In honor of Teacher Appreciation Month, I am pleased to announce the recipients of this year’s inaugural Educator of Distinction Awards. These exceptional educators from the 56th Assembly District have demonstrated an unwavering commitment to excellence in education and have made significant positive impacts on the lives of their students.
Teachers make an untold number of sacrifices in the name of ensuring students receive the best education possible. That is why I am thrilled to recognize their unrivaled dedication to the betterment of our youth.
Congratulations to this year’s awardees!
Award Recipients:
Mrs. Elizabeth Dain
Elizabeth Dain is a special education teacher at Palm Elementary in the Hacienda La Puente Unified School District. Mrs. Dain’s commitment to students and their overall well-being resembles what every educator strives to be in their career. When one thinks about leading with heart and putting students first, Mrs. Dain does this instinctively. Furthermore, although she was hired to work within special education parameters, she provides support to all students, staff, and the community.
On any given day, morning drop-off at elementary schools includes patience, consistency, and supporting students who have difficulty separating from parents or family members. When called upon, which is a daily occurrence, Mrs. Dain provides students with comfort, reassurance, and emotional support. Her interactions with students are positive and encouraging. Mrs. Dain effortlessly builds relationships with students, allowing them to have a secure attachment to an adult on campus.
Once relationships are formed with students, Mrs. Dain continuously provides a safe space so students can regulate their emotions. She provides structure to students who may not have that security at home. Students know she will support them academically and emotionally. For instance, students who do not bring lunch or forget lunch know Mrs. Dain will provide them with lunch, should one be needed.
Clubs are a part of Palm’s student culture. She has supported students in our leadership club, as well as provided additional academic support after school. Her aim in supporting students is to assist in building their leadership skills as well as to support students who are having difficulties with reading. She is instilling core skills within students so they become active and productive members of our community.
Our students, staff, and community are fortunate to have such a committed educator as part of Palm and the HLPUSD family. We are grateful for her commitment and dedication in creating confident and well-adjusted students within our district.
Ms. Cynthia Lippstreu
Ms. Cynthia Lippstreu has been a valued employee of the district since 2004 and currently teaches Mathematics and Project Lead the Way (PLTW) Engineering courses at El Rancho High School. During her tenure, she has contributed her expertise to various site and district-level academic committees and has served as an advisor to numerous student organizations, including the ACE Club, Robotics Club, PLTW programs, and the Competition Traditional Cheer and Song teams.
In addition, she has served as the Varsity/JV Head Coach for both the Girls and Boys Tennis teams. Every year, she organizes several successful student fundraisers, such as clothing drives and electronic waste recycling events, to benefit campus programs and initiatives.
Ms. Lippstreu is known for her unwavering commitment to the school community. She is always willing to support in any capacity and frequently volunteers her time.
Dr. Alysia Odipo
Alysia Odipo, Ed.D., is the Assistant Superintendent of Educational Services for Los Nietos School District. She previously served as director, principal, assistant principal, literacy coach, and first-grade teacher. She holds a Doctorate in K-12 Urban Education from USC and teaches at UC Irvine and UMass Global.
She travels to Kenya each summer as a board member for Friends of Yimbo, a nonprofit organization that supports three villages in the Yimbo area of western Kenya.
Mr. Ricardo Ramirez
One of Nogales High School’s core belief statements is that “a strong community uplifts all,” and we are proud to recognize Ricardo Ramirez as a shining example of what it means to be part of the Noble family! He works tirelessly to support and empower our entire Noble community.
Ricardo is someone who makes countless personal sacrifices for our students. His unwavering dedication helps students unlock their full potential, and he never hesitates to take initiative when support is needed. Ricardo understands that fostering confidence, grit, and self-belief is essential for students to achieve their goals, and he makes that a central part of his work.
Ricardo deeply understands the transformative power of higher education and helps students achieve real results. He recognizes the vital role education plays in uplifting our community and is passionate about helping underrepresented students access every opportunity available to them. Ricardo’s commitment, heart, and leadership continue to inspire everyone around him.