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2023 Educator of the Year
This Westie goes to a Westlake area teacher or administrator in recognition of his or her outstanding contributions to the educational community and to the enrichment in the lives of children through academic achievement. He or she inspires students of all backgrounds and abilities to learn, has the respect and admiration of students, parents, and colleagues, and plays an active and useful role in the community as well as in the school.
(see below for past winners)
Finalist: Jocelyn Bixler, Westlake High School
In her 39th year of teaching, Jocelyn Bixler, now in her 26th year at Westlake, serves as the Math Department Chair, providing her with the unique opportunity to mentor promising young teachers at WHS. Passionate about motivating students to excel in higher levels of math, Jocelyn has taught every math level to students from diverse backgrounds, finding immense reward when they grasp challenging concepts. Taking over the AP Calculus program at Westlake, her goal was to encourage every student willing to try. Under her guidance, the AP Calculus BC program has flourished, growing from less than 50 to over 200 students, and that is not including the remarkable AP Calculus AB students. Reflecting on her time, Jocelyn expresses gratitude for the colleagues and Westlake students she has worked with, emphasizing her pride as a Chap when arriving at school before dawn and witnessing the lights of Austin behind WHS. She is continually thankful for every year spent at Westlake.
Finalist: Dianne Parks, West Ridge Middle School
With 24 years of experience as an educator in the Austin area, Dianne Parks has made a significant impact on the educational landscape. Serving as an Assistant Principal at Westlake High School from 2008 to 2014, she later returned to Austin ISD before assuming the role of Principal at West Ridge Middle School in 2018. Dianne's profound care for every individual she encounters is evident as she actively builds and models relationships that inspire personal growth. Described by a West Ridge Middle School teacher as "honest, 'real,' and open with her emotions," Dianne's authenticity shone through during a challenging back-to-school Zoom meeting during the Covid pandemic in Fall 2020. Despite the prevailing fear, she fearlessly demonstrated her concern for teachers' morale. Parents express gratitude for her unwavering belief in their children and for fostering a positive educational experience. Dianne invests time in getting to know students personally, encouraging them to embrace their authentic selves.
Finalist: Pegi Pickett, Eanes ISD Adult Transition Services
Pegi Pickett, teaching since 1999 and in Eanes ISD since 2001, was a member of the planning committee to develop the Eanes ISD Adult Transition Services (ATS) program (formerly known as 19+) which provides special education services for adult students 18 - 21 years old after graduation from Westlake High School. As a Special Education Teacher and Department Chair, Pegi focuses on instilling independent living, vocational, recreational, and continuing education skills at ATS. Additionally, Pegi aids students in college program applications, and has many former students who are still competitively employed. Since 2003, she has been actively involved in Eanes Special Olympics, initially as the Head of Delegation and later sharing responsibilities. The program has grown tremendously over the past few years to include 4 sports. Beyond her teaching role, Pegi founded Pickadventures, offering adventurous vacations nationwide for adults with disabilities. Recognized with the Eanespiration award in 2011 and 2023, she also received the Teacher of the Month award from the Rotary Club of Austin Westlake in November 2023.
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Educator of the Year
This Westie goes to a Westlake area teacher or administrator in recognition of his or her outstanding contributions to the educational community and to the enrichment in the lives of children through academic achievement. He or she inspires students of all backgrounds and abilities to learn, has the respect and admiration of students, parents, and colleagues, and plays an active and useful role in the community as well as in the school.
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2023 Winner: Erin Hannigan, Kindergarten Teacher at Eanes Elementary
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2022 Winner: Jamie Berrios, 5th Grade Teacher at Forest Trail Elementary
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2021 Winner: Steven Ramsey, Principal of Westlake High School
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2020 Winner: Cody Spraberry, Forest Trail Elementary Principal
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2019 Winner: Ed Snouffer, Westlake High School Choir Director
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2018 Winner: Melinda Darrow, Westlake High School Art History Teacher
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