East County Educator Named 2025 California Teacher Of The Year

SAN DIEGO, CA — A San Diego County educator was named a 2025 California Teacher of the Year, the California Department of Education announced Tuesday.

Kristen LoPrell, a high school mathematics and AP calculus teacher at Grossmont High School in Grossmont Union High School District, was one of five educators recognized as the 2025 California Teachers of the Year.

"This is the honor of my career," LoPrell said. "Teaching mathematics is pure joy for me. My students make my days brighter and helping them realize they can do math is my favorite."

Grossmont Union High School District Superintendent Mike Fowler honored LoPrell for helping students discover the beauty of mathematics.

"She is an outstanding educator whose dedication to ensuring every student has a path to success is demonstrated by her fierce commitment to improving instructional practices and by the many students who have testified to the positive influence she has had on their lives," Fowler said.

State Superintendent of Public Instruction Tony Thurmond praised the winners for their dedication, hard work and innovation.

"These remarkable teachers have a lasting impact on their students, equipping them with the skills needed for success," he said. "They serve as an inspiration and exemplify the exceptional work happening in California schools."

The state also named six finalists for teacher of the year, including Mackenzie Levine, a third- to fifth-grade mild to moderate special education teacher at Perry Elementary School in San Diego Unified School District.

"Our students and our region are so lucky to have these stellar educators in our classrooms, ensuring belongingness and inclusivity so our young people can truly thrive in school and in life," said Dr. Gloria E. Ciriza, San Diego County superintendent of schools. "Without a sense of safety, of feeling like they can be their authentic selves and still be accepted and loved, our students can't be brave in their learning and growth. This is what these two educators excel at and what we can all learn from."

Presented by the California Department of Education and supported by the California Teachers of the Year Foundation, the California Teachers of the Year Program began in 1972 to honor outstanding teachers and encourage and inspire new teachers to enter the profession.

County offices of education nominate California Teachers of the Year applicants through their county-level competitions. The California Department of Education selection committees review applications, interview the teachers, and evaluate their rapport with students, classroom environments, presentation skills and teaching techniques. The State Superintendent of Public Instruction then selects the five California Teachers of the Year and the National Teacher of the Year nominee.