Pasadena Teacher Honored With $1,000 Gift Card During ‘Extra Yard for Teachers Week’ – Pasadena Now
The Pasadena Tournament of Roses and the College Football Playoff Foundation celebrated "Extra Yard for Teachers Week" by honoring Christine Sandoval, a longtime educator at Don Benito Elementary School. Sandoval received a $1,000 DonorsChoose gift card to use for student resources.
The recognition took place during the Big Day for Teachers event, part of a nine-day celebration from September 14-21. The initiative aims to honor and recognize outstanding teachers across the country.
Mark Leavens, Executive Vice President of the Pasadena Tournament of Roses, presented the gift card to Sandoval in front of the entire student body.
"The Tournament of Roses is thrilled to partner with the College Football Playoff Foundation to honor Ms. Sandoval and celebrate her many years of service," Leavens said.
He added, "It was really heartwarming to see the enthusiastic reaction from all the students as they chanted her name after she was announced."
Sandoval has been a fixture at Don Benito Elementary for two decades, currently teaching 3rd grade. She has experience teaching various grades from kindergarten to fifth and is known for her positive rapport with colleagues, students, and families.
Throughout her tenure, Sandoval has contributed to numerous school activities. She has taught after-school classes, served as secretary on the School Site Council, and acted as the site Technology Lead Teacher. Additionally, she has helped organize the school Talent Show and supported student learning for the African American History Bee.
Dr. Elizabeth J. Blanco, Superintendent of Pasadena Unified School District, expressed pride in the collaboration.
"We are proud to work alongside the College Football Playoff Foundation, the Tournament of Roses, and the Pasadena Educational Foundation to recognize PUSD's outstanding teachers and advance student achievement," Blanco said.
The Extra Yard for Teachers Week involves participation from the broader college football community. Universities, conferences, bowl games, and ESPN join in the effort to show appreciation for educators.
The Pasadena Tournament of Roses, known for organizing the annual Rose Parade and Rose Bowl Game, relies on over 900 volunteer members. These volunteers contribute more than 80,000 hours to ensure the success of these iconic events.
The 136th Rose Parade, themed "Best Day Ever!", is scheduled for January 1, 2025. It will be followed by the College Football Playoff Quarterfinal at the 111th Rose Bowl Game presented by Prudential.
