(EL PASO INDEPENDENT SCHOOL DISTRICT — March 9, 2026) — They are the mentors who spark curiosity in the classroom, the support staff who ensure our campuses run like clockwork, and the innovators who go above and beyond to see every student succeed.
Today, El Paso ISD is proud to pull back the curtain and announce the 2025-26 Finalists for Teacher of the Year (TOY) and Educational Support Personnel (ESP) of the Year. Being named a finalist is one of the highest honors in the district. Each individual was selected through a rigorous campus-level process, recognized by their peers for their leadership, resilience, and unwavering commitment to the El Paso ISD mission.
"These twenty individuals represent the very best of our district," said Superintendent Dr. Brian Lusk. "They are more than just staff members; they are the architects of our students' futures. From the classrooms of Crockett to the custodial teams at Hart, these finalists prove that excellence has no boundaries in El Paso ISD."
The anticipation will continue to build as we head toward the district’s premier event of the year. The winners in both categories will be revealed during a high-energy, districtwide celebration on Thursday, May 14, 2026. This event serves as a "thank you" to the educators and support staff who serve as the backbone of our community.
2025-26 Teacher of the Year Finalists
These educators have been recognized for their transformative impact on student learning and their ability to inspire the next generation.
Finalists | Campus |
|---|---|
Cynthia Guerra | Bliss Elementary School |
Sergio Blanco | Crockett Elementary School |
Cynthia Mora-Diaz | Guerrero Elementary School |
Ramon Rosales | Lundy Elementary School |
Liliana Gaytan-Pinedo | Sunrise Mountain Elementary School |
Ruby Bullington | Charles Middle School |
Yvette Ramos | Navarrete Middle School |
Shannon Clark | Hartley PK-8 |
Alonzo Vega | El Paso High School |
John Matthews | Jefferson Silva High School |
2025-26 Educational Support Personnel (ESP) Finalists
From the front office to our custodial teams, these individuals are essential to the daily success of our schools.
Finalist | Campus/Department |
|---|---|
Sergio Lopez | Hart Elementary School |
Maria Chico | Tom Lea Elementary School |
Lisa Guzman | Western Hills Elementary School |
Indira Lopez | Zach White Elementary School |
Meghan Burford | Murphree PK-8 |
Charity Smith | Andress High School |
Erika Almaguer | Burges High School |
Guadalupe Sanchez | CCTA |
Veronica Renteria | Custodial Services |
Luis Morales | School Resources |
Congratulations to all our finalists! Thank you for making a difference in the lives of our students every single day.

