Three Lubbock Teachers Won September Awards
Local educators were recognized for their work through the Teachers On The Rise program.
Updated on Oct. 12, 2026 in Secondary Education
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United Supermarkets and Mrs Baird's Bread selected three teachers as winners for September 2026. The recipients are among the first honored during the program's 16th annual year.
Why it matters
The program celebrates the hard work of educators across the South Plains. By incentivizing nominations from students and families, it highlights the contributions of local teachers to the community.
Winning teachers receive a $100 United Supermarkets gift card, lunch for two at the Texas Tech Club, and a gift box of Mrs Baird's products. Students who nominate the winners receive a $50 American Express gift card.
The players
Maribel Ojeda
She is a teacher at Miller Elementary School and a recipient of the September award.
Kirston Deshazo
She is an educator at McCool Academy and was recognized as a September winner.
Lindsey Pierson
She is a teacher at Frenship Memorial High School who won the September honor.
The details
Maribel Ojeda of Miller Elementary School, Kirston Deshazo of McCool Academy, and Lindsey Pierson of Frenship Memorial High School were chosen as the September winners. Nominations for the awards are currently on pace to set a record for the 16th year of the initiative.
Timeline
August 2026: The 16th annual Teachers On The Rise program launched.
September 2026: Three Lubbock area teachers were named program winners.
Culture Shift
The Teachers On The Rise program marks its 16th year, reflecting a long-term regional commitment to community-based recognition of public school staff. This longevity highlights a consistent shift toward prioritizing local teacher appreciation over a sixteen-year period.
Families and students in the South Plains can continue to influence local recognition by submitting nominations for teachers through the program. These efforts maintain a consistent cycle of engagement that honors the efforts of educators within the Lubbock school systems.
The takeaway
The ongoing success of this program demonstrates the high level of community participation in honoring local school staff. Families interested in participating should monitor the monthly nomination schedule to ensure their teachers are considered.
Further reading
For more information on school programs, visit Secondary Education.
More information
To submit an educator for consideration, visit the teacher nomination portal.
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Do corporate-sponsored recognition programs improve the quality of local schools in your area?
