On the Crippen Elementary campus, Catalina Diaz is known for her ability to foster connections with her students. She is described as a hardworking and caring educator because of both her high expectations and unwavering support she provides as students strive to meet those expectations.
Elementary Teacher of the Year, Catalina Diaz
This year marks Ms. Diaz’s third year in New Caney ISD and at Crippen Elementary, where she serves as a third grade science and social studies teacher, as well as the Gifted and Talented (GT) campus lead teacher and Spanish liaison for the district. As the GT lead, Ms. Diaz assists teachers in maintaining their GT compliance and works with the GT students on enrichment projects. As the Spanish liaison, she assists the advanced academics department with translating meetings and parent resources.
Originally from Colombia, Ms. Diaz completed her bachelor’s degree in communications and journalism before moving to the United States and completing her master’s degree in human resource management. After a career in human resources, Ms. Diaz began teaching seven years ago in Houston ISD. During her time in education, she has worked for Houston ISD, Humble ISD, and now New Caney ISD. She is currently working on a doctorate in education with a concentration in organizational leadership at Nova Southeastern University, with hopes to work more with dual language by providing resources and support to bridge the gap between dual language and general education.
“Spanish is my mother tongue, so I would love for everyone to learn the language,” Diaz said. “But, I like to focus more on equitable education. I think that being able to speak different languages and being that bridge helps you build connections.”
Teachers of the Year, Camila Maia and Catalina Diaz, Honored at the WFHS Football Game
Connecting with her students is vital to Ms. Diaz, and she is able to relate to students by exposing them to her own interests. By participating in fun activities such as embarking on a virtual field trip to Disney World, decorating her classroom for the holidays, and teaching them about all Hispanic cultures during Hispanic Heritage month, Ms. Diaz gives students the opportunity to learn about her and gain new perspectives.
“Giving them a little piece of me and who I am, not who they think I am, is so powerful,” Diaz said. “I think the moments of connecting are most rewarding.”
According to RCE Principal, Teresa Brent, it is through these moments of connection that students feel supported and cared for by Ms. Diaz.
“Ms. Diaz is the kind of teacher who students request as their teacher,” Brent said. “This is because they know she will support them in every way possible. Ms. Diaz is a hardworking, caring educator, who strives to be better each day.”
To Ms. Diaz, being named Elementary Teacher of the Year is a huge honor.
“I feel a huge sense of honor to be able to represent my school and all the educators that come from diverse backgrounds,” Diaz said. “I feel a sense of pride to see how my efforts have come to fruition and I have been able to make a positive impact in the lives of my students, their families, and my colleagues.”