Beyond the Classroom: Santa Maria-Bonita Honors Educators at 2nd Annual Awards Gala

SANTA MARIA, Calif. (KEYT) - The second annual "Excellence In Education" awards gala recognized the work of some of Santa Maria-Bonita’s top district educators.

The event is a new tradition to recognize teachers and other school employees who go above and beyond the call of duty.

The awards come in three categories, acknowledging Classified Employees such as custodians and aides, Certificated Employees — the teachers, coaches, and licensed mentors — and Administrative Employees like principals and district officials.

The formal gala took place on Friday night at the Santa Maria Fairpark Convention Center, acknowledging the work of 28 honorees known throughout the district for their outstanding contributions.

Top winners were announced at the gala, including Katie Ibarra, Program Specialist for Special Education, who has only held that position for about a year, and Lucy Castaneda, 30-year office manager at El Camino Junior High.

Sentiments from the top winners align with the gala’s ultimate mission, which is to celebrate achievements as much as to foster inspiration and connection.

Honorees say they wouldn’t be winning anything if it weren’t for everyone else they work with, directly or indirectly.

SchoolsFirst Federal Credit Union is the leading community sponsor of the festive evening with awards presentations, live music, and catered food.

The highlighted honorees say their work is challenging but the rewards go beyond being recognized, and that they view the teams they work with as extended family.

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