Maria Ravelo enjoys her work.

So much so that the San Joaquin County Office of Education announced her as the 2024 San Joaquin County Teacher of the Year.

Ravelo, who has 30 years of experience in education, is a seventh-grade teacher at Mossdale Elementary School (Manteca Unified) in Lathrop.

Her nomination will now be submitted to the state for consideration as California Teacher of the Year.

Other finalists for SJC Teachers of the Year were Joann Tavaziva of Venture Academy (SJCOE), San Juana Rosales of Monte Vista Middle School (Tracy Unified), Heather Haley-Brown of Waterloo Middle School (Linden Unified), and Julia Carniglia of Lodi Middle School (Lodi Unified).

Ravelo is a product of MUSD. Growing up, she attended Lathrop Elementary School and East Union High, going on to the University of the Pacific following graduation.

“This love of education has led Maria to a life of service, giving back to the community that raised her,” said Mossdale Principal Anthony Chapman in the SJCOE press release.

He added: “She has served in countless leadership and mentorship roles for both students and staff, using her quiet yet powerful demeanor to inspire those around her.”

Chapman called Ravelo part of the “backbone” of the teaching staff at Mossdale – in this case, someone who epitomizes the profession of teaching and learning.

“Students in her class feel safe, respected, and supported,” said Chapman. “Simply stated, she cares about kids and dedicates everything she has to help them succeed.”

The SJCOE event took place during a dinner on Thursday.

The annual awards – also recognized were Classified Employees and School Counselor – celebrated those who made a difference in the lives of their students and the community.