Coach Mark Salazar of Somerset ISD was surprised with the KENS 5 EXCEL Award and a $2,000 check from Credit Human.
SAN ANTONIO — SAN ANTONIO- What started as a school gathering to honor a student-athlete quickly turned into an emotional surprise for a Somerset High School teacher and coach.
Students and staff erupted in cheers when, Mark Salazar, was named the latest KENS 5 EXCEL Award recipient, recognizing his dedication in the classroom and on the field. Along with the honor, Salazar received a $2,000 check from Credit Human, a KENS 5 community partner.
Salazar, visibly moved by the surprise, was surrounded by students, colleagues, and family members as his name was announced.
For the past 10 years, Salazar has worked as both a teacher and coach at Somerset ISD, inspiring history students as well as athletes on the football and softball fields. He credits his passion for coaching to his father, and says while coaching, a parent encouraged him to apply to Somerset ISD — a decision that shaped his career.
“I try to be the teacher and coach that I wish I had growing up,” EXCEL Award Winner, Mark Salazar said. “I try to not only emulate that, but I try to go above and beyond.”
Salazar says watching students succeed is what keeps him motivated.
“Seeing my kids succeed, seeing them grow, seeing the lights go off in their head — that’s a feeling I can’t explain,” he said. “Being in a position to serve the community is a purpose. I think God’s called me to.”
Students say Salazar’s enthusiasm makes a lasting impact.
“I love the way he’s always hyped up and always in a good mood,” said sophomore, Kourtney Rios. “He wants us to succeed just as much as our parents do — and he’s loud about it.”
As part of the EXCEL Award, Salazar received a $2,000 check from Credit Human. He says he plans to use the money to support his daughter.
The KENS 5 EXCEL Award highlights educators across South Texas who go above and beyond for their students — and for Somerset High School, the surprise was one they won’t soon forget.