Bernardo Velez Rico teaches AP English and a dual-enrollment college course at North Dallas. ” I don’t take this recognition lightly,” he said. (Photo from Dallas ISD Facebook page)
North Dallas AP English teacher Bernardo Velez Rico learned the transformative power of education from his parents. The son of immigrants from rural Guanajuato, Rico has been on a mission to help students exceed their own expectations and those imposed by others. His dedication was recognized when he was named the Secondary Teacher of the Year on May 6 at the Dallas ISD’s 2025 State of the District at the Winspear Opera House.
According to a DISD news story, Rico’s journey as a teacher began four years ago as a member of the district’s Latino Residency Program, and he took on roles including mentor teacher, Teacher Excellence Initiative campus expert, AP Ally, content study group leader for the Alternative Certification Program, OnRamps district content lead, and virtual conference facilitator with The University of Texas at Austin…