Congratulations to Natalie Taylor of Westlake Elementary: CVUSD’s 2026 Teacher of the Year!

Natalie Taylor is a true cornerstone of the Westlake Elementary School community who constantly opens doors of opportunity for every learner by recognizing and embracing their diverse needs and goals. Ms. Taylor is a Special Education-Mild/Moderate Teacher who designs thoughtfully constructed lessons that are individualized to meet students exactly where they are. She uses data and collaboration to guide students toward success while creating a safe, supportive space where they can laugh, feel encouraged, be challenged, and grow. The Conejo Valley Unified School District and the Greater Conejo Valley Chamber of Commerce are proud to recognize Ms. Taylor as our 2026 CVUSD Teacher of the Year!

She will now be entered as the CVUSD’s nominee for the Ventura County Teacher of the Year honor.

Ms. Taylor will be publicly recognized as the CVUSD’s 2026 Teacher of the Year at an upcoming Board of Education meeting. She will also be publicly celebrated at the Greater Conejo Valley Chamber of Commerce’s Journeys of Excellence Gala as a 2026 Honoree. Ms. Taylor is one of an inspiring group of individuals and organizations whose leadership, passion, and impact continue to shape our region, who will be recognized at this annual event.

The Greater Conejo Valley Chamber of Commerce has partnered monthly each year with the CVUSD since 1991 to honor one teacher who engages and supports all students in learning by demonstrating high professional standards, engaging with families and the community, and opening doors by recognizing the diverse needs of all learners. This school year eight CVUSD teachers from across our district were recognized with the Teacher of the Month honor, which entered them as a nominee for the 2025-2026 Greater Conejo Valley Chamber of Commerce and CVUSD Teacher of the Year. Ms. Taylor was previously recognized as CVUSD’s December 2025 Teacher of the Month.

More About Ms. Taylor:
Ms. Taylor works hard to achieve meaningful two-way communication and connections with the families of her students through straightforward and consistent feedback to families that is not only informative but also supportive. This communication empowers families to be strong partners in their child’s educational journey, supporting their overall success.

She also brings a deep well of expertise and wisdom to every interaction and her insight, preparation, and unwavering commitment to excellence makes her a leader among peers, and a trusted voice of advice in every conversation.

She engages with empathy, respect, and transparency and has a presence that is reassuring, encouraging, and calming to students, families, and staff.

Ms. Taylor wears many hats at Westlake with ease and grace, including: expert in special education, tech guru, team collaborator, emotional support (to staff and students alike), cheerleader, advocate, and friend.

The CVUSD and the Greater Conejo Valley Chamber of Commerce are proud to celebrate Ms. Taylor as the CVUSD 2026 Teacher of the Year!