This spring, two alumni of The Master’s University were recognized with teacher of the year awards in the Santa Clarita Valley.

Nicholas Patey (’06), a math teacher at Golden Valley High School, was honored as the 2025/26 Hart District Teacher of the Year. Patey attends Grace Baptist Church, where he serves in the high school ministry and leads a fellowship group.

“My time at TMU helped me really start trying to live my life as a living sacrifice. And I think it’s a focus on truth that helps me in the confusing times that we live,” Patey said. “When I’m in the classroom, how I talk and what I choose to talk about is all influenced by my core values and beliefs, which are shaped by the Bible.”

This fall, Patey will be honored at the Annual Los Angeles County Teacher of the Year Awards banquet, representing the William S. Hart Union High School District at the Teacher of the Year competition.

Additionally, Eugene Kim (’18), a music teacher at Castaic High School, was named the Castaic High Teacher of the Year. Kim attends Oak Hill Bible Church and serves in the music and children’s ministries.

“Colossians 3:23-24 reminds me to always work as hard as I can with excellence for Christ,” Kim said. “I’m thankful to be able to make a difference in the lives of my students every day and model Christ’s love to those around me.”

See here for more information on how TMU’s alumni are making an impact as teachers in the Santa Clarita Valley.

If you are interested in learning more about TMU’s liberal studies degree, see here.