La Jolla ISD and McAllen ISD celebrate Head Start Teachers of the Year

The Hidalgo County Commissioner’s Court convened on April 29, 2025, to discuss various agenda items, with a significant focus on the Head Start program. The meeting highlighted the collaboration between Head Start and nine school districts, encompassing 28 schools and 145 classrooms throughout Hidalgo County.

The session commenced with a presentation recognizing outstanding educators within the Head Start program. Since February 2011, the Texas Education Agency has mandated that school districts acknowledge their Teachers of the Year. In response, Head Start has initiated a similar recognition for its teachers, who are now all Texas certified. A rigorous selection process led to the identification of two exemplary teachers for the 2024-2025 academic year.

The first honoree was Mr. Jose Reyes from Seguin Elementary, representing La Jolla Independent School District (ISD). Dr. Marcy Sorensen, the superintendent of La Jolla ISD, praised Mr. Reyes for his dedication and adaptability in implementing a new curriculum, emphasizing his commitment to ensuring students are prepared for kindergarten.

Following this, Ms. Yvette Solis Benavides from Sam Houston Elementary, affiliated with McAllen ISD, was recognized as the Pre-K 4 Teacher of the Year. Dr. Renee Gutierrez, the superintendent of McAllen ISD, commended Ms. Benavides for her 23 years of service and her innovative teaching methods, which have significantly benefited students from low-income families in South McAllen.

Both teachers were awarded a $2,000 honorarium and an additional $2,000 stipend for classroom supplies. They will also attend the National Head Start Conference in Columbus, Ohio, in May. The meeting concluded with a celebratory moment as family members and colleagues joined the honorees for photographs, underscoring the community's support for early childhood education initiatives in Hidalgo County.