Local educators, community leaders, families, and school officials gathered for a memorable evening at the historic Miners Foundry on Thursday, October 1, to celebrate the 2027 Nevada County Teachers of the Year.

Eight women pose together in front of a stone wall and red balloon arch at an event
This year’s distinguished honorees include (Photo from left to right): Tiffany Ramirez, NCSOS; Mikee Benuzzi, Union High SD; Susan Carcerano, Penn Valley Union SD; Meredith Regan, Chicago Park SD; Katie Alling, Nevada Joint Union High SD; Akasha Hyatt, Clear Creek SD; Vanessa Machado, Nevada City SD; Kimberly Floyd-Martinez, Grass Valley SD; Not pictured, Kerry Kelley, Pleasant Ridge Union SD.

Hosted jointly by the Nevada County Superintendent of Schools (NCSOS) and the Association of California School Administrators (ACSA), the annual awards dinner recognized outstanding educators selected by their respective districts for their unwavering commitment to student success. Highlights of the evening included the announcement of Katie Alling from Nevada Union High School, Nevada Joint Union High School District as the overall 2027 Nevada County Teacher of the Year.

Expressing deep pride in this year’s awardees, Nevada County Superintendent of Schools John Baggett commended the teachers for their leadership and passion inside and outside the classroom.

“Teaching is far more than a profession; it is a vital public service that forms the foundation of our community’s future,” said Superintendent Baggett. “The extraordinary educators recognized this year reflect the very best of public education. Through their ingenuity, patience, and unwavering belief in every student’s potential, they light the path forward for our children and our schools. We are immensely proud to celebrate their achievements.”

First created in 1972, the California Department of Education’s Teachers of the Year Program highlights exemplary public-school educators who inspire learning, foster inclusive classroom environments, and lead among their colleagues. Because district participation in the statewide recognition program is optional, being nominated stands as a unique testament to an educator’s exceptional impact.

The celebratory evening drew school board members, administrators, state and local officials, colleagues, and loved ones, underscoring Nevada County’s strong collective dedication to excellence in public education.

Local students also played a featured role in making the evening memorable. Beautiful seasonal floral centerpieces were designed and created by students in the Career Technical Education (CTE) Advanced Floral Design class at Nevada Union High School, with each district honoree receiving a centerpiece as a token of appreciation.

Congratulations to Katie Alling and all the 2027 district Teachers of the Year for their extraordinary service to Nevada County students and schools.