Honoring Laura Downs, Joanna Pritchard, Laura Martinez and Jimmy Lambos
The Huntington Beach City School District (HBCSD) is proud to recognize four outstanding team members as our April Shoreline Standouts: Laura Downs and Joanna Pritchard from Seacliff Elementary School, Laura Martinez from Educational Services, and Jimmy Lambos from the Superintendent’s Office. Together, these honorees reflect the care, professionalism, and dedication that strengthen our schools and District community each day.
Each month, the Shoreline Standouts program celebrates employees who positively impact their school communities, exemplify the HBCSD Learner Profile traits, and bring the District’s focus areas to life through their daily work. This month’s recipients are recognized for their collaboration, compassion, and commitment to supporting students, families, and colleagues across the District.
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Laura Downs is recognized for her dedication to students, her compassion, and her commitment to ensuring every student receives the support they need to succeed. As a teacher at Seacliff Elementary, Laura creates a classroom environment where students feel supported, challenged, and excited to learn.
One nominator shared a powerful example of Laura’s impact when she recognized a student’s speech difficulties and took immediate action to ensure the student received a proper evaluation and speech services. Her advocacy and decisive action made a lasting difference in that student’s confidence and future success.
Parents and colleagues describe Laura as patient, thoughtful, and deeply committed to her students’ individual needs. Beyond the classroom, she supports schoolwide activities and leadership opportunities for students, helping them build confidence and develop leadership skills. Her strong communication with families and collaboration with colleagues help create a positive and supportive school community.
Through her dedication to student success, leadership, and community engagement, Laura reflects Academic Achievement, Supportive School Environments, and Engaged Community while demonstrating the HBCSD Learner Profile traits of Caring, Responsibility, and Resourcefulness.
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Joanna Pritchard is recognized for her patience, skill, and dedication to supporting students with diverse learning and behavioral needs. As a Paraeducator at Seacliff Elementary, Joanna works closely with students, providing individualized academic, behavioral, and social-emotional support to help them succeed in the classroom and beyond.
Nominators shared that Joanna consistently handles challenging situations with patience, care, and positivity. She builds strong relationships with students and families and goes above and beyond to ensure students feel supported and successful.
Her skill in implementing individualized supports and behavioral strategies helps students access instruction and build confidence. Joanna’s work supports not only individual students but also classroom teachers and the broader school community by helping to create a positive, supportive learning environment for all students.
Through her dedication to students and collaboration with staff, Joanna reflects Academic Achievement and Supportive School Environments while demonstrating the HBCSD Learner Profile traits of Caring, Responsibility, Resourcefulness, and Self-Awareness.
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Laura Martinez plays an essential role in supporting the Educational Services team and helping ensure the department runs smoothly for the benefit of staff and students across the District. Known for her attention to detail, knowledge, and willingness to help, Laura is a trusted resource for colleagues and a positive presence in the District Office.
Nominators shared that Laura is incredibly resourceful and always available to provide support and guidance to others. She helps keep projects, stipends, reimbursements, and programs organized and on track, all while maintaining a welcoming and supportive attitude. Her behind-the-scenes work helps ensure that teachers, staff, and programs have what they need to support students effectively.
Laura has also made a meaningful impact on the culture of the Educational Services division by intentionally bringing staff together through events and opportunities that build connection and collaboration across departments and has strengthened collaboration and efficiency across the District.
Through her dedication, collaboration, and positive impact on District culture, Laura reflects Supportive School Environments and Responsible Use of Resources while demonstrating the HBCSD Learner Profile traits of Resourcefulness, Caring, Responsibility, and Collaboration.
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Jimmy Lambos is known throughout the District for working behind the scenes to ensure everything runs smoothly. As the Superintendent’s Assistant, Jimmy supports District operations with organization, reliability, and a commitment to service.
Colleagues shared that Jimmy anticipates challenges and helps resolve issues. His reliability and teamwork help create a supportive environment where others can focus on their work and on serving students. He is described as a collaborator and organizer who brings people together with clarity, purpose, and positivity.
Beyond his organizational skills, nominators highlighted Jimmy’s kindness, positivity, and care for students, education, and the people he works alongside. His ability to maintain a positive outlook and strong relationships makes him an invaluable member of the District team.
Jimmy’s work reflects Supportive School Environments, Engaged Community, and Leadership Development while demonstrating the HBCSD Learner Profile traits of Caring, Responsibility, Resourcefulness, and Collaboration.
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These four honorees remind us that the strength of HBCSD comes from the dedication of individuals across every role and department, each contributing in unique ways to support student success and a thriving school community.
Please join us in congratulating Laura Downs, Joanna Pritchard, Laura Martinez, and Jimmy Lambos, our April Shoreline Standouts. Their dedication, compassion, and professionalism continue to bring Purpose in Action to life across Huntington Beach City School District.
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