Shanna Biddison and Russ Fulbright were recently surprised with representatives from Mrs. Baird’s and United Supermarkets as they named her the Elementary and Middle School Teachers on the Rise winner for October.
The Mrs. Baird's Teachers on the Rise award is a monthly teacher recognition program across the Lubbock area where students can nominate their teachers for going above and beyond. Each month a different teacher is selected from elementary school, middle school, and high school.
Maddyn Alejandro, an 8th grade student at Frenship Middle School nominated Russ Fulbright for this award. In Alejandro’s nomination letter she explains how Fulbright has impacted her time at FMS.
“Mr. Fulbright is just awesome, not just a teacher but a person as well. Every day he makes sure to be kind and funny with all his students,” said Alejandro. “I can't name one student of his that doesn't like him. Broadcast has now been my favorite class for the past two years.”
One thing that Alejandro appreciates about Fulbright is his intentionality with others, she shares how he always manages to radiate positivity.
“He always asks how everyone is; notices when we're down and makes us feel better. He has many inside jokes with his students, and just has such a good personality that he can make anyone smile even on a bad day. He and I even have our own secret handshake we do every time we see each other in the hallway. He gives me lots of advice and inspiration on how to be a better person for myself and others. He's genuinely one of the best people I have met,” said Alejandro.
Fulbright has been at Frenship Middle School for 19 years; he previously had a career in the television industry and transitioned into education. His biggest goal in the classroom is to be a positive influence for students.
“I am grateful to have the opportunity to make a positive impact at Frenship Middle School, and I couldn’t do it without the support of my colleagues, students, and the wonderful Frenship community,” said Fulbright.
He feels blessed to be named the middle school recipient and see the fruits of his labor come to life. Having Maddyn Alejandro in his class over the past two years has equally been rewarding for him. He credits much of this award to Maddyn, herself for being an outstanding student to have.
“I am truly honored to be selected as the recipient of the Mrs. Baird's Teacher on the Rise Award. It is a privilege to work at Frenship Middle School and to be part of a community that values the growth and development of every student,” said Fulbright. “I've known Maddyn Alejandro for two years, and she's one of the hardest-working and most thoughtful students I know. Honestly, if anyone deserves recognition, it's Maddyn. She's kind to her classmates, has an amazing work ethic, and is 100% reliable. I’m lucky to have her in class.”
Shana Biddison, a Kindergarten teacher at Oak Ridge Elementary was nominated by the Mitchell Family, on behalf of their son, Jaxon. In the nomination letter, mother, MaryAnn Mitchell shares how Biddison has provided immense support for their son.
“Mrs Biddison is an actual God sent teacher. Every day she contacts me from her personal number to let me know how great my son is doing or what my son needs help with and how WE (her and us parents) can work to help him better inside and outside the classroom,” said Mitchell.
Mitchell expressed deep gratitude for Biddison's consistent dedication, emphasizing how her efforts have created a nurturing and supportive environment for Jaxon.
“She has shared lots of love and kindness towards my son and me so far this year. She has cried with me and celebrated every milestone my son has made no matter how small,” said Mitchell. “She deserves this award more than anything! She’s DEFINITELY a teacher on the rise!”
Biddison feels grateful to be selected as the elementary school recipient and believes that both parents and educators play a huge role in the success of students.
“It is an honor to have been selected as the “October Teacher on the Rise Award”! Frenship families are so appreciative and want to be involved in their student’s education. It takes a village to raise and teach kids,” said Biddison.
This will be Biddison's 19th year in education, and she feels deeply fulfilled by the opportunity to continue making a difference in the lives of her students.
“I went into education to be a positive role model for kids. This is my 2nd year with Frenship ISD and it is a remarkable place to be,” said Biddison. “Teachers are given the autonomy to do what is best for their students. Students perform well for that. I have heard people say love what you do, and you won’t have to work another day in your life. Teachers have such a significant role in our students' lives. I try to change the world, one kid at a time.”
Both Shana Biddison and Russ Fulbright received a $100 gift card from United Supermarkets and a meal for two at The Texas Tech Club. As a part of nominating a teacher, the students who nominated Shana and Russ also won a $50 American Express gift card from Mrs. Baird’s. Both teachers will be honored at the Teacher on the Rise celebration at the end of the school year.
For information on how you can nominate a Frenship educator for the Mrs. Baird's Teacher on the Rise Award, CLICK HERE.
Congratulations, Shana Biddison and Russ Fulbright!
To view the full photo album of all Frenship Teachers on the Rise recipients this school year, CLICK HERE.