Teacher Tribute

 We are honoring some of our most exceptional teachers in the Santa Clarita Valley. Below are some comments from some Saugus Union School District Teacher Tribute Honorees on their profession.

Debbie Beckstead, Bridgeport
My students inspire me to…always look for better and new ways to teach concepts.  I like to listen to their conversations while they are working, to get ideas of what they are thinking about and how I can use that in my teaching.

Alicia Fannon, Cedarcreek
Teaching is more than just a job, it is…an important part of my life that doesn’t shut down when the bell rings.  My students are part of the family and I worry about them and celebrate them just like I do with my own children at home.

Shannon King, Emblem Academy
Teaching is more than just a job, it is…a demanding and rewarding job because we know that what we do every day in the classroom will have a big impact on kids.  There is so much going on in kids’ lives, it seems much more than students used to have.

Elizabeth Mills, James Foster
My professional motivation comes from…my mother.  She modeled compassion, strength and professionalism on a daily basis.  Additionally, she supported my endeavors, celebrated my successes and helped me learn from my failures. I strive to do the same in the classroom for each of my students.

Michele Collins, Charles Helmers
When all is said and done, teaching…inspires me to help the students realize their potential.  To show them that they are unique individuals with qualities and strengths to accomplish many successes.

Julie Brauer, Highlands
When all is said and done, teaching…makes a difference.  It’s not only my goal as a teacher to motivate students to learn, but to inspire them to become better people.  I hope to be a positive influence on each student, both academically and personally.

Katie Labrador, Mountainview
I know I have impacted my students’ lives when… their answer at the beginning of the year and their answer at the end of the year to the same question has dramatically changed. “How do you feel about science?” They go from tears of boredom and frustration to cheers of enthusiasm and anticipation.  I love it.

Christina Bakoo, North Park
When I teach, I…meet the needs of each student in a creative way.  I challenge students and give them the confidence to know they can achieve anything with hard work and a positive attitude.  I want them to experience the joy in learning.

Shana Morda, Plum Canyon
My professional motivation comes from…my students and every year wanting to be a better teacher for them. This is why I try to consistently try to improve my teaching by finding new opportunities and resources for us to participate in.

Janis Titiriga, Rio Vista
The most important thing I do every day is…connect with my students. It may not be during class instructional time, these daily connections start with the greeting as students walk into the room, or when I see students not quite themselves and I ask if something is wrong.

Debra McGreevey, Rosedell
Teaching is more than just a job, it is…I enjoy going to school not knowing what unexpected event might happen.  My best plans can change in a second, when a student makes a discovery or statement that sends my lessons in another direction.  Every day is an adventure.

Shari Ramsey, Santa Clarita
I know I have impacted my students’ lives when…I see them outside of the school setting and they are excited to see me, even 14 years later.

Julie Lomeli, Skyblue Mesa
Teaching is more than just a job, it is…my motivation in life is to make children love learning.  I love learning and I hope to convey that to my students.

Kimberly Howard, Tesoro del Valle
My students inspire me to…put forth my best effort in the classroom each day.  I strive to seek new ways to motivate and challenge them to do their best.  My goal is to assist those needing additional support and challenge those who are ready to move ahead.

Dawna Countryman, West Creek Academy
My students inspire me to…connect with each and every one of them in a meaningful way so that they can reach their full potential through our daily interactions. I, in turn, strive to inspire them to follow their passions and their dreams.