On Friday, April 19, Tulare County Superintendent of Schools Tim Hire surprised the three winners named in the 30th Annual Tulare County Excellence in Education Awards program. The three winners notified were Alexa Barba-Tepper (2024 Administrator/Manager of the Year), Kristy Caesar (2024 Teacher of the Year), and Lisa Kruger (2024 School Employee of the Year).

 “The winners are all phenomenal educators, creatively addressing the needs of their students and the communities they serve,” Hire said.

In March, a selection committee of Tulare County business and education leaders met to review the nominees in each of the three categories. A total of 30 nominations were received this year from Tulare County school districts. Each nomination was reviewed and scored individually by every member of the selection committee.

Read more in the News Gallery Week.

Mohammed Abdullah (left) takes time to visit, check in, and share joy with the students in Monache High School's K1 classroom. We first met Mohammed when his older brother was enrolled in the AcCEL program classroom at Monache. Mohammed has maintained a connection with the students and staff in classroom K1. He is now a student assistant.

He is authentic with his interactions with the students. He can be anywhere on campus and notice a need of one of the students. He provides comfort and care without bringing any attention to himself. He is beloved by the students and staff. His maturity allows for him to offer guidance and friendship to his peers with special needs, with the upmost respect and dignity. His interactions with others are truly beautiful to encounter.