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Congratulations Mr. Wall!! Kids learn from those they love and Sunny Hills loves you!! Sunny Hills High School 1801 Warburton Way, Fullerton, CA 92833 Parenting OC Magazine | March 2017 51 www.ParentingOC.com TOP TEACHERS OF ORANGE COUNTY Jennifer Ferrara Charles G. Emery Elementary, Buena Park Much like the Eleanor Roosevelt quote, "Life was meant to be lived," Miss Ferrara does indeed live life. She comes at it with the intensity of a laser beam, the speed of a locomotive, the gentleness of a well-loved teddy bear, and the passion of a conductor orchestrating his favorite piece of music. It is also how she embraces teaching. Few can match her energy, drive, or creativity. She is demanding yet fair. Her standards are high, yet when her students fi rst think, "I can't" they soon discover they can. Her students embrace the joy of learning, become life long learners, and move on with confi dence in their own ability. As a result, they become better people. Miss Ferrara doesn't know the meaning of the word "no." From organizing massive district retirement parties, putting together our yearbook over her holiday break, her multitude of committees — she is the complete package. We are so blessed to call her not only our col- league, but also our friend. Mona Hijazi New Horizon School, Irvine For nearly 20 years, Mrs. Hijazi has used art as a conduit for students to connect with their culture and community. "Dream out loud, express your dreams, and dare to make a difference" lines her studio walls. Every lesson connects students with a deeper sense of themselves and for humanity. While teach- ing Picasso's "Blue Period," she shared how it coincided with the death of Picasso's close friend. Students learned about a master artist, how a color can evoke a feeling, and how expression through art can create a sense of compassion and empathy. For eight years, she has documented the students' school experiences in the yearbook with the same love and beauty she brings to her art class. She often fi nds notes and drawings from students, tokens of love and appreciation. Our Parents' Association unanimously and enthusiastically selected Mrs. Mona Hijazi as Top Teacher for the beauty she brings to our school and for the way she has touched every student's heart.