Katie Anderson
Staff Writer
Photo caption: The 2024 Teacher of the Year, Lilla Foster makes meaningful connections with her students that last far after graduation.Through the relationships that Foster creates, she is able to work with students in order to help in the way that is best for them personally. Photo Credits: Katie Anderson
As a high schooler, Lilla Foster read an impactful teacher’s story of her experience working with students that faced emotional trauma.The memoir’s discussion of the change she was able to affect really drew Foster to teaching, as she felt that this was a way to positively influence the learning of many.
Now, as the 2024 Mira Costa Teacher of the Year and the Special Education Department Chair, Foster continues to leave positive impacts on students’ lives. Foster has been a crucial part of the Mira Costa High School staff for 25 years, and she brings her passion and caring attitude to the classroom, which gives her the ability to connect with a wide variety of students.
“When I found out I was nominated for teacher of the year, my first reaction, honestly, was surprise, and a little discomfort since I’m not exactly comfortable in the spotlight,” said Foster. “But I’m truly quite honored!”
Foster’s teaching surrounds the importance of connecting and working with her students in order to help in the way that is best for them individually. According to Foster, one of her favorite parts of her job is the relationships she is able to make with students, as she works with them for all of their high school career.
“My favorite part of teaching, as cliche as it sounds, is the chance to develop meaningful relationships with my students and see the growth and changes over the years.” Foster said. “And I love the “team” feel of the Learning Center, it’s nice to be able to work collaboratively, seek feedback, and share ideas with the rest of the “LC Gang”.”
Foster creates a safe space within her classroom where students are able to excel. According to Carmen Biernat, Foster’s colleague of 18 years, Foster’s positive impact on her students and the learning center is everlasting.
“I think [Foster] is amazing and dedicated. If you can change one life out of all the students that you have, then that is her goal. But it seems as if she’s making a mark on every student that she has. ” Biernat said.
Bernat went on to add that when people come to Foster with questions, she finds a way to help. “That is her goal and she enjoys it. She is a department chair and everybody comes to her for everything, and she is going to problem solve and find an answer.”
Foster says her goal is to make students feel like they have a place where they can be themselves. Many of Foster’s students reach out after they have graduated, therefore showing the impact that Foster has on her students’ lives.
“I always love when students keep in touch and I am able to see what paths they’ve taken in life. It seems that I am able to enjoy heartfelt laughter and truly touching moments on a regular basis, and that keeps you going.” Foster said. “For a lot of the students I work with, school isn’t necessarily a positive experience, and so if it makes school more enjoyable to get through or inspiring to get through, that’s what the goal is, to really just make it better and help them find themselves and find their way.”
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