Teacher of the Year

Music Teacher, Lake Hills Elementary School
Alvord Unified School District

Beth Schwandt believes that vocal cords don’t have zip codes, and that musical talent never discriminates. As evidence, she’s had a conductor’s first-hand view of how music gives her students the courage to express themselves, empowers them to use their voice to tell their story, and subsequently improves brain activity, literacy, self-esteem, and much more.

Throughout her career, she has developed show choir programs at multiple schools, while inviting students of any ability into her classroom, and on to the stage, to experience the power of music.

Beyond exposing students to the arts through field trips, plays, concerts, workshops, and performances that have embedded a rich passion and life-long love for music in their hearts, Beth’s greatest accomplishments have been recruiting, training, and mentoring new music teachers at every level.

Beth's Message

My love for Alvord has spanned over six decades. Our Air Force family landed in the orange groves of La Sierra, where I started as a student in the 1970’s. Parenting and teaching in our district filled the years with so much joy! I have been blessed beyond imagination on this journey, far exceeding anything I could have ever hoped or dreamed. My dear husband and I proudly raised our four children in the same schools that invested in us. My first teachers were my parents, who taught me everything I needed to know about God, loving others, working hard, and sparking enthusiasm. My students are my calling, my purpose, my delight. I am forever indebted to my Alvord family, and the RCOE team led by Dr. Gomez, who have generously poured resources and support into our community so that we can better serve our most precious resource, our children.