In every classroom across YES Prep, great teaching is shaping what is possible for students.
It is seen in the way teachers push students to think deeper, the way they build trust and belonging, and the way they show up—day after day—with consistency and care. It is felt in moments of growth, in moments of challenge, and in the moments when students need support the most.
During Teacher Appreciation Week, we pause to recognize the educators who make that impact real.
When Support Matters Most
For families, the impact of great teaching becomes most visible in the moments that matter most.
At YES Prep Southside Secondary, one parent described how an entire school community came together to support a student after the unexpected loss of a parent. “The principal, Dean of Students, coaches, teachers, and parents showed up and dedicated their time to be there for the student,” shared April Chatman. It is in moments like these that teaching extends beyond instruction becoming a source of stability, care, and connection.
Even in everyday learning, families see how teachers create environments where students are challenged and supported at the same time. “My kid is being pushed, challenged, and motivated,” shared Ana Torres, YES Prep Airline Elementary.
High Expectations, Strong Classrooms
Inside the classroom, great teaching is defined by both what students learn and how they experience learning.
At YES Prep North Forest Secondary, that balance shows up in classrooms where high expectations are paired with energy and joy. “Ms. Jones holds a high bar for both student achievement and engagement, and her students can always expect her to bring the energy,” shared Principal Naketchia Alfred.
Even during STAAR testing, Ms. Jones found ways to create moments of levity, reminding students that culture and connection matter just as much as performance.
That intentionality is echoed at YES Prep North Rankin Elementary, where classroom culture begins with how teachers show up. “Ms. Becerra shows up each and every day with a genuine sense of joy… it’s authentic, consistent, and rooted in her commitment to her students,” shared Principal Stephanee Dorsey.
Instruction That Moves Students Forward
Great teaching is also evident in the ways educators design learning experiences that meet students where they are—and push them further.
At YES Prep White Oak Secondary, students engage in lessons that go beyond traditional instruction. “She uses data to provide differentiated instruction and creates engaging experiences, from board game simulations to real-life applications of texts,” shared Principal Gregory Little about Ms. Haynes.
At YES Prep Northline Secondary, consistent, high-quality instruction has led to measurable growth for students. “She has consistently improved student growth rates in 7th grade ELA,” shared Principal Zicuria Ussery about Ms. Burton.
These practices, intentional, thoughtful, and student-centered, are what drive outcomes across the system.
The Power of Great Teaching
Across YES Prep, great teaching is not defined by a single moment, it is built over time, through relationships, consistency, and a deep belief in what students can achieve.
Families feel it. Leaders see it. Students experience it every day.
This Teacher Appreciation Week, we celebrate the educators who make that impact possible and who continue to shape the futures of students across our communities.