Grant Winner Killeen ISD

KISD Education Foundation Grant Winners

The Killeen ISD Education Foundation surprised teachers across the district with grants to help bring their classroom ideas to life. I was honored to be included among the educators recognized.

Receiving this grant meant more than simply getting extra classroom funding. It represented the time, planning, research, and creativity I put into finding better ways to reach my students. Teachers often have big ideas but not always the resources to make them happen, so having that support allowed us to create more engaging and meaningful learning experiences.

It was exciting to see educators from 17 different schools recognized for thinking outside the box and working hard to give students opportunities beyond the traditional classroom.

ELPS Review Team

ELPS Review Team

I had the opportunity to help the state of Texas redesign the English Language Proficiency Standards for multilingual learners. Our team closely reviewed the standards, discussed what students truly need to succeed, and worked to make them more meaningful, relevant, and supportive of language development. It was an incredible experience to help shape standards that could impact multilingual students and teachers across the state.

Teachers Prepare 8th Graders for High School

High School Prep Camp

This summer STEM camp gave incoming freshmen a chance to learn through hands-on activities instead of just sitting in a classroom. Students built bridges, windmills, catapults, and water filters while learning more about science, technology, engineering, and possible future careers.

I was one of four Killeen ISD teachers who helped lead the activities, and I loved seeing students become more creative and curious as they tried things they had never experienced before. The goal was not only to help prepare them for high school, but also to get them thinking about college, careers, and what they could accomplish in the future.

EKU Students Honored

EKU Students Honored

Being recognized as one of the Shelby County residents honored at Eastern Kentucky University means more to me than simply seeing my name in an article.

This recognition represents the countless hours I have spent studying, completing assignments, meeting deadlines, and pushing myself to succeed academically. Schoolwork takes dedication, discipline, and sacrifice, especially when you are also balancing work, responsibilities, and everyday life.

I do not always stop to celebrate my accomplishments because I am usually already focused on the next assignment or goal. However, this moment reminded me that my hard work matters. My academic success at Eastern Kentucky University did not happen by accident. It came from staying committed, working through difficult moments, and refusing to give up on my education.

I am proud to represent Shelby County and to have my academic achievement recognized. This may seem like a small newspaper announcement to some, but to me, it represents perseverance, personal growth, and the effort I continue to put into building a better future.