Frenship ISD is proud to celebrate Bennett Elementary’s Jessica Hantz as the May Mrs. Baird’s Teacher on the Rise recipient. The Mrs. Baird’s Teachers on the Rise award is a monthly recognition program in the Lubbock area where students, families, and community members nominate educators who go above and beyond in the classroom. Each month, one teacher is selected from elementary, middle, and high schools.
Jessica Hantz has been teaching since 2009 and has spent 16 years dedicated to supporting students and helping them grow academically, socially, and emotionally in her life skills classroom. She was nominated by her husband, Henry Hantz, who highlighted her unwavering commitment to her students and her selfless approach to education.
“Jessica is one of the hardest-working teachers I have known. She has now been doing this for 16 years and is always in it for her students,” the nomination letter reads. “She does the daily grind, comes home, and is a fantastic mother to our daughter and wife to me.”
The nomination also emphasized Jessica’s dedication beyond the school day and her consistent willingness to support students, families, and colleagues.
“It is not uncommon for her to work after hours answering parents’ questions or helping her teammates with whatever they need,” said Henry. “She goes above and beyond for everyone she engages with, and gives everything 100 percent. She is the true definition of not just a great employee but a great teacher and person.”
Jessica was also recognized for her work with special needs students at Bennett Elementary and the supportive classroom environment she helps create.
“She was nominated for her dedication to serving the special needs students at Bennett Elementary and for the positive, lasting impact she makes in the lives of her students every single day,” the nomination states. “Her compassion, patience, and commitment to helping each student grow and succeed create a supportive and encouraging learning environment where all students feel valued and loved.”
As part of the recognition, Hantz received a $100 gift card from United Supermarkets, a meal for two at The Texas Tech Club, and a selection of goodies from Mrs. Baird’s.
Frenship ISD is proud to celebrate Jessica Hantz for her dedication to excellence and the meaningful difference she makes in the lives of her students each day. Congratulations, Jessica Hantz! We are thankful for your leadership.