St. John Paul II Catholic School announced on February 12 that Betty Festa has been named the 2026 Texas Catholic Conference of Bishops (TCCB) Elementary Teacher of the Year, a prestigious honor recognizing outstanding Catholic school educators across Texas.

This award highlights teachers who show exceptional dedication to the spiritual and intellectual formation of their students while fully embracing the mission of Catholic education. “Festa’s recognition reflects her unwavering, faith-driven commitment and the high expectations she sets for her students, challenging them to grow academically, personally, and spiritually,” a spokesperson for the diocese said in the press release.

This statewide honor follows another major recognition. In August, Festa received the Sally Landram Excellence in Education Award from the Archdiocese of Galveston-Houston, presented annually to an educator who exemplifies strong Catholic faith, deep community commitment, and academic rigor. The Teacher of the Year award was first announced by TCCB during Catholic Schools Week. As part of the award, Festa will receive a commemorative trophy and a monetary honorarium.

“Earning recognition at both the city and state levels underscores the remarkable impact of her work,” the press release said.

Serving at St. John Paul II Catholic School since 1994, Festa has shaped generations of students in language and literature. A graduate of Nicholls State College in Thibodaux, Louisiana, with a Bachelor of Arts in Education, she is known for making complex concepts accessible and meaningful. Teaching in a Catholic school allows Festa to live out a greater mission - guiding students not only academically but spiritually.

“She not only teaches academic content but also equips students with essential life skills, always thinking ahead to prepare them for the future,” Principal Rebecca Bogard said.

St. John Paul II Catholic School, located at 1400 Parkway Plaza Drive in Houston near the intersection of State Highway 6 and Briar Forest Drive, is a four-time National Blue Ribbon School and holds STEM certification. Rooted in its Catholic mission, the school remains dedicated to providing exceptional education in a nurturing environment with tuition that is accessible to families.

For more information about StJPII, visit www.jp2.org.

About St. John Paul II Catholic School

Founded in 1986, St. John Paul II Catholic School (StJPII) serves students in Pre-Kindergarten through eighth grade, providing a Christ-centered education rooted in faith, excellence, and community.