"Kim Burlinson is one of those very, very special people who is a joy to work with," McCulloch said. "She was a natural the moment she walked into the classroom."

Burlinson teaches general science, advanced science research and biology classes. McCulloch spoke to the board members about how, when a teacher like Burlinson believes in something, she gives it her all. Burlinson volunteers with the Individualized Education Program, is currently working to earn her master's degree in teacher leadership as well as her administrative credential, and also designed and maintains the "Alive ... and Loving Life" website.

"When I first started teaching, I wasn't sure if it was for me," Burlinson told board members during her acceptance speech.

But after coming to Los Gatos High School, Burlinson said two teacher mentors were always available to individually assist her with any problems that arose. Burlinson said she began to feel connected to a teacher group, a school and a community.

"Now I feel like this is the only job I would ever want to do," she said.

During the principal report section of the board meeting, Saratoga High School Principal Kevin Skelly said average SAT scores have gone up from 1,230 to 1,272. He said discussion will be taking place on campus about whether the school's curriculum is too difficult, since the national SAT score average is about 1,000. Skelly said he wants to look at how to better serve the middle, or average, student.

McCulloch announced that Los Gatos High School's new bleachers have arrived for the high school gym, just in time for Back to School Night, which was held Sept. 18.