Seven Educators and Volunteers Honored at 34th Annual Lew Roth Awards
(CLAIR | Simi Valley, CA) — Seven educators and volunteers received recognition on April 27 for their exceptional contributions to local schools during the 34th annual Lew Roth Awards ceremony at Strathearn Historical Park.
More than 140 colleagues, friends and family members gathered for the event hosted by the Simi Valley Education Foundation to celebrate the 2025-2026 award recipients, who were selected for their extraordinary service to the Simi Valley Unified School District.
"Each year, this event recognizes individuals whose extraordinary service makes a meaningful difference in our schools and expands opportunities for students," foundation officials said. The awards span seven categories, from classroom teachers to district management to community volunteers.
Sean Goldman from SVUSD received the Management Award, while Sarah Gerfen from Sinaloa Middle School earned the Certificated Award. Denise Len from Berylwood Elementary was honored in the Classified category, and Terri Brosky from Hillside Middle School received the Special Education Award.
Mary Carstensen from Santa Susana Elementary School took the Volunteer Award. Daniel Maye from Royal High School received the Lifetime Achievement Award, and Aldo Calcagno from Arroyo Elementary earned the Legacy Award.
Three of this year's honorees are retiring, adding special significance to their recognition. During the ceremony, recipients shared stories from their years working with students and staff, offering personal reflections on their careers in education.
Sarah Gerfen experienced a particularly memorable moment when a former student spoke about the lasting impact she made during their middle school years. These personal connections underscore the long-term influence educators have on young lives, the foundation said in a statement.
Lindsay Roth, granddaughter of the award's namesake, spoke to guests about her grandfather's legacy and the inspiration behind the recognition. Lew Roth founded the Simi Valley Education Foundation in 1989 after serving 23 years as a school board trustee. His commitment to educational excellence established a tradition that continues to highlight the dedication of those who serve local students.
The foundation created these awards to recognize not just outstanding individual performance, but the collective effort of educators, support staff and volunteers who strengthen the entire school community. Each category acknowledges different aspects of educational service, from direct classroom instruction to administrative leadership to community support.
The ceremony took place at Strathearn Historical Park, providing a fitting backdrop for an event that celebrates both educational achievement and community history. The park's setting reinforced the connection between the district's current success and the community's long-standing commitment to education.
District officials noted that recognition events like the Lew Roth Awards help retain quality educators and attract new talent to local schools. The public celebration of excellent work creates a culture where educational excellence is valued and supported.
The award recipients represent schools across the district, from elementary through high school levels. Their combined years of service demonstrate the depth of experience and commitment within the local education system.
As three honorees transition into retirement, their recognition serves as both celebration and transition, acknowledging careers dedicated to student success while inspiring the next generation of educators to continue that work. The foundation's continued support ensures that exceptional service to students remains visible and valued throughout the community.
