CTE Teacher Academy
|
Date: June 26, 2025
Time: 9:00 a.m. - 3:00 p.m. Location: Gilmer High School Workshop: #321950
|
 |
🚀🔥 CTE TEACHERS—GET READY TO IGNITE EXCELLENCE! 🔥🚀
Join us for the CTE Teacher Academy at Gilmer High School this summer! 🌞🎓 This is YOUR chance to connect, collaborate, and grow with fellow CTE educators from across Region 7!
Workshop Agenda:
-
9:00 AM - 9:30 AM: Whole-group session led by Region 7 ESC.
-
9:30 AM - 10:30 AM: Tour of Gilmer High School CTE.
-
10:30 AM - 12:30 PM: Explore industry, business, and college exhibits in the gym.
-
12:30 PM - 3:00 PM: Breakout sessions led by master teachers.
What to Expect:
✅ Engage in dynamic, whole-group sessions
✅ Explore breakout sessions led by master teachers in your program of study
✅ Exchange ideas, strategies, and innovative practices
✅ Elevate your CTE instruction with fresh inspiration!
✅ Explore breakout sessions led by master teachers in your program of study
✅ Exchange ideas, strategies, and innovative practices
✅ Elevate your CTE instruction with fresh inspiration!
🌟 BONUS: Enjoy a FREE lunch sponsored by iCEV! 🌟 Because great learning deserves great food! 🍽️😋
📢 Hey Counselors! Join us for a special session to dive into all things Counseling and CTE! 🎉
🔥 Early Registration Update: Right now, Gilmer 🏈, Big Sandy 🐾, and West Rusk ⚔️ are leading the pack! 🏆 Who’s next? Get your team signed up and represent your district!
💼🏫 PLUS! Business, Industry, and Colleges will be there to share insights, opportunities, and connections to help bring real-world relevance to your CTE classroom! Don't miss the chance to build valuable partnerships!
Ronnie Babcock - Eustace High School, Master Teacher
With 16 years of classroom experience and over two decades in the engineering industry, Ronnie Babcock brings a unique blend of real-world expertise and innovative instruction to his engineering classes at Eustace High School. His teaching bridges the gap between theory and practice, offering students authentic, hands-on learning experiences that spark curiosity and build career-ready skills.
Ronnie holds a B.A. in Industrial Studies and a Master’s in Educational Technology Leadership. He is also certified through NCTI in Fiber and Communications Engineering. As a contributor to the TEKS review committee, he played a key role in drafting the new Civil Engineering standards and revising two existing engineering courses—experience that deepened his understanding of curriculum development and its impact on student learning.
A guiding quote for Ronnie comes from J.R.R. Tolkien: “All that is gold does not glitter, Not all those who wander are lost; The old that is strong does not wither, Deep roots are not reached by the frost.”
Outside the classroom, Ronnie enjoys woodworking, metalworking, tractor restoration, fly fishing, golfing, and cooking on his Blackstone griddle. He’s currently training for a through-hike of the Appalachian Trail and recently celebrated becoming a first-time grandfather to Nora Marie Babcock.
Presentation - Ignite the Spark: Real-World Engineering in the Classroom
Kimberly Breashears - Henderson High School, Master Teacher
With 16 years of experience in education—10 years in elementary and the last 6 in Health Science—Kimberly Breashears brings a well-rounded and compassionate perspective to the classroom. At Henderson High School, she teaches Health Science Theory to 10th graders, dual credit Medical Terminology and Introduction to A&P, as well as Practicum II (Patient Care Technician).
Kimberly holds an Associate's degree in Medical Laboratory Technology, a Bachelor’s in Interdisciplinary Studies, and a Master’s in Educational Leadership. Her diverse background allows her to bridge the gap between clinical experience and effective classroom instruction.
Recognizing the challenges CTE teachers face—especially those transitioning directly from the field—Kimberly is passionate about creating a space where educators feel supported and empowered.
Her personal motto: “Every day is a gift. That is why it’s called the present.”
Presentation - Empowering Health Science Educators: Collaboration, Creativity and Classroom Wins
Jackie brings 13 years of teaching experience to the classroom, currently specializing in the Plant Science Program of Study with a focus on Floral Design at Gilmer High School. She holds a degree in Agricultural Services and Development, and has completed advanced training in Basics of Propagation and Beyond N-P-K at Texas A & M University.
Fun Fact: “You know you’re a plant person when you talk to your plants more than people - and they seem to listen better.”
Grow to Show: Propagation for Profit in Floral Design
Madison Dunn is a dedicated agricultural science educator with six years of teaching experience at Rusk High School. She currently leads instruction in 8th Grade Principles of Agriculture and a range of Animal Science courses for grades 9-12. Madison’s passion for agriculture is reflected in her commitment to helping students understand the many career opportunities available within the field.
Madison holds a B.S. in Interdisciplinary Agriculture, an M.Ed. in Curriculum and Instruction, and a Certificate in Adult Education. She is certified in Agriculture, Food, and Natural Resources for grades 6–12, with a focus on preparing students for real-world success by integrating hands-on experiences and industry-relevant curriculum.
Outside of teaching, Madison enjoys completing jigsaw puzzles, traveling with her friends and family, and capturing beautiful landscape photography.
Presentation - Advancing Animal Science Education: Collaboration, Curriculum & Career Readiness
Heather Hill - Nacogdoches High School, Master Teacher
Follow her journey: @central_welding
With over 11 years of teaching experience, Heather Hill brings a wealth of knowledge and passion to the world of welding education. Currently teaching Welding to students in grades 9–12 at Nacogdoches High School, Heather holds multiple welding certifications, including AWS D1.1, D9.1, ASME IX, and is a Certified Level 2R Visual Welding Inspector in accordance with ASNT-TC-1A.
Known for her hands-on approach and practical wisdom, Heather lives by the motto: "I won't let you fall on your face to fail, but I will certainly let you fall on your face to figure it out!"
When she's not in the shop or classroom, Heather enjoys baking, cooking, and maintaining a thriving garden. Her enthusiasm for welding education extends far beyond the fundamentals—she’s committed to shaping the next generation of skilled trades professionals.
Presentation - Setting Up a Program for Success
Garrett Jones - Whitehouse High School, Master Teacher
Connect with Garrett’s classroom: WildcatCS on Facebook
With 16 years of teaching experience and a focus on high school computer science, Garrett Jones is passionate about preparing students for the ever-evolving world of technology. As a seasoned Region 7 Master Teacher, he brings both expertise and enthusiasm to his classroom and professional development sessions.
Garrett’s philosophy is simple yet powerful: "Information technology is not just about computers. It's about unlocking human potential through innovation, creativity, and connection."
Presentation - Teaching IT with Purpose: Innovation, Creativity, Connection
Rhonda Norman Jones - Jacksonville High School, Master Teacher
With 24 years of teaching experience, Rhonda Norman-Jones brings both expertise and energy to the world of business education. At Jacksonville High School, she teaches BIM I & II, Accounting I, and Principles of Business, Marketing, and Finance to students in grades 9–12. Rhonda holds a BBA in Business and a Master’s in Educational Technology.
Known for her warm personality and people-first mindset, Rhonda lives by the philosophy: “I never meet a stranger—I love people!”
"If you find a job you love, you will never have to work a day in your life" Mark Twain
Beyond the classroom, Rhonda serves as Pastor of the Church of the Living God, PGT, in Tyler, Texas. Her passion for teaching, mentoring, and leading extends into every part of her life and work.
Presentation - Business Education That Delivers: Tools for Certification and Engagement
Amy Langley McGuire - Palestine High School, Master Teacher
With over 21 years in education and six years dedicated to the Education and Training program of study, Amy Langley McGuire is a passionate advocate for developing future educators. At Palestine High School, she leads the Education and Training pathway, equipping high school students with the knowledge, skills, and inspiration to pursue careers in teaching.
Amy holds a Master’s degree in Instructional Leadership and has served as a Region 7 Master Teacher and presenter since 2021. She is deeply committed to collaboration, believing in the power of shared experience to strengthen instructional practices and build lasting professional networks.
Known for her student-centered mindset and enthusiasm, Amy is guided by quotes that reflect her teaching philosophy:
- “We are what we repeatedly do.”
- “Be kind.”
- “You can’t start the next chapter of your life if you keep rereading the last one.”
When she’s not in the classroom, Amy enjoys being outdoors, walking, and spending time with family and friends. She’s excited to continue inspiring the next generation of teachers and looks forward to a meaningful and impactful 2025–26 school year.
Empowering Future Educators: Building Strong Foundations in the Education and Training Pathway
Neda Morrow - Lindale High School, Master Teacher
With 29 years of teaching experience, Neda currently brings creativity and real-world skills to life through her classes in Audio/ Video Film, Graphic Design and Print Shop at Lindale ISD. She holds a Master’s in English from Sam Houston State University and has spent her career igniting student passion through hands-on learning.
“I believe students learn best when they’re fully engaged - there’s nothing quite like watching them run around with cameras, fusing creativity with practical skills. That’s when the magic happens.”
Known for her bold personality, quick wit, and self-declared diva status, Neda isn’t afraid to speak her mind or stand out. Her principal calls her “Queenie”, a title she proudly owns. Off-campus, she’s a self-proclaimed Star Trek nerd who thrives on technology, puzzles, and creative problem-solving.
Over her distinguished career, Neda has coached 15 state champion teams across UIL Film, UIL Journalism, and Academic Decathlon. She was recognized as the 2023 Edith Fox Journalism Educator of the Year and has earned numerous regional and district teaching honors.
Lights, Camera, Learn: Teaching Audio/ Video Production with Purpose
Chef Casey Treat - Whitehouse High School, Master Teacher
Chef Casey Treat brings a unique blend of culinary expertise and educational excellence to his role as Culinary Arts instructor at Whitehouse High School. With six years of teaching experience and a strong culinary background, Chef Treat currently leads students through Introduction to Culinary Arts, Culinary Arts, and Practicum in Culinary Arts.
He holds an Associate of Applied Science Degree in Le Cordon Bleu Culinary Arts and a Diploma in Culinary Arts from Le Cordon Bleu. He also earned an Associate of Arts in Teaching Elementary Education and a Bachelor of Science in Interdisciplinary Studies. He holds teaching certifications in Mathematics, grades 4–8 and Hospitality, Nutrition and Food Science, grades 8-12, in addition to the following industry certifications: ServSafe Food Production Manager, Certified ServSafe Instructor and Registered ServSafe Examination Proctor.
Chef Treat’s innovative approach to culinary education has earned him multiple accolades, including:
- WISD Teacher of the Year (2024–2025)
- Education Foundation Innovator of the Year (2024–2025)
- FCCLA National Winner & Qualifier
- TXHSBBQ National Qualifier
Chef Treat is passionate about transforming the kitchen into a powerful learning environment where students gain real-life skills, confidence, and creativity.
From the Kitchen to the Classroom
Stacie White - Pine Tree Junior High School, Master Teacher
Connect with Stacie: @amazingmrswhite
With 20 years of teaching experience, Stacie White is a passionate advocate for early career exploration. At Pine Tree Junior High, she teaches Career Explorations, a course designed to help students build confidence, character, and gain clarity about their futures.. Stacie holds a Master’s in Education and is known for her commitment to equipping students with the tools they need to succeed - both in the classroom and beyond.
Presentation - Project Success & Career Connections: Explore Your Options for Junior High Career Explorations
QUESTIONS? CONTACT CONNY GARCIA OR A MEMBER OF OUR CTE TEAM!
