(BASTROP, TX) - Bastrop ISD is proud to announce that Elizabeth Eagan, our dedicated Special Education teacher for students with visual impairments, has been named the Region 13 Elementary Teacher of the Year. She was selected for this honor at the Region 13 recognition luncheon held on July 31 in Georgetown, Texas.

Upon receiving the award, Eagan shared an emotional speech with the fellow educators in the room.

“Receiving the teacher of the year award is a great honor and privilege,” she said. “This teacher of the year award symbolizes that those of us who work in special education are seen and appreciated.” 

Eagan, who has been with Bastrop ISD since 2014, has devoted 33 years to teaching, with 24 of those years specializing in education for students with visual impairments. Her commitment to her students and her innovative teaching methods have significantly impacted the lives of many students in the district.

Bastrop ISD Director of Special Programs and Services, Derek Eberly, says that Eagan is one of the most dedicated educators that he’s experienced in his 23 years of education. 

“Her dedication is just unrivaled,” said Eberly. “The one thing you don’t want to do is tell Liz that one of her students can’t do something.”

Eagan will now be considered for Texas Teacher of the Year, representing not only Bastrop ISD, but also Region 13. A total of 40 Regional Teachers of the Year will be considered for the state level recognition, in a selection process facilitated by TASA. Judges will meet in August to narrow the pool of 40 Regional Teachers of the Year to six finalists — three elementary and three secondary.