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Leander ISD Educational Excellence Foundation (LEEF)P.O. Box 218, Leander, TX 78646(512) 570-0027 | info@leeftx.org

facebook/leeftx @leefstrong

Recognizing outstanding Leander ISD graduates and the teachers most influential in their academic careers.

The Leander Educational Excellence Foundation (LEEF) is a 501(c)(3) non-profit organization established in 2007 dedicated to enriching the educational experience by providing opportunities, cultivating success, and building community within the Leander Independent School District. We belive in a future where the needs of all Leander ISD students and staff are met.

Jennifer Williams, President ..................................................Cedar Park Regional Medical CenterShannon Darby, VP of Employee Giving ................................................LISD, Mason ElementaryCrystal Smith, VP of Development ..................................................................A+FCU Cedar ParkJeff Kikel, VP of Finance ......................................................................................T-Werx CoworkingElexis Grimes, Ex Officio ...............................................................................LISD Board of TrusteeBruce Gearing, Ph.D., Ex Officio ................................................................... LISD SuperintendentKristen Huguley ..........................................................................................LEEF Executive DirectorColeen Brighton ..........................................................................LEEF Operations & DevelopmentShelly Penney ................................................................................... LEEF Administrative AssistantDenise Seiler ........................................................................................................ Community ImpactDevin Williamson.....................................................................................................Raba Kistner, Inc.Don Hisle ......................................................................................... Retired LISD Board of TrusteesEric Boyce ............................................................................................ BKA Wealth Consulting, Inc.Jamie Blankinship ............................................................... Randolph Brooks Federal Credit UnionJana Pickett ..........................................................................................................................KidStrongJoe Ciccarelli..........................................................................................................Retired LISD StaffKara Downing ............................................................................................................................GoogleKatie Perkins ..................................................................................................St. David’s Health CareKevin Hodges .............................................................................................................................GoogleLucas Janda ........................................................................................ Live Oak Public Finance, LCCMarisa Jarmon ...............................................................................................American ConstructorsMary Dale ....................................................................................................The Mary Dale Law FirmMilly Harris .......................................................................................................................... Dell EMCNikki Case ........................................................................................... THRIVE Affordable Vet CareRachelle Grossman .......................................................................................................N2 PublishingRoman Escamilla ....................................................................................Austin Community CollegeRichard Fowler ................................................................................................................Realty AustinSara Jahadi ................................................................................................. ChiroFit Wellness CenterSean Connor .......................................................................................................Pfluger & Associates

Bariatric Weight Loss SurgeryCardiology Services with Interventional CatheterizationCardiac and Pulmonary RehabilitationEmergency ServicesFamily Imaging CenterGeneral SurgeryGynecology

Intensive Care UnitJoint & Spine CenterLevel II NICUMaternity Services featuring Labor & Delivery Suites and homelike amenities (Wi-Fi, iPod® docking station, Tempur-Pedic® bed, cozy rocker recliner and more)Medical/Surgical ServicesNeurology

Nuclear MedicinePhysical Therapy & RehabilitationRobotic-Assisted SurgerySleep MedicineUrologyVascular SurgeryWound CareHealthy WomanSenior Circle

ADVANCED MEDICAL CARE. RIGHT HERE AT HOME.At Cedar Park Regional Medical Center, our goal is to provide comprehensive services that anticipate your needs and exceed your expectations every day. From our 30-Minutes-or-Less E.R. Service Pledge* to our robotic-assisted surgery, we are committed to your family’s quality healthcare.

Choose Cedar Park Regional Medical Center.

1401 Medical Parkway512-528-7000

CedarParkRegional.com

*A physician, physician assistant or nurse practitioner is committed to working diligently to have you initially seen within 30 minutes of your arrival. If you are experiencing a medical emergency, call 911.

BOARD OF DIRECTORS

Thank you to everyone for helping us make this year’s event a virtual experience — parents and family members, students, educators, LEEF partners, LISD Board of Trustee members, principals and community leaders — for helping us celebrate outstanding teachers and the rising stars they have taught, guided, cheered and challenged through their time in Leander ISD.

Welcome ................................. Bruce Gearing, Ph.D., Superintendent, LISD

Message for Student & Teacher Honorees .............................. School Principals

John Sloan, Cedar Park High SchoolArturo Lomeli, Glenn High School

Chris Simpson, Leander High SchoolBarbara Spelman, New Hope High School

Christine Simpson , Rouse High SchoolCharlie Little, Vandegrift High SchoolPaul Johnson, Vista Ridge High School

Messages for Teacher Honorees ....................................... Student Honorees

Closing Remarks ...................... Kristen Huguley, Executive Director, LEEF

APRIL 28, 2020

THANK YOU!TO OUR 2020 STAR BANQUET SPONSORS

A+ Federal Credit UnionCareNow Urgent CareDell EMCFields & AssociatesGoogleH-E-B | H-E-B Tournament of Champions

Indeco

Ortho360McCreary Veselka Bragg & Allen P.C.

Park Place | Land Rover North AustinPBK

St. David’s | Emergency Center Leander

CEDAR PARKHIGH SCHOOL

ALYSON JIA HONORING STEVE WESSELS

CAROLYNN SOLORIO HONORING CHRIS JOHNSON

HANNAH DENNIS HONORING KATIE TRAVIS

RAJIV BHAT HONORING MATT RINN

YE WON LEE HONORING CHRISTOPHER OLIVER

Vista Ridge High School

Alyson Jia

Intended College: University of Texas at Austin | Engineering

Extracurricular Activities: Band, National Honor Society, Mu Alpha Theta, Science Na-tional Honor Society

Achievements: National Merit Finalist, 2019 TMEA All-State Orchestra, AP Scholar with Distinction

“Sometimes, you get lucky and meet someone who not only teaches you a skill but also teaches you about life. I am fortunate enough to have known a person like this in Mr. Wessels, and even more fortunate to have spent three years as his student. His expertise and penchant for jokes make class time invaluable and conversations with him memorable. Mr. Wessels always encourages us to settle for nothing less than our best, and I know I speak for many others when I say that I will miss his incredible wisdom and positive outlook on life. Even though I do not plan on pursuing music in college, I will leave high school more confident in myself and my ability to navigate everything life has to offer, in large part due to the lessons of this wonderful person - Mr. Wessels.”

- Alyson Jia

Intended College: Savannah College of Art and Design | Industrial Design

Extracurricular Activities: Varsity Golf

Achievements: Varsity Girls Golf: Most Valuable Player (3x), Varsity Girls Golf: Captain, Holds Lowest Scoring Record, All District Team 2018-2019, SCAD Athletic Scholarship, Russ Munsch Scholarship

“During my most stressful year of high school (junior year), Mrs. Dougharty was always my shoulder to lean on. I came to her room seemingly every rangertime and let my troubles go for 40 minutes. She has continuously been supportive of both my golf and art endeavors in every way. I cannot thank her enough for allowing me to find a safe space in art and always having advice to give. Seeing her come support me at signing day brought the biggest smile to my face and her love for her students shines through in everything she does.”

- Zayla White

Zayla WhiteTEACHER HONOREE: KATY DOUGHARTY

VRHS | ARTTEACHER HONOREE: STEVE WESSELS

CPHS | BAND DIRECTOR

Cedar Park High School

Intended College: University of Texas at Austin | Business, Finance

Extracurricular Activities: DECA, NHS, Band

Achievements: Texas DECA State Officer, Texas DECA Scholarship, UIL 6A State Marching Band Champions

“Mr. Gil, also known as my bro, has been one of the most hardworking, dedicated, and genuine teachers that I’ve ever been taught by. This is the 7th (and final) year that I’ve been under his instruction, and I’m blessed to say that he has helped shape me into who I am today. His love and care for all of his students go unnoticed as he comes in early and stays late almost every single day! There are not enough words to say about Mr. Gil; he is easily one of the most influential teachers that I’ve met and has provided me with authentic life lessons inside and outside of school. I’ve had the privilege of learning from Mr. Gil for the past seven years, and I will never forget the memories and lessons that I’ve shared with him. Thank you for every single thing, Mr. Gil, you are the BEST!”

- Parth Parikh

Parth Parikh

Cedar Park High School

Carolynn Solorio

Intended College: University of Texas at Austin | Government, Mexican American Studies

Extracurricular Activities: National Honor Society, Spanish Honor Society, English Honor Society, Spanish Club, Central Texas Model UN, Texas Model Organization of American States, Pan-american Student Forum, Capstone

Achievements: AP Scholar with Distinction, Girls State 2019 Representative, Teacher Recognition Award

“Everyday from kindergarten through my fifth grade year, I would stare down the clock and anticipate each minute until I was excused for QUEST. Of course, my initial excitement stemmed from an excessive use of duct tape (what kid wouldn’t love that?!). Yet, I would always find myself running toward the class portable to find solace instead in my teacher, Mrs. Johnson. I was bratty, loud, and what I now recognize as a complete and utter handful, but that didn’t seem to scare Mrs. Johnson. For that, I am forever grateful. Not only did Mrs. Johnson guide me through multiple personal difficulties I experienced during that time, but she became the brightest part of my day. She would provide me and my peers with thoughtful, exciting curriculum that tested our creativity- and encouraged our curiosity. I’ll never forget constructing a robot from recycled materials, building a put-put golf course from cardboard, or writing and performing a murder-mystery from the perspective of a CSI Agent. To this day, I still

maintain that the missing McDonald’s toy resides somewhere deep beneath the Naumann campus. Mrs. Johnson truly embodies what it means to be an educator. She goes to extreme lengths to ensure each of her students is included and valued, and encourages quirky thinking and ‘out-of-the-box’ strategies. I attribute much to my achievement and opportunity toward the foundations she worked tirelessly to create for us. I’ve come to recognize her as family, and I couldn’t imagine having made it this far without her. I value so much this opportunity to recognize a woman who has had such an immeasurable impact on not only myself, but each student who has graced her classroom- I couldn’t think of anyone more deserving.” - Carolynn Solorio

TEACHER HONOREE: HECTOR GIL VRHS | DIRECTOR OF PERCUSSION

TEACHER HONOREE: CHRIS JOHNSON NES | QUEST COORDINATOR

Vista Ridge High School

Jewells Escamilla

Intended College: The Univeristy of Texas at Austin | Plan II Honors andInternational Relations

Extracurricular Activities: VRHS Soccer, VRHS Varisty Soccer, DECA, Student council, NHS, Texas Humane Heroes, Music United , Science Fair

Achievements: National Hispanic Recognition Program, VRHS Varisty Girls Soccer Playoffs 2018, Science Fair State Qualifier 2016,2019, & 2020, Science Fair Regionals 3rd 2016, 1st 2019, & 3rd 2020, DECA state winners 2018,2019, DECA State Finalist 2020, DECA ICDC Qualifier 2018 & 2019

“As a stressed-out junior, I had heard many horror stories regarding AP English 3 from my senior friends. In fact, I can still remember how I had braced myself before walking in the room, ready to eloquently fail and learn how much I would absolutely suck at writing rhetorical essays. And while I definitely struggled with my writing in that class, Mrs.Pollack -according to my own opinion- was one of the few teachers I’ve ever had in my life that made such an intellectual struggle worthwhile. It was her dedication to the subject and genuine passion for teaching English that motivated me, in turn, to keep improving my writing, to find my own voice amidst an ocean of jumbling words. And at the end of the year, I realized how Mrs.Pollack had turned a subject I had dreaded into one that I loved and will continue to love. Without Mrs.Pollack my writing wouldn’t be as strong as it is today- although, I definitely still need to keep improving! I’ll always like to say that Mrs.Pollack not only opened up the world for us to see but she also taught us valuable skills to actually analyze and understand it. And I’ll always be eternally grateful for that. “- Jewells Escamilla

Vista Ridge High School

Intended College: St. Edward’s University or University of Mary Hardin Baylor |Special Education

Extracurricular Activities: PALS, Ready Set Teach, P.A.C.K, STAND

“Since I walked into Mrs. Travis’ room 2 years ago, I was stunned at how welcoming and motherly she was towards her students. It doesn’t matter who you are, you are always welcomed in Mrs. Travis’ classroom. I’ve been blessed to get to have Mrs. Travis’ first period the last two years because I walk in every other morning and get the warmest welcome. Other teachers tend to not notice when you try to hide having a bad day but Mrs. Travis always knows when you need to talk. I am forever grateful for the example she has given me on how I can someday become the best teacher that I can be. She would never admit to being as great as she is but I assure you she is so deserving of this recognition and praise!! Thank you for the level of love and comfort that you pour out to your students; it does not go unnoticed. I hope that as you continue to teach you are reminded of how much of a blessing you are to the staff and students at Cedar Park High School.”

- Hannah Dennis

Hannah DennisTEACHER HONOREE: KATIE TRAVIS

CPHS | FAMILY CONSUMER SCIENCETEACHER HONOREE: AJA POLLACK

VRHS | AP ENGLISH III

Cedar Park High School

Vista Ridge High School

Intended College: University of Pennsylvania or The University of Texas at Austin | Neuroscience

Extracurricular Activities: Student Council (Senior: President, Junior: Vice President, Sophomore: Sophomore Class Representative), Senior Class Secretary, Family Career and Community Leaders of America (Senior: Vice President of Competitions, Junior: Vice President of Peer Involvement), UIL, Science Fair Competitor, National Honors Society, DECA, Red Cross, South Asian Dance Association

Achievements: Student Body President, AP Scholar with Honor, Two-Time DECA International Career Development Conference Qualifier, KVUE News Broadcast Interviewee, Placed 5th at FCCLA State for Promote and Publicize FCCLA, Placed 3rd at FCCLA State for Interpersonal Communications, Future State Competitor at FCCLA State for Hospitality and Tourism, 6th in District Spelling UIL, 7 Semesters of All A Honor Roll, Placed 2nd at Austin Regional Science Fair with Regenerative Tissue, Received Austin Biomedical Honorary Award for Biofilm Cultivation, Placed 1st at Austin Regional Science Fair for Duchenne Muscular Dystrophy through C. elegans

“The first time I ever met Mrs. Kyle was through UIL competitions in my freshman year, and just hearing her passion about science and chemistry urged me to be in her class in the future. As a student of both her Pre-AP and AP Chemistry class during my sophomore and junior year, respectively, I can honestly say that Mrs. Kyle is truly the most driven, engaging, innovative, and charismatic teachers I have ever had. Her aura for her subject and her genuine interest in her students and their achievements/downfalls, topped off with her one-of-a-kind humor, is not easy to find. Anytime I would stumble on a concept in her class - or even in different classes - she would always come to me and guide me to the right path, and her generosity and authentic advice is something I am extremely thankful for. As a senior, I still see her every day simply because her room is where my mind heads first without any hesitation. Mrs. Kyle embodies a pursuit of excellence, but she makes perfection her own by adding her chemical solution of honesty, dedication, and enjoyment in whatever she does.”

- Harveen Kaur

Harveen Kaur

Cedar Park High School

Rajiv Bhat

Intended College: University Of Texas At Dallas | Global Business

Extracurricular Activities: Varsity Debate and PALS

Achievements: 3 Student Merit Awards

“I nominate Mr. Rinn, my Calculus teacher, because he has been a very helpful and understanding teacher to me in my high school career. I have felt Mr. Rinn to be one of the most approachable teachers to my classmates and me, as he lets the students talk about current life and shares his own life stories with us. Also when a student is worried about something, he lets them know that it is not the end of the world and in many cases that he has experienced that scenario beforehand. AP Calculus AB has been one of the most challenging courses I have taken in high school, but still extremely useful and interesting, as Mr. Rinn makes the class fun and laid-back while still expecting highly of his students and telling them so. Mr. Rinn has been a great addition to the Cedar Park High School Math Department and will be an awesome teacher forever to come.”

- Rajiv Bhat

TEACHER HONOREE: LORRAINE KYLE VRHS | PRE-AP CHEMISTRY; AP CHEMISTRY

TEACHER HONOREE: MATT RINN CPHS | AP CALCULUS AB

Cedar Park High School Vista Ridge High School

AJ Brewton

Intended College: Texas A&M University | Pre-Med, Biochemistry and Genetics

Extracurricular Activities: Football, Track, FCA, Star Steppers, NHS, Theatre

Achievements: Inducted as a Brockman Scholar (Scholarship) (2020), AP Scholar with Distinction (2020), State Science Fair Qualifier (2020), Ranger Scholarship Award (2020), Academic All State Elite Team (2019), National Merit Commended Scholar (2019), Inducted into National, Spanish Honor Society (2018), Advanced to Regional Science Fair (2016), Induction into National Thespian Honor Society (2017), Ranger Pride Award through Vista Ridge Football Team (2016)

“Coach Sim has been the best teacher that I have had the pleasure to learn under. She has always pushed me to be the best that I can be and refused to accept anything less than my best. As my Calculus teacher, she treated me more like a player. I appreciated the praise when I performed well and the signs of disappointment when I underperformed because she knew I could do better. Her support not only led me in Calc but also extended past her intended teaching subject to reach not only my college search but also other AP course work and research projects. She guided me through what I believe to be the hardest class at Vista and prepared me for success in and outside the classroom. Whether it be through lessons, letters of recommendation, or just ranting conversations about my other classes, she has always been of assistance in anything I could need. She goes well above what any teacher is expected to accomplish in a student and for that, I will be ever grateful. I hope that one day I can make an impact in those around me that mirrors the positive influence Coach Sim has in all her students.”

- AJ Brewton

Ye won Lee

Intended College: University ofTexas at Austin | Computer Science

Extracurricular Activities: Mu Alpha Theta, Math UIL, Science Honor Society, Mu-sic Eunited, National Technical Honor Society, Computer Science UIL, English Honor Society

Achievements: Advanced to State for Math UIL Number Sense Team

“Mr. Oliver had a big impact on my decision to major in computer science. Not only did he expose us to interesting topics and information that we can’t learn from a usual school curriculum, but also coached us and guided us through the UIL Computer Science practice. After exploring the real world applications of computer science through his class, my passion and love for computer science grew.”

- Yewon Lee

TEACHER HONOREE: CHRISTOPHER OLIVER CPHS | COMPUTER SCIENCE III

TEACHER HONOREE: MEGAN SIMONEAU VRHS | AP CALCULUS BC

VISTA RIDGEHIGH SCHOOL

AJ BREWTON HONORING MEGAN SIMONEAU

HARVEEN KAUR HONORING LORRAINE KYLE

JEWELLS ESCAMILLA HONORING AJA POLLACK

PARTH PARIKH HONORING HECTOR GIL

ZAYLA WHITE HONORING KATY DOUGHARTY

GLENNHIGH SCHOOL

GABRIEL PACE HONORING MELODY MORTON

JOSIAS GOMEZ HONORING JEREMY BILLEAUD

KAITLYN CARMONA HONORING LINDSAY METCALF

KYLEN WELCH-PORTER HONORING KATIE REEVES

LOLA JOBI HONORING OLIVIA RODRIGUEZ

Vandegrift High School

Intended College: Texas Tech University | Music, Pre-Med

Extracurricular Activities: Choir and Theatre

“Mrs. Fisher has been very influential throughout my high school career. She was always there to help me navigate the confusing process of college applications. Mrs. Fisher was more than happy to read over my college essay, help me create a strong resume, and even write a letter of recommendation with short notice. Not only did she make sure I had a competitive application, but she pushed me to take classes that challenged me, and that really prepared me for college. At the beginning of my senior year, I had to have my schedule changed. Instead of putting me in a filler class that I didn’t want to take, she was able to get me in as a student aide. Without Mrs. Fisher’s help, I probably wouldn’t have been near as prepared for the future as I am now, and I

definitely wouldn’t have been as successful academically.”

- Samuel Smoot

Samuel SmootGabriel Pace

Intended College: Austin Community College

Extracurricular Activities: Theater and Debate

Achievements: A-B Honor Role, Director, Theater Student

“I’m grateful for being chosen for this event. Upon receiving this, I was told I was an inspiring or exceptional student. I chose Morton not only as an apology for constantly arguing with her or a thank you for giving me the opportunity to do a senior directed show, but as an example for what teachers are to the world to our future kids. To me school wasn’t easy, academics has never been a challenge, it was having to care about school when I didn’t even know how I was getting home that day, or if I’d see my dad sober that day every day for 3 years of high school instead of getting shaped into a man by a household I was thrown into the fight of adulthood not wanting to rely on others cause I felt as they we’re only temporary. Just like the school I went to or the bed I slept in. I had already lost so much that if I just focused on the fact that eventually it was going to leave me. But on the day I did lose my home the SRO and Thomas informed me of the hospitalization of my mother and the arrest of my father. The night before I came into my house to the sound of a fight at 4am cause I would rather have slept on a bench than go home. I thought I’d never have consistency in a home, In the all-knowing head of a 16 year old, I was so sure that I’d never be a kid. I had already lost the chance. Morton thought otherwise, gave me a reason with theater to stay in school. Sometimes it’s not about the drive to teach, but the ability to be a human that makes you exceptional in your field. Morton taught me this, I hope we can all learn from this. Thank you Melody Morton for being a place where kids can feel safe.”

- Gabriel Pace

Glenn High School

TEACHER HONOREE: MELODY MORTON GHS | THEATER DIRECTOR

TEACHER HONOREE: JENNIFER FISHER VHS | SCHOOL COUNSELOR

Vandegrift High School Glenn High School

E Ching Ryan Leung

Intended College: University of Texas at Austin or University of Southern California | Health Science

Extracurricular Activities: Pop Culture Club (Founder & President), LEGO Club, PSAT Team

Achievements: QuestBridge National College Match Finalist, Jack Kent Cooke Foun-dation College Scholarship Semifinalist, St. David’s Neal Kocurek Scholarship Semi-finalist, Rotary Youth Leadership Awards, National Merit Commended Scholar, AP Scholar with Honor, All A Honor Roll, Acceptance to UT Austin’s College of Natural Sciences Honors Program

“I’m so grateful to have been selected for recognition as a LEEF STAR Student this year, and I’m honored to extend my sincere thanks and appreciation to Mr. Schocken for his dedication to education and to his students. Mr. Schocken is not only a knowledgeable teacher but also has a real love for the subjects he teaches. He has put in tremendous efforts to make his classes informative and engaging, and successfully made one of the toughest science courses I took in high school more enjoyable. I’ve left every lesson feeling excited about what I’ve learned because he truly made learning science fun! Additionally, Mr. Schocken often stayed late at school to help us prepare for our tests. He also responded to my emails promptly, even outside of school hours. He’s been an amazing friend, mentor, educator, and source of inspiration. He encouraged me to reach my goal and assured me that I could do it if I set my mind to it. Mr. Schocken’s genuine love for teaching along with his warm heart, brilliant mind, and caring personality are what inspired my passion for science. I’m extremely grateful to have had such an awesome teacher like him.” - E Ching Ryan Leung

Josias Gomez

Intended College: Texas Tech University | Music Education

Extracurricular Activities: Marching Band Drum-Line, Spanish Honors SocietyTreasurer and Officer, Wind Ensemble

Achievements: State marching contest, band leadership team, All AP classes every year

“Mr. Billeaud was my assistant principal at Leander middle school when I was in the 8th grade. At the time I was a troubled kid, getting into fights and skipping classes. Every-time I needed support Mr. Billeaud was there to assist me in anything I needed, from taking me to the weight room to release my anger, to talking things through, to always being available when I needed him. Whenever I hit high school the grades hit me and I failed, but I always remembered all the times me and Mr. Billeaud talked. I got my life together my sophomore year and started getting better grades and Mr. Billeaud wisdom and help always stuck with me, if it weren’t for educators like him I wouldn’t be in the position I am today.”

- Josias Gomez

TEACHER HONOREE: JEREMY BILLEAUD GHS | ATHLETIC FACILITIES COORDINATOR

TEACHER HONOREE: JOHN SCHOCKEN VHS | PLTW MEDICAL INTERVENTIONS

Glenn High School Vandegrift High School

Megan Fletcher

Intended College: University of Texas at Austin | Health Promotion and Behavioral Sciences

Extracurricular Activities: Key Club, Fellowship of Christian Athletes, Girls Basketball, Girls Volleyball, PALS, NHS, and C2

Achievements: A-Honor Roll recipient, Girls Basketball District Champions, Girls Vol-leyball District Champions, JV Girls Basketball Captain, Fellowship of Christian Ath-letes Leader, and Key Club Vice President

“Mrs. Spradling is authentic, wise and one of the best educators I have ever met in my high school career. I met her from her position of being in charge of dual credit at Vandegrift. Sophomore year I talked to her about my post high school plans in hope to get some direction. When I approached her, she treated me like an adult. She listened to my concerns, gave me advice and a plan of action on how to achieve my goals. I had never felt so respected by a teacher. Fast forward to senior year, I was able to be Mrs. Spradling’s student aid. Every day she would come out of her office and ask about our weekend or just how life was in general. Her small gesture of genuinely caring about her students does not go unnoticed. Whenever she sees you in the hallway, she will ask how you’re doing or will give a smile or wave. Mrs. Spradling does so much for Vandegrift High School. I am so thankful that I had the opportunity to have a relationship with someone who was there to help me make my dreams a reality.”

- Megan Fletcher

Kaitlyn Carmona

Intended College: Texas A&M University | Architecture

Extracurricular Activities: GHS Grizzly Nation News Team (Teleprompter) and Art Club (President)

Achievements: Varsity Wrestling Letter, Varsity Sports Medicine Letter, Adobe Certification in Adobe Photoshop, Texas A&M Regents’ Scholar, All A Honor Roll for all four years high school, Received 4’s on all art pieces submitted to the Visual Arts Scholastic Event during two-year participation

“Ms. Metcalf had inspired me to push myself beyond my boundaries in art and find my purpose. She helped me find my passion for creating art again during a time when I hadn’t even touched a sketchbook in almost a year from lack of inspiration. Ms. Metcalf is a very kind and understanding person who isn’t afraid of being honest when it comes down to guiding someone in the right direction. She doesn’t sugarcoat things if she feels the truth would lead to a better outcome, which is something a lot of people need when they’re coming of age. She pushed me to not give up on the things I set myself up for, and she was someone I could always go to when I had problems going on beyond the art room. She’s taught me great valuable lessons that I know will be kept close to heart as I get older, and I’m grateful that I had the opportunity to be one of her students. ”

- Kaitlyn Carmona

TEACHER HONOREE: LINDSAY METCALF GHS | ART

TEACHER HONOREE: SARAH SPRADLING VHS | COLLEGE & CAREER TRANSITION COORDINATOR

Vandegrift High School

Emma Alvarez-Roth

Intended College: Emerson College | Stage Management

Extracurricular Activities: Active member in the theatre program, President and founder of the Theatre Tech Club, Active member of the Drama Club/Thespians Society.

Achievements: Awarded a Visionary Scholarship from Emerson College, Inducted Texas Thespian (2016), Outstanding Technical Crew UIL (2017), Honor Crew UIL (2018), Awarded a perfect score/ Superior Rating for competing in Stage Management at the Texas Thespians Convention (2019), Advanced to Nationals in Stage Management at the Texas Thespians Convention (2019), Top 9 Stage Managers in the State of Texas at the Texas Thespian Convention (2019).

“I have selected Mr. Conner as my teacher that deserves recognition because he has been my mentor throughout my high school years. Mr. Conner showed me how to cultivate my creativity in a way I didn’t know I could. As my interest for technical theatre grew, he spent time to teach me each of the aspects within theatre. I eventually found where my passion lay with stage management. Mr. Conner allowed me to make mistakes and showed me that in the moments where your comfort zone ends is where you really begin to grow. Mr. Conner has always been a supporter of my work in the arts and strives to help me learn as a person and a technician every day. Thank you, Mr. Conner, for everything you’ve taught me and continue to teach me.”

- Emma Alvarez-Roth

Glenn High School

Kylen Welch-Porter

Intended College: Northeastern University | American Sign Language Interpreting

Extracurricular Activities: Guardians Dance Team, National Honor Society, Grizzly Ambassador

Achievements: GRIT +3 Award, Guardians Captain (19-20), Guardians 1st Lieutenant (18-19), Guardians Lieutenant (17-18), Danceline AJC Award recipient, Grace of the Guardians, No Demerit Award (2016-2019), TDEA All State Dancer

“From the day I met Ms. Reeves, I knew she was going to play a huge role in the next four years of my life. Before having the chance to get to know me, she gave me the opportunity to be a part of her brand new baby; the Guardians, despite an injury that hindered my ability to complete a traditional tryout. Automatically the love I felt from my team was impactful beyond belief. Through two surgeries, there was never a lack of support from my team and that is all thanks to Ms. Reeves and the morals and values she has taught us from the very beginning. Without Ms. Reeves, I don’t know where I would be today. She has given me a home and a family that I will always have to come back to and will forever cherish. Guardians, my last four years of high school and my life in general would not be the

same without the love, wisdom and support that Reeves gives us everyday. I am so thankful for these past years with Ms. Reeves and only wish that I could stay as a Guardian forever.”

- Kylen Welch-Porter

TEACHER HONOREE: KATIE REEVES GHS | GUARDIANS DIRECTOR

TEACHER HONOREE: JOHN CONNER VHS | TECHNICAL THEATER DIRECTOR

Glenn High School Vandegrift High School

Anesu Chifamba

Intended College: Texas Tech University | Business Management

Extracurricular Activities: Soccer, Brave/PALS

“Coach Villareal or Coach V is one of the best/ influential teachers I’ve had in my school career. He has an energy that I think no other teacher has. I, unfortunately, had him for one year but it was a year well spent. Coach V has many traits that make him stand out from the other teachers I’ve had. The first is that he was able to make his classes informative as well as enjoyable. He has a passion for what he does and it shows when he explains the material. He goes in-depth without being too boring. He knows what to say and knows how to deliver it to the students. The second reason is his love for the students. He loves to have personal, academic or just funny conversations with his students. No matter the day, he’ll always be there to just talk and have a good time before or after class. You can talk to him, he will listen and he’ll give the best answer no matter what. Every time before class, we would stand outside the classroom with another teacher and student and just enjoy the presence of each other. He really makes any moment unforgettable.” - Anesu Chifamba

Lola Jobi

Intended College: Tarleton State University | Chemistry, Pre-Med

Extracurricular Activities: FCCLA, Literature Club, UIL Academics, Future Medical Professions, and Peer tutoring.

Achievements: Tarleton State Honors College scholarships, President’s Guaranteed Scholarships, Gold medal at FCCLA nationals for Job Interview, 3rd place in FCCLA regionals and state under Job Interview, and All A Honor Roll.

“I choose Mrs. Rodriguez because without her, I wouldn’t be where I am today. If she did not push me into joining FCCLA and working hard to fight for what I believe in, I would not be so involved here at Glenn. She listened to my problems, she helped me grow in her culinary class, and she too has grown so much since I have met her. She has worked so hard to be where she is today, and she has done so much to help this school. Even though both of us have not been recognized for our hard work, I am glad that today is the day she is being acknowledged. I am glad that today is the day she is able to shine brightly like she had made me shine when I went to nationals. Without Mrs. Rodriguez, I would have never known I could reach new heights.”

- Lola Jobi

TEACHER HONOREE: OLIVIA RODRIGUEZ GHS | CULINARY

TEACHER HONOREE: MARCUS VILLAREAL VHS | SOCIAL STUDIES

VANDEGRIFTHIGH SCHOOL

ANESU CHIFAMBA HONORING MARCUS VILLAREAL

EMMA ALVAREZ-ROTH HONORING JOHN CONNER

MEGAN FLETCHER HONORING SARAH SPRADLING

E CHING RYAN LEUNG HONORING JOHN SCHOCKEN

SAMUEL SMOOT HONORING JENNIFER FISHER

LEANDERHIGH SCHOOL

ANIYA JONES HONORING AMBER HALL

BRYSON MOORE HONORING ELIZABETH GARCIA

EMILY CASTILLO HONORING MATT KOSTOFF

EMILY EPPERSON HONORING SANDY MORENO

VINCENT SCALAPINO HONORING KASANDRA DIOMANDE

Reilly Heinrich

Intended College: University of Texas at Austin | Business Marketing, Biology

Extracurricular Activities: Volleyball, National Honor Society, National Spanish Honor Society, Track and Field

Achievements: Rouse Scholar (3 times), Ranked #1 in graduating class, Volleyball 2 Time District MVP, Academic All-State 2019, 2018 and 2019 All State

“Ms. Maples has been an incredibly influential teacher to me throughout my high school career. I was fortunate to have her as a freshman for AP Human Geography and as a junior for AP European History. Students are naturally drawn to her because of her radiant positivity, kind heart, and her passionate teaching. In both classes, Ms. Maples went above and beyond to make learning interesting, interactive, and collaborative. She was entirely committed to our growth and went the extra mile to help us in any way possible. Ms. Maples taught me unique ways to learn and study information which I have carried with me and applied to all of my classes and subjects. Especially during freshman year when I began adjusting to the craziness of high school, Ms. Maples helped me implement good habits as a student that have set me up for success. Not only did she teach me so much in the classroom, but she showed compassion and concern for my life in all other areas, checking on me when I was visibly not having the best day and supporting me in my extracurricular activities. Ms. Maples cheered me on during my volleyball games at Rouse and was always there for me when I needed her. She is an overall outstanding teacher who has inspired me, challenged me, and has shaped me into a better person. I am forever thankful for the impact Ms. Maples has had on my life, and I appreciate her investment in my academic success and my personal well being throughout high school. She is amazing!!”

-Reilly Heinrich

Rouse High School

Aniya Jones

Intended College: Angelo State University | Counseling and Guidance

Extracurricular Activities: Amare Outreach, Cheer Manager, Athletic trainer for two years, ASL clubAchievements: Academic All District, Student Merit Award, President of AmareOutreach

“Amber Hall, an amazing person and my cheer coach at Leander High School. I don’t even like calling her my coach, she’s more like a mother to me. Hall had given me an amazing opportunity to get out of my situation of having no friends and nothing to put to my heart into. Being there for me when I wasn’t there for myself. Mrs. Hall will not let you slip in fall when it has to do with grades. Even though many times my grades were struggling, she was in the back of my head

letting me know that I can do it. There should be more teachers and authorities like Amber Hall. Without people like her, my school and district would be on the brink of a disaster. ”

- Aniya Jones

Leander High School

TEACHER HONOREE: JAMIE MAPLES RHS | INSTRUCTIONAL COACH

TEACHER HONOREE: AMBER HALL LHS | HEALTH SCIENCE; CHEER COACH

Leander High School

Nash DeGroat

Intended College: University of Texas at Dallas | Arts Technology, Game Design

Extracurricular Activities: Video Game Club, Mrs. Simpson’s Leadership Club

Achievements: All A Honor Roll, Perfect Attendance, Earned Eagle Scout

“There are quite a few teachers and counselors that come to mind that made a huge difference for me in my years at Leander ISD, but since I can only pick one, it would have to be Mrs. Crownover. She was my Quest teacher at Stiles Middle School for 7th and 8th grades. I learned from her that it’s one thing to teach a subject well, and another to be there for your students. As a Quest teacher, you already know she’s one that likes a challenge, has tolerance for those of us that don’t fit the mold, and has built an appreciation for the outside of the box approach. Those were tough years and she always provided a place of acceptance and validation. She was compassionate and kind but did not baby us, she held us to certain standards. With her there, school was fun, even through the hard work. Her ability to see past the middle school angst and find potential that we could strive to live up to made all

the difference. Every student needs a teacher like Mrs. Crownover that teaches you about the things that create the depth of a person’s character, not just academics.” - Nash DeGroat

Rouse High School

Bryson Moore

Intended College: Texas State University | Business

Extracurricular Activities: Baseball, AVID, Bluebelle Honor Guard, DECA, Lions Joined for HopeAchievements: Academic all district (2019), Dallas Baptist University- $19,000, Abilene Christian University- $50,000, Houston Baptist University- $40,000, Uni-versity of Mary Baylor- $2,500, University of Texas at San Antonio- $5,500

“I have selected Ms. Garcia because she is one of the most selfless people I know. Throughout high school, I have faced many challenges in my academic career such as Spanish, ACC, and many AVID assignments. I met Ms. Garcia sophomore year through AVID because she was my AVID counselor. It was about 2 weeks into Spanish 3 Pre-AP class that I was ready to quit. I walked into her office ready to give up, and she wouldn’t let me. Much to my surprise, she said that she would help me. I said “well I’m going to come in every day then”, and she said “Okay!” I actually did come in every single day before and sometimes after school to receive help in Spanish. This is just one example of how Ms. Garcia has helped me. She has also walked me through college applications during the summer, proof read papers, wrote letters of rec, and been there for me when I just needed to talk. I am beyond thankful for Ms. Garcia, and everything she has done for me!”

- Bryson Moore

TEACHER HONOREE: SHELBY CROWNOVER SMS, FSMS | QUEST

TEACHER HONOREE: ELIZABETH GARCIA LHS | COUNSELOR

Leander High School Rouse High School

Maria Telesforo

Intended College: Rice University | Engineering

Extracurricular Activities: AVID, National Honor Society, Colorguard/Winterguard

Achievements: Rouse Scholar (2016-Present), UIL State Marching Finalist (2017 and 2019), TCGC State Finalist (2019), AP Scholar with Honors, QuestBridge Scholar

“My middle school career began with QUEST. This was only my second year in the program and was not sure what to expect in a different school. However, it was an amazing experience, the projects we did were very extensive and allowed me to use my creativity to portray new information that I researched for my projects. Even when I left the program in 7th grade to join AVID, Ms. Spencer was always very kind to me, and welcomed me back to the program with open arms in 8th grade. I would like to thank her for pushing my creativity to the limits and helping me grow in my thinking skills. One last thing I want to thank her for, is for believing in my abilities, she believed that I would do well in high school and beyond. In many ways, I have to thank her for where I am today. Thank you, Ms. Spencer.”

- Maria Telesforo

Emily Castillo

Intended College: Austin Community College, Texas State University | HealthScience

Extracurricular Activities: PALS, Tennis, Yearbook, Choir

Achievements: A crown award presented by the columbia scholastic press association for yearbook

“I chose to highlight Coach Kostoff for this award because throughout my four years of high school, he has been the most understanding and supportive coach. He does whatever it takes to help his students thrive. He has not only helped me to grow with my tennis career and academics, but he has helped shaped me to be the person that I am today. He loves his students like his own children and will do whatever he can to help us grow as people. I could not have asked for a better coach to stand beside me through these four years. Coach has seen me on my good and bad days and no matter what, he always pushes me to do my best. Thanks to coach, I am more confident in who I am and i got to find a sports team that has been like a second family to me.”

- Emily Castillo

TEACHER HONOREE: KIM SPENCER WMS | QUEST

TEACHER HONOREE: MATT KOSTOFF LHS | TENNIS COACH

Rouse High School

Andre Arteaga

Intended College: Austin Community College | Radiology

Extracurricular Activities: Choir

“Mrs.Justice and Mrs.Rhodes have been really nice, kind and respectful to me and they have gotten me to open up more and overcome my shyness and they have made me feel really welcome to choir with open arms and also has made me feel like I am a part of the RAIDER Choir family. They also have made me feel like I am loved and cared about a lot and that I matter a lot to them and all students in the choir. All the students in the choir have also been really nice, kind and respectful to me and they have also gotten me to open up more and overcome my shyness and they have made me feel really welcome to choir with open arms and also has made me feel like I am a part of the RAIDER Choir family. They also have made me feel like I am loved and cared about a lot and that I matter a lot to them.”

- Andre Arteaga

Leander High School

Emily Epperson

Intended College: UTD, UNT or a Dallas Community College | HospitalityManagement or Human Development

“Mrs. Moreno has helped me strive for success and motivated me when I had very little motivation. She has always been there to listen when I had a lot going on and needed some help with anything whether it be school work or problems in life outside of school. She always looks out for me and helps me to be the best that I can be. Out of all the teachers I’ve had Mrs. Moreno is one of very few that I feel actually understands me and knows a lot about me. Not only is she an amazing teacher but she is an amazing person.”

- Emily Epperson

TEACHER HONOREE: BRENDA JUSTICE RHS | CHOIR DIRECTOR

TEACHER HONOREE: SANDY MORENO LHS | SPANISH

Leander High School

Alanna Mason

Intended College: University of Texas at Dallas | Finance, Business Administration

Extracurricular Activities: Key Club, All Girls Considered, AVID, Choir/Choir Council, Debate, Puzzle Club, Rouse Relaxes, Board Game Club, FISH Club, Chick-Fil-ALeader Academy, Gay Straight Alliance, Latin Club

Achievements: Rouse Scholar (4 years)

“I have selected Mrs. Forsell as my most influential teacher because she has inspired me to follow my dreams. Mrs. Forsell stepped in as a parent for me and helped guide me through the college application process. From choosing a major to actually applying for schools, she has been there for me every step of the way. Mrs. Forsell is constantly checking in and encouraging me to do my best. I would not be the woman I am today if it were not for Mrs. Forsell.”

- Alanna Mason

Rouse High School

Vincent Scalapino

Intended College: University of Alaska at Anchorage | Air Traffic Control

Extracurricular Activities: Varsity Tennis (4 years)

Achievements: 2018 Fall Season MVP, Spartan Award, Lion-Heart Award, Ye Old Long-Shot Trebuchet Award

“Mrs. Diomande is one of the most nice and understanding people I know. This alone can make a teacher great, but this is just the foundation for her other wonderful qualities. She is not only really nice to talk to, but is also incredibly grounded as a person. Conversations about day to day life are two-way, which allows insight into her experiences and what she is dealing with as well. Speaking with her has humanized my image of teachers overall. A teacher like this can allow students to relate with them even more than usual, making the chemistry of the classroom exponentially better. If it’s a bad day, she can tell, and will ask if she can help in the most sincere way. If something unexpected comes up, there is actual flexibility to help the student manage the class, and everything else that’s going on. She knows that the curriculum isn’t easy, and tries to relieve the stress as much as she can. Even though it’s extremely hard to disappoint her, Mrs. Diomande is the type of teacher where doing so, truly hurts the most. I am grateful that someone like her has been in my life.“

- Vincent Scalapino

TEACHER HONOREE: KATHLEEN FORSELL RHS | AVID

TEACHER HONOREE: KASANDRA DIOMANDE LHS | AP ENGLISH IV

ROUSEHIGH SCHOOL

ALANNA MASON HONORING KATHLEEN FORSELL

ANDRE ARTEAGA HONORING BRENDA JUSTICE

MARIA TELESFORO HONORING KIM SPENCER

NASH DEGROAT HONORING SHELBY CROWNOVER

REILLY HEINRICH HONORING JAMIE MAPLES

NEW HOPEHIGH SCHOOL

CAMI PLACER HONORING MONA PARRISH

Z YOUNGGREN HONORING ROBBIN COLLEY

Cami Placer

Intended College: Business

Extracurricular Activities: Sports Med

Achievements: NHHS

“I chose Mrs. Parrish because she helped me in lots of ways more than she could know. Everytime I had a question or an issue, I would come to her and she would always have the perfect solution(s). Mrs. Parrish would always come up with different solutions or plans for me so I could still choose my own path, but just with some extra help from her. She knew all the websites and sources I needed to use for anything, and she knew exactly who to call and who to email for any situation. Most importantly, she would always make sure that I was mentally and physically ready to take the big steps I needed to take to finish highschool. She would always take precautions and make me feel like everything was going to be okay.”

- Cami Placer

New Hope High School

Z Younggren

Intended College: Austin Community College | Nursing

Extracurricular Activities: No Place For Hate, Peyton Heart Project, Venturing Scouts

“Ms. Colley pushes you to do your best. She makes sure that you have everything you need to work (quiet room, computer chargers, the ability to work where you can be most productive, etc.), and helps you with science problems until you understand it. She is also a great person to talk to when you have stressful stuff going on, and understands that every person sometimes gets overwhelmed and struggles to finish work. Ms. Colley also coordinates No Place For Hate and making dog beds for various shelters. She has impacted my academic career by helping me catch up in Physics after several months in a hospital, helping me feel comfortable at school, and helping me learn how to talk to other people/them how to do crafts.”

- Z Younggren

New Hope High School

TEACHER HONOREE: MONA PARRISH NHHS | COUNSELOR

TEACHER HONOREE: ROBBIN COLLEY NHHS | SCIENCE