Sandra Consilio

Sandra Wicker Consilio, who earned a bachelor's degree in interdisciplinary studies from UHV, was recognized by her peers as Teacher of the Year at Jane Long Elementary School in Freeport, and then selected over the winners at seven other elementary schools as Elementary School Teacher of the Year in the Brazosport Independent School District.

The former Victoria resident now lives in Lake Jackson and teaches fourth-grade science and social studies.

"My professors at UHV were personable and so helpful with preparing me to teach," Consilio said. "I was concerned about getting hands-on teaching experience when I took a summer science class, but they made sure we got field experience."

Consilio has taught at Jane Long since graduating. She resurrected the school's science fair in 2005 and is a member of her school district's science leadership team. She also was a 2007-2008 science teacher mentor with the Region 4 Science Collaborative, which provides opportunities for science teachers to share best teaching practices.

"I just love teaching science, especially to fourth-graders," she said. "They're independent at that age, and they can discover things on their own."

Consilio's professors at UHV remember her as an outstanding student.

"She was a natural when it came to teaching," said Jane Fry, an associate professor in the UHV School of Education & Human Development. "She was an excellent student and was very involved with the Student Midcoast Reading Council."

John Stansell, dean of the same school, said he was happy that a UHV graduate received the two honors.

"Mrs. Consilio sets a fine example for our education students of what they can do in the future with a UHV degree and hard work," he said.