East Central ISD Names 2025–2026 District Teachers of the Year, Celebrating Educators Who Shape the Future of Southeast Bexar County
In a district where classrooms stretch across growing neighborhoods in Southeast Bexar County, the work of a teacher often shapes more than a single school year — it shapes futures. East Central Independent School District (East Central ISD) has officially named its 2025–2026 District Teachers of the Year, recognizing three educators whose daily work is strengthening students, families, and the community as a whole.
Amanda Torres, a fourth-grade teacher at Highland Forest Elementary, has been named the East Central ISD District Teacher of the Year. Joining her in this recognition are Alaric Chaney of Pecan Valley STEM Academy, named Elementary Teacher of the Year, and Valerie Robinson of the Restorative Transition Center / Bexar County Learning Center, named Secondary Teacher of the Year.
For families across East Central ISD, this recognition is more than a title — it represents the educators entrusted with preparing the next generation of graduates, leaders, and skilled professionals in the San Antonio area.
A Commitment to High-Quality Education in East Central ISD
Amanda Torres’ journey into education began with a belief that continues to guide her work today. “I became an educator because I believe every child deserves a high-quality education,” Torres shared.
That philosophy resonates strongly in East Central ISD, a district known for serving a diverse and growing student population in the greater San Antonio region. At Highland Forest Elementary, Torres is recognized for her commitment to student success, collaboration with colleagues, and dedication to lifelong learning — qualities that extend beyond test scores and into the daily confidence her students build in her classroom.
In fast-growing districts like ECISD, where new families continue moving into Southeast San Antonio and surrounding communities, classroom stability and strong teacher leadership play a critical role in academic performance, campus culture, and long-term student achievement. Honoring educators like Torres reflects the district’s focus on maintaining instructional excellence as the community evolves.
Recognizing Excellence Across Elementary and Secondary Campuses
In addition to Torres’ districtwide honor, East Central ISD recognized two campus leaders whose work spans unique educational environments.
Alaric Chaney of Pecan Valley STEM Academy was named Elementary Teacher of the Year. As part of a campus centered on science, technology, engineering, and math education, Chaney supports students in building critical thinking skills that prepare them for both middle school and future career pathways in high-demand fields.
At the secondary level, Valerie Robinson of the Restorative Transition Center / Bexar County Learning Center was named Secondary Teacher of the Year. Her role supports students navigating alternative learning pathways, demonstrating the district’s commitment to meeting students where they are and ensuring every learner has access to opportunity.
Together, these three educators represent the breadth of East Central ISD’s academic programs — from traditional elementary classrooms to STEM-focused learning environments and restorative transition settings that provide additional student support.
Why Teacher Recognition Matters in Growing San Antonio Area School Districts
As East Central ISD continues to serve families across Southeast Bexar County, recognizing outstanding teachers reinforces what many parents already know: strong educators are at the heart of student success.
Teacher of the Year programs highlight instructional excellence, but they also strengthen community pride. For homeowners, families, and local businesses, high-performing schools contribute to neighborhood stability and long-term property value confidence. For students, these recognitions spotlight role models who demonstrate leadership, empathy, and academic rigor.
East Central ISD’s announcement highlights the district’s broader mission — ensuring that every student, regardless of campus or circumstance, has access to quality instruction and meaningful support.
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What Happens Next
District Teachers of the Year often advance to regional recognition through the Texas Teacher of the Year program, administered by the Texas Association of School Administrators. As East Central ISD’s honorees move forward, they will represent not only their campuses, but the entire ECISD community.
For families searching for information about East Central ISD schools, Teacher of the Year announcements, or academic programs in Southeast San Antonio, this recognition serves as a reminder of the talent and dedication present in local classrooms.
East Central ISD congratulated Torres, Chaney, and Robinson for their outstanding achievements and thanked them for the meaningful difference they make in students’ lives every day.
As the 2025–2026 school year unfolds, their influence will continue to be felt far beyond their classrooms — in report cards, graduation stages, and the everyday confidence of students across the district.
For continued updates on East Central ISD news, school recognitions, and community developments impacting local families, stay connected with My Neighborhood News.
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.