Nadia Paz Named 2025 District Elementary Teacher of the Year

Tears of joy welled in the eyes of Nadia Paz, Blackshear Elementary Bilingual Teacher, as she was announced as the 2025 Klein ISD District Elementary Teacher of the Year.

“She is so good at her career because it is her life’s purpose; she walks through the purpose God has for her.” 

Blackshear Elementary teacher Sylvia Crawford’s words about Ms. Paz are a testament to her lasting impression on those around her during a decades-long educational career. 

Over the past 24 years, Mrs. Paz has educated hundreds of students, 14 of those years devoted to teaching bilingual 4th and 5th graders at Blackshear Elementary.

"Ms. Paz embodies the very best of Klein ISD,” Klein ISD Superintendent Dr. McGown said. “She builds excellent relationships with her students, fosters a classroom rooted in trust and belonging, and creates learning experiences to challenge their academic growth, while connecting them to their families, community, and passions. Her commitment to empathy and excellence inspires all of us. We are truly grateful to have her in our Klein Family."

Ms. Paz’s passion for her students goes far beyond classroom lessons. Her bond with her students is undeniable, as she recalls telling them about the recognition.  

“The day following this recognition, I spoke with my students— affectionately known as my ‘Pazitos’. I told them, ‘Last night, I received an award acknowledging your hard work. I am honored to be recognized as Klein’s District Elementary Teacher of the Year, but this award belongs to all of you. Your dedication inspires me to work hard every day, and therefore, I want you to share in this achievement,” Ms. Paz recounts. “As I passed the trophy around the classroom, witnessing their reactions and tears was a truly rewarding experience. Seeing my students filled with pride makes this recognition even more meaningful, as it also shines a light on their achievements.”

In May 2001, Ms. Paz earned a Bachelor of Arts degree, specializing in bilingual education, biology, and English. From the beginning of her career, she knew that working with bilingual students was her calling. She has prioritized building strong, long-term relationships with her students throughout her career. 

“When we think about the word 'blessing,’ that is Mrs. Paz,” Blackshear Elementary Principal Ashley Baker said. “She gives more than I’ve ever seen anyone give to her kiddos. Whether academically, emotionally, or physically, she is making sure they have everything they need to be successful here at Blackshear and beyond.”

Earning multiple Campus Teacher of the Year awards during her time in Klein ISD, there is no mistaking that Ms. Paz is held in high esteem by her students, colleagues, and leadership. From tailoring lessons to accommodate her newcomers to ensuring lessons are rigorous enough for her more advanced students, Ms. Paz pays close attention to details so every student has the education they deserve. 

Congratulations to Ms. Nadia Paz on this outstanding achievement. We are so blessed to have educators like you who lead with every student in mind. Thank you for all you do!