The Steve Allen Champion of Education Award will be presented to Linda Del Cueto, superintendent of Local District Northeast, who has dedicated her career to serving students, educators, and communities. The non-profit business advocacy group also will honor elementary performing arts teacher Steven Baxter with its Innovation in Education Award for bringing creativity, excitement and a love of learning to the classroom.
“Linda and Steve are outstanding educators who have spent their entire careers working on behalf of students,” said Superintendent Austin Beutner. “We are proud of them and congratulate them on their well-deserved recognition.”
Ms. Del Cueto is product of Los Angeles Unified schools and a lifelong educator. She started her career teaching English at Nimitz Junior High and has held numerous teaching, administrative and leadership positions. She also has established partnerships with local businesses and California State University-Northridge to expand college and career opportunities for graduates.
“I am passionate about providing all students with learning opportunities that focus on high academic standards, innovation and a curriculum that responds to changing student interests and needs,” she said. “We want them to graduate as life-long learners and engaged global citizens for 21st century success.”
Mr. Baxter began working for Los Angeles Unified as a substitute teacher in 2000. He joined the district as an elementary theater teacher in 2004, and teaches at several elementary schools each week throughout the Northeast San Fernando Valley.
“Not everyone recognizes the power that the arts have in our lives and how they can be the spark in our kids' education,” he said. “My daily goal is to ensure that our kids are having meaningful, collaborative, and engaging educational experiences, learning not only theater strategies but building character along the way.”
Board members representing Local District Northeast schools also said the awards are well-deserved.
“I know that Steven Baxter inspires his students to reach for the stars every day,” said Board Member Scott M. Schmerelson. “I am also particularly happy to see Linda Del Cueto being recognized for the dedication and tireless attention to the needs of kids that she has demonstrated during her long and distinguished career with Los Angeles Unified. I have worked closely with Linda over the years and she epitomizes every noble and selfless quality that we expect from our career educators. Congratulations to both Ms. Del Cueto and Mr. Baxter for this recognition!
“It’s great to see a leader like Superintendent Linda del Cueto recognized as a Champion in Education,” said Board Member Kelly Gonez. “Linda works tirelessly with school leaders, teachers, students and families, as well as her Local District Northeast team, to ensure our schools are strong and supported. Congratulations to Linda on this honor.”