AMARILLO, Texas (KAMR/KCIT) – The United Family and Mrs Baird’s Bread celebrated six Amarillo area educators as the Teachers On The Rise for April and May, marking the final round of winners for the 13th year of the program.
“We are thrilled to celebrate this final round of winners,” said Abie Rampy, director of public relations for The United Family. “Teachers serve such a vital purpose in our communities, and they are incredibly deserving of recognition. We love this program and look forward to another successful year in the fall! Congratulations to all 27 Teachers on the Rise honorees!”
Gallery: Celebrating the graduates of 2025 on the High Plains
Teachers On The Rise named in April included:
- Gabriela Ruiz of Gus Birdwell Elementary School – Spearman ISD;
- Kendall Snead of Spearman Junior High- Spearman ISD; and
- Steven Lingston of Gruver High School – Gruver ISD.
Teachers On The Rise named in May included:
- Samantha Silva of Humphrey’s Highland Elementary School – Amarillo ISD;
- Terri Crossland of River Road Middle School – River Road ISD; and
- Kaylee Morrison of Amarillo High School – Amarillo ISD.
According to organizers, winning teachers receive a $100 United Supermarkets gift card, a $100 American Express gift card from Tyler’s Barbecue in Amarillo, a $100 Amazon gift card from Horse Creek Boutique in Spearman for classroom supplies, and a gift basket full of Mrs Baird’s products. The students who nominate a winning teacher also receive a $50 American Express gift card.
“This has been a tremendous year for the Teachers On The Rise program,” said Shane Sumrow, the program’s director. “We received more than 2,000 nominations from students and families across the Panhandle telling us about great educators. To date, the program has recognized 351 teachers who demonstrate greatness in our classrooms. We look forward to surprising more teachers this fall!”…