ROCKWALL, TX (April 29, 2026) Rockwall ISD is proud to announce the 2026 Sheri Stodghill Fowler BEST Teachers of the Year and Legacy Award, recognizing three outstanding first-year educators who have made an exceptional impact in the classroom.
The BEST (Beginning Educators, Successful Teacher) program supports and celebrates first-year teachers across the district, providing mentorship, professional learning, and resources to help them succeed.
This year, Rockwall ISD welcomed 80 new teachers. District leaders identified new teachers who demonstrated significant growth, fostered strong connections with students, and created engaging, supportive learning environments. After a thorough process that included principal nominations, classroom observations, and interviews, two teachers rose to the top.
Alexis Peña, a Pre-K teacher at Amanda Rochell Elementary, has been named the Elementary BEST Teacher of the Year.
“This honor serves as a reminder that the love and dedication I pour into my students does not go unnoticed,” said Peña. “I hope to continue inspiring my students to persevere and to stive for excellence in everything they choose to do.”
At the secondary level, Jessica McCoy, a science teacher at Rockwall High School Ninth Grade Campus, earned the Secondary BEST Teacher of the Year honor. Both educators were selected for their dedication to student success, passion for teaching, and ability to create meaningful learning experiences each day.
“I can’t help but think about the many people I’ve had the privilege of learning from this year,” said McCoy. “Coming into a school community as a new teacher can be overwhelming and intimidating, but everyone around me has been incredibly helpful and supportive.”
New this year, Rockwall ISD introduced the Sheri Stodghill Fowler BEST Legacy Award. This distinction celebrates first-year educators who share a deep-rooted connection to the district—either as graduates of Rockwall ISD or as children of district employees—and honors those who continue a legacy of service within the community.
The 2026 Legacy Award goes to Grace Fowler, a special education teacher at Lupe Garcia Elementary and the daughter of the late Sherri Stodghill Fowler. Grace represents the full-circle impact of Rockwall ISD, returning to serve the same community that helped shape her journey. Legacy educators embody the district’s values and traditions while serving as powerful role models for current students.
“Receiving this award is incredibly meaningful as it represents my family’s legacy, the values I was raised on, and the opportunity to carry those forward in the work I do every day,” said Fowler.
All recipients will be formally recognized at the Rockwall ISD Teacher of the Year Celebration on May 1, honoring their commitment to excellence and their positive influence on students.
Press release and photos submitted by Luci Mouton, Communications Coordinator, Rockwall ISD.
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