Encinitas Union School District Teacher Named San Diego County Teacher Of The Year

ENCINITAS, CA — An Encinitas Union School District teacher has been named a 2026 San Diego County Teacher of the Year.

Katie Andan of La Costa Heights Elementary is one of five Teacher of the Year honorees recognized by the San Diego County Office of Education.

The other honorees are Mark Jeffers of Mount Miguel High School in Grossmont Union High School District; Robin Larson of PRIDE Academy at Prospect Avenue in Santee School District; Mike Neumann of Southwest High School in Sweetwater Union High School District; and Stacy Williams of Transition Resources for Adult Community Education in San Diego Unified School District.

"These five outstanding teachers exemplify the profound impact that dedicated educators can have on students, families, and their communities," said Dr. Gloria E. Ciriza, San Diego County superintendent of schools. "By bringing encouragement, joy, and opportunity into the lives of young people, they help students build confidence, discover their potential, and imagine brighter futures. We are honored to recognize their extraordinary leadership and commitment."

San Diego County's Office of Education has coordinated the Teacher of the Year program for more than 35 years. District-nominated educators completed applications and were interviewed by a panel of judges representing the office, the 9th District PTA and school districts across the county.

The winners were surprised at their schools or district offices May 14 and 15 in coordinated announcements with school leaders and San Diego County Credit Union as part of the Excellence in Education program.

The program, formerly known as Salute to Teachers, recognizes educators across the region serving nearly 500,000 students. The county and SDCCU also honored all district Teachers of the Year earlier this month at a ceremony before selecting the five county winners.

The winners will advance to the state-level competition.