Mr. Yang is an English teacher at Lawrence Junior High School, known for his unwavering dedication to the success of his students both inside and outside the classroom. His teaching philosophy revolves around setting high expectations and providing the necessary support to help students surpass their goals. Mr. Yang challenges his students and ensures they have the resources and guidance they need to succeed. He is skilled in effective lesson planning, utilizing diverse teaching strategies and approaches that engage students through various activities, projects, and presentations. Mr. Yang adapts his methods to meet the individual needs of each student, fostering an inclusive environment where everyone can thrive. His positive attitude and approachable demeanor have earned him the respect and admiration of students and staff. Mr. Yang instills important values of caring and compassion, creating a nurturing school culture. Mr. Yang is the kind of teacher every student deserves, and his positive influence on the Lawrence JHS community is immeasurable.

Mr. Gonzalez, a 3^rd grade teacher at Roger Gehring Academy, integrates hockey into his teaching strategies, using it as a reward system to encourage academic achievement and positive behavior. This creative approach makes students excited to participate and strive for success. He dedicates his own resources to ensure his students have a vibrant and dynamic classroom. From decorations to materials, he goes the extra mile to create an atmosphere where students feel inspired and supported. His classroom is a safe, welcoming environment where every student feels valued and respected. He fosters a sense of belonging that allows students to thrive academically and emotionally.

By running multiple clubs, such as chess and gaming, he creates additional opportunities for students to explore new interests and develop critical life skills. These clubs are managed on his own time, demonstrating his unwavering commitment. Whether it's staying late to prepare lessons, finding creative ways to connect with students, or using his own resources to enhance their experience, Mr. Gonzalez consistently puts his students' needs first. Through his passion, dedication, and innovative spirit, Mr. Gonzalez has made his classroom not just a place to learn, but a place where students feel inspired, motivated, and excited to achieve their best.

For over 18 years, Mr. Johnson has been shaping young minds as a dedicated Government and Economics teacher at Coronado High School. Beyond the school year, he goes the extra mile by teaching biology during summer and winter breaks when needed. Mr. Johnson’s impact extends far beyond the classroom. As the head coach of Coronado’s boys and girls volleyball teams, he has led them to an incredible six state championships—including a three-peat with the girls and back-to-back titles with the boys. His leadership has earned him multiple Region and State Coach of the Year honors. Students, parents, and alumni frequently return to express their gratitude for the lasting impact he has made on their lives. His philosophy of growth mindset and grit has propelled his students and athletes to success in college, professional sports, and beyond—many of whom now give back to their communities.

Alec Rott a social/emotional teacher consistently demonstrates exceptional skill and dedication in working with students who present behavioral challenges. His approach fosters an inclusive and supportive learning environment, helping students thrive despite obstacles. He makes a significant positive impact, enabling several of his students to attend classes with grade level peers. Mr. Rott creates a positive and effective classroom environment by actively teaching and reinforcing appropriate behavior. This is achieved through a unique incentive system, where students earn "behavior bucks" for demonstrating positive actions. The "behavior bucks" can be exchanged for items they enjoy, such as snacks and gift cards. Notably, he invests his own resources to fund the classroom store, further demonstrating his commitment to fostering a motivating and supportive learning atmosphere.

Mr. Thomas Higgins a Physics teacher at Foothill High School, has profoundly impacted his students' lives with his clarity in teaching and his infectious humor. His ability to bring laughter into learning not only makes difficult physics concepts more relatable but also creates an atmosphere where students feel relaxed and engaged. His humor is the heartbeat of his teaching style, turning each lesson into an enjoyable and memorable experience. By blending education with laughter, Mr. Higgins ensures that his students look forward to every class, making him truly exceptional.

Mr. Schultz, a STEM Robotics teacher at Shadow Ridge High School, has truly ignited a spark of passion and curiosity in the hearts of his students. With his innovative teaching methods and unwavering dedication, he has transformed the classroom into a vibrant hub of creativity and learning. Through hands-on projects and engaging discussions, he empowers his students to explore the fascinating world of robotics, fostering not only technical skills but also critical thinking and problem-solving abilities. Beyond academics, Mr. Schultz serves as a mentor and role model, instilling confidence and inspiring his students to reach for their dreams. His impact extends far beyond the classroom, shaping the future leaders and innovators of tomorrow with his contagious enthusiasm and genuine care.

Serving nearly 700 students, Ms. Aytes prepares lessons that build Spanish vocabulary usage, multicultural education, and global awareness. As a Spanish teacher for grades k-8, Ms. Aytes makes a positive impact on student lives by emphasizing the importance of accepting all nationalities and being proud to represent your own culture. It is the same way long-time NHL fans now living in Las Vegas UKNIGHTED to become part of the VGK realm! As Spanish is a part of the weekly curriculum, the relationships Ms. Aytes builds with students during their elementary years have truly proven useful as they enter their more challenging years of middle school. Ms. Aytes’ unique role on the specialist team (PE, music, art, library, Spanish, STEM) allows her to make connections and be a consistent educator and mentor in her students’ maturing lives over the span of their years at her school. In addition to language acquisition and positive influence she bestows on children every day, Ms. Aytes also advises a student leadership council teaching students about planning, citizenship, and community service. Her association with this has helped students realize the importance of establishing habits of success as they prepare for a life beyond her classroom.