Three Texas Educators to Receive Scholarships from Teachers of Tomorrow

HOUSTON, TX -- Teachers of Tomorrow (ToT), the nation’s leading Educator Preparation Program (EPP), announced today the winners for its annual New Teacher Scholarship. Three aspiring teachers in Texas, with unique and inspiring backgrounds, were among the winners.

“All of us have been positively impacted by caring, talented teachers who made a genuine difference in our lives,” said Dr. Heath Morrison, ToT CEO. “At Teachers of Tomorrow, we strive to encourage and support teaching candidates who will enrich classrooms with their real-world experiences and perspectives. High-quality teachers create an environment where students thrive.”

Proudly celebrating its 20th Anniversary this year, ToT has certified over 85,000 teachers nationwide. The 20 aspiring teachers will be awarded up to $6,000 in scholarships to cover the entire cost of ToT’s program fee.

While Texas has made gains in recent years on the Nation’s Report Card, the state continues to struggle with a significant teacher shortage. ToT is working to fill teacher vacancies and ensure every student has a high-quality teacher in their classroom.

The 2025 New Teacher Scholarship winners in Texas are:

Payton Newkirk | Spring
“The most rewarding part of this work is the impact I get to make—not just in the classroom, but in life. Whether it’s a student figuring out a concept or a player gaining confidence, those moments matter. Of course, the job isn’t without its challenges. One of the biggest I’ve faced is learning how to best serve a wide range of students, each with different needs, goals, and backgrounds. But that challenge is also what makes this work meaningful. It pushes me to be more thoughtful, more patient, and more intentional in everything I do.”

Willis Campos | Fort Worth
“For ten years, I worked in a special education classroom as a paraprofessional. I learned and adapted quickly to each child's needs while also working together with my lead teacher. My teacher not only taught me the skills I needed in the classroom but also taught me to have empathy, patience, and open-mindedness. Although a child has a diagnosis, it doesn't make them any different from a student without a diagnosis. At a different pace, I still taught my students to read, write, and how to vocalize their needs. I taught them they had a voice. I now know that I am capable of leading my own classroom and being the teacher that everyone sees in me.”

Rebekah Sarratos | San Antonio
“It takes passion, inspiration and determination to help develop growth in our young generation. I know I'm more than capable.”

A full list of winners can be viewed at www.teachersoftomorrow.org/new_teacher_scholarship.

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