Two Rock Union Elementary School Teacher Kimberly Lloyd, a second-grade teacher with experience in special education, was named Sonoma County’s Teacher of the Month for November 2023.
She was presented with the award during a rally on Monday attended by the school’s 125 students, 20 employees, and Two Rock Principal Stephen Owens. Lloyd’s husband, Dylan, and 7-year-old twin boys, Miles and Harrison, were surprise guests at the rally.
“Thank you so much from the bottom of my heart. This means a lot,” Lloyd said after the rally about receiving the award. “As all of us teachers know, we work tirelessly . . . day in and day out, even on our breaks, and something like this makes you feel like people know that about you. It really feels good to feel appreciated.”
The Sonoma County Teacher of the Month award recognizes educators who go above and beyond for their students. The Sonoma County Office of Education runs the award program in partnership with Community First Credit Union, as well as Hot 101.7, and Froggy 92.9. Nominations for stellar teachers are solicited from families and community members via on-air ads played on both stations.
Winners are awarded a $500 classroom supply gift card from Community First Credit Union, as well as a plaque, flowers, and balloons.
A nomination that Lloyd received touted her dedication to her students and the broader Two Rock community.
“Kim is an incredible teacher to her students and colleagues,” the nomination said. “She is constantly finding ways to engage her students above and beyond the given curriculum, and will stay late to tutor students that may need extra help. She takes on extra duties with ease, and looks to help her fellow teachers whenever they need it.”
Lloyd began teaching second grade three years ago, though she got her start at the elementary school as a special education teacher in 2016. In addition to her role as a teacher, she also serves as a mentor to new teachers on the campus, Owens said. She’s been a sounding board for him, too, Owens added.
“I’ve always gone to Kim when I’ve had an issue, or a question, or (needed) some advice as to who to talk to,” Owens said. “She’s always given me sound advice and had me look at things in a different manner which made outcomes a little better. I’m very happy and very proud to have Mrs. Lloyd receive this award.”
Dr. Amie Carter, Sonoma County superintendent of schools, praised Lloyd for the leadership she has shown on the Two Rock campus.
“The support and advice I received from professional mentors during my first years as an educator was invaluable,” Carter said. “Teacher leaders like Mrs. Lloyd help uplift the educators around them, and that ultimately raises the quality of learning for all of our students.”
Do you know a teacher who goes above and beyond for their students? Nominations for this program can be submitted at www.sonomacountyteacher.com, or via Froggy 92.9 or Hot 101.7.
