Houston, TX — September 22, 2025 — YES Prep Public Schools proudly announces that three of its outstanding educators have been named recipients of the 2025 Kinder Excellence in Teaching Awards (KETA), a prestigious recognition established in 2001 by the Kinder Foundation to celebrate exceptional teaching across Houston. 

This year, 12 teachers in total were recognized across Houston-area networks, including Catholic Schools in the Archdiocese of Galveston-Houston, KIPP Texas Public Schools – Houston, Teach For America Houston in partnership with Aldine ISD and Houston ISD, and YES Prep Public Schools. 

Representing YES Prep, the following educators were honored: 

Diego Hernandez, YES Prep Northline Secondary 

Ginny Herrera, YES Prep Southeast Elementary 

Amber Dowson, YES Prep North Central Elementary 

Michelle Mata, YES Prep Gulfton Secondary 

Each awardee receives a $30,000 prize, reflecting not only their dedication to academic excellence but also their lasting impact on the lives of their students and school communities. 

“The Kinder Excellence in Teaching Awards shine a light on what makes YES Prep teachers extraordinary, their passion, their perseverance, and their unwavering belief in every student’s potential,” said Mark DiBella, CEO of YES Prep Public Schools. “We are grateful to the Kinder Foundation for investing in educators who are shaping brighter futures for Houston.” 

The awardees were formally celebrated at the Kinder Excellence in Teaching Awards Dinner on September 20, 2025, alongside honorees from partner networks. 

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Media Contacts:

·       Kinder Foundation: Stephanie Parker, stephanie@elmorepr.com

·       YES Prep Public Schools: Misty Starks, ms08@yesprep.org

 

About YES Prep Public Schools 

YES Prep Public Schools is a tuition-free public charter school system serving over 20,000 students across Houston. With a 25-year track record of redefining what is possible in public education, YES Prep is nationally recognized for strong academic outcomes and college readiness. The network currently operates 24 campuses and will expand to 26 in 2025, welcoming over 22,000 students—the most in its history. From elementary through high school, YES Prep is committed to closing opportunity gaps and ensuring every student is prepared to succeed in college, career, and life. To learn more, visit yesprep.org.   

About Kinder Foundation 

Kinder Foundation, a family foundation established in 1997 by Rich and Nancy Kinder of Houston, Texas, provides transformational grants that impact urban green space, education, and quality of life. More at www.kinderfoundation.org.