MISD names 2024-25 Teachers of the Year

December 11 was a special day in Midlothian ISD as we celebrated the announcement of our 2024-25 Teachers of the Year for inspiring excellence in all that they do for students. Special thanks to Methodist Midlothian Medical Center for sponsoring our Teacher of the Year program.

Tammy Moore, T.E. Baxter Elementary
With an incredible 38 years of teaching experience, Mrs. Moore is not only a dedicated educator but also a proud lifelong Midlothian resident. She attended MISD schools K-12, graduated from MHS, and has been teaching in the district since 1987 thanks to an opportunity from MISD’s first alternative certification program.

“I’ve NEVER wanted to go anywhere else,” she shares. “It was my district growing up and I love being a part of this community as much as I loved being a student here.”

Mrs. Moore’s legacy spans generations with connections to beloved MISD leaders and educators like T.E. Baxter, LaRue Miller and Dolores McClatchey. Her journey is a testament to the pride of our MISD family and community.

Megan Smith, Jean Coleman Elementary
Now in her 9th year of teaching, Ms. Smith has dedicated her entire career to inspiring excellence in Midlothian ISD. “I chose MISD because of the relationships I have built with my colleagues and families,” she shares.

A proud graduate of Texas A&M, Ms. Smith is an exceptional teacher. Over the years, she has taught both third and fourth grade and is now thriving in her second year as a co-teach model classroom educator.

Kayleigh Jenkins, J.R. Irvin Elementary
With 13 years of teaching experience, 12 of those in Midlothian ISD, Mrs. Jenkins has made a lasting impact on students and colleagues alike. She chose MISD because the community values education and the district fosters innovation and supports the growth of both students and educators– principles that align perfectly with her teaching philosophy.

One of Mrs. Jenkins' most memorable career highlights was receiving the Outstanding Leadership Award in 2003 during her time at Frank Seale Middle School. She proudly recalls coaching her Lady Cubs to a combined 16 district championships across basketball, volleyball and track– moments that were about much more than winning. “Those moments weren’t just about winning—they were about seeing kids grow, believe in themselves, and achieve things they didn’t think were possible,” she shares.

Donna Garcia, Longbranch Elementary
A 17-year veteran educator, including the last 10 in Midlothian ISD, Mrs. Garcia brings unmatched dedication and expertise to her classroom. She chose MISD to be a part of its vibrant community and to ensure her own child could benefit from the district’s strong and successful schools.

Mrs. Garcia’s impressive accomplishments include roles as a Lead Teacher, Class Dojo Ambassador, Curriculum Writer, ELA Literacy Framework Member and a TIA Master Designated Teacher. She has also been recognized two additional times as a Teacher of the Year Nominee.

Lee Hogue, Dolores W. McClatchey Elementary
Throughout his 12 years of teaching, all of which have been in Midlothian ISD, Mr. Hogue has exemplified what it means to inspire and uplift students. His student teaching experience in MISD at Mt. Peak Elementary solidified his commitment and connection to the district, as he experienced our dedication to empowering educators and fostering excellence in the classroom. As a Midlothian resident, he also entrusts MISD with the education of his own children.

Mr. Hogue has brought innovation to the classroom throughout his time with MISD. He has served as a coach for robotics and Math Pentathlon teams, and earlier in his career as a 5th-grade math teacher at Mt. Peak he secured a $1,600 grant for the Reflex Math Fact Fluency Program. His dedication to MISD students has been unwavering. 

He shares, “I have never felt more fulfilled than I do at present, having discovered a profound passion for engaging with, mentoring, and educating MISD students.” 

Brooke Morrison, LaRue Miller Elementary
Mrs. Morrison has 16 years of experience in education, serving at various levels, including classroom teacher, instructional coach, and principal, before joining Midlothian ISD two years ago. She truly exemplifies excellence in education. 

When asked why she chose Midlothian ISD, she shared, “The culture is one of the absolute best! This district is hands down one of the most family-oriented and enjoyable places I have ever worked.”

Amber Sparks, Mt. Peak Elementary
Mrs. Sparks truly embodies the spirit of Midlothian ISD. She has dedicated 15 exceptional years of service to the field of education—all at Mt. Peak—and is a proud MHS graduate. She reflects, “I knew I wanted to continue to be a part of the district that welcomed me with open arms and gave me a place to be successful (as a student).” Ms. Sparks began her journey in education as a student-teacher at Mt. Peak and has since built a lasting legacy in the MISD community. 

Jennifer Knight, J.A. Vitovsky Elementary
With 15 years of experience in education, including six incredible years at Midlothian ISD, Mrs. Knight has made a profound impact on her students and the JAV community. She first came to MISD with the desire to work closer to home and reduce her two-hour daily commute. That choice reflects her dedication to both her career and family and, most importantly, has led to a fulfilling career where she is making a difference in the educational journey of her students. 

Mrs. Knight brought a wealth of experience from her corporate background to her role as an educator and is actively involved in various MISD committees, including the Superintendent Teacher Advisory Council, Curriculum Adoption Committee, and District Calendar Committee. She also serves as the Midlothian Education Foundation (MEF) Ambassador for Vitovsky.

Marc Manwarren, Dieterich Middle School
With 11 years of experience in education, including a remarkable journey from professional baseball player to customer service manager, and now a beloved Special Education teacher, Mr. Manwarren exemplifies dedication and resilience. He began his path in education as a paraprofessional in Midlothian ISD, and the commitment he shows toward his students inspires excellence.

Beloved by his students, fellow staff members, and parents alike, he goes beyond academics to foster individual growth. He supports students and their needs to build confidence and create an environment that allows students to reach amazing heights. His impact extends far outside the classroom, making him a well-respected figure in our school community.

Brandy Corona, Frank Seale Middle School
Mrs. Corona has been a dedicated educator for nine years, with the last five inspiring Midlothian ISD students. After moving to the area in 2016 as a parent of an MISD student, she was inspired by the care and quality of education her son received and knew, as an educator, she wanted to be a part of that incredible culture. 

Mrs. Corona shares, “I choose to teach at MISD because it is a rewarding environment for learning and growth where I feel valued.” 

Her commitment shines through, not only in her teaching but also in her previous role as a cafeteria worker while pursuing her education. As a TIA Recognized teacher and a two-time nominee for Teacher of the Year, Mrs. Corona clearly demonstrates her passion for making a difference in her students' lives.

Eric Craddock, Walnut Grove Middle School
Throughout his 28 years of teaching, including the last 10 in Midlothian ISD, Mr. Craddock has been passionate about education. As the WGMS theatre director, he shines a bright light on the value of the arts. Mr. Craddock shares, “I absolutely love my students and feel supported by their parents, campus staff, admin, the district admin team, and Board of Trustees. This is the best place to work!”

Mr. Craddock’s pride in MISD runs deep—both of his children are graduates of Midlothian High School, and his son, Luke, is now following in his footsteps as the Theatre Director at Midlothian Heritage High School!

Hannah Davenport, The MILE
With three years of teaching experience and a strong passion for culinary arts, Mrs. Davenport inspires her students to build confidence and skills in the kitchen. “I really enjoy working with the kids and seeing how much they grow throughout the year,” she shares. “It’s amazing to see how proud they are of themselves for learning how to cook and bake.”

A graduate of the Art Institute of Dallas, Mrs. Davenport brings more than 12 years of experience in the restaurant industry to her classroom. Her expertise and enthusiasm make her a vital part of the district’s Career and Technology programs at The MILE.

Jason Crawford, Heritage High School
With 29 years of experience in education, including the last three in Midlothian ISD, Coach Crawford is dedicated to helping students excel both academically in the classroom and athletically on the field. “My students inspire me with their dedication,” he shares. “The strong sense of community support allows me to build meaningful connections with students, parents and colleagues.”

As both a teacher and coach, Coach Crawford focuses on helping students succeed in all aspects of life. “Whether they’re tackling a test or pushing through a tough practice, I aim to show my students how to face adversity head-on, never giving up and always striving to be their best,” he says.

George Bolton, Midlothian High School
With 4 years in education, including 2.5 in MISD, LTC Bolton leads the JROTC program, helping students develop leadership skills and build a foundation for future success. Thanks to his efforts, MISD secured funding from the U.S. Department of Defense to further support the district’s program.

"I chose to join MISD because of the professionalism and dedication of the community, district, and school leaders, as well as their energetic and positive approach to building a JROTC program," he shares.

A third-generation educator and retired Army officer, LTC Bolton’s military career includes deployments to Afghanistan, Iraq, Kuwait, Poland, Korea, Lithuania, and Atlanta, Georgia. As a U.S. Army Ranger and Paratrooper, he brings unparalleled experience and dedication to his students and the JROTC program. A proud member of Omega Delta Phi, LTC Bolton also dedicates himself to serving others, logging over 300 community service hours each year.