Originally posted on April 7, 2025

A normal school day turned into an unforgettable moment at High Country Elementary when Elizabeth Atwood, a third-grade teacher, was surprised in front of her students with balloons, cheers, and the news that she had been named the 2025 recipient of the Texas Christian University (TCU) College of Education’s 2025 Excellence in Education Award (Early Career). 

TCU leaders were joined by members of Atwood’s family, including her husband, parents, brother, sister and brother-in-law, as well as campus and district administrators, to surprise her with the announcement in front of her students. 

The award, presented annually by the TCU College of Education, honors early-career teachers who demonstrate a deep commitment to excellence and have already made a significant impact in the field of education.

Atwood was nominated by Heather Doyle, Director of Accreditation, Certification, and Assessment at TCU, who described her as “an outstanding student and teaching assistant” and praised the supportive environment she now thrives in at High Country Elementary.

Dr. Karrabi Malin, Coordinator of Field Experiences, Alumni Relations, and Career Development at TCU, shared that Atwood’s selection for the award was a testament to her “dedication, passion, and contributions to the field of education.” 

Reflecting on the moment and the recognition, Atwood shared:

“It means everything to me to receive this award. I feel extremely fortunate and grateful to have been gifted an opportunity to represent the two places that have shaped me to be the educator I am. High Country Elementary and Texas Christian University have not only taught me how to be an educator but have also provided the support and unconditional love I have dreamt of obtaining from a university and a workplace. Being gifted with this award validates how truly passionate I am about my career, and I could not feel more appreciative to have been granted one of the winners.

It was the biggest shock to see my family and an even larger surprise to watch my past professor, mentor, and friend, Heather Doyle, walk through my classroom doors. I have never felt more surprised than in that moment. There are no words to describe the feeling other than extremely blessed and grateful to be granted this honor. Go Frogs!”

EMS ISD is proud to celebrate this outstanding achievement and the impact Elizabeth Atwood continues to make in the lives of her students and school community. We are #EMSproud.