February 16-20, 2026
Brave of the Week - Veronica Saygi - February 16-20
Nomination from Mrs. Jessica Miller, NeSmith Elementary volunteer and parent:
"While volunteering, I have observed Ms. Saygi multiple occasions, getting ready for the day and greeting students, interacting with others etc. - I couldn’t help but notice her presence as she was so happy and enthusiastic every single time! She is an incredibly enthusiastic teacher who demonstrates genuine care and love for each of her students.
Not only does she embody the qualities of an exceptional educator, but she is also deeply passionate about every student and person she encounters. Through her kindness and empathy, she truly shines and makes a lasting impact on everyone around her."
Don’t forget to nominate a Brave for next week's honors! We reveal our winner on the Community ISD Facebook page and here on our website every Thursday at 8 a.m.
Other Brags Submitted This Week
Jamey Helms
Nominator
Maygan Wall
Which Trait was this person exhibiting?
Passionate
Why are you nominating this person?
Mrs. Helms is the best counselor anyone could ask for. She is always ready to meet the needs of our students, staff, and families—no matter what those needs may be. If clothes are needed, she finds them. If food is needed, she makes sure it is provided. Whenever a need arises, she finds a way to meet it.
She also hosts a monthly “Coffee with the Counselor” for parents to ensure she is connecting with families and supporting the needs of our students and community. Her heart is bigger than Texas, and we are truly blessed to have her on our campus. She is truly a gem.
Isabella Gilmore
Nominator
La Toya Adams
Which Trait was this person exhibiting?
Passionate
Why are you nominating this person?
Mrs. Gilmore deserves this nomination because of the genuine passion and dedication she brings into the classroom every single day. She does not just teach curriculum she truly sees and nurtures each child’s potential.
She recently nominated my daughter, Charli, for the Gifted and Talented program, which speaks volumes about her attentiveness and commitment to recognizing students who may benefit from advanced learning opportunities. That nomination was not just a formality it showed that she pays close attention to her students’ strengths and growth.
Mrs. Gilmore consistently keeps me informed about Charli’s progress, communicates clearly and proactively, and creates an environment where students feel encouraged and supported. She represents the heart of what it means to be a Brave committed, thoughtful, and deeply invested in her students’ success.
Esther Hassen
Nominator
Maygan Wall
Which Trait was this person exhibiting?
Generous
Why are you nominating this person?
Ms. Hassen always goes out of her way to let people know she appreciates them. She has such a kind heart and is an excellent teacher. She makes sure parents are aware of what is happening on our campus so they can stay involved. We are lucky to have her.
Other Brags Submitted This Week
Mia Cedeno
Nominator
Katy Robinson
Which Trait was this person exhibiting?
Passionate
Why are you nominating this person?
I am so proud of Mia. She is a hard worked and a great leader for her peers.
Annie Heflin
Nominator
Tiffany Swain
Which Trait was this person exhibiting?
Generous
Why are you nominating this person?
I am nominating Annie Heflin for her generosity with both her time and expertise in supporting our campus following benchmark testing. Navigating and analyzing this volume of data requires intentional collaboration to develop a clear and effective path toward success on the STAAR assessment. Annie worked closely with our team to thoughtfully analyze the data and helped create a targeted, student-centered plan to ensure every learner receives the support they need to grow and succeed. We cannot thank her enough for her committment to CISD!
Isabella Rodriguez
Nominator
Katy Robinson
Which Trait was this person exhibiting?
Passionate
Why are you nominating this person?
Isabella is always working so hard! She has grown so much this year because of her hard work. I’m ready to see what she can do!
Other Brags Submitted This Week
Aly Ackley
Nominator
Mallory Cummings
Which Trait was this person exhibiting?
Passionate
Why are you nominating this person?
Aly has a true gift for connecting with her students. She builds strong, meaningful rapport with each of them and thoughtfully incorporates their interests into their learning. Her lessons and activities are always engaging, fun, and purposeful—creating opportunities for students to explore real-life concepts, make authentic connections, and express themselves in their own unique ways. Her classroom is a place where learning feels exciting and relevant.
Beyond her own responsibilities, Aly continually steps up to support our campus in impactful ways. From pulling math groups to help students grow, to sharing her tech knowledge and expertise with the team, she consistently goes above and beyond. She brings incredible wisdom to our campus and never hesitates to lend her time, ideas, or encouragement.
Aly truly makes me a better leader through her collaboration, insight, and selfless pursuit of supporting both students and staff. We are so fortunate to have her on our team!
Brooklynn Fletcher
Nominator
Kasie Fitzwater
Which Trait was this person exhibiting?
Generous
Why are you nominating this person?
Since the school year has started I have watched as Brooklynn goes out of her way to ensure other people around her are being taken care of. She is there to cheer up a sad friend, even if she doesn't know them or they're in an entirely different grade level. She has been outstanding and shown great generosity every morning at breakfast in the cafeteria.
Brooklynn is usually one of the last students to leave the cafeteria, and every day she walks around the room to pick up any trash others have left at their table. She does these things without being asked which shows her integrity and the pride she takes in being an Ellis Brave! Brooklynn is selfless, empathetic and generous. I am thankful for Brooklynn and her kind heart!
Michaela Varner
Nominator
Cassidy Keith
Which Trait was this person exhibiting?
Generous
Why are you nominating this person?
I am nominating this person because they bought me my own Kona ice when I asked.