Holly Gotwals, Teacher for Adult Transition Program at Rocklin Unified School District, Named 2023/2024 Esquire IMAX Teacher of the Year

May 17, 2024

SchoolsFirst Federal Credit Union, the largest credit union serving school employees and their families, in partnership with ABC10 Sacramento, Esquire IMAX Theatre and Sacramento State's College of Education, today announced that Holly Gotwals of Rocklin Unified Adult Transition Program has been named 2023/2024 Esquire IMAX Teacher of the Year. The prestigious award was presented during a special ceremony at the Esquire IMAX Theatre in downtown Sacramento.

Holly Gotwals was selected from a pool of 12 monthly award recipients. A graduate of Sacramento State, Ms. Gotwals has been teaching for 23 years. She teaches a special education adult transition class for students 18-22 years old who have moderate/severe needs and did not receive a high school diploma. The focus of her class is to teach the students functional English, functional math, current events, independent living skills, vocational, cooking, nutrition/fitness, community skills, social/safety skills, career awareness, self-advocacy, and mobility training.

When asked to share advice to those considering a career path in teaching, Ms. Gotwals said, "My advice for future teachers is to make sure you find your passion and love for teaching. I know many teachers get burned out, but I love teaching and wake up every morning excited to go to work. Teachers need to be patient, have an understanding of their students, collaborate with parents, and be lifelong learners themselves."

"Ms. Gotwals is a stellar example of a teacher who creates a tangible difference in the lives of her students and prepares them to succeed," said Josh Smith, vice president, school and community relations at SchoolsFirst FCU. "SchoolsFirst FCU is excited and honored to share stories such as hers, to recognize the outstanding contributions of our educators."

In place for over 20 years, the Teacher of the Month program highlights local teachers making a difference in the lives of their students and families. To nominate a local teacher in the greater Sacramento/Stockton/Modesto area for a future Teacher of the Month, please visit ABC10 Teacher of the Month.