TEMPLE, Texas (KWTX) - A Temple High School career and technical education teacher was surprised Monday morning with the 2027 Region 12 Secondary Teacher of the Year Award during the Temple Independent School District's annual back-to-school convocation ceremony.

Jessica Cuellar, who has taught at Temple High School since 2023 and serves as a Career and Technical Education Lead Teacher, was selected from educators representing 77 school districts across Region 12's 12-county area.

Dr. Kenny Berry, executive director of the Education Service Center Region 12, presented the surprise award before district educators and staff at the Frank W. Mayborn Civic & Convention Center.