A Dennis Earl Elementary third grade teacher is one step closer to becoming the 2013 Teacher of the Year.

In May, Michelle Cardoso was named  the 2013 Stanislaus County Teacher of the Year for the K-3 grade division. She will now advance to the next level of the Teacher of the Year program, where she will have the opportunity to represent Earl Elementary on a state level.

“I’m still in shock,” said Cardoso. “I’m humbled to be selected again and represent Stanislaus County this year."

Representatives of major educational and parent organizations and veteran teachers of the year make the final selections in the state level competition. If she wins, she proceeds to a national level program.

“It’s going to be quite a lengthy process from here on out,” said Cardoso. “The next step is going to be challenging, but I’m looking forward to it. It will reevaluate who I am as a educator.”

For Cardoso, the best thing about being an educator is coming to work excited to teach every day. She has no plans to take a break this summer, as she will bring her innovative teaching methods to summer school.

 “Every year I get 20 little family members and it continues to grow," said Cardoso. "In my 20 years of teaching, I’ve had 400 kids and hundreds of memories built. We create magic in the classroom. It is truly the best job ever.”