When Fields Store Elementary (FSE) Reading Interventionist Meredith Silvas arrived at the library for a meeting, she had no idea what was waiting for her. In the library, FSE Principal Melissa Crosby gathered a group of Silvas’ fellow staff members, students, and daughters for a surprise announcement. Silvas had just been named one of First Community Credit Union’s (FCCU) Texans Stars of the Classroom.
“I had no idea! The students began talking about teachers who make a difference in students’ lives and explained that a student had nominated me for the First Community Credit Union Texans Stars of the Classroom,” Silvas said. “I was speechless and immediately brought to tears. My students and my girls looked at me and my heart was overwhelmed!”
Each year, FCCU and the Houston Texans partner to award the title of Texans Stars of the Classroom to 10 Houston area educators. Students in elementary through high school nominate teachers who they feel have made an impact on their lives by writing a 500-word essay on why they nominated their teacher. Fifth-grade student Lee Castillo nominated Silvas.
“As an educator, your greatest hope is to make a difference in the lives you touch,” Silvas said. “Lee is an incredible young man! He is kind, intelligent, funny, a hard worker, and has amazing perseverance.”
As part of the award, Silvas was given a Stars of the Classroom custom game ball with her name, a Stars in the Classroom tote bag, water bottle, and yard sign, and 
the school was awarded a $500 donation in her honor. Members of the Houston Texans team were also present, via Zoom, to honor Silvas and all her hard work.
“This is such a bright spot for our school,” Principal Melissa Crosby said. “Silvas has such a heart for students and is always there to help them in any way she can. She absolutely deserves this recognition!”
Silvas has worked in education for 17 years within Waller ISD, 15 years at FSE and two years at Jones Elementary. She served for 10 years as a teacher and is in her seventh year as a dyslexia specialist and reading interventionist. Silvas believes in developing relationships with students and parents, and learning from her students.
“Teach with your heart! Invest time in making connections with your students, let them know how special and valuable they are, and believe in them,” Silvas said. “The best thing about being a teacher is sharing your love of learning and having the opportunity to make a difference!”
Congratulations Meredith Silvas on being a 2020 Star in the Classroom! Thank you for your dedication to education and your #WISDgreatness.
