This year, New Caney ISD is shining a light on educators who make a lasting impact on our students and district through Gold Star, a new teacher recognition initiative sponsored by Community Resource Credit Union. Throughout the 2026–2027 school year, one teacher from each NCISD campus will be recognized for their outstanding work.
This month, we are highlighting Sadie Gonzalez, a fourth-grade dual language teacher at Sorters Mill Elementary (SME), who is being recognized for the positivity and encouragement she brings to her classroom and campus.
“Sadie is the kind of teacher every student hopes to have,” said SME Principal Kindy Tomhave. “Her energy is contagious, and she turns math into an experience students can enjoy, even when the learning is challenging and the pace is fast. She breaks concepts down in ways that help all students feel successful while still keeping the rigor high. Just as importantly, Sadie takes care of the whole child. Her classroom is filled with chants, cheers, encouragement, and classmates celebrating one another, creating a safe place where students feel confident taking risks and learning. She is the full package, and we are so blessed to have her at SME. Sadie is always smiling, always encouraging, and always shining her light!”
Although this is Ms. Gonzalez’s fifth year teaching, her connection to New Caney ISD runs much deeper. A former NCISD student herself, she has spent her entire teaching career at Sorters Mill Elementary. Throughout her career, she has found that building relationships with her students and watching them build confidence is one of the most rewarding parts of teaching.
“I began teaching because I’ve always loved helping others learn, grow, and believe in themselves,” Ms. Gonzalez said. “I wanted to create a classroom where students feel supported, valued, and encouraged to be their best, and where kindness is just as important as learning.”
For Ms. Gonzalez, it is especially rewarding to be recognized by Gold Star in the district that shaped her both as both a student and teacher.
“I feel incredibly honored, humbled, and grateful to be recognized by Gold Star. I am especially grateful to be part of New Caney ISD, a district that has been a part of my journey from the beginning. I went to school here, began my teaching journey here as a student teacher, and now have the privilege of teaching in the same community. As a student teacher, Mrs. Tomhave believed in me from the very beginning. I will always be thankful that she saw something in me and gave me the opportunity to grow into the teacher I am today. I am wholeheartedly blessed to be part of the SME family.”
The Gold Star teacher recognition initiative is proudly sponsored by Community Resource Credit Union, whose support helps NCISD celebrate the educators who make a difference in the lives of our students each day.
Thank you to Community Resource Credit Union for investing in our teachers and helping us shine a light on their dedication to NCISD!