TOY Finalists

We are thrilled to announce that Ebonie Ballesteros, an exceptional English teacher at Southwest Public Schools College & Career Preparatory Academy, has been named a Teacher of the Year Finalist for the Region 4 Education Service Center. The winner will be announced on August 1, 2024, during a Facebook Live event.

Ms. Ballesteros has demonstrated outstanding dedication to her students and her profession, earning her the title of Southwest Public Schools’ Secondary Teacher of the Year earlier this year. Her passion for teaching and her commitment to student success have made her a standout educator in our community.

In reflecting on what teaching means to her, Ms. Ballesteros shared, "Teaching is not just a profession; it's a calling. It's about inspiring and empowering students to reach their full potential, fostering a love for learning, and being a guide in their educational journey. Every day, I am motivated by my students' curiosity and their drive to succeed."

Dr. Adams, Superintendent of Southwest Public Schools, praised Ms. Ballesteros's remarkable achievement: "Ebonie Ballesteros has made history as the first teacher from Southwest Public Schools to be named a regional finalist for Teacher of the Year. We are incredibly proud of her and applaud her unwavering dedication and innovative teaching efforts. She embodies the spirit of excellence that we strive for in our district."

We invite the community to join us in celebrating Ms. Ballesteros’s achievement and to tune in to the Facebook Live event on August 1, 2024, to support her as the winner is announced.

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For more information about Southwest Public Schools, please visit www.swschools.org

For media inquiries or additional information, please contact Dr. Keri Fovargue, Chief of Staff

Phone: 713-784-6345 Email: kfovargue@swschools.org