Texas teacher Leora Uribe of San Antonio garnered an Outstanding Teaching of the Humanities Award in 2021. She is pictured here with one of her students. Photo Credit: Humanities Texas

I always enjoy sharing stories about exceptional educators who have earned recognition for their work in the classroom. One of these is Leora Uribe, a Social Studies teacher from San Antonio, Texas. She garnered an Outstanding Teaching of the Humanities Award in 2021.

Leora teaches sixth grade at Harlandale Middle School in San Antonio. In the eight years she has taught there, she has instructed courses in US History and Contemporary World Cultures.

Leora obviously shares a passion for her subject. “Social studies examine life and culture—the beauty, passion, and struggle that make us who we are and form the core of our communities,” she declares. “As a teacher of contemporary world cultures, I approach the curriculum with two primary goals for my students: connection and engagement.”

In addition to her work in the classroom, Leora serves her school as the campus coordinator and coach for the University Interscholastic League A+ Academics teams. Also, she is the founder and sponsor of the school’s PEACE Club (Positive Experiences in Art, Culture, and Environment).

This exceptional educator is well-respected on her campus. “Leora is a leader on our campus and in the world of humanities,” declares Harlandale Social Studies Department Chair Kellie George. “We are all truly richer in culture for knowing her.”

The Outstanding Teaching of the Humanities Award recognizes exemplary K-12 humanities teachers throughout the state of Texas. Each year, 12 teachers are selected to receive a $5,000 cash award and an additional $1,000 for their respective schools to purchase humanities-based instructional materials.