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News Release
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CONTACT: communications@lausd.net |
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE October 8, 2024 |
Three Los Angeles Unified Teachers Honored by
California State Superintendent Tony Thurmond
Los Angeles, CA (October 8, 2024) – Los Angeles Unified is proud to announce that two of its educators have been recognized as 2025 California Teachers of the Year by State Superintendent Tony Thurmond, with a third teacher named as a finalist. These educators serve as ambassadors of education and will represent our state for the calendar year.
Nicholas Westfall, a high school Physical Education teacher at Alexander Hamilton Senior High School, and Arby Jean Wolkov, a high school American Sign Language teacher at William Howard Taft Charter High School, were named as 2025 Teachers of the Year. In addition, Erica Lundy, a fifth-grade Gifted and Highly Gifted teacher at Welby Way Charter Elementary and Gifted-High Ability Magnet, was named a finalist.
“Congratulations to Nicholas Westfall, Arby Jean Wolkov and Erica Lundy for their outstanding achievements and dedication to their students,” Superintendent Alberto M. Carvalho said. “These educators represent the very best of our district, state and nation. Their passion and commitment are vital to our school communities, shaping the bright futures that each of our students deserves.”
“A huge congratulations to all the recipients of the teacher of the year awards,” Board President Jackie Goldberg said. “Great educators make such a difference in our students' lives every single day.”
“Seeing the state recognize our LAUSD teachers always fills me with joy and hope,” said Board Vice President Scott M. Schmerelson. “Congratulations to Nicholas Westfall of Hamilton Senior High School and Arby Jean Wolkov of Taft Charter High School for the incredible distinction of being California Teachers of the Year. I also want to congratulate Erica Lundy of Welby Way Elementary for being a finalist on the list of teachers of the year. You have all made LAUSD proud and serve as a confirmation that our students are learning from the best teachers.”
“It is quite an honor to be recognized as a California Teacher of the Year,” Board Member George J. McKenna III said. “State Superintendent of Public Instruction Tony Thurmond has awarded this honor to two exemplary LA Unified educators. Congratulations to all of the honorees, especially Nicholas Westfall, a physical education teacher at Hamilton High School in Board District 1.”
“The three educators honored by the Superintendent exemplify dedication and hard work for shaping the future of our students,” Board Member Dr. Rocío Rivas said. Their commitment has inspired our school communities and we are proud to have such outstanding leaders represent both our District and our state.”
“Congratulations to LA Unified’s fantastic California teachers of the year, including Mrs. Wolkov, who brings students and cultures together as an American Sign Language teacher at Taft High School in Board District 4,” Board Member Nick Melvoin said. “These teachers remind us that the real work of our schools is inside classrooms, and I’m grateful to celebrate that work!”
“Congratulations to our Los Angeles Unified educators on their recognition as 2025 California Teachers of the Year!” Board Member Kelly Gonez said. “Your skill and dedication have created an engaging learning environment that helps all our students succeed.”
For the most up-to-date information, please follow Los Angeles Unified on Twitter/X at @laschools and @lausdsup, Instagram at @laschools and @lausdsup and Facebook at @laschools and @AlbertoMCarvalho1.
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