Excellence in Education
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The Merced County Excellence in Education program began in 2006 as a partnership between Educational Employees Credit Union and the Merced County Office of Education. This program showcases some of Merced County's top teachers, administrators and school employees. A sculpture titled "Commencement" was created by the late artist Clement Renzi and was commissioned by EECU. The piece was the final work by famed Valley sculptor Renzi, who passed away in 2009, and has a permanent home in front of the MCOE. Renzi's other works can be seen throughout the Central Valley.
Winners from school districts in Merced County are selected as finalists, and one teacher, one administrator and one school employee receive the county winner award. Each county winner receives a sculpture created by Renzi and a framed photo of them with their superintendent. Nominees, family members, and special guests are invited to attend the evening reception and awards ceremony, sponsored by EECU. The ceremony honors educators, administrators and employees in a variety of fields, ranging from special education and alternative education to preschool, elementary and high school.
Download a digital version of 2024 Merced County Excellence in Education program.
2024 Excellence in Education Winners
Employee of the Year
Octavio Ugalde
Maintenance and Operations
Merced City School District
Administrator of the Year
Dana Reyes
Bryant Middle School
Dos Palos-Oro Loma Joint Unified School District
Teacher of the Year
Amber Kirby
Golden Valley High School
Merced Union High School District
Octavio Ugalde – 2024 Employee of the Year
With more than 20 years of experience, Octavio has established a high standard for his peers and significantly improved the Merced City School District through his extensive knowledge, professionalism and leadership. His unique combination of technical expertise and genuine passion for his work allows him to go beyond his job duties, actively sharing his experience and supporting his colleagues. Prior to his current role, Octavio was part of the team that helped Peterson Elementary School achieve the California Distinguished School Award, which highlights his commitment and desire to watch others succeed. What truly sets him apart is his exceptional work ethic and dedication to going the extra mile in every task he undertakes. His work to coordinate substitutes during absences, train and mentor new custodians and consistently help schools solve issues not only contributes to a safe and welcoming school environment for students, but also earned him the trust and respect of the entire school district.
Dana Reyes – 2024 Administrator of the Year
Dana brings 12 years of experience as a former social worker to his role as the Principal at Bryant Middle School. Although discipline plays a large part in one of Dana’s roles, he approaches everything from a place of positive encouragement and support. His work with the Positive Behavioral Interventions and Supports team, along with his oversight of the Student Attendance Review Team, has cultivated a culture of responsibility, respect and accountability among students. Under his guidance, discipline management has significantly improved, resulting in a reduction in suspension rates. Dana's ability to build strong relationships with students, staff and parents has helped create a positive and inclusive learning environment for everyone. As an invaluable member of the Bryant Middle School community, Dana not only enhances student outcomes but also serves as a source of pride for the school, inspiring both students and educators to strive for excellence.
Amber Kirby – 2024 Teacher of the Year
As the Theatre and Film teacher at Golden Valley High School, Amber has a unique talent for encouraging even her most introverted students to engage and participate in her classes. This skill, combined with her own expertise in theatre production and direction, helped elevate the school’s theatre program to the heights it exists in today, including a steady increase in student participation each year. Amber's commitment to inspiring her students to pursue their dreams is unwavering. She even received her certification in special effects makeup to ensure she teaches them the latest industry standards. Additionally, she has taken the initiative to lead College, Trade, and Industry Tours, guiding groups of students through visits to prestigious schools in the Theatre and Film industry. The enthusiasm she brings to every project and the genuine interest she shows in her students' journeys inspires them to dream big and work hard. As a the heart of collaboration and creativity at Golden Valley High School, Amber not only cultivates talent but also instills confidence in every student who passes through her class.