Congratulations to our 2025–2026 CCISD Teacher of the Year Semifinalists!
We are proud to recognize these exceptional educators whose passion, dedication and commitment to students truly shine across CCISD.
Elementary Semifinalists:
Alexandra Villarreal – Berlanga Elementary
Christie Dunnahoo – Fannin Elementary
Denise Caldera – Galvan Elementary
Emily Velasquez – Hicks Elementary
Sofia Gonzalez – Jones Elementary
Brianna Solis – Menger Elementary
Marisela Montalvo – Metro Elementary
Lina Lopez – Windsor Park Elementary
Jordan Sommerfield – Yeager Elementary
Mayela Bayder – Zavala Elementary
Secondary Semifinalists:
Desiree Rodriguez – Carroll High School
Sierra Villarreal – Cunningham Middle School at South Park
Daniel Thorton – Driscoll Middle School
Martha Buendia – King High School
Brittany Queen – Ray High School
Melissa Weber – Veterans Memorial High School
Next, semifinalists will submit an additional set of essays to be reviewed by the Teacher of the Year Committee. From there, three elementary finalists and three secondary finalists will be selected. The 2025–2026 Teachers of the Year will be announced in March.