The Down Syndrome Association of Santa Barbara County’s (DSASBC) Extraordinary Educator 2025 Award was presented to Tom Garrard Oct. 25 at the 14th Annual Hoedown at the Santa Barbara Carriage Museum.

Each year the DSASBC recognizes an Extraordinary Educator for their outstanding work with individuals with Down syndrome and others with special needs in our community,” the organization said.

Garrard began teaching at Lompoc High School in1999, he is the economics and independent study teacher and the Girls Golf coach.

He started in Special Olympics as a golf coach about 15 years ago, went to world games with Special Olympics as a unified partner in golf,  and brought home gold with his athlete partner for USA in 2015.

Garrard started Unified Sports at Lompoc Highlights School with Unified basketball in 2017-18, and took the Lompoc High Unified team to Nationals in Seattle. Where they medaled.

He started a Brave Unified Club on campus, creating a safe group for inclusion. Activities have included assemblies, school-wide events such as Easter egg hunts; and other unification activities.

The girls high school golf team participates in Special Olympics after their practice each week and donates their time because of Garrard’s influence.

“Tom loves to give service,” said his wife Lori, who also coaches golf for Special Olympics. “He does it simply because he is at his best when he’s helping others. He is honored to serve and give service but doesn’t serve others to be honored.”

“Tom is truly extraordinary, we had a wonderful time celebrating him and Down Syndrome Awareness month! Hundreds gathered for a great night enjoying dinner and dancing to Dusty Jugs,” DSASBC said.

Visit www.dsasbc.org to learn more of the DSASBC events.