What began as a passion for helping children believe in themselves has now earned Casey Sade Archield one of Houston’s top honors in education.

The Spring ISD 2024–2025 Teacher of the Year and Reynolds Elementary third-grade mathematics teacher was named Houston’s Favorite Teacher by the Houston Chronicle during its citywide National Teacher Appreciation Week contest, earning the top spot among 60 nominated educators from across the Houston area.

For students at Reynolds Elementary, the recognition simply confirms what they already experience every day inside Archield’s classroom: learning that is joyful, memorable and deeply personal.

Whether she is using candy bars to teach fractions, creating songs and dances to help students remember math concepts, or turning ordinary classroom moments into unforgettable lessons, Archield believes students learn best when they feel connected, engaged and seen.

“I’ll do whatever it takes to make learning fun and memorable for my students,” Archield said with a laugh. “I’m going to sing a song, do whatever little jingle I can just to find that engagement and help my students make a real-world connection.”

Spring ISD Superintendent Dr. Kregg Cuellar said Archield represents the passion, creativity and commitment educators bring to classrooms across Spring ISD every day.

“Ms. Archield is a shining example of what dedicated teaching looks like, and this recognition reflects the life-changing impact she makes on students every single day,” Cuellar said. “Her ability to inspire confidence, excitement and a love for learning is exactly what public education is all about, and Spring ISD is incredibly proud to celebrate this well-deserved honor.”

At Reynolds Elementary, colleagues describe Archield as a teacher who goes beyond academics to ensure students feel valued and capable of success.

Principal Tim Livingston said her influence reaches far beyond the classroom walls.

“Ms. Archield creates a classroom where students feel safe to take risks, ask questions and believe in their own potential,” Livingston said. “She brings energy, style, and excellence into every lesson, and the impact she has on children — and the lives of her fellow educators as well — will stay with them long after they leave her classroom. This recognition is a true reflection of the difference she makes in the lives of students and families every day.”

For Archield, the honor also represents a deeply personal journey.

Before becoming an award-winning educator, she faced setbacks and self-doubt while pursuing her teaching certification. Today, she openly shares that journey with others as a reminder that perseverance, resilience and her personal motto, “being positive on purpose,” can help people push through life’s toughest moments. 

“What we go through can become hope for someone else,” Archield said. “The challenges and setbacks I faced were not just obstacles. They helped shape me into the teacher I am today. If my story can encourage someone else to keep going, keep believing and never give up on themselves, then every challenge was worth it.”