United Way of Midland Hosts Annual Excellence in Education Awards
The United Way of Midland celebrated educators across Midland County during its annual Excellence in Education Awards ceremony, held April 23 at the Bush Convention Center.
The event recognized outstanding teachers and staff from Midland Independent School District, Greenwood ISD, and local private schools, honoring those who make a lasting impact on students and the broader community. This year, United Way of Midland awarded $91,500 and celebrated 103 outstanding campus-level teachers and heroes. Honorees were selected by community judges and school leadership for their dedication, innovation, and commitment to excellence in education.
Special congratulations to this year’s nine specialty award recipients:
- Campus of the Year: Midland High School
- Elementary Teacher of the Year: Ashley McCann, Lamar Elementary
- Secondary Teacher of the Year: Ramona Griffin, Greenwood High School
- Private School Teacher of the Year: Brittney Burleson, Midland Christian Elementary
- Unsung Hero of the Year: Juanita Molinar-Flores, Burnet Elementary
- Rookie Teacher of the Year: Rowela Basa, Texas Leadership of Midland
- Veteran Teacher of the Year: Kim Connel, Yarbrough Elementary
- Moving the Needle Recipient: Karen Vicory, Alamo Junior High
- Innovative Teacher of the Year: Rina Lopez, Midland High School
United Way of Midland began hosting the Excellence in Education Awards five years ago, and the event has grown each year, not only in size but also in its impact. What started as a simple recognition program has evolved into a powerful celebration of the heart and soul of the education system: the teachers and campus staff who work tirelessly to serve students.
The Excellence in Education Awards are part of United Way of Midland’s broader efforts to support students and families, including programs focused on social health and well-being, youth opportunity, and financial security.
This year’s Excellence in Education Awards were made possible by the generous support of community sponsors, including Presenting Sponsor Abell-Hanger Foundation. Additional sponsors include Atmos Energy, Community National Bank, ConocoPhillips, Diamondback Energy, EOG Resources, ExxonMobil, Frost Bank, HEB, Henry Foundation, Lynch Chappell & Alsup, Midland College, Scharbauer Foundation, The Fasken Foundation, and Warren Charitable Foundation.
United Way of Midland extends its gratitude to educators across the region for their tireless commitment and to the community partners who make events like this possible.