As campuses across California observed Teacher Appreciation Week (May 5–9) and look ahead to California Day of the Teacher on May 14, communities are taking a moment to honor the educators who shape lives far beyond the classroom walls.
This celebration goes beyond coffee carts and thank-you notes. It’s a heartfelt acknowledgment of the passion, creativity, and leadership our teachers bring to their work every single day. In every subject and every grade level, they guide, inspire, and uplift, leaving a lasting impact that echoes through generations.
Let’s continue to recognize and celebrate the extraordinary role our teachers play in anchoring school communities and opening doors to brighter futures.
Recognizing educators who go above and beyond
This year, Modesto City Schools shines a special light on 23 educators nominated for the Stanislaus County Office of Education’s (SCOE) Teacher of the Year recognition.
Out of 85 nominations representing 13 school districts across the county, SCOE visited 24 classrooms to select finalists in four categories: elementary grades TK–3, elementary grades 4–6, junior high and high school. Three finalists were named in each category.
Two Modesto City Schools teachers rose to the top as finalists: Candace Martinez of Bret Harte Elementary School in the grades 4-6 category, and Carol Negranza of Thomas Downey High School in the high school category.
At Bret Harte, Principal Marla Conteh shared why Martinez stands out not only as an exceptional educator, but as a vital and influential presence within the school community.
“Candace radiates positivity and builds deep, meaningful relationships with her scholars and families,” Conteh said. “She sees the whole child and nurtures both their minds and their hearts.”
Known for a classroom environment where scholars feel seen, safe and empowered, Martinez models resilience, empathy and leadership. Whether celebrating scholar successes or supporting them through challenges, she inspires her scholars to believe in themselves and reach for their potential.
A tapestry of dedication
Across the district, other principals spoke with pride about the nominees from their school sites.
At Harriette Kirschen Elementary School, Principal Alberto Lopez Velarde calls Amy DeMoura the heart of the school and praises her passion for teaching, expert instructional skills and deep empathy that create a classroom where students thrive academically, socially, and emotionally.
One memorable moment came during a student performance when a nervous child froze on stage. A quiet nod and warm smile from DeMoura gave the student courage to find their voice and shine.
“Her gentle leadership creates lasting, life-changing moments students never forget," said Lopez Velarde.
At Sonoma Elementary School, Principal Jon Webb celebrates Gina Grgich as a teacher whose generosity knows no bounds.
“Gina pours her heart into everything she does—tirelessly giving her time, energy, and passion to uplift her students, support her school, and strengthen her community,” Webb said.
Franklin Elementary Principal Catherine Mullins nominated Josefina Sanchez-Perez for the inclusive environment she creates.
“Many of her former students credit her with shaping their academic and personal growth,” Mullins said.
Students frequently share that Mrs. Sanchez-Perez made them feel safe, believed in them when they struggled, and introduced them to the 'power of yet," a mindset that helps turn challenges into opportunities and reminds students that limitations are only temporary.
“As one student put it, ‘Her classroom felt like home, and I didn’t have anything to worry about,’” shared Mullins.
And at John Muir Elementary School, Matt Ford was commended not only for his leadership but for his steady focus on fairness and student well-being.
“He consistently places students first in every decision he makes,” noted Armando Medina, Muir Elementary’s principal. “His dedication to both education and the social well-being of his students reflects true leadership.”
Why teachers matter now more than ever
In a time when educators juggle evolving technology, increasing student needs, and ever-shifting demands, their presence offers stability and hope.
The bond between teachers and their students remains one of the most meaningful parts of the profession, leaving an impact that students carry with them for a lifetime.
Teacher Appreciation Week and California Day of the Teacher offer an important reminder: behind every successful student is an educator who took the time to listen, encourage and believe.
A community's gratitude
Modesto City Schools’ Teacher of the Year nominees represent a tapestry of diverse talents and heartfelt commitment. Their classrooms are places where futures are forged, and their influence reaches far beyond test scores.
At the May 12 Board of Education meeting, incoming Superintendent Dr. Vanessa Buitrago — a proud alumna of Beard Elementary, Roosevelt Junior High, and Modesto High Schools — honored three educators who made a lasting difference in her life: Chris Peterson, Michael Murray, and Leilani Johnson, a retired Modesto High English teacher, whom Buitrago recognized during her remarks.
In her remarks, Dr. Buitrago reminded the community that students thrive when they learn who they are, empowered by the teachers and mentors who help them get there.
“I would not be here without the teachers who really believed and invested in me when I was a student in Modesto,” Buitrago reflected.
This week, and every week, we celebrate our teachers — not just for the lessons they deliver, but for the kindness, courage and compassion they bring to every child, every day.