Canadian Education Foundation board members Courtney Trolinger and Heath Mitchell capped the last day of school last Friday by honoring selected teachers and staff for their many contributions to education.

Heather Saenz and Andy Cavalier were named the CISD Teachers of the Year, and Cavalier received the Passion Award.

“The goal today is to let you know from myself and our board how proud we are of the CISD staff,” said Trolinger, “and to express our heartfelt appreciation for what you do for the kids.”

Trolinger expressed her appreciation for what each honoree has done to prepare and shape our students for the next step, and, particularly, for their willingness to participate in the process of school transformation.

For two year, CISD has been shifting the district’s focus away from STAAR tests and toward new standards of accountability that will give students the skills they need to be successful.

AWARDS

CES Teacher of the Year:

Ana Hernandez

CES Staff Member of the Year:

Jerri-Lynn Throgmorton

BES Teacher of the Year and

CISD Elementary Teacher of the Year:

Heather Saenz

BES Staff Member of the Year:

Janet Gatlin

CMS Teacher of the Year:

Morgan Brady

CMS Staff Member of the Year:

Debbie Hardin

CHS Teacher of the Year and

CISD Secondary Teacher of the Year:

Andy Cavalier

CHS Staff Member of the Year:

Tabatha Moreno

District Staff Member of the Year:

Shaffer Baxter

Superintendent Kyle Lynch introduced the CISD Teachers of the Year: Heather Saenz and Andy Cavalier.

Heather Saenz was recognized as the Baker Elementary School Teacher of the Year, as well as the CISD Elementary Teacher of the Year.

“Heather’s influence on her students over her years in education has no limitations,” said Lynch. “BES Principal Krista Daniel states that Heather inspires all students to learn and works diligently to empower them. Her passion and energy in the classroom is spent helping students learn how to advocate for themselves, all the while modeling and encouraging them along the way. Heather understands the need to build strong relationships to meet the individual needs of her students and creates a learning environment in which they can all thrive.

Ms. Daniel goes on to say this quote by Brad Henry accurately depicts Heather, ‘A good teacher is one who inspires hope, ignites the imagination, and instills a love of learning.’”

Andy Cavalier was named the Canadian High School Teacher of the Year, as well as the CISD Secondary Teacher of the Year.

“You’ve already had the opportunity to hear the things that make him so impactful,” said Lynch. “CMS/CHS Assistant Principal Drew Daniel states he is struck by the way Andy can reach even the most difficult student.

CHS Principal Dr. Lynn Pulliam commented, “From a delivery-of-instruction standpoint, he is as solid as they come, with a very intentional blend of teacher-modeling, explanation, and probing questions. He utilizes technology to maximize effectiveness, regularly recording his lessons in advance so that he is able to spend more time checking for understanding and observing students as they work through sample problems. There is rarely a wasted minute in his class, but as excellent as he is on the instructional side, his true strength lies in his ability to build meaningful relationships with students. Through his daily interactions, he exhibits a compassionate approach that seems to motivate every student who graces his classroom. Students can’t hide in Coach Cav’s class, and they all work hard to live up to his expectations for learning and behavior. Students know he truly cares about them, and they work hard to earn his approval.”