DISD Teacher of the Year Shocked at Award

A Dallas elementary school teacher got the surprise of a lifetime when she found out she won the district’s coveted “Teacher of the Year” award.

Silvia Alonzo has been a teacher at John H. Reagan Elementary in Oak Cliff for seven years, currently teaching third grade in a bilingual class.

Alonzo was born and raised in Oak Cliff, went to DISD schools in Oak Cliff, and said she’s living her dream by teaching the next generation of Oak Cliff students.

“I am very proud, like I said, to have been born and raised in Oak Cliff. I had bilingual education. I like giving back to my community. I want to show my kids I identify with them. I want them to see someone that looks just like them can succeed and they can accomplish their dreams,” she said.

“I’m just a young girl from Oak Cliff like my kids. A product of DISD. This is such an honor to me. I think everyone should gave back to their community,” Alonzo added.

The school principal and other teachers surprised Alonzo in class this morning by giving her a giant cake, a bouquet of flowers, a plaque, and a ceremonial check. Alonzo was moved to tears.

“I’m still in shock. I told my kids today, 'I don’t believe it.' I’m pinching myself,” Alonzo said. “I’m like, ‘Is this really happening? Is this really for me?’ I don’t think I’m the best teacher. I come here and I do my job every day. Which is to teach my kids, not just academically, but socially and emotionally. I want them to learn all the positive that I have to offer.”

Central Market presented Alonzo with a $5,000 check for winning the annual award.

Contact Us