The Los Alamitos Education Foundation hosted a special event at Old Ranch Country Club on May 1 to recognize the Los Alamitos Unified School District’s top teachers of the year. The event was attended by a wide range of guests, including teachers, their family and friends, principals, school board members, LAEF staff and board members, and district cabinet members.
Ten outstanding Los Al teachers were honored at the event, one from each of the district schools, along with a credentialed employee who supports multiple district schools. Honorees included two district music teachers, Suzanne McElderry (Lee Elementary) and Robert Harrell (Oak Middle School); a drama teacher, Stacy Castiglione (Los Alamitos High School); a special education teacher, Michelle Anderson (McGaugh Elementary); a teacher on special assignment, Evan Grandon (District Office); a math teacher, Brandi Amundson (McAuliffe Middle School); and four elementary classroom teachers, Jennifer Holland (Weaver); Paula Pugh (Hopkinson); Morgan Cochrane (Rossmoor); and Tina Sudo (Los Alamitos). Each teacher, nominated by their peers, was recognized for their dedication, creativity, and passion for their students. Principals from each of the honorees’ schools spoke about their exceptional contributions and the positive impact they have had on their students and school communities.
“We are thrilled to be able to recognize these exceptional teachers and celebrate their achievements,” said Carrie Logue, LAEF executive director. “These teachers have gone above and beyond to connect with their students, create magic inside their classrooms, and leave a lasting impact on our community.”
The event also provided an opportunity for guests from all district schools to connect with one another, strengthening the bonds between teachers, administrators, and LAEF. LAEF is committed to supporting the education and enrichment of students in the Los Alamitos Unified School District, and events like this help to foster a strong sense of community and collaboration within the district.
“We are incredibly proud of these teachers and grateful for the positive impact they have had on Los Al kids,” said Felicia Gonzalez, LAEF Board president. “It was a true honor to celebrate their achievements and to recognize the hard work and dedication they consistently demonstrate in their profession.”
LAEF is the non-profit partner of Los Alamitos Unified School District. LAEF enhances educational excellence by providing after-school and summer enrichment programs to children in grades Pre-K to 12. LAEF impacts all students by providing significant funding for student mental health/wellness and STEAM instruction, as well as igniting new programs and providing valuable resources. For more information, visit www.LAEF4kids.org or call (562) 799-4700 Extension 80424.
