SCOE teacher Bill Garvey got an unexpected visit at the Sacramento Community Based Coalition (SCBC) yesterday morning. A crowd of colleagues, staff, and clients filed into his classroom, joined by Sacramento County Superintendent of Schools David W. Gordon, who made a surprise announcement: Bill Garvey will be the Sacramento County Office of Education (SCOE) Teacher of the Year for 2024.
Superintendent Gordon lauded the longtime teacher for his accomplishments, explaining that Garvey has taught at Leo A. Palmiter Jr./Sr. High School, the former Gerber Jr./Sr. High School, and the Boys and Girls Club of Greater Sacramento. Coming full circle, the teacher was presented with a plant grown by Palmiter students, plus balloons and treats.
Garvey currently teaches for both SCBC and SCOE’s Senior Extension Program. His classes are very small—usually about six students—which allows him to provide individual attention and customized lessons based on student needs.
Reneal S., one of Garvey’s clients, was in the classroom to see the surprise announcement. He spoke highly of his teacher, saying he’s “one of the best things” that's happened to him. With his teacher’s encouragement, he says he’s been able to overcome his fears about school—especially math.
Bill Garvey was one of four people nominated to compete this year for the honor of being SCOE 2024 Teacher of the Year. He has worked for SCOE since 2002, and was honored as SCOE’s September 2017 Certificated Employee of the Month.
Since 1988, SCOE has celebrated its teachers and the important work they do by selecting a SCOE Teacher of the Year. The teachers are nominated by parents, staff, management, or peers, and go through a selection process, answering written questions and being formally interviewed. Teachers report that this process helps them recognize their many accomplishments, coming away with a renewed sense of dedication and a reminder about why they entered the teaching profession.
Next Step: County Competition
As the SCOE Teacher of the Year, Bill Garvey is now eligible to move on to the countywide competition. He will be honored—along with teachers representing other Sacramento County school districts—during a Sacramento County Teachers of the Year ceremony (details to be announced). Two teachers will be named as the Sacramento County Teachers of the Year 2024 and will become eligible to compete at the state level.
About SCBC and Senior Extension
Sacramento Community Based Coalition (SCBC) is one of SCOE’s Adult Re-Entry programs, a collaborative effort between SCOE and the California Department of Corrections and Rehabilitation (CDCR). The programs are designed to assist those who are re-entering the community from prison and jail. With both in-custody and out-of-custody sites, the re-entry programs are designed using industry best practices that address criminogenic needs and client risk levels in a safe, welcoming, and inclusive environment.
To meet the needs of high school students who have unstable living arrangements, childcare responsibilities, and/or job requirements, SCOE partners with local school districts to offer the Senior Extension Program. Young adults, ages 17–21, who need a very flexible education model may enroll, and the program is tailored to each student’s specific needs. Each of SCOE’s Community Schools serves as a hub for Senior Extension.