Congratulations, Texas Elementary Science Teachers!
alliantgroup recently hosted our annual SPARK Award luncheon to recognize elementary science teachers from across the State of Texas. The ceremony was held at alliantgroup’s global headquarters in Houston, Texas.
This year’s SPARK Award winner is Manuel Gonzalez Bert from H. M. Carroll Elementary, a part of Sheldon ISD in Sheldon, Texas. Manuel has taught for over 22 years and currently teaches 4th and 5th Grade science. He also coaches the school’s competitive robotics team and wants to inspire his students to be curious outside the classroom.
Manuel commented that winning the SPARK Award means a lot. “I love teaching science because I love that feeling when kids discover something on their own. Those wow moments – that’s how you know what you are doing in the classroom is working.”
FOX 26 Houston meteorologist Lena Arango served as the event emcee. The judges included Texas A&M mechanical engineering professor Dr. Robert Ambrose, CBS 42 Austin news anchor Adela Uchida, NBC 23 Brownsville meteorologist Chris Ramirez, Baly Projects President Hon. Jacquie Baly, and FOX 26 Houston news anchor Caroline Collins.
Our other finalists
Ritu Gandhi – Morales Elementary School, Pasadena ISD
Xochitl Lara – Zavala Elementary, Harlingen CISD
Robin Beasley – Patton Elementary School, Austin ISD
Guadalupe Villatoro – Harmony School of Science, Harmony Public Schools
Rosa Edwards Harris – Herod Elementary School, Houston ISD
The grand prize winner Manual Gonzalez received a cash prize of $3,500 and each of the five finalists were awarded $1,300. Each teacher was also given $500 to spend on classroom supplies.
Texas State Representative Gene Wu and Frank Gonzalez, on behalf of U.S. Congresswoman Sylvia Garcia, were on hand to present official certificates of recognition to each finalist.
Here at alliantgroup, we focus on supporting and strengthening American businesses and STEM education is a big part of that focus. Each of these teachers is doing an outstanding job showing the significance of science and how it is also fun!
Congratulations to Manuel, and to all of our SPARK Award finalists! Their invaluable work, fueled by passion for teaching and dedication to their students, truly deserves recognition.
About the Author
Candice Garner joined alliantgroup in 2018 and serves as a Community Engagement Associate. She is a proud HBCU grad from Prairie View A&M University. Candice is passionate about giving back to the community and believes sharing our personal stories brings us together. When she’s not showcasing alliantgroup’s work in the community, you can find her traveling the world and trying new foods.
