A 'Mama Bear' Teacher from Smith Middle School Wins Randalls Red Apple Award
For Sherrian Houston-Motley, teaching is more than a job; it's a calling. Known as the “mama bear” of Smith Middle School, this sixth-grade teacher was recently honored with the Randalls Red Apple Teacher of the Month Award for her unwavering dedication to her students and the community.
The surprise announcement came on November 11 when Houston-Motley, who was nominated by former student Conner Barnes, was presented the award by KHOU’s Great Day Houston host Deborah Duncan. "Randalls Food Markets is so very proud to sponsor this award program," said Christy Lara, Randalls’ director of public relations. "We are inspired by the Randalls Red Apple Award winners, and Mrs. Houston-Motley is no exception! She is positively shaping the future in our shared communities. Congratulations to her and Smith Middle School!”
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Houston-Motley’s journey into education is a testament to perseverance and passion. Coming from a family of educators, she didn’t enter teaching until 2015 after exploring careers in other fields. Starting as a paraprofessional at Smith Middle School, she quickly earned her teaching certification and transitioned into the classroom by 2019. She credits much of her success to Principal Becky Koop, who encouraged her to step out of her comfort zone.
"Mrs. Houston-Motley is the teacher students never forget," said Koop. "She says she is their ‘mama bear,’ and she demonstrates that in all she does. From her engaging lessons to the hundreds of hours she spends attending extracurricular activities, she makes a difference in the lives of our students every day."
Smith Middle School sixth grade teacher, Sherrian Houston-Motley, third from left, was presented with For Houston-Motley, the award is especially meaningful. “Teaching is more challenging than ever,” she shared. “This award came at a great time in my life and career. Teachers don’t get a lot of recognition for the long hours and extra work, but when students take time to celebrate us, it means more than I can explain.”
Her pride in her work is clear, especially as she reflects on her two adult sons, who both thrived in CFISD schools. Houston-Motley sees herself as part of a larger mission to pass on positivity and optimism to the next generation, ensuring that the impact she’s made will be felt for years to come.
In the words of her principal, “She’s the teacher students never forget.”
Tiffany Krenek has been on the My Neighborhood News team since August 2021. She is passionate about curating and sharing content that enriches the lives of our readers in a personal, meaningful way. A loving mother and wife, Tiffany and her family live in the West Houston/Cypress region.
