Don Quijote Hispanic Educator Excellence Award Nomination Form

Originally a part of the Hispanic Heritage Awards for Excellence, the Don Quijote Educator Awards were established to recognize individuals in education who support student dreams, foster the notion that obstacles can be overcome and make the dream that seems impossible become possible. Don Quijote educators are not only those who stand at the head of the class; they are also found in the cafeteria, in the school office, on the school bus, in school hallways. They are individuals who patiently listen and encourage mutual help and respect. LULAC, Hispanic Heritage, and LISTOS West Texas are proud to acknowledge these individuals who make a positive impact on students.

UPDATED Nomination Deadline: SATURDAY, OCTOBER 3, 2026.

Purpose

This award recognizes three exemplar Hispanic educators — one from an elementary campus, one from a middle school campus, and one from a high school campus whose teaching and presence have made a lasting, positive difference in students’ lives. It honors educators whose support, encouragement, advocacy, and mentorship have shaped students’ confidence, sense of belonging, and success at every stage of their K–12 journey.

Step 1 -- Award Categories Check appropriate level; one educator will be selected from each of the following campus levels. One form per nominee.

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Elementary School Educator of the Year

Middle School Educator of the Year

High School Educator of the Year

Step 2 — Nominee Information

Nominee Name

Years of Service in Role

Grade Level

Campus

Position/Title

Nominee’s Cell Phone Number

Nominee’s Other Phone Number

Nominee’s Email Address

Nominee’s Other Email Address

Step 3 — Nominator Information

Nominator Name

Nominator Cell Phone

Email Address of Nominator

Relationship to Nominee

Other

Step 4 -- Eligibility Criteria Confirmation To be eligible for nomination, an educator must meet ALL of the following. Nominator must confirm all information below before completing the narrative below:

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To the best of my knowledge, the nominee self-identifies as Hispanic or Latino/a/x.

The nominee is currently employed as a classroom teacher or licensed educator at the nominating campus in Ector County.

The nominee has served as an educator in this role for a minimum of three (3) years at this campus and/or within Ector County.

The nominee is currently employed in this role at the nominating campus.

I can provide specific examples of how this individual has supported, encouraged, advocated for, and mentored students.

A photograph/headshot (png, jpeg file preferred) of the nominee is be attached.

Step 5 -- Nomination Section--Five Areas of Students’ School Life

For each section below, please provide specific, concrete examples. General praise alone cannot be scored by the committee — specific stories, dates, and outcomes are most helpful.

1. Academic Growth & Achievement Describe how the nominee fosters the student's academic confidence, skills, and progress through instruction, feedback, or academic guidance.

2. Social-Emotional Well-Being Describe how the nominee attends to students’ emotional needs, helps build resilience and self-regulation, and creates a sense of safety and trust.

3. Cultural Identity & Belonging Describe how the nominee affirms students’ cultural identity and heritage and helps students feel a genuine sense of belonging on campus.

4. Character & Personal Development Describe how the nominee models integrity, work ethic, and positive values; helps students develop confidence, responsibility, and good decision-making.

5. Future Readiness & Aspirations Describe how the nominee helps students envision and prepare for life beyond the current campus – college, career, or life goals – including as a relatable role model.