Celebrating Excellence in Dallas ISD Classrooms
As part of Teacher Appreciation Week, Whataburger teamed up with the Dallas Education Foundation and Dallas ISD’s Human Capital Management team to shine a spotlight on outstanding educators who go above and beyond for their students. Together, we surprised four remarkable teachers with the “Whatateacher of the Year” award, a $1,000 grant to bring fresh ideas and resources directly into their classrooms.
Recognizing Dallas ISD’s 2025 Whatateachers of the Year
Juan Moreno, Prestonwood Montessori at E.D. Walker
Juan Carlos Moreno Marbán is a bilingual educator dedicated to fostering independence, curiosity, and growth in his students through a Montessori learning environment. With a focus on personalized learning, he helps students achieve their fullest potential in a supportive bilingual setting. In 2023, Moreno received a Heart of Teaching Innovation Grant Award from the Dallas Education Foundation, which allowed him to bring cutting-edge tools such as 3D printers and laser cutters into the classroom, enriching his students’ learning experiences.
Keely Jackson, William B. Travis Vanguard
Keely Jackson is a native of Texarkana, Texas, and she has lived in the Dallas area for 18 years. Jackson has been teaching in the district since 2007, where she taught English I at David W. Carter High School for four years. She currently teaches 8th English, Creative Writing, and Literary Genres at William B. Travis TAG, and serves as the 8th grade Team Lead, New Teacher Mentor, CILT Team member, Student Council Sponsor, Sponsor of the DMA Junior Docent program, and an EF Group Leader.
Jose Avina, Sunset High School
José Aviña is an AP Spanish Literature instructor, published author, and advocate for bilingual education with over 17 years of experience teaching grades 9-12. As World Languages Department Chair at Sunset High School, he has grown the AP Spanish Literature program to the highest enrollment among Dallas ISD comprehensive high schools.
Ronda Young, Martin Weiss Elementary
Ronda Young proudly teaches Pre-Kindergarten 4 at Martin Weiss School of Leadership. In her classroom, she is passionate about fostering a love of learning and helping her students discover their potential. With nearly two decades of experience, she has dedicated her career to shaping young minds and contributing to her school community in meaningful ways. For Young, teaching is much more than a profession, it is her life’s work.
Partnering for Impact
“We are honored to have Whataburger as a continued partner in supporting our educators and giving them the resources they need to thrive,” says Emily Davis, Grants and Programs Manager for the Dallas Education Foundation.
These teaching awards are part of Whataburger’s Feeding Student Success program, which focuses on charitable giving at the intersection of food insecurity and education. By investing directly in teachers’ innovative ideas, Whataburger and the Dallas Education Foundation are ensuring that every dollar goes toward hands‑on experiences, new technologies, and materials that students need to thrive.
Join Us in Supporting Classroom Innovation
Want to help us champion our outstanding educators? Learn about additional grant opportunities and how you can contribute at dallasedfound.org. To make a tax‑deductible donation and fuel creativity in Dallas ISD classrooms, visit dallasedfound.org/donate.
Together with community partners like Whataburger, we’re empowering educators to inspire the next generation—one classroom at a time.
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