Congratulations to Simone Spearman, the Piner High English teacher, who was recently voted California State Educator of the Year. That puts Sonoma County on top!

Spearman claims her father always told her to "follow my bliss," even if that meant forgoing monetary rewards.

She describes her work as "trying my hardest to inspire, challenge, and champion my students to reach for their dreams."

"Even though my hair is turning gray prematurely, I love teaching. Even though the mandates of No Child Left Behind make me want to pull out my graying hair, I love teaching. Even though my fellow classmates at Stanford expressed disbelief when I told them I was going to teach high school English I love teaching."

As a testament to her success many of her past students say Spearman has made a lasting impression on their lives. Fortunately, Spearman chose to 'follow her bliss.'