Santa Barbara County Board of Education Honors County School Employees and 2027 Teacher of the Year

May 16, 2026 - 01:41

The Santa Barbara County Board of Education has announced its annual awards, naming Alejandra Navarro, a dedicated educator from El Camino Elementary, as the 2027 Teacher of the Year. Alongside this top honor, the board also recognized four classified school employees for their vital contributions to local schools.

Navarro, who teaches at the elementary level, was praised for her innovative classroom methods and her deep commitment to student success. In her acceptance, she credited her students and colleagues for creating a supportive learning environment. The Teacher of the Year title is awarded to one educator each year who demonstrates exceptional skill, leadership, and impact on the community.

In addition to the teacher award, the board honored four classified employees who work behind the scenes to keep schools running smoothly. These staff members, who serve in roles such as administrative support, maintenance, and student services, were celebrated for their dedication and hard work. The board noted that these employees often go unnoticed but are essential to the daily operations and safety of the district.

The ceremony took place at a recent board meeting, where family, friends, and fellow educators gathered to applaud the recipients. The awards are part of a yearly tradition to highlight the excellence found in Santa Barbara County schools.