A passionate call for the importance of public education resonated at the 2025 AWARE Foundation Awards Dinner, held by Arlington ISD in Texas. A veteran teacher shared her heartfelt experiences, emphasizing the transformative power of public schools in shaping students' lives and communities.

Reflecting on her 22 years of teaching, she highlighted the multifaceted roles educators play—mentors, therapists, and advocates—while managing classrooms and often spending their own money to enhance learning experiences. "These moments matter," she stated, underscoring how they foster confidence and resilience in students.

The speaker, who grew up in the small town of Haskell, Texas, shared her journey from a first-generation college student to a dedicated high school teacher. She passionately advocated for the AVID program, which supports first-generation college students, revealing that her students have collectively earned over $43 million in scholarships in the past five years. "Being an AVID teacher is an honor," she declared, noting the program's significant impact on students' futures.

She also paid tribute to a pivotal figure in her life, Coach Richard Holloway, who believed in her potential when she struggled academically. "You have shown me the true meaning of impact," she expressed, highlighting the crucial role educators play in nurturing the next generation.

In closing, she urged attendees to recognize public education as the cornerstone of democracy, advocating for its investment, respect, and advocacy. "We cannot take public education for granted," she warned, emphasizing its vital role in creating thoughtful citizens and compassionate human beings.