Houston schools honor long‑time teacher Anthony DeCamillos as 'Hurricane Hero'

The Houston Public Schools board recognized teacher Anthony DeCamillos at its June 6 meeting as the district’s 'Hurricane Hero.' DeCamillos, introduced by administrators and read about by colleagues, told the board he has taught middle‑school social studies, mostly seventh‑grade American history, for 17 years at MMPA.

“Hi, everybody … My name is Anthony DeCamillos. I’ve actually been teaching at MMPA for 17 years now,” DeCamillos said, describing his classroom approach and the pride he takes in student growth. Board members read staff reflections that praised his “engaging and energetic” teaching style, inclusive practices, close collaboration with special‑education teams and ability to motivate students.

Board members and administration noted programs and student successes connected to teacher work across the district: a financial‑foundations course, EMT certification linked with the local ambulance service (Winona Ambulance’s testing support), AP activities, and targeted interventions that produced gains in reading accuracy and seventh‑grade math standards. Speech during the meeting emphasized relationships, professional development and the district’s CTE expansion.

DeCamillos and others were thanked for classroom leadership; the board presented him with a recognition and the meeting moved on to other agenda items. The district said it will continue to highlight staff achievements at future meetings.