On Monday, May 12, Sandra Alvarez, interventionist paraprofessional at Hempstead Elementary School, was surprised by Texas Education Agency (TEA) representatives, her family, and campus and district administrators.
Alvarez expressed her deep appreciation for the recognition. "I love working in Hempstead ISD and helping our emergent bilingual students move forward," she shared.
Alvarez was nominated and chosen for the Title III Symposium Spirit Award. The award recognizes the exceptional contribution of any paraprofessional or support staff currently working in a Title III-funded school, specifically for their support to emergent bilingual (EB) students.
The nomination came as a surprise to Alvarez. According to Bilingual/ESL Director, Maggy Paramore, “Ms. Alvarez is truly one of a kind.” “Her dedication to our students is unmatched, whether she’s helping them close academic gaps or supporting our newcomer students with care and compassion. Even after the school day ends, she continues to make a difference by teaching adult ESL classes twice a week. Her passion for education and her commitment to uplifting our community are something we are all inspired by.”
Alvarez consistently holds high expectations for emergent bilingual (EB) students by providing individualized instruction and creating customized resources to meet their various needs. She always tailors her support to ensure each student thrives. Her positive attitude and genuine care foster a welcoming learning environment, motivating students to excel.
She also collaborates closely with teachers across grade levels to differentiate lessons, actively engaging in professional learning communities, and remains open to feedback. Her passion for student success shines through not only in her instruction but also in the way she celebrates progress and encourages growth through student-centered reward systems.
Beyond the classroom, Alvarez is a strong advocate for family engagement. Her efforts volunteering with the Hempstead ISD Adult ESL classes help bridge the gap between school and home, empowering parents to support their children’s education.
Alvarez will be recognized at the 2025 Title III Symposium, which will take place July 15-17 in San Antonio, Texas. The symposium is a conference where educators, administrators, and support staff gather to exchange ideas, share best practices, and discuss strategies for supporting emergent bilingual students.