EAST WHITTIER – Machae Tessier, a second-grade teacher who has taught at Ocean View Elementary since 1997, was named one of 16 Los Angeles County Teachers of the Year on Sept. 29 by the Los Angeles County Office of Education.

Tessier was accompanied by family, friends and colleagues, who burst into applause when she received her award during a lunch for 600 educators and their families at the University City Hilton.

“I am very honored,” Tessier said. “This is my lifestyle, it’s what I do every day and just to know that other people recognize that is wonderful.”

The title puts Tessier in an elite group of teachers which represents the best of the 72,000 public school educators in the county. She advances to the California Teacher of the Year competition.

Tessier joined East Whittier City School District in 1993. She serves as Ocean View’s California Standards lead teacher for primary grades as well as the school’s language arts matrix committee chair.

Tessier also assists Ocean View colleagues with identifying individual strengths and talents.

“Machae is a wonderful teacher,” Ocean View Principal Tim Strand said. “She puts her kids first and she’s a tremendous asset to the school and community.”

In partnership with the Los Angeles County Office of Education, the California Credit Union awarded the 16 teachers with a $1,000 check. Lakeshore, another partner of the event, awarded $100 gift cards for classroom items.

“The District is extremely proud of Machae Tessier for her accomplishments,” EWCSD Superintendent Marc Patterson said. “The passion and commitment she demonstrates is an inspiration to everyone around her.”

Tessier was recognized for her dedication and commitment to her students. She said her calling in the teaching profession is to help students who struggle, regardless of their challenges.

“These are the events where we are really able to honor our teachers,” Los Angeles County Superintendent of Schools Dr. Debra Duardo said. “It’s an honor to be here and have the opportunity to meet the families and some of the colleagues who have supported you.”

Now in its 36th year, the Los Angeles County Teachers of the Year competition is the largest in the state and is part of the nation’s most prestigious honor for educators.

PHOTO CAPTION:

EWCSD_LACOE_TOY: Ocean View Elementary School second-grade teacher Machae Tessier was named one of 16 Los Angeles County Teachers of the Year on Sept. 29 by the Los Angeles County of Education. Tessier, who joined East Whittier City School District in 1993, received a check for $1,000 from the California Credit Union.