Matthew Waynee, CTE Animation & Video Production Teacher at LAUSD’s 32nd St. School USC Media Arts & Engineering Magnet, has been named the 2026 ACTE Teacher of the Year, National Winner. Selected from educators across the country, this honor recognizes his innovation, commitment to students, and leadership in advancing Career Technical Education.
With more than 20 years of experience in education and the entertainment industry, Waynee helped build LAUSD’s Video Production and Animation pathways from the ground up. He has secured nearly $3 million in grant funding, developed partnerships with major studios including DreamWorks, Nickelodeon, NBCUniversal, and Warner Bros., and authored the nation’s first registered Animation, Game Design & VFX Apprenticeship Program.
Waynee was recognized at ACTE’s CareerTech VISION 2025 Awards Gala in Nashville, highlighting the impact of LAUSD educators in preparing students for high-demand creative careers.
More info here!