At the Santa Monica-Malibu Unified School District Board Meeting of November 16, 2000 held at the City of Santa Monica City Council Chambers, 1685 Main Street, the Board of Education recognized those teachers who were selected by their peers, as school site Teachers of the Year 2000-2001. As representatives of all the teachers in the SMMUSD, the 2000-2001 Teachers of the Year possess the skill, talent, creativity and dedication to the education of children that makes our schools such outstanding learning environments.

Of the ten teachers selected, one was designated SMMUSD District Teacher of the Year. This honor goes to Sharon Hart. Ms. Hart teaches Humanities to seventh graders at Lincoln Middle School. She, along with other staff members, was instrumental in organizing the drive that resulted in Lincoln Middle School being awarded the National Blue Ribbon Award for excellence in public schools. Sharon is a member of site governance and mentors new teachers. When describing her basic philosophy of teaching, Ms. Hart shares that "all students, regardless of race, class, gender, or religion, deserve an education that stimulates, challenges, and excites them. Teachers need to honor these facts with compassion, understanding, and respect." Sharon Hart feels strongly about her chosen profession and has said, ".....I can honestly say I respect the work that I do every day......Teaching has kept me stimulated and engaged in a caring community."

We congratulate Sharon Hart, District Teacher of the Year, and all of our exemplary teachers and thank them for giving the gift of education to our communities' youth.