Five educators honored with SHINE Award

Helpful. Funny. Safe space.

These are just a few of the words students used to describe the five outstanding educators who received the Students Honoring Inspiring NISD Educators Awards for the second quarter of the school year.

Melissa Tamagni from Worthington Middle School; Jade Boots from Tidwell Middle School, Dustin Funk from Steele Early College High School; Mallory Higgins from Lance Thompson Elementary; and Jaclyn Welch from Schluter Elementary — were chosen from over 2,000 student nominations submitted from across the district.

“Our educators truly deserve this recognition and so much more,” said Kandle Pierce, Northwest ISD community relations coordinator. “They work tirelessly to create meaningful learning experiences for their students. This award is just a small way to show our appreciation — and it’s even more special because the nominations come directly from the students whose lives they impact daily.”

Students had high praise for all the SHINE Award recipients, highlighting their dedication, creativity, and ability to foster a welcoming environment.

The SHINE Awards will continue to celebrate exceptional educators districtwide at the end of every nine-week period, with students encouraged to submit their nominations.

Check out photos from these memorable moments!