Plano ISD proudly celebrated three extraordinary educators during the May 6 Board of Trustees meeting as recipients of the 2025 Texas Instruments Foundation Innovations in STEM Teaching Award. Now in its 19th year, this prestigious recognition honors secondary teachers who demonstrate exceptional innovation and impact in the fields of science, technology, engineering and math (STEM).

Thanks to the generous support of the Texas Instruments Foundation, each honoree receives a $10,000 award—split evenly between a personal stipend and a campus grant for technology or professional development. This initiative underscores TI’s deep commitment to advancing education, especially in STEM, by investing in the educators who shape tomorrow’s problem-solvers.

“We are so grateful to the Texas Instruments Foundation and to the Plano ISD Education Foundation for making these awards possible,” said Lisa Wilson, Executive Director for Communications and Community Engagement. “There’s no more powerful way to impact students than by supporting the dedicated teachers who inspire them every day.”

Representing Texas Instruments at the ceremony was Harshal Chhaya, systems engineer and Plano ISD Education Foundation Board member, who shared reflections on the importance of fostering innovation in classrooms.

This year’s program began with 23 outstanding teacher nominees. After a thorough review of their applications and classroom visits to the top six finalists, three educators were selected as 2025 honorees:

Stephanie Hirsch accepting her award at the May 6 board meeting

Stephanie Hirsch – Math Teacher, Williams High School

Praised by her principal as “one of the most effective, impactful and hard-working teachers,” Stephanie Hirsch is known for her engaging instruction, creative classroom strategies and her leadership among colleagues. Her commitment to excellence is evident not only in student outcomes, but in how she mentors and inspires fellow teachers to grow their practice. Her impact resonates through the Williams High School math team and beyond.

Eunice Santoso Pribadi accepting her award at the May 6 board meeting

Eunice Santoso – Science Teacher, Frankford Middle School

Eunice Santoso brings her remarkable life journey into the classroom, transforming obstacles into inspiration. As an ESL science teacher, she differentiates instruction across three grade levels for students newly arrived in the United States. Through hands-on learning, compassion and a deep understanding of her students’ needs, she builds bridges between science concepts and students’ lived experiences. Her classroom is a place of empowerment, trust and transformation.

Photo portrait of Gerri Goodspeed from Teacher of the Year 2022

Gerri Goodspeed – Family and Consumer Science Teacher, Wilson Middle School

Although she was unable to attend the meeting due to International Baccalaureate training, Gerri Goodspeed’s presence was deeply felt. She brings purpose and heart to STEM instruction through her Family and Consumer Science classes, integrating critical thinking, math and science into real-world experiences. From sewing to culinary design, her students gain practical STEM skills and life lessons. Her classroom fosters confidence and opens doors to future careers—and brighter futures.

2025 TI Innovations in STEM Teaching Honorees at the May 6 board meeting

In addition to the honorees, three outstanding finalists were also recognized:

• Gwen Thomas, Academy High School

• Chris Caveness, Plano Senior High School

• Julia Drake, Plano West Senior High School

Each finalist received a gift of appreciation and applause for their contributions to STEM education in Plano ISD.

“Tonight, we recognize not just individual excellence, but the collective spirit of innovation that defines our educators,” said Karen Buechman, Director of Career and Technical Education. “These teachers exemplify what it means to ‘Win for Kids’—the heart of our work in Plano ISD.”