2025 Simplot Inspirational Teacher of the Year Finalist Maribel Mendez

Join us in celebrating an outstanding educator!

We’re proud to announce that Maribel Mendez, Spanish teacher at Century School, has been named a finalist for the Simplot Inspirational Teacher of the Year!

This year, the Simplot Education Council received an incredible 2,617 nominations recognizing 402 exceptional teachers across Pocatello/Chubbuck School District 25. Finalists will be spotlighted daily through Thursday, May 15, 2025.

On Friday, May 16, 2025, three Simplot Inspirational Teacher Awards will be announced—honoring one exceptional teacher each from the elementary, middle, and high school levels. Each category features five finalists, all of whom will receive a $100 award, with the top recipient in each group earning a $500 prize from the Council.

Congratulations to Ms. Mendez on this well-deserved recognition!

“Ms. Mendez, or as her students know her, Maestra Mendez, is a caring, loving, funny, amazing teacher. When she teaches, it doesn’t feel like we are learning, it feels as if you are doing duo lingo in real life. She puts a special touch on her criteria that makes you feel like you are in a Spanish speaking country. Ms. Mendez is also amazing out of the classroom. She is always a number one fan of her students and she always brings school pride.” Olivia W.

Ms. Mendez is a great teacher who is always welcoming towards everyone. She always has a smile on her face and makes you feel like she really wants you in her class. “When I would struggle with something in Spanish class, she would always take the time to sit with me to make sure I understood. I love how she engages with the entire class and makes sure everyone has fun. She creates games that actually make us want to learn and continue to learn. I really enjoy being in her class.” Gabriella A.