WhataBurger shares the love for teachers
Teacher Appreciation Week kicked off with a Texas flavor for two Teacher of the Year finalists, who were surprised with monetary awards and burgers for all team members at their schools as part of the WhataTeacher of the Year recognition.
Rosamaria Alvarado Jimenez at F.P. Caillet Elementary School and Saraid Driskell at Solar Preparatory School for Boys were awarded a $1,000 grant each to use for their classroom or a school project. The grants are part of Whataburger’s Feeding Student Success program, which focuses on charitable giving at the intersection of food insecurity and education.
“Teachers are true heroes,” said Donna Tuttle, Whataburger vice president of marketing and communications. “Many of us still remember our favorite teacher and the impact they made on our lives. Whataburger’s free breakfast offer and WhataTeacher grants are just small ways we try to say thank you for their powerful work.”
The recognition was made possible thanks to the Dallas Education Foundation working together with Whataburger to receive and disburse the funding.
“Through their partnership with the Dallas Education Foundation, Whataburger is committed to uplifting and supporting Dallas ISD students and teachers,” said Mita Havlick, executive director of DEF. This is the second year in a row for Whataburger to honor two teachers in Dallas ISD.
A proud product of Dallas ISD, Rosamaria “Rosy” Alvarado Jiménez is a kindergarten dual language teacher at F.P. Caillet Elementary. Alvarado Jiménez is the sixth of 10 siblings. Her parents emigrated to Dallas from San Luis Potosí, Mexico. Alvarado, who has taught in the district for 26 years, is an Exemplary rated teacher and has also earned a Master designation through the Texas Teacher Incentive Allotment. Some of Alvarado Jiménez’s leadership roles include TEI Campus Expert, grade-level chair, and mentor to novice teachers. Alvarado Jiménez is committed to learning and implementing innovative teaching practices as well as helping each student achieve their greatest academic and social potential as they prepare for their future. Alvarado Jiménez holds a Bachelor of Arts in Spanish from Southern Methodist University.
Saraid Driskell is a fifth-grade math and science teacher at Solar Preparatory School for Boys. She is a first-generation Mexican American whose parents emigrated from Mexico City and is the first in her family to obtain a college degree. Driskell has used her lifetime passion for education to foster a love for learning in her students. A 19-year veteran teacher, she is a an Exemplary rated teacher. Driskell serves in various leadership roles such as chair of the science department and culture and house system, coordinator of project-based learning, and sponsor of the debate team. Driskell believes in investing and building relationships with students to foster a sense of belonging and community. Beyond her campus, Driskell has led professional development for various schools across the nation, helping teachers implement blended learning in an engaging and innovative way. Driskell holds a bachelor’s degree in Criminal Justice Administration from Park University and is currently pursuing graduate studies.
