Culinary Arts teacher from Calipatria Unified School District, Ms. Dallana Gomez, has been selected as the Imperial County Teacher of the Year for this coming school year. This prestigious honor also designates her as Imperial County’s nominee for the California Department of Education's California Teacher of the Year program. If selected as one of California’s Teachers of the Year, Ms. Gomez would be showcased as a shining example of the over 300,000 teachers in the state! Annually, the California Department of Education selects five teachers to serve as California’s Teachers of the Year from the nominations they receive from county offices of education throughout the state. These educators are ambassadors of the profession and serve as representatives of the state for the calendar year. California Teachers of the Year awards are typically announced in the Fall.
Ms. Gomez has been Calipatria High School’s Culinary Arts Teacher for the past 11 years. She was also recognized on Friday, May 23, 2025, by the local chapter of the Association of California School Administrators (ACSA) as one of their Imperial County teachers of the year.
“Mrs. Gomez is highly deserving of this Imperial County Teacher of the Year award for her mastery of the culinary arts, innovative teaching, commitment to student empowerment and leadership development, and for the passion for learning and growth mindset that she inspires in her students,” shared Lucio Padilla Jr., Principal at Calipatria High School. “Her expertise and creativity keep students engaged, excited, and future-ready in the culinary industry.”
Mrs. Gomez is an exemplary culinary educator who transforms students' futures through her innovative teaching methods and unwavering dedication. She implements engaging practices like "Master Chef"-style challenges, real-world catering experiences, and a dynamic social media presence, leading her students to consistent success in competitions and showcasing their talent. Beyond culinary skills, Mrs. Gomez fosters critical thinking, leadership, and a growth mindset, ensuring all students are prepared for the evolving demands of the industry.
“Being a student in my classroom means being part of a vibrant, high-energy, hands-on environment where teamwork is essential and food is the bridge that brings us all together. We laugh, we hustle, we problem-solve, and we grow side by side,” noted Ms. Gomez. “I don’t expect all of my students to become chefs or work in the hospitality industry, but I do expect them to leave my class with confidence, real-world skills, and a deeper respect for the food that nourishes us. They learn how to cook, how to collaborate, and how to take pride in their work, skills that extend far beyond the kitchen.”
“Ms. Gomez’s unwavering dedication to the teaching profession is truly commendable, and we are thrilled to recognize and celebrate her as a shining example of excellence in Imperial County education,” shared Dr. Todd Finnell, County Superintendent of Schools. “We are so proud to have Ms. Gomez represent Imperial County as our Teacher of the Year.” Mrs. Gomez will be recognized at the next ICOE Board meeting on June 9th for her unwavering dedication, leadership, and innovative approach that transform students' futures and exemplify excellence in education.
Ms. Gomez lives in the Imperial Valley with her family and finds joy in both her home kitchen and the classroom, where she’s passionate about inspiring the next generation of culinary professionals.