Position: Seventh Grade Teacher
School: Dan O. Root Health and Wellness Academy
School District: Fairfield-Suisun Unified School District
City, State: Suisun City, CA
Music that Describes Toni
Toni Lucas was nominated by Christina Gemignani, a parent of a student.
"Mrs. Lucas is an amazing teacher who goes above and beyond to meet her students' educational needs, not only as a whole but individually," explains Gemignani. "This year, Mrs. Lucas has assisted my daughter as a person and uplifted her during her struggles. This year, my daughter was finally diagnosed with a learning disability. Mrs. Lucas was already making accommodations before my daughter received her diagnosis. Mrs. Lucas inspires my daughter to be herself and stay true to who she is."
"There are many temptations at this age to dabble in troublesome things, and because of Mrs. Lucas, I feel like my daughter has stayed strong and not succumbed to peer pressure. She has encouraged my daughter to keep trying, even if the classwork seems to be hard. She accommodates each student's individual learning style. She not only supports them with school work, but with their friendships and interactions with peers," said Gemignani.
"Mrs. Lucas is an inspiring teacher. This year, no matter what life has thrown at her, she still supports and reaches out to her students even when she is not in class. My vote is for this devoted teacher to feel the love and know how much she is appreciated. Mrs. Lucas is not only a teacher but a friend, mentor, and someone our students can trust," said Gemignani.