School of Education alumna named Teacher of the Year

Orange County Department of Education selected 12-year science veteran Tracy Dawson MAT ’10 for the honor​

October 25, 2022

High school science teacher Tracy Dawson MAT+Credential ’10 will be recognized among teachers of the year from across California counties at a gala on Oct. 28. Dawson was selected as a 2023 Orange County Teacher of the Year by the Orange County Department of Education. The 12-year teaching veteran is currently posted at Arnold O. Beckman in Tustin and was nominated by the Tustin Unified School District for her work in creating positive learning environments, developing meaningful and applicable lessons for her students, and her support of students and staff at Beckman. Dawson also leads the AVID program at her school, and started the California Health Occupations Students of America Career Technical Student Organization Chapter at Beckman, which is a leadership opportunity for students who want to pursue a career in the medical field and compete in medical events. Additionally, one of her proudest achievements is starting the human body systems course in 2011, which now serves as the gateway into the Applied Medical Pathway Program and has become one of the most popular programs at Beckman.

“I am so honored to receive this recognition,” Dawson said. “I am grateful to work at Beckman with such incredible, supportive, dedicated students and staff.”

Tracy Dawson

Dawson is one of six 2023 Orange County Teachers of the Year. School of Education alumna and kindergarten teacher Stephanie Cluxton ’88, Credential ’94 was also nominated as a 2023 San Diego County Teacher of the Year.