Dublin Teacher Of The Year, School Site Teachers Of The Year Named

DUBLIN, CA — The Dublin Unified School District announced its School Site Teachers of the Year and Teacher of the Year.

Lauren Apocada, a Special Day Class teacher at Murray Elementary School, was named DUSD’s Teacher of the Year for 2023-24. Her name will be submitted to the Alameda County Office of Education for consideration as the county teacher of the year.

“Lauren is an invaluable educator who has made a significant impact on the students at Murray Elementary,” Murray Elementary Principal Bethannee Witczak said in a statement. “Her unwavering dedication to her students and her commitment to going above and beyond in supporting their needs is truly commendable. As a lead teacher in the special education program at Murray, Lauren demonstrates exceptional leadership by providing support to the entire team to ensure that all students with IEPs receive the best possible care and education. Her impact extends beyond the classroom, as evidenced by the many older students who still come by to say hello and receive a hug from her. She is masterful at building and maintaining positive relationships with parents, empowering them to support their children's learning at home. Lauren's work is truly invaluable, and she is an asset to our school community.”

The other school site teachers of the year are as follows:

• Amador Elementary: Adrienne Conrad
• Dougherty Elementary: Jennifer Crothers
• Dublin Elementary: TJ Heintz
• Frederiksen Elementary: Lisa Klein
• Green Elementary: Trisha Hahan
• Kolb Elementary: Kristen Moore
• Murray Elementary: Lauren Apodaca
• Cottonwood Creek K-8: Krystal Shaw
• Fallon Middle School: Gabriel Manalac
• Wells Middle School: Denise Bunger
• Dublin High: Katina Lewis
• Emerald High: Jason Rockwell
• Valley High & York Alternative Learning Center: Mackenzie Hunt

"In Dublin, we're lucky to have such a strong team of educators, making it especially challenging to spotlight individual achievements," DUSD Superintendent Chris Funk said in a statement. "All our teachers play a crucial role in our students' success, and we're thankful for their hard work. While every teacher deserves recognition, it's a special honor to recognize our Site Teachers of the Year, nominated for this distinction by their peers, reflecting the profound respect and admiration they have earned. To be celebrated among such esteemed colleagues is a testament to their exceptional impact and commitment. Congratulations to each of our Site Teachers of the Year. Your dedication makes a real difference in our community and in the lives of our students."

RELATED:

• DUSD Names 2023-24 Classified Employees Of The Year
• Dublin Unified Names Teachers Of The Year