Gerardo Gomez was honored at the Los Angeles County Office of Education’s Teacher of the Year luncheon on Friday, Sept. 19, alongside top educators from across the county.
Gomez, who teaches sixth through eighth grade special education students in science, and has also taught social studies and English, was first announced as Baldwin Park Unified’s Teacher of the Year earlier this spring.
A Baldwin Park native, Gomez has worked in education for 26 years, has taught for 15 years, including 13 at BP STEM Academy. He is a Sierra Vista High School alumnus and the proud parent of two children who attend Kenmore Elementary School. Gomez earned his bachelor’s degree at Cal Poly Pomona and a master’s degree & credential from Azusa Pacific University.
Gomez said his path to middle school teaching was unexpected. “I never thought I would teach middle school,” Gomez said. “I started in elementary, then thrived in high school, and eventually landed in middle school where I fell in love.”
Outside the classroom, Gomez enjoys traveling with his family, having visited Spain, France, and most recently Puerto Rico. He also has a passion for cultural experiences such as plays and the arts. Gomez said his inspiration to pursue teaching came from his late mother, a preschool teacher who instilled the value of education while raising six children of her own.
Looking ahead, Gomez hopes to continue his professional growth by pursuing an administrative credential and eventually a doctorate.
Reflecting on his award, Gomez said he felt humbled and grateful, recalling the nerves of classroom observation rounds leading up to the announcement. “At the end of the day, I am very humbled to be chosen and so happy to show this to my kids and have a voice for the special education community,” Gomez said. “I’m thankful for the recognition and proud to share this spotlight with special education educators and families.”
Gomez said his teaching philosophy centers on building connections with students and families beyond the classroom. He regularly incorporates hands-on activities and creative projects alongside digital tools like Google Classroom and shares photos with families to strengthen home-school partnerships. “The parking lot chat and full-circle relationships matter and make a difference,” he said.