Region 7 recently recognized its Elementary and Secondary Teachers of the Year during a special celebration in Longview. We are incredibly proud that Diboll ISD was represented by two outstanding educators: Danalisa Walker of H.G. Temple Elementary and Erik Hedstrom of Diboll High School. 

Danalisa Walker teaches first grade, where she believes helping children feel connected is just as important as teaching academics. An Exemplary Teacher in the Teacher Incentive Allotment, she creates a classroom built on kindness, respect, and encouragement. Danalisa intentionally teaches social and emotional skills alongside reading and writing, helping students build confidence, solve problems, and support one another. By fostering a strong classroom community, she helps children develop the character, resilience, and self-belief needed for lifelong success. 

Erik Hedstorm has more than 30 years of experience teaching mathematics and now serves students at Diboll High School. Previously recognized as Teacher of the Year at MacArthur High School, he believes his greatest accomplishment is investing in the lives of students each day. Erik encourages critical thinking, perseverance, and a growth mindset by creating a classroom where questions are welcomed and mistakes become learning opportunities. His goal is for every student to leave with confidence, resilience, and a lifelong appreciation for learning. 

Congratulations to both of these exceptional teachers for the positive impact they make on our students every day. Thank you to Region 7 for hosting such a wonderful event and for celebrating the dedication and excellence of educators across East Texas!