Celebrating Excellence and Impact: April Board Meeting Recap
The April Board Meeting was filled with moments of pride and celebration, as the district honored educators and community partners whose dedication continues to create meaningful opportunities for students across Mesquite ISD.
The Board proudly recognized two outstanding educators as Apple Corps inductees, an honor made possible through the continued partnership with the Mesquite Education Foundation and Clay Cooley of Mesquite. KeAngela Police-Stephenson of Berry Middle School, a 6th-8th grade RLA MTI teacher and Vanston Middle School 6th grade RLA teacher Elena Jimenez.
Mesquite ISD also honored Blanca Obregon of Cross Elementary School as this month’s STAR Para award recipient. Sponsored by First Financial Group of America (FFGA), the award honors paraprofessionals who go above and beyond to support students and staff. Serving as a LIFE Skills paraprofessional, Obregon was recognized for the compassion, patience, and dedication she brings to her students each day, ensuring they are supported and positioned for success.
The evening also highlighted the power of community partnership. Attorneys Megan David and Antoinette Harris were recognized for their generous support of the Poteet High School Mock Trial Team. Their passion for service and ongoing investment in students have provided invaluable real-world learning experiences.
Additionally, the district celebrated several exceptional educators and one outstanding organization recognized by Region 10 ATPE (Association of Texas Professional Educators). The following honorees were commended for their unwavering commitment to public education and their positive impact on students, campuses, and the broader Mesquite ISD community:
Dr. Janine Fields: Administrator of the Year
Mesquite ISD Deputy Superintendent Dr. Janine Fields is an exceptional leader whose vision, integrity, and commitment to students and staff have made a profound impact across the district. With experience spanning from teacher to executive leadership, she brings deep expertise and a servant leadership mindset to her role. Dr. Fields oversees key district systems that support instructional excellence, educator development, and student success. She also played a pivotal role in the successful 2025 bond, securing critical resources for future growth. Known for her collaborative approach and clear communication, Dr. Fields empowers educators and leaders at every level, making her truly deserving of the 2026 Region 10 ATPE Administrator of the Year Award, bringing this award home to Mesquite ISD for the 4th year in a row!
Susana Michel: Elementary Educator of the Year
Susana Michel, a 4th-grade bilingual teacher at Motley Elementary, is an outstanding educator whose leadership, service, and dedication make a lasting impact on her students and community. Known for her instructional excellence, she has been recognized as an ETIP Scholar and an Apple Corps Award recipient and serves as a mentor to new bilingual teachers. Mrs. Michel fosters a positive and welcoming school culture while empowering students through leadership opportunities. Mrs. Michel’s passion, innovation, and heart make her a truly deserving recipient of this award.
Kristie Hernandez: Secondary Educator of the Year
Kristie Hernandez, Career & Technical Education (CTE) teacher at Agnew Middle School, exemplifies dedication, innovation, and advocacy in public education. She is a dynamic, student-centered educator who integrates technology into learning. She teaches Cybersecurity and College & Career Exploration, equipping students with real-world skills and connecting classroom learning to future career pathways.
Dr. Bruce Belanger: Campus Representative of the Year
Dr. Bruce Belanger, Campus Representative at John Horn High School, is a dedicated leader who exemplifies service, advocacy, and connection. Known for his outstanding recruitment efforts, Dr. Belanger uses creativity and visibility to grow membership. He prioritizes member retention through meaningful relationships, regular recognition, and ongoing support. Through his leadership and commitment to celebrating others, Dr. Belanger has made a lasting impact on Horn High School and the Mesquite ATPE community, making him a truly deserving recipient of the 2026 Region 10 ATPE Campus Representative of the Year, and he is a finalist for the 2026 ATPE State Campus Representative of the Year - we will find out the results in July!
Mesquite Local: Local Unit of the Year
We are proud to announce that Mesquite Local has been named the 2026 Region 10 ATPE Local Unit of the Year and a finalist for State Local Unit of the Year. Through strong leadership, innovative programming, and a commitment to serving educators, Mesquite has built a thriving, engaged membership. The local unit is known for its impactful events, consistent communication, and meaningful support of educators across the district. Mesquite ATPE works to elevate the educator voice and strengthen public education. With continued momentum and dedication, they look forward to representing Region 10 at the state level this July.
We also had two Region 10 ATPE grant award winners:
Campus Representative of the Year Dr. Bruce Belanger was also awarded a $550 grant for the Green Team & Math in the Landscape Project, a campus garden and beautification project to impact John Horn High School students, staff, and community with an inviting space.
And McDonald Middle School counselor Stephanie Cordero was awarded a $250 grant for her initiative SEL Tools and Incentives to make campus-wide SEL lessons engaging, fun, and full of tangible rewards!
Together, these recognitions reflect the heart of Mesquite ISD, a community united in purpose, driven by service, and committed to ensuring every student has the opportunity to excel.