Longtime educator Dr. Claudio Toledo is known across Lynwood Unified for his positive impact on students, colleagues and the District community – a dedication that has earned him recognition as the 2024 District Teacher of the Year, announced during the Board of Education meeting on April 25.
Toledo – an educator at Lynwood Unified for over 20 years – received a standing ovation and an enthusiastic round of applause from the audience, which included friends, family and colleagues, including Teachers of the Year from across District schools.
"This has been the most extraordinary professional experience of my life since being allowed to put into practice one of my lifelong callings of being a teacher,” Toledo said. “I am honored and am grateful for the opportunity to positively impact the lives of my students – the most amazing blessing in my life – and to collaborate with dedicated colleagues who share my passion for education."
Toledo started his journey with Lynwood Unified in 1999 as a secondary English teacher, where he said his passion for enriching young minds ignited. After serving as an assistant principal for six years, he answered his calling to the classroom and began a new chapter as a teacher at Vista High School, a 2024 California Model Continuation High School.
Colleagues of Toledo laud his passion for personally connecting with every student, providing individualized support, and ensuring their academic and social-emotional success.
"I have had the privilege of observing Dr. Toledo in action. I have seen his rare gift for fostering a sense of belonging and empowerment among even the most disengaged learners, inspiring them to reach their full potential,” Vista High School Principal Ramon Enriquez said. “We are incredibly fortunate to have him as a member of our Vista High School family."
At Vista, which supports at-promise students, Toledo has helped foster a collaborative and supportive educational environment for students, guiding and inspiring them toward positive journeys.
“We are proud to celebrate Dr. Toledo’s remarkable achievements and extend our heartfelt congratulations on this well-deserved honor,” Superintendent Gudiel R. Crosthwaite, Ph.D. said. “His unwavering commitment to students’ well-being and dedication to our community sets a high standard for educators across our district.”