Betty Aragon, a special education teacher at Mesa Elementary was selected as one of three educators in Westminster Public Schools who were honored as 2021 Westminster Elks Teachers of the Year honor. Aragon believes that every child deserves to be treated with kindness and respect. She approaches every new relationship with a student as an opportunity to get to know them and their personality before diving into their Individualized Education Plan.

Aragon grew up in Eztatlan, Mexico and says her interest in becoming a special education teacher was sparked by her experiences when growing up with a friend and neighbor, Katy, who has Down Syndrome. Aragon was troubled by seeing the lack of support for Katy and resolved to do her part to make a difference.

Mesa Elementary Principal, Janelle Stastny nominated Aragon for the award by saying, “Everybody loves Betty, and you will too when you learn more about her.”

Watch the video above and learn more about why the students and staff at Mesa love Mrs. Aragon.