2021 Excellence in Education

Education Professional

Treg Painter

Known among his colleagues as an innovative, empathetic and passionate educational leader, Treg Painter is the 2021 Education Medal of Honor, Excellence in Education/Education Professional award recipient.

As a math teacher at Curtis Middle School in the San Bernardino City Unified School District, Painter’s strong desire to improve student learning thoroughly embodies the motto of his district—make hope happen.

He has built a positive classroom environment with 100 percent participation through distance learning. He has leveraged classroom technology to keep students engaged and nearly doubled the pass rate on the California Assessment of Student Performance and Progress in math.

Many of his colleagues agree that Treg cultivates a positive classroom environment. His dedication to supporting his fellow teachers is a crucial part of his educational philosophy.

“We are so lucky to have this passionate and committed teacher in our ranks, and I am excited to see what he decides to do next,” said program specialist Morgan Pellettera.

Painter serves as the mathematics department chair, administrative designee, teacher induction program mentor and demonstration teacher.

He also participates in Noyce Fellowship Project, a partnership with California State University, San Bernardino. The fellowship project is designed for math and science undergraduate students to ensure that they are prepared for the classroom environment.

Painter has the technical knowledge and expertise to use data as a tool to improve instructional delivery to elevate equitable student outcomes. He uses these tools to collaboratively design and lead high-performing education systems within the district.

Student Alumni

Tiffany Hampton

Dedicated to ensuring equitable learning opportunities for students and fostering a positive campus and district culture are just some of the many reasons Tiffany Hampton is a recipient of the 2021 Education Medal of Honor, Excellence in Education/Student Alumni.

Hampton believes in the success of all students and consistently lets them know she cares as principal of Slover Mountain High School in the Colton Joint Unified School District, the district she graduated from nearly 20 years ago.

In her role as principal, she promotes success with expectations for student achievement and attendance. Hampton has adeptly used technology to continue as many normal activities as possible to keep her students engaged.

Hampton instills a sense of pride in her students for attending a continuation school. This helps students overcome obstacles and has led to positive results with increased graduation rates.

Inclusivity is a focus of her leadership compass and she is active with campus and district initiatives to champion equity for all students. She leads the African American Parent Advisory Committee, Black Community Coalition and has organized numerous activities and events that promote diversity.

Tiffany Hampton was recently honored with the Association of California School Administrators (ACSA) Region 12 Continuation/Educational Options Administrator of the Year.

“She truly cares about them and it shows in all she does,” said Colton Superintendent Dr. Frank Miranda in his nomination. “I truly believe she is an exemplary role model.”