EDUCATORS OF THE YEAR, HERE'S TO YOU

There are more than 36,000 school employees across Riverside County.

Seven have been voted as this year’s best.

They are the Educators of the Year as named by the Riverside County Office of Education.

After being nominated by their peers, they entered the selection process. Starting in early February and ending in early March, winners found themselves surprised at work by co-workers, family members and the county superintendent himself, Edwin Gomez, with the news that they had won.

The winners, along with the Teachers of the Year named in 2023, will be recognized at the Celebrating Educators Luncheon on May 7 at the Riverside Convention Center.

Here’s a look at the seven honorees for this year.

Gabriella S. Zlaket, Counselor of the Year

Zlaket, the daughter of a farmworker and member of an immigrant family, graduated from Riverside’s Arlington High School before a journey that took her to UC Berkeley and Harvard University, a county schools news release states. Since 2003, as a counselor at her

former school, Zlaket has worked to use data to help students and keep them on track for graduation and careers. She’s also the lead counselor for students learning English.

“My life was changed by so many educators who took my hand and guided me and believed in me. And all that I’m doing, and all that my fantastic team and colleagues and school family are doing, is just paying it forward,” Zlaket said in the release. “We are investing in our future because

our kids are our future.”

Forcina moved up to her job supporting the principal at Canyon Springs High School in Moreno Valley after starting as a substitute in the attendance office. She handles registration and recognition events and coordinates meetings and payroll, while connecting with students, parents and employees.

“I love all of you, my students out there and the staff that is so supportive,” Forcina said after receiving the award, according to the release. “I’m so grateful for all of you, and I am looking forward to many more years with all of you.”

Michelle Forcina, Classified Employee of the Year

Michael Sattley, Classified Administrator of the Year

As the director of facilities services for the Hemet

PHOTOS BY WATCHARA PHOMICINDA — STAFF PHOTOGRAPHER School secretary Michelle Forcina, center, has been named one of seven Riverside County Educators of the Year. Here, she receives flowers from her son Steven and daughter Stephanie during a surprise visit at Canyon Springs High School in Moreno Valley, where she was announced as the county’s Classified Employee of the Year on Feb. 9.

Forcina wipes away tears as Riverside County Superintendent of Schools Edwin Gomez announces the honor Feb. 9at Canyon Springs High. At left is Principal Sean Roberson. “I love all of you, my students out there and the staff that is so supportive,” Forcina said.

Gabriella S. Zlaket

Sharon Nakama

Michael Sattley

Ryan Mulvanny

Cindy Vasquez

Emily Price