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Teacher of the Year 2025
The Eighteenth Annual Santa Cruz County Teacher of the Year Awards Dinner was held on Friday, August 8th, at the VFW Ballroom with the theme “Reflection of Ourselves.” The new School Superintendent, Maya Donnelly, welcomed the guests with a reflection story of a former student. The evening, co-sponsored by the Superintendent’s Office, South 32, the Santa Cruz Community Foundation, and the Nogales Rotary Club, honored twenty-two outstanding teachers from across the county. Proceeds from the event benefit the William I. Rothstein Memorial Scholarship.
Each of the twenty-two nominees was recognized on stage with a trophy and an appreciation platter valued at over $600. Congratulations to Mrs. Journee Hayes from Patagonia High School as the 2025 Teacher of the Year. She received a trophy and community-donated prizes totaling over $5,000. Mrs. Hayes celebrated with her husband and children by her side. Mrs. Hayes believes that “as teachers, we must be advocates; I refuse to give up on any student. My students know that at any time they can come and talk to me and receive no judgment.” Runner-up honors went to Mrs. Anna Schorr Coleman of Elgin School, who received cash and prizes valued at over $4,000.
The Santa Cruz County School Superintendent’s Office extends heartfelt thanks to the sponsors, donors, and community partners who made the event possible. Their generosity ensures that teachers are celebrated for their dedication and that scholarships continue to support local students in their educational journey.
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