The Chula Vista Elementary School District (CVESD) is proud to celebrate the achievements and contributions of its exceptional educators through the District Teacher of the Year Recognition Program. This year, 32 schools submitted nominations, showcasing the innovative teaching, creativity, and dedication that drives student success in the district.
Thirty-two site nominees were evaluated across a range of criteria encompassing an exemplary educator's essential qualities. These areas included engaging and supporting all students in learning, creating effective learning environments, demonstrating expertise in subject matter, planning instruction, assessing students, pursuing professional growth, maintaining strong communication skills, and exemplifying cultural sensitivity and a positive attitude.
Following a rigorous review process, CVESD is honored to announce the three educators selected as District Teachers of the Year. These outstanding educators will now move forward to represent the district in the San Diego County Office of Education’s County Teacher the Year selection process.
Our District Teachers of the Year are Ms. Olivia Fonzi from Otay Elementary, Ms. Tammy Regnier from Lilian J. Rice, and Ms. Kirsten Mena from Enrique S. Camarena Elementary.
As a sixth-grade teacher at Otay Elementary School, Ms. Fonzi is a dedicated educator who creates an inclusive, student-centered environment where every child feels valued and supported. Her commitment extends beyond the classroom, as she proactively connects with families, mentors students, and strengthens home-school partnerships. A relentless advocate for her students, she actively identifies patterns, raises concerns, and seeks solutions to ensure their success. In her role with Student Council, she empowers students to be leaders and make meaningful contributions to the school community. She excels in instructional design, using research-based strategies to make complex concepts accessible and data-driven approaches to refine her teaching. Ms. Fonzi’s passion, initiative, and unwavering dedication make her truly deserving of being one of CVESD’s District Teachers of the Year.
Lilian J. Rice Elementary School’s Special Day Classroom Preschool Teacher, Ms. Regnier, is one of CVESD’s Teacher of the Year. Ms. Regnier creates a well-structured, caring environment where young learners feel safe, supported, and ready to succeed. Her expertise in instruction and classroom management enables students with disabilities to thrive academically and socially. Beyond her teaching, Ms. Regnier mentors her fellow educators, sharing her knowledge and experience to strengthen special education practices across the district. She leads hands-on projects such as Rice’s school garden, organizes workdays, and oversees a thriving garden club as part of the district’s LEAD program. In her role as the school’s Wellness Coordinator, Ms. Regnier actively promotes a healthy, positive school culture through events like weekend walks and Wellness Wednesdays, ensuring the well-being of both students and staff. Ms. Regnier’s leadership, expertise, and commitment to Rice’s community make her an outstanding choice for one of CVESD’s District Teachers of the Year.
Ms. Mena, a CVESD Teacher of the Year, brings energy and innovation to Enrique Camarena Elementary. Through thoughtful daily check-ins and weekly team-building engineering challenges, she establishes an environment that emphasizes community and emotional well-being while promoting critical thinking and problem-solving. Ms. Mena’s deep understanding of curriculum and standards and openness to sharing best practices help elevate her entire grade-level team. Beyond her classroom, she plays a vital role on the Multi-Tiered System of Supports Committee, contributing to refining Camarena’s Positive Behavioral Interventions and Support system, which earned statewide recognition. She also helped create “Cam Krewes,” strengthening cross-grade relationships and building a more cohesive and supportive school community. Ms. Mena is an invaluable asset to Camarena and CVESD, making her a fantastic choice for one of CVESD’s District Teacher of the Year.
These distinguished teachers exemplify the highest standards of teaching and are dedicated day in and day out to supporting their students’ learning and growth. "We are incredibly proud of our District Teachers of the Year," said Superintendent Eduardo Reyes, Ed.D. "Their unwavering commitment to educational excellence and their role as mentors to their colleagues and students are commendable.”
CVESD congratulates its District Teachers of the Year for remarkable accomplishments and valuable contributions to the district.