2024 - 2025 Best of Bearcats Winners!
Bearcat Nation, early in May we had the absolute joy of celebrating 13 outstanding Aledo ISD employees during our Best of Bearcats celebration! From classrooms to cafeterias, buses to behind the scenes operations, these amazing Bearcats are All In Aledo every single day.
We surprised them with plaques, flowers… and yes, checks! Thanks to our generous sponsors, we awarded $21,000 to these rockstars who truly embody Growing Greatness and create Exceptional Experiences for our students and staff.
Huge thanks to our incredible community for making celebrations like this possible!
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Secondary Teacher of the Year, Amanda Douglas!
Amanda helps students take ownership of their learning and their story. From daily challenges to heartfelt encouragement, she’s Growing Greatness in every student while building a family-style classroom community. Celebrated by Huckabee with a $5,000 award!
Elementary Teacher of the Year, Carrie Young!
Carrie creates a classroom where kids feel like family. With fun lessons like “contraction surgery” and a focus on empathy and excitement, she crafts Exceptional Experiences that help students love school—and each other. Celebrated by First Financial Bank and PBK with a $5,000 award!
Beginning Teacher of the Year, Sarah Mooney!
Sarah hit the ground running in Aledo ISD! She’s a key contributor to her PLC team, makes learning meaningful and fun, and fosters a love of reading in her classroom. She’s Growing Greatness by connecting with her students and inspiring success from day one. Celebrated by the Walsh Family with a $1,000 award!
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Excellence in Leadership Award Recipient, Deanne Torres!
Deanne is the ultimate behind-the-scenes problem solver—supporting staff with data, systems, and encouragement. Her positivity, reliability, and dedication to continuous growth embody All in Aledo leadership at its finest. Celebrated by Bearcat Backers with a $1,000 award!
Dan Manning IDEA Award Recipient, Zan Banks!
Her “3-Minute History Podcast” project blended research, storytelling, and tech to engage students across subjects. With innovation at the heart of her teaching, she’s creating Exceptional Experiences that prepare students to think critically and lead boldly. Celebrated by the Dan Manning Endowment with a $1,000 award!
Professional Support Award Recipient, Lauren Rocha!
Whether she’s helping with STEAM projects, leading literacy groups, running announcements, or surprising students with long-awaited books, Lauren’s creativity and care make Coder a magical place to learn. She embodies Exceptional Experiences through and through! Celebrated by the Dan Manning Endowment with a $1,000 award!
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Child Nutrition Employee of the Year, Cathy Barrera!
Cathy creates a welcoming cafeteria where every child feels seen and valued. She knows names, adapts with grace, and makes sure lunch is a positive, smooth, and Exceptional Experience for all. Celebrated by the Moritz/Hardick Family with a $1,000 award!
Maintenance Employee of the Year, Wesley Rook!
Wesley’s can-do attitude, upbeat personality, and versatility make him a vital part of our operations. Whether he's making deliveries or tackling repairs, he does it all with a smile. He lives out an All in Aledo mindset daily and brings an Exceptional Experience to every job. Celebrated by CORE Construction with a $1,000 award!
Paraprofessional of the Year, Mitra Gabaldon!
As a PEIMS clerk, Mitra plays a vital role in tracking student data, registering new families, and creating a welcoming first impression. Her compassion and care were never more evident than when she supported a refugee family with grace and empathy. Mitra creates Exceptional Experiences from day one—she’s truly All in Aledo. Celebrated by the Moritz/Hardick Family with a $1,000 award!
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Police Officer of the Year, Chessa Cassels!
From directing traffic with a smile to building strong relationships with students at Annetta Elementary, Officer Cassels goes above and beyond every day. She’s a positive presence on campus and a trusted leader in the Aledo ISD Police Department. She’s truly All in Aledo! Celebrated by Morningstar Development with a $1,000 award!
Special Programs Employee of the Year, Shelley Sweatt!
As a dyslexia teacher, Shelley brings unmatched energy, advocacy, and care to her students. She supports both kids and colleagues with a smile, a solution, and a sincere heart. Someone called her a “fabulous human”—and we couldn’t agree more. She’s Growing Greatness every day. Celebrated by PBK with a $1,000 award!
Technology Employee of the Year, Richard Pospech!
Richard may work behind the scenes, but his impact is felt districtwide every single day. Whether it’s phones, cameras, or internet, his dedication ensures our systems run smoothly and securely. He’s truly All in Aledo, solving complex challenges with professionalism and a positive spirit. Celebrated by Bearcat Backers with a $1,000 award!
Transportation Employee of the Year, John Stickels!
After a career in law, John chose to drive a Pre-K bus—and calls it the best job he’s ever had. He greets every student with energy, kindness, and care, turning each ride into a joyful journey. He’s not just driving a bus; he’s Growing Greatness one student at a time. Celebrated by CORE Construction with a $1,000 award!