By CAITLIN PEARSALL

Special to the Bulletin

Lathrop Elementary School’s Joseph Rasmussen is this Saturday’s San Francisco 49ers’ Teacher of the Game.

Rasmussen will be recognized for his dedication to students at the NFL

\F preseason game against the Denver Broncos at 5:30 p.m. at Levi’s Stadium in Santa Clara.

As expressed by his nominator, Walter Woodward Elementary School Vice Principal Christopher Correia, this recognition is much deserved due to Rasmussen’s consistent willingness to go above and beyond for students.

Rasmussen, a former student of Lathrop Elementary who returned to the school as an educator, is a well-respected teacher who inspires both students and staff.

Believing that education extends beyond the confines of the classroom and that extracurricular activities play a vital role in student growth, Rasmussen is always looking to improve student experiences. He seizes every opportunity to help children build character, see the world with fresh eyes, and spark a love of learning that burns for years to come.

Rasmussen’s advocacy for hands-on learning experiences led to the meticulous planning of a crosscountry field trip to New York City and Washington, D.C.

This ambitious endeavor highlighted his commitment to broadening students’ horizons – including those who have not traveled outside of San Joaquin County – and the importance of providing real-world learning opportunities.

 While the task may have daunted others, Rasmussen was dedicated to raising funds and coordinating the logistics of the trip, knowing it would create an unforgettable and inspiring experience for students. In line with Manteca Unified School District’s philosophy that school should be a safe space for all, Rasmussen started an all-gender flag football league for elementary students throughout Manteca Unified. This initiative not only promotes inclusivity and teamwork but also underscores his dedication to a supportive and diverse learning environment.

Recognizing the importance of celebrating the achievements of his school, Rasmussen also takes the initiative to create engaging weekly videos that highlight Lathrop Elementary’s accomplishments and the talents of its students and staff.

His videos not only boost school spirit but also showcase his contributions to a positive school culture. Rasmussen's influence extends beyond Lathrop Elementary as he dedicates time to help train new teachers on the district’s Physical Education curriculum.

His commitment to professional development ensures that fellow teachers are well-equipped to deliver high-quality physical education instruction, benefiting the entire MUSD community