Heather Atherton

Dedicated and passionate educator with 32 years of experience teaching kindergarten and first grade. Skilled in creating an engaging, nurturing environment that promotes emotional and academic growth. Adept at differentiating instruction, implementing classroom management strategies, and fostering meaningful relationships with students, parents, and colleagues. Committed to cultivating a love for learning and encouraging students to reach their fullest potential.

District Teacher of the Year
Canutillo Independent School District
2015

• Recognized as Teacher of the Year for the Canutillo Independent School District for outstanding performance in student achievement, classroom leadership, and community involvement.

Exemplary Teacher, Texas Teacher Incentive Allotment (TIA)
Texas Education Agency (TEA)
2022-2023

• Recognized as an Exemplary Teacher under the Texas Teacher Incentive Allotment (TIA) for exceptional instructional quality and significant contributions to student achievement.

Master Teacher, Texas Teacher Incentive Allotment (TIA)
Texas Education Agency (TEA)
2023 – 2028

• Awarded the prestigious Master Teacher designation through the Texas Teacher Incentive Allotment, recognizing outstanding performance in student achievement, instructional leadership, and professional development.

Team Member, Transcend Design
Jose Damian Elementary
August 2023 – Present

• Assisted in brainstorming, conceptualizing, and executing design solutions that enhanced the learning experience.

New Teacher Mentor
Canutillo Independent School District
2020-2022

• Provided ongoing support and mentorship to newly hired teachers, guiding them through their first year of teaching and helping them navigate classroom management, lesson planning, and instructional strategies.

Curriculum Writer
Canutillo Independent School District
summer session in 2012, 2013, 2014, 2015, 2017

• Designed engaging and effective instructional materials, including lesson plans, assessments, and activities, to support diverse learning needs and foster student achievement.

District Benefits Committee

2022-current

• Collaborated with district leadership and staff to review, analyze, and recommend benefits programs for employees, ensuring alignment with district goals and employee needs.

Campus Improvement Committee Member
Jose Damian Elementary

12+ years ( term-on and off various school years)

• Collaborate with faculty, student leaders, families and community members to identify and address campus needs and areas for improvement.

District Facilities Master Planning Committee Member
Canutillo Independent School District

2017-2018

• Collaborated with district leaders, architects, and community stakeholders to assess current and future facility needs across the district.

Safety Crisis Team Member
Jose Damian Elementary 2022-2024

• Collaborated with a team of educators, administrators, and local authorities to develop and implement comprehensive school safety protocols and crisis response plans.

Design Team Member, Bond Money Allocation
Jose Damian Elementary School | 2024 – 2025

• Collaborated with district administrators, architects, financial officers , families and community stakeholders to allocate bond funds for the renovation and expansion of Jose Damian Elementary, focusing on facility upgrades, classroom improvements, and student safety.

Member, Association of Texas Educators (ATPE)
1993 – Present

• Actively engaged in professional development opportunities, including workshops, conferences, and seminars related to education policy, teaching strategies, and student advocacy.
• Stay informed on the latest trends in education, legislative updates, and resources for teachers in Texas.
• Participate in advocacy efforts to promote the interests and rights of Texas educators, students, and educational institutions.

Hiring Committee Member

• Participated in multiple hiring committees to select qualified administrators and teachers, contributing to candidate evaluation, interviewing, and decision-making processes for Jose Damian Elementary.