Rewarding Excellence

Melissa Contreras wins teacher of the year at Horizon High School going far and beyond for her students.

Article by: Victoria Alva and Yahir Pina

Once a year an award is given out to a special teacher for their excellence and performance at work. These teachers are presented with the ‘Teacher of the Year’ as their skills have not only improved students but others.

For the past 13 years, English teacher Melissa Contreras has continued to share her techniques among students at Horizon, improving each one of them and guiding them to overcome their abilities.  

“The Teacher of the Year award means that hard work pays off, it's not so much the stress of the job and what you do every day. It's the fruit of it, whatever you reap is what you’re gonna sow,” Melissa Contreras said.

Along with the obstacles Contreras overcame during her childhood and pursuing her career, the lessons taught not only built Contreras to push herself but to most importantly encouraged her students as well.

“During my childhood, one of the things I noticed is that I grew up bilingual, so I grew up here, and I would go to my grandma at Juarez. I grew up knowing both languages, which helped me pursue what I have now. Especially this year when I'm teaching ESL classes. It helps me appreciate the language and embrace both languages, not just one,” Contreras said.

During lessons the most important key is to always keep your students intact with the subject, Contreras uses her creativity and engaging activities to keep students attentive.  

“I would describe Mrs. Contreras class as a fun class and a learning environment. Her class has not only helped my English but also helped me pass my English STAAR tests,” senior Anette Chavira stated. 

Throughout the years Contreras develops strong connections with her students by providing a safe environment in which students feel comfortable.  Contreras has always shared a strong relationship with colleagues in her department, as they guide each other to become better teachers. 

 “Mrs. Contreras is different from other teachers, she always puts her students first despite what others may think of her kids, so she gets to know her kids. She can tell you about kids she had 5 years ago, and the kids she's come to know this school year,” English teacher Venice Chavez said.

Contreras always makes sure to keep open opportunities for each one of her students, making sure they keep up their motivation to achieve better and meet their accomplishments.

“My goal as a teacher is to always bring out the best in students. To always push them to their limits. That they know that they can always achieve more than their potential,” Contreras stated.