After graduating from Cal in 1997, we took a few weeks off and traveled cross-country to DC and NYC in his grey 1990 2-door Toyota Camry. I over-packed, and somehow he made it work by storing some of his stuff in my dad’s garage. He was just that kind of guy.

He was going to work at an education think tank in DC , and I was going to go do the Coro fellowship in NYC. I remember that we got pulled over in West Texas, about 200 miles outside of San Antonio, on I-10 by a Ranger with dark sunglasses and a big hat. We were scared.

A Mexican and an Asian, with Cali plates, speeding through Texas. Easily, we were going  over 100 miles an hour, where all we could see for miles were tumbleweeds and cattle. The cop said, “You boys ain't from around these parts is you.”  He was straight out of a Hollywood casting calling.  
Allen said, "No sir, we are moving to the East Coast for work." We ended up getting a speeding ticket. I tried to intervene but we got a speeding ticket anyway.

I carried around an inflatable "spider man" and took pictures with it at every landmark we could find. Allen thought it was silly but I thought it was fun. He went along with my shenanigans and we got some good pics in New Mexico, New Orleans, Hotlanta, Alabama, the Carolinas and finally in  DC. More than that, we go to see several civil rights locations and monuments including Ebenezer Baptist Church and the Edumnd Pettus Bridge connecting Selma to Montgomery. We contemplated our history as we were trying to figure out our future.  What would we do with privilege as college grads?

We stayed in motels where we wouldn't dare to take off our socks off for fear of what critters or residue would contaminate our feet. We split a $40 Motel 6 many nights. 

Those were the good old days. 

Allen was a caring soul and made a difference in the world by teaching. I will miss my friend.  

Although we didn't know each other at Cal, Allen and I met in the DC area over 20 years ago because I needed a ride to an Asian American LEAD banquet.  We soon realized we knew some people in common, such as his then girlfriend (and later wife). During my fun formative years in the area, Allen was always there at community events, including the OCA- Young Professionals activities. I remember him always volunteering and helping at different events, taking part in the basketball tournament,  and being part of our gang of friends going on a ski trip together in 1999. Allen was a fun, kind and friendly person, and I see that he continued to achieve in life after our DC days.  What a great loss his passing is to not only his family, but also all the communities he belonged to. Condolences and blessings to the Teng family.

Dear Teng Family, 

I was devastated when a former colleague told me of Allen's passing. I knew him when he was in his early twenties, right out of college.  Before he went into education, he worked for a communication and policy organization in Washington, DC. and I was his supervisor. It was a pleasure to work with him. He was smart. hardworking and fun.  Even then,  he was interested in helping young people reach their potential and worked on projects that focused on at-risk youth.  It sounds as though he grew into a man who was respected and loved by many, and I am sorry for your loss.  

Allen, what a light and joy you were. Between every period , Standing in front of our class doors, greeting students ...you always made me laugh. At staff meetings, in passing to the copy machine, at the SMUSD annual teacher breakfast, you were always a light, thank you, thank you. The world has lost a truly special
Human being. Condelnces to your family, they will eternally be in my thoughts. C. 

I worked with Allen at National University. With my colleague, Sean McCarthy, we supported him through his work in becoming a National Board Certified Teacher - one of many of his amazing accomplishments! Both Sean and I feel that he was just such an amazing, intelligent, passionate, caring teacher as well as just a very, very nice person. Allen and I have stayed in touch since that time as I have followed his professional contributions. 

I am very saddened to hear of the passing of Allen Teng. We were hired the same year at Will Rogers Middle School in Lawndale in 2001, and we ended up being on the same team of teachers. Allen was an extremely dedicated and skilled teacher. He was great to work with and cared passionately for students and developing his students' English skills. He was also a decent basketball player (although others may have a different evaluation). He was full of life, loved his job, and loved kids. I wish his family and friends much love. My heart hurts. This world lost a great one.  -- Eugene Nah

I am so grateful Allen came into my life, as my assistant principal who turned into my friend. Allen and I both started working together at Potter Jr High in Fallbrook- he as a new assistant principal and me as the new school counselor. Our first year was incredibly intense based on the high number of students that far outnumbered us, coupled with our steep learning curve. However, we worked like crazy, built a solid foundation, and talked fondly about that first year because of how much we learned and bonded. While we were both grateful another counselor and AP were hired, there was definitely a synergistic magic with our small but mighty year one team. 

Allen and I collaborated together on a variety of projects including student forums to get a better understanding of student perspectives, analysis of social/emotional and discipline data, Safe School Ambassadors, AVID... And despite all the work Allen was great at checking in with me personally (although perhaps it was also because he was interested in hearing my latest crazy dating story!). He even guest presented in a school counseling graduate course I taught about how school counselors and administrators work together effectively. 

As our Fallbrook lives parted, Allen and I stayed in touch, supporting one another’s random educational questions and getting together for periodic happy hours. I always loved reminiscing with him and swapping current stories and challenges in our new educational roles. His phenomenal advocacy for students, passion to improve education, and love of his family was always so evident. 

Sending so much love to Chellyn and their kids. Allen would always talk about you all, sharing stories about your trips and the kids’ involvements. 

Allen was my administrator in the short time that I lived in San Diego. He was so motivating and kind during a time in my life that I needed it. I’m so happy to have known him. The world needs more people like Allen. My condolences to his family.

Mr. Teng was respectful and polite teacher. He was also well respected . He would always make the class fun and cheerful.  Also, he would always be supportive towards his student and always let us know to never give up. I will always remember Mr. Teng as a happy and supportive teacher. My deepest condolences to the family of Mr. Teng   
May he Rest In Peace. 
 

He will be missed. Love you brother. Go Bears!

To the Teng Family,

I want you all to know how much Mr. Teng meant to all of us who had the privilege of calling him our teacher. He was my 8th grade English teacher at  Woodland Park Middle School from 2005-2006. His sense of humor, radiant personality, and sarcastic way of being with all of us quickly made him one of, if not, the most beloved teacher on campus. 
On our very first day of class he had us all write an essay that practically lasted the whole period. He handed out a printout and provided us with verbal instructions on what he expected the body of the text to include. I, along with most of the class, quickly got started on our essay. I remember thinking how lame it was that we had to write an essay right off the bat on our first day of class. The writing eventually seized towards the end of the class. He collected the essays, and all of us who had written that essay quickly got it back with an F. 
The printout he provided us had directions on it stating not to write anything. This was a lesson on always reading the printed directions provided to us before beginning our work.  All of those who did not write an essay received their first A of the semester. I started that semester off with an F, ended proudly with an A, and never once forgot his lessons.

He was loved by all of those who knew him and will never be forgotten. 


Not having the words to express how someone who's been in your life so long and integral to oneself seems monumental, for me, of course if it was Allen it would have been short succinct and honest.
So I'll try to emulate him, I proud of the man I've called a lifelong friend who's reach was greater than one could see. I will miss you and your spirit will live on in all that you have touched.

I had a chance to work with Allen for a year in San Diego.  He was a bright light.  I feel lucky to have known him.  I'm so sorry for your loss.  My heart is with you.

Dear Teng family,
I am so incredibly sorry for your loss.  Allen and I worked together as vice principals in Fallbrook and then as principals in San Diego.  Being new in a big school district was scary, but knowing Allen was just a phone call away provided me with so much assurance.   Allen was always there to support me, offer advice, or just listen.  No matter how busy he was he always found time to answer my texts or emails.  I will miss his kindness, thoughtfulness, positive attitude and warm smile.  Allen inspired me to be a better administrator.  He was devoted to helping all of his students be successful.  I will do my best each day to continue to carry the torch for Allen and be as devoted to my students as Allen was to his.  I feel fortunate to have called Allen a friend.  He will be terribly missed.  

I knew Allen in Fallbrook. We were administrators together. I was always impressed with his intelligence, humility and dignity. May God bless his family, friends and all those he touched in his professional community. 

I've been staring at the engraved baseball bat that Allen gave me for being one of his groomsmen for a long time trying to think of what to say.  It reminds me of how we met and how we became friends in junior high, hanging out at baseball card shop with Casey Cummins, talking sports and joking around.  We spent a lot of time in high school and on breaks from college going to Padres games, talking more sports, and joking around more.  Since I never moved back to San Diego after college we grew apart over time but whenever we did talk or saw each other it was just like being back in high school.  

 I'm sure I'm not the only person who felt this way with Allen, that's what made him such a great friend, husband, father, and teacher.  I remember there was a 6 month period where for some reason Allens phone would randomly pocket dial me in the middle of him teaching class.  We never figured out how it was happening but every time it did I would listen for a few minutes, fascinated that he was teaching these kids, helping to mold their future, and having no doubt that he was one of the best at it.  

I'll miss you my friend, I can't believe you're gone and hopefully wherever you are now you can find Tony Gwynn and get some hitting lessons.  

Allen was a kind man who had the highest aspirations for Mann Middle School. I will forever be grateful for his support of me both professionally and being able to acquire my service dog. I will miss his wonderful smile.
Susan and Quincy

Allen, I don't even know where to begin...I feel as though I lost a piece of me when I received news of your passing onto the After Life.  I'll always remember our colorful conversations and unbridled laughter, especially the best of times we shared with Rich.  Now I'm sure you're both enjoying each other's company and I'm grateful for that much, a bit of solace in such onerous times.

And to your wonderful family, I wish you all God's grace and mercy...peace be with you --- 
Mark 11:22  

Dear Teng family,

Please accept my deepest condolences for such a huge loss. It is so hard to believe that Alan is no more among us. Alan was my classmate between years of 2010-2014. He was such a nice and caring person.  
I wish strength for your family during this hard time and may his soul Rest In Peace. 
Farid 

Dear Teng family 
I am so sorry to hear of Mr. Teng’s passing.  He was our daughter ‘s teacher at Woodland Park Middle school in San Marcos.  He had such a huge impact on her...she became a teacher as well! She often spoke of him and how he inspired her.  We ran into him in Boston!! We were vacationing and our daughter couldn’t believe Mr. Teng was near Fenway Park too! Highlight of her trip to see him! 
Mr Teng touched so many lives, and I know his kindness will live on.  

Dr. Teng, or Allen as I usually called him, I had known since I started working for the district. He always encouraged me, and was always there to talk. He was dedicated to his school, the children that learn there, and the community that surrounds it. I saw him fight for this community first-hand and such a person will be missed.  

I will miss his interesting sense of humor. He kept a running joke with me for well over a year and I was never mad or annoyed that he did. I'll miss having to text him on a Saturday to remind him to put a family engagement event on his weekly address and miss teasing him about food at community events.   Mostly, I will miss our talks... I'll miss my friend.

My condolences to his family and friends.

Dear Friends and Family of Mr. Teng,
 He was my principal at Mann Middle we weren't really close, but I knew who he was and he knew who  I was. At the end of the day, he was my principal.  I just want to say God bless to his famly and friends.






                                                                                                                                                                          Sincerly,
                                                                                                                                                                           Shamiah B.





                                                                                                                                                                                  

It is with a heavy heart that I write this note.  I have known Allen for a few years now as professional colleagues working closely together in our school communities.  Allen was always a man who had a smile, and a kind word to say about everyone he met.  Allen was a tireless worker who really cared about his kids and his school.  When Allen would come over to visit the 5th grade students at my school he always left a lasting impression with our students.  Allen was immediately liked by all who met him...we will all miss him!

Dear Teng Family - I am so sorry to hear of Allen's passing. I grew up with him in Encinitas and went to school with him from kindergarten through high school. He was such a kind person with a contagious smile. You will be in my thoughts, and I wish you peace and comfort during this sad time. 

My sincerest condolences to Allen’s family. 

I had the pleasure of working for Allen last year at Mann Middle. Allen was always supportive, and understanding, and clearly dedicated to helping Mann become the school its students deserved. I appreciate the guidance and support he offered me as I transitioned from teaching elementary to middle school. He will be missed greatly. My heart goes out to his friends and family.  Take comfort in knowing that he was respected and admired for the dedication he showed to Mann, and its students.

Allen was a good man. We met at UC Berkeley in the Mass Communications major. His friendship always came with kindness and a positive sense of humor. If society defined heroism the way I believe it should, then children would be reading comic books about him and dreaming of changing the world in the same way he did, with thoughtful decency, dedication to knowledge, and belief in others.

I will never forget sitting outside on the steps of Wheeler Hall, talking about an amazing UC Berkeley student named Chellyn.
I will never forget that he introduced me to Project Pipeline, which led me into a profession that has meant so much in my life - teaching.
I will never forget visits with him, and watching his dedication as a family man.
I will never forget his gentle smile, the bob of his head, and his ability to listen.
I am so grateful to have known him.
 

Allen was a phenomenal human being who cared greatly for his school community, teachers, staff and students. In his career as a principal he was put in a difficult situation and worked so hard to make his school a better place for students.  Allen carried himself with grace, kindness and humility at all times - no matter what the situation was. He always offered a kind hello and gentle demeanor in his approach to others. While I only knew him for a short time, he was such a credit to our profession as a principal.  His parents, wife and children should be so very proud of the human being he was and the example he led in the service to children. May god bless his family, most of all his wife and children. God has called and the legacy he leaves is strong. My prayers for you all as you deal with your grief and a life without this beautiful human being.  Kristie Joiner, fellow Principal 

Allen was one of the first friends I made while in Washington, DC in the late '90s. We bonded as being from California and while serving on the advisory board for the Conference in Asian Pacific American Leadership.  When we both returned to our respective  parts of CA, we continued to keep in touch.  He was kind, thoughtful, selfless and dedicated to improving the lives of others. He's accomplished that and more.  My condolences to Chellyn, the kids and everyone who's been fortunate to know Allen.

Dear Teng Family,
Allen was a kind man who loved life.  When Allen was at Potter we would often talk about our travel adventures.  He loved talking about his family, with great love and pride!  Hold your memories close in your heart!  Allen made this world a better place!  He will be so missed!  Prayers to his family!

Dear Chellyn, I write with sadness for you and your family.  I am so sorry to learn about your husband's passing.  You are in my prayers in this difficult time of your life.  
My deepest condolences.
Doris  Alvarez

It’s been a week now and it still hasn’t completely set in. I walk around with a stumble in my step like there’s a piece of me missing. Allen Teng has been my best friend for 35 years, since we were in 3rd grade at Ocean Knoll. He’s been a part of my family ever since. We took the bus to school together with my little brother, walked home in junior high and high school, hung out at each other’s houses, ate hot pot with his mom, talked cars with his dad, played video games and basketball in my backyard with my brothers. My family and I took him to the beach and museums and even to the fair (where he got separated from us and had to call his parents to pick him up before the age of cell phones. Sorry about that Al My Pal. I still feel bad after all these years.). After high school we didn’t see each other much. He went to school at UC Berkeley and I stayed in San Diego and went to UCSD. I visited him in Berkeley once and saw him and his mom in the summer at the Del Mar Racetrack where I worked. I met his lovely future wife Chellyn and was happy when they decided to live back in San Diego. I was a groomsman  in their wedding and watched them grow a beautiful family. I was there at the baby showers, birthdays and holiday parties. To his kids I’m known as Uncle Gregg. I will miss coming over to one of Allen’s delicious home cooked meals and spending time with his family in happier days. When I turn on the radio, every other song is from a concert we saw together. He texted me a week or so before he died to get my new address so he could send me the family Christmas card. I told him we should get together over the holidays. He said “Yeah I’d like that.” Never thought that would be the last time I would speak to him. I’m so proud of Allen and all that he achieved, the lives he touched and the people he inspired in his short 44 years on Earth. It’s so fitting that he became a principal because he was such a great pal. One I will never forget. My heart goes out to his family

Allen aways wanted the best for others. He wanted the students who didn't care to realize their own potential that there was hope.  He wanted the teachers who were set in their ways to adopt new and innovative ways of teaching, with compassion and continual improvement. He had high expectations for everyone around him and spent countless extra hours of his own time to work towards his vision of greatness for a school that most others would write off and maintain the status quo. He was always visible on campus, talking with students and teachers and involved in staff-student basketball games and other on and off campus activities. In an institution that was resistant to change, he had the courage to see a path to excellence, inspiring others, and pushing beyond the naysayers. May his memory of hard work and good intentions always be remembered.

Allen’s courageous smile and you’re kindness with students and staff at potter will never forgotten  prayers and hugs to your family during this difficult time rip 💜forever in our hearts💜💜💜

Allen was an all around great guy! I was blessed to work with him in Fallbrook. He was an amazing educator and leader. He will be missed.

This man fought for me more than anyone will know.  The dedication he had for Mann Middle School & the City Heights community was incomparable.  I’ll miss the way he always greeted me with a calm but long “Ms. Janayyy”. Dr. Teng  will definitely be missed. 

0ur family is deeply saddened by the loss of Principal Allen Teng.
    My thoughts & prayers are with the family during this difficult time of loss. 
  Allen..your name will always mention with love..You are indeed a truly great man ...Miss your smile & hugs...
 

Allen ... your beautiful smile, calm and positive nature will be missed.  You made Potter Jr High a better place.  Prayers and hugs to you family.


Dr. Allen Teng was a colleague and friend. A deep thinker, an instructional leader, a man who spoke of his family with pride. A man who wanted to make a difference in the lives of students.  I will truly miss him and am heartbroken at the loss. My thoughts go to the family. 


You have touched our hearts with your strength, compassion and leadership.
Always know you have left a little of you within us which will be for all eternity.
My thoughts and prayers go out to your family and loved ones.


I knew Allen as a dad of a daughter on our softball teams.  It speaks to his humility that he never mentioned he was a PhD or Principal.  I found him to be quiet, kind, thoughtful, and a devoted and loving dad.  He was always willing to help at practices.  I will remember his big smile at the end of the season when his daughter made a couple of big plays at 3rd base.  I will miss seeing him with his glove on the field. 

I truly enjoyed working with Allen.  He was such a professional...always prepared, always committed to his students. 

Dr. Allen Teng was a great educator and a loyal friend.He worked tirelessly to make sure that Mann middle school students and community had a school to be proud of. His loss is devastating. I am proud to have worked for Dr. Teng but I’m extremely grateful to have become friends with Allen.

Allen Teng is a great soul who was dedicated to the advancement of all students, especially those on the edges of society! He made me a better educator, I will continue to carry his torch.

I was so shocked to hear of Mr. Teng's unfortunate death.  He was so dedicated to improving education for the students at Mann and worked tirelessly to do so.  This is a huge loss to the community.

Dr. Teng inspired me to be the best teacher I could be for my students. I will never forget his words of encouragement.

Worked with Allen when he first arrived at Mann. His drive and passion for educating our youth was contagious. RIP Allen.

I was an employee of MR Teng he was very spirited and kind and always wanting his school to be the best. He had inspiration and high standards he will be missed . He was an amazing individual.

OBITUARY

Allen Bonder Teng

25 October, 1974 – 29 December, 2018

El Camino Memorial - Sorrento Valley & Memorial Park

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