Every year 124 teachers at San Juan Hills shoot their shot to be voted Teacher of the Year. Out of the crowd three teachers came through as the candidates, Robert Lynde, Colleen Magana, and Stacey Olson. These teachers showcased above and beyond effort to the other teachers.
For this award for Teacher of the Year it is voted for by fellow teachers and staff, not by students like the Crystal Apple awards. The election and possible run off elections are completed Monday – Friday, November 15 – December 5. All teachers can vote and do not need to be a CUEA member. However music teachers hold their own elections.
Votes need to be verified by two separate people. Both must count votes for the election and verify by signing their names. The counters will then decide if there needs to be a run-off election. If there are two or three nominees, the teacher with the most votes wins. If there are only two nominees, then the principal will vote as a tie breaker. If four or more nominees then the winner must receive 51% of the votes. If there is no majority, a run-off election between two or three teachers will be held.
This year’s Teacher of the Year is Stacey Olson! Olson is highly involved at San Juan Hills Highschool. She is an Algebra 1 teacher, a CUSD Secondary math lead, a math department chair, and an instructional coach. This win will be Olson’s first high school Teacher of the Year award, but her third overall Teacher of the Year award.
“Ms. Olson always goes above and beyond for our students, she is engaging, creates a safe learning environment, and is always doing what is best for our students,” said Principal Cina Abedzadeh.
Olson connects with her students on a personal level. Instead of making her class another required GED, it is a fun and engaging place to learn. By getting to know them and finding how they learn best, Olson is able to support her students. Not every student is the same, so they should not be taught the same. She understands this and creates a personalized learning environment that any student can thrive in.
“One of my favorite parts of being a Stallion is the vibrant, connected community we have on campus. Attending games, performances, and so many other school events always reminds me how lucky I am to be here,” said Olson.
San Juan Hills is lucky to have Stacey Olson as a part of its staff. From attending school events, performances and games to personally getting to know many of the students, Ms. Olson is heavily committed and connected to San Juan Hills.
“She’s very understanding, goes out of her way to help her students, and sets an example for how teachers should interact with students,” said Gwen Beck (12) SJHHS student.
Olson’s dedication to teaching goes far beyond the walls of her classroom. Whether it’s helping students, or working to make improvements with the math curriculum she continues to be a positive force at SJHHS.
This year’s recognition as Teacher of the Year reflects not only on her professionalism, but also the genuine care she pours into her work every day. For many students, Olson is more than just a teacher, she is a mentor, an encourager, and a steady source of support.
As San Juan Hills celebrates another teacher for this year one thing becomes clear, Olson represents what it means to be a stallion. Her passion and leadership embody the spirit of San Juan Hills High school, and our community is better for it.
