DeAnn Seal has been an Ag teacher in Weatherford ISD for 7 years and has grown into a dynamic leader and serves as the CTE department chair for WHS. She goes above and beyond to lead our FFA program to be the 23rd largest in the state and still growing. She works diligently to prepare students for all certifications possible in her program of study. She is extremely innovative in the classroom with hands on projects and always seeking the latest technology to ensure all students are engaged and succeed to their highest potential. From the classroom to the show ring she dedicates her time day in and day out to grow our students and ensure they are receiving certifications, banners, and internships. She has built dynamic industry partners to help place almost 20 students in paid and unpaid internships each year in our practicum of agriculture course. She goes above and beyond to help students build and see their vision as a future leader in the agriculture industry. 

Charity McConnell joined the teaching profession in 2020 as a teacher with GCISD. Prior to becoming a teacher she worked as a fire inspector and crime scene investigator for more than 15 years in the Las Vegas, Nev., area.

“It has been my mission to reach at least ‘just one’ young person and make a difference in their life,” McConnell said. Now that she is in the classroom, she said that this “mission has transitioned to every one of my students being the ‘just one’ and I feel honored to be recognized for the hard work and dedication I have put forth to career and technical education for the students of GCISD and the community.”

During her time in GCISD’s Law and Public Services program, she has developed a highly sought-after program, which offers criminal investigation and law enforcement courses as well as a practicum in law, public safety corrections and security. Students can also earn certifications in various areas and McConnell has established partnerships with local colleges as well as fire and police departments. Additionally, a 911 operator training center was added on campus this school year.

The Career and Technical Educators of North Texas is proud to announce that Monica Paul, CTE Counselor Specialist at Wylie ISD is the recipient of the 2022/23 CTENT Guidance Counselor of the Year. This award recognizes school counselors and career development professionals who have demonstrated commitment to connecting students with opportunities for success, shown innovation in career exploration and development and have advocated for all students.

Paul has spearheaded the Wylie ISD House Bill 5 program – “I Have a Plan”…a multi-tiered program that includes, course handbooks, career videos, career investigation parent nights, endorsement preview days, industry-based certifications, and other career related educational opportunities.

Paul also is influential in building numerous industry relationships and coordinating with the Wylie Economic Development, Chamber of Commerce, Rotary Club, Collin College, and countless company and industry representatives. Monica Paul’s knowledge as a classroom instructor and extensive experience as a  career counselor serves as a foundation of guiding students at the highest level and preparing them for the future. Paul works to continuously to implement and improve WISD CTE programs so students can fulfill their vocational dreams.

Allison has been an educator in Birdville ISD for the past 35 years. She is a product of Birdville ISD as a graduate of the district and comes from a family of Birdville educators, including her mother and father who served the district, with her mother as a Family and Consumer Science teacher and her father as a teacher, coach, and principal. 

Allison is the definition of a servant leader and is committed to providing all students with the opportunities to develop their interests and talents in pursuing their college and career goals. Her educational mantra for CTE is that students have choice, which goes back to the CTE positions that she has served over the years, including Counselor and CTE Liaison, CTE Coordinator, and now as CTE Director for the district. 

She was privileged and honored to serve on the Birdville Center of Technology and Advanced Learning Charrette (Architectural Planning) Committee and helped open Birdville Center of Technology and Advanced Learning in 2009. 

Allison has also been an active member of CTAT and has served on the CTAT Board of Directors as well as providing leadership for CTENT, where she has served in leadership positions for the region, including President and Treasurer. 

Allison’s positivity and gracious spirit to serve has been of tremendous benefit to Birdville ISD and the community over the years. Her belief is that every student can be successful if provided the opportunity to do so, and she lives that belief on a daily basis.