The Sacramento County Office of Education (SCOE) takes a leadership role in celebrating exceptional teachers and education staff each year by organizing countywide competitions. SCOE’s commitment to highlighting educational excellence across the region helps identify and honor the outstanding individuals who shape the future of our society. These teachers and dedicated education employees go beyond imparting knowledge. They ignite inspiration, provide guidance, and offer unwavering support to students, fostering intellectual, emotional, and practical growth. SCOE is proud to collaborate with local partners in these recognition efforts.
Last weekend, the Sacramento Republic FC partnered with SCOE to invite the district Teachers of the Year 2024 and 2023 County Classified Employees of the Year to be recognized on the soccer pitch before the match against the Miami FC at Heart Health Park, Cal Expo. Each honoree was acknowledged for their outstanding contributions to education. The two 2024 Sacramento County Teachers of the Year (who went on to compete at the state level) received special recognition: Jamie Davis (a 4th-grade teacher from Elk Grove USD) and Donja Harding (a 6th–12th-grade history and social studies teacher from the Natomas USD).
Before the October 14 match, SCOE treated the honorees to a delicious spread of barbecued sandwiches, salads, and desserts that set the stage for the exciting evening. They then entered the jam-packed stadium for a privileged treat: a trip to center field where the players were warming up. In front of a raucous, sold-out crowd of die-hard Sacramento soccer fans, Sacramento County Superintendent of Schools David W. Gordon joined the education staff members as they were each introduced to cheers and stomping from the crowd. The honorees were also presented with custom wooden plaques courtesy of the Sac Republic. The public recognition not only honored and motivated staff, it helped increase the visibility of the education profession at a time when SCOE is encouraging dedicated people to consider employment in education.
Returning to the stands, the educators were in the heart of the action, sitting with their families alongside hundreds of enthusiastic fans to watch the Sac Republic win. The evening was ablaze with the unmistakable glow of celebration, creating an unforgettable experience.