Sixteen of the best teachers in the William S. Hart Union High School District were recognized as Teachers of the Year by the Governing Board Wednesday.

Selection criteria included personal growth, commitment, personal attributes and professional skills.

Julie Huffman (center), Hart District Teacher of the Year

The District Teacher of the Year is Julie Huffman, a chemistry teacher at Golden Valley High School.  Julie is also one of 16 teachers being considered for Los Angeles County Teacher of the Year.  She was one of seven teachers in the Hart District chosen two years ago to help transition and implement the Next Generation Science Standards.

In addition to Julie Huffman, the other teachers honored Wednesday night were:

Robert Walker, Academy of the Canyons

Jonathan Nez, Arroyo Seco Junior High School

April Soria, Bowman High School

Alexis Crane, Canyon High School

Paula Bae, Hart High School

Kathleen Clare, Hart @ Home

Chris Rippe, La Mesa Junior High School

Frank D’Elia, Placerita Junior High School

Tami Pearsall, Rancho Pico Junior High School

Crystal Hilstein, Saugus High School

Patricia Hibbert, Sequoia School

Rebecca Skye Ostrom, Sierra Vista Junior High School

Brian Stiman, Valencia High School

Ron Manalastas, West Ranch High School

Stella Theuer, Golden Oak Adult School

The California Teacher of the Year program, which began in 1972, has brought recognition to exemplary teachers, paying tribute to their resolute efforts. With the District’s many outstanding teachers, the staff takes pride in identifying and honoring its own heroes of Hart District classrooms.

Junior High School Teachers of the Year

Small School Teachers of the Year