Co-Chairs: Lynne Sullivan and Nick Duretta
Since 1991, Pasadena Rotary has been honoring Pasadena Unified School District teachers. The goal of the program is to foster, encourage, and honor excellence in teaching and dedication to education. In addition, Rotary wishes to demonstrate in a concrete way that the community cares about our public schools.
With funding from the Pasadena Rotary Foundation, awards of $1,750.00 are given each year to five teachers from the Pasadena Unified School District. In addition, $500.00 is presented to each recipient's school. As a special part of the event, videos of classroom activity and student and colleague interviews are shown for each teacher. Awards are for teachers at all levels, elementary, middle school, and high school.
Each of these educators reflects the dedication and care that define PUSD classrooms, creating meaningful learning experiences and strong connections with students every day. Their commitment not only supports academic growth, but also helps inspire confidence, creativity, and a lifelong love of learning among students throughout the district. We thank them, and all PUSD teachers, for the lasting impact they make across our schools.
2026 winners
Michael Birnbryer-Lao (Blair High School)
Click here to view video.
Jocelyn Strickland (Jackson Elementary)
Click here to view video.
Ani Karapetyan (Eliot Arts Magnet)
Click here to view video.
Maria Barajas (Hamilton Elementary
Click here to view video.
Sonia Covarrubias (Willard Elementary)
Click here to view video.
