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SUNNYVALE, CA – In her Columbia Middle School classroom, seventh-grade social studies teacher Mariel Joseline Islas Lopez Mooraj, M.Ed., builds trust and fosters meaningful connections, creating a space where every student feels valued. In recognition of that work, she has been named the Acknowledge Alliance 2026 Teacher of the Year.

The award underscores Islas’ commitment to supporting the whole child, recognizing her ability to foster a classroom where students feel safe, supported, and empowered to share their voices. Presented by Acknowledge Alliance, the honor highlights educators who prioritize student well-being and create inclusive learning environments.

“I want my students to feel comfortable being themselves,” Islas said. “I want them to know their voices matter, their perspectives have value, and that their experiences and backgrounds are part of the stories we are learning. My role is to support them in finding that confidence.”

In her classroom, Islas centers student voice, prompting critical thinking, idea sharing, and community engagement so that every student feels respected.

That perspective is rooted in her connection to history, shaped in part by her great-grandfather’s experiences as a Bracero worker. Those stories informed her belief that history is not only studied, but made by people and their daily lived experiences.

Born in Jalisco, Mexico, Islas immigrated to the United States at a young age. She later earned a bachelor’s degree in history with a minor in Black studies from the University of California, Santa Barbara, followed by a master’s degree in education from Stanford University.

“Exceptional educators like Ms. Islas impact students' lives far beyond a single school year; her belief in and support of her students now will bolster them throughout their lives,” said Sunnyvale School District Board President Peggy Shen Brewster. “On behalf of the Board, we congratulate Ms. Islas and thank her for her unwavering dedication, her care for student well-being, and her commitment to fostering a supportive and inclusive learning environment. I look forward to celebrating with her at the upcoming Acknowledge Alliance award recognition event.”

Acknowledge Alliance will host its Forget-Me-Not Fields of Hope event on Wednesday, April 29, in Palo Alto, bringing the community together for an evening of celebration and connection, where Islas will be honored alongside other women making a difference each day.

“When students see themselves reflected in their teachers, it affirms their sense of belonging and expands what they believe is possible for their own futures. Representation in education is not symbolic; it is essential to building trust, confidence, and opportunity for every student,” Superintendent Gudiel R. Crosthwaite, Ph.D., said. “Ms. Islas exemplifies that impact through her connection with students and her commitment to ensuring they feel seen, heard, and valued.”