Campus Elementary 2016 Teacher of the Year - Stacey Zubair

Stacey Zubair
Nottingham Elementary
Prekindergarten through 5th Grade - Counselor


Education

Masters of Education in School Counseling, University of St. Thomas, 2015
Bachelor of Arts in Elementary Education, University of Houston, 2012

Teaching History

Nottingham Elementary, 2012-Present
Alief ISD, 2011-2012


Total Years in Education - 6 Years


In her own words . . .


“I believe children’s learning is derived from their social interactions and knowledge is transferred from one generation to the next. I believe that in order to foster the growth of children academically, socially, and personally, a child’s voice should always be heard. In addition, I believe that it takes the active collaboration of parents, school counselors, administrators, and the community to advocate the needs of a child.”


In the words of others . . .


“Stacey’s ‘heart of gold’ extends beyond the classroom walls. She is involved in various extra-curricular activities and gives of herself often and unconditionally. She truly cares about the community and students of Nottingham Elementary.”

– Rochelle L. Palla, Retired Nottingham Elementary teacher

“Mrs. Zubair’s willingness to ‘go the extra mile’ is her status quo. Her work ethic and commitment to students is respected and appreciated by myself, our school staff and our community. She does whatever it takes to make a true difference I many people’s lives.”

– Sherrie Folger, Nottingham Elementary Assistant Principal

Campus Elementary 2016 Teacher of the Year - Steven Turner

Steven Turner
Ridgecrest Elementary
Kindergarten through 5th Grade, Health Fitness


Education

Bachelor of Science in Human Performance, Prairie View A&M University, Prairie View, Texas, December 2006

Teaching History

Ridgecrest Elementary, 2006-Present

Total Years in Education - 10 Years


In his own words . . .


“I’m always reminded that the beauty of my profession changes the lives of so many different people each day, and personally, that makes me feel special. My personal belief about teaching is that all students deserve learning-centered environments, where they can receive information and necessary knowledge that will help them understand the importance of making great decisions.”

In the words of others . . .


“Mr. Turner has mastered the elusive art of building positive relationships with students, parents and staff members. He has gained the respect and admiration of the Ridgecrest community. He also mentors students from Landrum Middle School and Northbrook High School. He works with the students in teaching character skills through sports.”
Patricia Thomas, Ridgecrest Elementary Principal


“Mr. Turner is held to the highest esteem – by his peers as well as his students. He is an exceptional Health Fitness teacher. His interaction with students is remarkable. He has a knack for getting his students to comply with rules and regulations, whether participating in organized activities or simply walking along the hallways.”
LaVerie Wise, Ridgecrest Elementary Assistant Principal

Campus Elementary 2016 Teacher of the Year - Selma Prewitt

Selma Prewitt
Thornwood Elementary
Third-grade ESL (English as a Second Language) teacher


Education

Bachelor of Science in Education, Bowling Green State University, Bowling Green, Ohio, 1991

Teaching History

Thornwood Elementary, Third-Grade ESL, 1999-Present
Thornwood Elementary, Fourth-Grade ESL, 1993-1999
York Elementary School, Pike-Delta-York School District, Ohio, Part-time Remedial Math teacher, Feb.-May, 1992

Total Years in Education - 22 Years


In her own words . . .


“My philosophy regarding education is pretty simple: Teach with common sense and an eye toward the future. I don’t have any magical powers to help my students succeed, but I do have common sense and grit. Both of these qualities are what makes me a teacher who gets results from students, both academically and socially. ”

In the words of others . . .


“Ms. Prewitt is always searching for innovative ways to teach academic curriculum and life lessons that students will carry with them for years to come. She goes above and beyond in making sure that her students leave her class with a new foundation for learning. On any day, you can walk into her classroom and you will see her students engaged in an exciting learning project. She always demonstrates to students a variety of strategies to help them read or comprehend reading, writing, science and math.”
Caitlin Perkins, Thornwood Elementary third-grade teacher


“Ms. Prewitt is an expert in providing structure for her students followed by high expectations while demonstrating compassion which brings about success for all students. She also has a special way with developing these same strong relationships with her parents, which builds trust and creates a successful partnership for her students.”
Lynn Austin, Thornwood Elementary principal

Campus Elementary 2016 Teacher of the Year - Lindsey Copp

Lindsey Copp
The Lion Lane School for Early Learning
Prekindergarten teacher


Education

Masters of Education in Curriculum and Instruction, University of Texas at Arlington, Arlington, Texas, 2015-Present
Alternative Teacher Certification Program, 2009-2010
Bachelor of Arts and Sciences in General Studies, University of North Texas, Denton, Texas, 2008


Teaching History

The Lion Lane School for Early Learning, 2012-Present
Gabriela Mistral Center for Early Childhood (CEC), Houston ISD, 2011-2012

Total Years in Education - 5 Years


In her own words . . .


“As a teacher, my most important goal is to give every child the opportunity to learn. I will create an environment that my students know is a safe place to ask questions, explore and create. I know my students will bring different experiences with them and have different learning styles, interests, talents and fears. As a class, we will embrace those differences and encourage uniqueness while looking for common ground to bond us. My classroom will be a place where students work together to discover and learn, and my success will come from guiding my students in the right direction. I believe in turning ‘I can’t,’ into ‘I just did.’”

In the words of others . . .


“Ms. Copp continuously provides hands-on experiences to engage her young learners through content related projects. Projects range from using a simple cardboard box to create something unique to planting seeds and using math skills such as counting and measuring. She makes learning fun and meaningful for her young students.”
Griselda Balbuena, Wilchester Elementary kindergarten teacher


“Lindsey loves all of her students . . . even the most challenging ones. I have watched her work to provide much more than an academic education for her students. She consistently goes far beyond the expectation of a classroom teacher to see that the needs of children are met. You cannot be around her long before you realize that she sees the special gifts in each and every one of her students.”
Sharee Cantrell, The Lion Lane School Director

Campus Elementary 2016 Teacher of the Year - Angela Harris

Angela Harris
Woodview Elementary
Prekindergarten ESL (English as a Second Language) teacher


Education

Masters of Education in Reading Education, Houston Baptist University, Houston, Texas, Pursuing Currently
Alternative Certification Teacher Program, 2012
Bachelor of Arts in Mass Communications, Dillard University, New Orleans, La., May 2012

Teaching History

Woodview Elementary, 2014-Present
Young Elementary, Houston ISD, 2012-2014

Total Years in Education - 4 Years


In her own words . . .


“As a PreK teacher, I am one of the first people that a child meets that will help shape their view of learning. I take great pride in knowing that every day that I enter the classroom, I am helping a child fall in love with learning and make new meanings about the world around them. I strive to give my students the best instruction that I can give them and create new experiences and memories together.”

In the words of others . . .


“Ms. Harris brings an excitement and passion to our campus, each and every day. I like to say that she is the 2016 ‘new and improved’ version of “Ms. Frizzle from the Magic School Bus” series. Her students have hands-on learning opportunities daily and such fun events – dressing like 100-year-old people to celebrate 100 days of school, singing as the reindeer in the cutest Christmas performance you have ever seen, and running around the playground hunting for Easter eggs.”
– Becky Hagan, Woodview Elementary Assistant Principal

“I’ve witnessed Ms. Harris’ hard work firsthand with my PPCD (Preschool Program for Children with Disabilities) students. My students are on different levels academically than other students in her classroom and she has done a great job differentiating her small groups for them. Preparing lessons for students with special needs can be time consuming due to the level of preparation and detail that needs to be considered, but Ms. Harris does it every week in addition to the small group lessons she prepares for the students in her classroom.”
– Jonathan Christman, Woodview Elementary PPCD Teacher

Campus Elementary 2016 Teacher of the Year - Vivian Urrutia

Vivian Urrutia
Treasure Forest Elementary
2nd Grade - Reading & Language Arts Bilingual Teacher


Education

Alternative Certification, Generalist and Bilingual Supplemental, Early Childhood through 4th Grade
Bachelor of Arts in Elementary Education, University Del Valle of Guatemala, Guatemala City, Guatemala, 2003

Teaching History

Treasure Forest Elementary, 2012-Present
Raul Yzaguirre School for Success, Houston, Texas, 2007-2012
Monte Carmelo Catholic School, Guatemala City, Guatemala, 1997-2003
Escuela Rural Mixta Las Mercedes, Guatemala City, Guatemala, 1988-1996


Total Years in Education - 24 Years


In her own words . . .


“My passion in teaching is what gives me the strength to wake up every day, no matter what I am facing in my personal life, because I know my students will be waiting for me to have fun in learning in a safe and lovely environment.”


In the words of others . . .


“Ms. Urrutia is a joy. She is beyond caring of those that she works with and her scholars that she works for—daily. She will go out of her way to bring a smile, ease a burden, or show concern for anyone struggling. She is thoughtful, loving, and just a bit sentimental. She is an overall outstanding human being.”

– Aaron Dominguez, Treasure Forest Elementary Principal

“She works hard to meet the needs of her students by creating lessons that bring learning to life. Vivian is a passionate educator who is knowledgeable, dependable, and always willing to improve her craft. She is an experienced team leader and her easy going, flexible nature makes her a joy to work with on a daily basis.”

– Shelene Livas, Housman Elementary iCoach

Campus Elementary 2016 Teacher of the Year - Virginia Boughter

Virginia Boughter
Terrace Elementary
Kindergarten - 5th Grade, Teacher Librarian


Education

Masters of Science in Library Science, University of Houston-Clear Lake, 2011
Bachelor of Science in Academic Studies, Sam Houston State University, Huntsville, Texas, 2007


Teaching History

Terrace Elementary, 2012-Present
Chancellor Elementary School, 2008-2012


Total Years in Education - 8 Years


In her own words . . .


“Author Alan Gibbons says, ‘The school library is a refuge and a place of discovery,’ and I could not agree more. The library is the perfect place for students to find themselves in books and to discover they are not alone. I love introducing students to new technology and watching their faces light up as they see a robot they coded move or a circuit they created light up. Nothing makes me happier than sharing my passion for books and opening the minds of our students beyond the school walls.”


In the words of others . . .


“She is truly one of the best librarians that I have ever had the pleasure of supporting. She is a model for others and never hesitates to help a friend, a school, a parent, a teacher, and especially a child. Ginny demonstrates all of the qualities and values that are aligned with our core beliefs. She represents the type of teacher that will make T-2-4 possible.”

– April Falcon-Blanco, Terrace Elementary Principal

“Virginia Boughter exemplifies the 21st century educator. Her environment encourages students to take risks, share their passions, and globally connect. Her Library Learning Commons has no limits.”

– Jo Ann Conlon, SBISD Innovative Resource Media Systems Director

Campus Elementary 2016 Teacher of the Year - Tuoi Robichaux

Tuoi Robichaux
The Tiger Trail School
Prekindergarten Teacher


Education

Bachelor of Science in Early Childhood Education, University of Louisiana, Lafayette, La., 2011

Teaching History

The Tiger Trail School, 2013 - Present

Total Years in Education - 3 Years


In her own words . . .


“In my personal experiences teaching PreK, I feel like the most valuable trait to have as a teacher is patience. A teacher’s No. 1 responsibility is to never give up on a student, no matter how difficult the circumstances may be. This could mean finding an alternate strategy, bringing in other sources of learning techniques, or simply having the student take a step back and try again later.”


In the words of others . . .


“Mrs. Robichaux’s students are consistently courteous and caring of one another. This is an outgrowth of behaviors and expectations she regularly models for them. Interactions between students and her are warm, positive and cooperative. In observing Mrs. Robichaux working with parents, she’s equally as effective in engaging them as partner and problem solvers involved in their children’s education. Parents of her students frequently speak of their respect and admiration for her work with their children.”

– Vidal Garza, Tiger Trail School for Early Learning Director

Campus Secondary 2016 Teacher of the Year - Tracie Mouton

Tracie Mouton
District Alternative Education Program (DAEP)
All Grade Levels - High School Mathematics


Education

Masters of Arts in Counseling, Prairie View A&M University, Prairie View, Texas, 2001
Bachelor of Science in Criminal Justice with Mathematics minor, Lamar University, Beaumont, Texas, 1999


Teaching History

District Alternative Education Program (DAEP), 2009-Present
Westside High School, 2006-2008
LaMarque High School, 2004-2006


Total Years in Education - 11 Years


In her own words . . .


“I have always taught at a Title 1 school, giving back to at-risk students. Many people have given up on these students. I have not only been a teacher in the classroom, but a mother, counselor, and at times a shoulder to cry on. I am that teacher who never gives up on students, even when they want to throw in the towel themselves.”


In the words of others . . .


“Tracie is very adept at developing relationships with students who need more support at home and at school. Tracie has an excellent relationship with her students. She balances being positive with a firm hand. Her discipline approach is fair and allows for learning outcomes to occur.”

– Julie Porter, DAEP Assistant Principal

“Mrs. Mouton’s students would rate her as ‘great’ and I would absolutely agree. Her ability to interpret complex math concepts and explain challenging subject matter using real-life examples makes all the difference to her students and leads to their success.”

Kendrick Lookadoo, DAEP Principal

Campus Secondary 2016 Teacher of the Year - Sofia Guerrero

Sofia Guerrero
Landrum Middle School
7th Grade - Mathematics


Education

Bachelor of Science in Teaching and Learning, University of Houston, 2014

Teaching History

Landrum Middle School, 2014-Present

Total Years in Education - 2 Years


In her own words . . .


“A teacher is not just someone who comes into a school building to hand students assignments, to meet the curriculum, and assign tests at the end of the unit to expect mastery. A teacher is a life support and role model for all students. I firmly believe that teachers help develop the paths that students live.”


In the words of others . . .


“Sofia demonstrates qualities of a master teacher. She understands that a one-size-fits-all delivery system does not work best for diverse student populations. While planning for learning, Ms. Guerrero differentiates her lessons to address all of her students’ academic, cultural and emotional needs. Her lessons are filled with processing and learning strategies which allow her students to build schemas for understanding the content they are being taught.”

Steven Speyer, Landrum Middle School Principal

“Sofia is extremely passionate about the craft of teaching. When you walk in her room it is obvious how much time she spends creating an environment for students to succeed. Many days I see Sofia putting in the extra time creating just the right lesson, cut outs, or projects to help students find an interest and love for math.”

Brian Shillingburg, Landrum Middle School Assistant Principal

Campus Teacher of the Year 2016 - Diana Ahmad

Diana Ahmad
The Wildcat Way School
Pre-Kindergarten Bilingual

Education
Masters of Leadership, University of St. Thomas, Houston, 2014
Bachelor’s in Interdisciplinary Studies, University of Houston, 2003

Teaching History
The Wildcat Way School, 2011-Present
Buffalo Creek Elementary, 2007-2011

Total Years in Education - 9 Years

In her own words . . .


“Teaching and learning is an ongoing process. As a new PreK teacher, I have learned to focus on the big picture and work from there. I am a strong believer that children learn by doing. I also believe that it is very important to make learners independent and accountable for their learning.”

In the words of others . . .

“Diana embodies the District’s Core Values. She puts the needs of her students first, she builds on the strengths of her co-workers and students, she is committed to her students and enjoys her days with them, she fosters limitless curiosity in her classroom, and Diana is guided by her character, ethics, and integrity.” 
 Jessica Lopez, Buffalo Creek Elementary Health Fitness Instructor

“She is strong in laying a solid foundation which the students can build upon in the upper grades. She has a talent for making her lessons fun yet rigorous, having structure and being nurturing, leading and allowing children to lead. She is the all-around example of a positive balanced teacher.”
 Alexandra Barton, Spring Branch Elementary Intervention Specialist

Campus Teacher of the Year 2016 - Cage Durst

Cage Durst
Spring Oaks Middle School
7th Grade, Mathematics

Education
Pursuing a Masters of Education in Administration, Sam Houston State University, Huntsville, Texas – In Progress
Bachelor of Business Administration in Marketing, University of Houston, 2013 

Teaching History
Spring Oaks Middle School, 2014-Present

Total Years in Education - 2 Years

In his own words . . .


“My mother, grandmother, and great-grandmother inspired me to teach. I just remember seeing how many students’ lives they were able to change through their kind words, their loving nature, and through their teaching. Seeing them make such an impact on the lives of others is what inspired me to teach and want to change the lives of my kids.”

In the words of others . . .

“Mr. Cage has many qualities and practices which make him an outstanding educator. Instructionally sound, he is constantly reflecting and innovating new ways to engage his students and address their needs. His reflection leads him to seek out new ways to facilitate the learning of his students.” 
 Linda Guzman, Spring Oaks Middle School Assistant Principal 

“He is a hard worker and a true team player, willing to do whatever needs to be done to make his classroom and the school as a whole a better place. He is dedicated to each and every student in his classroom and their success in mathematics.”
Paul Suess, Principal of Spring Oaks Middle School

Campus Teacher of the Year 2016 - Shivani Agrawal

Shivani Agrawal
Westchester Academy for International Studies (WAIS) 
11th through 12th Grade, Mathematics

Education
Bachelors of Science in Engineering, Aligarh Muslim University, Aligarh, India, 1987

Teaching History
Westchester Academy for International Studies, 2006-Present
Hightower High School, Fort Bend ISD, 2004-2006
Substitute Teacher, Katy ISD, 2003-2004
Teaching Assistant, Institute of Engineering & Technology, Lucknow, India, 1988

Total Years in Education - 12 Years

In her own words . . .


“To me, teaching is a partnership in students’ success. I motivate students to help them believe in themselves and in their dreams. I always strive to look beyond the written text and work with my students in a way that they can see the connection of the lessons with their aspirations. My reward is when a student comes to my class five years after graduation and tells me how influential I have been for her and thanks me for believing in her. To me, every day is a learning experience and I am really thankful for my students, peers and administrators for helping in my journey.”

In the words of others . . .

“Mrs. Agrawal does not work or serve for awards or praise, but simply to inspire and impact all those she comes in contact with each day in a positive manner. Students thrive in her classroom, as she makes them, and their success, a priority. She has mastered the elusive art of being firm but fair, having rules yet maintaining relationships, and remembers always that her students are real human beings.” 
Alexia Greiner, Westchester Academy Assistant Director 

“Mrs. Agrawal serves as Chair of the International Baccalaureate (IB) Middle Years Program Personal Project. This position is monumental in scope, ensuring that every 10th-grade student completes work on his or her Personal Project. She is a resource to students and to staff members who are serving as Personal Project supervisors, and each year more of our students are successfully completing the Personal Project requirements because of Mrs. Agrawal’s leadership.”
Beverly Martin, Westchester Academy Lead Counselor

Campus Teacher of the Year 2016 - Sara Robertson

Sara Robertson
Sherwood Elementary
Kindergarten through 5th Grade, Adaptive Behavior Unit

Education
Bachelor of Arts, University of Houston-Downtown, 2004
Attended Houston Baptist University, 1999-2001
Attended New Mexico State University, Alamogordo, N.M., 1998-1999
Attended University of New Mexico, Albuquerque, N.M., 1997-1998

Teaching History
Sherwood Elementary, 2009-Present
Landrum Middle School, 2008-2009
Spring Branch Middle School, 2006-2008 

Total Years in Education - 10 Years

In her own words . . .


“I am all about data when it comes to academics and to behavior. People make fun of the joy I receive when constructing graphs based on my data. Data is great, dong something with the data is awesome, and using data to drive your focus in the classroom is outstanding.”

In the words of others . . .

“Sara works with some of our more behaviorally challenging students. Her calm but firm demeanor provides them with a sense of safety and structure that they require for success in school. She cares for Every Child.” 
Pam Edson, Sherwood Elementary Teacher

“Enter Sherwood Elementary School, turn left, go past the purple stairs, enter the hallways, and one will see all sorts of artwork, posters, and academic work from Mrs. Robertson’s classroom neatly displayed for all to enjoy. From the outside, one would see students engaged and adults working collaboratively together. What one might not know is that this teacher also supports some of our most challenging students in special education.”
Jan Teater, Sherwood Elementary Special Education Coordinator

Campus Teacher of the Year 2016 - Sarah Morris

Sarah Morris
The Panda Path School
PreKindergarten

Education
Bachelor of Arts in Interdisciplinary Studies, University of Houston, 2009

Teaching History
The Panda Path School, 2011-Present
Woodview Elementary School, 2009-2011
Hunters Creek Elementary, 2007-2009 

Total Years in Education - 7 Years

In her own words . . .


“When a student is able to write the first letter of their first name, it is rewarding to both of us. When they learn to write their whole name, read a sight word, voice print match, remember a beginning sound, draw a shape, build a castle with blocks, zip up their jackets, tie their shoes, make a new friend, help a classmate, count to 10 and higher, read a sentence and then a book, etc., these events are remarkable accomplishments. I am rewarded because I helped to make them happen . . .”

In the words of others . . .

“Whether students are learning in large group, small group or working in pairs at centers, every time I walk into her classroom students are engaged and learning. She works very hard to make sure all her students achieve more than is expected. By creating many of her own teaching materials she is able to customize the learning for each of her students.” 
Sara Hannes, Panda Path School for Early Learning Director 

“Sarah’s commitment to her students was evident by the level of caring and concern that she showed. She routinely sought to help students by getting them the extra support that they may have required. Whether working with inclusion students, ESL (English as a Second Language) students or students that had challenges in their home life, she worked well with other staff members to meet any of their special needs.”
Neda Scanlan, Woodview Elementary Retired Principal

Campus Teacher of the Year 2016 - Sarah Morphey

Sarah Morphey
Meadow Wood Elementary
4th Grade, Language Arts Teacher

Education
Bachelor of Science in Elementary Education, Illinois State University, Bloomington-Normal, Ill., 1988

Teaching History
Meadow Wood Elementary, 2013-Present
Terrace Elementary, 2005-2013, 1989-2004
Franz Elementary, Katy ISD, 2004-2005
Rummel Creek Elementary, 1988-1989

Total Years in Education - 28 Years

In her own words . . .


“The rewards I receive from being a teacher are both intrinsic and extrinsic. There is nothing better than watching children turn to each other for guidance and to work to solve problems independently. It’s also pretty amazing when my children practice songs at recess to sing singly for me at Christmas. There is nothing better than receiving a genuine hug or a Google Doc that one of my students worked on until they were nudged into bed. I truly believe that teaching is a gift and a privilege.”

In the words of others . . .

“Sarah structures her classroom and learning experiences so that all of her students will succeed. She creates an environment where students drive their own learning through choice, student-led discussions, and project-based learning. Sarah successfully implements the workshop model in both Reading and Writing, where students are reading texts they can and want to read and where students are writing about topics that are driven by audience and purpose.”
Cathy Roth, Lead Instructional Coach for Elementary Language Arts

“Sarah measures up to the highest standard of teaching and is truly my favorite person to present with because she reaches every learner in the way that the learner needs to be touched to find success. Working with Sarah is experiencing Collective Greatness because she shares such a deep institution of teaching and love of learning that it naturally inspires adults to up their quality and standards when they are around her.” 

“The powerful results of Sarah’s teaching is shown in the work her students produce. I love, love, love it when Sarah shares her student writing with me. Her children are writers! They demonstrate the confidence and quality that every child needs in order to be successful on their way to graduation and in the years that follow their time as students in Spring Branch.”
Melissa Ramirez, Sherwood Elementary Instructional Coach 

Campus Teacher of the Year 2016 - Sara Hernandez

Sara Hernandez
Pine Shadows Elementary School
Kindergarten Teacher

Education
Bachelor of Science in Interdisciplinary Studies, University of Houston, 2013 

Teaching History
Pine Shadows Elementary School, 2013-Present

Total Years in Education - 3 Years

In her own words . . .


“Every year I do not gain students but rather I gain a family. I see my students as a part of me, I see them as family. I go above and beyond for each and every one of them. I believe it resonates in me so deeply because I was that student. So I truly can understand what they are going through I believe the qualities that make me an outstanding teacher are that I have experienced what many of my students have been through.”

In the words of others . . .

“Sara Hernandez is a teacher of true integrity. She is the teacher that you want for your children. No task is too big for her, and she welcomes a challenge. Sara has a very bright future in education, and will have an impact on each child along her career path.”
Sarah Salas, Pine Shadows Elementary Assistant Principal  

Campus Teacher of the Year 2016 - Ross Attleson

Ross Attleson
Frostwood Elementary
5th Grade, Mathematics

Education
Masters of Educational Technology, Grand Canyon University, Phoenix, Arizona, 2008
Bachelor of Arts in Elementary Education with Math Specialization, University of Northern Iowa, Cedar Falls, Iowa, 1994
Associates of Arts Degree, North Iowa Area Community College, Mason City, Iowa, 1991

Teaching History
Frostwood Elementary, 2007-Present
Spring Shadows Elementary, 1999-2007
North Shore Elementary, Galena Park ISD, 1994-1999 

Total Years in Education - 22 Years

In his own words . . .


“The main reward that I find in teaching is seeing my current and former students have a certain level of confidence in their math abilities so that they know that they can conquer any math problem that comes their way. It pains me to see a student just give up on a math problem because they don’t know how to tackle it. I strive every day to make sure that my students have the confidence and ability to use their math and problem-solving skills to solve any problem thrown their way.”

In the words of others . . .

“Because of Mr. Attleson, Frostwood sends the best prepared students to middle school in the district. Additionally, somehow Mr. Attleson finds time to coach the boys running club, ‘Let Me Run.’ It is no wonder at all that Mr. Attleson has strong relationships with former students, often providing tutoring and mentoring throughout their high school and college years. Mr. Attleson is the ‘poster child’ for a T-2-4 teacher!” 
Ellen Green, Frostwood Elementary Principal  

“His students love him as shown by the many invitations he receives to their birthday parties, church programs, and athletic activities. He attends each and every one. This counts for former students as well. The seniors at Memorial High School are always excited to see Mr. Attleson in the stands at an athletic event or the auditorium for a performance.”
Malissa Downham, Frostwood Elementary Interdisciplinary iCoach 

Campus Teacher of the Year 2016 - Rachel Dupree

Rachel Dupree
Spring Branch Elementary
Kindergarten through 5th Grade, Special Education Resource Teacher

Education
Masters of Education in Advanced Literacy Instruction, Concordia University, Austin, Texas, 2012
Bachelor of Science in Interdisciplinary Studies, University of Houston, 2009

Teaching History
Spring Branch Elementary, 2014-Present
The Lion Lane School, 2013-2014
H.M. Carroll Elementary, Sheldon ISD, 2009-2013 

Total Years in Education - 7 Years

In her own words . . .

“Working in the field of education is more than a job for me, it is something that I approach with great passion and care. Being an educator is part of my identity and I am proud to play a vital role in shaping young lives. I believe that being a teacher is an opportunity to help children grow intellectually, socially and emotionally. I also believe that it is my responsibility to instill a love of learning and ensure that my students feel successful in all that they accomplish, big or small.”

In the words of others . . .

“She is able to connect so well with the students and with her team. She plans collaboratively with her team as well as with district personnel. She is involved with the program Girls on the Run and helps organize and advocate for our children. She also assists with our check in and check out discipline management program. She mentors the children throughout the day to make sure the children are on a positive track.” 
Kristie Avalos, Spring Branch Elementary Assistant Principal 

“One of Rachel’s gifts is that she is attuned to the needs of each one of her students and creates timely and strategic interventions that are individualized, thoughtful, and creative. Rachel’s interventions are based on carefully collected data and detailed anecdotal records. Most importantly, her interventions are successful, because they are provided within a relationship of respect and appreciation.”
Ana Christina Nieto, Spring Branch Elementary School Counselor

Campus Teacher of the Year 2016 - Patricia Aucock

Patricia Aucock
Memorial Middle School
6th through 8th Grade, Language Arts/Social Studies
English as a Second Language (ESL)

Education
Bachelor of Arts in Education, Sam Houston State University, Huntsville, Texas, 1998

Teaching History
Memorial Middle School, 2004-Present
Spring Woods Middle School, 1998-2004
Treasure Forest Elementary, 1996-1998
Ridgecrest Elementary, 1989-1996

Total Years in Education - 27 Years

In her own words . . .


“My philosophy of teaching is summed up in one phrase: ‘One size does not fit all.’ I believe that being a successful teacher incorporates compassion and curiosity and that getting to really know your students is one of the most important steps to growth and success. My style is very hands on, and I try to personally talk to each student every day.”

In the words of others . . .

“Patty Aucock represents all that is right in the world. Her unselfish attitude towards her students, co-workers, and community is surpassed by no one. She works tirelessly to assist these wonderful students who come to us from all parts of the world. No language barrier exists in her ability to communicate and to express her care with her children.” 
Cindy Barranco, Memorial Middle School Assistant Principal

“Mrs. Aucock demonstrates SBISD’s Core Values on a daily basis. She has a Collaborative Spirit while working diligently for Every Child.”
Dave Parker, Memorial Middle School Principal

Campus Teacher of the Year 2016 - Natalie McGinness

Natalie McGinness
Shadow Oaks Elementary
Pre-Kindergarten through 5th Grade, Teacher Librarian

Education
Bachelor of Science in Interdisciplinary Studies, Texas A&M University at College Station, 2007
Master of Science in School Library and Information Science, University of North Texas, Denton, Texas, 2012

Teaching History
Shadow Oaks Elementary, 2013-Present
Exley Elementary, Katy ISD, 2008-2013

Total Years in Education - 8 Years

In her own words . . .


“A positive classroom environment is critical to the success of students. As such, teachers must maintain a safe classroom environment in which students feel highly valued and respected. Likewise, meaningful learning activities should be incorporated in a fun and educational manner. In doing so, students are more apt to engage in the learning material. They will develop a positive attitude toward their education and its relevance to their lives.”

In the words of others . . .

“Natalie is known for her innovation, creativity, and use of best practices that ignite a passion for learning in students. Her technique incorporates strategies specifically designed to meet the needs of learners whether they need auditory, visual, or kinesthetic approaches. Students choose their learning style from the multiple stations that Natalie creates in her Learning Commons. Everyone in her classes learn because they are encouraged and empowered to, yet there is a strong sense of comfort in asking for help from fellow classmates or Mrs. McGinness.” 
Jo Ann Conlon, SBISD Innovative Resource Media Systems Director 

“In just three short years, Mrs. McGinness has transformed literacy on our campus. There is a ‘buzz about books’ throughout our school. In the first year, our students reached their goal of reading over 25,000 books independently before, during and after school. Now in the third year, our students are on target to meet our goal of 55,000 books!”
Julie Baggerly, Shadow Oaks Elementary Principal

Campus Teacher of the Year 2016 - Mary Walker

Mary Walker
The Bendwood School
3rd through 5th Grade, Gifted and Talented History & Science

Education
Bachelor of Science in Interdisciplinary Studies, Texas A&M University, College Station, 2013

Teaching History
The Bendwood School, 2013-Present

Total Years in Education - 3 Years

In her own words . . .


“I find the teaching profession to be very rewarding. Seeing a student grasp a difficult concept after a lengthy explanation or lesson is very satisfying, and one of the reasons why I became a teacher. The ability to inspire and nurture young minds into seeing and developing their potential is such an honor and responsibility, and one that I do not take lightly.”

In the words of others . . .

“Her energy brings a breath of fresh air to our school. She is also a savvy and instructional leader on our campus. She eagerly shares her curriculum ideas and teaching methods during team meetings. Whether it is a new technique for delivering a lesson, or sharing her latest robot, our team has benefitted from Ms. Walker’s expertise and instructional leadership.” 
Patricia Kassir, The Bendwood School Instructor  

“Ms. Walker demonstrates a dedication to her students and an enthusiasm for teaching that is inspiring. When I visit her classroom, students are excited, engaged, and involved in the learning process. It is evident that Ms. Walker has worked tirelessly to build relationships with her students.”
Jana Bassett, The Bendwood School Principal

Campus Teacher of the Year 2016 - Maria Jaimes

Maria Jaimes
Cedar Brook Elementary
2nd Grade, Bilingual Teacher

Education
Masters of Bilingual Education, University of Texas at Rio Grande Valley, Brownsville, Texas, 2016
Bachelor of Science in Hotel and Restaurant Management, University of Houston, 2002

Teaching History
Cedar Brook Elementary, 2010-Present

Total Years in Education - 6 Years

In her own words . . .


“If anything makes me an outstanding teacher it is my firm belief in the potential of each of my students. Many of their families have immigrated to America with the sole purpose of creating a better life. I see myself as a tool to make this dream a reality. Their willingness to improve is my daily fuel to offer them the best of myself.”

In the words of others . . .

“She does everything with Every Child in mind. Maria makes decisions based on what children need. She loves her students and appreciates her parents and family members. Just last week, Maria helped to lead and organize a second-grade parent meeting that reached more parents than we could have imagined. Ms. Jaimes makes a true difference in her classroom, in our school, and in Spring Branch ISD.”
Jeff Post, Cedar Brook Elementary Principal   

“She actively works to build strong relationships with her students and their families. She runs an orderly, well-organized classroom with clear expectations, well-established routines, and rigorous instruction. She has demonstrated that she is willing to do whatever is necessary to meet the needs of her students. She is passionate about doing what is right for students.”
Anne Dennis, of Cedar Brook Elementary Assistant Principal
Spring Branch ISD