Dr. Rona Zollinger, co-founder of New Leaf: A Sustainable Living Cooperative, which is part of Vicente Martinez High School, has won the Contra Costa County Teacher of the Year award. The award was announced Thursday night.
Zollinger has been teaching her environmental studies academy course for 11 years.
"Each day I walk in the footsteps of people who offer their hearts and their personal time toward the ideals of creating a healthy schools, community, and land," she said. "I am honored to be among them and serve as a voice for a collective vision of sustainability and innovation. Last night's Teacher of the Year dinner was a moment in my life that will forever remind me of the power of community and positive thinking."
"Rona brings a true passion and a talent for the art and science of teaching," said Rami Muth, Superintendent of the Martinez Unified School District. 'One of Rona’s main gifts is her ability to bring together people with diverse perspectives and work for a common goal. She is truly an exceptional educator and well deserving
of this special recognition."
Zollinger was selected from a group of 21 teachers from throughout the county who were named Teacahers of the Year in their own districts. There were three finalists selected from that group - the other two were from San Ramon and Moraga - and Zollinger was announced the winner at the annual dinner in Concord Thursday night.
Stay tuned to Martinez Patch for updates on this breaking story. And congratulations to Dr. Rona Zollinger for a well-deserved honor.
