Alisal Union School District announces Teacher of the Year
The Alisal Union School District is pleased to announce the 2026 Teacher and Classified Employees of the Year. Their work ethic and commitment to excellence in teaching and service have made these individuals stand out during the 2025-26 school year.
We are also delighted to announce that two 2026 Alisal Classified Employees were selected as Monterey County Classified Employees in their respective categories.
Ms. Erin Sawyer Ortwig, a sixth grade teacher at John E. Steinbeck Elementary, was selected as the District’s Teacher of the Year 2026. Mrs. Sawyer Ortwig was selected for her thoughtful guidance, steady leadership, and collaborative spirit.
“As an induction mentor, Ms. Sawyer Ortwig invests in developing new educators, ensuring the sustainability of strong instructional practices across Steinbeck,” Principal Avelina Navarrete said. “Her commitment to family engagement is evident in her consistent presence and leadership during parent events and school-wide activities. She is not only an outstanding classroom teacher but a transformational leader whose influence extends throughout the entire school community.”
Every year, every principal from all Alisal USD schools recommends a candidate to be selected as Teacher of the Year. Similarly, Directors nominate candidates for the Classified Employee of the Year in different categories. This year, five individuals were selected to represent the District as Classified Employees of the Year:
Mary Zamarripa, Migrant Services Advocate, Migrant Education
Ms. Zamarripa ensures that Alisal USD offers the highest quality of services to our students and families. She spends endless hours in communication with moms and dads, taking the time to encourage and motivate them to take full advantage of the opportunities that surround them within our program and beyond. While her focus is identification and recruitment, she is always ready and willing to support her colleagues in all projects to ensure that we are always on our best as team and department.
Ms. Zamarripa was selected as Monterey County Classified Employee of the Year in the Health and Student Services Category.
Estella Rico, Bus Driver, Maintenance, Operations, Transportation and Safety.
No matter how many students Ms. Rico is driving or how many times her route is modified, she always says yes and keeps a positive attitude. Driving a bus full of special needs students looks easy when you have an employee confident in her abilities and grounded on what’s right. That’s Estella for you: she makes it look so effortless because of her confidence and skills honed in during more than a decade.
Ms. Rico was selected as Monterey County Classified Employee of the Year in the Transportation Category.
Stella Sánchez, Food Services, Nutrition Services Department
Over her two decades of service, Stella has been a constant, reliable presence for our school community. By ensuring the Central kitchen runs smoothly, she directly impacts the health and readiness of every student in the district.
Artemio Duje, Custodian, Alisal Community School
Mr. Duje sets an example of team work that’s not easily replicated. He engages with his fellow site custodians and expresses innovative ideas to effectively accomplish goals that ensure the school remains a safe learning environment.
Ana Rodriguez, Campus Supervisor, César E. Chavez Elementary
Ms. Rodriguez consistently goes above and beyond her assigned responsibilities and extends her support beyond her work hours. She is patient, kind, and nurturing with our students, always ensuring they feel safe and supported.
“The commitment and dedication of these employees exemplifies a spirit of service unique to Alisal USD,” Superintendent Mónica Anzo said. “It’s an honor to be able to recognize Ms. Sawyer Ortwig, Mr. Duke, Ms. Rodríguez, Ms. Sánchez, Ms. Rico and Ms. Zamarripa for their hard work, their years of service, and their commitment to students and families.”
All nominees will be honored during a special event organized by the Monterey County Office of Education. This year's event will take place May 8, at Embassy Suites in Seaside.