Our Hope: Convocation Inspires, Celebrates Educators Looking Forward to New School Year

Post published:August 8, 2025
Reading time:2 mins read

On Friday, Aug. 8, Cityscape teachers, staff, and administrators from all three campuses and central offices gathered in the Buckner Preparatory Auditorium to celebrate the successes of the last school year and articulate their hopes for 2025-26.

Emceed by Dr. Billy Ferrell, Director of Climate, Culture & Student Services, the event featured a keynote address from Dr. Kristen Guillory, a renowned international speaker, author, and leadership coach. Known for her dynamic presentations that blend humor, storytelling, and dance, Guillory has delivered more than 1,500 talks and trainings to over 500,000 people worldwide.

The convocation also recognized outstanding educators through the Teacher Incentive Allotment (TIA) program. Honorees included:

Recognized Teachers: Salvador Acevedo, Jose Ramayo
Exemplary Teachers: Diana Cabra, Belkys Camps, Hermes Camps, Carlos Cupido Sanchez, Margarita Esquivel, Alva Franco Gamez, Naima Howard, Lindsey Miles, Kimberly Novoa, Juan Ornelas, Angel Rodriguez-Colon, Edgardo Rosado, Denise Zaragoza
Master Teachers: Sol Acuna, Gabriel Camarillo Villarreal, Samantha Childs, Maria Garcia

Teachers and staff celebrating five and 10 years of service to Cityscape Schools were honored for their dedication to the district’s mission. Five-year honorees included Naima Howard, Isabel Mendoza, Kimberly Novoa, Jesus Roa Ponte, Maria Prieto, and Laurie States. Ten-year honorees were Laquetta Chism, Carlos Cupido Sanchez, and Luisa Lopez.

Dr. Guillory also moderated a panel discussion featuring two alumni of Cityscape Schools, La’Mauria Taylor and Juan Diego Cortez. They were joined by long-serving leaders including School Board President James Reed, Assistant Principal Ms. Austin, and teacher Angel Rodriguez-Colon.

As the event concluded, Co-Founder and CEO Leonard Brannon offered closing words, encouraging staff to carry the spirit of celebration and inspiration into the new school year.