Four Spring Branch ISD teachers – Gustavo Avila at Housman Elementary, Marie Casamayor at Ridgecrest Elementary, Jeri Steenson at Bendwood School and Elizabeth Burling at Terrace Elementary – were among a dozen educators across Houston who were surprised and honored by visits from Office Max’s “A Day Made Better” national school campaign.
Each winning teacher won $1,000 in classroom and school supplies ranging from digital cameras to office chairs. Many teachers were stunned by the surprise announcements held Oct. 6 at local campuses.
“Thank you for rewarding teachers,” said Housman Elementary third-grade teacher Gustavo Avila, who has taught at the east side district school for eight years now. “This is the first time that I’ve won something like this in my life!”
“His records are amazing, and he knows everything about every child in his class as he has his own system for charting his students’ progress,” Principal Mary Lou Davalos said. “He knows his kids, where they are, and what they are lacking through his elaborate records. Data certainly drives Mr. Avila’s instruction.”
At Ridgecrest Elementary, Marie Casamayor couldn’t decide if her birthday had come early or if a life-changing moment had appeared at her classroom door. “I saw the balloons and flowers, and I said to myself, ‘Oh, It must be Publisher’s Clearinghouse!’ This is all just incredible. I feel so appreciated,” she said.
Ms. Casamayor has been a team leader for her grade level for the past three years. “She continually sets high expectations for her students and for herself. She is well respected by all staff, students and parents. She is truly a teacher that goes above and beyond the call of duty,” her nomination states.
Other SBISD winners are Jeri Steenson at the Bendwood School and Elizabeth Burling at Terrace Elementary. Miss Burling, a second-year bilingual teacher, has “an innate ability to teach all children regardless of ability,” her nomination states. “We are thrilled that she was selected,” Principal Karen Sanders said.
“Jeri’s devotion and commitment to ensuring the success of her students with special needs is evident in her classroom each and every day,” her nomination said. “She works tirelessly to create a classroom environment that is warm and welcoming so that her young students will feel safe, loved and special.”
Office Max estimates that teachers spend on average of $1,200 out-of-pocket on essential supplies for their classrooms in a typical year. One thousand teachers from across the nation were selected on Oct. 6 to receive supplies valued at $1,000. All were nominated by principals for their passion, dedication and innovation.
To learn more, visit www.adaymadebetter.com.