Vernon Middle School

Harlingen CISD is excited to announce that four amazing first-year teachers have been awarded the Texas Retired Teachers Foundation (TRTF) 2025-2026 First-Year Teacher Scholarship. This state-wide competition recognizes new teachers who are making a difference in their classrooms. The scholarship provides funds to help them purchase essential materials that enhance student learning.

These four teachers have already shown their dedication to their students and their passion for teaching. They are working hard to create fun and engaging classrooms where students can thrive. Each recipient will use the scholarship funds to bring innovative and enriching resources to their students.

The 2025-2026 First-Year Teacher Scholarship Recipients:

• Kimberly Kelso, Resource Teacher – Treasure Hills Elementary

Mrs. Kelso will use the scholarship to purchase math manipulatives and games aligned with TEKS standards for K-5^th. She will also get storytelling kits and emotional regulation tools.

• Ashley Mendiondo, Science Teacher – Vernon Middle School World Languages Academy

Ms. Mendiondo will use the scholarship to purchase interactive STEM resources, including hands-on kits, Merge Cubes for 3D modeling, and virtual lab subscriptions. Additionally, she will get interactive whiteboards, science journals, and classroom visuals.

• Miriam Romero, Spanish Teacher – Dr. Abraham P. Cano Freshman Academy (Spanish)

Ms. Romero will use the scholarship to purchase a diverse collection of authentic learning materials such as, children's book in Spanish, Spanish language games and puzzles, and traditional Spanish music instruments.

• Andres Gonzales, AP/Pre-AP Chemistry Teacher – Harlingen School of Health Professions

Mr. Gonzales will use the scholarship to purchase AI-powered “classroom assistants” embedded in stuffed animals to provide real-time, voicebased support for students’ learning. He will also purchase advanced lab materials that will allow students to conduct hands-on experiments connecting chemistry concepts to real-world health applications.

Ana Rodriguez, Instructional Coach who leads the new teacher program, expressed her admiration for their hard work and passion for teaching:

“These four teachers have shown an incredible level of dedication, creativity, and perseverance in their first year of teaching. Their passion for learning and growth is evident in everything they do. This scholarship is a well-deserved recognition of their efforts, and I am excited to see the impact they will continue to make in their classrooms.”

Harlingen CISD is proud of these remarkable educators and is excited to see how their dedication and passion will continue to positively impact their students' success. Congratulations to our 2025-2026 TRTF First-Year Teacher Scholarship winners!