9 / 10
Top Notch Teacher:
Monsignor Edward Pace High School
Cristina Pla-Guzman, Miami
Gardens, FL
The best teachers understand that
achievement means more than a number
in a gradebook. It means helping students
discover their strengths and passions.
Theater teacher Cristina Pla-Guzman has
inspired several students’ passion for the
performing arts, and in her theater creates
an
inclusive
environment
where students from diverse
backgrounds feel welcomed
and
supported.
Several
members of Ms. Pla-Guzman’s
class nominated her for this
award because of the great
care she takes to support the
ambitions and dreams of all of
her students.
Arroyo Valley High School
Morgan Pelletterra
English teacher Morgan Pelletterra
is dedicated to helping students
discover their strengths and passions,
and spends her free time helping
her students prepare for college.
Bishop Guilfoyle High School
Jana Sidler, Altoona, PA
Teacher Jana Sidler brings art to
life by exposing students to various
genres, mediums and styles of
artistic expression.
Perry Central High School
Mary Jo Hagedorn, Leopold, IN
Foreign language teacher Mary
Jo Hagedorn brings boundless
energy and enthusiasm to her
classroom, making learning fun for
students at all levels.
Finalist
Yerd of the Year
Mesa High School
Paulina Verbera, Mesa, AZ
Nothing captures the energy and
excitement of the school year like
a yearbook filled with photographs
and achievements. Yearbook editor-
in-chief PaulinaVerbera has a passion
for journalism, and takes great care
to lead Mesa’s yearbook staff with
excellent organization, precision and
enthusiasm. In addition to yearbook,
Paulina is actively involved in concert,
symphonic and symphony orchestra
as a viola player.
Gilbert High School
Riley Brennan, Winsted, CT
Yearbook editor Riley Brennan is
an organized and passionate role
model for her peers, and helps keep
her school engaged and excited
about the yearbook process.
Parkway West High School
Ballwin, MO
Yearbook editor Maggie Walkoff
not only works to create an
incredible yearbook, but also to
mentor younger students, ensuring
that the Parkway West Yearbook
program stays alive and thriving.
Finalist