Friendswood ISD Honors 2026 Teachers, Paraprofessionals, Coaches, and Support Staff of the Year

Friendswood ISD (FISD) is proud to announce the 2026 recipients of its annual districtwide recognition program, honoring outstanding Teachers, Paraprofessionals, Coaches, and Support Staff of the Year. These individuals have demonstrated exceptional commitment, leadership, and passion in supporting student success across all FISD campuses.

This year’s Teachers of the Year exemplify excellence in education through meaningful instruction, student connection, and dedication to their campus communities:

· Friendswood High School: Patrick Rosenberg
· Friendswood Junior High: Claire Ford
· Westwood Elementary: Elizabeth Bott
· Cline Elementary: Heather Quintero
· Bales Intermediate: Hannah Schmanske
· Windsong Intermediate: Brandy Mertz

FISD also recognizes the incredible contributions of its Paraprofessionals of the Year, who play a vital role in supporting classrooms, students, and staff across the district:

· Friendswood High School: Julie Wilson
· Friendswood Junior High: Lynn Landry
· Westwood Elementary: Karina Valentine
· Cline Elementary: Erin Campos
· Bales Intermediate: Alicia Fontenot
· Windsong Intermediate: Sara Ruiz

In addition, Jaclyn King from the Print Shop Department has been named Support Staff of the Year for their outstanding service and dedication to Friendswood ISD.

The district’s Coaches of the Year were also recognized for their leadership, mentorship, and commitment to athletic excellence:

• David Cook – 20-5A Tennis Coach of the Year
   
• Jay Godfrey – 20-5A Swim/Dive/Polo Coach of the Year
• Sarah Paulk – 20-5A Volleyball Coach of the Year
   
• Stephen Peter – 20-5A Boys Soccer Coach of the Year
   
• Laura Peter –  20-5A Girls Soccer Coach of the Year

“We are incredibly proud to recognize this year’s Teachers, Paraprofessionals, Support Staff and Coaches of the Year, an outstanding group of educators who embody excellence, passion, and unwavering dedication to their students. Their impact reaches far beyond the classroom, shaping futures, inspiring growth, and strengthening our entire school community. We are truly honored to celebrate their achievements and grateful for the difference they make every single day,” said Candace Metz, Chair of the Staff Recognition Committee for the FISD Education Foundation. 

The FISD Education Foundation is proud to support this annual recognition of excellence, continuing its mission to celebrate and uplift the individuals who make Friendswood schools a place of innovation, growth, and community.