13th annual “A Salute to Teachers” gala an inspiring celebration of education and teaching

SANTA BARBARA COUNTY, CA Eight exceptional Santa Barbara County teachers took the spotlight at the 13th annual A Salute to Teachers gala on November 7, 2026 at the Music Academy of the West in Montecito. Presented by the Santa Barbara County Education Office, the event brought together over 275 attendees to celebrate educators from across the county for their commitment and contributions to the teaching profession and their school communities. This year’s honorees were: 2027 Santa Barbara County Teacher of the Year: Alejandra Navarro El Camino Elementary School, Goleta Union School District 2027 Santa Barbara Bowl Performing Arts Teacher of the Year: Selyn Barrette Harwin Pioneer Valley High School, Santa Maria Joint Union High School District 2027 Distinguished New Educators: Laurie Geronimo Pioneer Valley High School, Santa Maria Joint Union High School District Wendy Marin Fairlawn Elementary School, Santa Maria-Bonita School District Stephanie Rosas