Carol Canfield: Ramona Unified Teacher of the Year
Montecito High School (MHS) language arts teacher Carol Canfield is Ramona Unified School District’s 2013-14 Teacher of the Year.
Superintendent Robert Graeff and Assistant Superintendent Anne Staffieri presented the award to Canfield in her classroom on Thursday morning, March 28.
“Now in her sixth year at Montecito High, Carol has pioneered courses in both math and language arts, has been instrumental in leading numerous innovations at her school, has provided strong leadership in the high school’s accreditation process, is one of a handful of district teachers piloting 21st century technology with classroom iPads, and teaches multiple academic subjects on a daily basis,” Graeff said in an email to district employees announcing the selection.
The superintendent highlighted Canfield’s belief in each student’s potential and insistence day-in and day-out that all students will learn in her classroom.
“Carol is a true testament to good teachers everywhere and a wonderful representative for our entire school district,” said Graeff.
In October, Canfield will compete for recognition as San Diego County’s Teacher of the Year, along with 50 other teacher nominees from across the county, at the annual Salute to Teachers celebration.
All students deserve to learn in a safe and welcoming environment, regardless of their background or abilities, said Canfield.
“It is of utmost importance to me for all students to be given respect and understanding, regardless of what
their background is, what their home life is, or what their motivation and abilities are. I believe that a relationship between me, the student, the student’s family, and the entire school family is vital,” she said when describing her teaching philosophy.
MHS Principal Dave Lohman praised Canfield’s teamwork abilities and dedication to her students.
“Carol has taken ‘more time and support’ for our students to a new level,” said Lohman. “Establishing Toro Time, a directed intervention during the school day, has enhanced the school’s ability to reach out to students who ‘don’t get it.’”
Canfield received Montecito High School Teacher of the Year recognition in 2008-09 and in 2012-13, and received Ramona Unified’s Golden Bell Award in 2010-11.
In addition to English, Canfield has taught mathematics, world history, and earth science, and instructed special education and English language learning students. She was also involved in implementing RUSD’s online learning program.
Canfield is Montecito’s coordinator for the Western Association of Schools and Colleges (WASC), co-chairperson of MHS Intervention/Study Hall Development, and a member of the RUSD Title One Committee.
Along with her teaching duties, she is active in Ramona Junior Fair as board member, website coordinator, and awards chairperson. She also is a member of the MHS American Cancer Society Walk for Life Team.
She earned her Bachelor of Arts in history from California State University San Marcos in 2008, and Master of Arts in Education from Concordia University Irvine in 2012.