Appreciated Teacher Awards

1. Arissa Hayden – Sheldon ISD

With over 8 years of dedicated teaching experience, I have had the privilege of serving as a passionate advocate for literacy development as a reading and writing teacher. Throughout my career, I have consistently sought innovative approaches to enhance student learning, particularly in preparation for the STAAR testing methods. My commitment to academic excellence has been recognized through my achievements as a 2-time finalist for Teacher of the Year.

Beyond the classroom, I am deeply involved in community service initiatives, fostering a culture of compassion and social responsibility among my students. Whether through toy drives, volunteering at local shelters, or leading community clean-up efforts, I strive to instill in my students the importance of giving back and making a positive impact in society.

As a Robotics coach, I have had the privilege of nurturing students’ interest in STEM fields, fostering creativity, critical thinking, and teamwork. Through hands-on projects and competitions, I encourage students to explore their potential and develop invaluable skills for their future endeavors.

Additionally, I am proud to serve as a staff ambassador, bridging communication between faculty, administration, and parents to ensure a supportive and collaborative educational environment. By fostering strong relationships and open dialogue, I aim to create a school community where every voice is heard and valued.

In summary, my diverse experiences as an educator, community leader, and advocate for student success have equipped me with the skills, knowledge, and passion to make a meaningful difference in the lives of my students and the community at large.

2. Paola Beltran-Leon – Humble ISD

My name is Paola Beltran-Leon, and I am thrilled to be nominated for this contest.

My passion for teaching started in high school when I was a newcomer who knew very little English. I was fortunate to have incredible human beings as teachers who ignited the dream of one day being someone like them. With eight years of experience teaching in elementary schools and a passion for education that spans back to my college days as a tutor for students who needed the content and language support, I am dedicated to making a difference in the lives of my students every single day.

As a bilingual certified teacher, I’ve had the privilege of connecting with a diverse range of students and families, fostering an inclusive learning environment where everyone feels valued and supported. My bilingual and Middle School/High School Spanish certification further enhances my ability to offer enriching language education opportunities to my students.
In addition to my bilingual certification, I am also certified to teach dyslexic students which has been a great experience to recognize the importance of specialized instruction tailored to meet the unique needs of every learner. Whether it’s through multisensory techniques or personalized interventions, I am committed to helping each child reach their full potential.
Throughout my career, I have taught various grade levels, including 1st, 2nd, and 5th grade, allowing me to develop a deep understanding of the developmental milestones and academic challenges that students face at different stages of their education. As a private tutor, I have worked with children from Pre-K through 5th grade, providing individualized support in math, reading, writing, and science.

One of the highlights of my career has been to serve as an interventionist at a school, where I had the opportunity to collaborate with colleagues, analyze data, and implement targeted interventions to support students facing academic difficulties. Witnessing the progress and growth of these students reaffirmed my belief in the power of education to transform lives.
I am truly grateful for the opportunity to make a positive impact in the lives of children, and I am honored to be considered for this recognition. Thank you for your support, and I look forward to continuing to advocate for the success and well-being of every student in our community. Together, we can inspire a lifelong love of learning and empower the leaders of tomorrow.

3. Amberlee Whitted- Cleveland ISD

I am honored to be considered for this recognition from Gulf Coast Educators Federal Credit Union.
I began my teaching career in Earth and Space Science at Cleveland High School in 2022. When the opportunity arose to join the welding program the following school year, I knew that my background perfectly aligned with my passion for the industry, and I was excited to bring my knowledge and ten years of experience as a Non-Destructive Testing Inspector into this program and cultivate and encourage students’ interest in the industry.

My core mission is to help equip students with the skills and knowledge necessary to thrive in the welding and inspection industry after graduation. This dedication struck a chord with one of my students this year as he nominated me as a teacher who has made the most impact for him during Teacher Appreciation Night, specifically citing my influence and the practical skills he has gained in my class. Witnessing such growth and the impact I have on students like him is one of the most rewarding aspects of being an educator. Beyond technical learning, I am deeply committed to fostering a diverse and inclusive learning environment. I actively encourage young women in my classes to pursue opportunities in the welding and inspection industry, a field that has traditionally been male-dominated. Seeing them embrace their potential and develop the skills to become future leaders in this field is a truly fulfilling aspect of my work.

I believe classrooms should be dynamic and engaging spaces that spark curiosity, and empower student learning. I strive to create fun, real-world lessons that connect to students’ lives beyond the classroom walls. I’ve implemented project-based learning opportunities where students collaborate on projects that mirror real-world industry scenarios. These projects not only reinforce technical skills like welding techniques and blueprint reading, but also strengthen essential skills like teamwork, problem-solving, and critical thinking. Cultivating strong relationships with students is a cornerstone of my teaching philosophy. I believe in creating a safe and supportive classroom environment where students feel comfortable asking questions, taking risks, and learning from their mistakes. I get to know my students on a personal level by learning about their interests and aspirations. This allows me to tailor my teaching approach to their individual needs and learning styles. Building these connections not only enhances their learning experience but also empowers them to reach their full potential.

Cleveland High School has fostered a collaborative and supportive environment for new educators, like myself. I want to shout-out two of my mentors, Krystall Mitchell and Karen Steinbach, who have been instrumental in my development. Their guidance has proved invaluable to helping me grow as an educator, and I will forever be thankful for their guidance. As a Cleveland Indian, I’m excited to continue contributing to the school’s growth, values, mission and empowering the next generation of leaders.

4. Cinthya Bustamante Ramirez – Spring ISD

My passion for teaching began with my experience as a daycare teacher at the age of 18. There, I discovered my love for teaching young children. Five years after high school graduation I decided to enroll full-time at the University of Houston Down-Town where I then earned my bachelor’s degree in interdisciplinary studies. A few years later I received my master’s in education administration from Concordia University in Austin. My philosophy and love of education is deeply rooted in early childhood because that is where we build the fundamentals for a successful learning career. Being a prekindergarten teacher implies to me the understanding that we are part of the structural academic foundation of all human beings who have access to education. It means to develop in children universal standards for learning, listening, and reflection. Therefore, empowering these future generations to make a difference and control their destiny, and perhaps the fate of their contemporary and future generations. To educate is to live out my profession everyday with hope, love, and perseverance. It is vitally important that I as a teacher understand that each student brings with him a culture, a history, and that although different, we must be able to understand, communicate, and express ourselves in a dialogic way and without prejudice to any of them.

During my 14 years as a prekindergarten educator, I have had the privilege of working with families and students alike. It has given me the opportunity to work with parents alongside their children. I help parents understand the importance of their role as their child’s first teacher and empower them to use everyday life as learning opportunities for their preschool children. I adapt and modify learning activities to increase parent involvement and growth in their confidence and ability to teach their children. I enjoy teaching others in my field as well. I have had the opportunity to share my philosophy, best practices, and methods of teaching with teachers across our state through professional development presentations. Some which include: Plant a Rainbow for the University of Houston, Harris County Department of Education, Frog Street Splash, National Association for the Education of Young Children (NAEYC), Texas Association for the Education of Young Children (TXAEYC), Houston Association for the Education of Young Children (HAEYC), and Kinder Teachers of Texas (KTOT). The focus of my presentations has included: Promoting parent participation, creating an age-appropriate learning environment in the early childhood classroom, and brain development in the young child.

As team lead for our prekindergarten teachers at Northgate Crossing Elementary, I strive to lead by example therefore I continue to learn and strengthen my skills as an educator. With that mindset, I strive to keep ongoing communication and collaboration with my colleagues, administrators, and parents to achieve success for all students an to produce the best possible learning environment for them. The best way to produce a great learning environment is by first holding myself accountable and being an exemplary educator both in word and action. My work ethic and dedication have been recognized by being awarded campus bilingual teacher of the year twice and winning the Suburban Houston Association for Bilingual Education (SHABE) award. I was also named campus teacher of the year twice ultimately winning Spring Independent School District elementary teacher of the year. I also had the honor of being a finalist for the Martel Award for early childhood educators, and through the Donors Choose program I have had class projects funded allowing me to receive a grant seeking achievement certificate. Being rewarded for doing something I love has only encouraged me to move forward in my pursuit of making a difference in young children’s lives. So much so it encompasses many areas of my personal life.

My faith and my community are two important parts of my life. I began volunteering in children’s ministry in 2006. Volunteering led to me holding the position of Children’s Pastor at my church as of February 2020. Working with children in the community is one of the most rewarding experiences. I can move beyond academics and truly speak to their values, morals, and spirituality. I am responsible for the education of our early childhood group ages 4-8. The weight of being entrusted and partially responsible for their spiritual growth compels me not only to lead them to a personal relationship and lifelong devotion to Christ, but it also requires me to live a life worthy of His calling. Moreover, as a leader in my daughter’s American Heritage Girls troop, I lead the girls to apply biblical truth as they work towards earning badges that encourage them to love God, cherish their family, honor their country, and serve in their community.
I have often quoted “If you love what you do, you’ll never work a day in your life” because it is true from my perspective. The past 14 years in education although difficult, have been fulfilling and I look forward to the years ahead.

5. Sabrina Bertrand – La Porte ISD

I am deeply honored to be nominated as a recipient of the 2023-2024 GCEFCU Teacher Appreciation Award. I am currently working through my eighth year as an English Language Arts Teacher. One interesting fact about me is that teaching is my second career. I became an educator at the young age of 44.

Prior to becoming a teacher, I spent my career in financial and retirement planning services. Periodically, I would entertain the idea of moving into education. Then one day, I had the strong feeling that my time with Corporate America had come to an end. It became important to me to be in a career where I made a difference in our world. Teaching was/is the answer.

I have earned a few accolades throughout my teaching career, including the 2022 HAABE Campus Teacher of the Year ESL Secondary. This nomination from GCEFCU is special because the votes came from friends, family members, colleagues, administrators, former students, and the parents of my current students. The ones who have witnessed and experienced my passion for teaching.

One of the greatest life lessons I have learned so far is that, teaching is not a job; it is a calling. I am a woman of faith; therefore, I truly believe that I am fulfilling God’s work, His plan for me. All educators can agree that we have had many days where we feel like throwing up our hands and walking away from the profession. Once I take a breather to regroup, I remind myself why I teach. The simple answer is, “my kids.” I cannot nor will I quit on our future. They desperately need us. So, when you have one of those bad days, please remember my words.

Thank you for your time and vote!