Gilbreath Surprised With Regional Teacher of the Month Award

A Prize Patrol rolled up to La Grange elementary Friday and surprised Jaimie Gilbreath in her classroom to let her know she had been chosen as the Region 13 Star Teacher of the Month.

She was chosen from across the Region 13 Education Service Center, which encompasses over 100 Central Texas school districts.

Gilbreath, who has taught at LGISD for 12 years and is a Behavioral Intervention Social Skills Teacher, was presented with a trophy, balloons, flowers, other selected goodies and a scholarship to help pursue an advanced online degree through Abilene Christian University.

“I am still very shocked. I’m blown away,” she said looking around at the surprise crowd that included Region 13 officials (including Executive Director Rich Elsasser, who made the presentation), LGISD administration and fellow teachers and her husband, La Grange Police Chief David Gilbreath.

Gilbreath was nominated for the award by fellow teacher Taylor Jensen.

“Selfless, that describes her in a nutshell,” Jensen said of Gilbreath, who is just the third ever winner of this award. Educators from Dripping Springs and Austin ISD took home the first two monthly award from Region 13.

Here’s the full text of Jensen’s nomination letter about Gilbreath: How is the nominee making a positive impact in their school community?

Jaimie is teaching, modeling and guiding students with social, emotional and or behavior concerns on how to appropriately handle situations appropriately and to help shape all students into being the most successful individual. She works and has worked with children for many years within the educational realm as well as within our county as a youth counselor.

What sets this nominee apart from other school personnel?

Jaimie works in one of the most difficult areas on an elementary campus. She works in a self-contained behavior unit. On an average day, she can be found assisting children with academics, behaviorally, preventing/de-escalating violent behaviors or aggression, following specific behavior intervention plans, communicating with parents, and, most importantly, continuing to support and guide all of “her” children.

She is a true gift and asset to our district. Jaimie is continually looking for ways to learn and grow to support the diverse needs of her children. Jaimie approaches work each day on time and with positivity, no matter the occurrences on the previous day. She starts each day with a fresh mindset and clear slate for all students. She does not treat any child differently after having a “blow up” or a bad day. Being within the behavior unit can be an exhausting task. I, as well as so many others around her, have the utmost respect for this individual. She continues to amaze me daily with her strength and drive to help all children be the best they can be!