Irvine Unified School District recently announced three instructors – at the elementary, middle and high school levels – as this year’s Teachers of the Year. They will be formally honored at the Excellence in Teaching Awards program in April.
Instilling a love for reading
Kindergarten teacher Liz Harlow is always finding new ways to share her passion for reading with her Canyon View Elementary students, colleagues and community, making her a standout teacher. She has been involved in early reading and literacy initiatives in the district for many years and is well-respected by her peers.
Social Sciences mentor
Trailblazing innovator Jon Resendez, a Portola High social science teacher, helped open the district’s newest high school in 2015 and mentors students and colleagues in the social sciences. He leads the annual Sacramento student trip, where IUSD students meet with state legislators to share their perspective on educational policy.
Making Science fun
Science teacher Alma Alexander creates a dynamic, supportive and engaging classroom environment for all her students at Lakeside Middle School. She started the student group Mariners for Change at Lakeside, encouraging students to find ways to create positive change on and off the campus.
