Lori Tullos Barta Educator of the Year Award
Lori Tullos Barta (1971-2010) was a shining star of light, hope, and love for people with Down syndrome in Central Texas and their families. Through her tireless efforts Lori launched numerous Educational Programs that directly benefitted the lives of individuals with Down syndrome including the DSACT Learning Program, Back to School Tools, Parents and Schools in Partnership, Inclusion Solutions and the Educator’s Manual.
She was intently focused on DSACT’s mission of including people with Down syndrome in all aspects of our community and ensuring each individual realizes his or her potential. Her energy and legacy continue to be a driving force as DSACT works to provide Programs, Resources, and Services to individuals with Down syndrome, their families, professionals, and the community.
The Lori Tullos Barta Educator of the Year Award is typically presented to a deserving person or team to celebrate World Down Syndrome Day on March 21. With this award, DSACT offers members the opportunity to recognize the person or team that has had an undeniable impact on your child and provided support to you. Nominees are those educators who go beyond expectations and stand out above the crowd. After reading through all the nominations, DSACT’s committee selects a truly deserving person. All educators, including teachers, paraeducators, therapists, and principals can be nominated. You can also nominate teams if you prefer.
This award gives DSACT members the opportunity to say “thank you” to outstanding educators. DSACT notifies all nominees and their principals of your, and our, appreciation for their outstanding contributions to students. Let’s recognize those outstanding individuals.
2025 Lori Tullos Barta Educator of the Year
We are honored to recognize the recipients of the 2025 Lori Tullos Barta Outstanding Educator Award—an incredible team of educators from Rouse High School in Leander ISD, nominated by Rupali and Vishal Pande. This exceptional group has demonstrated unwavering commitment to fostering inclusion and supporting the success of all students. Please join us in celebrating Tommy Thompson, Sharon Schwab, Jordyn LaFevers, Daniel Lapaglia, Jessica Paxtor, Julie Ray, Nadia Shanaa, Josie Giarratano, Cherryll Price, Kristen Clifford, and Susan Rudick for their outstanding efforts to create an environment where every student—including those with Down syndrome—is seen, supported, and empowered to thrive. Their dedication exemplifies the spirit of this award, and we are deeply grateful for the positive impact they make each day.
Other 2025 Educator Award nominees were: Paige Wiess, Katie Darilek, and Victoria Gionvenco (Eanes ISD), Marie Obryan (Goodwater Montessori Charter School), Audrea Ross, Abigail Adams, Vanessa Rosillo-Simon, Ashley Grahm, Justine Bennett, Lisa Gianatasio, Richard Wascher, and Merissa Hayes (Rooster Springs Elementary), Tara Currywood, Sulen Rogers and Kristen DiPasquale (Tierra Rosa Elementary), Carolyn Holloway-Mays, Maria Guerra, Melissa Juarez, Sandra Sandoval, and Yauncee Dordy (Timmerman Elementary), William Kilpatrick (Westlake High School)
Now Accepting 2026 Nominations
Let’s celebrate the outstanding educators and teams that have made a remarkable impact on students with Down syndrome! The Lori Tullos Barta Educator of the Year Award offers DSACT members the chance to recognize the individuals or teams who have gone above and beyond in supporting your child and your family.
Who Can Be Nominated?
Nominees are those educators who exceed expectations and stand out in their dedication and contributions to the success and well-being of students with Down syndrome. Whether it’s a teacher, a support staff member, or an educational team, this award honors their exceptional commitment.
Why Nominate?
This award is an opportunity for DSACT members to say “thank you” to these extraordinary educators. DSACT will notify all nominees and their principals, sharing our collective appreciation for their outstanding work and dedication.
Key Dates:
- Nominations Close: Friday, February 27th
- Award Presentation: The 2026 Lori Tullos Barta Educator of the Year Award will be presented on or around World Down Syndrome Day, March 21.
Let’s recognize and honor those outstanding individuals who have made a lasting difference in the lives of students with Down syndrome. Submit your nomination today!