DEL MAR HEIGHTS — Five teachers from Torrey Pines High School were recognized on Dec. 19 for their outstanding contributions to educational excellence at the 2nd annual Educational Excellence Award ceremony hosted by the Asian American Parent Alliance of San Diego (AAPASD).
The event was held at Katana Sushi Restaurant in Del Mar Heights.
The awards ceremony, inaugurated last year, initially honored teachers from Canyon Crest Academy. This year, the focus shifted to Torrey Pines High School, one of five schools in the San Dieguito Union High School District.
Nominations for the awards were submitted by students and parents affiliated with Torrey Pines High School, resulting in 53 teacher nominations. AAPASD’s award committee selected five teachers for special recognition, each receiving a modest cash award.
Julianna Newell, a Science and AP Biology teacher at Torrey Pines since 2011, received the Gold Award. An alumna of the University of California Santa Barbara with a master of education from Alliant International University, Newell is known for her passionate teaching approach, combining classroom learning with projects and fieldwork.
“It was so nice to meet you all, and we very much appreciate that you are taking the time to show gratitude to your teachers,” Newell said. “Thank you so much for the recognition—what a great way to honor teachers.”
Silver Awards were presented to Teresa Barnes (career technical education), Robert Preske (math), Kara Adler (career technical education), and Abby Brown (math).
AAPASD organizes the annual awards to honor exceptional teachers and encourage educational excellence within the community.
“It’s a blessing to have so many exceptional teachers in our community,” said AAPASD representative Hong Wu. “With a shared goal of nurturing our students, upholding high educational standards, and inspiring them to achieve their dreams, our community grows stronger and succeeds when we collaborate, encourage, and support each other.”
AAPASD is a nonprofit organization that advocates for merit-based education and equal opportunities for students of all backgrounds. The group also encourages greater involvement from the Asian American community in California’s academic institutions. Contributions to the organization, a registered 501(c)(3), are tax-exempt, and community participation is welcomed.
For more information about AAPASD or to get involved, contact the organization via email.
