Spring Branch Independent School District (SBISD) proudly announces the winners of the 2024 Teacher of the Year competition, recognizing educators who exemplify excellence and dedication in shaping young minds.
Madeline Margraves and Elisa Barry have been awarded the titles of SBISD’s Elementary Teacher of the Year and Secondary Teacher of the Year, respectively.
Madeline Margraves, 2024 Elementary Teacher of the Year, brings her passion for special education to Frostwood Elementary. She has created an engaging learning environment within her APPLE classroom, designed to support students on the autism spectrum. Madeline's commitment to fostering empathy and understanding has earned her recognition as a beacon of inspiration in her community.
A product of SBISD, Margraves attended Valley Oaks Elementary, Spring Branch Middle, and Memorial High schools. Her academic journey culminated in the attainment of a Bachelor of Science degree in Agricultural Leadership and Development from Texas A&M University. Returning to her roots in SBISD, Margraves initially served as a substitute teacher before discovering her calling in championing the students of the Life Skills and APPLE programs.
Elisa Barry, honored as 2024 Secondary Teacher of the Year, has been inspiring her peers and students since 2005, nurturing budding artists at Memorial High School. Her dedication extends beyond the classroom as she guides learners in utilizing their talents for community service through projects like "From the HeART." Elisa's support empowers students to express themselves creatively while making a tangible impact.
With over three decades of experience in education, including nearly twenty years within SBISD, Barry's expertise spans across various levels, from teaching K-5 Art at Valley Oaks Elementary to instructing US History at Spring Branch Middle School. Her commitment to high-quality instruction ensures Every Child can explore and express their individual creativity in the classroom and beyond.
Having earned a Bachelor of Fine Arts degree from the University of North Texas, Barry started her teaching career in Alvin ISD before finding her home in SBISD. Throughout her tenure, she has garnered numerous accolades, including the prestigious 2023 Outstanding Teacher of Excellence in the Arts award from the Performing Arts Society of Houston.
Madeline and Elisa not only actively foster the development of the Core Characteristic of a T-2-4 Ready Graduate through their teaching and personal example, but they also embody SBISD's Core Values. Their collaboration, limitless curiosity and kindness inspire students, colleagues and the community.
As SBISD celebrates these outstanding educators, they are now poised to represent the district in the Region 4 Teachers of the Year competition. If successful, they will advance to compete at the state and national levels, showcasing the exceptional teaching talent nurtured within SBISD.
Learn more about this year’s exceptional educators, including campus Teachers of the Year and our distinguished Principal of the Year recipients, by clicking here.
Then, join SBISD in applauding Madeline Margraves and Elisa Barry as the 2024 Elementary and Secondary Teachers of the Year! Their tireless dedication inspires minds and transforms lives within our schools and community every single day.
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🎉 Meet Our 2024 Elementary and Secondary Teacher of the Year winners! 🎉
Join us in celebrating excellence in education as we announce the winners of the 2024 Teacher of the Year competition! 🏆 Madeline Margraves and Elisa Barry have been recognized for their dedication to shaping young minds. 👏 Dive deeper into their inspiring stories and meet other outstanding educators by clicking here.