Campus Elementary Teacher of the Year - Caitlin Perkins

Caitlin Perkins
Thornwood Elementary

3rd Grade - English as a Second Language (ESL)

Education
Texas A&M University at College Station, Bachelor of Science in Interdisciplinary Studies, 2010
Texas State Teacher Certification, Early Childhood to Fourth Grade

Teaching History
Thornwood Elementary, 3rd Grade ESL-Self-Contained, 2012-Present
Spring Branch Elementary, 3rd Grade ESL-Self-Contained, 2011-12
Thornwood Elementary, 3rd Grade ESL-Self-Contained, 2010-11

Total Years in Education - 5 Years

In her own words . . .

“For a teacher to be successful, building positive relationships with their students is imperative. I am able to create these relationships with my students by showing them how much I care and believe in their future success. By the end of the year, my goal is to have my students walk away with knowing that their future is in their hands. They can achieve anything they set their mind to.”

In the words of others . . .

“Girls on the Run was a project Caitlin initiated and sponsored on her own in order to support our girls and their self-esteem. The program has made such an impact and has been so popular that we have added sessions for the fall and spring.” 
- Vicki Lullo, Thornwood Elementary Assistant Principal

“One of the most important roles that Ms. Perkins plays in regards to her students is ‘matriarch.’ She is constantly promoting the SBISD idea of ‘One Family,’ and was doing so long before the district adopted the goal. Ms. Perkins makes student successes into a family celebration to show that they are all interdependent and ‘in this together.’”
- Selma Prewitt, Thornwood Elementary 3rd Grade Team Leader

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Campus Elementary Teacher of the Year - Katya Michel

Katya Michel
The Wildcat Way School for Early Learning
Prekindergarten, 2008-Present

Education
Universidad del Valle del Atemajac Guadalajara, Jalisco, Mexico, Law Degree, 2001
Universidad Autonoma de Guadalajara, Jalisco, Mexico, 1995

Teaching History
Wildcat Way School for Early Learning, Prekindergarten, 2008-Present
Panda Path School for Early Learning, Prekindergarten, 2003-2008

Total Years in Education - 11 years

In her own words . . .

“I teach PreK children ages 4 to 5 years old to be true bilingual citizens, to read and write, their numbers, the alphabet, to sing, to use a pair of scissors, and to socialize and be independent children who are able to follow routines. For me, working in bilingual education in the United States of America is very rewarding and extremely important.”

In the words of others . . .

“Ms. Michel exhibits all the attributes Spring Branch ISD values in a teacher. Katya is an energetic, joyful, compassionate, passionate and caring educator.” 
- Vivian Pratts, Edgewood Principal/Bilingual ESL Dept. Director

“Year after year, Katya has worked to build a positive rapport with parents, and she enlists them as partners in the learning of their children.” 
- Tim Ashford, Wildcat Way School for Early Learning Administrator

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Campus Elementary Teacher of the Year - Felipe Acosta

Felipe Acosta
Treasure Forest Elementary
3rd Grade - Bilingual Self-Contained

Education
University of St. Thomas Alternative Certification Program Region IV, 2003
Externado de Colombia University, Bachelor of Science in Economics, 2002

Teaching History
Treasure Forest Elementary, 3rd Grade Bilingual Self-Contained, 2011-Present
Treasure Forest Elementary, 4th Grade Bilingual Self-Contained, 2009-11
Edgewood Elementary, 3rd Grade Bilingual Self-Contained, 2004-09
Landis Elementary, Alief ISD, 2nd Grade Bilingual Self-Contained, 2003-04
Certifications: Bilingual Generalist Early Childhood through Fourth Grade

Total Years in Education - 12 years

In his own words . . .

“My philosophy of teaching has been to focus on inspiring students from any background or ethnicity to become future leaders and entrepreneurs, nation builders. Building bridges of trust with my students and parents, by opening channels of positive communication in order to create systems of support to be able to increase student achievement. . . . Planting seeds of leadership in individuals who can apply a set of skills with values like tolerance, forgiveness and humility to lead our nation.”

In the words of others . . .

“Felipe is quite creative. He is always working on different projects with literacy and technology that excite his students. He works tirelessly to find the strategies, books and resources that his students find engaging. His room is child centered. When you walk in his classroom, you can see that the students take great pride in making this place a home away from home. It is a very inviting and calming environment.” 
- Maureen Ucles, Treasure Forest Elementary Lead iCoach

“Felipe is deeply dedicated to all children, not solely those within his classroom. He has nurtured third- and fourth-grade students in all core subjects, but most amazing is his creative ability to ignite and excite a deep desire within his students to explore, discover, learn and express their cross-curricular understandings.”
- Kathleen Perry, Treasure Forest Elementary teacher

“While remaining current with the latest instructional strategies and technologies, he can still reach a troubled or struggling student with simple, yet profound, caring instincts and empathy coupled with complete professionalism. Likewise, he also challenges his brightest of students because of professional development experiences and innovations he has pursued.

Felipe has a calling on his life, and that calling is teaching. He teaches his students to strive for excellence, to love reading, and to respect each other, to wear a smile, to have faith, and to remember that the storms of life can often produce beautiful rainbows and new growth.”
- Blanca Reyes, Treasure Forest Elementary Principal

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Campus Elementary Teacher of the Year - Nicola Pilon

Nicola Pilon
The Tiger Trail School for Early Learning
Prekindergarten - English as a Second Language Teacher, 2001-Present

Education
Illinois State University (Normal, Illinois), Bachelor’s Degree in Elementary Education, 1992

Teaching History
Tiger Trail School for Early Learning, Prekindergarten ESL, 2001-Present
Reece Academy Magnet School, Aldine ISD, Montessori Teacher, 1996-2001
Langstead School, North Forest ISD, Prekindergarten, 1993-96

Total Years in Education - 23 years

In her own words . . .

“The biggest reward I find in teaching is knowing that I have actually made a difference in a child’s life. There is truly nothing better than having a child coming back to visit years later, and hearing them tell you that you were their favorite teacher, and seeing the excitement in their eyes as they tell you all of the success they’ve had since they left you. That is when you know you are an outstanding teacher.”

In the words of others . . .

“It is not very often that you have such a dedicated teacher who is so very strong instructionally and teaches with 100 percent commitment each and every day, all while enjoying it.”
- Leslie Marquez, Literacy Consultant

“One of the main reasons I stayed in Spring Branch ISD as a teacher this year is so that my daughter could have Mrs. Pilon. Currently, my daughter is in Mrs. Pilon’s class. I have seen tremendous growth due to her. My daughter has a love for learning, loves going to school, knows almost all of her letters, is beginning to read, increased her fine motor skills, and most importantly loves her teacher!” 
- Susan Wilkins, Westwood Elementary 1st Grade Teacher

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Campus Elementary Teacher of the Year - Elsie Contreras

Elsie Contreras
Panda Path School for Early Learning
Prekindergarten - Bilingual Teacher, 2013-Present

Education
University of Houston, Bachelor of Science, Teaching & Learning, 2012

Teaching History
Panda Path School for Early Learning, Prekindergarten, 2013-Present
Nottingham Elementary, Long-Term Substitute, Winter/Spring, 2013

Total Years in Education - 2 years

In her own words . . .

“I knew that this profession wasn’t going to be easy, but I also didn’t know how much I would love it. I love seeing the efforts my students put forth each and every day. I also love all of the love I receive from my little ones. The hugs, drawings and treats are endless, but the best part of being a teacher is seeing the students’ growth throughout the year. They start with so little, and they leave with so much!”

In the words of others . . .

“Elsie is an extraordinary teacher. She has a positive work ethic, engaging and creative teaching methods, organized classroom management skills and loving arms with a smile always on her face. Her positive attitude makes being part of her team an honor. ” 
- Omayra Hernandez, Panda Path School for Early Learning Teacher

“Her positive attitude and creativity make her classroom a fun and exciting place to learn. This year, her classroom provided students many different opportunities to role play. For a time, it was a coffee shop where students got to be the customers or servers. Then it became a pizza parlor where students ‘cooked,’ served and ate pizza. The latest transformation was into a barn yard where students can be farmers and take care of animals . . . In Ms. Contreras class, learning and having fun go together. ” 
- Sara Hannes, Panda Path School for Early Learning Director

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Campus Elementary Teacher of the Year - Estefana Maria Limas

Estefana Maria Limas
The Lion Lane School for Early Learning
Prekindergarten, 2014-Present

Education
University of Phoenix, Bachelor in Business Management, 2000

Teaching History
Years in Spring Branch ISD, 14 years
The Lion Lane School for Early Learning, Prekindergarten, 2014-Present
The Tiger Trail School for Early Learning, Prekindergarten, 2012-2014

Total Years in Education - 3 years

In her own words . . .

“My motivating factor for being a teacher is having the opportunity to be part of the journey that will help build the future of a child. The moments that inspire me are those of student achievement whether from mastering writing a name to learning to socialize and be respectful to peers, as well as just showing students love and affection.”

In the words of others . . .

“Estefana is always looking for new ways to challenge and meet the needs of every student that walks through her doorway. She is always able to create a successful learning environment allowing all of her students to feel safe and successful.” 
- Dana Dale, Lion Lane School for Early Learning Assistant Director

“Estefana has a wonderful relationship with her parents. She uses technology to share what is going on in class by sending parents pictures and text. This has been a pleasure for my family to be included in each day. Parents really appreciate pictures of their child at school or a short note about their successes.” 
- Sharee Cantrell, Lion Lane School for Early Learning Director

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Campus Elementary Teacher of the Year - Patricia Brady

Patricia Brady
The Bear Boulevard School for Early Learning
Prekindergarten - Bilingual Teacher, 2001-Present

Education
University of Houston, Bachelor of Science in Interdisciplinary Studies, Cum Laude, 1995
Blinn College, Associate of Arts Degree, 1993
Certifications: Elementary Education, Kindergarten to 8th Grade; English as a Second Language (ESL); Bilingual Education; Early Childhood Education; University of Houston-Clear Lake, Reading Recovery Teacher Training

Teaching History
Wilchester Elementary, Bilingual Prekindergarten, 2001-Present
Cedar Brook Elementary, Prekindergarten, 1999-2001
Cedar Brook Elementary, DLL Teacher/ESL Specialist, 1995-2001

Total Years in Education - 20 years

In her own words . . .

“What inspires me? Children inspire me! I love being the first teacher (in a school setting) of young students and helping to set a strong foundation for a lifetime of learning.”

In the words of others . . .

“Patty is a team player and gets along with other teachers and administrators. She has a keen interest in the success of the school as a whole. Ms. Brady’s passion and enthusiasm for learning are contagious to all those in her presence.” 
- Kimberly Hammer, Bear Boulevard School for Early Learning Director

“Patty is the kind of teacher that is always willing to share experiences and wonderful ideas not only on my campus, but teachers in the Houston area. I have seen how she guides and helps teachers when they need support in reading and writing. Her knowledge in Reading Recovery and Early Childhood makes her very special.” 
- Vicente Hernandez, Bear Boulevard School for Early Learning Bilingual Teacher

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Campus Elementary Teacher of the Year - Jennifer Deaton

Jennifer Deaton
Wilchester Elementary
4th Grade - Math and Science

Education
Lamar University, Beaumont, TX, Education Administration coursework, 2013-14
Texas A&M University, Master’s Degree in Education Psychology, 2006
Texas A&M University, Bachelor of Science in Psychology, 2002

Teaching History
Wilchester Elementary, 4th Grade Math & Science, 2013-Present
Wilchester Elementary, Kindergarten, 2005-2009
Hunters Creek Elementary, Kindergarten Teacher, 2005-2009
Holleman Elementary, Waller ISD, 1st Grade Dual-Language Teacher, 2002-2005

Total Years in Education - 13 years

In her own words . . .

“My reward comes when my students come to school with a sense of self-worth and confidence. . . . As their year progresses, they become more confident and mature. These little ones that walk in giggling with excitement and a little apprehension, walk out in June with a skip in their step and a bit wiser.”

In the words of others . . .

“Jennifer has poise with both children and parents that invite dialogue and learning. I have always admired her patience. In a community where children and parents seem rushed, she is always in control of the moment. To this day, our girls frequently quote Ms. Deaton and we are always so excited to see her in the halls. It is hard to describe the immense positive impact she has had on both of our girls, both educationally and personally.” 
- Camille Stern, Wilchester Elementary Parent

“She is the ‘real deal,’ the elder eagle, the teacher you want your own children to have every single year! Not only does she teach our young people the academics they need to know in this world, but she teaches them how to ‘be’ in this world by what she models – kindness, caring, loving, encouragement and dedication.” 
- Y. Michelle Perkins, Wilchester Elementary Parent and SBISD Counselor

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Campus Elementary Teacher of the Year - Jonathan Christman

Jonathan Christman
Woodview Elementary
Preschool Program for Children with Disabilities (PPCD) Kindergarten and PreK Special Education Teacher

Education
Houston Baptist University, Special Education Endorsement, 2006
Le Tourneau University, Bachelor of Interdisciplinary Studies, 2005
Houston Police Academy, TCLEOSE Certified Peace Officer, 1994-95

Teaching History
Woodview Elementary, PPCD Kindergarten and PreK Special Education, 1 Year
Valley Oaks Elementary, PPCD Kindergarten and PreK Special Education, 4 Years

Total Years in Education - 5 years

In his own words . . .

“I’m inspired working with children with special needs. When I observe my students do something for the first time, that’s what motivates me.”

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Campus Elementary Teacher of the Year - Lindsey Buse

Lindsey Buse
Valley Oaks Elementary
AIM (Autism Intervention and Management) Special Education Teacher

Education
Texas State University, Bachelor’s Degree in Education, 2008

Teaching History
Valley Oaks Elementary, AIM Special Education Teacher, 2012-Present
Shadow Oaks Elementary, LifeSkills Special Education Teacher, 2010-12
Shadow Oaks Elementary, Resource Special Education Teacher, 2008-10

Total Years in Education - 6 years

In her own words . . .

“I am incredibly passionate about teaching, and the kids and families that I work with. I see a lot of children who have so many extraordinary abilities, but need to be taught the skills and strategies to be the most successful version of themselves. . . . I truly love my job. The greatest reward is seeing a child overcome obstacles and start advocating for themselves and their future. That makes it all worth it!”

In the words of others . . .

“Lindsey has a limitless understanding and patience with her students. Repeatedly, I have witnessed her gentle approach bring even the most determined student to make the right choice. Lindsey has the ability to bring out the best in students and co-workers alike, all the while maintaining continuous professionalism.” 
- Bruce Burgner, Valley Oaks Elementary paraprofessional

“We can all learn from people like Lindsey Buse. Our Valley Oaks World is a better place because of the humble spirit of this strong, gentle woman and we have all benefited from her efforts to live each day to the fullest!” 
- Marcia Looper, Valley Oaks Elementary Fifth-Grade Teacher

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Campus Elementary Teacher of the Year - Noemi Leon-Garcia

Noemi Leon-Garcia
Westwood Elementary
4th Grade - Bilingual Teacher

Education
Houston Baptist University, Bachelor of Arts Degree in Bilingual Education, 2003
Houston Community College, Associate of Arts Degree, 2000

Teaching History
Westwood Elementary, 4th Grade Bilingual, 2010-Present
Buffalo Creek Elementary, 4th Grade Bilingual Teacher, 2005-2010
Buffalo Creek Elementary, 2nd Grade Bilingual Teacher, 2003-2005

Total Years in Education - 12 years

In her own words . . .

“I believe we are in this profession as a helping hand. We may be seen as superheroes to some of our students. We don’t only educate them, but at times we become their counselor, nurse and even caregiver. A teacher’s heart has a never ending love for her students. They are on our minds constantly.”

In the words of others . . .

“Ms. Leon’s love and high expectations for her students is what makes her such an amazing educator. She understands the importance of not only being a highly qualified teacher, but a mentor, counselor, tutor and friend. If you have the opportunity to see her at work, whether it is before school, during lunch, or after school, you can find her working with groups of kids. No child is left behind if she has anything to do with it!” 
- Kay Kennard, Westwood Elementary Principal

“When you walk into Noemi’s room, you feel invited and relaxed. Her walls are filled with student work and anchor charts. Books abound all around her room. Noemi loves to teach Language Arts and she works tirelessly to infuse science, social studies and math with literacy.”
- Maureen Ucles, Lead iCoach, Elementary Language Arts

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