A math and science teacher at Camp Kilpatrick has been selected as this year’s Teacher of the Year by the Juvenile Court, Community and Alternative School Administrators of California (JCCASAC).

JCCASAC is a statewide conference dedicated to Juvenile Court Schools, bringing together administrators and teachers who serve some of California’s most vulnerable youth. Ty Kastendiek was selected by fellow educators through site teacher votes, making the honor especially meaningful.

With a career spanning multiple juvenile facilities, Kastendiek has shaped countless student lives through empathy, consistency and high expectations.

Kastendiek was also selected as LACOE’s nominee for the L.A. County Teachers of the Year awards last year while he was teaching at Camp Rockey.

“It’s always an honor,” he said. “I just strive to be the best every day.” Kastendiek says teaching is his joy and even though he’s been teaching for over three decades, he’s not ready to retire.

His philosophy is simple but powerful.

“I keep my basic philosophy of engagement, try to make it entertaining while keeping the content level high,” he said. “I just love learning and the more I love learning I like passing that onto other people.”

Kastendiek understands the challenges his students face.

“A lot of these students come with multiple layers of trauma, not understanding education level and conflict,” he explained. “All we can do is give them a place where there’s space and calmness and hopefully they can sort their life out.”

Earlier this month, Los Angeles County Superintendent of Schools Dr. Debra Duardo, along with Deputy Superintendent Dr. Ruth Perez, Chief of School Support and Transformation Mario Marcos and other LACOE leaders surprised Kastendiek with the announcement at Camp Kilpatrick. They visited several of his classrooms and spoke with students before revealing the news. The celebration included balloons and cake, which they shared with students. The group even joined in singing “Happy Birthday” to one of the youth.

Students describe Kastendiek as caring, deeply committed and invested in their success. They say he brings humor into the classroom, makes lessons engaging and explains concepts in ways that help them truly understand the material.

Kastendiek has created classrooms built on respect, engagement and belief in every student’s potential. His recognition as JCCASAC Teacher of the Year reflects not only his dedication to his craft, but his commitment to the young people he serves.