Round Rock ISD teachers and paraprofessionals are invaluable to the growth and development of our students and community. As they continue to do amazing things each day, we recognize our Teachers of the Year (TOY) and Paraprofessionals of the Year (POY) for their efforts to enhance teaching and learning and keep our students on the path toward a bright future.

Every year, each campus selects a TOY to recognize their contribution in the classroom and throughout the campus learning community. These teachers are up for a chance to be selected as the district’s Elementary TOY, announced in early May. District winners will have the opportunity to go on and compete for the region and state TOY title.

For the showcases, campus principals were asked to share a few words about their winners and what makes them great.

The district and Texas TOY program awards teachers until the next school year. Therefore, they are awarded and named TOY for the next year and not the current year.

Cecilia Carpio, Administrative Associate

“Cecy Carpio is an invaluable asset to Anderson Mill Elementary, making her the perfect choice for Paraprofessional of the Year. Beyond her role as an administrative associate, she consistently steps in to support any position in need, ensuring that students, staff, and parents receive the assistance they require. Cecy’s dedication goes beyond expectations—she is proactive, always seeking solutions before challenges arise. Her commitment to the success of the school is evident in everything she does, from fostering a positive learning environment to providing unwavering support for her colleagues. Anderson Mill Elementary is truly fortunate to have Cecy Carpio as part of its team.” – Amanda Molina, Anderson Mill Elementary Principal

Myrna Trevino, Intervention Paraprofessional

“She consistently goes above and beyond, showing flexibility and a genuine willingness to support everyone around her. Her love for our Berkman community is evident in everything she does, always ready to assist wherever needed. She builds strong connections with students, offering kind words and a warm smile as she works with them. Her positive attitude and her unwavering dedication to the students, staff, and families at Berkman are two things that set her apart. She’s always available to help, creating a sense of safety and comfort while fostering growth in everyone she encounters. Her rapport with students and parents is exceptional, and her enthusiasm and positivity make her a joy to be around. She takes on every responsibility effortlessly and always steps in to lend a hand. With her cheerful demeanor, she is a fantastic team player!” – April Nilson, Berkman Elementary Arts Integration Academy Principal

Mary Thibeault, Special Education Resource Inclusion

“I am honored to nominate Mary for Paraprofessional of the Year. She is an invaluable part of the Blackland Prairie team, consistently going above and beyond to support students and staff. Her kindness, dedication, and hard work make a profound impact on our school community. Mary’s compassion shines through in everything she does. She builds strong relationships with students, knows their goals, and tracks their progress with care. Her encouragement makes students feel valued, motivating them to learn and grow. She brings a positive presence to the classroom every day, providing unwavering support. Always the first to arrive, Mary is prepared, respectful, and eager to help in any way she can. Her commitment to student success and teamwork makes her an incredible asset to our campus. She truly deserves this recognition for her dedication and the difference she makes in so many lives.” – Jesica Borunda, Blackland Prairie Elementary Principal

Angelica Willis, Dual Language Pre-K Educational Asst

“Ms. Willis is an exceptional Ed. Assistant who is always dedicated to the overall well being of all Pre-K students at Bluebonnet. Ms. Willis does her job with a smile on her face and kind demeanor. The partnership she has with her lead teacher is exemplary.” – Sam Soto, Bluebonnet Elementary Principal

Frances Aponte, Pre-K Educational Assistant

“We are thrilled to recognize Ms. Aponte as our PreK EA Paraprofessional of the Year! She is an exceptional EA who goes above and beyond to build meaningful and lasting relationships with her Pre-K students. Her dedication, patience, and warmth create a nurturing environment where our youngest learners feel safe, valued, and excited to learn. Ms. Aponte works tirelessly alongside the classroom teacher, providing invaluable support and ensuring that every child receives the attention and guidance they need. Her commitment to fostering a positive, engaging, and structured learning space has made a lasting impact with her students. We are grateful for Ms. Aponte’s unwavering dedication and the love she pours into her work each and every day.” – Jenny Strong, Brushy Creek Elementary Principal

Heather Gray, Office Specialist

Heather Gray is an invaluable member of the Cactus Ranch Elementary community, making her the perfect choice for Paraprofessional of the Year. She greets every student by name each morning, fostering a welcoming, positive atmosphere that exemplifies the caring environment Cactus Ranch is known for. Beyond her warm greetings, Ms. Gray oversees the Cactus Ranch Corral, the weekly parent communication, ensuring families stay informed. She also manages the school’s postcard initiative, personally tracking each student to ensure they receive a positive postcard during the year, building strong connections with families. Ms. Gray is committed to the safety and security of the school, creating and enforcing visitor protocols to protect students and staff. Her proactive approach to campus safety demonstrates her responsibility and care for the well-being of everyone at Cactus Ranch. Her support for colleagues is equally remarkable. Always ready to lend a hand, Ms. Gray’s approachability and willingness to go above and beyond make her an invaluable resource to both staff and students. Heather Gray embodies the values of kindness, dedication, and hard work at the heart of Cactus Ranch Elementary and is truly deserving of the Paraprofessional of the Year recognition.” – Vicki Crain, Cactus Ranch Elementary Principal

Marcus Charles, FLC Educational Assistant

“As a paraprofessional, Marcus consistently demonstrates an extraordinary ability to connect with students, ensuring they feel valued, supported, and encouraged to reach their full potential. His commitment extends beyond the FLC unit or any of the Functional Classrooms—he is always willing to assist anyone, anywhere, whenever needed. His positive attitude and proactive approach have made a significant and lasting impact on our school community. One outstanding example of Marcus’s contributions is his leadership in setting up, maintaining, and running the LID Unit’s business, “What’s Brewing.” This initiative showcases his exceptional organizational skills, creativity, and dedication to student success, serving as a shining example of his ability to inspire and empower those around him. Marcus is an exceptional paraprofessional who also takes the job of educating and caring for students very seriously. Not only does Marcus have a strong rapport with students, he is also helpful with implementing the lesson plans and collaborating with developing them as well. Marcus is an asset not only to the FLC classroom, but to the Caldwell Heights campus.” – Michelle Montalvo, Caldwell Heights Elementary Principal

Jessica Duncan, Resource Educational Assistant

“Ms. Duncan is a well-loved educational assistant at Callison! Below is a snippet of all of the wonderful things that Callison staff had to say about Ms. Duncan! A total sweetheart! She’s always smiling and willing to help my kids and me! Duncan is Callison’s biggest cheerleader! She is always talking highly of Callison. She is very proud of Callison and the teachers. She is knows the children well and is willing to help each and everyone of them. She always has a smile and her happiness is contagious! Mrs.Duncan has a huge heart and uses it in her job each and every day. She cares so deeply about her students and always pushes them to do their best. She is amazing!!! Ms. Duncan is awesome with the kids and they do so well with her. She is a team player and willing to work with all of our students no matter the challenges that may come with it. Ms. Duncan is a kind individual that supports the students and myself during Mathematics. She always has a positive attitude and never leaves my classroom without making sure that the student’s she is assisting understand the assignment. ” – Amanda Arguijo, Callison Elementary Associate Principal

Pam Kuss, Front Office Assistant

“Mrs. Kuss embodies the qualities of kindness, helpfulness, and flexibility in her role. She consistently goes above and beyond to support both our students and staff members. Her willingness to lend a hand and her compassionate approach make her a beloved figure among students and colleagues alike. In addition to her dedication, Pam possesses a remarkable ability to adapt to various situations and needs within the school environment. Whether it’s assisting in classrooms, organizing events, or providing emotional support to students, Pam handles each task with professionalism and care. Her positive attitude and commitment to our school’s mission make her a true asset. We Love working with Pam!” – April Crawford, Canyon Creek Elementary Principal

Wei Wei Castel, Special Education Educational Assistant

“Mrs. Castel is an integral part of our Special Education team. She ensures that the students needing her assistance receive it and when they do, they are given her support, encouragement, and attention. Mrs. Castel immediately jumps into action any time she enters a classroom. Mrs. Castel demonstrates a positive, calming, and wonderful energy that furthers her ability to build relationships and engage our students.” – Jessica Rinehart, Caraway Elementary Principal

Amanda Stone, Special Education Paraprofessional

“Mrs. Stone is so attentive to the needs of not only the students she works with, but all the students in the school. She is positive and thoughtful in her interactions. She is a great asset to the school. She is very flexible and makes every effort to connect with her kids. She learns new strategies to help her kids and informs others (teachers/ed assist) so we are also better equipped to help her kids. Amanda is dedicated to understanding her students’ needs and ensures that the necessary teachers are informed. She is knowledgeable, caring, and observant, always speaking to students with kindness. When I think of a passionate paraprofessional it is Mrs. Stone! She goes above and beyond for the students she serves. She learns what strengths and challenges each child has and she does whatever necessary to support them. She will even research on her own time to provide for our cheetahs what is best for their learning styles. She is always available to lend a helping hand and shows so much care for our students. I appreciate her dedication and connection with the students!” – Vanessa Randels, Chandler Oaks Elementary Assistant Principal

Robin Fink, Administrative Associate

“We honor someone whose impact is felt in every corner of our school—someone who works tirelessly behind the scenes yet is impossible to miss. Robin Fink is the heart of Deep Wood Elementary, showing love, kindness, and unwavering support to students and staff. She wins our kids’ hearts daily, not through grand gestures but through quiet, meaningful moments. Whether comforting a child in tears, listening with an open heart, or reassuring them they are safe, she is always there. Her care extends beyond students—she is a pillar of support for our staff, offering a smile, a listening ear, and words of encouragement. Her kindness brings comfort to so many. Beyond her compassion, Robin’s professionalism and deep knowledge keep our school running smoothly, especially during special events. From crossing guard and cafeteria monitor to substitute teacher, office specialist, and registrar—she does it all. And when the New York side needs to come out to get things done, you know she’s got it covered! We celebrate not just her dedication but the warmth and love she brings to our school family. Please join me in honoring our Paraprofessional of the Year, Robin Fink!” – Reba Mussey, Deep Wood Elementary Principal

Katelin Taylor, Special Education Educational Assistant

“Katelin fosters a good relationship with every student that she works with. She is flexible, positive, and dependable to all staff and students.” – Double File Trail Elementary colleague

Renata Penha Martins, FCC Educational Assistant

“Renata is an invaluable member of our school community, whose kindness, dedication, and passion for inclusion ensure that every student feels seen, heard, and supported. Always smiling and calm, even in the toughest situations, she puts kids first, making her a joy to work with and a truly deserving Paraprofessional of the Year.” – Krystall Williams, England Elementary Principal

Katerina Morrow, Administrative Associate

“Kat is amazing! She is a first year Administrative Associate and is doing a fantastic job thus far! She is very responsive to campus needs and takes care of keeping students, staff and the building in order. She is also very organized and attentive to the campus financial needs. We are so very thankful for having her in this position and look forward to all of the wonderful things she will do for Fern Bluff!” – Deidra Floyd, Fern Bluff Elementary Principal

Carmen Vegas, Special Education Educational Assistant

“Carmen Vegas is truly deserving of Paraprofessional of the Year. She supports students with care, strengthens their work habits, and collaborates seamlessly with teachers and the SpEd team. Always going the extra mile, she fosters both academic and emotional growth. Her positivity is contagious, uplifting both students and colleagues. We are lucky to have her as part of our SpEd team and, most importantly, our Coyote Family!” – Briana Flores, Forest Creek Elementary Principal

Alondra Torres-Crocker, Registrar

“Forest North staff proudly recognize Mrs. Alondra Torres-Crocker as the FNE Paraprofessional of the Year! As our campus Registrar and Attendance Specialist, Mrs. Torres-Crocker is one of the first friendly faces our families and community members encounter at Forest North. She is the first connection new families have to our school as she gathers paperwork and helps them through the registration process with patience and ease. She helps families feel connected and cared for, from the very beginning and is a big part of the reason our front office environment is so warm, calm and welcoming. Mrs. Torres-Crocker also handles attendance and school records with staff and is always friendly, kind and helpful when doing so. She truly goes above and beyond to serve our community and we are so grateful she is part of our school family!” – Amy Jacobs, Forest North Elementary Principal

Elaine McGuckin, Resource/Inclusion Educational Assistant

“Elaine McGuckin is the heart of our campus, a dedicated paraprofessional who makes a lasting impact on students and staff alike. Her unwavering support, calm demeanor, and positive energy create a welcoming and structured environment where students feel safe, valued, and encouraged to grow. Ms. McGuckin builds strong relationships with students, providing both academic and emotional support with patience and kindness. She has an incredible ability to connect with students in a meaningful way, ensuring they feel seen and heard. Teachers and staff rely on her for her efficiency, organization, and willingness to step in wherever she is needed. No matter the challenge, she approaches every situation with grace, professionalism, and a smile. Ms. McGuckin’s presence in the classroom, hallways, and throughout the school brings joy and reassurance to everyone around her. Whether helping manage behaviors, guiding students through lessons, or simply offering a supportive word, she goes above and beyond every day. Ms. McGuckin is an invaluable member of the Gattis family and her dedication makes her more than deserving of the Campus Paraprofessional of the Year award. She is truly one of a kind and we are lucky to have her!” – Faezana Ali, Gattis Elementary Principal

Jill Tyler, Early Childhood Special Education

“Ms. Tyler is such a thoughtful and empathetic provider for our youngest students. She makes learning fun for all of her students with her kind spirit and positive attitude. She puts her heart into everything she does for her kids. She is so nice and always has a smile on her face. The kids all love her!” – Heath Frazer, Great Oaks Elementary Principal

Sheana Anderle, Special Education Educational Assistant

“Mrs. Anderle is a hardworking and compassionate educator who consistently goes above and beyond for her students and colleagues. She creates a supportive and safe environment for students, where they feel valued and encouraged. Her genuine care for each student is evident, and they truly enjoy their relationship with her. Mrs. Anderle treats everyone with respect, kindness, and fairness, and her ability to connect with both students and staff makes her a vital part of the team. Known for her energy and dedication, Mrs. Anderle approaches each day with enthusiasm and a strong commitment to her work. She is always ready to jump in and assist wherever needed, whether it’s helping students, supporting teachers, or ensuring the classroom runs smoothly. Her efficiency and foresight make her an invaluable asset, and her willingness to offer help with an eager heart reflects her positive impact on the school community. Mrs. Anderle’s work ethic, kindness, and ability to foster meaningful connections with both students and colleagues truly make her a standout member of the team at Herrington.” – Julie Carrera, Herrington Elementary Principal

Kurt Su, Educational Assistant

“I would like to take a moment to recognize Mr. Su for his unwavering dedication, flexibility, and team spirit at JLJ. He consistently steps in to cover classes across all grade levels, often on short notice, and does so with grace, professionalism, and a positive attitude. As an Educational Assistant, Mr. Su goes above and beyond each day, taking on responsibilities beyond his role with commitment and reliability. His willingness to support teachers, assist wherever needed, and maintain a calm and helpful presence makes him an invaluable asset to our school. Since the start of the school year, Mr. Su has played a critical role in ensuring instructional continuity. His hard work and dedication do not go unnoticed, and he deserves recognition for his tireless efforts in supporting both students and staff.” – Joe Lee Johnson Elementary STEAM Academy staff

Lavanya Rajendran, Pre-K Educational Assistant

“Lavanya has only been at Jollyville for a short while, but has made a significant difference on campus. She is an Educational Assistant in our Pre-Kindergarten class, and blesses our youngest Jaguars with a smile and a hug every day. She has a calm demeanor, and caring smile. This year, the teacher that Lavanya supports had to be out of the classroom for an extended period of time. For over 70 days, Lavanya remained a stable figure in the class. She ensured that learning continued. Lavanya would also stay after school when possible to get ready for the next day’s learning. She did an excellent job taking the lead role since there wasn’t a consistent guest educator in the classroom. The parents love her, and Lavanya’s colleagues treasure her at Jollyville.” – Scott Morgan, Jollyville Elementary Principal

Fiona Gonsalves, Pre-K Educational Assistant

“Fiona is consistent, thoughtful, warm and compassionate. She has a gift for supporting all the learners in her classroom while engaging them in language building and supporting them in centers. She forms incredible relationships with both students and staff in the building and is always ready and willing to jump in and help where needed.” – Doriane Marvel, Laurel Mountain Elementary Principal

Jacqueline Cruz, Educational Assistant

“Jacqueline is willing to help out in any capacity. She is phenomenal with students, both behaviorally and instructionally. She tests newcomers, runs intervention groups, builds positive relationships with students, serves as positive behavior support, does crosswalk duty, helps in the cafeteria, interprets for parents, and more. She excels in all areas and is a pleasure to work with. Staff and students adore her!” – Brian Braudrick, Live Oak Elementary Principal

Daniela Torres, Pre-K Dual Language Educational Assistant

“Daniela Torres serves the Old Town Community in several different capacities. She is a Pre-K Dual Language Educational Assistant that supports Mrs. George’s classroom. She serves our students with love and care. She also supports the Old Town Community by providing translation services to connect families with our school. She is amazing!” – Amber Velasquez, Old Town Elementary Principal

Arundhati Jagtap, General Education Paraprofessional

“She is ALWAYS smiling and will drop everything to help a student in need- even if it means giving up her lunch. I have never seen her when she isn’t smiling, despite the situation she has been asked to help de-escalate. She is always trying to help students see the bright side, she never has a negative attitude despite the situation she has been asked to come help with, even when the students are not “happy to see her “I am always in AWE of her calm, cool demeanor she has. I hope to have her “coolness” someday. Ms. AJ has consistently been the person that continually gets us out of jams. She is dedicated and postive and will jump into any situation whether its, subbing, helping with behavior, supporting small groups in any grade level. She operates with grace and is just always willing to help in any way she can. She is the glue of Pond Springs! Ms. AJ works hard, gives good feedback and wants the best for all around her. ” – Sjoukje Brown, Pond Springs Elementary Principal

Kennadee Howard, Educational Assistant

“Kennadee is our everything. She is our imbedded staff coverage and is always available to jump in to any classroom at any given time. Her flexibility is unwavering. She kind, hardworking and a genuinely good human.” – Sara Nelson, Purple Sage Elementary Principal

Carlos Lovelady, PE Educational Assistant

“Coach Carlos has been a wonderful addition to our school and specials team. He has built great relationships with our students and is always patient, kind, and caring. Carlos does everything with a smile! He has taken the effort to get to know you on a personal level, and he loves the work that he does with all the kids. Coach Carlos brings so much joy into the building. His love for the students and staff at Redbud shows daily in his interactions. He jumped right in to supporting not only PE, but also KRBE News and Troop Time.” – Kimberly Connelly, Redbud Elementary Principal

Nancy Ortega, Special Education Inclusion

“She wants the best for the students. She is always looking how to help the students and teachers. She has good ideas to share with teachers.” – Loretta Finder, Robertson Elementary Principal

Susan Carr, Special Education – Student Support

“Ms. Carr works with a variety of students and staff in multiple settings throughout the day. One of her greatest strengths is her ability to support student needs while helping them to be as independent as possible. Ms. Carr spends a majority of her day with one student whom she has worked with since kindergarten. This year she made it her mission to help him become more independent by designing and adapting a handmade Makey-Makey board. Her innovative skills this year have allowed him to participate in parts of school that he has not been able to fully access in the past. This board allows him to participate more fully in music and innovation station. She is also teaching him how to (independently) ‘drive’ his new power chair. When she sees a problem, she finds a solution! While Ms. Carr spends much of her day with one student, she builds rapport with ALL students in the classrooms she serves. She gets to know them on a personal level allowing trust to be built, resulting in the students working extremely hard to show success. In order for students to be successful, she successfully collaborates with a variety of staff.” – Brooke Elarms, Sommer Elementary Principal

Yely Belman-Sanchez, Special Education – Lead Custodian

“This year I chose to change the title of this award to Support Person of the Year for our campus. I did this because every year our Lead Custodian Ms. Yely receives many nominations from the staff. Spicewood Elementary is proud to honor Ms. Yely as our Support Person of the Year! As our dedicated lead custodian, Yely is the heart of our school, ensuring that every student, teacher, and administrator has what they need to thrive. More than keeping our campus running smoothly, Yely builds meaningful connections with our students, knowing each by name and making them feel seen and valued. Her kindness, responsiveness, and unwavering dedication create a welcoming environment where everyone can succeed.” – Melanie Solis, Spicewood Elementary Principal

Heidi Yingling, Administrative Associate

“Heidi is the glue of the campus. She is always jumping in to help any where she is needed and solves problems with grace. She is kind to everyone and has such a heart for the entire school community.” – Michael Wakefield, Teravista Elementary Principal

Edna Cazarez, ESL Paraprofessional

“Mrs. Cazarez stepped into the teacher role at the beginning of the year, and did not look back. She has been supporting fourth grade with Mr. Garcia, and is doing an amazing job. Early in the morning, and at the end of the school day, Mrs. Cazarez helps our students take pride in being color guards by showing them the importance of handling the American and Texas flags each day. She has helped so much and she is a part of our team!” – Rosena Malone, Union Hill Elementary Interim Principal

Stacy Perry, General Education Paraprofessional

“Stacy is an amazing paraprofessional. She is a team player and always willing to help out where and when she is needed. She always has a smile and works very well with our staff and students. Often times she covers for a classroom teacher and follows all plans given to her. Voigt is super lucky to have her.” – Cheryl Hester, Voigt Elementary Arts Integration Academy Principal

Amanda Colon, Special Education Resource/Inclusion

“Ms. Colon services all of our K-5 grade special education students through inclusion and resource. She is a very supportive and loving person, but also has high expectations of our students. Students love working with her. She is very open to supporting the campus as needed and has a growth mindset in her role here at WBE. She goes above and beyond and is always willing to help no matter the task. There have been some challenging students that she has had to support and she continues to go at it with a smile and supportive words to the students, families and staff.” – Angelica Negrete, Wells Branch Elementary Arts Integration Academy Principal