FONTANA, CA – Tracy Hofmann, a third-grade teacher at Virginia Primrose Elementary School, has been named Fontana Unified School District’s 2025-26 Teacher of the Year, marking the second time in her career she has earned this distinction. The recognition highlights her nearly three decades of commitment to helping students grow in confidence, character, and academic skills.

Hofmann has taught at Virginia Primrose for 29 years, creating a classroom environment where students feel safe, valued, and intellectually curious. By establishing positive connections, Hofmann ensures each student is comfortable taking risks, sharing ideas, learning from mistakes, and supporting one another.

“My favorite part about teaching is seeing the moment when my kids truly become confident,” Hofmann said. “They may not always be exactly where they need to be yet, but if a child starts taking risks, participating, and putting forth effort, that’s pretty amazing. It means you’ve built a strong relationship and they want to work with you to learn.”

Hofmann greets each of her students at the door with a fist bump or high five daily, reinforcing that they are seen and valued. In the first weeks of school, she intentionally provides collaborative, low-pressure activities that allow students to build trust and grow comfortable making mistakes, a foundation that carries into academic learning throughout the year.

Hofmann described Virginia Primrose as a family and has even had the opportunity to teach the children of her former students over the years, a full-circle experience that reflects her lasting impact.

“Tracy demonstrates an unwavering commitment to student success and excellence in teaching, as well as a strong passion for supporting every learner,” Superintendent Miki R. Inbody said. “Her classroom couldn’t have cheered louder when we shared the news. It’s a true testament to her outstanding impact both in her classroom and across Fontana Unified.”

Hofmann was recognized at the Feb. 11 Board of Education meeting alongside five Classified Employees of the Year:

  • Elizabeth Gomez, secretary at Wayne Ruble Middle School;
  • Mary Jane Schoenborn, Special Education teacher at Truman Middle School;
  • Laura Urbina, kitchen operator at Palmetto Elementary School;
  • Nadia Esmail, school site aid at Live Oak Elementary School; and
  • Felicia Catalano, custodian at Chapparal Academy.

“Each of these incredible classified employees plays a vital role in the well-being and success of our students,” Inbody said. “From maintaining safe and welcoming campuses, to preparing nutritious meals that fuel learning and greeting families as the first face they see each morning, their dedication creates the foundation for a positive school experience. We are deeply grateful for the care, pride, and heart they bring to our District every day.”

PHOTO CAPTIONS:

FUSD_TEACHEROFTHEYEAR1: Tracy Hofmann, (center, back row) a third-grade teacher at Virginia Primrose Elementary School, has been named Fontana Unified School District’s 2025-26 Teacher of the Year, marking the second time in her career she has earned this distinction.

FUSD_CLASSIFIEDEMPLOYEESOFTHEYEAR1: Fontana Unified recognized five District staff members as Classified Employees of the Year during a Feb. 11 Board of Education meeting: (from left to right) Elizabeth Gomez, secretary at Wayne Ruble Middle School; Mary Jane Schoenborn, Special Education teacher at Truman Middle School; Laura Urbina, kitchen operator at Palmetto Elementary School; Nadia Esmail, school site aid at Live Oak Elementary School; and Felicia Catalano, custodian at Chapparal Academy.