Three Newport-Mesa Unified School District (NMUSD) educators were honored as the district’s top teachers of the year at the Newport-Mesa Schools Foundation’s (NMSF) Teacher Awards Night. Through a districtwide process that included school nominations and panel interviews, Serenity Fisher, Lelah Langworthy, and Jacqueline Washington were selected to represent NMUSD in the Orange County Department of Education’s Teacher of the Year program next year. They will also be recognized at the May 18, 2026, Board of Education meeting.

“These outstanding educators exemplify the dedication and expertise we see across NMUSD,” said Superintendent Dr. Wesley Smith. “They set high expectations, build strong relationships, and create learning environments where students can thrive,” he said.

Serenity Fisher, Andersen Elementary

Ms. Fisher, a sixth-grade teacher at Andersen Elementary, is known for creating a classroom where students feel safe, supported, and ready to learn. She works closely with her grade-level team to meet the needs of every student, using collaboration to strengthen instruction. Her focus on connection and encouragement helps students stay engaged and confident as they take on new challenges in their learning. In her four years with the district, Ms. Fisher has also grown Andersen’s Math Olympiad program, developing students’ math skills and their excitement about the subject.  

Lelah Langworthy, Paularino Elementary

During her 21 years with NMUSD, Ms. Langworthy has taught multiple grade levels, giving her a broad understanding of how students grow and learn. Before bringing her enthusiasm for learning to second graders at Paularino Elementary, she taught fourth and fifth grades at Davis Magnet School. Ms. Langworthy is committed to helping students build strong academic foundations while also supporting their confidence and curiosity. She also values working closely with families, helping them stay connected to their child’s learning and progress. 

Jacqueline Washington, TeWinkle Middle School

During Ms. Washington’s 25 years serving TeWinkle Middle School students, she has helped create opportunities for students to see themselves as capable learners with strong futures. As the AVID Instructional Coach at TeWinkle Middle School, Ms. Washington focuses on supporting students who will be the first in their families to attend college, helping them build the skills and confidence needed for success. Whether teaching eighth-grade history or serving as a teacher on special assignment, her work centers on perseverance, goal-setting, and preparing students for life beyond middle school. 

As part of the district’s broader Teacher of the Year program, each school recognized one outstanding educator, all of whom were also celebrated at the foundation’s event for their meaningful contributions to their students, colleagues, and school communities. 

The annual event also included the foundation’s Grants for Teachers program, awarding more than $119,000 in support of innovative classroom projects that expand opportunities for students. Funds for the grants are donations from special events, such as the district’s State of the Schools Breakfast; membership fees; and local communities, families, and businesses.  

NMUSD congratulates Ms. Fisher, Ms. Langworthy, and Ms. Washington on this well-deserved recognition and thanks all educators across the district for their continued dedication to student achievement and success. 

Additional photos from the event can be found on the district’s online gallery.