LAUP has recognized six Southland educators by presenting them with its second annual Los Angeles County Preschool Teacher of the Year Award for exemplifying excellence in the Early Care and Education field.

The award presentation occurred during an evening event attended by about 400 guests in the Dorothy Chandler Pavilion in Downtown Los Angeles. Michelle Tuzee, an Anchorwoman with Eyewitness News, KABC-TV, Channel 7, was the Mistress of Ceremonies.

The award recipients are Lisa Alonso, who teaches at Charter Oak Unified School District in Covina; Angela Glucksman, who teaches preschool at Nestle Avenue Elementary School in Tarzana; Christine Lyall, who teaches at Culver City Unified School District, Office of Child Development; Maria Leon, who teaches at Pueblo Center in Pomona; Claudia Guzman Mendoza, who teaches at the Joy of Learning - Guzman Family Day Care in Rowland Heights; and Valerie Soohoo, who teaches at LAUNCH Preschool in Torrance.

"These teachers all have one thing in common," said Dr. Gary Mangiofico, Chief Executive Officer of LAUP. "They share a deep-seated commitment for going above and beyond the call of duty to ensure that their students are receiving the quality preschool education they deserve to help them succeed in school and in life. They are a shining example of what the teaching profession is all about."

To win this prestigious award, nominees had to demonstrate a strong commitment to a quality preschool education, and dedication to making a positive contribution to the children they serve. This includes using creative instructional strategies, as well as contributing to the well-being of children, the preschool and community.

Tuzee, the Channel 7 news anchorwoman, stressed the importance of Early Childhood Education for her three children. "I can't imagine their lives not having that influence," she explained.

LAUP's Preschool Teacher of the Year Awards were open to LAUP and non-LAUP teachers alike. LAUP received about 100 nominations from throughout Los Angeles County.