Music that Describes Marisela
Marisela Lopez was nominated by Sylvia Castillo, a member of the community.
"Mrs. Marisela Lopez is highly praised by her colleagues, and rightly so. These are only a few of the reasons why," said Castillo.
"One of the top reasons I choose to work at Klein Road is because Mari is our leader. Every school deserves a leader who shows up to work every day to ensure their staff and students are successful. Mari does this by being present and honest, and with a loving and caring heart," said Shari Ayala, the instructional coach at Klein Road Elementary School. "She works at one of the largest elementary schools in the district, but she doesn't stop at just her campus to help others. She is known to help other staff members and principals in our district. She is dependable and hardworking, as evidenced by the fact she was nominated and chosen as our Principal of the Year for our district in the 22/23 school year. Everyone has things going on in their personal lives. Mari's life has drastically changed in the last year. Despite that, she still shows up and leads our campus, making every person feel loved, heard, seen, and cared for. There is no better person than her to receive the LifeChanger of the Year award. She has changed my life not only professionally but personally. I will forever be grateful to have her in my life."
"Mrs. Lopez always thinks of the students first. She takes time to engage with each student authentically and truly believes in eliminating barriers and helping our students reach their fullest potential. She goes above and beyond to meet the needs of our students, whether it is by using her own money to ensure a student does not go hungry or following through with an incentive to help motivate a child. With Mrs. Lopez, the heart of the student comes first, and although academics are critical, safety and emotional well-being always take priority. Mrs. Lopez has developed campus-wide initiatives such as Bridges with Books. This program seeks to connect the entire community in receiving a common book and staying connected through various readers, questions, and even a live hamster to bring the story to life. The whole child is critical to Mrs. Lopez, and she knows we are stronger together as a community, aligned in our common purpose and vision," said Robert Strever, assistant principal at Klein Road Elementary School.
"I wholeheartedly endorse our esteemed school principal, Marisela Lopez, for the LifeChanger of the Year award. As an employee under her exceptional leadership throughout the last nine years, I have had the privilege of witnessing firsthand her remarkable character and unwavering dedication to our school community. One of Mrs. Lopez's greatest strengths is her ability to create a nurturing environment where parents and staff feel comfortable sharing their concerns and ideas. She has established a culture of open communication where everyone's voice is valued and respected. Her parent and staff surveys have become a staple at our school, allowing individuals to express themselves freely and contribute to the betterment of our school climate and culture," said Rosanna Centeno, dyslexia teacher at Klein Road Elementary School.
"Furthermore, her implementation of weekly Professional Learning Time has provided a structured system for feedback, which has been instrumental in addressing challenges and fostering a problem-solving culture within our school. Mrs. Lopez is also an exemplary leader in recognizing and celebrating individual and collective achievements. Her Apple Award program has been a success, boosting morale and reinforcing positive relationships among staff members. By acknowledging and rewarding outstanding contributions, Mrs. Lopez has created a culture of excellence and encouraged staff to strive for continuous improvement," said Centeno.
"One of Mrs. Lopez's most remarkable qualities is her commitment to authentic active listening. She possesses a unique ability to listen with intentionality, focus, and absence of judgment, which has earned her the respect and trust of our entire school community. Her work is genuinely centered around nurturing positive relationships, and it is evident in every interaction she has with students, staff, and parents. I have had the privilege of working with her at two different campuses, and she always made sure her staff knew her door was always open to anyone seeking guidance or support. In my opinion, Mrs. Lopez is an outstanding school principal who embodies the qualities of a true leader. What sets her apart is her extraordinary character, which is marked by kindness, humility, and a deep sense of responsibility. She is a shining example of a true leader who leads by example, empowers others, and fosters a culture of collaboration and mutual respect. I strongly recommend Mrs. Lopez for the LifeChanger of the Year award, and I am confident that she will continue to inspire and motivate others to strive for excellence for years to come," said Centeno.
Mrs. Lopez is the best!! She loves her students and it shows.
Mrs. Lopez is the greatest boss. She welcomed me with open arms, even during the interview process made me feel relaxed when I was nervous. She is always around to help, always smiling and always caring.
I cannot think of a better person for this award than Mrs. Lopez! Her unwavering support and kindness creates an environment where we all feel valued. She has a remarkable ability to find humor in stressful situations, lifting everyone's spirits. Her encouragement inspired not only me but all of her staff and students to reach for our best. Her leadership is a guiding light of positivity, and I’m so grateful for the impact she made on my life and career. She truly is amazing!
Mari Lopez is a kind and genuine leader, but also a fierce advocate. I appreciate her boldness and ability to stand up for what is right, while also having a warm, inviting presence. Her guidance and support has been life-changing for me as I have navigated the first few years of my professional life.
Mrs. Lopez loves her school, staff and students so well! She truly is so deserving! We love her!
Marisela Lopez truly cares about the students. She is an amazing principal and mentor to the kids. She always gives 100% and takes the time to make each kid feel valued and seen.
Mrs. Lopez is a one in a million principal. She is so involved every day, at every event, in every aspect! She makes my kids' school safe and a fun place that they ENJOY going each day! She does everything in her power to be accommodating of needs for both students and parents! We are so lucky to have Mrs. Lopez!
I have watched your growth from your very first job! You are definitely a life changer with an infectious positive attitude. I know I am better because I know you but students are so blessed to have you in their life. Good luck in your journey and keep being you.
My very first time meeting Marisela Lopez, I was in tears. I had just learned my son's paraprofessional was being transferred to a new school. As a special needs mother, major changes in your child's routine is very scary. She assured me she would make his transition with the his new paraprofessional as seamless as possible. She did that, and exceeded my expectations by leaps and bounds. That was over 6 years ago. Since then, I have seen her work her magic through the school as a parent, a PTA president, and I now as a paraprofessional. Marisela saw my knowledge and passion for children with special needs and carved a perfect fit home for me at Klein Road with her. Her thoughtfulness to students and staff is evident. Her compassion with an equal part of leadership fosters a supportive culture, and encourages professional growth. She values everyone equally and consistently makes it clear that she’s here to support us all. I wish whoever is reading and deciding this, could see in real time how impactful Mari is on our campus. I am proud to work at Klein and have her lead us.
Mari is a true role model for all. She continues to find the positive in any giving situation. She is a set of ears to listen, eyes to observe, a shoulder to lean on, arms to help up and hug, and a smile to brighten the day. I am honored to call her Friend.
Mrs. Lopez is so deserving of this award. She has lead with grace and determination for her school while going through one of the greatest tragedies. She loves her school, staff and Students and we love her!
This women has grown up so much. And was given a difficult life changing responsibility. Her husband passed n now is a single mom. She has raised up the ladder with her education all by herself n has accomplished all what she wants to do. But I think she has more on her mind mine with her education.
Mari is a leader who shows up for students and staff every day. She leads by example, exemplifying kindness, courage, and compassion. Her leadership has had a profound and positive influence on the students and community around her. I am so honored to have worked with Mrs. Lopez and learned from her.
Mari is an absolute Rockstar and the epitome of a true role model. I am blessed to have her in my life and to have known her for over 20 years now. She is strong, confident, and most of all, resilient. She deserves this award more than anyone in this world. Even though she is currently trying to overcome her own personal life changes, she continues to leave insurmountable impressions on others. She is my hero. Choose Mari!!
Mrs. Lopez has shown time and time again that she prioritizes strong relationships with everyone in her community. As I reflect on my first year teaching under her leadership, she provided me with such support and encouragement. Every decision that she makes she thinks of the better of the students and her staff. I absolutely endorse Mrs. Lopez as LifeChanger of the year!
Ms. Lopez helped me make the best decision as my twins were entering kindergarten last year and I was struggling to decide if I should put them in the same class together or separate them. She shared with me her own experiences with her twins and helped put my heart and mind at ease. KRE truly has the best leadership!
Marisela Lopez is an amazing woman. She is an excellent supervisor and someone to have in your corner. Our school has a sense of community she is responsible for. She has always been supportive and willing to listen. Deserving of this honor!
Being fortunate to know Mrs. Lopez personally, and working professionally with her in the same school district, she is the epitome of a “Life Changer”!
Mrs. Lopez exudes confidence and compassion in her career as a school principal, is consistently approachable by students, parents, staff and community, is one who puts in the hard work to model for her team the desire to strive for excellence for all students, every day.
Mrs. Lopez is a ROCKSTAR and true inspiration to her students, her community and family! Well deserving of ANY recognition she receives as she truly role models “life changer “ to everyone she serves!
The absolute BEST of the BEST. Mari leads with compassion, integrity and so much heart! She is the type of person who makes everyone, students and staff alike, feel seen and special! I have worked for several administrators and Marisela Lopez is truly the gold standard. She was an amazing boss, but, more importantly, will forever be a cherished friend.
Mrs. Lopez (Mari) is absolutely a one of a kind gem. She leads and loves with her entire heart and soul. She always puts her school staff, students and families first. She goes above and beyond to create and promote the most beautiful, family oriented culture at Klein Road Elementary, and we are BEYOND blessed to love and be loved by her. As one of her teachers, I always know that I’m going to have her full support no matter what. She loves SO big that it truly radiates everywhere she goes. Although Mari faced the most unimaginable tragedy when she lost the love of her life, her husband Coach Lopez, last year, she has continued to put one foot in front of the other and give her absolute best every single day. She no doubt is the perfect candidate for Life Changer of the Year!
Such a kind, strong person! I would have been honored to have her as an educator!
Mrs. Lopez is a true superhero. I had the privilege of working for her for 3 wonderful years. She advocates for all staff and students, gives selflessly of her time, and provides a warm family environment. Mrs. Lopez has spent countless hours fighting for the needs of her teachers and students-as a Special Education teacher, I personally felt the impact of her effort to ensure that ALL students were spoken for and had what they need to be sucessful. Marisela Lopez is LifeChanger.
Mari is an incredible person who influences everyone around her in a positive way. No matter the adversity or issues she faces, she keeps a positive attitude and keeps moving forward. She is a wonderful mother, loving wife, and talented principal.
Mari is a one of a kind special person. We are very close with her father in law and had heard so much about her and then we met her in person. She participated in our 40th year anniversary and she was able to meet all our friends and family. The one consistent comment we received h I w much of a great person she was and how in the face of such trauma and adversity she has continued to perservere. She is a joy to know and the way she continues to inspire others is trually a gift.
It absolutely doesn't surprise me that Marisela Lopez would be nominated for such an award. Her leadership and compassion are evident everyday at Klein Road Elementary School. I've had the pleasure of working under Mrs. Lopez at two different NBISD campuses, each benefiting from her expertise, leadership, transparent communication, and compassion. Teachers seek to work with her because of these traits that are just so natural for her. In 22/23, she won Principal of the Year for NBISD, another well deserved honor. She may oversee one of the largest elementary campuses but still takes the time to develop relationships with her staff and students. To know her is to love her. I absolutely recommend her for this honor.
Wouldn’t have picked anyone else! Well deserved for a hard working dedicated educator and mother!
Mari is a leader who is transparent with her campus staff, she leads with a humble heart and strides to make our school better. I am so proud of her. She is not only a colleague, but a dear friend who each day she shows up pushes through the days where it can be challenging. We are grateful for her.
Mrs. Lopez was there supporting me at the beginning of my teaching career. She leads with a smile and confidence making others want to be the same. She is deserving of many things especially the life changer of the year award!
Absolutely amazing the sweetest and most inspiring person despite life’s troubles ?? forever blessed to have her in my life
