RISING STAR WINNERS

GERARDO VILLEGAS JUAREZ

Charles Graebner Elementary School

San Antonio, Texas Rising Star Elementary

“When I was thinking about what my chances were for being chosen for something like this, it didn’t really seem like my chances were any more special. I’ve only been teaching for four years and I am already sold on this whole system and the importance of what we do.”

Gerardo Villegas Juarez was inspired to become a teacher because school served as a safe haven for him after he immigrated to San Antonio from Mexico in 2000. Villegas Juarez attended San Antonio ISD schools as a student, and returned to the district as a fifth-grade math teacher through the Teach for America program upon his graduation from Texas A&M.

“Education has been monumental in my own life,” explained Villegas Juarez. “The way it has altered my outcome, despite my limitations, continues to remind me what is important: the kids and their experiences while at school.”

Villegas Juarez credits school with helping to cultivate his love of both math and music — passions he continues to share with his students. In addition to formulating Graebner’s fifth-grade math curriculum, Villegas Juarez joined with one of his former teachers to start an after school mariachi program.

LAURA DUNHAM

Clear Lake High School Houston, Texas

Rising Star Secondary

“I believe so much in character education and spreading kindness, and teaching kids how to be better human beings for our society. I am so honored.” Laura Dunham began her professional career as an interior designer, but felt as though she was not fulfilling her purpose. Coming from a long line of educators, Dunham made the career change after realizing she could teach design in a high school setting.

In the classroom, she works to equip students with hands-on skills and content knowledge, while also teaching life lessons and foundational character building strategies and practices.

“Educators in today’s environment must be able to let go of their own personal power and let the students have ownership of their learning,” Dunham explained. “Some of the greatest outcomes have come from putting the expertise of the teacher and the creativity of the student together to create a one-of-a-kind assignment.”

A passionate advocate for the growth and development of all students, Dunham’s influence extends beyond the classroom through service as an advisor for a variety of students.