SPUSD Names District Teacher of the Year
South Pasadena Unified School District is proud to announce that Arroyo Vista 4th Grade teacher Jennifer Simon has been named the 2026 SPUSD Teacher of the Year. Mrs. Simon will represent SPUSD in the Los Angeles County Office of Education Teacher of the Year program, which recognizes educators who have shown exemplary dedication, compelling classroom practices, positive accomplishments, and professional commitment to their students.
Congratulations also to the following teachers who were named by faculty and staff members as their school’s Teacher of the Year:
• Jennifer Simon, Arroyo Vista, 4th Grade
• Cecily Phalen-Bartolome, Marengo, 4th Grade
• Janet Lim, Monterey Hills, Transitional Kindergarten
• Ani Atoyan, South Pasadena Middle School, English
• Dave Baughman, South Pasadena High School, Special Education
SPUSD’s outstanding teachers help ensure the success of our community’s children and young adults. “We appreciate them every day!”
About South Pasadena Unified School District
Established in 1886, the South Pasadena Unified School District (SPUSD) serves approximately 4,700 students within five schools including three elementary schools, one middle school and one comprehensive high school in South Pasadena, California. Nestled in the West San Gabriel Valley, SPUSD has earned a reputation for providing high quality public education, attracting families who value challenging academic programs and outstanding teachers. Consistently recognized for superior performance, SPUSD students earn honors at the local, state and national level. The District draws vital support from parents and community members through the South Pasadena Educational Foundation, local PTAs and booster clubs.
For more information, contact: South Pasadena Unified School District, Office of the Superintendent, scarroll@spusd.net.
