TEMPLE, Texas — Temple High School teacher Julie Garza has been recognized as one of the top American History Teachers in the state of Texas by the Texas Society Daughters of the American Revolution (TSDAR). Garza was recently awarded with second place state-wide honors by the organization.
Garza teaches dual credit U.S. History at Temple High School and is in her 17th year of teaching that subject. She was first named Outstanding Teacher of American History by the Betty Martin Chapter of the National Society Daughters of the American Revolution (NSDAR) before advancing to the state-wide competition, where she placed second. According to the chapter, ‘nominated teachers must have an incisive knowledge of American History that they readily share with their students, foster a spirit of patriotism and exemplify a loyal support of our country and constitutional government. They must also demonstrate the ability to relate history to modern life events and be committed to their students’. Garza was nominated by a Temple High School administrator and she also submitted a portfolio supporting the criteria of the award. Garza described her teaching philosophy and experiences and included letters from a former student, a colleague and her own former American History teacher. Garza also highlighted her use of travel for students to help them learn outside the classroom. Those field trips have included travel to Austin, New York and a trip to a Presidential Inauguration in Washington D.C.
“I am very honored and thankful to receive this award,” Garza said. “I love my students; I love the content. I try my best to help my students better understand where our great nation came from, the causes and reasons why we’re where we are today, and how they can be positive citizens that contribute to the future of our country. Any kind of recognition for doing a good job is always a great thing.”
“In reading the information from Julie and the letters of recommendation, Julie exemplifies a heart for teaching,” said Julie Nix, Betty Martin Chapter historian. “She is dedicated to her students and not only values the curriculum taught, but also creates lasting memories to give her students lifelong experiences and encourages them to be good citizens.”
Garza is in her 23rd year overall at Temple High School. In addition to teaching U.S. History, she also teaches psychology and sociology and serves as the Social Studies Department Lead Teacher at THS. Garza has a bachelor’s degree in Social Studies and a master’s degree in History.
“Julie Garza is an outstanding teacher who is committed to the success of her students,” said Dr. Jason Mayo, Temple High School principal. “She is very deserving of this award.”
The TSDAR has over 200 chapters. Each chapter recognizes an Outstanding Teacher. Those nominations are then given to a committee of three judges who have been appointed by the TSDAR State Historian and approved by the State Regent. The NSDAR has been recognizing American History teachers since 1982.