By: Dr. Anna Espinoza, Director of Education Foundation & Partnerships
The Goose Creek CISD Education Foundation proudly hosted its sixteenth annual Students’ Choice Awards Banquet on February 25, 2025, an evening dedicated to celebrating teachers who have made a lasting impact on their students’ lives.
1. Gracie Gaskey, Stuart Career Technical HS; Kelly Mills, Stuart Career Technical HS; Jessica Pantoja, Ross S. Sterling HS; Ashley Finnerty, Ross S. Sterling HS; Alison Hernandez, Stuart Career Technical HS; Rex Miller, Stuart Career Technical HS;a Katherine Barrientes, Ross S. Sterling HS; Randi Dodson, Ross S. Sterling HS; Keylin Arroyo, Ross S. Sterling HS; and Stacey Mullins, Cedar Bayou Junior HS. 2. Adrienne Schoppe, IMPACT Early College HS; Lawreenbelle Yuipco, IMPACT Early College HS; Drake Pryor Newman, Horace Mann Junior HS; Kevin Puente, IMPACT Early College HS; Melanie Nichols, Ross S. Sterling HS; Raye Lovell, Robert E. Lee HS; Cheyanne Barber, Ross S. Sterling HS; Robert Richard, Highlands Junior HS; Jessica Sosa, Alamo Elementary School; and Alyssa Rostron, Ross S. Sterling HS. 3.Steven Denton, Ross S. Sterling HS; Ashlee Acker, Ross S. Sterling HS; Xavier Goodley, Ross S. Sterling HS; Anitria Collette, Crockett Elementary School; Kenia Pena, Robert E. Lee HS; J. Marie Brookreson, Robert E. Lee HS; Siliva Torres, Ross S. Sterling HS; Lori Alexander, Ross S. Sterling HS; Rudy Patterson, Stuart Career Technical HS; and Ernest Byson, Stuart Career Technical HS.
This year, 490 letters were submitted by graduating seniors, sharing stories of encouragement, perseverance, and inspiration. From these heartfelt nominations, 15 teachers were selected for their outstanding commitment to their students’ success.
The letters captured the power of connection between teachers and students. Abigail Lovell, a senior at Robert E. Lee High School, reflected on the difference her middle school theater teacher, Mr. Robert Richards, made in her life:
“He was the light in the dark tunnels of middle school... as soon as it was time for theater class or after school practice, it would all disappear, I could be whoever I wanted to be, I could be my very best and it would be enough.”
Her words capture the spirit of the evening — a celebration of teachers who help students find their way.
Held at IMPACT Early College High School, the banquet featured entertainment by the Ross S. Sterling Reverb Show Choir, under the direction of Dylan Fornshell, adding energy and excitement to the program.
The event was made possible by the support of generous community partners. Texas Roadhouse provided dinner and gift certificates for all attendees while Aramark contributed desserts and service for guests. Pfluger Architects sponsored gift cards for the honored teachers and the students who nominated them, ensuring both groups felt appreciated. Personalized plaques, created by Awards & Engraving, offered each teacher a lasting keepsake.
Floral arrangements from Stuart Blooming Florists, the student-led business at Stuart Career Technical High School, brightened the room and showcased the talents of Goose Creek CISD students.
Each year, the Students’ Choice Awards reminds us that great teachers do more than teach — they shape futures. The GCCISD Education Foundation is proud to recognize these educators and their lasting impact on students, families, and the entire community.