United ISD celebrated two exemplary educators during a special presentation honoring the district’s 2026 Teachers of the Year, made possible by the continued support of Partner in Education Charlie Clark Hyundai of Laredo.

For the third consecutive year, Charlie Clark Hyundai surprised UISD’s Elementary and Secondary Teachers of the Year with a one-year lease on a brand-new 2026 Hyundai Elantra in recognition of their dedication and impact on students.

This year’s honorees include Elizabeth Guerra-Lara, a 4th grade Special Education teacher at Perez Elementary School, and Ariana Bermea-Mendoza, teacher and head volleyball coach at J.B. Alexander High School.

District administrators, campus leaders, students, staff and families gathered alongside UISD Superintendent Dr. Gerardo Cruz to celebrate the educators and the work they do inside and outside the classroom.

“There are just two being recognized here today, but throughout our district there are so many teachers deserving of this kind of recognition,” said Dr. Cruz. “Today we celebrate two educators who have poured their hearts into students and continue to make a positive difference in our district. Thank you to Charlie Clark Hyundai for continuing to invest in our educators and public education.”

“With good coaches and good teachers that mentor you and love you, you get it done,” said Charlie Clark, CEO and Owner of Charlie Clark Hyundai, as he spoke about the importance of educators in our lives. “I could feel all of the love in the room for these teachers. My coaches and teachers helped me become who I am today. Being able to give back this way means everything to us. This partnership is something our entire team is proud of.”

Guerra-Lara delivered a heartfelt message as she reflected on the encouragement and opportunities she has received throughout her career. 

“I’m very grateful and very proud to work for our district,” she said. “This little girl from the southside is Teacher of the Year for UISD, and I am very proud. I love what I do, and I wouldn’t be able to do any of this without the support of my Lord and Savior, Jesus Christ.”

Known for creating a nurturing and supportive classroom environment, Guerra-Lara focuses on educating the whole child through differentiated instruction and strong relationships with families. Her compassion and dedication continue to leave a meaningful impact on her students both academically and personally. “My passion for teaching elementary students is something that I can’t really put into words, it is not a profession it is definitely a calling. It is something that excites me in the morning when I go to school and I get to see my kids, she added.

Bermea-Mendoza also spoke about the educators who inspired her growing up and how those experiences fueled her drive for teaching and coaching.

“Education is something that I’ve always known,” she shared. “My parents are both educators, so I grew up seeing how it all works. I grew up a coach’s kid and saw firsthand the impact my parents had on their students and families at their schools.”

She also expressed gratitude for the opportunity to continue shaping her students.

“I’m very blessed to be in this position. We get to impact kids every single day,” said Bermea-Mendoza. “We have amazing students in our district, amazing support, and I’m also very excited about the car!”

         Charlie Clark pictured with Elizabeth Guerra-Lara, Ariana Bermea-Mendoza, and the   

                                                       J.B. Alexander H.S. drumline.

In addition to her work in the classroom, Bermea-Mendoza has built an impressive legacy as head volleyball coach at Alexander High School. She has earned national recognition from the American Volleyball Coaches Association for surpassing 300 career wins and was named the Texas High School Coaches Association Region 7-6A Coach of the Year.

The recognition event also featured the wonderful music and support from students across the district, including the J.B. Alexander High School Drumline under the direction of Joshua Martinez and Assistant Band Director Armando Blanco.

The mighty Bulldog mascot and Alexander volleyball players attended to cheer on their coach, while Perez Elementary’s 5th grade Lady Roadrunners volleyball team also celebrated Mrs. Guerra-Lara during the special presentation.

UISD extends its sincere appreciation to Charlie Clark, General Manager Michael Coria, and the entire Charlie Clark Hyundai of Laredo team for continuing to highlight the great work happening inside classrooms across the district every day.

Beremea-Mendoza pictured with Charlie Clark and her family.