The Nominees Are...

I'm so proud to work alongside and learn from these incredible teachers:

2026 Employees of the Year

Teacher of the year nominees!

1. Taylor Barrios

I asked the freshmen CORE students what makes Taylor Barrios a great teacher. They told me she is kind and chill but they still feel the seriousness of the topic she teaches. She is dedicated to making certain the students understand the content. She doesn't assign "fluff" assignments or busy work; every assignment has a purpose. Also, oddly, they tell me Barrios sounds like The Amoeba Sisters, YouTube channel sensations. As if all of this weren't endearing enough, she maintains her joy for teaching while training for marathons! Barrios is inspiring the next generation to strive for the best intellectually and physically. I respect the dedication and positivity Barrios brings to our CORE team. She's awesome!

2. Jazmine Garcia

As our Earth and Space Science teacher and a dedicated multi-sport coach, Jazmine is a standout educator who consistently goes above and beyond in everything she does. In the classroom, Jazmine works extremely hard to ensure that science is accessible to all students. She masters the difficult art of meeting every student at their level, regardless of their background or learning style. By making Earth and Space Science fun and interactive, she sparks genuine curiosity in her students and promotes academic conversations. More importantly, she fosters a truly inclusive learning environment where every student feels safe to ask questions, explore new concepts, and succeed. Her dedication extends well beyond the bell. Jazmine stepped up significantly this year by taking on coaching duties for not just one, but two sports: Flag Football and Girls Basketball. In both arenas, she has done more than just teach plays; she has built an amazing culture. She models leadership and teamwork, creating a supportive atmosphere where student-athletes thrive both on and off the court/field. Finally, Jazmine understands that education is a partnership. She proactively connects with parents, keeping lines of communication open and building trust. Parents know they have an ally in Jazmine, and that reassurance is invaluable to our community. Ms. Garcia is a blessing to Bonita High School. 

3. Taylor Grzechowiak

I am thrilled to recommend Taylor Grzechowiak for Teacher of the Year. Taylor's consistently positive attitude and boisterous, infectious personality make him a magnet for students and a pillar of our campus culture. He is deeply devoted to the freshman CORE program, where he builds strong relationships and sets students up for long-term success, while also challenging upperclassmen through his AP Psychology classes with rigor, care, and high expectations. Beyond the classroom, Taylor founded the BHS e-sports team and led them to a state championship last year-an incredible achievement that reflects his vision, commitment, and ability to inspire students in innovative ways. His impact on academics, school spirit, and student engagement is exceptional, and he embodies everything we value in a Teacher of the Year. 

4. Mandy Mendoza

Mandy Mendoza is a fantastic teacher working with both our honors freshman and senior English classes. Additionally, she is a mentor and advisor to countless students and her fellow peer teachers. She takes on the additional role of being the PACE/Senior Project Coordinator putting in countless hours supporting not only her own students but other seniors from other English classes. She cares deeply for all of her students. She pushes them to be better versions of themselves and offers honest and consistent feedback, as well as accountability when needed. Additionally, Mandy can be seen at numerous
extra-curricular events throughout the school year. She assists with student leadership, and can be seen frequently volunteering to help out at sporting events and other activities. Mandy bleeds green and white and exemplifies what it means to be a Bearcat through good and difficult times. Character matters and Mandy leads by example, truth and honesty in her communication, and a superb work ethic!