As the 2024–25 school year winds down, members of the Spring ISD Board of Trustees made surprise visits to several campuses on April 24 to present the Spring ISD Employee Excellence Awards—honoring individuals who consistently go above and beyond to support our students, families, and district community.
Board President Justine Durant, Vice President Natasha McDaniel, and trustees Winford Adams Jr. and Dr. Deborah Jensen were joined by Superintendent Dr. Lupita Hinojosa and other administrators to deliver the news to the winning staff members.
The Employee Excellence Award, allows district staff, students, families, and community members to nominate Spring ISD employees who exemplify the district’s core values of engagement, equity, excellence, and collaboration.
Each month, winners are presented with a certificate and a special Spring ISD recognition pin. Additionally, all honorees are automatically considered for the district’s annual Employee of the Year award.
Karla Arroyo Espinosa, Academics Team – Emerging Bilingual Students
A proud product of Spring ISD and graduate of Spring High School, Karla Arroyo Espinosa serves as a vital member of the district’s Academics team, where she supports emerging bilingual students with a strong sense of leadership, service, and relationship-building. Known for being outcome-driven and service-oriented, Espinosa leads with heart and purpose, drawing from her own personal experiences as a former emergent bilingual student.
“When I think about all the students that need my help, I remember that I was once that emergent bilingual student who needed help,” Espinosa said. “When I think about that, it makes me want to work extra hard for those kids. I do it to make sure they are taken care of.”
Nicole Ocasio Vargas, Administrative Assistant to the Director of Performing and Visual Arts
Described as the backbone of the Performing and Visual Arts department, Nicole Ocasio Vargas provides critical support not only to the director but to the entire PVA team and teachers across the district. Always available to lend a helping hand, she is admired for her professionalism, respectful nature, and leadership. Her dedication makes the PVA department a warm and supportive place for staff and students alike.
“This means so much to me,” Ocasio Vargas said through tears. “The people in the PVA department are more than coworkers; they have become my family. I come to work not just to support teachers, but because it is my happy place.”
Johnny Williams, Performing and Visual Arts Coordinator of Arts Integration
As the Performing and Visual Arts Coordinator of Arts Integration, Johnny Williams is recognized for his unwavering leadership and commitment to excellence. His work was particularly visible during the State of the District event, where he helped prepare students to shine on a major stage. A strategist with an eye for detail, Williams consistently puts students first, ensuring they are ready to succeed.
“Being able to work somewhere every day where you are appreciated means so much,” Williams said. “It is a blessing from the Lord, and I am forever grateful for my team.”
Jamarcus Gallien, Custodian, Bammel Middle School
Known across the Bammel Middle School campus for his positive attitude and strong work ethic, Jamarcus Gallien performs the countless unseen tasks that keep the school running smoothly. Always working with a smile, he uplifts everyone around him, setting a high standard of dedication and pride in every task he tackles.
“I am so thankful for this award,” Gallien said. “I just try to do a good job each day, and to be recognized means a lot to me.”
Crystal White, 6th Grade Assistant Principal Secretary, Bailey Middle School
Crystal White, secretary to the 6th grade assistant principal at Bailey Middle School, is celebrated for exceeding expectations through her exceptional dedication, versatility, and compassion. Supporting more than 350 sixth graders and 25-plus staff members, she ensures seamless operations with kindness, professionalism, and positivity every step of the way.
“I appreciate everyone who believes in me and trusts me,” White said. “I appreciate Spring, and I appreciate my principals, especially Dr. Booker, who is like a second mother to me.”
Trustees presented each award recipient with a framed certificate and a special Spring ISD recognition pin. Each Employee Excellence Award winner also receives a check, made possible by the support of the Spring ISD Education Foundation.
Nominations for the award can be made by any employee, parent, or community member. To learn more, or to nominate a Spring ISD employee, visit www.springisd.org/employee-recognition.