District News

WACO, Texas – The Texas Association of School Administrators (TASA) announced today that six educators from across Texas have been chosen as finalists in the 2026 Texas Teacher of the Year program.

According to TASA, a panel of judges composed of representatives of Texas teacher associations and last year’s Texas Teacher of the Year finalists selected the finalists from the 40 Texas Regional Teachers of the Year — one elementary and one secondary teacher from each of the 20 Texas Education Service Center regions.

Taylor Adame, Waco High School Social Studies Department Head and U.S. History teacher, is one of the six chosen finalists from across the state. Adame has been in education for ten years, previously serving for four years at another Waco ISD campus and one year in Duncanville ISD.

Passionate about connecting historical events to contemporary issues, Adame encourages her students to analyze the past to apply its lessons to the present. She hopes that her classroom is where history shifts into action and empowers her students to shape their community. 

Adame's influence goes far beyond her classroom though. She is a driving force in establishing a school culture where every student is seen, supported, and valued. Knowing that her impact isn't limited to the students on her roster, she actively works to help all students at Waco High School build brighter futures.

"What Taylor Adame is doing at Waco High School is a powerful example of how a great teacher can transform lives," said Dr. Tiffany Spicer, Superintendent of Waco ISD. "Her dedication and student-centered approach inspire success, and we couldn't be more proud of her. This honor truly highlights the exceptional work of our educators and shows how Wisdom Works Wonders across our district."

To be a successful teacher at Waco ISD, Adame knew she needed to understand and engage with students from diverse backgrounds and abilities. Adame chooses to teach on-level or inclusion classes, which truly reflect Waco High School’s demographics, because she hopes to uplift marginalized voices. Additionally, Adame noticed how support often centers around high achievers and students needing intervention, and felt motivated to ensure all students’ needs are met with compassionate presence.

"Taylor Adame has a remarkable gift for seeing and empowering every student," said Waco High School Principal Joseph Alexander. "She purposefully chooses to teach in a way that reflects our school's diversity, ensuring that every voice is heard and that statistics never define a student's potential. Her advocacy for a culturally relevant curriculum and intentional support has created a powerful environment where students who may have been hesitant are now speaking up and succeeding. We are incredibly proud of her dedication to all students at Waco High."

Adame and the other five finalists will be interviewed Oct. 16 by a panel of judges composed of representatives of educational leadership associations, community and business leaders, a member of the State Board for Educator Certification, a member of the State Board of Education, and prior Texas Teachers of the Year, according to TASA.

The panel will select two state-level winners — Elementary Teacher of the Year and Secondary Teacher of the Year — and designate one to represent Texas in the National Teacher of the Year program. The winners will be announced at an awards ceremony Oct. 17 Kalahari Resort & Conventions in Round Rock, Texas, where the 40 Regional Teachers of the Year will also be recognized.