GREENFIELD — Read to Me Project has named Cherie Smith, a fourth-grade teacher at Mary Chapa Academy in Greenfield, as its 2026 Teacher of the Year.
During a special presentation held May 6 at her classroom, Smith was honored with the award, as well as balloons and flowers donated by Milenio Flower Shop. Among the attendees at the ceremony were Read to Me Project Executive Director Jason Little and Greenfield Union School District Superintendent Laura Cortez.
Now in its fifth year, the recognition honors educators across Monterey County who promote literacy, student leadership and a culture of reading beyond the classroom.
Smith was selected for her commitment to the Read to Me Project model and her efforts to engage students as literacy leaders. Her classroom emphasizes reading aloud, peer support and encouraging students to extend reading habits into their homes and communities.
“Ms. Smith embodies everything we hope to celebrate in this award,” Little said. “She does not just implement our program. She elevates it. Her leadership inspires her students and creates a ripple effect that reaches families and other classrooms across Monterey County.”
This year, Smith’s class became the first winners of Read to Me Project’s Read for All Winter Break Challenge. The two-week initiative was designed to address the documented decline in reading engagement during school breaks by encouraging students to continue reading at home. The class achieved a record-setting total score of 719, topping all participating classrooms and schools across Monterey County.
A statement posted by Mary Chapa Academy on social media read: “Congratulations to Ms. Smith, our 4th grade teacher, for being recognized by the Read to Me Project as Monterey County’s Teacher of the Year! We are so proud of your dedication, hard work, and impact on our students!”
Little said Smith’s classroom demonstrates how “strong relationships, high expectations and consistent engagement” can improve literacy outcomes.
As Read to Me Project marks its fifth year of honoring literacy leadership, the organization encouraged community partners and supporters to celebrate Smith and the role educators play in shaping students and families across Monterey County. On June 23, Smith will be recognized by Monterey County Supervisor Chris Lopez with a county resolution recognizing her award.
