Imperial County Names Ashley Gibson 2026 Teacher of the Year
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Mrs. Ashley Gibson, a fifth-grade teacher at Cross Elementary School in the Imperial Unified School District, has been named the 2026 Imperial County Teacher of the Year.
Gibson has taught fifth grade at Cross Elementary since 2023 and has 15 years of teaching experience, according to the Imperial County Office of Education.
“Mrs. Gibson exemplifies the very essence of our school’s guiding principle: Every Student, Every Day, Whatever It Takes,” said Javier Ramos, a district representative. “She is an outstanding role model both in and out of the classroom.”
Gibson said she centers her teaching on relationships and student support.
“Relationships are the foundation of learning, and in my classroom, every student—regardless of where they begin—is valued, supported, and challenged to grow,” she said. “I reflect and adjust my instruction to meet their needs, knowing when students feel seen and supported, they take risks and grow.”
She added that helping students build confidence is a key part of her work.
“One of the most important aspects of education is helping students see themselves as capable, valued, and full of potential,” Gibson said. “Because long after the lessons are forgotten, what remains is whether a child felt seen, heard, and valued.”
Imperial County Superintendent of Schools Todd Finnell said Gibson’s selection reflects her commitment to education.
“Mrs. Gibson’s unwavering passion for teaching, innovative spirit, and commitment to professional growth are truly remarkable,” Finnell said. “We are honored to celebrate her as our 2026 Imperial County Teacher of the Year.”
Gibson will represent Imperial County as a nominee for the California Teacher of the Year program. The California Department of Education annually selects five educators statewide for the honor, who serve as ambassadors for the profession.
She will be formally recognized at the Imperial County Office of Education Board meeting on May 11, 2026, and later honored by the Association of California School Administrators on May 15.
