The Rotary Club of El Dorado Hills and local education leaders came together May 8 to honor teachers who go above and beyond.
El Dorado County Superintendent of Schools Ed Manansala opened the event by commending the soon-to-be-honored teachers who have created exceptional partnerships with the community and parents to lift up local students.
El Dorado Union High School District Superintendent Ron Carruth added, “Our schools are amazing.”
First up, Oak Ridge High School Principal Aaron Palm recognized long-time English teacher Rose Santa Iglesia.
“It’s impossible to capture everything she does,” Palm noted. The principal read notes of praise shared by Santa Iglesia’s fellow teachers.
Comments included: “She relentlessly interrogates literature like nobody's business” and “Rose’s tenacity makes her the best.”
Calling her tough and uncompromising, Palm commended Santa Iglesia for her high standards and expectations. “Rose refuses to settle,” Palm said. “It’s excellence or nothing.”
Rescue Union School District Superintendent Jim Shoemake announced Laura Dosh as the district’s educator of the year. After 34 years in the classroom, Dosh will retire at the end of this school year.
Shoemake solicited a comment from his son, who was in Dosh’s classroom many years ago. He immediately remembered her, and the superintendent shared his son’s thoughts, “She was a great teacher. I respect her and she’s so nice.”
Marina Village Principal Levi Cambridge commended Dosh for her “love, kindness, firmness and clarity.” He said during visits to Dosh’s classroom he’s impressed with her amazing strategies to keep students focused. “They know how much she cares,” Cambridge said.
Dosh’s relationship with fellow teachers is also exceptional, he added, explaining she’s a tremendous collaborator and resource.
Buckeye Union School District Superintendent Dr. David Roth gave his district’s award to a teacher who has hit all the right notes — Valley View Charter Montessori band teacher Anthony Carafone.
His positive attitude, love for music and spirit have transformed the school’s band program, Roth said, noting at its start the band’s concerts were barely attended and “a little painful.” Now, the superintendent boasted, concerts are standing room only with excellent young musicians on the stage.
“It really is a gift to the entire school community,” Roth shared.
Principal Paul Stewart noted his appreciation for Carafone’s passion and dedication to all students; his band room often serves as a place for struggling students who need to take a break.
“He has such a positive vibe,” Stewart said.
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