Tomball ISD’s Julia Flores Named Region 4 Teacher of the Year Finalist

TOMBALL - Tomball ISD’s 2024-2025 Elementary Teacher of the Year Julia Flores has been named a Region 4 Teacher of the Year finalist, recently announced by Region 4.

Flores has dedicated 17 years to education in Tomball ISD, and currently serves students at Canyon Pointe Elementary as a Bilingual Reading Specialist.

As Tomball ISD’s Elementary Teacher of the Year, Flores is one of just six educators across Region 4 selected as a finalist for the Region’s top honor. 

Flores will be recognized, and a Region Teacher of the Year will be honored, at the Region 4 Teacher of the Year luncheon in August.

Julia Flores: Why education? What makes your job so special?
“I believe education chose me. While it was never part of my original plan, every step in my journey pointed me toward the classroom. I became a teacher to give back what was given to me: encouragement, support, and the belief that every child can succeed regardless of their background or circumstances.

“Teaching is more than a job...it’s a calling. What makes it so special is the ability to shape not just minds but hearts. Every day, I can build relationships, spark curiosity, and help students believe in themselves. It’s a privilege to be part of their journey.”

Julia Flores: Why Tomball ISD?
“Tomball is more than just the place I work. It’s a community I’m proud to be a part of. From the moment I arrived, I felt welcomed and supported. Tomball values diversity, fosters innovation, and deeply cares about its students and educators. Here, I’ve had the chance to grow, to serve, and to make a difference in the lives of students who remind me of why I chose this profession in the first place.” 

Julia Flores: What does it mean to be named Elementary Teacher of the Year?
“Being named Elementary Teacher of the Year is an incredible honor. It’s a celebration of resilience, of every student I’ve taught, and of every colleague who has inspired me. This recognition means I get to represent the voices of so many who, like me, never imagined themselves in this role but found purpose and passion in serving others. It’s a reminder that through hard work, love, and dedication, we can truly change lives.”

CPES Principal Karina Avila on Julia Flores…
“At Canyon Pointe Elementary, we are absolutely thrilled that Mrs. Flores has been named Elementary Teacher of the Year! Her passion for teaching, unwavering commitment to her students, and ability to create a warm, engaging classroom environment make her truly exceptional. Mrs. Flores brings energy, creativity, and heart to everything she does—and our school is better because of her.

“What truly sets Mrs. Flores apart is her dedication to meeting students where they are. She sees each child as an individual and provides the support, encouragement, and instruction they need to grow, no matter the academic challenge. Her belief in every student’s potential is evident in her daily work, and the impact she makes is both powerful and lasting.”

ABOUT TOMBALL ISD
Tomball ISD educates students to become responsible, productive citizens by providing innovative, individually rigorous, and personally valuable educational experiences. Founded in 1908, Tomball ISD now encompasses 83 square miles in northwest Harris County and southwest Montgomery County, and is located approximately 30 miles from downtown Houston. The district currently educates over 23,000 students across 24 campuses. West Intermediate will open in August 2025 as the District’s 25th campus.