May the 4th be with you! Chris Ortiz has won Teacher of the Year and Humanitarian of the Year at Knox Junior High School in Texas. He is currently an 8th grade U.S. History in a traditional classroom. Prior to becoming a History teacher, Chris spent the early part of his career working in Special Education, and in the classroom with kids who have behavioral and emotional challenges. He also impacts kids on the court. The Knox Junior High School Girls’ Basketball team has created an identity around grit and hard work. You can chalk up their success to the culture that Chris has been able to build. He impacts kids everywhere he goes. In addition to being an educator and a coach, he has started to write children’s books. Be on the look out for “Dear Mama”, which will be available at Barnes & Noble soon!

I don’t know about you, but outside of my parents, my teachers and coaches were the most influential people in my life. I am still in touch with many of my former teachers and professors. Likewise with my former coaches. Through quarantine, it has become very evident how crucial of a role teachers play in children’s lives. Thank you to all the teachers and educators who are working tirelessly every day.