Wendy Saldivar, a fifth-grade Spanish dual immersion teacher at Loara Elementary School in Anaheim, has been named one of the five 2027 California Teachers of the Year. State Superintendent of Public Instruction Tony Thurmond announced the recognition on Thursday, Oct. 8.
Fellow Orange County educator Brittany Walters, a kindergarten teacher at Dr. Peter Marshall Elementary School in the Magnolia School District, also received state recognition, being named one of four finalists for the statewide honor.
Both Saldivar and Walters were previously among six teachers recognized as Orange County Teachers of the Year in April. At that time, the Orange County Department of Education surprised the honorees at their campuses with visits from County Superintendent of Schools Dr. Stefan Bean, program sponsors, and members of their school communities.
With 12 years of experience, Saldivar focuses on helping students build confidence, embrace challenges, and recognize their own potential. She designs opportunities for her students to strengthen their Spanish and English abilities while exploring subjects like math and science through hands-on activities. In her classroom, students may use dry-erase markers directly on their desks for math problems, construct three-dimensional animal models to learn about volume, or collaborate to explain different problem-solving methods. Saldivar also extends learning beyond the classroom by organizing family engagement activities, such as a "Think Like an Engineer Night" event that connects students with bilingual professionals in science, technology, engineering, and math fields. When recognized at the county level in April, Saldivar stated that watching her students become "empowered as learners, leaders and contributors to their community is the most inspirational part of my work."
Walters brings 17 years of teaching experience to her kindergarten class. She emphasizes academic growth alongside students' social and emotional development, incorporating hands-on lessons, fostering strong family connections, and providing opportunities for students to build confidence through creative activities. Principal Alma Guzman noted Walters' dedication during the county recognition, stating, “What ultimately sets Mrs. Walters apart is her consistency and passion.” Walters also helped establish a partnership through Disney Musicals in Schools, which expands access to performing arts experiences for students.
Along with Saldivar, the other 2027 California Teachers of the Year include Katie Andan of La Costa Heights Elementary School in San Diego County, Gagik Galfayan of Woodrow Wilson Middle School in Los Angeles County, Edmund Maino of Tehachapi High School in Kern County, and Ashley Uraine of Yucaipa High School in San Bernardino County. Katie Andan was also chosen as California’s nominee for the 2027 National Teacher of the Year competition.
State Superintendent Thurmond commented on the state announcement, saying, “California’s Teachers of the Year represent the very best of our profession.” He added that they consistently ensure all students have opportunities to succeed. The California Teachers of the Year program, established in 1972, is presented by the California Department of Education with support from the California Teachers of the Year Foundation. The program recognizes outstanding educators for their impact on students, schools, and communities. County offices of education nominate candidates following their local competitions, with a state committee reviewing applications and evaluating classroom environments before the final selections are made.
Both Saldivar and Walters are set to join their fellow Orange County Teachers of the Year at the county’s annual recognition gala on Nov. 13 at the Disneyland Hotel. Saldivar will also be honored alongside the other 2027 California Teachers of the Year at a statewide gala this winter.
