2024 Lifetime Service Award Winner

Leonard​

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Region 8

Leonard started his journey with the migrant education program as a migratory student. Upon high school graduation, he earned his bachelor’s degree -- while working as a paraprofessional. After teaching for several years, Leonard served as the Bilingual/ESL/Migrant
Consultant before becoming Director of State and Federal Programs. He retired with 16 years of service.
Even after becoming a federal programs director, he continued to work with migratory families. In addition to his role of director, he maintained a special connection to the Migrant Education Program through supporting MEP districts, serving as the AMET Regional Director, sharing his expertise on various TEA focus groups, and presenting at the state level about the importance of literacy in the home. He was even named the AMET Administrator of the Year in 2021. 
Leonard is a lifelong learner and always has a book at hand. He is currently in the process
of publishing his own children’s book. A co-worker remembers fondly when he visited individually with a migratory student who was at risk of dropping out of school. The administrator from the school district contacted us to highlight the impact Leonard had on that student. Eventually, the student graduated from high school and even participated in the trip to Washington, D.C.
Leonard is well liked and respected across Texas, but his largest impact is in his area of
Texas where he grew up as a migratory child.  It is here that he made his home with his family and invested in his community. His co-workers and staff all recognize him as the ultimate servant leader and valued his opinion, insights, and his sharp sense of humor (he is so punny!) while mentioning his love for data.