Carole Schwab, Placer County Teacher of the Year

Auburn, California,  – Representing the best in Placer County’s teaching profession, Carole Schwab was honored recently as the 2008-09 Teacher of the Year. Schwab was praised for her ability to create exceptional learning opportunities by her superintendents, students and colleagues at Woodcreek High School, Roseville Joint Union High School District.

Schwab has a BA in mathematics from California State University, Sacramento and teaches ninth through 12th grade math. ‘As I tell my kids,’ she says, ‘I have the best job in the world.’

An evening to celebrate the ten nominated educators took place at The Ridge Golf & Event Center in Auburn, California on September 15, 2008. County Superintendent of Schools, Gayle Garbolino-Mojica presented the shining stars from the county’s total of 172 teachers in 16 districts. In addition to Schwab, two finalists were also honored: Terry Barker, a Del Oro High teacher in the Placer Union High School District, and Jolene Christensen, who teaches at Cirby Elementary School in the Roseville City School District.

Teachers also recognized at the reception were (listed alphabetically by district):

Kimberley Morris, Skyridge Elementary in Auburn Union Elementary School District
Joan Slabaugh, Olive Grove Elementary in Dry Creek Joint Elementary School District
Tom McCormick, PCOE Alternative Education in Placer County Office of Education
Trina Lee, Rocklin High School, Rocklin Unified School District
Laurie Vaillancourt, Rocklin Elementary in Rocklin Unified School District
Brett Ratcliff, Blue Oaks Elementary in Roseville City School District
Judith Geduldig, Oakmont High School, Roseville Joint Union High School

The annual event is the result of an extensive selection process. Nominated applicants submit their biographies and answer questions that reveal their personal qualities, as well as their stand on current issues, social and community influences and educational challenges. The selection committee includes education professionals and two previous Teachers of the Year. From interviews, letters of reference, and careful evaluation, the overall objective is to focus on the contributions of the teaching profession and to highlight those educators whose special qualities are exemplary.

Candidates progress from district selection to their county, where one is named Teacher of the Year. They then compete at state level in November and from there, at national level in the spring.