In partnership with the Los Angeles Chargers, Mazda surprised four educators with donations and tickets to the Legends Homecoming Game, where they were recognized for their impact
IRVINE, Calif., Nov. 9, 2026 /PRNewswire/ -- Mazda North American Operations (MNAO) and its Southern California dealers have donated $40,000 to four local educators and their schools as part of Mazda's multiyear partnership with the Los Angeles Chargers.
The effort is part of Be Moved, Mazda's community engagement platform celebrating people inspired to uplift others. These educators do that in many ways, including helping students with diverse learning needs recognize their strengths by introducing new interests through creative programs and encouraging young people to take on leadership roles.
During surprise school visits, Chargers players joined Mazda to present each educator with a $10,000 donation and tickets to the Legends Homecoming Game. All four honorees were then recognized on the field at SoFi Stadium on November 8 in front of Chargers fans, extending the spirit of Homecoming to those who encourage young people to pursue their own goals.
The four teachers recognized support students in distinct ways, from fostering inclusive learning opportunities to creating opportunities for exploration and leadership. Honorees include:
- Sarah Taylor, 11th and 12th Grade Special Education Teacher, Da Vinci Communications: Taylor uses inclusive, project-based learning to help students with diverse learning needs get involved. She helps her students recognize their strengths and prepare for life after high school.
- Naomi Lara, Principal, Da Vinci RISE High: With more than 15 years in alternative education, Lara has established partnerships with local organizations that help students discover new interests through cooking, gardening, art and music.
- Lauren Shakstad, Elementary Physical Education Teacher, Wiseburn Unified School District: Shakstad teaches at all three of Wiseburn's elementary schools and helps students of all abilities build confidence and teamwork through physical education. She encourages students to find physical activities they can enjoy beyond school.
- Brandy Garcia, Eighth Grade Math Teacher, Wiseburn Middle School: As a math teacher and Associated Student Body advisor, Garcia encourages students to ask questions, recognize their progress and take responsibility. She also guides them in planning activities and representing their peers through student government.
"My mom taught me to value education, and I became a teacher to give students that same encouragement," said Brandy Garcia, eighth-grade math teacher at Wiseburn Middle School. "I want them to feel confident and know they have someone in their corner. With Mazda's gift, my students are helping choose what we add to our classroom, from kinesthetic math tools and learning screens that supports how they learn."
Moving Communities Forward Beyond the Classroom
Through its Be Moved platform, Mazda has contributed more than $65,000 to local Southern California schools over the past two years, helping expand resources and opportunities for students and teachers. The platform also supports Mazda dealers' efforts to strengthen the communities they serve.
To learn more about Mazda's community engagement efforts and the Be Moved platform, visit www.mazdausa.com/be-moved.
About Mazda North American Operations
Proudly founded in Hiroshima, Japan, Mazda has a history of sophisticated craftsmanship and innovation, and a purpose to enrich life-in-motion for those it serves. By putting humans at the center of everything it does, Mazda aspires to create uplifting experiences with our vehicles and people. Mazda North American Operations is headquartered in Irvine, California, and oversees the sales, marketing, parts and customer service support of Mazda vehicles in the United States, Canada, Mexico and Colombia through approximately 795 dealers. Operations in Canada are managed by Mazda Canada Inc. in Richmond Hill, Ontario; operations in Mexico are managed by Mazda Motor de Mexico in Mexico City; and operations in Colombia are managed by Mazda de Colombia in Bogota, Colombia. For more information on Mazda vehicles, including photography and B-roll, please visit the online Mazda media center at news.mazdausa.com.
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SOURCE Mazda North American Operations
