Fort Worth Independent School District
Past Winners
2025-2026
2025-2026 Winners
KaCee Dobbins, Diamond Hill-Jarvis High School, is the Broadway at the Bass Chair for Teaching Excellence in Dance and Theater. She has a master’s degree from the University of North Texas Health Science Center, a bachelor’s degree from the University of North Texas, and has four years of teaching experience. Through her innovative teaching strategies, Ms. Dobbins approaches her instruction of students holistically. “Students are not only stronger and healthier in their physical practice but are also achieving higher levels of technical excellence on stage.”
Monique Gillaspy, Ridglea Hills Elementary School, is the Central Market Chair for Teaching Excellence in Early Childhood Educations. She has a bachelor’s degree from the University of Texas at Arlington and has 13 years of teaching experience. Ms. Gillaspy fosters a welcoming and joy-filled classroom with the goal of having her excitement transfer to her student’s experience. “Laughing with your students, and just taking the teacher hat off for a little bit, is important for students to see too.”
Briana Welch, Seminary Hills Park Elementary School, is the Cook Children’s Chair for Teaching Excellence in Special Education. She is currently pursuing a master’s degree with the University of Texas Rio Grande Valley, has a Bachelor of Science degree from Texas Tech University, and an Associate of Arts from Tarrant County College. With seven years of teaching experience, Ms. Welch believes in honoring each student’s unique abilities. “One of the most impactful strategies I have implemented is a celebration-based classroom model, designed to foster motivation, confidence, and a strong sense of belonging.”
Briana Welch, Seminary Hills Park Elementary School, is the Cook Children’s Chair for Teaching Excellence in Special Education. She is currently pursuing a master’s degree with the University of Texas Rio Grande Valley, has a Bachelor of Science degree from Texas Tech University, and an Associate of Arts from Tarrant County College. With seven years of teaching experience, Ms. Welch believes in honoring each student’s unique abilities. “One of the most impactful strategies I have implemented is a celebration-based classroom model, designed to foster motivation, confidence, and a strong sense of belonging.”Briana Welch, Seminary Hills Park Elementary School, is the Cook Children’s Chair for Teaching Excellence in Special Education. She is currently pursuing a master’s degree with the University of Texas Rio Grande Valley, has a Bachelor of Science degree from Texas Tech University, and an Associate of Arts from Tarrant County College. With seven years of teaching experience, Ms. Welch believes in honoring each student’s unique abilities. “One of the most impactful strategies I have implemented is a celebration-based classroom model, designed to foster motivation, confidence, and a strong sense of belonging.”Briana Welch, Seminary Hills Park Elementary School, is the Cook Children’s Chair for Teaching Excellence in Special Education. She is currently pursuing a master’s degree with the University of Texas Rio Grande Valley, has a Bachelor of Science degree from Texas Tech University, and an Associate of Arts from Tarrant County College. With seven years of teaching experience, Ms. Welch believes in honoring each student’s unique abilities. “One of the most impactful strategies I have implemented is a celebration-based classroom model, designed to foster motivation, confidence, and a strong sense of belonging.”
Christa Martien Chanthavongsy, Mclean Middle School, is the Friedman Chair for Teaching Excellence in Performing Arts. She has a bachelor’s degree from Texas Tech University and has nine years of teaching experience. Ms. Martien Chanthavongsy understands the power of confidence and works to build it in her students every day. “I strive to give students something to feel successful on every single day so that even if they make mistakes, they know they can do something really, really well.”
Kenneth Amos, Polytechnic High School, is the JP Morgan Chase Chair for Teaching Excellence in Secondary English. He has a bachelor’s degree from Delta State University. Mr. Amos spent the last seven years cultivating a classroom where students have a sense of belonging and confidence. “From an ideological standpoint, I believe that every student has all the answers within them… I am just there to curate academic experiences to wake up their inner genius and help them expand their genius in ways they have yet to discover.”
Marie Vinson, Seminary Hills Elementary School, is the Linebarger, Goggan, Blair & Sampson, LLP Chair for Teaching Excellence in Elementary Reading. She has a master’s degree from Grand Canyon University and a bachelor’s from the University of Texas at Arlington. In her six years of teaching, Ms. Vinson encourages her fellow teachers to “stay committed to growth, believe in the potential of every student, and remember that teaching is a journey we take together.
Matthew Rose, Arlington Heights High School, is the Meta Chair for Teaching Excellence in Career and Technical Education. He earned both his master’s and bachelor’s of science degrees from Texas Wesleyan University. With 30 years of experience with FWISD, Mr. Rose believes in the power of the teacher and their impact. “Teaching is planting a seed never knowing if you will bask in the shade of the tree that grows, yet still we sow the seeds. Yes, indeed, teacher is a powerful word.
Jerrett Lyday, I.M. Terrell Academy, is the Sewell Lexus & Infinity of Fort Worth Chair for Teaching Excellence in Humanities. He is pursuing a doctorate degree and holds a master’s degree from Texas Christian University and holds a bachelor’s of arts from the University of North Texas. With his colleagues, Mr. Lyday employs an interdisciplinary approach to student learning. “We are not only responsible for teaching students history, but also having them understand art, poetry, literature, philosophy, and a whole host of other forms of human expression. For that reason, literacy has become a major facet of our work with students, and we work incredibly hard to support student literacy in our classrooms.”
Erica Del Rio, Glen Park Elementary School, is the Tarleton State University Chair for Teaching Excellence in Science or Math. She is currently pursuing a master’s degree at Tarleton State University, has a bachelor’s degree from the University of Arizona, and has 22 years of teaching experience. With her students, Ms. Del Rio flips math on its head with a gamified approach. “By integrating gamification and problem-based learning, I help students move beyond rote procedures to develop true conceptual understanding.
Joe Gonzales III, Rufino Mendoza Elementary School, is the Texas Health Chair for Teaching Excellence in Health and Physical Education. He has a bachelor’s degree in Sport Science with an emphasis in Physical Education from Texas State University. From his creation of the school’s Walking School bus and Running Club to organizing an annual Skate Night and partnering with the Colgate Bright Smiles program, Mr. Gonzales understands the importance of fostering community. “Physical Education teachers interact with every student in the school, which means no two days are alike. Some classes may feel easier than others but reflecting on what works and what doesn’t is essential for growth. Treat each day as a learning opportunity and always strive to do your best.
2022-2023
2022-2023 Winners
Susan Anne Alexander | Greenbriar Elementary School
Susan Anne Alexander, Greenbriar Elementary School, is the Kroger Chair for Teaching Excellence in Special Education. She has a master’s degree from the University of North Texas, bachelor’s degree from Texas A&M Commerce, and eight years of teaching experience. Susan loves watching her students grow and be successful.
Karina Al Rashdan | Leadership Academy at Mitchell Boulevard Elementary School
Susan Anne Alexander, Greenbriar Elementary School, is the Kroger Chair for Teaching Excellence in Special Education. She has a master’s degree from the University of North Texas, bachelor’s degree from Texas A&M Commerce, and eight years of teaching experience. Susan loves watching her students grow and be successful.
Ann-Denise Anderson | School Polytechnic High School
Ann-Denise Anderson, Polytechnic High School, is the Angela D. Paulos Chair for Teaching Excellence in Visual Arts. She has a master’s degree from Western Governors University, a bachelor’s degree from Arizona State University, and 15 years of teaching experience. Her teaching philosophy comes from the heart.
Victoria Bergman | Burton Hill Elementary
Victoria Bergman, Burton Hill Elementary, is the Lockheed Martin Chair for Teaching Excellence in Elementary Math & Science. She has a bachelor’s degree from Tarleton State University and 11 years of teaching experience. Victoria builds relationships with students and connects what they learn in class to the real world.
Saskia Borjas | Benbrook Middle-High School
Saskia Borjas, Benbrook Middle-High School, is the University of North Texas Health Science Center at Fort Worth Chair for Teaching Excellence in Secondary Science. She has a B.S. in Life Sciences from Kansas State University and has taught 10 years. Saskia believes the key to success in the classroom is relationships.
Stephanie Smith Delgadillo | Riverside Middle School
Stephanie Smith Delgadillo, Riverside Middle School, is the Lockheed Martin Chair for Teaching Excellence in Middle School STEM. She has master’s degrees from UT Austin and UT Arlington, a bachelor’s degree from Langston University, and 22 years of teaching experience. Stephanie guides her students in school and in life.
Mario Flores | Benbrook Middle-High School
Mario Flores, Benbrook Middle-High School, is the Blue Zones Project Chair for Teaching Excellence in Health & Physical Education (secondary). He has a bachelor’s degree from Texas Christian University and has taught 28 years. Mario builds relationships with his students. He says this creates a positive classroom atmosphere where students feel safe to take risks, express themselves, share ideas and engage in their learning.
Billie D. Hainsey | Meadowbrook Middle School
Billie D. Hainsey, Meadowbrook Middle School, is the Sewell Lexus & Infiniti of Fort Worth Chair for Teaching Excellence in Humanities. She has a bachelor’s degree from Kansas State University and 18 years of teaching experience. Billie believes student success comes from building trust, setting high expectations, and providing consistent support and guidance.
Aubrey Kistler | Southwest High School
Aubrey Kistler, Southwest High School, is the Friedman Chair for Teaching Excellence in Performing Arts. She has a bachelor’s degree from Texas Christian University and six years of teaching experience. Aubrey believes education, including choral music, gives every child an opportunity for a new trajectory of life.
James Korn | Arlington Heights High School
James Korn, Arlington Heights High School, is the TTI, Inc. Chair for Teaching Excellence in Secondary Math. He has a master’s degree from Northcentral University and a bachelor’s degree from the University of Puget Sound. He has nine years of teaching experience. James builds relationships with students in a culture of trust.
Mary J. Mosley | Leadership Academy at John T. White Elementary School
Mary J. Mosley, Leadership Academy at John T. White Elementary School, is the Linebarger Goggan Blair & Sampson, LLP Chair for Teaching Excellence in Elementary Reading. She has a bachelor’s degree from UT Permian Basin and seven years of teaching experience. Mary builds strong student relationships and sets high expectations in her classroom.
Evette Y. Mumford | Texas Academy of Biomedical Sciences
Evette Y. Mumford, Texas Academy of Biomedical Sciences, is the Lockheed Martin Chair for Teaching Excellence in High School STEM. Her master’s degree is from the University of Houston-Clear Lake. She has a bachelor’s degree and associate degrees from Lee College and has taught 12 years. Evette builds relationships to help students learn.
Dr. Amber Reeder | Texas Academy for Biomedical Sciences
Dr. Amber Reeder, Texas Academy for Biomedical Sciences, is the Facebook Chair for Teaching Excellence in Career and Technical Education. She has a Doctor of Chiropractic from Palmer College of Chiropractic West, bachelor’s degree from University of California, San Diego, and is licensed to practice in Texas. She has 15 years of teaching experience.
Enrique Rodriguez | Worth Heights Elementary School
Enrique Rodriguez, Worth Heights Elementary School, is the Blue Zones Project Chair for Teaching Excellence in Health & Physical Education (elementary). He has a bachelor’s degree from UT Pan American and has taught 16 years. Enrique’s students play silly games to get serious about health.
David M. Smith | South Hills High School
David M. Smith, South Hills High School, is the Broadway at the Bass Chair for Teaching Excellence in Dance and Theater. He has two bachelor’s degrees from the University of North Texas and seven years of teaching experience. David strives to create a culture centered around community.
Joshua G. Torres | McLean Middle School
Joshua G. Torres, McLean Middle School, is the Chase Chair for Teaching Excellence in Secondary English. He is working on his dissertation from TCU, where he also obtained his master’s degree, and he has a bachelor’s degree from UT Austin. He has been teaching for six years. Joshua works to inspire his students to want to be successful.
2021-2022
2021-2022 Winners
Janet Allen | Young Men’s Leadership Academy
Janet is the Chase Chair for Teaching Excellence in Secondary English. She has a B.A. in Marketing from UT Arlington and has taught in FWISD for 17 years. Janet prepares her students to become active members of society.
Jamie Avalos | O.D. Wyatt High School
Jamie is the University of North Texas Health Science Center at Fort Worth Chair for Teaching Excellence in Secondary Science. She has an M.S. in Physics with Emphasis in Education from Texas A&M University – Commerce and B.S. in Microbiology from Texas A&M. She has taught in FWISD for six years. Jamie teaches science and reinforces skills that students need for any field of study.
Andrea Cantrell | Burton Hill Elementary School
Andrea is the Angela D. Paulos Chair for Teaching Excellence in Visual Arts. She has a B.F.A. in Art Education with an emphasis in Painting from Texas Christian University. She has taught in FWISD for 11 years. Andrea creates a safe learning environment for students.
Nicholas Clark | Arlington Heights High School
Nicholas is the Lockheed Martin Chair for High School STEM. He received both his M.Ed. in Educational Leadership and Policy Studies and his B.S. in Interdisciplinary Studies from UT Arlington. He has taught in FWISD for six years. Nicholas believes in building strong relationships with students.
Ronnie Cope | Trimble Tech High School
Ronnie is the Facebook Chair for Teaching Excellence in Career & Technical Education. Ronnie came to FWISD from the electrical industry. He is a fully- certified electrician and has certifications in robotics and operating systems. He has taught in FWISD 11 years. Ronnie teaches so his students can pass their learning on to others.
Philip Collier | Polytechnic High School
Philip is the Sewell Lexus & Infiniti of Fort Worth Chair for Teaching Excellence in Humanities. He earned his M.A. in Religion in Church History from Liberty University and B.S. in Geography from Sam Houston State University. He has taught in FWISD for five years. Philip reminds students that they are society’s future leaders and makes history relevant to their everyday lives.
Carrie English | Success High School
Carrie is the Central Market Chair for Teaching Excellence in Acquisition of Language. She has an M.Phi. in Modern European History from University of Cambridge (UK) and B. A. in History from Queen’s University in Ontario, CA. She has taught in FWISD seven years. Carrie’s students are immigrants who are learning English.
Angela Ferguson | Lowery Road Elementary School
Angela is the Lockheed Martin Chair for Teaching Excellence in Elementary Math & Science. She has a B.S. in Interdisciplinary Studies from Texas A&M University and has taught in FWISD for 18 years. Angela creates an inviting classroom where students are excited to learn each day because she knows she is shaping future leaders.
Joe Gonzales | Sam Rosen Elementary School
Joe is the Blue Zones Project Chair for Teaching Excellence in Health & Physical Education. He has a B.S. in Early Childhood Education from Texas Wesleyan University and has taught in FWISD 19 years. Joe works hard to make learning fun, whether teaching physical fitness skills or life skills. He engages students by being himself, joining them in exercises and games, and showing that he cares.
Katy Hobbs | Luella Merrett Elementary School
Katy is the Linebarger Goggan Blair & Sampson, LLP Chair for Teaching Excellence in Elementary Reading. She has an M.Ed. in Special Education from Texas Christian University and B.A. in Liberal Arts/Elementary Education from Pepperdine University. She has taught in FWISD for six years. Katy sees teaching as signing on for a lifetime of growing and learning.
Marisol Martin | West Handley Elementary School
Marisol is the XTO Energy Chair for Teaching Excellence in Early Childhood Education. She has a B.S. in Child and Adolescent Development from California State University - Fullerton. She has taught in FWISD for five years. Marisol believes her students can think, work toward, and reach their goals.
Dr. Shawn L. Massey | Young Men’s Leadership Academy
Shawn is the Lockheed Martin Chair for Teaching Excellence in Middle School STEM. She has a Ph.D. in Educational Leadership from Oakland University; M.Ed. in Educational Administration from the University of Mary Hardin-Baylor; and B.S. in Secondary Education from the University of Oklahoma. She has taught in FWISD seven years. Shawn believes each of her students can and will succeed.
Lisa McGlothlin | Rosemont Middle School
Lisa is the TTI, Inc. Chair for Teaching Excellence in Secondary Math. She has a B.A. in Communication from UT Arlington. She has taught in FWISD 13 years. Lisa supports students’ emotional well-being and creates tasks that generate high levels of discussion and engagement.
Kristi Miller | M.L. Phillips Elementary School
Kristi is the Kroger Chair for Teaching Excellence in Special Education. She has an M.S. in Education Specializing in Special Education from Walden University and a B.S. in Psychology from Ashford University. She has taught in FWISD for 10 years. Kristi believes all students are unique and bring something special to their education.
Christen Reyes | I.M. Terrell Academy for STEM and VPA
Christen is the Broadway at the Bass Chair for Teaching Excellence in Dance and Theater. She has a B.F.A. in Dance Arts from Howard University and has taught in FWISD for three years. Christen believes dance teaches self-discipline, advocacy, commitment, responsibility, and life-long ethics. These are all valuable skills students can use their entire lives.
Dr. Emily Saenz | Benbrook Middle-High School
Emily is the Friedman Chair for Teaching Excellence in Performing Arts. She has a D.Mus. in Voice Performance from UT Austin; M.Mus. in Voice Performance from the University of Louisville; and B.Mus. in Voice Performance from the University of Oklahoma. She has taught in FWISD for five years. Emily believes music teaches empathy, literacy, teamwork, attention to detail, self-analysis, thoughtfulness and more.