From left, Placer County Superintendent of Schools Gayle Garbolino-Mojica, 2025 Placer County High School Teacher of the Year Holly Gotwals, and Rocklin Unified School District Superintendent Roger Stock.

ROCKLIN, CA (MPG) – Placer County Superintendent of Schools Gayle Garbolino-Mojica is pleased to announce the following 2025 Placer County Teachers of the Year:

Steve Kinloch, sixth-grade teacher at Ridgeview Elementary School in the Eureka Union School District.

Min Qu, seventh and eighth-grade Mandarin teacher at Rocklin Academy Gateway in the Rocklin Academy Family of Schools.

Holly Gotwals, Special Education teacher for the Rocklin Unified Transition Program in the Rocklin Unified School District.

“Excellence in education doesn’t happen by chance—it’s built by passionate educators who go above and beyond every day,” said Superintendent Garbolino-Mojica. “In Placer County, we’re proud to celebrate the teachers who inspire achievement, nurture growth, and make our schools places where students thrive.”

Steve Kinloch, 2025 Placer County Elementary School Teacher of the Year

Mr. Kinloch is a dedicated educator known for blending high academic standards with hands-on learning and strong social-emotional support. He played a key role in developing Ridgeview Elementary School's EcoLab and champions success for all students. His leadership and commitment make him a valued member of the Ridgeview community.

From left, Eureka Union School District Board President Jeffrey Conklin, Placer County Superintendent of Schools Gayle Garbolino-Mojica, 2025 Placer County Elementary School Teacher of the Year Steve Kinloch, Eureka Union School District Board Member Renee Nash, and Eureka Union School District Superintendent Tom Janis. Photo courtesy of Placer County

Min Qu, 2025 Placer County Middle Grades Teacher of the Yea

Min Qu is a dedicated Mandarin teacher at Rocklin Academy Gateway, known for creating an engaging and immersive learning environment. She inspires students to develop strong language skills and cultural understanding while fostering meaningful connections. Her passion and innovation make her a standout middle school educator.

From left, Rocklin Academy Family of Schools Board Member Larry Stieber, Placer County Superintendent of Schools Gayle Garbolino-Mojica, 2025 Placer County Middle Grades Teacher of the Year Min Qu, and Rocklin Academy Family of Schools Executive Director/Superintendent Robin Stout. Photo courtesy of Placer County

 

Holly Gotwals, 2025 Placer County High School Teacher of the Year

Holly Gotwals is a compassionate educator serving 18 to 22-year-olds with special needs. She empowers her students through personalized learning and real-world job training, building independence and confidence to prepare them for success in education, work, and life.

Ms. Gotwals has been selected as the Placer County representative to advance to the state-wide California Teacher of the Year program through the California Department of Education.

Each year, the Placer County Office of Education honors three Teachers of the Year – Elementary School, Middle Grades and High School – through a process that highlights educational innovation, student learning, a commitment to professional development and empathy for all students to ensure equity in education. Further, the program highlights the positive aspects of our educational system. This year, 22 teachers from across the county were nominated from their respective districts.