YES Prep teachers are educators, mentors, role models, and champions of student success. As we close the celebration of Teacher Appreciation Week, we want to shine a bright spotlight on the dedicated educators who pour their passion, energy, and heart into their students every single day. From building meaningful relationships to guiding students toward academic and personal growth, nominated by their school’s leadership team, these teachers make a lasting impact that goes far beyond the classroom. 

Help us celebrate!

Amber Thompson, YES Prep Southside Elementary 

For Amber Thompson, becoming a teacher was not part of the original plan. With aspirations to become a trauma surgeon, life took her on a different path, leading her to become a math interventionist. It was here that she discovered the profound impact she could have on students’ lives. One of her most impactful moments was supporting a grieving student who had recently lost a parent. By building a trusting relationship, she became a critical source of support during a challenging time. Amber's journey as an educator has taught her the power of connection and the importance of meeting students where they are. 

 

 

Donna Washington, YES Prep East End Elementary 

Donna Washington transitioned from direct behavior support to teaching, motivated by a desire to make a broader impact on young lives. One of her most special moments came when her largely non-verbal class learned to wave—a simple yet powerful breakthrough in connection and communication. Over time, Donna has grown in confidence and adaptability, building strong relationships with her colleagues and students. She wishes more people understood the constant commitment teaching requires, and she finds deep fulfillment in the small victories that mark her students' progress. 

 

Jasmine Moore, YES Prep Southside Secondary

Jasmine Moore became a teacher because she believes in the power of education to transform lives. Inspired by the teachers who saw potential in her as a student, she strives to be that same positive influence for her own students. One of her most meaningful moments was when former students expressed their gratitude for helping them become stronger writers and critical thinkers. For Ms. Moore, teaching is about guiding students to grow academically and personally, building a foundation of confidence and resilience that lasts a lifetime. 

 

 

 

Derek Gutierrez, YES Prep North Forest Secondary 

For Derek Gutierrez, the world of theater opened a pathway to teaching. Despite struggling with imposter syndrome early in his career, a powerful moment in the classroom reminded him of his purpose. While teaching a lesson on acting techniques, his students' curiosity and enthusiasm reignited his confidence and passion for education. Derek credits the Teaching Excellence program at YES Prep for helping him grow as an educator, and he is proud to have recently applied for his standard certification. 

 

Carlos Martinez, YES Prep Hobby Secondary 

As a former YES Prep student, Carlos Martinez knows firsthand the impact of a dedicated teacher. Inspired by his own middle school mentor, he strives to create a classroom environment where students feel like family. Teaching his former 6th graders as 8th graders has been a full-circle moment, reinforcing his belief in the power of positive relationships. For Carlos, teaching is about being a mentor, guide, and advocate for his students, both inside and outside the classroom. 

 

 

Anncell Polly, YES Prep Brays Oaks Secondary 

Anncell Polly draws inspiration from her high school dance teacher and now shares that same mentorship with her students. One of her most memorable moments was watching a reluctant student blossom into a dance minor in college. Anncell believes in the power of the arts to transform lives, teaching her students not just dance, but confidence, discipline, and self-expression. She is proud to lead dance education at YES Prep and inspire the next generation of performers. 

 

 

Remy Edmonds, YES Prep East End Secondary 

Remy Edmonds is driven by a deep love for her students. She finds fulfillment in building strong relationships and guiding students through both academic and personal growth. Her students’ respect and trust are constant reminders of her impact as an educator. Remy believes that teaching goes beyond academics—it’s about shaping lives and creating lasting connections. Remy is deeply committed to supporting her students through the pivotal years of middle school, helping them build resilience and confidence as they navigate their academic and personal journeys. 

 

 

 

Zachary Brock, YES Prep West 

Zachary Brock didn’t initially plan to become a teacher, but a high school British literature class sparked his passion for education. Today, he draws on that transformative experience to connect with his students, guiding them with empathy and an understanding of their potential. He believes in the power of education to change lives, just as his teacher once changed his. Zachary strives to create a classroom environment where students feel valued, supported, and inspired to reach their full potential. 

 

 

Oluwakemi Omar, YES Prep Northwest Secondary 

For Oluwakemi Omar, the moment when a student’s understanding clicks is the best part of teaching. She values the opportunity to inspire growth and has developed her instructional skills through the support of her DOI and colleagues at YES Prep. Her journey as an educator is fueled by a commitment to helping students reach their full potential. Oluwakemi believes in the power of small victories and the lasting impact of building student confidence and self-reliance. 

 

 

Stephanie Guzman, YES Prep Airline Elementary

For Stephanie Guzman, teaching in special education is about celebrating small victories that lead to big breakthroughs. One of her most memorable moments was watching a nonverbal student read aloud for the first time, a powerful reminder of the impact of patience and belief. Stephanie finds deep meaning in helping students unlock their potential, no matter the challenges they face. 

 

 

 

Christine Cormier, YES Prep White Oak Secondary

Christine Cormier finds deep fulfillment in helping students overcome challenges. One of her most impactful moments was encouraging a struggling student to stay in school and graduate, a reminder of the life-changing power of a supportive teacher. Christine believes in the importance of perseverance and the difference a dedicated educator can make in a student's life. 

 

 

 

Ana Lopez, YES Prep Northline Secondary 

For Ana Lopez, teaching is about creating a safe space for students to grow academically and personally. One of her most memorable moments was helping a struggling student turn his life around. Today, that student is attending the University of Houston, a powerful reminder of the impact a caring teacher can have. Ana believes that every student has the potential to succeed with the right support and encouragement. 

 

 

 

Olivia Brown, YES Prep North Central Secondary 

For Olivia Brown, teaching is about helping students find their voices and believe in their potential. She finds deep meaning in guiding students through milestones like writing college essays, where they share their stories and define their paths. Olivia is passionate about empowering her students to take risks, embrace challenges, and build the confidence to pursue their dreams. 

 

 

 

Sarah Hartzell, YES Prep Northside Secondary 

Stephanie Guzman teaches with a focus on building student confidence and resilience. Her journey as an educator has been marked by powerful moments of student growth and connection, reminding her why she chose this path. She finds joy in watching her students overcome challenges and believes in the transformative power of education. 

 

 

Thank you to all our dedicated YES Prep teachers for the countless ways you inspire, support, and guide your students every day. We appreciate your commitment, passion, and unwavering belief in the potential of every student. Happy Teacher Appreciation Week!