A Diverse Journey Leads to the Classroom
Coastal Bend names Ray High School teacher Pedro Benavidez, whose journey included medicine, research, and construction before discovering education.
“I leaped,” Benavidez said, reflecting on his transition into teaching. His turning point came when he realized he enjoyed training others. That realization led him to an alternative certification program and, eventually, the classroom. Now, his impact on students and the education community has earned him the title of Secondary Regional Teacher of the Year for the Coastal Bend.
Elementary Winner Builds a Foundation of Curiosity
Joining Benavidez in recognition, Lauren Jardine, a pre-kindergarten teacher from London Elementary School, also earned top honors. She was named the Elementary Regional Teacher of the Year. Furthermore, with a degree in early childhood education from Arizona State University, she emphasizes the importance of creating a supportive setting that nurtures curiosity, independence, and meaningful connections.
Education Service Center Region 2 Executive Director Esperanza Zendejas described Jardine as a dedicated early childhood educator. Jardine promotes equity and builds a classroom environment where every child feels encouraged to explore and grow.
From Regional Honor to Statewide Recognition
Districts across the Coastal Bend submitted nominations, and the selection committee chose these two honorees from that pool. The Education Service Center Region 2, which serves the region, oversaw the selection process. Now, both Jardine and Benavidez are eligible to compete for the prestigious title of Texas Teacher of the Year alongside other regional winners from across the state.
Benavidez, in particular, hopes to inspire students beyond the realm of chemistry. “I enjoy it when my students are fascinated by science,” he said. “But more than anything, I want them to remain curious—for life.” He believes that public education is a pillar of the American Dream, emphasizing its role in serving all students, regardless of their background.
Celebrating Leadership and Governance in Education
The annual awards didn’t stop with teachers. Region 2 also named Eddie Hesseltine, Superintendent of Orange Grove Independent School District, as the Regional Superintendent of the Year. Furthermore, the Port Aransas ISD Board of Trustees received the honor of the Regional School Board of the Year for their exemplary leadership and service to their community.
Looking ahead, Zendejas shared that Region 2 plans to include a Charter School Teacher of the Year category in 2025 to broaden recognition across all types of campuses.
A Regional Snapshot: Educators Making a Difference
School districts across the region nominated educators for their outstanding work in both elementary and secondary education alongside the top honorees:
- Corpus Christi ISD: Amalia Barragan (Creekside Elementary) and Pedro Benavidez (Ray High School)
- London ISD: Lauren Jardine (London Elementary) and Amy Lewallen (London High School)
- Flour Bluff ISD: Nicole Biggerstaff and Amanda Zartuche
- Gregory-Portland ISD: Olivia Banda and Kristie Hayward
- Beeville ISD: Aliza Carabajal and Mandy Vasquez
- Rockport-Fulton ISD: Leslie Glenn and Warren Mitchell
- …and many more across the Coastal Bend.
These educators exemplify dedication and creativity in classrooms every day, shaping future generations one student at a time.
Conclusion: A Region Proud of Its Educators
This year’s Regional Teacher of the Year awards highlight the diverse talents and inspiring stories of educators across the Coastal Bend. Coastal Bend names outstanding teachers whose unique journeys show that passion and dedication can lead to the classroom in many ways.
As state competition begins, Coastal Bend proudly celebrates and supports its education champions representing the region.