Lindsey Ynostrosa of Edgewood ISD was surprised with the KENS 5 EXCEL Award and a $2,000 check from Credit Human.
SAN ANTONIO — A teacher who once walked the halls of Edgewood ISD is now shaping the next generation of students in the very same district—and her dedication is earning her well-deserved recognition.
Lindsey Ynostrosa, a math and science teacher as well as a girls’ basketball coach at Henry B. Gonzalez Elementary School, was surprised with the KENS 5 Excel Award for her commitment to her students and her community. Along with the honor, Ynostrosa received a $2,000 check from Credit Human to support her continued work in the classroom.
What started as a routine school day quickly turned into a celebration. Ynostrosa believed district leaders were visiting her classroom to take photos. Instead, she was greeted with the award and applause from colleagues and students.
Now in her seventh year of teaching, Ynostrosa comes from a family of educators and says education has always been part of her story. Teaching in Edgewood ISD has made her journey feel full circle, as she is also a proud graduate of the district.
“I just knew I had to give back to my community,” EXCEL Award Winner Lindsey Ynostrosa said. “Growing up in the area, we have different challenges that we face, and our kids have a lot on their plate. And so if I can give back to what brought me up?”
She says choosing where to teach was never a difficult decision.
“When I decided I was going to go into teaching, I did not look into any of the districts because I knew where I wanted to be,” she said. “And that’s here at home.”
Students say Ynostrosa’s impact goes far beyond academics. Her classroom is a place where learning is exciting and students feel supported.
“She’s one of my favorite teachers,” said student Dalilla Craii. “Because she’s brave and she’s confident, and she keeps us safe, and she’s fun. We do really fun science experiments, and she helps us get through our tough times.”
Ynostrosa also credited her support staff, whom she calls her familia, for helping her along the way.
When asked how she plans to use the $2,000 award from Credit Human, Ynostrosa said she intends to invest it wisely and make sure it goes a long way for her students.
The KENS 5 Excel Award recognizes educators across South Texas who go above and beyond to make a difference. For Ynostrosa, that difference starts right at home.