Killeen ISD is recognizing a hard-working bilingual teacher and a longtime computer aide and parent educator as STEEL Award winners for the month of January.
Bilingual teacher Moraima Rosario from Pershing Park Elementary and Computer Aide Robert Magonigal from Clear Creek Elementary were named the first recipients of the district's prestigious employee recognition in the new year.
Ms. Moraima Rosario, Bilingual Teacher at Pershing Park Elementary, is known for her creative lessons and ability to connect with students and their parents.
Rosario began her career at KISD as a Teacher's Aide, and later served as the campus' Parent Liaison before becoming a certified teacher. She selflessly inspires her colleagues and volunteers her time to host professional development after-school and on the weekends in order to teach academic English to bilingual aides.
"As a coworker, she inspires me every day to be a better person. She goes out of her way for her students, their parents, and other staff. Her students engage in their learning because she makes it fun and her data reflects it," said Pershing Park's Campus Instructional Specialist Ruth Lake.
Robert Magonigal, Parent Educator and Computer Aide from Clear Creek Elementary was similarly appreciated. Mr. Magonigal serves the campus during the day and in the evenings teaches a free computer skills class to KISD parents and community members.
"Robert has been a blessing to our parenting program for several years and deserves to have his work honored in this way," said Christianne Shinn, Director for Federal and State Programs.
"He is a true servant leader. Robert is fantastic at making parents and community members feel comfortable learning computer skills. He is able to customize his class instruction to best meet the needs of his learners. His classes allow parents to gain confidence in using technology successfully."
During the surprise presentations, Assistant Superintendent for Human Resources David Manley said "Mr. Magonigal not only deserves this recognition for the work he does each and everyday to support the students of Clear Creek Elementary, but also for his selfless resolve to see parents and community members alike become equipped with the 21st century skills they need in order to be successful and grow in their self-confidence."
Superintendent John Craft explained that the award, made of steel, is a strong, resilient substance that matches the district employee recipients.
STEEL means Supporting the Education and Empowerment of Learners. KISD announces two STEEL award recipients a month.
