This week, Harris County Department of Education’s (HCDE) Center for Educator Success (CES) announced the recipients of the 2025 R.T. Garcia Early Childhood Winter Conference Awards. New this year, the Rookie Teacher of the Year, Teacher of the Year, Educational Leadership, Distinguished Educator and Lifetime Achievement awards honor early childhood educators for their passion for teaching and unwavering commitment to students.
Congratulations to the following educators:
Rookie Teacher of the Year: Kierra Thompson
Ambassador’s Preparatory Academy teacher Kierra Thompson is the 2025 recipient of the Rookie Teacher of the Year Award. Thompson was nominated for consistently fostering a nurturing and dynamic learning environment for her students. Her nomination described Thompson as having the ability to engage students and create a classroom atmosphere where children feel safe, respected and eager to learn.
Teacher of the Year: Monica Lopez
Stafford MSD teacher Monica Lopez is the 2025 recipient of the Teacher of the Year Award. Lopez is known as an advocate for students with disabilities and is intentional about giving all students a chance to shine. Her nominator said, “To be in Mrs. Lopez’s classroom is to see what it means to love this profession and who it is you have the privilege of serving. She is often the first to arrive and the last to leave our campus for the day, quietly committing to and preparing for excellence without ever seeking recognition or acknowledgement from anyone.”
Educational Leadership Award: Cassie Richard
Spring ISD teacher Cassie Richard is the recipient of the 2025 Educational Leadership Award. Richard was chosen for this award for her dedication and willingness to go above and beyond for her students. Not only is she an engaging educator, but is described as a planner, counselor, event coordinator and student liaison. Richard truly does it all!
Distinguished Educator: Yvette Conde
This year’s recipient of the Distinguished Educator Award is Aldine ISD’s Yvette Conde. Conde is known as the epitome of dedication and excellence in education. Her nominator described her classroom as “a vibrant celebration of creativity and joy, where every achievement, no matter how small, is celebrated with enthusiasm.” Additionally, she is a team lead who is always at the forefront of collaboration, sharing ideas and spearheading school-wide events.
Lifetime Achievement Award: Maria Nevarez-Solis
The recipient of the 2025 Lifetime Achievement Award is Houston ISD’s Maria Nevarez-Solis. With more than 29 years of experience in early childhood education, Nevarez-Solis’ lifelong commitment to improving education is evident in her passion for advocacy, professional development and community engagement. Her nomination said, “One of her standout qualities is her ability to build strong relationships with children and families. She understands the unique needs of each child and strives to create an inclusive and supportive environment.”
These esteemed educators will receive complimentary registration for this year’s 39th R.T. Garcia Early Childhood Winter Conference set for Jan. 25, 2025. The recipients will also be honored on stage at the conference in front of their peers.
Find more information and register for the Early Childhood Winter Conference here.