SLOUGHHOUSE, CA (MPG) - Vandy Passmore, a fourth- and fifth-grade teacher of Cosumnes River Elementary School, has been recognized as Teacher of the Month for January 2026 by ABC10, a designation announced in a televised segment that aired Dec. 31.

The honor is part of ABC10’s long-running Teacher of the Month program, presented in partnership with SchoolsFirst Federal Credit Union and Sacramento State College of Education, which highlights educators making a positive impact on students, schools and families throughout the Sacramento region.

Passmore, who has taught for 26 years, teaches math, reading, writing, social studies, science, physical education, visual and performing arts, and technology.

In the ABC10 segment, Passmore credited her students for sustaining her enthusiasm in the classroom.

“It’s the students: They keep my passion for teaching alive,” she said. “I just love my students.”

When asked what inspired her to become a teacher, Passmore said she wanted to make a lasting difference.

“I wanted to change lives, and I love seeing the ‘aha’ moment every day in their lives,” she said.

Principal Ashley Hannon praised Passmore’s humility and dedication during the segment.

“She is the type of person who is so humble,” Hannon said. “Everything that we all feel about her – to see it come to life and to see it told to her – is always such a great experience. She’s amazing. I’m so happy for her.”

Several of Passmore’s students were also featured in the broadcast, describing her as “incredible,” “an amazing person” and “very kind and sweet.”

As part of the recognition, Passmore received a plaque and a $1,000 award from SchoolsFirst Federal Credit Union. She is also eligible for ABC10’s Teacher of the Year honor, which includes a $5,000 prize to be announced in spring 2026.

Passmore said she was surprised and grateful for the recognition.

“Thank you so much,” she said. “I am so honored and blessed. I just have the best students this year, and I love my job.”

Beyond her classroom teaching, Passmore has played a leadership role at Cosumnes River Elementary, previously serving as chapter adviser for the National Elementary Honor Society, a national program that recognizes students in grades 4-6 for character, citizenship, leadership and service. During her tenure, she organized induction ceremonies honoring fifth- and sixth-grade students from 2017 through 2019.

Passmore also shared advice for families during the segment, emphasizing collaboration between home and school.

“Education is a shared partnership,” she said. “When families and teachers work together, students are best supported in becoming independent lifelong learners.”