Lew Roth Awards honor Simi Valley’s standout teachers, staff and partners
(CLAIR | Simi Valley, CA) — The courtyard at Strathearn Historical Park was filled with laughter, hugs, and a few happy tears as more than 100 people came together to celebrate this year’s Lew Roth Award recipients. Hosted by the Simi Valley Education Foundation, the reception honored seven individuals and one community partner whose work has made a lasting difference in the lives of local students.
Now in its 33rd year, the awards are named after former SVUSD Trustee Lew Roth, who founded the Foundation to help schools offer the kinds of opportunities every child deserves. Before the awards were handed out, guests reflected on Roth’s legacy—and how his belief in community-powered education lives on through those who continue to serve with compassion and dedication.
Each recipient learned they had won through a surprise visit from Foundation board members earlier in the month, often surrounded by cheering co-workers and students. The reception gave them a chance to share what the honor meant to them, often through heartfelt stories about the people and moments that shaped their journey.
One of those honored was school nurse Mary Carol Sorrells, whose 24 years of care and calm have supported students and staff across the district. Volunteer Laurie Hoffman spoke of the joy she feels helping at Santa Susana High. Jake Finch, the district’s Public Information Officer, was recognized for her kindness, responsiveness, and commitment to helping families feel informed and welcome.
The Ronald Reagan Presidential Foundation & Institute was named Community Partner of the Year. Dr. Richard Schroeder, Chief Education Programming Officer, spoke about the Foundation’s longtime connection to Royal High School through the Ronald Reagan Citizen Scholar Institute, and a new expansion of that partnership with the launch of the Ronald Reagan Academy of Communication & Leadership at Sinaloa Middle School. The program gives middle schoolers hands-on experiences in broadcasting, debate, and civic engagement—building leadership skills that will serve them well into the future.
This year’s Lew Roth Award recipients are:
Management – Jennifer Conmay
Certificated – John Downey
Classified – Jake Finch
Classified – Janice Osborne
Special Education – Colleen Conklin
Volunteer – Laurie Hoffman
Lifetime Achievement – Mary Carol Sorrells
Community Partner – The Ronald Reagan Foundation & Institute
To learn more about the education foundation, visit www.svef.org.
