BUENA PARK, CA – Buena Park Middle School teacher Kristina Walshe positively radiates joy at the idea of getting students excited about math and science, especially when new students are afraid of the daunting subjects.

Her unending positivity and exemplary work have earned her recognition as Buena Park School District’s 2021 Teacher of the Year.

“It feels great to be able to provide encouragement to our students, because so many of them come to me and say they hate math and science or they’re not good at either subject,” Walshe said. “It’s great to have some kids just say ‘I get it now’ because it feels like I’m making a difference.”

Walshe has served as a mentor to her peers and students in more than a dozen programs, including co-coordinator for her school’s Positive Behavioral Interventions and Supports (PBIS) team, a teacher leadership team member, math department chair and staff development leader for PBIS, college and career-readiness and technology.

“Ms. Walshe is such an amazing teacher because she makes everything seem fun,” eighth-grader Manuel R. said. “I never get bored when I’m in her class because she lets us think about how science and math can help us achieve our dream jobs. She makes science and math special.”

Walshe is a seven-year veteran of the District who holds a Bachelor of Arts in liberal studies, a master’s degree in education, two single subject credentials for math and science and a multiple subject credential, all from Cal State University Long Beach.

“I am beyond excited that Ms. Walshe not only represents the best of teaching at Buena Park Middle School, but the best of teaching across our entire District,” Buena Park Middle School Interim Principal Dr. Monica Luther said. “She always exhibits such passion, energy and dedication to our students and I know she will continue to impact lives for many years to come.”

Walshe said she is proud of the recognition, as it showcases how her encouragement is improving the entire community.

“We are so proud to have Kristina Walshe representing our District as Teacher of the Year because she truly is a positive source of energy for our students and teachers,” Superintendent Dr. Ramon Miramontes said. “She is involved in so many clubs and programs and her love of science and math has transformed so many of our students into real scholars.”

PHOTO CAPTION:

BUENAPARK_WALSHE: Buena Park Middle School science and math teacher Kristina Walshe has been named Teacher of the Year for the Buena Park School District, shining a light on her seven years of encouraging her students and colleagues.