May Award for Excellence Winner

Xochitl Naranjo, Title Teacher, Jefferson Elementary and Woodland Park Elementary, is the recipient of the NPS Award for Excellence for May 2025.

Thank you, Xochitl, for your dedication, hard work, and service to our students, staff, and the NPS community!

Listed below are excerpts from some of the submitted narratives of Ms. Naranjo's nomination:

  • Xochitl Naranjo is a consummate educator. She's constantly reflecting and adjusting her instruction to help students succeed without sacrificing any rigor. She seeks collaboration with fellow teachers and is a source of positivity in our building. 
  • Xochitl’s dedication, professionalism, and compassion shine through in everything she does. She consistently goes above and beyond to support both students and staff, creating a positive and welcoming environment at Jefferson. Her collaborative spirit, reliability, and genuine care for others make her not only an exceptional team member but also a deeply respected and appreciated presence in our school community. 
  • Last year a Senior boy came into our ELL room and wanted to see Xochitl.  She was not in the classroom at that time So, I told him to write down what he wanted to say to her.  He expressed to me his appreciation of everything she had done for him!  He had big plans for his future and could speak perfect English because of his early years of Xochitl’s teaching and encouragement!  She makes a positive and lasting impact on all her students!  I have been fortunate to see the amazing progress of her students! 
  • Xochitl collaborates with the staff around her. She puts in many hours for her students. Xochitl is also fun and outgoing. You can always guarantee she will say "hi" in the hall, ask how you are doing and about your family, and make everyone laugh. I couldn't think of anyone more hardworking than Xoch or more deserving of the Award for Excellence. She is truly amazing! 
  • Xochitl is the most caring and hardest working teacher. She is always trying to do what's best for her students and families. Xochitl is always going above and beyond to make sure the students are getting what they need. Not only is Xochitl an excellent teacher she is amazing to work with. Xochitl can always make you laugh and put a smile on the students face. We are so lucky to have her. 
  • Xochitl is one of a kind! She is so compassionate with her teaching.  She wants her students to be successful and she tries very hard and uses such creative techniques to help her students succeed. She is always willing to help out with translation and help me with my parents.  She is such a great person and has a heart of GOLD. 
  • Mrs. Naranjo is special to our school because she taught me how to learn English when I was in 2nd grade. She was really nice. She taught me well.  And now I know English perfectly and I still know French. She taught me how to read and how to write in English.She also taught my friends too and that takes hard work. And she teaches second graders, 1st graders, kindergarteners, 4th graders and other people in 3rd grade.  (Student)

Xochitl received her award at the Board of Education meeting on Monday, May 12 at 5:30 pm.  Please congratulate Xochitl on this well-deserved award!