Shannon Faltermier helps a student at Thomass Kelly Elementary School in Carmichael. Photo courtesy of San Juan Unified School District

SACRAMENTO, CA (MPG) – The San Juan Unified School District is proud to recognize Shannon Faltermier and Haley Zerr as the 2026 Teachers of the Year.

Teachers at San Juan Unified are the foundation of education for the next generation of post-secondary students and professionals. Their passion and dedication drive them to provide enriching learning experiences and a positive classroom environment for all.

Both teachers have made significant contributions to the district and are committed to setting their students up for academic success.

With 15 years of service at San Juan Unified School District, Faltermier began her teaching journey in the district as a student teacher at Kingswood K-8. She is now a transitional kindergarten teacher at Thomass Kelly Elementary School in Carmichael.

“I’ve always loved to work with the little ones. I knew this is what I wanted to do,” Faltermier said. “When I ended up here, it was meant to be. It’s my dream job.”

Among a group of four teachers, Faltermier played a vital role during the roll-out of Transitional Kindergarten throughout San Juan Unified. She contributed to the establishment of a networking group for Transitional Kindergarten teachers to share ideas and support one another, as well as create curriculum for Camp Kinder and develop the TK report card.

“It’s been great to mentor new (Transitional Kindergarten) teachers as they come on,” Faltermier said.

Faltermier said that she appreciated her mentors throughout her career. Her mentors, Faltermier said, supported her growth and helped her become the teacher she is today, including Cultivating Leaders mentor Cheryl Dultz.

“She is my biggest mentor. She was my mentor when I student taught and she’s followed me through this journey,” Faltermier said. “I was with her during her last years in the classroom. She makes teaching so much fun.”

Through challenges, including the COVID-19 pandemic, Faltermier said that she persevered through it all. While the experiences allowed her to grow, Faltermier remained focused on her priority: the students.

“We have to remember that in the end, the students are the reason why we are here,” Faltermier said. “Also, as a teacher, you have to remember to take time for yourself. If you’re not at your best, you are not at your best for your students.”

Haley Zerr looks at a presentation on a TV screen at Will Rogers Middle School in Fair Oaks. Photo courtesy of San Juan Unified School District

Zerr has been a part of San Juan Unified since she was an elementary school student and is now completing her ninth year of teaching for the district at the same school she once attended. She is a U.S. history and drama teacher at Will Rogers Middle School in Fair Oaks.

When entering her classroom, you’ll either find Zerr completing a fun and competitive activity or reviewing the learning goals with her students. With a diverse group of students, Zerr adapts her lessons for all, including English Language Learners.

“One of my favorite things to teach about is the U.S. Constitution. Also, that everyone in my classroom has a voice, that they feel represented and that they find themselves somewhere in history,” Zerr said.

Zerr said that teaching has been a space to connect with other educators and shape a positive environment for her school. Through cultivating relationships with her peers, Zerr has not only fostered friendships but also found individuals who share her values and vision.

“We have aligned goals on making sure that our students see themselves in history, that they see themselves as safe and valued,” Zerr said.

Zerr strives to create a welcoming and safe learning environment for all her students, emphasizing growth over perfection. When it comes to grading, Zerr said she provides students with second chances, ensuring that they have an opportunity to show that they are trying.

“Growth is huge. A little bit of progress is better than nothing at all,” Zerr said. “I see so much growth with my English Learner students because they gain practice in academic skills along with historical skills.”

With a passion for learning, Zerr is currently pursuing a master's degree in U.S. History. For her students, Zerr serves as a role model and encourages them to advance academically.

“It is a constant reminder to my students that I am also in school and that I know that they can do it because I can,” Zerr said.

Zerr will proceed in representing San Juan Unified at the Sacramento County Office of Education’s 2026 Teacher of the Year competition.