Hannah Mangold, MAT ’24, has been named the 2026 Outstanding Rookie of the Year Teacher by the California Council for the Social Studies (CCSS). The award recognizes K-12 educators in their first five years of teaching who demonstrate exceptional promise and impact in social studies education. 

Hannah currently teaches 6th-grade Ancient History and beginning dance for grades 6-7 at Gladstone Middle School in the Azusa Unified School District.

Hannah credits her students for shaping her approach to social studies. By taking the time to understand their interests, she finds ways to connect ancient content to modern life, relating Mesopotamia to video games, Rome to Star Wars, or opening the floor for students to discuss current events on their own terms.

Hannah points to her preparation at Chapman’s Attallah College of Educational Studies as central to her early success.

“We were asked to look at our strengths and weaknesses in so many different ways and forced to find solutions,” she said. “This pushed me to find a way to always be effective and positive about teaching, which later translated to success when I got my own classroom.”

For current Attallah College students preparing to enter the classroom, Hannah gives the advice to push yourself to grow as an educator and a student.

“It is so important that you continue to allow yourself to grow as a learner even when you’re in the position of authority as the teacher. Confidence can truly be the most defining characteristic for you and your career.”