Jessica Sawko Teacher Leadership Award: Maria Castanon

Meet Maria Castanon

Receiving this award is a deeply humbling honor, especially when I reflect on the remarkable leaders who have received it before me and surround me. This is more than a personal recognition, it serves as a powerful validation of the collective, equity-driven work happening across our district. It confirms that we are moving in the right direction and building a culture where science isn't just an afterthought, but a core pillar of learning.

For me, this award represents our shared commitment to ensuring that every single elementary and secondary teacher feels supported, confident, and equipped to facilitate engaging, phenomena-based science instructions. It validates our efforts to remove systemic barriers so that all students gain meaningful access to rich science experiences.

Most importantly, this recognition centers on our students. It reinforces the vital work of creating inclusive environments where students develop a genuine sense of belonging in STEM and where they see themselves not just as learners, but as capable scientists, problem-solvers, and critical thinkers who belong in this field. This award inspires me to keep advocating, collaborating, and pushing forward to expand possibilities for both our educators and the diverse communities we serve.

What’s one lesson you’ve learned that you’d share with others?
The single most valuable lesson I have learned in district leadership is that lasting, systemic change takes time, persistence, and adaptable leadership. Real transformation in science education does not happen overnight; it requires a willingness to pivot and refine your strategy as you learn what your teachers and students truly need.

At the heart of this work is empowering educators. Rather than focusing solely on compliance or mandates, true leadership is about building teachers' confidence and establishing a safe, supportive environment where they feel encouraged to innovate, experiment, and grow.

Most importantly, never attempt to lead in isolation. Sustainable progress relies on building strong networks of colleagues, thought partners, and community allies. By leaning on others as a sounding board and establishing true collaborative partnerships, you can transform complex, overwhelming initiatives into impactful realities that directly benefit your district.

What's next for you?
Now that Science is officially measured as a state indicator on the California School Dashboard alongside Math and ELA, we have a critical window of opportunity. We know that through high-quality science education, students gain far more than content knowledge, they develop essential, transferable skills like critical thinking, collaboration, creative problem-solving, and effective communication. To ensure science is taught and all students have equal access, we will continue to focus on the following:

Funding & Resources: Advocating for dedicated funding and resource allocations to support high-quality science curricula.

Professional Learning: Delivering targeted professional learning for teachers that builds content confidence, while supporting elementary educators in developing integrated lessons anchored in science.

Student Access & Experiences: Expanding experiential opportunities beyond the classroom—such as our District STEAM Fair, Girls in STEM Days, Science Camp, outdoor day trips, and broader science course offerings.

I am energized to continue this work and bring these opportunities to our teachers, students, and community!

What is the word that best describes you and why?
Catalyst.

I see myself as a catalyst for change, a dedicated collaborator and an equity advocate who works alongside educators to ensure science is taught fully, rigorously, and accessibly across all grade levels. My goal is to activate confidence in teachers and spark curiosity in students so that every learner has the opportunity to thrive.