GCISD Employees of the Year

Each year, the Grapevine-Colleyville Education Foundation partners with GCISD to recognize the District Paraprofessional of the Year, Elementary Teacher of the Year and Secondary Teacher of Year.

In addition to the monetary awards provided by grants, set up through the foundation, Park Place Dealerships provides each teacher with a generous gift card and a vehicle to drive for the summer.

Thank you to Park Place Dealerships and our grant patrons for supporting excellence in teaching!

Gina Ramon, Choral Teacher at Cross Timbers Middle School

Recipient of the John T. & Janis A. Eubanks Endowment Grant for the GCISD Secondary Teacher of the Year 2025

Gina Ramon has cultivated an exceptionally inclusive and thriving program. She hosts after school socials for her students to build community, and for two consecutive years her students have performed the National Anthem at Dallas Mavericks games. 

Emma Ackels – Fourth Grade Teacher at Silver Lake Elementary School

Recipient of the Helen Harbison Lucas Endowment Grant for the GCISD Elementary Teacher of the Year 2025

Emma Ackels is a highly involved and dedicated teacher who uses various teaching methods to reach her students. She has also earned the respect of her colleagues and students due to her strong communication skills and structure that she brings to the classroom.

Zainab Ellis – Pre-K Assistant at Grapevine Elementary School

Recipient of the Carolyn Frank GCISD Paraprofessional of the Year 2025

Zainab Ellis can often be found singing with the students in the music room, creating fun activities in the classroom or helping a colleague. Described as the most caring and committed teammate, she also attends many events at GES to support all students.