Ralston Teacher Named Educator of the Year

The Belmont Redwood Shores School District has named Ralston Middle School teacher Chris Saldivar as its Educator of the Year. “

“He was nominated for being an outstanding teacher, role model, and individual; an award that he deserves for his work at Ralston Middle School and District wide efforts,” said Superintendant Dr. Emerita Orta-Camilleri at a Welcome Back Opening event on Aug. 23.

Saldivar has taught at Ralston for the past 12 years, and in addition to his curricular work in sixth grade science, physical education, health education and AVID (Advanced Via Individual Determination), he coordinates the Spelling Bee, Battle of the Books, and has resurrected the school newspaper.

But it is his efforts on behalf of his students’ futures that helped earn Saldivar this distinction. According to the district nomination description, he reinforces the need for students to take charge of their lives and to focus on their aspirations while setting goals.

He enriches the students’ learning experience with the use of specialized resources, guest speakers, technology and activities that are exciting and captivating for students.

The nomination also stated, “Chris spends a considerable amount of time planning dynamic extracurricular activities to transfer student knowledge and learning of concepts.” Some of those extracurricular activities include field trips to colleges and the Museum of Tolerance in Los Angeles.

Through Saldivar’s efforts, the district has obtained grants that promote effective conflict resolution, peer counseling, leadership program and tobacco prevention.  He also participated on the District Wellness Committee.