Teacher of the Year

Susan B. Coombs Alternative Education
Banning Unified School District

James Waedekin, honored as Riverside County Teacher of the Year, brings 17 years of dedication to education and currently teaching English at New Horizon High School in Banning Unified School District. Transitioning from a struggling actor/writer in Hollywood, James found his calling in education, where he integrates his love for writing and theater into his teaching. He is recognized for his multifaceted contributions, including serving as PBIS Coordinator, running the Drama Club, advising the Yearbook, and developing Career Readiness Portfolios. James’s impact extends beyond the classroom; he is celebrated as an award-winning playwright and published children’s book author. Colleagues commend his integrity, devotion to students, and commitment to creating a positive and inclusive learning environment.

James' Message

Friendships, relationships, parental expectations, schoolwork, standardized testing, graduating, getting a job, getting into college .... Yikes! The high school world is a dramatic one. A lot of ground to cover in a very short time. Sometimes other issues plague our students, too. Teenage trauma, bullying, gang violence, depression, suicide. Hurting others. Hurting ourselves. Even … surviving the aftermath of a pandemic. If you were to ask me why I teach? My classroom is the stage for our “rehearsals for life.” I believe that I have not done my job if by graduation my students do not have a sense of who they are, where they’ve come from, what they want in their future, and what values they are taking with them. Courageously. Their life stories are their strength. And their stories continue to inspire me, and to compel me to be a better teacher. Thank you Superintendent Dr. Gomez and the Riverside County Office of Education for selecting me to represent Riverside County teachers. I am truly honored to be a part of the long tradition of extraordinary educators who’ve received this recognition before me, and those alongside me today. I want to thank the Banning USD, Superintendent Terrence Davis, our school board, and my principal, Dr. Melissa Lee, for their continued leadership, dedication, and support, always proving … “IT BEGINS WITH ME.” I am grateful to be a part of this community. I am grateful to be a part of this family.