Special education is a promise that every student will be seen, supported and given the opportunity to thrive. At YES Prep, Che’Ron Lewis is helping fulfill that promise every day. Her journey into special education was shaped by her passion for helping others, her family’s influence, and her firsthand experience seeing the power of education. Now, as a YSTEP (YES Student Transition and Enrichment Program) teacher at YES Prep Northline Secondary, Lewis shares her story in her own words.
Finding My Purpose in Education
I am Che’Ron Lewis, an Oklahoma native from the small town of Cushing. Growing up, my parents made sure that education was a requirement, not a suggestion. My parents raised me and my sisters to aim high and work hard. That foundation shaped everything I’ve done since.
At Langston University, the only HBCU (Historically Black College/University) in Oklahoma, I played basketball, led on campus and discovered the power of representation. Seeing Black educators succeed made a lasting impression. After graduating in 2017, I worked in a group home for adults with disabilities. That experience opened my eyes and heart to a career focused on helping others.
In 2018, I took a leap of faith and moved to Houston, encouraged by my sister’s stories of opportunity and growth. I started my education journey at YES Prep Northside Secondary as a special education assistant and then later becoming an inclusion special education teacher supporting high school English and social studies.
A Calling That Found Me
In 2020, I transitioned to YSTEP at YES Prep Fifth Ward Secondary, where I built strong relationships with students and colleagues. At the end of the 2023 school year, I learned YSTEP would move to Northline Secondary. I was hurt, I loved what I’d built at Fifth Ward and wanted to keep growing there. I had to choose to either transfer with YSTEP or find a new role. Though moving was difficult, I chose to stay with my students, ensuring continuity and support as they adjusted to a new campus.
One of my most memorable moments was watching one of my students, Jorge, grow from a shy sixth grader into a confident high school graduate. When I first met him, he barely spoke in class, but with encouragement, he started sharing his thoughts and excelling in math. Over the years, I watched him navigate multiple school transitions, make new friends and ultimately walk across the graduation stage. Watching him adapt, build relationships and grow more confident every year reminded me that if my students can do hard things, so can I.
By promoting acceptance, I strive to create an environment where my students feel confident and empowered to be themselves. I work closely with families to set achievable goals and ensure our students are prepared for life beyond high school.
Committed to Growth and Community
For the past seven years, YES Prep has challenged me to grow both personally and professionally. I’ve had the chance to mentor new teachers, help shape curriculum and contribute to state-level testing reviews through the Texas Education Agency. I’ve worked with leaders who pushed me to do better and colleagues who believe deeply in our students.
In 2023, I moved to YES Prep Northline Secondary to stay with my students as they transitioned to a new campus. It wasn’t easy, but they needed someone they trusted, and I knew I could be that person.
Recognized for Impact: TIA at YES Prep
In 2024, I received the Kinder Excellence in Teaching Award and was named a master teacher through the Teacher Incentive Allotment (TIA) program. The recognition was meaningful, but the support behind it has made an even bigger difference.
Being recognized as a Master teacher through TIA has been an incredible honor. It has opened doors for me to share my experiences and connect with a broader audience. The financial stability it provides has also been a blessing for my growing family—we are expecting a new addition in July 2025!
I’m grateful that at YES Prep, support isn’t limited by your title—whether you’re a teacher, teaching assistant or administrator, the system is built to help you grow. All around, if you work for YES, I feel you can grow personally and in your career.
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