Mary Blanton 2012-2013 LBUSD Teacher of the Year

El Morro Elementary School teacher Mary Blanton has been named 2012-2013 LBUSD Teacher of the Year. Superintendent Sherine Smith remarks, “Mary is the kind of teacher that every parent dreams of having for their children. Her students are captivated with the lessons she engages them in. We are proud of our outstanding teachers in Laguna Beach Unified School District, and Mary exemplifies the qualities and characteristics we expect.”

El Morro Elementary School Principal Chris Duddy continues, “Mrs. Blanton has an infectious love of learning. She is always prepared and develops creative, standards based lessons for her students in all subject areas. Students and parents LOVE having Mrs. Blanton as their teacher because she makes a personal connection with each student and knows their strengths and individual needs. She affectionately calls her classroom number 54, “Club 54.”

Assistant Superintendent of Instructional Services, Nancy Hubbell states,”Mary Blanton exemplifies what is possible in teaching, combining high levels of teaching expertise and collaboration, using technology to support instruction, and making learning a wonder-filled journey. We are very lucky to have Mary in LBUSD and representing our district as Teacher of the Year.”

Ms. Blanton shares her reaction to the announcement, “I work with so many spectacular teachers at El Morro and the District. I was stunned and very honored to be selected.”

Ms. Blanton began her teaching career at El Morro Elementary School in 1988. The El Morro Elementary School community of students, staff, parents and volunteers inspires her daily and she speaks glowingly of her years at the school. Ms. Blanton loves working for a District that is deeply committed to bettering the lives of children and families. She compliments her coworkers, who never stop improving their craft and have an impressive work ethic. Ms. Blanton’s husband is an LBHS alumnus and all of their three sons attend District schools.

Her favorite part of the day is the “a-ha” moment of learning for students and hearing how they share their excitement with their families. Ms. Blanton helped bring the National Education Association’s Read Across America program to El Morro Elementary School and has regular “Lunch with Alums” with her former students.

The Orange County Department of Education Teachers of the Year Program recognizes outstanding Teachers in Orange County. Finalists will be selected to represent the county at the Teachers of the Year state level. An awards dinner and ceremony will be held in October for all of the Orange County Teachers of the Year.