(KGNS) - A veteran educator who has spent more than three decades in the classroom received a special surprise Wednesday, Sept. 23, when she was named Teacher of the Month.

Mindy Caso presented the honor to Ana Brewster, a first-grade teacher at Ligarde Elementary School, where she has taught for more than 30 years.

A parent nominated Brewster for the award, crediting her patience and creativity in helping her daughter, who has autism, learn how to read.