Top Teacher Finalists Announced For Contra Costa County

CONTRA COSTA COUNTY, CA — A knock at the classroom door turned into a career milestone Monday as county officials stepped inside to name four educators as finalists for Contra Costa County Teacher of the Year, turning ordinary school days into celebrations.

The Contra Costa County Office of Education revealed the 2026–27 finalists during unannounced visits that drew cheers, applause, and, in some cases, stunned silence before the news sank in.

The finalists are:

• Evette Evers-Threatt, Pittsburg Unified School District / Martin Luther King Jr. Junior High School
• Julee Henderson, Acalanes Union High School District / Acalanes High School
• Stephanie Sado, Orinda Union School District / Wagner Ranch Elementary School
• Rebecca St. Michel, Brentwood Union School District / Brentwood Elementary School

County Superintendent Lynn Mackey led the surprise visits, joined by principals, district leaders, parents, and family members who packed into classrooms to witness the announcements. One finalist, Henderson, received the news by phone while out of town.

“Seeing the joy on their faces and the pride of their administrators is a powerful reminder of why this work matters,” Mackey said, pointing to the daily demands teachers face and the persistence required to inspire students.

Officials selected the four finalists from a pool of 22 nominees put forward by local school districts, the county office, and the Contra Costa Community College District. The recognition places them among the county’s most accomplished educators and sets up the next stage of competition.

Last year’s honorees—Corey Spainhower of Liberty High School and Kaitlin Marchesi of Vista Virtual Academy—advanced to the state level after earning the county title.

This year’s winners will follow the same path, moving on to compete for California Teacher of the Year, where classroom impact, leadership, and innovation take center stage.