Zach Ambrose, who teaches modern civilization and coaches volleyball at Saugus High School, is a local 2008 Wal-Mart Teacher of the Year.

Manager Sheila Finerty of the Santa Clarita Valley West Wal-Mart store surprised Ambrose with the award at the school's October faculty meeting.

She praised Ambrose for his dedication and commitment and noted the impact he has on the community.
Ambrose received a certificate of appreciation, a $100 Wal-Mart gift card for classroom supplies and a $1,000 grant for Saugus High.

He is now eligible for Wal-Mart's 2008 California Teacher of the Year competition.

The state winner receives $10,000 from Wal-Mart for his or her school.

Cindy Pharis, an art teacher at Valencia High School was Wal-Mart's 2007 California Teacher of the Year.
The program has honored more than 30,000 teachers from across the country in the past 15 years.