Receiving the surprise of the year in front of educators from across the District, McNeil High School English Language Learner Teacher Andrea Larson was awarded the title of the District’s 2023 Secondary Teacher of the Year (TOY). She received the good news during the District’s annual TOY Celebration on May 4, sponsored by the Round Rock ISD Partners in Education (PIE) Foundation and A+ Federal Credit Union.
Larson was selected among 20 secondary educators to represent the District at the regional competition. She has been an educator for 22 years, 20 of which have been serving the McNeil community in her current role.
“One of my core beliefs is that every story matters,” Larson said “Every person has a story to tell and when we make space for the telling of those stories and time to really listen, we become transformed. Sharing stories allows us to see the threads of experience that bind us all together, and sharing stories highlights the amazing diversity that exists even among people who might otherwise seem so like us.”
Because of this belief every lesson she teaches aims to create opportunities for students to share their stories. Her students come from many countries and experiences, which is why she has designed her course to incorporate their personal experiences in a way that helps them learn in the classroom and from others.
Larson will continue to the 2023 Region 13 Secondary Teacher of the Year competition, where she will represent Round Rock ISD in hopes of becoming the 2023 Texas Secondary Teacher of the Year.
“Andrea is pulled in so many directions, and yet she still treats everyone with kindness and respect,” said McNeil Principal Amanda Johnson. “The students in her classes count on her to help them navigate what school and life are like in the US. ELL teachers in our District regularly reach out for questions and look to her for best practices in teaching and supporting our ELLs. Though many people strive to make a difference in the world and lives of others, there are some people that you meet and know for certain will achieve it. Andrea is that person. Not only does she manage the weight of program responsibilities, but she also finds time to teach inspiring classes, write curriculum for the District, support new teachers, and tirelessly advocate for kids’ needs. Andrea has truly made Round Rock ISD a better place for ALL ELLs because of her dedication to her work. Andrea continues to be a pinnacle example of what it means to be an educator – a person with unwavering compassion for students, drive to improve instruction for all learners, and the passion for helping other teachers.”
