Local teacher wins Preschool Teacher of the Year award

Los Angeles Universal Preschool has selected a Claremont educator as a recipient of the "Los Angeles County Preschool Teacher of the Year Awards."

Shawn James, who teaches preschool at Mountain View Elementary operated by the Claremont Unified School District, is one of six preschool teachers countywide who were selected to receive the award.

Winners needed to demonstrate a strong commitment to a quality preschool education and a dedication to making a positive contribution to the children they serve, using creative instructional strategies as well as contributing to the well-being of the child, preschool and community.

James was nominated by Kristen Wilson, a parent whose daughter Abigail attends his class.

"All of the parents are grateful to have such an amazing teacher for our kids," Wilson said. "All of the kids light up when they see him in class; he makes learning fun and exciting for them."

Wilson added James encourages his students to be creative and expressive, adding he spends much of his lunch breaks preparing lessons and crafts for the benefit of children.

LAUP created the Los Angeles County Preschool Teacher of the Year Awards in 2008 to recognize the contributions of preschool teachers, and to highlight the importance of a high-quality preschool experience.