Six LU graduates named among Nederland ISD Teachers of the Year

Six Lamar University (LU) graduates have been recognized among Nederland Independent School District's 2026-27 Teachers of the Year honorees, highlighting the university's impact on educator preparation across Southeast Texas.

Nederland ISD recently announced its campus and district-level Teachers of the Year, with five of the seven honorees earning degrees from Lamar University.

Among the recipients is Leslie (Myers) Sonnier, a 2009 graduate, who was named both Highland Park Elementary School's New Teacher of the Year and Nederland ISD's New Teacher of the Year for 2026-27. Sonnier earned a Bachelor of Science in exercise science and fitness management from LU.

Callie (Macon) Trevino, who earned a Bachelor of Science in interdisciplinary studies from LU in 2018, was named Helena Park Elementary School Teacher of the Year. Trevino was also recognized by the Nederland Chamber of Commerce and Tourist Bureau as its November 2025 Teacher of the Month.

Kara (Hammonds) Smith, a 2002 graduate with a Bachelor of Science in interdisciplinary studies, was named Highland Park Elementary School Teacher of the Year. Smith also earned the distinction of Nederland ISD Elementary Teacher of the Year for 2026-27.

Lucy (Nguyen) Hernandez, who graduated from LU in 2015 with a Bachelor of Science in interdisciplinary studies, was selected as Hillcrest Elementary School Teacher of the Year.

Sarah (Landry) Seigrist, a 2005 graduate with a Bachelor of Science in kinesiology, was named Langham Elementary School Teacher of the Year.

Robbi (Ackerman) Hussey, who earned a Bachelor of Science in psychology from LU in 2006, was selected as C.O. Wilson Middle School Teacher of the Year.

The recognition of LU alumni among Nederland ISD's top educators reflects the university's longstanding role in preparing teachers and education professionals who serve schools throughout Southeast Texas.