El Dorado High School Teacher Honored at ACS Awards Banquet

On May 19, El Dorado High School chemistry teacher Stephanie Shirey was honored as the 2026 Carol Grimes Chemistry Teacher of the Year at the American Chemical Society (ACS) Awards Banquet on May 19, recognizing her exceptional contributions to science education and her unwavering commitment to student success.

A highly respected educator with a Bachelor of Science in Chemistry from the University of California, San Diego and a Master of Education degree, Shirey has dedicated 25 years to teaching and inspiring young scientists. For the past decade, she has also contributed to the prestigious UCI COSMOS program, helping students explore advanced STEM opportunities beyond the classroom.

As an Honors Chemistry and Advanced Placement Chemistry teacher at El Dorado High School, Shirey is known for her student-centered approach and deep commitment to ensuring every learner succeeds. She regularly devotes her breaks, lunch periods, and after-school hours to providing additional support, demonstrating a level of care and dedication that extends far beyond the school day.

During the award selection process, observers noted Shirey’s ability to maximize instructional time while creating an engaging and highly interactive learning environment. Through hands-on laboratory experiences, students safely investigate chemical reactions and scientific concepts while developing critical thinking skills. Her classroom is characterized by active participation, with every student engaged in the learning process. Observers also highlighted her intentional practice of visiting each lab group to ask probing questions and assess individual understanding, ensuring students develop both confidence and mastery of the material.

The impact of Shirey’s teaching is perhaps best reflected in the words of her students. One former student described her classroom as “a home,” praising her as one of the most effective, committed, and passionate educators they had ever encountered. Another shared that AP Chemistry remains their favorite high school course because Shirey inspired a lifelong appreciation for the subject. A third student reflected on the personal connections she builds with her students, noting that she understood their strengths, challenges, and anxieties, and always offered patient guidance and encouragement.

In addition to being celebrated by members of the scientific community, Shirey’s achievement was recognized by colleagues and administrators who attended the awards banquet to congratulate her on this distinguished honor.

Known for her humility, expertise, and genuine care for students, Shirey has inspired countless young people to pursue opportunities in science, technology, engineering, and mathematics. Her selection as the 2026 Carol Grimes Chemistry Teacher of the Year is a testament to her extraordinary impact on students, colleagues, and the broader educational community.

The El Dorado High School community and the Placentia-Yorba Linda Unified School District proudly congratulate Stephanie Shirey on this well-deserved recognition and thank her for her continued dedication to excellence in education.