San Jose, CA, September 8, 2023 -  The San Francisco 49ers honored a Moreland School District school principal on the field at Levi’s Stadium at a recent game. George C. Payne Elementary School Principal Katie Berg was recognized at the August 25 pre-season game against the LA Chargers. The San Jose principal is one of ten educators to receive the 2023 Dr. Harry Edwards “Follow Your Bliss Award” through the San Francisco 49ers Foundation and the Micron Foundation. The prize included a $2,000 stipend for in-classroom materials and resources.

Payne Kindergarten Teacher Sheighlin MacAskill nominated Mrs. Berg, and was not only able to join her at the game, but to also get a group picture with 49ers mascot, Sourdough Sam. Mrs. Berg shared one of the highlights was that following the game, a young student excitedly came up to her at school to share that he proudly saw his principal on the field when he was in the stands at Levi’s Stadium.

Katie and the other award winners were selected for their superlative achievement in education and leading future generations with purpose, passion, dedication and love. 

“Payne Elementary and Principal Katie Berg are shining examples of how we educate and empower the whole child at Moreland School District,” shared Superintendent Dr. Clover Codd. “We are thrilled to see our educators and schools recognized for their dedication and commitment to students.”

The Follow Your Bliss Award program was created in 2017 to honor educators across the San Francisco Bay Area.