Stacey Halboth, a dedicated reading specialist, is honored as a Classroom Hero for her 35-year career, which has inspired global citizenship and community service.
SAN DIEGO — The San Diego County Credit Union has named Stacey Halboth, a reading specialist at Rowe Elementary School, as this month’s Classroom Hero, recognizing her 35-year career dedicated to teaching students the importance of global citizenship and service to their communities.
Halboth, who teaches kindergarten through fifth grade, received a $500 Visa Gift Card and recognition from CBS 8 and SDCCU for her transformative work in the classroom and beyond. The award comes just months before her retirement in June. For 35 years, Ms. Halboth has shown that lessons learned in a school can ripple across the entire world.
Superintendent Kim Pinkerton of the Rancho Santa Fe School District emphasized what sets Halboth apart. “Her heart, she just wants the kids to thrive,” said Pinkerton.
Throughout her career, Halboth has implemented numerous innovative programs that connect students to real-world issues. More than 30 years ago, she created Ocean Week at the school, an interdisciplinary ocean stewardship program that brings the sea into the classroom and takes students to the ocean.
Beyond environmental education, Halboth has inspired her students to support global causes. From 2016 to 2024, she worked with students to establish more than 22 libraries across African nations. “Yes, 22 libraries, I even have the pictures of the ships, I even get pictures of the book that were going over there,” said Halboth.
As a reading and writing specialist, Halboth provides individualized support to struggling learners. “Somedays I don’t know how to write the paragraph and she just helps me with the periods and everything,” said Daniel Kern, one of her students.
Halboth has also championed support for military veterans through Honor Flight San Diego, a nonprofit organization that escorts veterans to Washington, D.C., to visit memorials. She organized an annual jog-a-thon that raises funds for the program and encourages students to write thank you letters to veterans by the hundreds. The fundraising efforts helped send 96-year-old Purple Heart recipient George Sousa to Washington, D.C., with Halboth serving as his personal escort.
“Some of them they sacrificed their life just to help our country,” said Talon Donovan, explaining why students participate in the jog-a-thon for veterans.
Reflecting on her approach to education, Halboth emphasized character development. “I love the respect that the students give to them. I’m all about character and who you are when no one is watching,” said Halboth.
When learning of the Classroom Hero award, Halboth expressed surprise. “That blows my mind, I never thought I’d be a Classroom Hero,” said Halboth.
Despite her impending retirement, Halboth remains excited about the next chapter. “I can’t even fathom it yet, but I am excited to retire I am excited to see the next step,” said Halboth.
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The San Diego County Credit Union’s Classroom Heroes program recognizes exceptional educators throughout the region. To nominate a special teacher, click here. The grand prize winner receives a five-day getaway to the Kona Kai San Diego Resort with spa treatments, food, and fun activities.