EL PASO, TEXAS — A longtime El Paso middle school teacher is being recognized across Texas for her work with students and her efforts to promote patriotism and civic responsibility.

Jennifer Rodriguez, a teacher at William D. Slider Middle School, was named the Texas VFW Middle School Teacher of the Year in January at the Veterans of Foreign Wars Mid-Winter Conference in Corpus Christi.

School Spotlight:{ }El Paso teacher named Texas VFW middle school teacher

As an educator for 23 years, Rodriguez, a reading and language arts teacher, has taught at Slider for 10 years. She was nominated for the honor by VFW District 10 Post 2451 and selected from over 200 middle school applicants across Texas.

Rodriguez said the honor initially surprised her. “At first I thought it was a joke but when I realized it wasn’t. I broke down in tears,” she said.

Rodriguez has been teaching for 23 years and said she focuses on instilling values students can carry beyond the classroom. “I always tell the kids remember who you represent when you walk out that door, we all represent our families,” she said.

Students described Rodriguez as a supportive presence in the classroom. “Everyone loves here cause not only is she a kind person but she always wants to help other people and find ways to help them learn,” said Jorge Gamez, a seventh-grade student.

Mirah Rodriguez, also a seventh-grade student, praised her teaching style and connection with students. “She’s really good at teaching, She’s good at making friends with her students, She’s the best teacher I’ve had,” she said.

Rodriguez said the award also has special meaning for her family. Last year, her daughter was accepted into the U.S. Air Force Academy Prep School, and Rodriguez said being recognized by veterans was unexpected. “I’m honored for them to even think that i was at that level,” she said.

Rodriguez will now advance to the national VFW Teacher of the Year selection process. She said she is proud to represent Texas and the El Paso community.

The VFW Teacher of the Year Award honors exceptional K–12 educators across the United States who inspire civic responsibility in their classrooms and communities.