STAR Awards
Congratulations to our 2025 District STAR Award Honorees!
It was a joy to recognize the Spectacular, Terrific, Amazing, and Remarkable employees from across our schools and departments who go above and beyond each day. We proudly honored this year’s Teachers of the Year from each school site, along with our Classified Employees of the Year representing a range of essential roles and service areas throughout the district. From among this outstanding group, two individuals were selected for special district-wide recognition:
- District Teacher of the Year: Tom Philips, Mayfair Middle/High School
- District Classified Employee of the Year: Selina Lopez Padilla, Albert Baxter Elementary
BUSD Teacher of the Year - Tom Philips
We are excited to announce that Mr. Tom Philips has been selected as the Teacher of the Year for the 2025-2026 school year!
Mr. Philips is a vital part of the Mayfair community, dedicating 36 years to the instrumental music program, developing superior bands and orchestras, creating the 605 All-Star Band for the Rose Parade, and organizing successful events that inspire thousands of students while instilling a lasting passion for music.
Please join us in congratulating Mr. Philips for his well-deserved recognition as the BUSD Teacher of the Year for 2025-2026! We are proud to have him as part of our educational community!
BUSD Classified Employee of the Year - Selena Lopez Padilla
We are thrilled to announce that Ms. Selena Lopez Padilla has been named the Classified Employee of the Year for the 2025-2026 school year!
Making everyday magical: a home within our halls and hope within our hearts. Her exceptional dedication, professionalism, and positive attitude have made her an indispensable part of our BUSD team.
Please join us in congratulating Ms. Selina Lopez Padilla for her well-deserved recognition as the BUSD Classified Employee of the Year for 2025-2026! We are proud to have her in our district!
Teachers of the Year
-
Gilbert Guevara, Adult Transition
-
Ana Costa, Albert Baxter Elementary
- Sarah Schuessler, Bellflower Middle High School
- Kelly Sybesma, Craig Williams Elementary
- Georgina Semaan, Ernie Pyle Elementary
- Heather Greenwood, Foster Elementary
- Cindy Weeks, Frank E. Woodruff Elementary
- Laura Estrada, Intensive Learning Center
- Anneke Bartschi, Las Flores Home Education Independent Study Academy
- Helena Chong, Esther Lindstrom Elementary
- Kathryn Guernsey, Ramona Elementary
- Mark Johnson, Somerset High School
- Elizabeth Eagan, Somerset High School CCEA Teacher of the Year
- Amanda Waytas, Thomas Jefferson Elementary
- Lindsay Hunt, Washington Elementary
Classified Employees of the Year
- Stacey Abrego, Paraprofessional
- Gladys Awelewa, Clerical Services
- Dennis Coleman, Skilled Trades
- Gary Gatpandan, Transportation Services
- Woodie Grayson, Security Services
- Luis Lopez, Technical Services
- Martha Orme, Nutrition Services
If you'd like to relive some of the highlights — here are a few resources from the evening:
Watch the STAR Awards Ceremony
View the Event Program
See the Honoree Slides