Educators and other school employees have the power to inspire and mentor students to life-lasting success.

On Thursday, the Office of the Fresno County Superintendent of Schools spotlighted five people at the 2025 Educator of the Year Awards at the Saroyan Theatre.

Rigorous Selection Process

The Educator of the Year selection process is rigorous and highly competitive. Each March, school districts across Fresno County submit nomination packets highlighting exemplary employees in multiple categories.

After an initial review and scoring by a diverse committee, the top-ranked applications advance to a final selection panel. There, evaluators identify the finalists in each category before casting a closed ballot to determine the winners.

Elizabeth J. Dooley, president and CEO of Educational Employees Credit Union, the event’s exclusive sponsor, emphasized the honorees’ impact on students and families across the region. “These outstanding educators should take great pride in their accomplishments and the amazing work they are doing daily to enrich the school experience for all students,” Dooley said.

Said Dr. Michele Cantwell-Copher, Fresno County Superintendent of Schools: “Tonight, we celebrated the educators and school employees whose work changes the trajectory of students’ lives. Their commitment and compassion don’t just support learning; they build futures, strengthen families, and elevate our entire community.”

Winners in the School Employee and Teacher of the Year categories are also eligible to advance to the California Department of Education’s statewide recognition programs.

School Employee of the Year

Vladimar Wells, Fresno Unified School District: Wells is a campus safety assistant at Yosemite Middle School. He has worked in education for 10 years. He is passionate about being a role model, emphasizing the importance of teamwork and positive reinforcement. Wells is known for his compassionate and caring nature, always accepting any challenge when a student is in need.

Administrator of the Year

Lucio Cortez, Laton Unified School District: Cortez is a principal at Laton High School. He has worked in education for 21 years. His vision is to create an environment where every student feels seen, valued and equipped with the critical thinking and problem-solving skills needed for success. Cortez prioritizes building a school culture that fosters a sense of belonging, purpose and confidence in every student’s potential.

Teacher of the Year

Maritza Ceballos, Office of the Fresno County Superintendent of Schools: Ceballos is a preschool master teacher at the Lighthouse for Children Child Development Center. She has worked in education for 18 years. Every moment in Ceballos’ dual-immersion program classroom is filled with energy and enthusiasm, making it a truly inspiring environment for growth and discovery. She believes building positive relationships with children is crucial in engaging them with learning.

Big Things in Small Places (excellence at a smaller district)

Sylvia Armendariz, Clay Joint Elementary School District: Armendariz is an Administrative Assistant at Clay Elementary School. She has worked in education for 25 years. Armendariz exemplifies greatness as defined as selfless exceptionalism by living out the school’s vision: One community, one goal.

Barnett Award (selfless service enhancing the community)

Ron Scott, Sanger Unified School District: Scott is the activities director at Sanger High School. He has worked in education for 24 years. Scott is a liaison between the Sanger community and school activities. He fosters an environment that encourages student participation and meaningful community service.