San Antonio, Texas, October 17, 2025
News Summary
Myriam Gonzalez, a dual-language teacher at Sarah King Elementary School in San Antonio, Texas, has been honored as a finalist for the Texas Elementary Teacher of the Year. Her unique teaching methods foster inclusivity by allowing students to choose their greetings in the classroom. Having transitioned from the now-closed Storm Elementary, Gonzalez is committed to empowering bilingual students and engaging parents with updates in both English and Spanish. With a 100% goal achievement rate among her dual-language students, her dedication continues to inspire the educational community.
San Antonio, Texas – Myriam Gonzalez, a dedicated dual-language teacher at Sarah King Elementary School, has been recognized as a finalist for the Texas Elementary Teacher of the Year by the Texas Association of School Administrators (TASA). Gonzalez’s innovative teaching approach includes allowing students to choose their greetings before entering the classroom, fostering an inclusive learning environment.
Having transitioned from Storm Elementary, which closed last summer, Gonzalez has worked diligently to adapt to her new community. She is especially committed to empowering bilingual students and engaging parents by providing updates in both English and Spanish. Her efforts have resulted in a remarkable 100% goal achievement rate among dual-language students at her school.
In addition to Gonzalez, other finalists for the Texas Teacher of the Year include Pooja Mulgaonker from the Austin Independent School District and Vickie Wright from Clear Creek Independent School District. Mulgaonker, with 20 years of experience in special education, has pioneered the establishment of sensory rooms and summer camps aimed at enhancing educational experiences for her students. Meanwhile, Wright highlighted the multifaceted roles teachers play, likening their responsibilities to those of a mother, counselor, and best friend.
The winners of the Texas Teacher of the Year will be unveiled on October 17 at the Kalahari Resort & Conventions. In preparation for the announcement, Carlos Perez, a social studies teacher at Judith A. Resnik Middle School, has also received recognition as a finalist. He was awarded a year’s supply of free Dunkin’ coffee and celebrated by students who organized a special event featuring performances from the school’s jazz band and custom donuts adorned with his image. Currently, Perez is pursuing a doctorate in education, focusing on bilingual education and dyslexia.
All three finalists represent a commitment to excellence in teaching and a dedication to their respective schools and students. Myriam Gonzalez underscored the importance of bridging the language gap and promoting bilingual abilities as unique talents within her student population.
To be recognized for the Texas Teacher of the Year award, educators must first be honored as Teacher of the Year at their individual schools, progressing through district and regional evaluations. The awards ceremony for the secondary level Texas Teacher of the Year is also expected to take place later this week.
Finalists Overview
– Myriam Gonzalez, Sarah King Elementary School, recognized for inclusive teaching methods and bilingual education.
– Pooja Mulgaonker, Austin Independent School District, specializing in special education and sensory-friendly initiatives.
– Vickie Wright, Clear Creek Independent School District, focusing on the diverse roles educators adopt within the classroom.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
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Who is Myriam Gonzalez?
Myriam Gonzalez is a dual-language teacher at Sarah King Elementary School who has been recognized as a finalist for the Texas Elementary Teacher of the Year by the Texas Association of School Administrators (TASA.
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What teaching approach does Gonzalez use?
Gonzalez allows her students to choose their greetings before entering the classroom, promoting an inclusive environment.
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What is the status of Gonzalez’s students’ achievement rates?
Gonzalez has contributed to a 100% goal achievement rate among dual-language students at her school.
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Who are the other finalists for the Texas Teacher of the Year?
Other finalists include Pooja Mulgaonker from Austin Independent School District and Vickie Wright from Clear Creek Independent School District.
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What is Pooja Mulgaonker’s area of specialization?
Pooja Mulgaonker has been teaching special education for 20 years and has established sensory rooms and summer camps for her students.
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When will the winners of the Texas Teacher of the Year be announced?
The winners of the Texas Teacher of the Year will be announced on Oct. 17 at the Kalahari Resort & Conventions.
