The 2026 District Teacher of the Year is Robin Larson, VAPA Teacher at PRIDE Academy!
Robin has served this district for 31 years, most recently spearheading the VAPA program that started in 2024. Robin’s enthusiasm for music education is nothing short of contagious. From kindergarten through eighth grade, she engages students with a passion that sparks curiosity, creativity, and a lifelong love of music. Walk into her classroom—or better yet, attend one of her performances—and you’ll immediately feel the energy, joy, and sense of belonging she creates for every student.
What truly sets Robin apart is her ability to transform music education into a vibrant, community-centered experience. Throughout the year, students explore a wide range of musical opportunities—from pumpkin drumming in the fall to Irish jigs in the spring, and everything in between. Whether using boomwhackers, keyboards, or joining the trumpet club, every student at PRIDE Academy can find their place in music. She has also launched innovative musical productions, adapting beloved films like Moana and Beauty and the Beast, giving students the opportunity to learn about all aspects of production from set design to costume creation to acting.
A dedicated advocate for the arts, Robin has worked to expand opportunities for students through grant writing and partnerships with music organizations. Her efforts have helped secure instruments and resources that enrich the program, while her travels around the world have allowed her to bring diverse cultural instruments and experiences back to her students.
Robin embodies the very best of teacher leadership. She brings infectious enthusiasm, an open mind, and a constant drive to refine her craft. A natural collaborator, she generously shares her talents and ideas, always with the goal of improving outcomes for students and supporting her colleagues.
Robin has previously been recognized as PRIDE Academy’s 2010 Teacher of the Year and the 2011 Santee School District Teacher of the Year. Beyond awards and accolades, Robin’s true legacy lies in the confidence she builds in her students, the creativity she nurtures, and the community she strengthens. As part of our growing VAPA initiative—now a vital component of the student experience—Robin helps ensure that every child has access to the arts as a pathway to collaboration, critical thinking, and self-expression.
Please join our district in celebrating Robin Larson for the passion, innovation, and heart she brings to education every single day. Her work is a powerful reminder of the difference one extraordinary teacher can make.
From Left: Assistant Superintendent of Educational Services, Dr. Lisa Paisley; Assistant Superintendent of Business Services, Dr. Marcia Hamilton; Robin Larson; Superintendent, Dr. Kristin Baranski; PRIDE Academy Principal, Dr. Kristen Bonser.