August 9, 2024 - Livermore, CA - The Livermore Valley Joint Unified School District (LVJUSD) is pleased to announce that Dayana Albornoz, fifth grade teacher at Lawrence Elementary, has been recognized as an Alameda County Office of Education (ACOE) 2024 Teacher of the Year. Announced earlier this week in an ACOE press release, Albornoz is one of 19 honorees selected by 17 participating districts and regional occupational programs across the County who have been recognized for their individual dedication and excellence in the classroom.
Albornoz has been an educator for 17 years, and has spent her last seven years at Lawrence. “Ms. Albornoz epitomizes the essence of effective teaching; fostering an environment where students flourish academically and personally. She empowers her students by encouraging them to take on leadership roles which instills a sense of responsibility and ownership over their education. Her classroom radiates positivity, cultivating a safe and supportive space where students feel motivated to excel,” shared Principal Kristie Starkovich.
Albornoz is known not only as an exceptional educator, but also a trusted leader within the school community. She has mentored LVJUSD colleagues through her involvement in committees such as Lawrence’s Instructional Leadership Team and Leader in Me Student Lighthouse Team. Albornoz has also helped to mentor and inspire the next generation of educators in her work with California State University East Bay’s aspiring educator program.
“I am deeply honored and humbled to represent the beautiful community of Livermore as their Teacher of the Year. Just as it takes a village to raise a child, this achievement reflects the collaborative efforts and support I have received from my colleagues to be honored at this level. I did not reach this milestone alone and would like to acknowledge my principal, fellow educators, and the exceptional teachers with whom I work daily. Together, we strive for excellence in education,” expressed Albornoz.
Albornoz and fellow Teacher of the Year honorees will be recognized at ACOE’s 35th Annual Teacher of the Year Awards Ceremony on Thursday, October 3, 2024 at the Castro Valley Center for the Arts.
Photo courtesy of LVJUSD - Dayana Albornoz
