Math Impact Award Honors Outstanding Educators

The Big Picture: The Math Impact Award, sponsored by the Prudential Risk Management Academy at UTEP’s Hunt College of Business, recognized four exceptional high school math teachers for their dedication to student success.

The awards were presented at El Paso High School during the Student Math and Science Awards Ceremony on March 1.

Why It Matters: High school math teachers play a critical role in preparing students for careers in STEM, equipping them with problem-solving skills essential for higher education and beyond. This award highlights educators who not only excel in the classroom but also foster mentorship, innovation, and engagement in mathematics outside traditional instruction. 

Who Was There: The event brought together educators, students, and academic leaders to celebrate excellence in mathematics education.

Honorees included: 

• First Place:  Juan Villareal (Transmountain Early College High School) 

• Led students to national math competition victories and expanded advanced math opportunities. 

• Second Place: Jose Ricardo Varela (Austin High School)  

• Coached award-winning UIL Mathletes teams and integrated real-world data analysis into lessons. 

• Third Place (Tie): Rudy Medina (Canutillo High School) 

• Mentored students and educators, leading Canutillo’s math team to four state championships. 

• Third Place (Tie): Blanca Barron (Bowie High School)  

• Dedicated mentor fostering both student success and professional growth among fellow educators. 

Between the Lines: While awards often recognize student achievements, this initiative shifts the focus to educators who shape those successes. By celebrating teachers, the Math Impact Award reinforces the idea that strong mentorship and innovative instruction are key drivers of academic excellence. 

What’s Next: The Prudential Risk Management Academy plans to continue supporting initiatives that elevate mathematics education and provide resources for educators.