It is the first time a Hart School District teacher has been chosen California Teacher of the Year.
In a press release issued out of Sacramento, the state superintendent’s office described the top five teachers in the state as ambassadors for the profession who go above and beyond to educate, inspire, and empower students, families, and communities.
“In a year that might be the most challenging in all of our lives, these five inspiring teachers have made profound differences in the lives of their students and communities,” Thurmond said. “I’m proud that these educators are receiving this prestigious honor for their continued effort to rise above the challenges and connect with students even during unimaginable circumstances.”
Mr. Klipfel was chosen by his peers at Saugus High School this past spring. On September 16, 2020, the Hart Governing Board honored him as the District Teacher of the Year, the second time in his career to be chosen. On October 1, 2020, Mr. Klipfel was named one of ten Los Angeles County Teachers of the Year.
“I am honored, humbled, and grateful that my time serving, challenging, and supporting young people has been recognized in a way that brings much deserved attention to the educators, students, and families of Saugus and the William S. Hart Union High School District,” Mr. Klipfel said in an earlier statement. “My fellow educators are heroic and inspiring professionals, and they deserve the broad recognition that comes with this honor. Finally, I am especially grateful to my countless mentors, heroes, and supporters. They are the shoulders that I now stand upon.”
“I consider Jim Klipfel to be one of the finest teachers I’ve ever known, said Hart District Superintendent Mike Kuhlman. “Jim is passionate, dedicated, and relentless in his concern for his students. Those fortunate enough to be enrolled in his history classes will likely work harder than ever before. In the process, they will discover that they are capable of much more than they ever thought possible. Jim is an outstanding teacher who helps his students think deeply about life’s lessons, their responsibility to rectify social injustice and their obligation to come to the help of people in need. We are so very proud of Jim and happy for the Saugus Community.”