Pleasanton Teacher Finalist For $30K All-Star Educator Award

PLEASANTON, CA — Pleasanton special education teacher Christine Fitzsimmons has been named one of five finalists for NBC Sports Bay Area & California's 2025 All-Star Teacher Award. If she wins, she could win $30,000 for her school, and be celebrated at a San Francisco Giants game. In 2023, Erik Bertelson, a music teacher at Wells Middle School in Dublin, won the top prize.

Fitzsimmons, known affectionately as "Fitz" by her students, has taught special education for 25 years, according to an NBC Sports biography, which includes video footage. At Alisal Elementary School, Fitzsimmons aims to foster a joyful, play-based learning community based on songs, games, creativity, and hands-on experiences. She also encourages students from around the school to interact with her students, have fun with them, and celebrate difference. She sponsors an annual "Different is AWESOME" spirit week each year to celebrate difference and diversity in all its forms.

Fitzsimmons has also maintained close relationships with students and their families after their early elementary school years, and continues to mentor and encourage students along their educational journeys. She also collaborates with non-profits and community-based organizations supporting adults with disabilities to make sure her students succeed long after they leave her classroom.

See here to vote for Fitzsimmons and money for Pleasanton schools. Voting is open until 12 a.m. on Monday, June 2 at 11:59 p.m.

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