Azusa, CA – Azusa Unified School District named history teacher Rick Barsh as the 2016-17 Teacher of the Year for his ability to challenge his brightest students, support those who are struggling and create strong relationships with all students to propel them to success.

Barsh was honored by the District during its May 3 ceremony after he was selected as Center Middle School’s Teacher of the Year.

“Rick’s enthusiastic approach to teaching, coupled with the genuine relationship he establishes with his students, makes him well-deserving of this recognition,” Superintendent Linda Kaminski said. “I applaud Rick for making a difference in the lives of so many of our students.”

Barsh, who began teaching for Azusa Unified in October 2002, was presented with a congratulatory $100 check from Foothill Federal Credit Union and was accompanied by his family and Principal Saida Valdez of Center Middle School.

Barsh teaches U.S. and World History and has served as the Director of the Associated Student Body. District peers who nominated Barsh said he is supportive, caring, highly motivating, and is clear with his students about his expectations.

“The best part of my job is the privilege of serving students with the hope that somehow I may have impacted their lives in a significant way,” Barsh said. “I am very proud to be a teacher in the Azusa Unified School District and to work in this special community.”

Each year AUSD recognizes outstanding teachers for exemplary dedication to students and for going above and beyond what is expected in the classroom.

“Rick’s commitment to students and taking them to the next level is a wonderful example of what we value in our teachers here in Azusa Unified,” Board President Yolanda Rodriguez-Pena said. “We are proud to honor him for his achievements

Photo Caption:

AUSDTeacherofYear: Azusa Unified School District’s Teacher of the Year, Rick Barsh, (left) is joined by Principal Saida Valdez of Center Middle School, (middle) his wife Roxanne (right) and his children at a special recognition ceremony honoring him on May 3.