FRESNO, Calif. (KFSN) — Every year, the Fresno County Superintendent of Schools recognizes educators who are making a difference.<\/p>\n
This year, “Teacher of the Year” was awarded to a preschool teacher in Central Fresno.<\/p>\n
As a Preschool Master Teacher, Maritza Ceballos isn’t afraid to get her hands dirty.<\/p>\n
She learned early on in her career that she was interested in working with the smallest students.<\/p>\n
“Just seeing how excited they were, learning new things and just helping them set the foundation,” Ceballos said.<\/p>\n
She’s been working at Lighthouse for Children Child Development Center in Downtown Fresno for the last nine years.<\/p>\n
Her classroom is dual language, so she teaches students English and Spanish.<\/p>\n
Barbara Daniel used to be Maritza’s supervisor. She describes Maritza as an exceptional educator.<\/p>\n
“Maritza is very passionate about the work she does with young children. From the time you walk in her classroom, you just feel like you’re immersed in learning,” Daniel said.<\/p>\n
Seeing Martiza’s enthusiasm for her students and interest in making them each feel special motivated Barbara to nominate Maritza for Fresno County Superintendent of Schools Teacher of the Year.<\/p>\n
“Maritza represents the very best in the profession, and I felt it was important to elevate her work and ensure her contributions were recognized at a broader level in the education community,” Daniel said.<\/p>\n
Last November, she was formally recognized as Teacher of the Year for 2025. She acknowledged how grateful she was to have each of her students.<\/p>\n
“It is a privilege to teach them and to be part of building a strong foundation for their learning,” Ceballos said in her speech.<\/p>\n
Back in the classroom, Maritza says despite her new title — for now — she has no plans to go anywhere.<\/p>\n
“I can’t, I don’t see myself leaving my kids, even though, I mean, I get new ones every year, but, yeah, that’s my calling,” Ceballos said.<\/p>\n
Because Maritza was named teacher of the year, she is now eligible to advance to the California Department of Education’s statewide recognition program.<\/p>\n
For news updates, follow Jessica Harrington on Facebook<\/a>, X<\/a> and Instagram<\/a>.<\/p>\n Copyright \u00a9 2026 KFSN-TV. All Rights Reserved.<\/p>\n