Spring ISD Honors 583 Teachers with Over $8 Million in State Incentives Through Teacher Incentive Allotment
A wave of pride swept through The Woodlands Waterway Marriott Hotel & Convention Center as Spring Independent School District celebrated the achievements of 583 teachers during its annual Teacher Incentive Allotment (TIA) Celebration. The event, held Wednesday evening, honored educators who either earned their first TIA designation or reached a higher designation level, collectively receiving more than $8.4 million in state-funded awards.
The TIA program, developed by the Texas Education Agency (TEA), aims to attract, retain, and reward highly effective teachers across the state. At Spring ISD, the celebration brought together district leaders, teachers, families, and community members in a show of appreciation for the transformative role educators play in student success.
“This year, 583 Spring ISD teachers earned a TIA designation—89 at the Recognized level, 222 at the Exemplary level, and 272 at the Master level—totaling $8,444,627 in state-funded incentives,” said Dr. Terrell King, Spring ISD Chief of Human Resource Services, who emceed the evening. “These awards average $14,000 per teacher, with individual amounts ranging from $4,008 to $28,239, providing well-deserved recognition for the dedication and excellence our teachers demonstrate in Spring ISD classrooms every day.”
Celebrating Excellence Across Houston's Education Landscape
Held in the heart of the Greater Houston area, the celebration featured networking, dinner, and tributes from Spring ISD students, whose video messages drew smiles and applause. Teachers were called to the stage to be recognized for their hard work and achievements—an emotional reminder that teaching is not just a profession, but a commitment to shaping lives.
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Board of Trustees President Justine Durant thanked the honorees, describing teachers as “mentors, advocates, and leaders who inspire students to dream bigger and achieve more.” Newly appointed Superintendent Dr. Kregg Cuellar echoed those sentiments, calling the TIA a strategic investment in both teachers and students. “Whether Recognized, Exemplary, or Master, each of you lifts our entire district,” Cuellar said. “By being together in culture and together in accountability, we move closer to our shared goal—of being an A by May.”
Stories of Impact: Teachers Who Go Above and Beyond
Among those honored were several educators whose personal journeys reflect the heart and resilience of the Spring ISD teaching community.
From Reynolds Elementary School, bilingual math and science teacher Edgar Chapa earned the Master designationafter two decades in education. “Receiving the Master designation recognition means so much to me,” said Chapa. “Teaching bilingual math and science is challenging, but seeing my students succeed makes every bit of hard work worthwhile. My goal is to help students grow, and receiving this award is a moment of great pride for me.”
At Dekaney High School, U.S. History teacher Wallace Zimmerman, who transitioned from a 20-year career in business management to the classroom, was inspired by his mother to pursue education. “I’ve been teaching in Spring ISD for the past three years, and I truly love what I do,” said Zimmerman. “The most rewarding part is seeing the students’ faces light up when they’re amazed by what I’m teaching.”
Veteran educator Linda Julien from Northgate Crossing Elementary also received a Recognized designation. “This award means that I have had an impact on my students’ learning experience and their growth,” Julien said. “I have been teaching since 1998, and I believe education is a lifelong journey. As teachers, we can continue to grow, expand our knowledge, and make a lasting impact on children’s lives both inside and outside the classroom.”
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Rewarding Great Teaching Across Spring ISD
Spring ISD's participation in the Teacher Incentive Allotment continues to serve as a model for how school districts can meaningfully reward top educators, especially in areas of high need. By recognizing excellence with substantial financial incentives, the district is reinforcing its commitment to teacher quality and student achievement.
The event served not only as a recognition of past accomplishments but also as a promise of continued investment in the people who help shape Houston’s next generation of leaders.
For families and community members in Spring, Klein, and surrounding North Houston areas searching for terms like “Spring ISD teacher incentives,” “TIA designation Texas,” “how much do TIA teachers make,” or “Spring ISD teacher awards 2025,” this celebration showcased the power of rewarding educators who go the extra mile—and the difference it makes for every student in the classroom.
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.
