Derek Tahara, a third grade teacher at David Lubin Elementary School, has been recognized as a Sacramento County Teacher of the Year by the Sacramento County Office of Education (SCOE). Mr. Tahara has worked for the Sacramento City Unified School District for 24 years. He spent 18 years teaching sixth grade at Ethel I. Baker Elementary before moving to his current position.
Mr. Tahara attributes his decision to become a teacher and athletics coach to the example set by his parents, who were dedicated to public service and volunteerism in Sacramento.
“Once students feel loved, welcomed, and respected by their peers and teachers, they are open to ideas, challenges, and establish a partnership that intrinsically motivates them to improve… When I step foot on our campus, my goal is not to make it through the day, but to make my students’ and colleagues’ day,” Mr. Tahara said.
The recognition took place on Friday, August 22. The event was attended by SCOE officials as well as Sacramento County Board of Education Trustees O. Alfred Brown Sr., Vanessa Caigoy, Heather Davis, and Youth County Board Member Nairobi Dunbar. Bethany Hancock from Elk Grove Unified School District was also honored during the ceremony.
