Meet Nadya Espinoza – YES Prep Brays Oaks
Years at YES Prep: This is Ms. Espinoza's 14th year.
Current Courses Taught: Reading Intervention
Courses Taught Previously: Reading Intervention
Additional Roles: Teacher Advisory Council, National Board Certification Group, Parent Engagement Campus Council
Designation: TIA Master + Level IV teacher
This week, we celebrate Nadya Espinoza, a dedicated and passionate educator at YES Prep Brays Oaks, who has been making an impact for 14 years. With a Level IV designation, TIA Master recognition, and a long list of achievements, Nadya continues to inspire her students and colleagues alike.
A Lifelong Dream to Teach
Nadya's teaching journey began with inspiration from her 5th-grade teacher, Ms. Brenda Rangel. Despite early fears about attending YES Prep as a student, fate brought her back to the organization in a profound way. While completing her degree at the University of Houston, Nadya reached out to Ms. Rangel, who was then a principal at YES Prep Brays Oaks. That conversation reignited her connection with YES Prep, and Nadya joined the teaching staff, where she has flourished ever since.
Reflecting on her journey, Nadya shares, “I felt like I was supposed to end up at YES Prep 14 years prior, and the rest is history.”
Building Relationships That Last
For Nadya, teaching goes beyond academics—it’s about building meaningful connections. Over her career, she has impacted more than 2,000 students, fostering trust and understanding. “When kids know you care about them and try to understand their different needs, they have more respect for you. That respect leads to better academic and behavioral outcomes,” she says.
Her most transformative relationships were with her first class of students, the Class of 2018. “They saw me at my worst and my best. I committed to staying for seven years to see them graduate, and they motivated me to continue teaching,” she recalls. Nadya’s bonds with her students have extended beyond the classroom, including supporting their businesses and celebrating life milestones like their children’s first birthdays.
Celebrating Accomplishments
Nadya’s dedication and persistence have earned her numerous accolades:
- NYC Teacher Marathon Award, 2023
- TIA Master Teacher, 2023
- Advanced Teacher, 2017
- Level IV Teacher, 2022 and ongoing
Reaching her 10-year milestone at YES Prep remains a proud accomplishment, as does the privilege of teaching multiple siblings within families. “Teaching families will always be a favorite thing of mine, especially when I meet the youngest as a baby or toddler and they become my 6th grader in no time,” she shares.
Why YES Prep?
Nadya believes in the mission that unites teachers at YES Prep. “YES Prep’s mission brings teachers together for a fulfilling purpose. I feel like I belong here every day I come to work. There has always been someone supporting me to become better, and all you need to do is ask.”
This spotlight is part of our series highlighting YES Prep teachers with TIA designations and Level IV recognition. Stay tuned for more stories of transformative educators!
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Learn More About the Teacher Incentive Allotment at YES Prep
For those interested in learning more about the TIA program and teacher development at YES Prep, additional information can be found on our website:
- Teacher Development and Evaluation at YES Prep