In addition to announcing the 2025-26 Teachers of the Year, IUSD announced four Teachers of Promise. This annual honor goes to first or second-year instructors who go above and beyond, while demonstrating professional curiosity and an unbridled enthusiasm for teaching. This year’s four Teachers of Promise were recognized in front of their students, family members and peers, and will be formally honored on April 30 at the Excellence in Teaching Awards program.
Andrea Barrientos – Middle School Teacher of Promise
Andrea Barrientos, Education Specialist at Sierra Vista Middle School, supports students, staff and programs immensely. She connects well with colleagues, is an advocate for her students, and works to advance Sierra Vista’s EDI focus on campus. Andrea has quickly become a radiant presence on Sierra Vista’s campus. She is a teacher whose classroom is more than a place of learning; it’s a safe place for students.
Andrea is a driving force for inclusion and equity, developing staff professional development, organizing school-wide events like Abilities Awareness Day, and bridging the gap between teacher and student groups to foster a truly student-centered culture of belonging. Her dedication to inclusion is evident in the powerful Reading Buddies partnership she created with the Moderate/Severe classes, uniting students of all abilities weekly to read, connect, build friendships, and strengthen literacy skills. She is an invaluable resource to the special education department, tirelessly equipping teachers with essential tools and strategies for student success. Her infectious energy uplifts those around her as she commits to nurturing both the emotional well-being and intellectual growth of her students.
Excellence in Teaching
Excellence in Teaching Awards Banquet
All of this year’s honorees will be formally recognized on April 30 at the Excellence in Teaching Awards program, organized each year by the Irvine Teachers Association and IUSD.
Teachers of Promise
IUSD also recognizes a handful of standout first- and second-year teachers, who are announced as “Teachers of Promise. View the 2025-26 Teachers of Promise.
Join us in congratulating these outstanding teachers!