2023-24 Teachers of Promise

Curtis Nava is an Education Specialist at College Park Elementary School.  According to Mr. Nava's colleagues, he is someone who jumps in with both feet and his infectious enthusiasm not only supports a sense of belonging in his classroom but across the entire school community for all students.  He works with each student to support their needs academically and social emotionally.  He plays soccer and basketball with them and helps with the chess club for all students at lunch. He works tirelessly to ensure his students are learning and staying on task with well-planned lessons and engaging activities.  He diligently prepares for IEP meetings with parents and is excellent at expressing kindness and support.  He also works collaboratively with school staff to support the needs of Special Education students.   

Ayanna Lewis is a Music and Vocal Teacher at Cadence Park School who continually looks for ways to engage her students, instilling a love of learning.  She encourages students to explore the arts and helps them find their passion while teaching important concepts and lessons.  Ms. Lewis also strives to create a strong sense of community within her classroom while building meaningful connections with her students, families, and the Cadence Park staff. She makes positive contributions within her Professional Learning Community and is co-coordinator of the Cadence Park equity team.  The Cadence Pake team says that she radiates positivity and care for education and is a true light and inspiration.

Samantha Zimmerle is a Mathematics Teacher at Portola High School and exemplifies dedication and passion.  She has not only demonstrated an extraordinary commitment to teaching but transitioned to the Math I Co-Level Lead last spring, contributing significantly to the growth and development of Math I. Her leadership also shines with the creation and implementation of the new Math IAB/CD course, advocating for an online program that caters to individualized student data and goals. According to her peers, what truly sets Ms. Zimmerle apart is her remarkable ability to connect with students. Through interactive and engaging lessons, she ensures that every student grasps the material, checking for understanding multiple times and in multiple ways. It is important to her that all students are able to access the material and feel successful. Ms. Zimmerle puts in extra hours outside the classroom as a Freshman Cheer Coach, a Learning Lab teacher, and a Model United Nations advisor. She is also a common presence at many school events. Ms. Zimmerle is a dedicated educator as well as a role model and mentor. 

Vivian Rangel is an English Language Arts Teacher at Jeffrey Trail Middle School.  According to the school's teachers and administrators, from the moment Vivian began her observation as a student teacher, it was evident she would be a transformative teacher. She is curious, creative, collaborative, fun and innovative. She is committed to continuous improvement and inspiring her students to engage with the content.  Ms. Rangel transforms herself and her classrooms into a themed learning space, where she incorporates her student’s interests and backgrounds. Her colleagues continually recognize her for her constant flow of ideas to improve student learning. She observes her peers and requests feedback, all in an effort to be an excellent teacher.