Case Studies

Educator of the Year Awards

The Educator of the Year Awards is a special ceremony that celebrates and honors the incredible educators of Fresno County who go above and beyond in shaping the lives of their students. These dedicated individuals inspire, motivate, and empower the next generation, fostering an environment where students can thrive academically and personally. The awards provide an opportunity to recognize the hard work, passion, and commitment of those who play such a crucial role in the success and growth of their students, making a lasting impact on both their educational journeys and futures.

This year’s winners, from left to right are as follows: 

Administrator of the Year 
Dr. Tachua Vue, Clovis Unified School District – Vue is the Principal at Tarpey Elementary School. She has worked in education for 22 years. Every student on Vue’s school campus is celebrated, embraced, and nurtured through individual challenges. Students are not only educated in the classrooms but are also taught “mindful moments” where they calm their minds, contributing to their sense of support, solace and security.

Teacher of the Year 
Benjamin Canzano, Clovis Unified School District – Canzano is an Adapted Physical Education Specialist. He has been a teacher for 23 years. Canzano’s primary focus as a teacher has always been on equal access to the physical education curriculum and inclusion for The Educator of the Year awards are generously sponsored by Educational Employees Credit Union (Thank you Beth!),

School Employee of the Year 
Nicole Potter, Fresno Unified School District — Potter is an Elementary Library Media Technician at Powers-Ginsburg Elementary School. She has worked in education for 14 years. Nicole also enjoys reading to classrooms to inspire students to love reading. She ensures all students can access physical and electronic books to encourage and excite literacy.

Barnett Award (selfless service that enhances the community) 
Lee Strange, Sanger Unified School District – Strange is a Curriculum Support Provider. She has worked in education for 14 years. In her classroom, learning isn’t just a task, but a journey filled with discovery, growth, and endless possibilities.

Big Things in Small Places (excellence from a smaller district) 
Kristopher Ingrao, Orange Center School District – Ingrao is a Maintenance and Transportation Supervisor. He has worked in education for 12 years. Ingrao is proud of his responsibility to ensure students have a safe, clean and pleasant environment at school. Collaborating with staff and the community on school events and functions is a rewarding part of his job because he can contribute to unique memories. 

Educator of the Year is exclusively sponsored by Educational Employees Credit Union.