Sonoma County Office of Education

Teacher of the Month: Brittany Machado

04/06/2021 -

Brittany Machado, a 7th/8th-grade math teacher at Brook Haven Middle School in Sebastopol Union School District, has been named Sonoma County Teacher of the Month for March 2021.

The monthly award honors one of Sonoma County's most outstanding teachers from October through May. It is sponsored by the Sonoma County Office of Education (SCOE), K-HITS 104.9, and Community First Credit Union (CFCU).

“So many teachers have stepped up in incredible ways to support students and families during these unprecedented times of distance learning,” said Steven D. Herrington, Sonoma County Superintendent of Schools. “The Teacher of the Month program this year seeks to honor, support, and thank those teachers who have gone above and beyond to support students during the shelter-in-place."

Ms. Machado received a number of enthusiastic nominations from appreciative students and parents. They described her as patient, compassionate, and going out of her way to help students feel confident and understand difficult concepts. She makes time for one-on-one meetings to help students struggling with an assignment.

"I think Ms. Machado should be teacher of the month because she’s kind, very helpful, caring, etc., " wrote one of her students who nominated her. "Please let her know that she’s my favorite teacher, and thanks to her, I understand math so much better."

A parent wrote, "She in my eyes goes above and beyond to help the kids. She is genuinely kind, patient and is a model teacher."

Ms. Machado was surprised with the honor with a friendly "Zoom bombing" by representatives from SCOE and KHITS as well as Principal Sara Gramm on Monday, April 5 during her virtual class instruction. She expressed appreciation and excitement, giving a special shoutout to her students. She will be given a special plaque and a $500 gift card for teacher resources and supplies as part of the recognition.

Learn more and nominate a special teacher in your life by going to http://www.sonomacountyteacher.com.