Fresno County Educator of the Year

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The Educator of the Year awards program began in 1991 as a partnership between the Fresno County Office of Education (FCOE) and EECU. A sculpture entitled "The Three R's" was created by the late artist Clement Renzi. This sculpture, commissioned by EECU, serves as a focal point for the awards program and symbolizes the importance of education. Each year this program proudly recognizes the outstanding achievements and commitments of Fresno County teachers, school administrators, and school employees. These individuals represent the high standards, hard work, and dedication ever present throughout the field of education.

EECU also commissioned a smaller Renzi sculpture which is given to each year's award winners. The winners are selected from among all classified employees, administrators, and teachers in the thirty-four districts in Fresno County. Each year, awards are presented at a formal evening ceremony, funded by EECU, at William Saroyan Theater. This program celebrates the educators' achievements and successes, and shares their vision with the entire education community.

2025 Fresno County Educator of the Year Program

2025 Award Winners

Employee of the Year

Vladimir Wells
Campus Safety Assistant, Yosemite Middle School
Fresno Unified School District
Misty Her, Superintendent

Administrator of the Year

Lucio Cortez
Principal, Laton High School
Laton Unified School District
Lupe Nieves, Superintendent

Teacher of the Year

Maritza Ceballos
Master Teacher - Lighthouse for Children, Early Care and Education
Office of the Fresno County Superintendent of Schools
Dr. Michele Cantwell-Copher, Superintendent

Employee of the Year Finalists

Vladimir Wells

Sylvia Armendariz

Alvaro Cobian

Maria De La Torre

Administrator of the Year Finalists

Lucio Cortez

Ann Maura Cervantes

Rhonda Lodridge

Ronald L. Scott

Teacher of the Year Finalists

Maritza Ceballos

David Maynez

Emily Rogalsky

Hollie Stanford

Teacher with students

NEWS & RESOURCESEXCELLENCE IN EDUCATION

Two women reviewing document

NEWS & RESOURCESFINANCIAL PLANNING RESOURCES

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NEWS & RESOURCESNEWSLETTER

Students with cap and gowns

NEWS & RESOURCESSTUDENT GRANT PROGRAM