# data[].attributes.body
The best way I can share these gifts is by showing up —being present in the classroom, attending UIL competitions, and supporting Genius Hour Showcases. I continue to stay in touch with former students, reminding them that I believe in them and encouraging them to soar.

# data[].attributes.body
I’ve found that many of my gifted and talented students face emotional challenges. Some struggle with the pressure of perfection, while others wrestle with feeling socially accepted by peers who may not share their abilities. Building strong relationships with my students is the foundation for supporting their academic growth. When they understand that I am someone who believes in them and stands by them, we can work together to overcome obstacles and achieve their goals. My unwavering belief in their success becomes a source of inspiration, encouraging them to rise to every challenge.

# data[].attributes.body
Quite frankly, I grew up surrounded by a circle of friends who were mostly twice gifted. Although I knew I wasn’t as naturally intelligent as they were, they always made me feel as though I was. That sense of inclusion and encouragement motivated me to become someone I might never have become on my own. My teachers recognized a drive for excellence in me that I hadn’t yet seen in myself. They guided me, challenged me, and modeled leadership, excellence, and high expectations. The belief that I could be successful was instilled in me not through pressure, but through a quiet, unwavering sense of certainty

# data[].attributes.body
I believe the greatest gift I bring to my students is the gift of belief. I strive to hold up a mirror so they can see the greatness I see in them. While a student’s strength may not always lie in English Language Arts, I help them understand that many of the skills we develop—such as critical thinking, discussion, and collaboration—are transferable and essential to success in all areas. Even when they are struggling, my students know that I believe in them. That belief is unwavering and consistent.

# data[].attributes.body
I can share my experiences through teaching students in the classroom. I think when you have life changing experiences, they tend to show in how you treat others and how compassionate you are to others.

# data[].attributes.body
I feel that my gifts serve as a way of being compassionate and understanding towards others. I think also my experiences help to make me understand how some people respond to certain situations.

# data[].attributes.body
Coming from a large diverse family I believe helped create the lens in which I see the world. I feel also attending diverse schools helped tremendously in see how all students learn differently in different environments. My teaching experience over the last 15 years has also opened my eyes to many things as well and helped me see students in a different light.

# data[].attributes.body
My gifts that I bring to the classroom is that I build a safe environment for my students and a learning space that they can feel comfortable making errors and room for improvement. I also build strong relationships with my students so that they can succeed.

# data[].attributes.body
I share my gifts by showing up and being "present" everyday. I have had numerous educational leadership roles the past few decades. I consider it an honor to mentor new teachers, be a lead on my team, share my knowledge at PD trainings, and collaborate with my PLC.

# data[].attributes.body
I have been incredibly blessed to raise my special needs son (mostly on my own). I had taught for about 7 years before he was born. After he was diagnosed as being on the spectrum at the age of 3, it truly changed how I approach my students and my instruction on every level. I've always considered myself to be an empath, but becoming a champion for students with ALL abilities has become my life passion.

# data[].attributes.body
I am from a large family. I grew up in a very small rural town in the 70s and 80s where everyone knew everyone and your character/integrity meant everything. I moved to Houston when I was 22. After I got over my "culture shock" I realized that this is where my heart belonged and my talent was needed.

# data[].attributes.body
My gifts include my 29 years in public education (mostly all here in Texas). I have taught students in grade levels K-6 in all content areas. I have been extremely fortunate to acquire a great deal of wisdom by participating in meaningful professional development activities throughout my career.

# data[].attributes.body
I think growing up around a mom who was a early childhood teacher herself helped me to really value what she was capable of doing and how much of an impact she had on her students. I feel also coming from a large family, I was given the opportunity to see how different we all learn and how we all view the world and circumstances which we are dealt and in very differently.

# data[].attributes.body
Angelica Saenz

My gifts that I bring to my learning environment are that I am passionate about teaching the younger kids and I still very much enjoy what I still do. I love to watch the students learn and I love to teach them new things and see their happy faces once they feel they have done a successful job!

# data[].attributes.body
I share my gifts everyday. Each day I encounter students. It takes kindness, patience, and love.

# data[].attributes.body
I'm relatable and I listen. Others are able to open up to me because I don't judge and allow them to be themselves.

# data[].attributes.body
My parents were foster parents from Kinder to high school. I grew up with lots of children, all different in their own way. I am extremely blessed.

# data[].attributes.body
I bring the gift of joy. I love working with ALL children that exhibit different behaviors. I love to get to the root of who they are and their why.

# data[].attributes.body
My gifts are in writing instruction, presenting learning for teachers, and coaching students and teachers to reach new heights.

I have been a teacher for 25 years and spent most of my years in urban education settings. I received my Masters in Education from UHCL and my Doctorate in Literacy from UH.

I share my gifts and experiences during teaching and presenting professional development. I feel that I can reach students and teachers in a way that others may struggle with.

I try to share my gifts as often as I can through district professional development opportunities and through local and state conferences.

# data[].attributes.body
I get the pleasure of teaching students how to navigate friendships and building relationships with others with they same principles a model with them.

# data[].attributes.body
My gifts and experiences may inspire others because their is so much value in patience, grace, and gratitude.

# data[].attributes.body
I think being in this role (kindergarten) for 4 years has taught me how much our young learners CAN do. Our students aren't truly coming to us as a blank slate. They are individuals, diverse, unique experiences, big hearts, and natural curiosity. How wonderful it is to build our students up in the 10 months we get with them.

# data[].attributes.body
I believe one of the biggest gifts I bring to my classroom is my heart. I work hard to make sure every student knows they are important, cared for, and valued.

# data[].attributes.body
I share my gifts and experiences by starting new with my students everyday. Life happens and sometimes a day doesn't end like we want it to. I make sure each child knows they are welcomed and loved to set that positive tone for the day.

# data[].attributes.body
I believe my gifts and experiences serve as an inspiration to others because they allow me to make a connection with my students. They know I motivate them to their fullest potential and that I won't give up on them.

# data[].attributes.body
I grew up with a very loving family. My mom always encouraged us to try new things and travel outside our comfort zone. I wanted to help and encourage others like she did with my sister and I. There is so much potential for our future generations and I want to help them reach theirs.

# data[].attributes.body
The gifts I bring are patience that not every child learns the same and a safe and postive environment for the children to build relationships with each other and myself.

# data[].attributes.body
I like to share these gifts and experiences in the classroom, on the field, coaching sports, explaining different aspects of life. I enjoy hearing the kids talk about how they want to do this or that in a classroom or hearing those "ah ha" moments when they finally make that connection.

# data[].attributes.body
I have done a lot of traveling and have had many encounters to different things. I really love bringing those into my classroom for the kids to start exploring on their own. I enjoy challenging the students to inspire themselves by creating a future plan.

# data[].attributes.body
I come from an accounting and business background. I've used math and other resources for multitudes of things outside of school. I have traveled and worked in several areas. Each is unique and learning to change things when they don't work was a huge learning curve. I like teaching real world content and having the students start to think about what they might need in the future.

# data[].attributes.body
I bring organization and structure. I've taught grade levels above my current, which I get to tell my students about what they might be using the content for later in their education.

# data[].attributes.body
I can share my gifts and experiences by building relationships and discussing the good times and the hard times. I can use my experiences when motivating students through writing about what I have experienced. Also, I can make connections to students through books that will address lives challenges.

# data[].attributes.body
My gifts may inspire my students to continue to work towards growth. I would love to motivate my students to have a continued desire to grow and learn. I also want to inspire the other teachers around me by helping them in tough times.

# data[].attributes.body
I come from a very close family unit. They helped me understand what it means to create strong bonds and relationships with others. They helped me to understand that the world is full of people who are different from one another, but each in need of the same basic things. This drives me to believe my role is to build meaningful relationships with others and to help others.

# data[].attributes.body
One gift I bring to the learning environment is a willingness to build relationships and try new things that will better my students. I also have a few years of experience in the content I teach which allows me to have the gift of knowledge through practice.

# data[].attributes.body
I share through classroom experiences with people who are willing to listen and learn.

# data[].attributes.body
I do not know if they do. It has been tough to find like-minded others who see the students as who they are, rather than trying to shape them their way and keep them in this traditional type of system. I think that I can bring many ideas, and different viewpoints, but others have to be open-minded to them.

# data[].attributes.body
Working in HISD then transitioning to Fort Bend ISD, growing up in my district and learning about many viewpoints, ideas, challenging those ideas, biases, etc. Now teaching, I have broadened those ideas, try to refine them, uphold them and share them with others.

# data[].attributes.body
I bring 9 years of education experience, my own TAG (Talented and Gifted) mind because I remember being in this program in Dallas ISD, and ideas that I want to use, learn and explore when it comes to the needs of learners.

# data[].attributes.body
I will start a mentorship program for teens in a single-parent household.

# data[].attributes.body
I think that my gifts and experiences help me to motivate students who are in similar situations to think independently and go after opportunities presented.

# data[].attributes.body
I grew up in a single-parent household. I was a latchkey kid who had to learn to navigate life without much parental support. This gave me the perspective that the world has opportunities if you work hard doors will open for you. I see my role as a bridge for students to mature a grow into great mathematicians.

# data[].attributes.body
The gifts that I bring to our learning environment are structure and guidance throughout their sixth-grade year. I also offer opportunities for problem-solving.

# data[].attributes.body
I explain to students and other educators about my life experience, so I can help them understand why I like to explain all viewpoints.

# data[].attributes.body
My gifts and experiences can inspire others to look at other viewpoints.

# data[].attributes.body
I grew up in an Air Force family and lived in Germany for several years, then moved to Alabama. This made me see how big of a difference attitudes and life experiences can be. It helps me try to explain to AP Government students, how to see the world from different viewpoints.

# data[].attributes.body
My understanding that not everyone learns the same way, and not everyone likes to be the center of attention.

# data[].attributes.body
My gifts are shared by trying to be true to myself in every situation and letting that be a visual example to others, especially my students, that you can be who and what you are and still make an impact in the world.

# data[].attributes.body
I offer a perspective that I'm willing to share and have the confidence to be myself regardless of whoever is around whether they be "common" people or "dignitaries" Review "If" by Rudyard Kipling.

# data[].attributes.body
Being a Black man in situations where I've been both the minority and the majority has provided perspective, especially during my time at Texas A&M.

# data[].attributes.body
I bring a perspective and thoughtfulness from a different lived lens with a willingness to share, even at the risk of being the only with a certain thought or idea.

# data[].attributes.body
I like to use my background to connect with the kids. When I mention the Alvin Wal-Mart or graduating from AHS, the kids perk up a little bit. It helps to keep the kids engaged.

# data[].attributes.body
Growing up in Alvin and attending AHS makes teaching feel so much more than a job. I want to give it my all each day.

# data[].attributes.body
I grew up in Alvin, so I have a lot in common with the kids that come into my classroom. We have many shared experiences that I can relate to the kids.

# data[].attributes.body
Patience - I have been teaching for a number of years and have seen it all in the classroom.

# data[].attributes.body
I share my gifts by being my authentic self.

# data[].attributes.body
I hope my gifts and experiences serves as an inspiration to others by showing how commitment and positivity can take you far.

# data[].attributes.body
My own educational experience was filled with educators that held high expectations for their students and treated us like we were capable. I know the importance of doing this starting at such a young age. (I teach Kinder). Each year I get to see how much my young students grow. Best part of the job.

# data[].attributes.body
The gifts I bring to the learning environment include providing collaboration and problem-solving opportunities in a communication rich classroom.

# data[].attributes.body
Those gifts & experiences are shared with my students & colleagues

# data[].attributes.body
My positivity & patience could serve as a source of inspiration.

# data[].attributes.body
Struggling with math in Jr High & high school allowed me to understand my students when they feel defeated.

# data[].attributes.body
My gifts include an understanding of the content and ability to tailor it for students to feel successful.

# data[].attributes.body
I can share my gift by always being positive with others and showing empathy.

# data[].attributes.body
I've always been a positive person. I make sure that I stay that way in situations and that others are inspired by it.

# data[].attributes.body
My family has a large impact from how I see the world. Everyone is different and view things different ways.

# data[].attributes.body
I create a safe and positive learning environment for my students.

# data[].attributes.body
I can share my gifts/experiences in and out of the classroom. I want to show them by example (my creativity, being open-minded, empathetic and adaptable, etc.) and use my experiences to help connect to others.

# data[].attributes.body
I believe that everyone has a unique set of abilities and experiences that make them special. I love learning about others and taking inspiration from them. I think that it is natural for people to be inspired by what is different from themselves. My experiences/gifts could do the same for others.

# data[].attributes.body
Throughout elementary school, I had so many amazing teachers. What I remember from them is not the curriculum as much, but the life skills and cultural experiences. For example, we learned all about Asia for a week and different customs and traditions they had and applied some of them in school. We also learned sign language and the history of it and how it could be impactful to learn. School is about much more than just following the curriculum, but also teaching children to be curious about the outside world and all that it has to offer. I try to carry that with me in the classroom.

# data[].attributes.body
I see my adaptability and creativity as a gift. I can tailor my responses and explanations to suit different learning styles and levels of understanding as well as offer creative solutions to problems and encourage innovative thinking among learners.

# data[].attributes.body
By engaging in conversations during lessons, sgi and one-on-one sessions, sharing experiences and gifts can be acheive and can be more personalized within smaller groups.

# data[].attributes.body
Modeling and constant evolution are crucial to inspiring others. While modeling may not reach all students, finding common ground with those who are not and evolving modeling techniques to show that there is common ground within one's range can reach them better. It is the same with repeating and revising directions until the direction is found to clear up any confusion on the student's behalf.

# data[].attributes.body
Theresa Lewis

I learned early that self motivation and a thirst for learning are the best things to allow students to accomplish anything they want. Discipline within one's self is also a great thing. I work to model these thing to my students while building their confidence and knowledge base.

# data[].attributes.body
Theresa Lewis

My gifts include knowledge of TEKS/College Board curriculum. I build strong relationships with my students and start courses from the ground up while allowing more advanced students to work ahead as needed. I have a passion for computer science and work to bring that out in the classroom.

# data[].attributes.body
I teach my students that it's okay to own their feelings and actions. I teach them to love themselves and to know that mistakes are a pivitol part of learning. I share my personal mistakes with them, so that they know that it is possible to overcome obstacles. I teach them anything is possible if they have the right attitude and grit.

# data[].attributes.body
I had many negative personal experiences growing up. It made it hard sometimes to be focused at school. I had to overcome obstacles to stay on track and to finish college. Throughout my journey, I have remained true to myself and kept moving forward. I am proof that you can remain resilient and kind through hardships.

# data[].attributes.body
I grew up as an EL, in a low income area, and had many struggles within my household. My teachers were a safe place for me. They provided me with the support and understanding that I needed. I grew up wanting to help and nuture people because of this. I beileve that it is my role to create a safe space for my students to share their thoughts. I believe that creating positive relationships benefit children emotionally, but also academically.

# data[].attributes.body
The gifts that I bring to our learning environment are compassion and the ability to learn my students needs. I focus on teaching my students as a whole person, so I try to reach each child on an academic as well as emaotional level.

# data[].attributes.body
I will share those ideas in discussion boards.

# data[].attributes.body
I think I will be helpful with sharing ideas my different roles of a teacher, literacy specialist and a dyslexia specialist. I have seen GT students in all of my positions.

# data[].attributes.body
I have been teaching for 11 years and 2 in MD. I have worked with all types of students from GT to special education students.

# data[].attributes.body
I bring new ideas from my neurodiversity brain.

# data[].attributes.body
To share my gifts, I will incorporate these teachings in my everyday lessons to inspire my students to look beyond what they have been label and see what they can do.

# data[].attributes.body
I am a very patient person and open-minded and I know that everyone can get to the same conclusion in one way or another, it just depends on the person and how their brain works to get them there. If I can teach my students that they will see that they can be successful in anything that they put their minds to.

# data[].attributes.body
Diversity is all around us. Not only in our schools but also our families. I think that seeing past the differences we can be united and be able to work together as we should.

# data[].attributes.body
I have been in special education for the past 11 years. I see that these students can be gifted and talented if someone just sees past their disabilities and see their real abilities.

# data[].attributes.body
I might share these experiences and gifts by coming in everyday with a positive attitude. I can do this by fostering a tight knit classroom culture and environment that is accepting and loving.

# data[].attributes.body
I would hope that my gifts and experiences would spread kindness and compassion to others as I try my very best to be a role model.

# data[].attributes.body
Some experience that have created the lens in which I see the world are coming from a large family, living and visiting abroad, being a parent, and being educated in a different country/school system. I have encountered and interacted with many different cultures and many different people (hello fourth child out of six kids with differing personalities). I feel like I have an understanding and appreciation for most people and a heart of acceptance. As a parent, I have taken on a different perspective because now I know how it feels to be on the other side. I feel like I have more compassion and empathy and the need to keep the lines of communication open with parents.

# data[].attributes.body
A gift that I bring to the learning environment is not only my 13 years of experience in several grade levels but also my desire to foster relationships with my students and their parents. I'm a huge proponent of capturing kids hearts and have seen the benefits of getting to know my students on a deeper level AND letting them get to know me as a person. Once that connection is formed I believe that students will genuinely be motivated to do well for you as the teacher, and of course themselves.

# data[].attributes.headline
I often am upfront with my students about my experiences. I tell them about my childhood without a father and about the mother that helped build me. I also tell them, "if you don't learn a single other thing in my class, you will learn that you are loved." And then throughout the year, I build relationships and make sure I always tell each class I love them before leaving for a break.

# data[].attributes.subject
I often am upfront with my students about my experiences. I tell them about my childhood without a father and about the mother that helped build me. I also tell them, "if you don't learn a single other thing in my class, you will learn that you are loved." And then throughout the year, I build relationships and make sure I always tell each class I love them before leaving for a break.

# data[].attributes.headline
I hope to inspire others with my dedication to building relationships that they may go forward and build their own relationships with love and compassion. I hope my experiences will teach students that you can always rise above, nothing but your perseverance and attitude decide the future that you will have.

# data[].attributes.subject
I hope to inspire others with my dedication to building relationships that they may go forward and build their own relationships with love and compassion. I hope my experiences will teach students that you can always rise above, nothing but your perseverance and attitude decide the future that you will have.

# data[].attributes.headline
My life experiences certainly shaped the way I operate my classroom. I grew up without a father, however my mom worked her tail off to ensure she could do both roles. Seeing this dedication and perseverance instilled in me compassion; it taught me that you never know what they're going through outside your four walls. It encouraged me to meet the students where they are and show them that they always have a safe place and always have someone to work their tail off to ensure they feel loved.

# data[].attributes.subject
My life experiences certainly shaped the way I operate my classroom. I grew up without a father, however my mom worked her tail off to ensure she could do both roles. Seeing this dedication and perseverance instilled in me compassion; it taught me that you never know what they're going through outside your four walls. It encouraged me to meet the students where they are and show them that they always have a safe place and always have someone to work their tail off to ensure they feel loved.

# data[].attributes.headline
I bring compassion and strong relationship building skills into my classroom every year! This allows me to love each student where they are and foster a relationship that will have them feeling loved long after they leave my classroom for summer.

# data[].attributes.subject
I bring compassion and strong relationship building skills into my classroom every year! This allows me to love each student where they are and foster a relationship that will have them feeling loved long after they leave my classroom for summer.

# data[].attributes.body
I will share the experiences I have had by showing up for my students every day and allowing the a comfortable and exciting learning enviornment. I will ensure we have a strong relationship so that the real work can begin.

# data[].attributes.body
I might share those gifts and experiences by building relationships and making connections. Through those connections, I will be able to show others my thought process and perhaps show them another way to think of adversity.

# data[].attributes.body
My gifts and experiences may be a source of inspiration to those who struggle keeping a growth mindset. I can share these by modeling how to be positive and determined in finding solutions. I try and show my students how to embrace the uncomfortableness of falling while honing their skill. Learning is a messy but a rewarding process.

# data[].attributes.body
My experiences growing up created the lens in which I view the world. My mother only completed up to the 4th grade in another country. She had to teach herself a lot as she went through life, including learning English and creating her own business. Growing up I was able to use her as a role model on how to look for the solution and be positive about facing adversity.

# data[].attributes.body
A gift that I bring to the learning environment is the ability to find enjoyment in the learning process. I enjoy working with my students to break down the stigma of math being difficult and monotonous. I model how to view a problem in an intrigued manner and emulate how to enjoy the adventure of solving the problem at hand.