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Recognition Programs
Silver Star Award
The Silver Star Award is intended to provide appropriate recognition of individuals in the community who have rendered outstanding service to the children and youth of the New Braunfels Independent School District. This award is one of distinction and special honor from the District. After the inception of the program in 1965, no more than three awards shall be made annually.
Current NBISD employees are eligible to be nominated after five years of service to the district. Board members are eligible after serving a minimum of two (2) terms or six years on the Board and having completed their current term. Current Board members are not eligible. Any member of the community is eligible. The Silver Star may also be presented posthumously.
In May of 2025, the NBISD Board of Trustees voted to rebrand the Silver Unicorn Award as the Silver Star Award. This move ensures that all three high schools are represented and that the award’s legacy will continue to grow with the district.
2026 nomination form
Note: The Silver Star Nomination window has closed for this year. The nomination window opens each year in late January or early February.
Recipients of this year’s Silver Star Award will be notified of the results after the March Board Meeting and will be recognized at the April Board Meeting.
Ken Bowen
For more than three decades, Mr. Bowen has been a cornerstone of excellence at New Braunfels High School, leaving an enduring mark on students, colleagues, and the broader NBISD community. As he prepares for retirement, his impact is evident in the generations of Unicorns he has inspired through his dedication to science education and commitment to student success.
Mr. Bowen’s classroom has been a place where students feel both challenged and supported. He has consistently made complex scientific concepts accessible through patience, clarity, and enthusiasm. By embracing new technologies and innovative instructional practices, he modeled curiosity and adaptability while mentoring countless students toward STEM pathways.
Beyond the classroom, he has served as a trusted presence in the science department, offering leadership, sound counsel, and professionalism. He has also shown unwavering support for the school community by attending athletic events and student performances, demonstrating that student success extends beyond academics.
His career reflects integrity, dedication, and excellence. Honoring him with the Silver Star Award recognizes a remarkable educator whose influence will be felt for years to come.
Terry Hardeman
Mr. Hardeman was nominated posthumously in recognition of his quiet, selfless service to some of NBISD’s most vulnerable students. Following the COVID pandemic, he began making regular donations to the district’s SAFE-T Program, which supports students identified under the McKinney-Vento Homeless Assistance Act.
Every other month, he provided toiletries, clothing, and financial support to ensure students could attend school with dignity. During the holiday season, he increased his generosity with an annual $500 donation to help families experience joy and security. In winter, he delivered blankets to keep students and families warm. His giving was consistent, thoughtful, and rooted in compassion.
District staff learned of his passing when his wife, Janice Hardeman, delivered a donation in his honor, sharing that supporting the SAFE-T program had been one of his greatest passions. Accepting the award on his behalf were his wife Janice Hardeman and his daughter, Mindie Burch.
Mr. Hardeman never sought recognition, but his legacy lives on in the dignity and support he provided to students in need.
Brett Riley
Mr. Riley lived a life defined by passion, leadership, and service. A proud New Braunfels native and 1980 graduate, he excelled in football, basketball, and track, earning All-District honors and helping create the beloved “Swarm” tradition.
After attending the U.S. Air Force Academy and UT Arlington, he discovered karate — a passion that shaped the rest of his life. In 1993, he returned to New Braunfels and founded West Haven Academy of Karate, dedicating 33 years to mentoring thousands of students. Over his career, he promoted more than 300 black belts, certified over 50 instructors, and developed more than 20 Master Instructors. A 15-time National Champion and two-time Masters Grand Champion, he inspired generations as both a teacher and mentor.
Mr. Riley also served his community through his church, the New Braunfels Education Foundation, and substitute teaching. He proudly represented New Braunfels as a Wurstfest Opa, attending all 10 days of the festival for 10 consecutive years.
He tragically lost his life in a flood-related accident last June, leaving behind a grieving family and community. Accepting the award on his behalf were his wife, Lois Riley, and his children — McKenzie Riley, Marcus Riley and Austin Riley.
His legacy of service and passion continues through the countless lives he impacted.
Photos from the event can be found in the NBISD Photo Gallery.
List of Past Recipients
For more information about this program, call the Office of the Superintendent at (830) 643-5705 or send an email.
Teacher of the Year
The Excellence Awards is an annual event that recognizes educators and staff members who demonstrate exceptional dedication NBISD. Awards highlight excellence in teaching, leadership, and support services, showcasing those who go above and beyond to inspire student success and embody the district’s values. The ceremony aims to honor the hard work and impact of these individuals while fostering a culture of appreciation and motivation across the New Braunfels ISD community.
 | Elementary Teacher of the Year: Elizabeth Downey Administrators from Walnut Springs describe Mrs. Downey as a highly professional, detail-oriented educator who approaches every aspect of her role with excellence and purpose. She creates an engaging and enjoyable learning environment while maintaining high expectations for her students. Her commitment to the campus vision is evident through her implementation of the Dragon’s Code, with every student in her class successfully memorizing all 20 principles and earning the title of “Code Master.” This accomplishment exemplifies her dedication to ensuring every student succeeds every day. |
 | Secondary Teacher of the Year: Daniel Dunn The New Braunfels High School administration team describes Mr. Dunn as a dedicated educator who exemplifies the campus motto, “Be Good for Kids. Add Value to NBHS.” He builds meaningful relationships with students, fosters a passion for photography in his classroom, and consistently goes above and beyond to support the school community. Through the countless hours he spends capturing extracurricular events, Mr. Dunn provides families with lasting memories of their students’ experiences. His kind demeanor, welcoming presence, and unwavering commitment make him an invaluable member of the NBHS and NBISD community. |
Elementary
Tim Kaufman, Carl Schurz
Jared Tooker, County Line
Kristine Morales, Klein Road
Casey Albarado, Lamar
Legend Point, Danielle Randolph
Jennifer Janecek, Lone Star
Heidi Blancarte, Memorial
Esperanza Cabrera, Seele
Taylor Uecker, Veramendi
Dalia Martinez, Voss Farms
Elizabeth Downey, Walnut Springs
Secondary
Alex Searcy, New Braunfels Middle School
Kyle Polk, Oak Run Middle School
Dawn Ellis, Long Creek High School
Dan Dunn, New Braunfels High School
Glynnis Akin, Two Rivers High School/DAEP/Gateway
List of Past Recipients
Excellence Awards
The Excellence Awards is an annual event recognizes individuals who demonstrate exceptional dedication to NBISD. Awards highlight excellence in teaching, leadership, and support services, showcasing those who go above and beyond to inspire student success and embody the district’s values.
The following individuals were recognized as the 2026 NBISD Excellence Award winners:
- Auxiliary Employee of the Year: Debbie Richardson, Transportation Data Clerk
- Bus Driver of the Year: Kendra Dabney
- Administrative Support Employee of the Year: Jasmine Miranda, Transportation Administrative Assistant
- Instructional Aide of the Year: Kaylene Beltran, Carl Schurz Elementary
- Paraprofessional of the Year: Vickie Hernandez, Accounting Specialist
- Substitute of the Year: Kyle Owen, Long Term Life Skills Substitute at Veramendi Elementary
- Professional of the Year: Carrie Hyland, Director of Instructional Technology
- Instructional Support Employee of the Year: Lauren Shelton, Instructional Technology Specialist
- Nurse of the Year: Ashley Woolsey, RN, Carl Schurz Elementary
- Counselor of the Year: Courtney Allison, Memorial Elementary
- School Resource Officer of the Year: Miguel Tristan
- Librarian of the Year: Melanie Bowen, Seele Elementary
- Fine Arts Educator of the Year: Emily Parrott, New Braunfels Middle School
- Coach of the Year: Brad Molder, New Braunfels High School
- Assistant Principal of the Year: Sara DeLuna, Lamar Elementary
- Principal of the Year: Omar Diaz, Carl Schurz Elementary
The district also recognized two Rising Star teachers:
- Elementary Rising Star: Valerie Buitron, County Line Elementary
- Secondary Rising Star: Nerissa Lane, New Braunfels High School
Duane Trujillo Commitment to Children Award, given in memory of a beloved NBISD staff member who exemplified dedication, compassion, and service. This year’s recipient, Courtney Allison, was recognized for her exceptional commitment to students, community engagement, and leadership.
List of Past Recipients
Recognition Programs
Silver Star Award
The Silver Star Award is intended to provide appropriate recognition of individuals in the community who have rendered outstanding service to the children and youth of the New Braunfels Independent School District. This award is one of distinction and special honor from the District. After the inception of the program in 1965, no more than three awards shall be made annually.
Current NBISD employees are eligible to be nominated after five years of service to the district. Board members are eligible after serving a minimum of two (2) terms or six years on the Board and having completed their current term. Current Board members are not eligible. Any member of the community is eligible. The Silver Star may also be presented posthumously.
In May of 2025, the NBISD Board of Trustees voted to rebrand the Silver Unicorn Award as the Silver Star Award. This move ensures that all three high schools are represented and that the award’s legacy will continue to grow with the district.
Note: The Silver Star Nomination window has closed for this year. The nomination window opens each year in late January or early February.
Recipients of this year’s Silver Star Award will be notified of the results after the March Board Meeting and will be recognized at the April Board Meeting.
Ken Bowen
For more than three decades, Mr. Bowen has been a cornerstone of excellence at New Braunfels High School, leaving an enduring mark on students, colleagues, and the broader NBISD community. As he prepares for retirement, his impact is evident in the generations of Unicorns he has inspired through his dedication to science education and commitment to student success.
Mr. Bowen’s classroom has been a place where students feel both challenged and supported. He has consistently made complex scientific concepts accessible through patience, clarity, and enthusiasm. By embracing new technologies and innovative instructional practices, he modeled curiosity and adaptability while mentoring countless students toward STEM pathways.
Beyond the classroom, he has served as a trusted presence in the science department, offering leadership, sound counsel, and professionalism. He has also shown unwavering support for the school community by attending athletic events and student performances, demonstrating that student success extends beyond academics.
His career reflects integrity, dedication, and excellence. Honoring him with the Silver Star Award recognizes a remarkable educator whose influence will be felt for years to come.
Terry Hardeman
Mr. Hardeman was nominated posthumously in recognition of his quiet, selfless service to some of NBISD’s most vulnerable students. Following the COVID pandemic, he began making regular donations to the district’s SAFE-T Program, which supports students identified under the McKinney-Vento Homeless Assistance Act.
Every other month, he provided toiletries, clothing, and financial support to ensure students could attend school with dignity. During the holiday season, he increased his generosity with an annual $500 donation to help families experience joy and security. In winter, he delivered blankets to keep students and families warm. His giving was consistent, thoughtful, and rooted in compassion.
District staff learned of his passing when his wife, Janice Hardeman, delivered a donation in his honor, sharing that supporting the SAFE-T program had been one of his greatest passions. Accepting the award on his behalf were his wife Janice Hardeman and his daughter, Mindie Burch.
Mr. Hardeman never sought recognition, but his legacy lives on in the dignity and support he provided to students in need.
Brett Riley
Mr. Riley lived a life defined by passion, leadership, and service. A proud New Braunfels native and 1980 graduate, he excelled in football, basketball, and track, earning All-District honors and helping create the beloved “Swarm” tradition.
After attending the U.S. Air Force Academy and UT Arlington, he discovered karate — a passion that shaped the rest of his life. In 1993, he returned to New Braunfels and founded West Haven Academy of Karate, dedicating 33 years to mentoring thousands of students. Over his career, he promoted more than 300 black belts, certified over 50 instructors, and developed more than 20 Master Instructors. A 15-time National Champion and two-time Masters Grand Champion, he inspired generations as both a teacher and mentor.
Mr. Riley also served his community through his church, the New Braunfels Education Foundation, and substitute teaching. He proudly represented New Braunfels as a Wurstfest Opa, attending all 10 days of the festival for 10 consecutive years.
He tragically lost his life in a flood-related accident last June, leaving behind a grieving family and community. Accepting the award on his behalf were his wife, Lois Riley, and his children — McKenzie Riley, Marcus Riley and Austin Riley.
His legacy of service and passion continues through the countless lives he impacted.
Photos from the event can be found in the NBISD Photo Gallery.
Photos from the event can be found in the NBISD Photo Gallery.
List of Past Recipients
For more information about this program, call the Office of the Superintendent at (830) 643-5705 or send an email.
Teacher of the Year
The Excellence Awards is an annual event that recognizes educators and staff members who demonstrate exceptional dedication NBISD. Awards highlight excellence in teaching, leadership, and support services, showcasing those who go above and beyond to inspire student success and embody the district’s values. The ceremony aims to honor the hard work and impact of these individuals while fostering a culture of appreciation and motivation across the New Braunfels ISD community.
Elementary Teacher of the Year: Elizabeth Downey
Administrators from Walnut Springs describe Mrs. Downey as a highly professional, detail-oriented educator who approaches every aspect of her role with excellence and purpose. She creates an engaging and enjoyable learning environment while maintaining high expectations for her students. Her commitment to the campus vision is evident through her implementation of the Dragon’s Code, with every student in her class successfully memorizing all 20 principles and earning the title of “Code Master.” This accomplishment exemplifies her dedication to ensuring every student succeeds every day.
Secondary Teacher of the Year: Daniel Dunn
The New Braunfels High School administration team describes Mr. Dunn as a dedicated educator who exemplifies the campus motto, “Be Good for Kids. Add Value to NBHS.” He builds meaningful relationships with students, fosters a passion for photography in his classroom, and consistently goes above and beyond to support the school community. Through the countless hours he spends capturing extracurricular events, Mr. Dunn provides families with lasting memories of their students’ experiences. His kind demeanor, welcoming presence, and unwavering commitment make him an invaluable member of the NBHS and NBISD community.
Elementary
Tim Kaufman, Carl Schurz
Jared Tooker, County Line
Kristine Morales, Klein Road
Casey Albarado, Lamar
Legend Point, Danielle Randolph
Jennifer Janecek, Lone Star
Heidi Blancarte, Memorial
Esperanza Cabrera, Seele
Taylor Uecker, Veramendi
Dalia Martinez, Voss Farms
Elizabeth Downey, Walnut Springs
Secondary
Alex Searcy, New Braunfels Middle School
Kyle Polk, Oak Run Middle School
Dawn Ellis, Long Creek High School
Dan Dunn, New Braunfels High School
Glynnis Akin, Two Rivers High School/DAEP/Gateway
List of Past Recipients
Excellence Awards
The Excellence Awards is an annual event recognizes individuals who demonstrate exceptional dedication to NBISD. Awards highlight excellence in teaching, leadership, and support services, showcasing those who go above and beyond to inspire student success and embody the district’s values.
The following individuals were recognized as the 2026 NBISD Excellence Award winners:
- Auxiliary Employee of the Year: Debbie Richardson, Transportation Data Clerk
- Bus Driver of the Year: Kendra Dabney
- Administrative Support Employee of the Year: Jasmine Miranda, Transportation Administrative Assistant
- Instructional Aide of the Year: Kaylene Beltran, Carl Schurz Elementary
- Paraprofessional of the Year: Vickie Hernandez, Accounting Specialist
- Substitute of the Year: Kyle Owen, Long Term Life Skills Substitute at Veramendi Elementary
- Professional of the Year: Carrie Hyland, Director of Instructional Technology
- Instructional Support Employee of the Year: Lauren Shelton, Instructional Technology Specialist
- Nurse of the Year: Ashley Woolsey, RN, Carl Schurz Elementary
- Counselor of the Year: Courtney Allison, Memorial Elementary
- School Resource Officer of the Year: Miguel Tristan
- Librarian of the Year: Melanie Bowen, Seele Elementary
- Fine Arts Educator of the Year: Emily Parrott, New Braunfels Middle School
- Coach of the Year: Brad Molder, New Braunfels High School
- Assistant Principal of the Year: Sara DeLuna, Lamar Elementary
- Principal of the Year: Omar Diaz, Carl Schurz Elementary
The district also recognized two Rising Star teachers:
- Elementary Rising Star: Valerie Buitron, County Line Elementary
- Secondary Rising Star: Nerissa Lane, New Braunfels High School
Duane Trujillo Commitment to Children Award, given in memory of a beloved NBISD staff member who exemplified dedication, compassion, and service. This year’s recipient, Courtney Allison, was recognized for her exceptional commitment to students, community engagement, and leadership.
List of Past Recipients
