2024 Distinguished Educators of the Year

2024 Honorees

Amanda Chacon

Amanda Chacon has dedicated her career to creating inclusive and welcoming environments for the students she serves. Chacon earned her Master’s degree in Library Science (2011) from Sam Houston State University. Chacon currently serves as an elementary school librarian at H.M. Carroll Elementary in Sheldon ISD. 

Over her 14 years of dedicated librarianship, Chacon has secured several grants, facilitated the establishment of clubs, integrated technology, and implemented multiple community outreach programs within her school. 

Chacon has received many accolades throughout her career. Of particular note is her selection as one of 50 educators countrywide for the inaugural cohort of the Amazon Future Engineer Teacher Ambassador program. This prestigious initiative aims to advance computer science and STEM education in a manner that is equitable and inclusive. Her impressive list of accomplishments includes NISE STEM Teacher Certification, LEGO Teacher Ambassador, Wakelet Community Leader, Ozobot Certified Educator, Sphero Hero, Google Certified, Epic Teacher Ambassador, ISTE Community Leader, and Future Ready Library certification. 

Chacon’s driving passion and steadfast commitment to cultivating inclusive, engaging, and innovative library spaces underscores the vital role that libraries play in the lives of students, parents, and the broader community. 

dr. deirdre holloway

Dr. Deirdre Holloway is a true believer in the Sam Houston State University’s motto, “The measure of a Life is its Service”. Holloway earned her Bachelor’s degree in Academic Studies (1994) and her Doctorate in School Leadership (2022) from Sam Houston State University. 

Holloway dedicated 29 years of service to PK-12 public education as a teacher, assistant principal, principal, Director of Student Affairs, and as Director of State and Federal Programs before retiring from Fort Bend ISD in 2022. 

During her career Holloway received many awards, including Region 4 Principal of the Year and Outstanding Educator presented by Iota Phi Lambda Business and Professional Women’s Sorority. Holloway was honored in 2013 when Houston Mayor Annise Parker declared August 23rd as Deirdre Holloway Day. In 2018 Holloway received the Dedre P. Jefferson Humanitarian Award from Sam Houston State University for her outstanding career in education. 

Holloway currently dedicates her time to serving her community and her alma mater through a variety of organizations and benevolent projects. 

Sheree johnson

Sheree Johnson leads her campus with her heart and has a passion for children, their culture, and the community. Johnson earned her Bachelor’s degree in Interdisciplinary Studies (2008) from Sam Houston State University. 

As the Principal of Griggs EC/PK/K Primary School in Aldine ISD, Johnson works earnestly to create a safe haven that allows students the freedom to be inquisitive, explore, and develop the foundational skills for future success. Her unwavering commitment to the education of young children and supporting teachers in the classroom earned her recognition as Aldine ISD’s Rookie Principal of the Year in 2023. 

Johnson actively advocates for the needs of young children and strives to continuously introduce innovative programs that cater to the various diverse learner needs in the student population she has the privilege to serve. Johnson has a unique ability to inspire and motivate others, resulting in a cohesive school community dedicated to the success of all students. 

Dr. randal o'brien

As Superintendent of Goose Creek CISD, Dr. Randal O’Brien is in the business of growing Giants. O’Brien earned his Master’s degree in Educational Management (1997) from Sam Houston State University. During his more than 30-year career, O’Brien has served as a coach, teacher, assistant principal, principal, district administrator, and superintendent of schools. 

During his tenure at Goose Creek CISD, O’Brien has established a supportive community that is unified around the goal of building Giants. His tenure has created opportunities for students to reach new heights and change the trajectory of their lives. His visionary leadership has led to innovative improvements across the district and enhanced the academic performance and overall well-being of his students. O’Brien continues to inspire educational leaders across the region. 

O’Brien’s commitment to making a difference extends beyond the classroom and into the community. He is deeply involved in philanthropic and community service initiatives. He actively supports a range of charitable causes and advocates for community involvement. 

August wunderlich

August Wunderlich began his career in education as a part time custodian at Klein High School in Klein ISD at the age of 16. After high school graduation he continued working for Klein ISD while commuting to Sam Houston State University to earn a Bachelor’s degree in Agriculture – Agriculture Education (1986). Wunderlich then earned his Master’s in Education (1993) from Sam Houston State University. 

Wunderlich taught agriculture in Navasota ISD, Klein ISD, Conroe ISD and led his students to sweeping success in Houston Livestock Show and FFA competitions. In 1998, while teaching in Klein ISD, Wunderlich was promoted to a maintenance supervisor, followed by a series of promotions, eventually becoming the Executive Director of Facility and School Services in 2017. 

Just when he thought he had seen everything, (e.g., hurricanes, fires, and floods), COVID presented a new set of challenges and Wunderlich rallied his team to serve the students and their families. 

From humble beginnings as a custodian in the district, he now serves as Chief of Operations of Klein ISD. Wunderlich oversees the implementation of multimillion dollar bond projects and takes pride in the work he does to ensure students in his district have a great educational experience.