Plummer Middle School Teacher Joseph Stewart Honored With $30,000 Kinder Excellence in Teaching Award

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Plummer Middle School educator Joseph Stewart is beaming, holding the $30,000 gift from the Kinder Foundation. On hand to celebrate with him were leaders from Teach for America, campus leaders and staff, and Aldine ISD leadership. Also present were Stewart’s family and several of his students.

Joseph Stewart, an exemplary math teacher at Plummer Middle School, was in for a surprise recently. What he thought was a routine staff training turned into a heartwarming celebration. Surrounded by his family, colleagues, and district leaders, Stewart was presented with the Kinder Excellence in Teaching Award, one of the region’s most prestigious honors.

The award, funded by the Kinder Foundation and administered in partnership with Teach For America and other partners, comes with a $30,000 gift. Stewart, entering his eighth year in education — all but one in Aldine ISD — was left nearly speechless.

“When I saw the check and heard the amount, I was in disbelief,” Stewart said with humility. “Never in my life would I believe something like this would happen to me. It’s one thing to be honored, but to be rewarded with such an amount is amazing. I am very grateful, honored, and proud.”

Making a Career Change to Teach

Stewart (far left) stands in disbelief at hearing the real reason for the gathering. He is joined by Tiffany Cuellar Needham, executive director of TFA-Houston; Aldine ISD Superintendent Dr. LaTonya M. Goffney, and Principal Detrick McAfee (l-r).

Stewart began his teaching in Tennessee, but one year later, he joined Aldine — where he was educated. He entered the education field after 20 years with the U.S. Postal Service, a decade as a church administrator, and nine years with the State of Texas. At 57, he joined Teach For America, stepping into a classroom for the first time. His impact was immediate.

“Mr. Stewart transforms math instruction by making complex concepts accessible, engaging, and relevant for all students,” said Principal Detrick McAfee. “He ensures that every scholar experiences academic growth and empowers students to take ownership of their learning. His unwavering commitment to excellence makes him a deserving recipient of this award.”

This year, Stewart steps into a new role as a multi-classroom leader (MCL), mentoring fellow educators while continuing to teach. Assistant Principal Wesley Hemenas, who nominated Stewart for the award, called him “a phenomenal leader” who makes students feel safe, respected, and excited to learn. His leadership has significantly contributed to the positive and vibrant learning environment at Plummer Middle School.

“Walking into his classroom, you can immediately feel the energy and buzz,” shared Hemenas, highlighting the joy and energy in Stewart’s classroom. “They are all excited to be there and are working hard. This is what we strive for at Plummer Middle School — excellence.

“Teachers often give more than they will ever receive. Mr. Stewart is an example of this. It is fantastic that Kinder Foundation recognizes exemplary teachers like Mr. Stewart through the Kinder Excellence in Teaching Award. I am thrilled that he is getting recognized in such a big way. I hope it will inspire other teachers and reassure students and their families that we have teachers who impart high-quality education here at Plummer Middle School.”

A Teacher Who Transforms Learning

Hemenas shared that Stewart was selected for the new role due to his consistently high evaluations and high student-learning results. Under the Teacher Incentive Allotment (TIA), Stewart is designated “Exemplary.”

“I develop positive connections with my students,” said Stewart. “We set rigorous goals, but we believe they can be achieved. I ask my students if other students are more capable than they are — we all agree that they are not. So we work hard. We listen to the data to recognize our strengths and address areas where we need to focus.”

A Lasting Impact

Stewart also started the school’s Student Council, which provides students with opportunities to develop essential leadership and citizenship skills, gives students a voice, and improves the overall school environment through activities, community service, and positive communication.

The surprise unfolded in Plummer’s library, decorated with balloons and cupcakes. Stewart’s family, including his wife and five children, was in attendance. His daughter Alana was inspired by her father’s career change. The former engineer is now a math teacher at Young Women’s Leadership Academy.

District leaders also joined in the celebration, including Superintendent Dr. LaTonya M. Goffney, Chief Academics Officer Dr. Faviola Cantú, Chief of Schools Officer Dr. Javier Villarreal, Chief Transformation Officer Dr. Adrian Bustillos, Chief Human Resources Officer Marcia Herrera, Chief of School Improvement Diaka Melendez, Chief Communications Officer Sheila Adams, and School Assistant Superintendent Dr. Crystal Watson.

Representatives from Teach For America were also present: Maria Nuñez, head of development; Ally Peterson, managing director of development; Natalie Rice, senior management director of district impact; and Tiffany Cuellar Needham, executive director of TFA-Houston. Needham, who presented the award on behalf of Kinder Foundation, praised Stewart’s dedication and described him as a teacher making a “lasting impact on students’ lives.” She also shared that this was the first time a teacher in AISD had been recognized by Kinder Foundation.

Goffney echoed those sentiments: “Every student deserves a great teacher. People have choices, and Mr. Stewart chose Aldine ISD. It does my heart good that he did. Thank you for what you do for our students.”

Showing What is Possible for Our Students

The superintendent also stated that Aldine ISD is proud to partner with TFA, emphasizing that every student deserves a great teacher.

Sixth grader Malachi Proshee, one of Stewart’s former students, added his own words: “Mr. Stewart is a really nice, really good teacher.”

Speaking of his students, Stewart’s “why” for teaching is clear.

“My students remind me daily that the impossible is possible,” shared Stewart. “My mission as their leader is to equip them with the confidence, integrity, and resilience to take on every challenge life sends their way. Even though I can be hard on them sometimes as I push them to a higher bar, they still ask me which period is my favorite. This shows that they want to do their best if that is what is expected of them. I don’t seek out recognition. I have kids that I really enjoy working with.”

Teaching Isn’t About Perfection — it’s About Persistence

Stewart (center) poses with his family and Principal Stewart.

Stewart had been reflecting on his life, hoping that he had made a positive impact on students’ lives. He shared that he believes that his work in the middle school classroom is “definitely where he is supposed to be.” He is so excited to teach students that on the first day of school this school year, he texted his family a message expressing his gratitude for the opportunity to work in Aldine at this time in his life.

For Stewart, who is turning 65 later this year, the award was both validation and motivation. “This recognition affirms the unseen moments of dedication and belief in my students,” he said. “It reminds me that every effort to inspire confidence and growth truly matters.”

He has big plans for the $30,000 prize, from a long-dreamed-of trip to Cancún to building an outdoor kitchen for family gatherings. But more than anything, he hopes the recognition inspires his students and colleagues.

“The award is a reminder that what we do every day makes a lasting impact,” Stewart said. “Excellence in teaching isn’t about perfection — it’s about persistence, love for our students, and the belief that every child can grow. If this award says anything, it’s that our work is powerful, our calling is meaningful, and together we are shaping what is to become.”

Since 2001, the Kinder Excellence in Teaching Awards have granted over $5.3 million to 323 teachers. This year, a total of $360,000 was granted to 12 teachers from the following networks: Catholic Schools in the Archdiocese of Galveston – Houston; KIPP Texas Public Schools – Houston; Teach For America Houston in Aldine ISD and Houston ISD; and YES Prep Public Schools.

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