(Compton, CA) The Compton Unified School District Board of Trustees announced its 2020-2021 Teacher of the Year: Alvaro Brito, 21st Century Learning Specialist known for being called upon to provide expertise in educational technology and STEAM Innovation for schools across the District.

“Alvaro's support came at a critical time as the District pivoted to distance learning, at the onset of the pandemic,” said Superintendent Dr. Darin Brawley. “Alvaro helped move the district forward by providing leadership and support in developing a distance learning model.”

Brito also led the creation of professional development for distance and hybrid learning.

“It is abundantly clear that Mr. Brito is a dedicated teacher who is always focused on improving student learning and achievement through the innovative use of technology,” said President Micah Ali.

Brito was born is Los Angeles and raised in the neighboring city of Lynwood, CA.

His inspiration to become an educator was the direct result of educators who believed in him and helped me grow academically and as an individual. “Education is the driver that makes our communities stronger and creates a new generation of engaged leaders,” says Brito.

Alvaro has a Bachelor’s Degree in Cognitive Science with a minor in Education from the University of California, Irvine, a Master’s Degree in Teaching from the University of Southern California and a Master’s Degree in Educational Technology from California State University, Fullerton. Brito is also currently enrolled in a doctorate Educational Technology Program at Boise State University.

Brito took the lead to implement the curriculum for VILS Lab at Davis as well as many district makerspaces. He also is the lead coach for innovation for the District’s Teacher Induction Program (TIPs) for new teachers. His creativity, knowledge and leadership made events such as STEAMFest, Computer Science Expo and GearUp Kick off amazing experiences for students and the community. Alvaro has also brought many partnerships and opportunities to the district with the Will I Am foundation, Microsoft Minecraft and IBM with Artificial Intelligence Camp.

He has also taken outside interest seeking growth as a leader and presenter for Computer-Using Educators (CUE )and Teacher Induction Program for new teachers International Society for Technology in Education (ISTE) a judge for Cool projects as well as presenting at many other conferences. His quest to hone his craft is evident as he received accolades as a Raspberry Pi, Innovator, a Nearpod Educator, Google Certified and an Apple teacher.

“Alvaro is an innovator, leader, effective communicator and a team player. He takes great pride in his work and is always looking for new ways to increase his impact,” said Michele Dawson, CUSD Director of Educational Technology.

Congratulations, Alvaro! We are proud of and so greatly appreciative of you.