IUSD Announces 2023-24 Teachers of the Year

Margot Tyson, 6th grade teacher at University Park Elementary has been named IUSD’s Elementary Teach of the Year!

Mrs. Tyson currently leads the University Park 6th grade team and is a leader on campus. She is respected by the University Park team for her efforts to support all students and to continually improve teaching and learning while encouraging students to embrace kindness and civic responsibility.  Over the summer, Mrs. Tyson developed a program for history classes to engage students and improve listening comprehension skills.  University Park implemented her program, and the next year, scores soared!

Mrs. Tyson’s colleagues say she provides English language learners new to the school with a warm environment to grow and learn while collaborating with teachers and staff to share best practices for teaching English language learners.  As part of her role as the school’s multicultural day coordinator, she organizes student performances and booths.  Her commitment to school spirit is evident, as she actively participates in events such as Trunk or Treat and the Harvest Cup and Hoops Classic every year, cheering on her students.  Mrs. Tyson is a student-centered teacher who tirelessly works to support students and her peers.  

Sherilyn Cammarato, English Language Arts teacher at Venado Middle School, has been named IUSD’s Middle School Teacher of the Year!

As an English Language Arts and English Language Learner lead teacher, and reading specialist, Mrs. Cammarato’s wholehearted investment in all of her students, including newcomer English language learners, is instrumental in creating inclusive and equitable learning environments for all students. Venado teachers and administrators say that she is always eager to share best practices, mentor educators and facilitate professional development in English Language pedagogical strategies. Her guidance has impacted both new and experienced teachers, enhancing the overall quality of education at Venado for all students. 

Mrs. Cammarato helps build a strong bridge between the school and the diverse families it serves, creating a supportive educational atmosphere. Her dedication and talent is not limited to the classroom. She actively participates in Venado's Multi-Tiered Systems of Support Team, School Site Council (SSC), and Professional Learning Communities, ensuring that the needs and concerns of English language learners and other at-promise students are at the forefront of decision-making processes. Her proactive approach has made her an indispensable voice in shaping policies and practices on campus that benefit all students. She genuinely cares about what is best for students and demonstrates that inside and outside of the classroom. Her professional, conscientious and thoughtful approach is a testament to her unwavering commitment to the field of education. 
 

Kristie Donavan, Mathematics teacher at Woodbridge High School, has been named IUSD’s High School Teacher of the Year!  

Mrs.Donavan’s impact on Mathematics instruction has been significant.  Twice in three years, she was a finalist in the prestigious Presidential Awards for Excellence in Mathematics and Science Teaching program.  Most recently in May 2023, she was one of seven educators from California to earn what’s considered the highest honor bestowed by the U.S. government for science, mathematics, engineering and computer science teaching in kindergarten through grade 12. 

“Kristie taught me… Kristie showed us… Kristie explained…” are some of the most common first sentences heard when speaking with Math teachers in IUSD. Since 2007, she has taught all levels of mathematics, effectively supporting a model that includes co-teaching with a special education teacher, as well as personally developing and teaching multiple strategic intervention programs to support students.  

Mrs. Donavan She has served as the Professional Learning Community lead for countless courses and has successfully helped transition Woodbridge High School's Mathematics department to standards-based grading, and developed and piloted new Enhanced Math and Math Foundations courses. Additionally, she has created and provided professional development for all IUSD teachers.

Woodbridge High teachers and administrators say that with grace, passion and positivity, Mrs. Donavan serves as a model for student-centered teaching and learning while demonstrating compassion for everyone on the Woodbridge High School campus.