The United Family and Mrs Baird’s Bread named 12 educators across Texas as December and January winners of their Teachers on the Rise programs, recognizing outstanding educators in both the South Plains and North Texas regions.
South Plains: United Supermarkets’ 15th Year
The Lubbock-area program, now in its 15th year, has received more than 800 nominations this school year from students and families across the South Plains.
December winners from the Lubbock-area program are Tamara Riley of Abernathy Elementary School (Abernathy ISD), Emelia Jones of Dunbar College Preparatory Academy (Lubbock ISD), and Randa Wuerflein of Levelland High School (Levelland ISD).
January winners are Ashley Carthel of Plainview North Elementary School (Plainview ISD), Sara Bading of Shallowater Middle School (Shallowater ISD), and Jennifer Garcia-Frazier of Lubbock High School (Lubbock ISD).
North Texas: Market Street’s Fifth Year
The North Texas program, now in its fifth year, has drawn hundreds of nominations this school year from students and families across the region.
December winners from the North Texas program are Rachel Young of Old Settlers Elementary School (Lewisville ISD), Bridget Shelden of Scoggins Middle School (Frisco ISD), and Michael Wang of Coppell High School Ninth Grade Campus (Coppell ISD).
January winners are Chelsea Lux of Minett Elementary School (Frisco ISD), Francisco Gonzales of Bowman Middle School (Plano ISD), and Daniel Grenier of Emerson High School (Frisco ISD).
Recognition and prizes
Winning teachers in the Lubbock program receive a $100 United Supermarkets gift card, lunch for two at the Texas Tech Club, and a Mrs Baird’s gift box. North Texas winners receive a $100 Market Street gift card, a $100 American Express gift card from Mrs Baird’s, and a Mrs Baird’s gift basket. Students who nominate a winning teacher in both programs receive a $50 American Express gift card. Both programs are sponsored by the Texas Tech Club and Atmos Energy.
Abie Rampy, director of public relations for The United Family, said the recognition is one of the company’s most meaningful community investments. “Our teachers go above and beyond every single day, and it feels great to shine a spotlight on their hard work. This program is one of our favorite ways to celebrate the heart of our communities, and we can’t wait to see all the amazing educators who will be honored in the months ahead.”
Program Director Shane Sumrow encouraged continued participation as the school year wraps up. “We encourage students and families to continue sending in nominations all school year. There is still plenty of time to submit a nomination for your favorite teacher this spring.”
Nominations for both programs are open at TeachersOnTheRise.com.
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