ETAMU Alumnus Named RISD Elementary Teacher of the Year

Richardson Independent School District (RISD) named East Texas A&M University alumnus Dylan Kirk both a Superior Teaching Achievements in RISD Schools (STARS) Teacher and the 2025 RISD Elementary Teacher of the Year.

Kirk, who graduated with a Bachelor of Music in Music Education in December 2020, began his teaching career just weeks later at Richland Elementary School in Richardson, Texas. He has remained there for five years, teaching music to students in kindergarten through sixth grade.

Being named a STARS Teacher placed Kirk among eight educators across the district recognized for excellence in the classroom. From there, he advanced to become the District Elementary Teacher of the Year, representing all of RISD's elementary schools.

Kirk said the most rewarding part of his job is seeing students discover their voices and grow in confidence. “There's nothing more rewarding than seeing a child step onto a stage unsure of themselves and then shine with confidence as they perform,” Kirk said. “Every rehearsal and performance gives my students the chance to grow not only as musicians, but as leaders and individuals.”

At Richland Elementary, Kirk makes it a priority to provide opportunities that inspire creativity and pride. “Knowing that I can give them experiences they may not otherwise have … moments that inspire confidence, creativity and pride is truly what makes teaching so meaningful to me,” he said.

Kirk credits his time at East Texas A&M with shaping his career path. Inspired by courses like Music and Movement, taught by Darla Meek, he found his passion for teaching music to young learners. “I immediately fell in love with Elementary Music and knew I wanted to teach,” Kirk said. “I will forever remember my time at ETAMU!”

For current and future East Texas A&M students, Kirk's accomplishments highlight the impact that begins in the classroom at Commerce and extends to communities across Texas.