Nominees

Thomas Waldron
Valhalla High School

Tom has been teaching English and AVID at Valhalla for almost 32 years, and is a former Golden Apple winner. One student described Mr. Waldron’s class as, “planned spontaneity”; where the lessons are constantly evolving, depending on how well the previous lesson went. Mr. Waldron starts each day with music and individually greets each student with a handshake. Tom is well regarded by his colleagues and adored by his students. One colleague said of Mr. Waldron, “(he) treats his students with such respect, as adults – or better yet, as colleagues in learning…” Tom’s own daughter, who was formerly a student of his, wrote a note which stated, in part, “I feel privileged to be not only your daughter, but your student as well. You are such a gifted teacher and our …class was one of the most wonderful, memorable classes of the last four years.”

Daniel McDowell
West Hills High School

Dan is currently teaching Social Science and computer courses, and is also a Club Advisor and the Web Manager at West Hills. He is “always open to new ideas, theories and techniques that better serve (his) objectives and the varying needs of (his) students.” Dan integrates cutting-edge technology-based projects and assignments throughout his curriculum. Mr. McDowell is part of a nationwide network of teachers and educational technologists who continually look to improve instructional strategies, due to his connections with the SDSU Department of Educational Technology, the San Diego County Office of Education, and our own Technology Resources Department. According to West Hills Principal Brian Wilbur, “Dan’s love for his kids is evident to all. He is innovative and creative. (He teaches) what was once a dying class, (that) now has a robust enrollment with a waiting list. Dan is a much sought after presenter at State and National conferences. He literally touches the lives of thousands of students through his own, and other’s classrooms.”