.png)
On June 5, 2025, the EastLake Educational Foundation (EEF) presented the 2025 Dr. Susan Mahler Heart of Service Award to longtime Olympic View Elementary kindergarten teacher Sally Smith.
The Dr. Susan Mahler Heart of Service Award was established by EEF in 2023 in acknowledgment of Dr. Susan Mahler, the first principal of Olympic View Elementary and one of the founding board directors of EEF. The award is given to someone who has given of themselves for an extended time to help children succeed, shared their time and talents to advance public education, and demonstrated their love and commitment to the community.
Ms. Smith has served the Chula Vista Elementary School District (CVESD) for three decades, impacting generations of students through her compassionate teaching and community involvement. Known for creating a nurturing classroom environment, she is celebrated for making each day an exciting learning experience. Her belief that all students can succeed with the right support is reflected in her teaching, where she builds trust with every child and instills a love of learning.
“I have had the privilege of working with Sally for over 20 years. She is such an amazing educator who brings light and positive energy to not only her students but everyone around her,” shares Principal of Olympic View Elementary Lisa Lines.
In addition to her teaching, Ms. Smith has been a dedicated volunteer for EEF, supporting fundraisers and initiatives that benefit students across the EastLake community. She regularly collaborates with local businesses and nonprofits to enrich and expand opportunities for students.
“Sally has shaped young minds with patience, passion, and purpose,” said Janet Francis, Executive Director of EEF. “This award is not just a recognition of her excellence in teaching, it’s a tribute to the generations of lives she has touched, both in the classroom and throughout the community.”
CVESD congratulates Ms. Smith on this well-deserved recognition and extends its gratitude to the EastLake Educational Foundation for its continued support of students, educators, and schools across the EastLake community.