Two extraordinary United Independent School District educators received the surprise of a lifetime during the 2026 UISD Employee Recognition Awards Banquet when they were named Teachers of the Year and awarded the opportunity to drive brand-new vehicles for an entire year courtesy of Charlie Clark Hyundai.

The district’s top honors went to Elizabeth Guerra-Lara of Perez Elementary School, named the 2026 UISD Elementary Teacher of the Year, and Ariana Bermea-Mendoza of Alexander High School, named the 2026 UISD Secondary Teacher of the Year.

As their names were announced before an excited crowd at Altezza Events on Thursday, May 7, both educators were overcome with emotion and disbelief. Along with prizes donated by generous sponsors, the two outstanding teachers received one of the district’s most celebrated traditions — the ceremonial keys to brand-new vehicles provided by Charlie Clark Hyundai. Orale!

The evening brought together district leaders, employees, family members, and community supporters for a memorable celebration honoring the incredible work being done across UISD campuses and departments.

Superintendent Dr. Gerardo Cruz congratulated all honorees and thanked employees for their dedication to students and the district.

“Your work and dedication are celebrated and appreciated,” Dr. Cruz told employees during the banquet.

Among those attending the celebration were UISD Board President Javier Montemayor, board member Rodolfo Gonzalez, representatives from Charlie Clark Hyundai, the Superintendent’s management team, school principals, department heads, and family and friends of the honorees.

“When you look at the success our district and students have enjoyed, it could not have been accomplished without the talented people in this room working together,” said Board President Montemayor. “Everyone is an ‘employee of the year’ in my book, and I’m proud to celebrate this evening with you.”

Entertainment for the evening was provided by the Juan Roberto Ramirez Middle School Mariachi Cascabel under the direction of Francisco Sosa.

UISD also expressed appreciation to the generous sponsors who donated gifts for all winners, including Laredo Federal Credit Union, Texas Roadhouse, Clear Choice Emergency Room, Macy’s, the UISD Wellness Department, and the UISD Management Team.

Every UISD campus and department recognized Employees of the Year, including teachers, paraprofessionals, and auxiliary staff members. Excitement filled the room as districtwide winners were announced and honorees jumped from their seats in celebration.

Elementary Teacher of the Year: Elizabeth Guerra-Lara

Elizabeth Guerra-Lara of Perez Elementary School said she was overwhelmed by the honor.

“I am overwhelmed and in disbelief,” Guerra-Lara said. “There were a lot of amazing candidates interviewed this year, and I was not expecting it at all.”

A teacher for 18 years, Guerra-Lara said her passion for education comes from a third-grade teacher who changed her life.

“She allowed me to believe, despite my circumstances at home at the time, that I could do whatever I wanted,” Guerra-Lara said. “I wanted to become a teacher to change lives and help students believe they can do whatever they want.”

She also thanked her husband, Alfredo Lara, for his support, as well as Perez Elementary administrators and UISD.

Secondary Teacher of the Year: Ariana Bermea-Mendoza

Alexander High School educator Ariana Bermea-Mendoza described the recognition as a complete surprise.

“This is my first time ever being nominated as Teacher of the Year for my campus, so this is the first time I’ve ever been to this banquet,” she said.

Bermea-Mendoza teaches health education and serves as head volleyball coach. Inspired by generations of educators in her family, she said she has always admired the impact teachers and coaches can have on students.

“I saw the impact educators made firsthand on their students and athletes,” she said. “I love working with our kids, and I’m very thankful and honored to receive this award.”

A teacher for 14 years and mother of three daughters, Bermea-Mendoza also expressed gratitude to her school administration, fellow teachers, mentors, and UISD for their support.

UISD congratulates all 2026 Employee Recognition Award winners and thanks them for their commitment, passion, and service to students and the community.

2026 UISD Employee Recognition Award Winners

Elementary Teacher of the Year

Winner — Elizabeth Guerra-Lara, Perez Elementary School
1st Runner-Up — Linda Yelderman, Centeno Elementary School
2nd Runner-Up — Tatiana Gonzalez, San Isidro Elementary School

Secondary Teacher of the Year

Winner — Ariana Bermea-Mendoza, Alexander High School
1st Runner-Up — Martha Ramirez-Ayala, United High School 9th Grade Campus
2nd Runner-Up — Gildardo Benavides, Lyndon B. Johnson High School

Campus Paraprofessional of the Year — George Barron, Clark Middle School

District Paraprofessional of the Year— Robert Ruiz, Federal Programs

Campus Auxiliary of the Year— Elsa Mendez, Arndt Elementary School

District Auxiliary of the Year— Rafael Becerra, Food Service