CVESD Educator Dr. Hezekiah Herrera Receives 2026 CTA Human Rights Award

The Chula Vista Elementary School District proudly celebrates Sonia Sotomayor Elementary School Special Day Class teacher Hezekiah Herrera, Ed.D., for receiving the 2026 Students with Exceptional Needs Human Rights Award from the California Teachers Association (CTA).

The award was presented on March 14, 2026, at the CTA Equity and Human Rights Conference in Costa Mesa, recognizing educators who go beyond the classroom to advocate for and dismantle the systemic barriers faced by students with disabilities.

As a Special Day Class teacher and a father of children with disabilities, Dr. Herrera’s work is rooted in the belief that inclusion is a fundamental human right. His advocacy focuses on ensuring that students with extensive support needs have meaningful access to learning, school experiences, and opportunities for independence.

Dr. Herrera was recognized by the CTA for several impactful initiatives that support students with exceptional needs. He developed a suite of digital tools and a specialized support plan generator that help remove physical and communication barriers that can prevent students with complex needs from participating fully in field trips and school activities. In addition, he has authored inclusive children’s literature that ensures students with significant disabilities see themselves reflected as heroes and protagonists in the stories they read.

Beyond the classroom, Dr. Herrera contributes his expertise and advocacy through service on the Chula Vista Educators Executive Board and the CTA State Council of Education’s Special Education Committee, where he champions the staffing, resources, and policies needed to support students with disabilities. He also works closely with educators and paraprofessionals to model proactive collaboration and ensure consistent, high-quality support for students with the most significant needs.

The Chula Vista Elementary School District congratulates Dr. Herrera on this well-deserved honor and thanks him for his continued dedication to expanding opportunities and access for students with exceptional needs.

About the CTA Human Rights Awards: The California Teachers Association (CTA) Human Rights Awards are presented annually to recognize CTA members and chapters who demonstrate outstanding commitment to advancing human and civil rights in public education. Representing more than 300,000 educators across California, CTA uses these awards to highlight individuals whose work promotes equity, access, and opportunity for students and school communities.

Students with Exceptional Needs Human Rights Award: The Students with Exceptional Needs Human Rights Award recognizes an educator who has made significant contributions to advancing equitable opportunities and protections for students with disabilities. Recipients are honored for their leadership in promoting inclusive educational practices, advocating for equitable access to learning, and developing programs or supports that help students with disabilities succeed in school and beyond.