Congratulations to Simone Spearman recently named 2011 Educator of the Year by the California League of High Schools. Spearman, an English teacher for 12 years (eight at Piner High) is as comfortable teaching advanced placement as she is in her double-block intervention program for English learners.

When not teaching, Spearman continues to educate and advocate for her students helping with programs that emphasize civil rights, civic responsibility, global awareness and student pride.

She describes her work as “trying my hardest to inspire, challenge, and champion my students to reach for their dreams.” As a testament to her success many of her past students say Spearman has made a lasting impression on their lives.

Spearman was one of 10 finalists chosen from Region 1 which includes high schools from Marin to Humboldt counties.

The other honored teachers are:

• Laurel Aiona, Rancho Cotate High School
• John Cortopassi, Santa Rosa High
• Ken Emery, Maria Carrillo High
• Sharon Howell, Casa Grande High
• John Linker, Healdsburg High
• Kyle Thompson, Elsie Allen High
• Catlin Tucker, Windsor High
• Sarah Wadsworth, Petaluma High
• Paige Warmerdam, Montgomery High