Kristina Ballesteros
Position: Third Grade Teacher
School: Fredric Watson Elementary School
School District: Clark County School District
City, State: North Las Vegas, NV
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Kristina Ballesteros was nominated anonymously.
Ms. Ballesteros believes that creating a positive classroom environment starts with building trust and respect. Students need to feel safe, seen, and valued. That means greeting them by name, listening to their ideas, and setting clear, consistent expectations.
Structure helps students feel secure, but so does flexibility—adapting when needed shows you care about their individual needs. She thinks that positive reinforcement, acknowledging effort (not just outcomes), and celebrating progress (no matter how small), builds confidence and motivates students to keep trying. A supportive tone, inclusive language, and a zero-tolerance policy for bullying go a long way in shaping behavior in her classroom.
Engagement also matters to her. Her lessons are interactive, relevant, and challenging enough to spark curiosity. She encourages questions, group work, and critical thinking. When students feel their voices matter, they're more likely to participate and take ownership of their learning.
Finally, Ms. Ballesteros models the behavior she expects. She stays calm under pressure, admits her mistakes, and treats everyone with kindness. Her attitude sets the tone. A positive classroom isn't just about rules and routines, but about relationships. When students feel respected and empowered, the whole environment shifts. Learning becomes something they want to do, not something they have to do.
Ms. Ballesteros has successfully managed restaurant operations across a range of service levels, from casual dining to fine dining. Her responsibilities included overseeing daily operations, leading teams, maintaining high service standards, and ensuring customer satisfaction. In the education field, Ms. Ballesteros actively participated in several district initiatives. She served as a "Train the Trainer" participant for Transformational Schools, mentored colleagues, and led training sessions to support professional growth. Her role extended beyond the classroom through volunteer work in after-school tutoring programs, where she supported English Language Learners and students needing additional help in core academic subjects.
These experiences reflect her ability to lead, support others, and adapt to diverse environments. Whether in hospitality or education, Ms. Ballesteros consistently focuses on building strong teams, improving outcomes, and making a positive impact on those she serves.
She is one of the best teachers I've ever had. she was fun and amazing and caring for us. she was so nice and helped a lot for my education.
I've had the opportunity to teach with Kristina during the past 3 summers. She is a wonderful colleague and teacher whose support is invaluable to everyone around her. Kristina is always happy and friendly with her students, their families, and the staff members. She is always willing to share her knowledge and lend a hand, even when she's busy. Kristina has excellent teaching skills and a positive attitude. She creates a collaborative, encouraging environment where all students feel supported. Kristina's approachable nature and unwavering dedication make her a truly exceptional teacher and a fantastic person to work with.
Ms.Ballesteros has been the best teacher I knew. She would encourage kids to do better and try their best even if they weren't the nicest. She also had made many kids' days and brighted their time with her including mine. She would try her best making students smile and courage themselves, Even when times were difficult she would have kept going and tried teaching these kids, Though she went in a serious car crash she still helped us through MAP testing and SBAC testing. She is an amazing teacher and would make sure students were safe. Am mareselas one of Ms.Ballesteros' students about 2 years ago, am now in 7th grade and even though I am in a different school I know Ms. Ballesteros is still trying her best and she will always be the best teacher I knowed.
Ms. Ballesteros is a dedicated and inspiring educator whose professionalism and clarity make a meaningful impact on both students and colleagues. Her classroom runs smoothly due to well-established routines, yet she remains flexible, adjusting her methods promptly to meet individual needs. She goes out of her way to support students with special education needs, frequently collaborating to provide appropriate accommodations and ensure student success.
Through her consistent presence, encouragement, and respect for each learner, Ms. Ballesteros fosters an environment where students feel safe, valued, and understood. Her thoughtful approach and willingness to adapt make her an invaluable member of our team and a strong example of effective, student-centered teaching.
I had Ms. Ballesteros as my 5th grade teacher 4 years, and I still remember how easy she made math for me. It was always fun to be in her class and she always helped me understand the task at hand. I am now in 9th grade and I still appreciate her time and patients with me every day. She deserves this so much and I am so proud to be one of her amazing students, and I am so proud of her to continue this legacy that she has built till now.
She is such an inspiring and supportive teacher.Her passion in teaching and dedication to her students make a big difference in the classroom,truly commendable.
Ms. Ballesteros was probably the one of the best teachers I've ever had. She's always been there for her students and many others. Even after getting into a serious car crash, she still taught my class. Although, my class wasn't exactly the nicest, she was. She continued teaching us to help us through MAPS testing, even spending extra time tutoring students who were struggling with math. She helps brighten peoples moods and help them get through the day smoothly, even if the day didn't start off well. (saying this from personal experience.) So, in the end, she'll be a students best friend as well as a college's best friend.
Ms. Ballesteros is such an efficient educator. She is always prepared and makes sure everything is ready for her students. When you are in her classroom, it is such a stress free environment because she makes learning easy and fun for them. Teaching is definitely her passion, it's innate for Ms. Ballesteros. #LCOY
Ms. Ballesteros fosters a positive classroom environment by addressing and respecting the individual needs of her students. She is consistently present and supportive, ensuring that her students feel valued and understood. Her classroom operates like a well-oiled machine, thanks to the structured routine she has established. Ms. Ballesteros is always prepared to adjust her methods to meet her students' needs promptly. Her simple yet effective approach makes her a beacon of clarity and inspiration in the educational community.
Ms. Ballesteros is an astonishing teacher. She was always there whenever I needed help. Ms. Ballesteros makes learning exciting and engaging, always encouraging us to think deeper and believe in ourselves. Shes such an amazing and inspiring teacher. #LCOY
Ms. Ballesteros is an inspiring teacher who goes above and beyond to help her students succeed. She creates a classroom environment where everyone feels valued and encouraged to do their best. Ms. Ballesteros is truly an amazing teacher. #LCOY
Ms.B is a grate teacher and the school needs the money
I am a former student of Ms.ballesteros and she is an outstanding teacher. She made me believe in myself more than anyone when it came down to my education, she made me see that only I can make the change that I want to see and that integrity is essential for life. Going to her classroom was more than just studying or taking notes it was learning how to be become the responsible and respectful person that we should all be. She truly cares about her students and their education and that's what make's her an outstanding teacher, but most importantly she is an inspiration.
Ms. Ballesteros is an exceptional educator and a shining example of what it means to be a role model. Her positivity and go-getter attitude are contagious, inspiring both her students and colleagues every day. She creates a classroom environment that is warm, welcoming, and inclusive-making sure her students feel safe and supported before any learning begins. Kristina is also a great team player and communicates well with parents, ensuring strong partnerships that benefit every student in her class. Her passion, professionalism, and heart for teaching make her an invaluable asset to her school community.
It is my pleasure to share my experience about Ms. Ballesteros. This summer, at our Extended School Year session, she had several students that required a high level of instruction for social/behavior goals, all of which had Behavior Intervention Plans that warranted a Crisis Plan for each student. She had students with a history of elopement, aggressive behaviors toward students and staff, token boards, and frequent/consistent reinforcement. Ms. Ballesteros partnered with the parents, the assistants assigned to her classroom, school leadership, and Specials teachers to determine how to best meet the needs of each student in her class. She came to work every day, refreshed and ready to start anew. She worked everyday with a great attitude and although she had the hardest class on campus, I did not hear her complain one time. Good luck!! You deserve this.
Ms. Kristina consistently goes above and beyond in her role as an educator, offering free after-school tutorials to support struggling fifth-grade students out of her own time and initiative. Her commitment to student success is unwavering—she stays late, customizes instruction to meet individual needs, and fosters confidence and motivation in her learners. She not only provides academic support but also celebrates student progress through praise, certificates, and classroom recognition, reinforcing their efforts in meaningful ways. Her ability to build balanced, trusting relationships with her students creates a respectful, encouraging classroom where every child feels valued. Ms. Kristina’s dedication, compassion, and impact extend far beyond the classroom, making her truly deserving of the LifeChanger of the Year Award.
This pretty lady knows the best for her kiddos! Had a great time learning from her some time ago! Commendable indeed!
Ms. Ballesteros is a true difference-maker. She cares deeply about her students' success and consistently goes above and beyond to ensure they understand the material. She is committed to her own growth as an educator, always seeking opportunities to expand her knowledge so she can inspire excitement and curiosity in her students across all subjects. especially STEM. Beyond, the classroom, she tutors friends and family with patience and compassion. Ms. Ballesteros believes every students is more than a test score- they are unique, creative, and full of potential. With the right opportunities, she knows they will thrive.
Ms. Ballesteros is an outstanding teacher who creates a positive classroom by building trust and respect with her students. She makes them feel safe and valued, sets clear expectations, and celebrates their progress. Her lessons are engaging and encourage curiosity and critical thinking. She is dedicated, caring, and always focused on helping others succeed. Ms. Ballesteros has touched the lives of her students by inspiring confidence, encouraging them to believe in themselves, and showing them that their voices matter. Her commitment to both academic growth and personal development makes her not only a great teacher but also a lasting influence in her students’ lives. #LCOY
Ms. Ballesteros is a teacher who truly changes lives. She creates a classroom culture where students feel safe, respected, and inspired to reach their potential. By combining structure with compassion, she encourages curiosity, responsibility, and resilience in every learner. She celebrates growth, no matter how small, and motivates students to believe in themselves even when challenges arise. Her positive influence extends far beyond her classroom walls—she mentors colleagues, leads professional development, supports district initiatives, and invests in after-school programs that uplift struggling learners and English Language Learners. Her diverse background in leadership, education, and service equips her with the unique ability to connect with students, families, and staff from all walks of life. Ms. Ballesteros embodies the qualities of an outstanding educator: patience, empathy, high expectations, and a deep commitment to making a difference. She is not only a role model for her students but also an inspiration to her peers and community.
#LCOY
Ms. Ballesteros transforms her classroom into a place where every child feels safe, valued, and capable of success. She greets students with warmth, listens to their voices, and sets clear expectations that build both confidence and responsibility. Her balance of structure and compassion motivates students not just to learn, but to love learning. Beyond academics, she models respect, resilience, and kindness—qualities that shape her students for life. Her influence reaches beyond the classroom as she mentors colleagues, leads initiatives, and supports families, making her an anchor of the school community. Ms. Ballesteros is more than an outstanding teacher—she is an inspiration who leaves a lasting impact wherever she serves.
#LCOY
Ms. Ballesteros has made a significant and lasting impact on the school community. With students, she fostered a positive and inclusive learning environment that supported both academic achievement and social-emotional growth. She built strong partnerships with parents through open communication and consistent support, ensuring families felt engaged and valued in the educational process. Among colleagues, she contributed to a culture of collaboration and professional growth by sharing strategies, offering encouragement, and modeling teamwork. Beyond the school, she extended her influence into the community by participating in events and initiatives that strengthened the connection between families and the school. Her dedication, leadership, and compassion have truly enriched the entire community.
#LCOY
