Ruiz
State Preschool
Teacher of the Year
Frost County Early Education Center
CLASSIFIED SCHOOL EMPLOYEES OF THE YEAR:
Helen Card
Paraeducator
Barbara Phelps County Community School
Tracey Castillo
Independent Study Technician
Sunwest Building
TEACHERS FOR TOMORROW:
- Maricela Armenta
- Itzel Castillo
- Keenia Gaines
- Rosita Gomez
- Christin Ibrahim
- Courtney Olivieri
- Kaya Scroggins
- Yvette Sisco
- Jessica Whisenant
TEACHER RESIDENCY GRANT RECIPIENTS:
- Jenel Bracamontes
- Phyllis Clasen
For short bios of each of the award recipients, please click here.
