Grossmont High School Math teacher Kristen LoPrell and Monte Vista High School Automotive Technology teacher Michael Fleming have been named Grossmont Union High School District’s Teachers of the Year.
“The many students who testify to the impact that Kristen LoPrell and Michael Fleming have had on their lives demonstrate that their daily work is truly empowering students to build their best future,” said GUHSD Superintendent Mary Beth Kastan in a press release.
“These outstanding educators exemplify our core values of caring, collaborative, and innovative, and they represent the best of our District.”
With 20 years of experience as an educator and 35 years of experience as a master automotive technician, Fleming has served Monte Vista High School since 2008. He holds an associate degree in automotive, earned both bachelor’s and master’s degrees in education, and teaches advanced automotive classes at Miramar College. Fleming’s former auto shop students include military technicians, business-owners, engineers, scientists, and many others with careers in automotive and transportation. Fleming has students compete annually in the SkillsUSA automotive competitions, and this year one student advanced to the national championship where he placed 24th.
LoPrell has served as a Grossmont High School Math teacher since 2015 and currently serves as Math Department Chair. She has served as an academic league coach, freshman orientation leader, and math coach. She has also updated course pathways to provide access to all levels of honors math for all students. As an adjunct professor at Point Loma Nazarene University, where she earned both her Bachelor of Science in math and Master of Teaching degrees, she taught courses in research methods and best practices for statistical analysis and guided new teachers in math practices, classroom management, and instruction.
“Kristen’s ability to connect with students on a personal level, combined with her mastery of mathematical concepts has enabled her to inspire confidence and enthusiasm for learning in even the most reluctant learners,” said fellow GHS Math Teacher Emilie King. “Her dedication, passion and tireless advocacy for student success make her an invaluable asset to our school community.”
LoPrell and Fleming will now be considered for the San Diego County Office of Education’s Teacher of the Year Award, the winners of which will be announced later this year.
