The Monterey Peninsula Unified School District is proud to honor the remarkable educators who shape our schools, inspire our students, and power our future. At its May 13, 2025, meeting, the Board of Education will adopt (adopted) a resolution proclaiming May 5–9, 2025, as Teacher Appreciation Week and May 14, 2025, as California Day of the Teacher.
Each year, these observances provide an opportunity to celebrate the heart of our educational community—our teachers. The California Teachers Association has designated May 14 as California Day of the Teacher, modeled after “El Día del Maestro” traditions observed across Latin America. This year’s theme, California Educators: At the Heart of Communities, Powering Our Future, perfectly captures the vital role educators play in creating a strong, inclusive, and inspiring learning environment.
In alignment with the National PTA, which designates the first full week of May as Teacher Appreciation Week, MPUSD recognizes the dedication of its teachers who go above and beyond every day in the classroom and beyond. Whether mentoring students, developing innovative lesson plans, or building supportive relationships with families, MPUSD teachers make a lasting impact.
Teachers in MPUSD are represented by the Monterey Bay Teachers Association. MBTA works closely with district leadership to champion high-quality public education.
Superintendent Dr. PK Diffenbaugh noted, “Our teachers are more than educators—they are mentors, advocates, and changemakers. They embody our mission to Incite Excellence. Inspire Change. and we are honored to celebrate them this month and every day.”
MPUSD’s commitment to educational excellence and equity is anchored in its goals to improve outcomes for all students and to recruit, develop, and retain a diverse, high-quality staff. These goals come to life through the work of dedicated teachers who embrace high expectations and foster inclusive, culturally responsive classrooms.
As MPUSD celebrates Teacher Appreciation Week and California Day of the Teacher, we encourage students, families, and community members to thank a teacher, share a note of appreciation, and recognize the incredible educators who shape our future—one student at a time.