Across Killeen ISD classrooms, multilingual students are building confidence, strengthening communication skills and discovering new opportunities for their future supported by educators who are helping them thrive in more than one language.
That work received regional recognition as 10 Killeen ISD educators were honored during the fourth annual Bilingual and ESL Support Awards (BESA), hosted by Education Service Center Region 12.
The awards recognize educators and leaders across Central Texas who are making a meaningful impact in bilingual and ESL education through innovation, instruction, leadership and student support.
“This recognition reflects the incredible work happening every day inside our classrooms,” said Eli Lopez, executive director for Multilingual Services. “Our educators are creating learning environments where students feel supported, challenged and empowered to succeed while honoring the languages and cultures they bring with them. We are proud of the difference these educators are making for students and families across Killeen ISD.”
This year’s honorees represent campuses across the district and a shared commitment to helping emergent bilingual students succeed academically and personally.
Two Killeen ISD educators were recognized for their commitment to instructional excellence and student-centered support systems that help multilingual learners succeed in the classroom.
Ana Gonzalez of Killeen High School earned the Cornerstone for Student Support award for her dedication to helping students.
Travis Colston of Robert M. Shoemaker High School was recognized for Data-Driven Excellence in ESL Instruction, highlighting innovative strategies that support student growth and achievement.
Several educators were recognized for creating engaging, innovative learning experiences that help students thrive in bilingual and ESL programs.
Lisandra Morales of Nolan Middle School received the Content-Based Language Instruction Educator of Impact award for designing instruction that strengthens language acquisition while supporting academic achievement across content areas.
Kara Dudley of Reeces Creek Elementary was named ESL Educator of Impact – Elementary, while Sunny Luevano of Killeen High School earned ESL Educator of Impact – High School for their dedication to supporting multilingual learners and creating meaningful classroom connections.
At Killeen Elementary School, Carmen Valentin and Graciela Pedroza were honored as Dual Language Educators of Impact for their work helping students develop biliteracy through dual language instruction.
Killeen ISD leaders were also recognized for advancing bilingual and ESL education through instructional leadership.
Matthew Widacki of Killeen High School was named Leader of the Year for his commitment to supporting educators and students in multilingual programs.
Summer Heidtbrink of Liberty Hill Middle School earned Rising Leader – Middle School, recognizing emerging leadership and dedication to student success.
Jazmin Hernandez of Chaparral High School received Distinguished Leadership in Emergent Bilingual Instruction – Secondary for her leadership in strengthening opportunities and support systems for emergent bilingual students.
The BESA Awards highlight individuals and school districts across Region 12 that demonstrate exemplary service and leadership in support of emergent bilingual students.