Ysleta ISD is proud to announce that Angelica Castaneda, a teacher at Loma Terrace Elementary School, is officially the district’s new 2026-27 Elementary School Teacher of the Year, and will compete in the upcoming regional Teacher of the Year contest with fellow educator Jacob Pineda, the district’s 2026-27 Secondary Teacher of the Year.
Originally named first runner-up in the district’s Teacher of the Year selection process, Castaneda now assumes the role of Ysleta ISD’s Elementary Teacher of the Year role following the recent announcement that former winner Arturo Cruz is transitioning to a new professional opportunity outside of Ysleta ISD.
Castaneda exemplifies dedication, professionalism, and a strong commitment to student success. Her passion for teaching and ability to positively impact students and families make her an exceptional representative. Ysleta ISD is excited for her to represent our district at the regional level, and looks forward to supporting both Castaneda and Pineda throughout the process.
In addition, P.E. aide Briana Berry from Scotsdale Elementary School is the 2026-27 Support Employee of the Year. More information on this year’s winners can be found below:
Angelica Castaneda, Loma Terrace Elementary School
A proud product of Ysleta ISD, Castaneda remembers being inspired to become an educator when she attended Ysleta Pre-K Center as a child, where the teaching assistant “really impacted how I learned – she made it fun, exciting, and engaging. I knew that one day, I wanted to be that teacher for other kids.” Castaneda, who holds a bachelor’s degree from St. Mary's University, is in her fifth year as a Specialized Support and Resource teacher. She sets the bar high and never stops cheering on her students. A lifelong dancer, she also choreographs quinceañeras and leads dance cardio classes.
Jacob Pineda, Ysleta High School
For Pineda, it all comes back to family, sports, and personal growth – and he pours all three into his work as a high school English teacher and coach. For a decade, he has coached cross country, track and field, and football while building a classroom rooted in real-world connection. “I believe in empowering our students to recognize their potential and take ownership of their futures," said Pineda, who holds a master’s degree in English from UTEP. His students would describe him as energetic, funny, and real – a teacher who regularly motivates them to try and better themselves.
Briana Berry, Scotsdale Elementary School
Berry brings a positive, nurturing spirit to her role as P.E. aide, where she helps students build healthy habits and a love for active play. In her six years with Ysleta ISD, she has gone above and beyond in her duties, sponsoring a volleyball club, leading campus competitions like the annual Superbowl Football Toss and Cadet Mile, and partnering with local businesses to support student athletics. Berry is known across campus as a great team player who regularly exceeds everyone’s expectations.