Hempstead ISD

This team, made up of both teachers and paraprofessionals, plays a critical role in the implementation of the Hempstead Elementary School Turnaround Plan. While their work may often happen behind the scenes, its impact is felt in every classroom, every lesson, and every student interaction throughout the day.

Daily, this team ensures that every classroom teacher is provided with both a planning period and a conference period, which is essential for collaboration, lesson design, and instructional preparation. By creating this time, they are directly supporting stronger, more intentional teaching, which ultimately leads to improved student outcomes.

At the same time, they are enriching the student experience by providing structured, engaging opportunities beyond the core classroom instruction. From organized play and physical education to art, music, library services, technology, and social-emotional learning, these staff members ensure that students receive a well-rounded educational experience that supports both academic growth and overall well-being.

Their impact doesn’t stop there.

This team also plays a key role in maintaining the flow of the school day. By managing and leading student transitions with consistency and care, they help minimize disruptions and maximize instructional time. Due to their efforts, students move seamlessly throughout their daily rotations, allowing core content teachers to focus on what matters most: uninterrupted, high-quality instruction.

Their commitment, flexibility, and teamwork are the backbone of daily operations on campus. They show up each day ready to serve, support, and uplift both students and staff.

Hempstead ISD is proud to recognize these nine individuals as our February Higher Heights Award recipients. Their work is vital, their impact is undeniable, and their dedication is helping our school community continue to rise.

Staff Reflections

Maria Barrios
SEL Teacher at Hempstead Elementary School

I believe my work has had a meaningful impact by creating a safe and supportive environment where students feel comfortable expressing their emotions. I work towards building trust so they know they can come to me openly, especially during challenging moments. Being a safe outlet for students is something I take pride in, as it allows them to feel heard, understood, and valued. I also make an effort to encourage students to step outside of their comfort zones, helping them stay open-minded and confident when trying new things.

What motivates me to go above and beyond in my role is the impact I see on my students' emotional growth and confidence. When students begin to open up and believe in themselves, it reminds me why this work is so important. I’m also motivated by the opportunity to support the whole child, not just academically, but socially and emotionally, so they can succeed in all areas of their lives.

Receiving the Higher Heights award reflects the relationships I’ve built with my students and the small everyday efforts to support their growth.

Mandy Dempsey
Librarian at Hempstead Elementary School

My work as the librarian impacts students every single day.  I am proud of the fact that students are eager to come to the library to check out new books and hear new stories read to them each week.

The students are my motivation; to watch them blossom into readers is an amazing experience to witness. Having students wanting to discuss books and connect those stories to their lives is special and lets me know I am making an impact in their lives.

Receiving the Higher Heights Award is an honor, and I am thankful my hard work has not gone unnoticed.

Tiffany Harrison
Music Teacher at Hempstead Elementary School

From the beginning of the year to now, I have seen music become meaningful and exciting to students who initially told me they hated it. To see students find joy, confidence, and purpose in music has made my heart most happy! 

Many of my students are excited to show me new musical skills they have learned or discovered they already have. Students look forward to music class and are disappointed if they are unable to come. These are moments that show me my efforts have purpose and meaning to my students. Some of them have found a safe space in my classroom. Knowing all of this keeps me going. Ready and excited for each day. 

I have never done anything I do for recognition. I simply aim to make a difference. However, knowing that others see and appreciate my efforts means more than what can be put into words. 

Hermalinda Irwin
Technology Paraprofessional at Hempstead Elementary School

I believe my work has made a meaningful impact by providing consistent academic and behavioral support to students each day. I set high expectations in the classroom, especially when it comes to the IXL, personalized learning program. I strongly encourage my students not to settle for the minimum requirements but to push themselves to complete as many skills as possible and earn multiple certificates. I consistently motivate them to strive for growth and excellence, and I celebrate their achievements along the way. By supporting teachers and maintaining a structured, encouraging environment, I help create a classroom culture focused on effort, accountability, and success.

My students are my greatest motivation. I see their potential, even when they may not see it themselves. That is why I push them to give their best effort every day. I encourage them to challenge themselves, work through difficult tasks, and take pride in earning achievements like IXL certificates. Watching their confidence grow as they accomplish more than they thought possible inspires me to continue going above and beyond.

Receiving the Higher Heights Award is a true honor. It means that my dedication to holding students to high standards, encouraging academic growth, and supporting my colleagues is recognized and valued. It represents the hard work, persistence, and commitment I bring to HES every day. Most importantly, it reflects the positive impact we make together as a school community in helping students reach higher and achieve more.

Sharon Kent
P.E. Paraprofessional at Hempstead Elementary School

As a P.E. paraprofessional, I strive to create a safe, positive, and encouraging environment where every student feels seen and valued. I work hard to support not only students' physical development, but also their confidence, teamwork skills, and sportsmanship. I believe that when students feel successful in P.E., it carries over into their classrooms and daily lives. I also aim to be a dependable and supportive team member for staff by stepping in where needed and maintaining a positive attitude. I hope my consistency, energy, and care help strengthen our school community.

The students motivate me every single day. Seeing their growth, whether it's learning a new skill, building confidence, or simply smiling and having fun. It reminds me why I do what I do. I know that some students may not always feel successful academically, so I want P.E. to be a place where they can shine. I am motivated by the opportunity to make a difference, even in small ways, and to be a positive role model they can trust and look up to.

Receiving the Higher Heights Award is truly an honor. It represents recognition of the heart, effort, and dedication I put into my work each day. It means that the time and care I invest in our students and school community are seen and valued. This award encourages me to continue striving for excellence and to keep pushing myself to reach even higher for our students.

Autumn Mata
Art Paraprofessional at Hempstead Elementary School

I believe my work has helped students feel confident, seen, and capable of expressing themselves in ways they may not always be able to do with words. In the art room, students are encouraged to take creative risks, problem-solve, and celebrate their individuality. I hope that the creativity and confidence students build in art class carry with them into their classrooms, their homes, and our community.

Watching students who come into my room unsure of themselves slowly realize that they can create something they are proud of. I see many students who struggle academically or behaviorally find success in the art room, sometimes for the first time all day. When a student who usually shuts down finishes a project and says, “I didn’t think I could do this,” that moment stays with me. I go the extra mile because I want the art room to be a place where every child feels capable, valued, and safe to try even when it’s hard. Knowing that I can help change how a student sees themselves, not only how they draw or paint, is what pushes me to keep improving my lessons, my classroom environment, and the way I support both students and teachers every day.

Receiving the Higher Heights Award is truly an honor. It represents the trust and support of my colleagues and administration, and it reassures me that the work I put into my students and our school is making a difference. This award motivates me to continue striving for excellence, to keep growing as an educator, and to keep providing a creative, encouraging, and inspiring space for every student who walks into my classroom.

Greivis Rumaldo
P.E. Paraprofessional at Hempstead Elementary School

My greatest desire is that every student who crosses my path feels loved, heard, and valued. Each day, I strive to make sure they know that someone truly believes in them and genuinely cares about their well-being. I want to be the teacher who leaves a lasting mark on their hearts, especially for those children who need support and kindness the most. I hope that when they become adults, they will remember that there was someone who encouraged them, supported them, and never stopped believing in their potential. I strongly believe that when we plant seeds of love and confidence in a child, we are shaping not only a better student but a better person for our community.

I am driven by a heart for service, and I deeply believe in helping others without expecting anything in return. My motto is, “If you do not live to serve, you do not serve to live,” a quote by author María Teresa de Carcuta. This belief guides both my life and my vocation. It inspires me to always give a little more, with dedication, patience, and love.

Receiving the Higher Heights Award is a true blessing. It means that the love, effort, and passion I put into my work have not been in vain. I accept this recognition with humility and gratitude, and it encourages me to continue serving with the same commitment every day.

Cheryl Tumer
P.E. Coach at Hempstead Elementary School

I bring a positive attitude, a listening ear, and a measure of encouragement to the students that I serve. I am a team player who sees the positive side of things by supporting my colleagues at Hempstead Elementary. 

I am motivated when I see the joy and peace on the kids' faces, which makes me want to do the exact thing that they are asking of me. That's why we are here. We are here for the kids.  

Receiving the Higher Heights award is a blessing. For me, it's a message that says, " I see your dedication, and it has not gone unnoticed.

Tony Uvalle
P.E. Paraprofessional at Hempstead Elementary School

I believe my work as a P.E. Paraprofessional has helped students feel more confident, included, and willing to participate in physical activities. By encouraging and supporting them, I've seen them become more willing to participate and try new skills.

Creating a fun and exciting environment where all kids feel welcomed and included, and seeing all kids excited to come to P.E., lets me know I'm doing something right.

Receiving the Higher Heights award recognizes my hard work and dedication to supporting our students and motivates me to continue making a positive impact not only for our students but for our community.