For the 64th consecutive year, the Richardson Education Association recognizes RISD employees for years of dedicated service.
The REA spotlight this year is on Stephen Erwin for his 50 years of service to the district. Steve joined RISD as a social studies teacher at Lake Highlands Junior High and now serves in special programs, working with home bound special education students.
Part of the annual REA banquet is the celebration of the 2021 RISD STARS teachers. These 10 exceptional educators were selected through a comprehensive process facilitated by The Richardson ISD Foundation. This year’s teachers of year are Cassie Starnes of Greenwood Hills Elementary and Heather Pineda of Liberty Junior High.
The Leaders of the Heart awards for counselors of the year for 2020-21 are Erin Price at Forestridge Elementary and Marsha Hardin at Lake Highlands Junior High.
The RISD Nurse of the Year is Patty Bressler of Northwood Hills Elementary. The Red Apple Award, given to outstanding first-year teachers, was given to Nadia Williams of Audelia Creek Elementary and Priscilla Barboza of Liberty Junior High.
The TI Innovation STEM teaching award winners for 2020-21 are Tarshena Anozie of Forest Meadow Junior High and John Zancana of Pearce High School. The Fujitsu Trailblazer award winner for this year is Ashley Grimes from Richardson Terrace Elementary.
Elizabeth Swaner is the recipient of the 2020-21 Patti Kieker Servant Leader Award.
Congratulations to all the award winners and many thanks to the numerous longtime employees! #RISDGreatness
