Veronica Phillips

Giant Staff Member of the Month

Our Giant Staff Member of the Month for November 2025 is Veronica Phillips, AVID Teacher at Goose Creek Memorial High School.

Mrs. Phillips is the kind of educator whose influence reaches far beyond the classroom. A teacher whose passion and professionalism leave a lasting mark on the students she serves. She is firm yet inspiring, sophisticated yet fun, and a true model of what a dedicated educator should be.

A former student shared how middle school was a turbulent time filled with bullying, drama, and struggles at home. Through it all, Mrs. Phillips saw her—truly saw her. She asked how she was doing, welcomed her into her classroom during lunch when she needed safety, and reminded her daily of the importance of education. “She inspired me to work hard in my studies,” the student shared. “She is my ultimate inspiration.”

Mrs. Phillips has made an impact not only in her classroom, but across the district and beyond. After serving many years as an AVID teacher at Lee High School, she left briefly only to be recruited back to GCCISD to launch the AVID program at E.F. Green. Under her leadership, the program flourished, earning National Demonstration School status within just three years, a testament to her expertise and ability to build strong systems of support for students. Today, she continues to uplift AVID programs as both an AVID Coordinator and a National AVID Staff Developer, guiding educators across the country in best practices for student success.

Now at Goose Creek Memorial High School, Mrs. Phillips brings that same compassion and excellence to Goose Creek Memorial High School as an AVID teacher. AVID (Advancement Via Individual Determination) is a nationally recognized program that equips students with the skills and strategies necessary for success in higher education and beyond. Mrs. Phillips embodies everything AVID stands for: high expectations, meaningful support, and a belief in every student’s potential.

Her passion for teaching is unmistakable. She exudes a deep love for helping students find confidence in themselves and their future. Mrs. Phillips is not only shaping scholars, but she is also changing lives.

Thank you to Houston Methodist Baytown Hospital for sponsoring this award.