Lincoln Middle School teacher Veronica Rylander was among the Alameda County teachers honored at the 33rd Annual Alameda County Office of Education (ACOE) Teacher of the Year Awards ceremony on Oct. 6. The ceremony took place at the Castro Valley Center for the Arts.

Rylander, who teaches drama, English and social science for sixth through eighth grade, was one of 18 teachers honored at the event. Rylander first learned she received the award back in May, (“Alameda Middle School Teacher Given District Award,” May 26; https://alamedasun.com/news/alameda-middle-school-teacher-given-district...).

Alameda County Superintendent of Schools L.K. Monroe hosted the event. She led in recognizing the 18 teacher honorees, representing the more than 11,000 educators across Alameda County, who map the path to success for every child, in every school, every day. Each teacher was recognized with videos, awards, presentations and speeches.

In Rylander’s video, she talked about her teaching philosophies.

“My philosophy in setting up any week or any month is how can I get them to think broader than this singular subject, interact with each other as much as possible, and somehow enjoy school,” said Rylander in her tribute video.

Rylander has been teaching for nine years, initially as a special education teacher before transitioning to her current subjects, according to ACOE. She reinvigorated the school’s drama program, has proven her effectiveness as a core teacher and is a leader who talks with staff about inclusivity. Rylander recently led a training on teaching Reconstruction and helped the district develop anti-racist curriculum.