Vilma Herrera, a 22-year veteran educator, was commended for being one of the first to transition to teaching infants and toddlers when NLMUSD launched an Early Head Start program in 2017, and for her instrumental work in shaping the program in the years since. Her service to her colleagues as a teachers’ union representative was also highlighted. 

Olga Avina, a Head Start teacher, was lauded for going above and beyond to individualize her instructional strategies to reach all children in her classroom, especially those with behavioral challenges and disabilities. A positive presence in the classroom, she is also pursuing her master’s in early childhood education and representing early learning on a city commission. 

Dr. Duardo and Board President James Cross presented the awards during the February 7 meeting of the Los Angeles County Board of Education. Norwalk-La Mirada USD Assistant Superintendent Dr. Kristine Cvar and Preschool Program Assistant Director Cyndie Allen were also on hand to show their support. 

LACOE Head Start and Early Learning Division Executive Director Luis Bautista noted “how fortuitous it is to be recognizing two teachers who were once Head Start parents.” As the nation faces a severe teacher shortage, Bautista continued, “it’s thrilling not only to honor these fine educators for their service to children and families, but also to recognize that they are an inspiration to others who follow in their footsteps.” 

A committee of child development and education experts selected this year’s recipients from a pool of outstanding nominees. Selection criteria included implementation of curriculum to fidelity, exemplary adult-child interactions, creativity in the classroom, and continuously improving practices to be a model for others. LACOE awarded each recipient with $500 in classroom supplies from Lakeshore Learning, which also donated classroom supplies and gift cards to each awardee.  

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The Los Angeles County Office of Education (LACOE) is the nation's largest regional education agency. LACOE supports and protects the education and well-being of LA County's nearly two million children through an equity lens. For more information, visit www.lacoe.edu.