Carla Johnson
Giant Staff Member of the Month
Our Giant Staff Member of the Month for March 2025 is Carla Johnson, teacher at Goose Creek Virtual Academy.
Carla has been a dedicated educator in Goose Creek CISD for many years, and her impact has been felt deeply across the district. She was an integral part of establishing the district’s Virtual Academy and had the honor of witnessing the first graduating class walk across the stage. Carla has worked with students from kindergarten through 12th grade, creating not just a welcoming environment but a true home for virtual scholars.
Carla’s heart is as big as her commitment to her students. She goes above and beyond to advocate for every scholar who enters the Virtual Academy, ensuring that each one feels supported and valued. Her consistent dedication and compassionate spirit inspire everyone who has the privilege of being taught by her or simply crossing her path. She is not only a phenomenal teacher but also a mentor, a friend, and an invaluable part of the Virtual Academy family.
Carla’s influence extends far beyond the virtual classroom. Her kindness, mentorship, and passion for student success light the way for her colleagues, setting a powerful example for educators across the district.
Thank you to Houston Methodist Baytown Hospital for sponsoring this award.
Shana Joseph
Giant Alumnus of the Month
Our Giant Alumnus of the Month for March 2025 is Shana Joseph, a proud graduate of Ross S. Sterling High School who continues to make a meaningful impact in her community.
Shana’s generosity and dedication have earned her recognition from The Baytown Sun for feeding the needy during the holidays. She has also been a finalist for multiple entries in Cream of the Crop for the past two years and won first place at The SURE Program’s Small Business Pitch Plan at the University of Houston for her food truck, Birdz Bitez.
Shana’s heart for service extends beyond her business. During severe weather, she used her food truck to serve full BBQ plates to those in need—even when her own home was without power. She continues to give back by feeding the homeless in Baytown and Houston during the holidays and surprising educators with meals and gifts during Teacher Appreciation Week. Her acts of kindness brighten the lives of so many in the community.
In addition to her charitable work, Shana mentors aspiring food truck owners and small business entrepreneurs, sharing her knowledge and experience to help others navigate their journeys. Her commitment to service, mentorship, and supporting her community continues to leave a lasting legacy.
Thank you to Houston Methodist Baytown Hospital for sponsoring this award.
Brian Contreras
Giant Student of the Month
Our Giant Student of the Month for March 2025 is Brian Contreras, senior at IMPACT Early College High School.
Brian is a quiet yet powerful force on campus. As a talented photographer and cinematographer, he works behind the scenes to capture the incredible moments happening at school and in the community. When IMPACT was working to become an AVID National Demonstration School, Brian stepped up to create the required school video. He coordinated interviews, captured authentic moments of students and teachers in action, scheduled and recorded key scenes, and brought the vision to life through exceptional editing and post-production work. His final product exceeded all expectations and was an essential piece in the school's journey to national recognition.
Despite his immense talent, Brian remains one of the most humble individuals you’ll ever meet. He works diligently, achieves remarkable things, yet often deflects praise and shines the spotlight on others. His kindness, dedication, and genuine character inspire everyone around him. Through his art, Brian touches lives and leaves a lasting impact—a gift that will continue to grow as he moves forward in life.
Brian is also a valued member of the district PR Squad, a team of student advocates focused on sharing stories of success and celebration. In this role, Brian has established himself as a go-to resource for photography and videography projects, including serving as the cinematographer for this year’s marketing video.
Brian’s commitment to excellence, service, and storytelling embodies what it means to be a Giant.
Thank you to Houston Methodist Baytown Hospital for sponsoring this award.