Joel Stewart Award of Excellence: Liza Reyes

It is a typical beginning for many staff members at The Westview School. Liza Reyes first came to Westview as a parent. Her son, Angel, was a student in the early childhood development class at The Westview School during the 2009-2010 school year.

Angel transitioned out of Westview at a young age, and Liza enrolled him in public school and full-time ABA. Liza was a huge advocate for her son as he progressed through various public and private programs. She saw a serious need for more trained special education teachers, especially those with passion and empathy towards students with autism.

She decided to go back to school to complete her degree. When she needed observation hours, Westview was the first place she turned. The observation hours turning into subbing, and in 2016, Liza took a full-time position at Westview as an assistant in Lower Elementary.

Liza has significantly impacted both students and co-workers at The Westview School through her six years on staff. Her positive attitude towards students and co-workers and her willingness to go above and beyond make it clear why Liza is such an asset to Westview.

One co-worker sang Liza's praises, saying, "Liza goes above and beyond in dedicating her time to help students thrive. She is always willing to lend support to students when they meet challenges by helping them reset with effective redirection strategies. She also tutors students outside of the classroom. Her hard work doesn't go unnoticed!"

In May of 2020, Liza graduated from the University of Houston in Interdisciplinary Studies with a minor in Communications. She immediately began working towards her Texas Teachers Certification in Special Education.

"Because of COVID-19, my college graduation was virtual," said Liza. "They are offering us the opportunity to walk and accept our diploma this summer, and I'm considering it. I want my girls to see what hard work can do."

Aside from her son, Angel, Liza also has two daughters, currently enrolled in college programs, pursuing nursing and special education degrees.

"I am proud that I can show my daughters the importance of hard work," said Liza, "I think it made an impact on them to see me work towards my degree and teaching certificate. I am proud to be an example to them."

Not only is Liza an example of dedication and hard work to her family, but Westview co-workers also notice. Many nominations for Liza came in praising her hard work in "raising the bar this year." "Liza has always been a fantastic assistant, but she really stepped up this school year. She took on the role of lead teacher when needed during the school year, and she stepped up and took on a leadership role for summer camp."

Liza will move to a lead teacher position in the Fall of 2021. She will be teaching one of Westview's three kindergarten classes.

"Kindergarten is such a fun age," said Liza. "Being a mom of a special needs child, I have a good understanding of Westview students, and I love being able to help our young kids. Kindergarten days are full, and there are a lot of opportunities for hands-on learning. I am so excited about lead teaching next year. I feel thankful that Westview gave me an opportunity to give back."

And, according to one Westview staffer, the feeling is mutual. "Liza loves our students and is a dedicated staff member. We are lucky to have her!"

Congratulations to Liza Reyes for being named the 2020-2021 Joel Stewart Award of Excellence, Teacher Assistant of the Year.