SHP's Riaz Abdulla Receives Prestigious UChicago Educator Award

Celebrating Impactful Teaching: Riaz Abdulla's Recognition

On December 4, 2025, Riaz Abdulla, a dedicated physics teacher at Sacred Heart Preparatory (SHP) in Atherton, California, received the prestigious 2025 University of Chicago (UChicago) Outstanding Educator Award. This honor is presented to teachers who have made a radical difference in their students' academic journeys, underscoring the profound influence that educators can have on the lives of their students.

Abdulla was nominated for this award by Arhaan Gupta-Rastogi, an SHP alumnus who is now pursuing a degree in Molecular Engineering at the University of Chicago. Gupta-Rastogi's nomination speaks volumes about Abdulla's commitment and effectiveness as an educator. Reflecting on his time in Abdulla's Advanced Placement (AP) Physics class, he described it as "transformative and joyful," highlighting the teacher's ability to make complex material accessible and engaging.

"[Abdulla] made physics an enjoyable class, from his humor to the energy and enthusiasm he brought to the classroom. His problem-solving methods are tools I still use in college today," Gupta-Rastogi shared, encapsulating the essence of what makes Abdulla a remarkable teacher. His distinct approach combines rigorous academics with a focus on fostering personal connections with his students, allowing each individual to flourish according to their unique strengths and interests.

Upon receiving the nomination, Abdulla expressed surprise, stating, "My immediate reaction was, 'Who, me?' But then I sat with it and realized—what a gift it is to teach students like Arhaan. And what a blessing to know I played even a small part in their journey." His philosophy centers around the mission of educating the whole child, embracing the idea that each student possesses an inherent curiosity about the world, which teachers must cultivate with care and inspiration.

Now in his sixth year at Sacred Heart and boasting 29 years of teaching experience, Abdulla is driven by a desire to challenge students to view themselves differently, particularly those who may not see themselves as strong in STEM subjects. "I love the challenge of showing a student—especially one who doesn't think they're a 'STEM kid'—that physics is something they can do," he asserted. His commitment to nurturing curiosity has empowered countless students to pursue scientific interests that may have previously seemed daunting.

Abdulla emphasized that the recognition he received is reflective of a collective effort at Sacred Heart Prep. "I feel like I'm receiving this on behalf of SHP," he mentioned. "This is such a special place to teach. Our students are a gift, and every one of my colleagues deserves recognition like this." His acknowledgment of the collaborative spirit at SHP serves as a reminder that teaching is a team effort, with each member contributing to the vital mission of educating the next generation.

Sacred Heart Schools, Atherton, a venerable institution founded in 1898, serves students from preschool through twelfth grade on a lush 63-acre campus. With a diverse community of 1,185 students, SHP focuses on creating lifelong learners who are well-equipped to tackle the challenges of the future. The Outstanding Educator Award bestowed upon Abdulla reinforces the importance of educators who dedicate themselves fully to their calling, ultimately shaping the minds and futures of countless students.

In a world where quality education can significantly impact society, celebrating outstanding teachers like Riaz Abdulla is essential. Their dedication inspires students to discover and pursue their passions, fostering a love for learning that extends beyond the classroom. As Abdulla continues to make strides in his teaching career, his example serves as a beacon for educators everywhere, reminding us all of the profound power of teaching and mentorship.