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New Braunfels ISD proudly recognized outstanding staff members at the Fifth Annual NBISD Excellence Awards, held at the historic Brauntex Theatre on Tuesday, April 29th. The event honored employees across the district who go above and beyond in service to students, schools, and the community.
Superintendent Dr. Laurelyn Arterbury highlighted the significance of the evening, noting that more than 400 nominations were submitted by colleagues and community members.
“Each day, our staff members invest their time, talent, and passion into supporting our students,” she said. “Tonight is about celebrating the incredible difference they make.”
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
Two educators were named District Teachers of the Year and will advance to regional competition:
- Elementary Teacher of the Year: Elizabeth Downey, Walnut Springs Elementary
- Secondary Teacher of the Year: Daniel Dunn, New Braunfels High School
In addition, NBISD proudly recognized its 2026 Campus Teachers of the Year, representing excellence in teaching and leadership across the district:
- Tim Kaufman, Carl Schurz Elementary
- Jared Tooker, County Line Elementary
- Kristine Morales, Klein Road Elementary
- Casey Albarado, Lamar Elementary
- Danielle Randolph, Legend Point Elementary
- Jennifer Janecek, Lone Star Early Childhood Center
- Heidi Blancarte, Memorial Elementary
- Esperanza Cabrera, Seele Elementary
- Taylor Uecker, Veramendi Elementary
- Dalia Martinez, Voss Farms Elementary
- Elizabeth Downey, Walnut Springs Elementary
- Alex Searcy, New Braunfels Middle School
- Kyle Polk, Oak Run Middle School
- Dawn Ellis, Long Creek High School
- Daniel Dunn, New Braunfels High School
- Glynnis Akin, Two Rivers High School/DAEP/Gateway
The evening concluded with the presentation of the 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.
The NBISD Excellence Awards serve as a reminder of the extraordinary individuals who make a lasting impact on students every day.
Photos from the event can be found in the NBISD Photo Gallery.
