Freedom Elementary Teacher Laura Valdez Selected as Teacher of the Month

Posted Date: 11/07/2024

Freedom Elementary First Grade Teacher Laura Valdez says she does her job out of love and doesn’t expect rewards.

But a local law firm and KGNS-TV recognized and honored Valdez on Wednesday for all her hard work and dedication.

Local attorney Joey Tellez, KGNS-TV News Anchor Mindy Casso, Associate Superintendent for District Administration and Student Services Rebecca Morales, Principal Stephanie Silva Garcia, cameramen, along with staff carrying pom poms, entered Valdez’s classroom to tell her she received the KGNS-TV Teacher of the Month recognition. Her students erupted in cheers, chanted her name and eventually embraced her in a big group hug.

“I was just surprised,” she said after receiving the recognition. “We come to work every day to do the best that we can without expecting anything in return. To be rewarded like this is very emotional. It’s very exciting.”

She and her principal shed tears throughout the formal recognition.

“It’s just a passion I have and I have always liked to help others … It inspires me to work every day,” said Valdez, who has been teaching with UISD for 25 years. “My students are very respectful. They always want to show me that they can be great students and that’s what I love about my students.”

Every month, the Tellez Law Firm and KGNS-TV pick inspiring teachers who set great examples for the students and the community. Each Teacher of the Month is awarded a $250 gift card, a basket of goodies and other gifts.

L to R: Attorney Joey Tellez, Freedom Elementary Teacher Laura Valdez, and KGNS-TV News Anchor Mindy Casso