Meet Abigail Eliezer
In a remarkable testament to dedication and passion, Abigail Eliezer, an esteemed educator at Klentzman Intermediate School, has been honored with the prestigious H-E-B Lifetime Achievement Award. This accolade not only highlights her extraordinary contributions to the field of education but also underscores the vital role of Fine and Visual Arts in shaping young minds.
A Lifetime of Dedication
For Abigail Eliezer, the H-E-B Lifetime Achievement Award serves as a profound validation of her life's work. She expresses the honor as “the single greatest thing to ever happen to me besides the births of my children.” Through her journey from nomination to victory, Eliezer has gained newfound recognition for her impact on students and the community.
“This award gives others a glimpse into the importance of the Fine and Visual Arts. What we do is so important, and it makes a difference to so many children,” she shares. Bringing this award to Alief and Klentzman is a moment of pride and humility for Eliezer, who is also grateful for the financial relief it provides for her family.
Passion Fueled by Students
Abigail Eliezer’s passion for teaching is deeply rooted in her students’ success and self-discovery. She reveals, “When they succeed, I succeed. When they discover themselves from a piece of artwork, I know I have made a difference.” Inspired by exceptional educators during her own schooling, Eliezer has always aspired to emulate their influence.
Her commitment to continuous learning and professional development fuels her enthusiasm. “Every time I take a class, my wheels start spinning, and I start thinking about how this would make a difference to my students,” she notes. Eliezer is grateful for the mentors who have guided her from good to great, emphasizing the importance of a strong support system in overcoming challenges.
Advice for Aspiring Teachers
For those entering the teaching profession, Eliezer offers sage advice: “Don’t listen to what people say on social media. What we do makes a difference every single day.” She emphasizes the need for resilience, professional growth, and a willingness to face challenges head-on.
“Be the kind of role model for the kids that you wished you had had, or that you did have,” she advises. Eliezer encourages aspiring teachers to embrace flexibility, seek help when needed, and commit to lifelong learning as essential components of educational success.
The Principal's Perspective
Amelia Tukes, the principal of Klentzman Intermediate, shares her admiration for Eliezer, saying, “Ms. Eliezer is such a joy. She has a true passion for being a true art educator. Mrs. Eliezer continuously assists our students and struggling artists to find their voice and wholeheartedly commits to leaving a lifelong legacy of bringing beauty and understanding into the lives of young people.”
Tukes highlights Eliezer's favorite quote by Mahatma Gandhi: “If we are to teach real peace in this world…we shall have to begin with children.” She adds, “Mrs. Eliezer strives each day to not only share her love of Visual Arts with children, yet to also teach them love and kindness, and to see the good in others and themselves.” Tukes notes that Eliezer’s character as an Art Educator is a true reflection of Gandhi’s quote, evident in her words and deeds as an educator and leader.
Looking Ahead
Despite her recent accolade, Abigail Eliezer’s focus remains steadfast: to continue being the best art teacher, colleague, and mentor she can be. “I won a big award, but I am still the art teacher,” she states with humility.
Eliezer looks forward to personal milestones, including her son’s upcoming college graduation, and plans to engage in professional development over the summer. Her dedication to teaching is unwavering, as she plans to “keep teaching as long as my health and my heart will allow me.”
Abigail Eliezer’s journey is a testament to the transformative power of education and the enduring impact of passionate educators. Her story inspires current and future teachers to strive for excellence and to make a lasting difference in the lives of their students.
