Teacher Of The Year Finalist Announced In Lake Forest

LAKE FOREST, CA — A Lake Forest early education teacher is being recognized for her phenomenal work in The Goddard School franchise system.

Vivian Ton, The Goddard School of Lake Forest teacher, is a 2025 Goddard School Teacher of the Year Award regional finalist.

"It means the world to be recognized for doing something I genuinely love," Ton told Patch. "Teaching young children is more than a profession to me; it's a lifelong passion that allows me to nurture confidence, curiosity and compassion from the very beginning."

The Goddard School Teacher of the Year Award recognizes extraordinary Goddard School educators who bring enthusiasm to teaching and inspire their students.

This year, more than 4,300 teachers from across The Goddard School's more than 640 locations were nominated by families and colleagues in four classroom categories — infant, toddle, preschool/pre-k and kindergarten, school-age.

"At Goddard, we believe that when educators are supported and empowered, they can unlock the wonder of learning for every child," Lauren Loquasto, senior vice president and chief academic officer, said. "Our Teacher of the Year honorees ignite their students’ curiosity and encourage them to explore their interests and the world around them. We are grateful for the joy and dedication they bring to their schools each day."

As a 2025 Teacher of the Year regional finalist, GSL gifted Ton a $1,000 cash award, branded Goddard merchandise, a framed certificate and a one-year subscription to the ChildCare Education Institute, giving her unlimited access to more than 200 professional development courses.

"Vivian places an emphasis on building strong relationships with families, mentoring fellow teachers and constantly seeking out ways to improve through professional development," said Parina Mehta, owner of The Goddard School of Lake Forest (Baker Ranch). "This achievement reflects the spirit of excellence she brings to our school, and we are honored to work alongside her each and every day."

For more information about The Goddard School and the Teacher of the Year Award, residents can visit GoddardSchool.com.