At YES Prep Public Schools, we believe that exceptional teaching is the cornerstone of student success. Each year, we are honored to recognize the educators who go above and beyond for their students, shaping both their academic journeys and their lives.
The Kinder Foundation, known for its transformational impact on the Greater Houston Area, shares this commitment to excellence in education. Through the Kinder Excellence in Teaching Awards (KETA), the foundation has celebrated outstanding teachers across Houston since 2001, awarding more than $5.3 million in grants to over 323 educators.
This year, we proudly celebrate four YES Prep educators who exemplify what it means to lead with excellence, heart, and high expectations.
Meet YES Prep’s 2025 Kinder Excellence in Teaching Award Winners
Amber Dowson
4th Grade English Language Arts – Grade Level Chair
YES Prep North Central Elementary
Amber Dowson began her journey at YES Prep North Central Elementary in January 2021 with a deep belief in every student’s potential. Since then, she has become a standout educator whose students consistently score at the top of YES Prep in STAAR Domain I, thanks to her strong lesson planning, instructional precision, and year-round support.
Beyond academics, Ms. Dowson has created beloved campus traditions like the NCE Talent Show and her annual class tea party, fostering a joyful and connected school culture. As Grade Level Chair, Course Facilitator, and Induction Teacher Leader, she mentors colleagues across the YES Prep network, strengthening instructional practices systemwide. She also serves as Summer School Coordinator and heads the Teacher Advisory Council, where she advocates for equity and elevates staff voices.
Ms. Dowson’s leadership, passion, and unwavering belief in her students make her a driving force on campus and a model of excellence across YES Prep.
Diego Hernandez
10th–12th Grade Pre-Calculus and AP Statistics, Teach For America ’19
YES Prep Northline Secondary
Diego Hernandez began his teaching career in 2019 as a founding eighth grade social studies teacher and Teach For America corps member. Despite being new to the classroom, his relentless reflection, relationship-building, and determination quickly set him apart. Over the past six years, he has taught five different courses, teaching many of his students from 8th grade through 12th grade. His adaptability and commitment have produced remarkable academic outcomes, including leading the district in AP Statistics growth and achieving the highest AP Statistics passing rate in his first year teaching the course.
Mr. Hernandez’s influence extends far beyond academics. He founded SAT Club, led Junior and Senior Leadership Councils, and helped raise nearly $10,000 for senior events. A Level IV teacher, he also manages upper-level math placement at Northline, ensuring students are prepared for success. As an Induction Teacher Leader, he supports new teachers across YES Prep.
Known for his humor, dedication, and deep belief in student potential, Mr. Hernandez leaves a lasting legacy of transformation for both his students and colleagues.
Michelle Mata
12th Grade AP Environmental Science & Environmental Systems – Grade Level Chair
YES Prep Gulfton Secondary
Since 2013, Michelle Mata has been a pillar of YES Prep Gulfton, embodying the campus values of Family, Optimism, Rigor, Community, and Equity. Over her 12-year tenure, she has built lasting relationships with students and families, often being called a “second mother” and invited to present diplomas at graduations.
As a Level IV teacher and longtime Grade Level Chair, Ms. Mata consistently leads students to success — her AP Environmental Science scores are among the top in the district. This year, she also stepped in to teach Biology during a teacher leave, demonstrating her commitment to every Gulfton student.
Her leadership extends well beyond the classroom. Ms. Mata mentors new leaders, organizes international student trips, writes district curriculum, and champions equity through senior events and student traditions. Whether cheering at games, creating bulletin boards, or supporting colleagues, her presence and dedication are felt across campus.
Ms. Mata’s unwavering belief in her students and commitment to their growth make her a force for excellence and equity at Gulfton.
Ginny Herrera
3rd Grade Bilingual Math Teacher – YES Prep Alum
YES Prep Southeast Elementary
As both a YES Prep alum and a Level IV teacher, Ginny Herrera brings a unique perspective to her role as a third grade bilingual math teacher at Southeast Elementary. She is known for transforming complex math concepts into engaging, hands-on learning experiences, with differentiated instruction and small-group precision that drive exceptional student outcomes on state and district assessments.
Ms. Herrera creates an inclusive environment where all students, especially bilingual learners, thrive. Her leadership as Grade Level Chair and her contributions to districtwide professional development amplify her impact beyond her own classroom.
Through strong family partnerships, student-centered instruction, and a deep commitment to equity, Ms. Herrera ensures her students succeed academically and feel valued as individuals. Her work exemplifies excellence, leadership, and the powerful legacy of YES Prep alumni giving back to their communities.
Honoring Excellence, Shaping the Future
The Kinder Excellence in Teaching Awards not only honor the legacy of Edna C. Kinder but also spotlight the vital role that dedicated educators play in shaping the future of our communities.
At YES Prep, we are deeply grateful to the Kinder Foundation for its continued recognition of teacher excellence. As we celebrate this year’s KETA recipients, we are reminded of the lasting impact that transformational giving and extraordinary teaching have on the lives of our students, our schools, and the Greater Houston area.
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About Kinder Foundation
Kinder Foundation, a family foundation established in 1997 by Rich and Nancy Kinder of Houston, Texas, provides transformational grants that impact urban green space, education, and quality of life. More at www.kinderfoundation.org.