Lancaster ISD proudly announces its 2023 Staff and Department of the Year. The winners were announced during the annual Life is Best When You’re a Tiger Employee Service Awards and Celebration on May 18, 2023.
Dressed in their luau best, Lancaster ISD employees enjoyed a barbecue dinner, games, a photo booth, and limbo ahead of the service awards. The ceremony opened with greetings from Board of Trustees Vice President Ty G. Jones and a welcome from the Superintendent of Schools, Dr. Katrise Perera. Chief of Communications Kimberly Simpson emceed the event, while Chief of Human Resources, Dr. LaBotta Taylor, honored employees for their years of service in Lancaster ISD and individuals retiring from the district.
Lancaster ISD employees with diverse teaching styles and skills have been selected for the 2023 paraprofessional, rookie teacher, teacher, employee, instructional employee and department of the Year. Listed below are the outstanding educators who were honored this year:
Paraprofessional of the Year
Ray Brown
Belt Line Elementary
Ray Brown is a highly respected special education paraprofessional who has positively impacted the lives of many students at Belt Line Elementary. Her dedication to working with the life skills class has been unwavering, and her commitment to helping students with special needs achieve their goals is truly remarkable. Ms. Brown's work with the life skills class has been instrumental in assisting students to develop essential life skills such as communication, socialization, and self-care. She works closely with teachers and therapists to provide personalized support to each student, and her patience, kindness, and positive attitude make her an exceptional role model for students and staff. Ms. Brown and her students were proud to showcase their knowledge and skills at this year's district-wide STEAM Expo. Thanks to Ms. Brown's efforts, the Belt Line Elementary community has a beautiful garden that is a source of pride and inspiration for students and staff alike. Ms. Brown's commitment to her work and students is truly admirable, and she is a shining example of the district’s inaugural Paraprofessional of the Year award.
Rookie Teacher of the Year
Cardolyn Ward
Pleasant Run Elementary
Cardolyn Ward was selected as Rookie Teacher of the Year due to her exceptional qualities and dedication to her students. Ms. Ward joined Lancaster ISD through the district’s road to classroom teacher program, and as a first year teacher, she has maintained a positive attitude and high energy to create an enthusiastic learning environment that captures her students' interest and excitement. She understands the importance of addressing different learning styles, and she incorporates guided reading and hands-on activities to cater to the diverse needs of her students. Ms. Ward's commitment to professional growth is evident through her willingness to implement various procedures and learning strategies, as well as her continuous request for feedback. Not only does she welcome feedback, but she also promptly applies it in her classroom, demonstrating her adaptability and commitment to improving her teaching methods. Ms. Ward's eagerness to learn and her positive attitude contribute to fostering a supportive and enriching educational culture throughout the entire school building, making her a standout first-year teacher deserving of the Rookie Teacher of the Year award.
Instructional Employee of the Year
LaTasha Murry
Director of Career and Technical Education
LaTasha Murry, the director of CTE, has been selected as the Lancaster ISD instructional employee of the year based on her outstanding performance across multiple criteria. As an educator, Ms. Murry has demonstrated remarkable effectiveness in engaging students and creating meaningful learning experiences. Her commitment to student success is evident through measurable outcomes and the notable academic growth of her students. Beyond her individual contributions, Ms. Murry excels in collaboration and teamwork, actively engaging with colleagues and positively contributing to the school community. Her dedication to the profession and her ability to inspire and motivate both colleagues and students within the district is exceptional. Furthermore, Ms. Murry's ability to take on various tasks and develop innovative teaching methods showcases her versatility and commitment to advancing education. These exceptional qualities and achievements make LaTasha Murry a deserving recipient of the Lancaster ISD instructional employee of the year award.
Employee of the Year
Roger Oster
Executive Director of Maintenance and Operations
Roger Oster, the Executive Director of Maintenance and Operations at Lancaster ISD, was chosen as the District employee of the year due to his outstanding performance and exemplary qualities in his role. Mr. Oster consistently surpasses job expectations and delivers high-quality work, demonstrating a strong work ethic that sets him apart. His positive attitude, teamwork, and willingness to go above and beyond contribute to a positive and productive work environment for his colleagues. Mr. Oster's impact on the organization is evident through his leadership, innovation, and ability to inspire others. He has made significant contributions to the maintenance and operations department, ensuring the smooth functioning of the district's facilities. Furthermore, his commitment to professional development and continuous improvement showcases his dedication to personal growth and staying up-to-date in his field. These exceptional qualities and achievements make Roger Oster a deserving recipient of the District employee of the year award.
Elementary Teacher of the Year
Sierra Manning
Rolling Hills Elementary
Sierra Manning, a teacher at Rolling Hills Elementary, has been honored as the District Elementary Teacher of the Year based on her exceptional qualities and profound impact. Ms. Manning's belief in staying true to oneself and recognizing that not all growth is measured by tests resonates deeply with both teachers and students. She encourages individuals to embrace their unique characteristics and celebrate the small victories that ultimately lead to significant achievements. As a teacher, Ms. Manning is memorable, leaving a lasting impression on her students through her innovative and engaging teaching methods. She is highly valued by her learners, as she creates meaningful learning experiences that inspire and empower them. Ms. Manning's contributions extend beyond the classroom, as she plays a significant role in the school and faculty, bringing positive change and fostering a collaborative environment. Sierra Manning serves as an important role model and advocate for the teaching profession. Her outstanding qualities make her the deserving recipient of the District Elementary Teacher of the Year award.
Secondary Teacher of the Year
James Spiller
Lancaster Middle School
8th Grade ELAR
James Spiller, the 8th Grade ELAR teacher at Lancaster Middle School, has been selected as the secondary teacher of the year based on his exceptional qualities and achievements. Since joining LMS in 2018, Mr. Spiller has demonstrated a tremendous concern for all learners, showing a deep understanding of their needs and the ability to engage and inspire them. He actively collaborates with colleagues and various community groups, showcasing his capacity and willingness to work cooperatively for the betterment of his students' education. Mr. Spiller's drive to initiate transformative activities that engage all learners highlights his commitment to innovative and effective instruction. He consistently stays informed about current educational trends and practices, integrating them seamlessly into his classroom. Moreover, his meaningful contributions to education, both within and beyond his classroom, demonstrate his dedication to the field. His innovative and passionate approach to educating all students makes him the perfect selection for the Secondary Teacher of the Year award.
Principal of the Year
Dr. Antionette Mathews
J.D. Hall Learning Center @ Rocky Crest
Dr. Antionette Mathews, principal of JD Hall Learning Center, has been awarded Principal of the Year in Lancaster ISD due to her remarkable qualities and exceptional leadership in her role. As a principal, Dr. Mathews understands the importance of being a visionary leader and the driving force behind academic achievement. Her unwavering commitment to her students and staff is evident through her innovative approaches and dedication to inspiring creativity and innovation among her students. Mathews excels in establishing positive relationships and creating a culture of collaboration, which has been instrumental in motivating and supporting students who face significant challenges. Her ability to maintain a positive and motivating environment despite these obstacles is truly commendable. Dr. Antionette Mathews embodies the qualities of an outstanding principal, making her a deserving recipient of the Principal of the Year award.
Department of the Year
Lancaster ISD Maintenance and Operations Team
The Lancaster ISD maintenance and operations department has been recognized as the Department of the Year in Lancaster ISD due to their exceptional performance and remarkable qualities across various areas. This department, comprising maintenance, operations, transportation, custodial, and child nutrition, has demonstrated outstanding collaboration, innovation, and a steadfast commitment to achieving excellence in their respective fields. Their track record of consistently exceeding expectations and delivering measurable results showcases their dedication and exceptional work ethic. Moreover, the department has shown a strong focus on professional growth, continuously seeking ways to improve and staying at the forefront of their areas of expertise. Their ability to create a positive and supportive learning environment for the entire district further highlights their commitment to fostering success. These exceptional qualities and achievements make the Lancaster ISD maintenance and operations department the well-deserving recipient of the Department of the Year award.
All individual winners received a trophy and a cash prize. In addition, the winning department will be treated to lunch hosted by the district. The Board of Trustees will recognize all staff of the year during the May board meeting.
Thank you to the wonderful sponsors (listed below) who helped make this year’s employee celebration even more special. We are grateful for the community partnerships that allow us to give back to our employees.
2023 Life Is Best When You’re a Tiger Employee Awards and Celebration Sponsors:
- E3
- Enterprise Fleet Management
- MCA (Mobile Communications America)
- Knight Security
- Southwest Airlines
- First United Mortgage Group
- Site One Landscape Supply Stone Center
- TremCo Roofing and Building Maintenance
- LBK Roofing