2023-2024 RAVE Nominees

E. Michael Chelsky, Teacher, Independence High School

"Mr. Chelsky has always strived to connect with his students and has always made the classroom a productive yet relaxing place to learn. He is passionate about what he teaches, he has a direct yet unique way of teaching, and he is always taking the time to check in with his students. Mr. Chelsky makes it a point to get us all together to discuss what we are learning in class every week. You would think as teenagers we don't like this, but Mr. Chelsky has a way of making it interactive, fun, funny, and comfortable. He shares stories of his own in order to connect with us and what we are learning, this makes the pathway for us students to also feel free to share. He has such a cool background and he truly is passionate about what he does. He loves his podcasting mini studio in his classroom and he gives us the opportunity to record in it while he gives us pointers and ideas. He is well-known at Independence for his podcasting class and his KQED opportunities he offers his students."  -Nominated 10/2023

Winnie Mai, Early Childhood Special Educator, Paul Revere Elementary School

"Winnie is a superstar who always goes above and beyond for her students and their families. Winnie is creative, thoughtful, dedicated, open-minded, consistent, knowledgeable, organized, and stays calm and kind with her students even when there are challenging behaviors. Winnie did not give up on a preschool student with extremely challenging behaviors, persisted to get him the help he needed, and helped him start shining. Winnie communicates extremely well with families. She sends a detailed weekly newsletter and classroom photos so families really know what is happening at school." -Nominated 11/2023

Marrietosh Cunanan Richards, Teacher, Balboa High School

"Ms. Tosh is an empathetic, creative, caring, and effective teacher. She goes above and beyond for her students. She thinks out of the box and makes learning a fun and engaging experience. She cares for the students like they are her own children. She is a great communicator. We love Ms. Tosh! During the holiday month, Ms Tosh started many arts and crafts projects, organized a skating trip in Union Square for the students. She brought so much joy and community to the classroom. Ms Tosh also organized a coffee cart activity where the students learned to print t-shirts as uniforms, make coffee and hot chocolate, take orders from the customers (teachers at the high school), and learn about money exchange. I wish more students in special education could benefit from instruction like this. Students are gaining important skills and knowledge while having a good time." -Nominated 12/2023

Mira Collamore, Paraeducator, AccessSFUSD:The Arc

"Mira takes tremendous pride in her work with students and in representing SFUSD in the community. In her role as a paraeducator in the community-based special education transition program, Mira supports students to develop their independence while gaining functional life skills and discovering their passions. From job coaching students while at their coffee cart job at SFMTA, to teaching students workout routines at the public pool, Mira does it all! Her positive attitude and infectious smile make her well-liked by our team and all the students who work with her! She is dedicated to serving as an Access ambassador, ensuring our students and program are well represented while highlighting student strengths. Mira has a particular interest in supporting our students who communicate using adaptive communication and is well-versed in helping build meaningful communication pages for students to engage more meaningfully with their peers." -Nominated 1/2024

Classy-Della Martin, Student Advisor, Lakeshore Alternative Elementary School

"Ms. Classy is the kind of person that makes a school feel like a COMMUNITY to so many of us at Lakeshore. She's warm and welcoming and loving and hard working. She really SEES kids and she sees their parents and she supports everyone, including other staff in big ways and small ones. She SHOWS UP for us, and helps us connect to one another so that we can show up for others within our community. She's an incredible facilitator and my favorite face to see at the front gate at pickup and drop-off. Classy runs a black and beyond farmers market and hosts the annual African American Potluck during Black History Month. It is an event that brings the entire community together. SO many families participate across all grade levels and ethic backgrounds. So much food is brought in community and it is awesome to see everyone engage in a positive and supportive setting sharing a meal together like family and enjoying performances like spoken word and dance that Classy works on together with all the student performers. Awesome event and amazing commitment to the school community." -Nominated 2/2024

Christopher Telles, Teacher, Guadalupe Elementary School

"Coach Chris consistently goes above and beyond to ensure that each student receives the support they need to thrive academically, regardless of their learning style or background. His commitment to differentiation is particularly commendable, as he tailors his teaching methods to accommodate the unique needs of every student. This dedication not only enhances the overall learning experience but also contributes significantly to the academic success of our diverse student body. As an exemplary educator, Coach Chris is a shining example to his peers. His pedagogical approach is characterized by a unique blend of creativity, adaptability, and a deep understanding of individual student needs. His commitment to incorporating differentiated instruction ensures that every student has the opportunity to thrive academically, creating an inclusive and enriching learning environment." -Nominated 2/2024