Sweetwater District Teacher Named Semi-Finalist for State Teacher of the Year - 01/20/12

Yolanda Sherard of Rancho del Rey Middle among semifinalists

Recently named one of the five San Diego County Teachers of the Year for 2012, Rancho del Rey Middle School teacher Yolanda Sherard was named a semifinalist for California Teacher of the Year.

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Yolanda Sherard of Rancho del Rey Middle School displays her 2012 San Diego County Teacher of the Year Award

"I am proud that my work has been acknowledged, and humbled because I represent an amazing group of hard working and dedicated teachers," said Sherard. "Not only from Rancho del Rey Middle School, but the Sweetwater Union High School District and the state of California."

Sherard, who has taught at Rancho del Rey Middle School since 2002, is active in several activities both on and off campus. A U.S. History teacher, she is also the social science department chair at the school, she coaches AYSO soccer and is an advocate for issues related to homelessness in San Diego.

After being honored by both San Diego County and the State of California, Sherard is committed to continuing her efforts as an advocate for public education and for the recruitment and development of new teachers.

"I will continue to share with others in our state, including policy makers, what we as teachers believe will increase student achievement and to encourage others to enter the most rewarding of all professions, teaching," said Sherard.

Superintendent Dr. Ed Brand believes that this recognition is great accomplishment not only for Sherard, but for all Sweetwater District teachers.

"Yolanda is a great example of the quality teaching that goes on all across the Sweetwater District," said Brand. "We are all very proud of what she has accomplished and of her efforts on behalf of all teachers."

Sherard and the other semifinalists will be honored in Sacramento at the California Teacher of the Year Awards Banquet on February 6, 2012.