Congratulations to CVUSD’s January 2026 Teacher of the Month: Lisa Ryder of Westlake High School!

Lisa Ryder is an advocate for all students. She focuses on students’ academic and social-emotional needs, while providing a supportive space where they feel comfortable in asking questions, taking risks and ultimately growing as scholars. A teacher at Westlake High for more than a quarter of a century, she currently teaches mathematics and has also taught Computer courses at the school. The Conejo Valley Unified School District and the Greater Conejo Valley Chamber of Commerce are proud to recognize Ms. Ryder as the January 2026 Teacher of the Month!

Ms. Ryder has a commitment to excellence in teaching and learning that is unmatched. She utilizes a wide range of strategies and techniques to meet the diverse needs of her students, incorporating direct instruction, inquiry-based learning, real-world applications, collaborative group work, technology integration and hands-on projects. Ms. Ryder also seeks out innovative strategies to connect with her students, making even the most complex mathematical concepts accessible and engaging. This includes designing new courses and learning experiences to meet the needs of students. 

She is also a team player, supporting fellow teachers through collaboration, coaching and resource sharing. This helps to foster a culture of professional growth and mutual respect within the math department and across the Westlake High School campus. She is a shining example of what it means to be a teacher who gives their all for their students, colleagues, and school.

Ms. Ryder ensures that Westlake High’s academic program remains forward-thinking and aligned with current standards by monitoring changes and trends closely. She has served in multiple leadership roles, including class level lead, club advisory, and department chair, advocating strongly for the math department while always keeping a broader schoolwide perspective in mind.

At the Wednesday, January 7th Westlake High School staff meeting, Ms. Ryder was surprised with the January 2026 Teacher of the Month recognition. She was presented with a commemorative plaque from the Greater Conejo Valley Chamber of Commerce, along with a $300 teacher grant from the Conejo Schools Foundation, and received congratulatory wishes from CVUSD’s leadership team and members of the Greater Conejo Valley Chamber of Commerce’s Education Committee.

Congratulations Ms. Ryder on this well-earned honor, which reflects the profound and lasting impact you have on the Warriors campus every day!