Gilroy and Morgan Hill Teachers Get Top Honors

Two area teachers (one from Gilroy and one from Morgan Hill) were among 31 teachers recognized by the Santa Clara County Office of Education at its 43rd annual Teacher Recognition Celebration on Thursday, described as the oldest and most prestigious local awards given to teachers.

Maritza Salcido, a fourth grade teacher at Las Animas School, and Terri Craig, a teacher at El Toro Elementary School, were honored at the event in the Campbell Heritage Theater.

Each school district selected its honoree based on each teacher’s dedication to students, classroom skill and commitment to life-long learning, according to the district.

"There are good teachers, inspirational teachers, leaders, collaborators and people with a gift for drawing out the very best in everyone they touch. Terri Craig encompasses all those traits," the Morgan Hill Federation of Teachers wrote. 

Gilroy Unified School District Superintendent Debbie Flores had equally glowing things to say about Salcido.

"Children that are fortunate enough to have her as their teacher are truly blessed,” she told the Gilroy Dispatch.

Congratulations to both teachers!