District honors 16 educators
School officials give out certificates, praise commitment teachers have toward fostering student growth
The William S. Hart Union High School District recognized its 16 Teachers of the Year Wednesday as representatives from each school site joined local families and residents to celebrate the district’s hardworking instructors.
Hart District leaders praised the teachers’ commitment to fostering student growth while members of the governing board awarded the educators with certificates of recognition during Wednesday night’s district meeting.
“They’re chosen by their peers and represent the best on each campus,” said Jayme Allsman, president of the Hart District Teachers Association, as she spoke from the dais about the prestigious awards.
The California Teacher of the Year program began in 1972 and has brought recognition to many exemplary teachers, Hart District spokesman Dave Caldwell said. With the Santa Clarita Valley possessing many outstanding teachers in the area, the Hart District takes pride in identifying and honoring the heroes of Hart District classrooms.
Hart High School’s Erica Hardbarger, a Biology teacher for more than 17 years, was named Teacher of the Year for the entire district.
Students know that if they have a problem, they can count on her to be there with a smile and an ear to listen, Caldwell said.
Hardbarger, who is now a teacher on special assignment with the Hart District, was previously honored by the Los Angeles County Office of Education as one of 60 Teachers of the Year across the county.
“The whole teacher of the year experience has been a bit overwhelming but very sweet, too,” Hardbarger said. “Thank you to the Hart community for your support and recognition.”