Lynelene Canete: 'Teaching has always been my calling'
Lynelene (Lyne) Canete
Special Day Classes and Resource Specialist Programs Teacher
Seaside High School
Seaside High School is home to a passionate and diverse community of educators who are deeply committed to student success.
Among them is Lynelene Canete, a special education teacher who has brought her expertise and enthusiasm to the school through MPUSD’s international cultural exchange program. Her journey to Seaside is both inspiring and a testament to her unwavering dedication to education.
Lynelene began her teaching career in the Philippines during the pandemic. Before stepping into the classroom, she worked in human resources for seven years. However, with a background in education, she saw an opportunity to pursue her passion for teaching when her company closed.
“Teaching has always been my calling,” Lynelene shared. “Seeing students reach their potential, even through a slow process, is what inspires me.”
After teaching for three years in the Philippines, Lynelene learned about the J-1 cultural exchange program. Intrigued by the opportunity to grow professionally and experience a different educational system, she applied and was accepted.
In August 2024, she joined the Seaside High School family, bringing with her a commitment to fostering individualized support and inspiring her students.
Lynelene’s work focuses on supporting students in Special Day Classes (SDC) and Resource Specialist Programs (RSP). Her students benefit from her personalized approach, as she tailors lessons to meet their unique needs.
“I want to prove to my students that they are not behind,” she explained. “They just need a little more time and support to thrive.”
In her classroom, Lynelene fosters a supportive and positive environment, emphasizing high academic expectations and encouraging collaboration.
“I want my students to develop open-mindedness, positive behavior, and confidence in their abilities,” she said. “It warms my heart to see them working hard and realizing their potential.”
One of the aspects that drew Lynelene to the Monterey Peninsula Unified School District was our commitment to professional development and collaboration. In her first four months, she has already participated in numerous professional development sessions and experienced the benefits of working with a collaborative team.
“My colleagues have been incredibly supportive,” Lynelene shared. “We share resources, strategies, and experiences, which helps me grow as a teacher.”
Beyond her classroom, Lynelene finds inspiration in Seaside’s welcoming community. From her supportive principal to colleagues who generously share materials and advice, she feels a strong sense of belonging.
“This environment inspires me to give my best to my students and take what I’ve learned back to my home country,” she said.
Lynelene’s ultimate goal is to help her students graduate and pursue their dreams.
“I want them to realize their potential and achieve their goals, whether it’s earning a diploma or pursuing college,” she said.
Her dedication to her students’ success, combined with her passion for teaching, makes her an invaluable part of the Seaside High School community.
As Lynelene continues her journey, she remains committed to creating a positive and supportive environment for her students while embracing the professional growth opportunities at Seaside High School. Her story is a powerful reminder of the transformative impact that dedicated educators have on their students and communities.