Riverwood Middle School 2025-2026 Teacher of the Year, Brian Tapner, has been named the winner of Amigo Energy’s 2025 “Thank a Teacher” Giveaway. Representatives from Amigo Energy visited Mr. Tapner’s classroom on Thursday to present him with a $1,000 check, recognizing his outstanding leadership both in and out of the classroom.
The Amigo Energy “Thank a Teacher” Giveaway is open to school districts across the Houston area. This year, the program received more than 250 nominations from approximately 10 school districts, with only one educator selected as the winner. Mr. Tapner’s recognition marks the first time an Humble ISD teacher has won this giveaway.
The selection committee evaluated nominees based on their impact in the classroom and their involvement in the community.
“We look for someone who embodies community values, makes a lasting difference in their students’ lives, and someone they’ll look back on in 10 or 20 years and say, ‘I’m so grateful to have had a teacher like that,” said Brianna Alaniz, Amigo Energy’s Marketing Coordinator.
Mr. Tapner’s dedication to coaching middle school Academic UIL and his years of service in Little League baseball—helping young athletes thrive beyond the classroom—stood out to the selection committee.
“In the classroom, Mr. Tapner is an incredible teacher,” said Riverwood Middle School Principal Matthew Roser. “He collaborates effectively with his team and delivers lessons with precision. His classroom is a place where productive struggles and meaningful discussions are encouraged daily. Students are constantly challenged to think critically and engage in open dialogue about the content.”
For Mr. Tapner, teaching is about fostering a positive and supportive learning environment where students feel encouraged to grow, challenge themselves, and develop a true appreciation for math.
“I am fortunate to be at a school with students who push me to be a better teacher every day,” Mr. Tapner said. “They allow me to be creative and think outside the box—just as I hope to inspire them to do. I’m incredibly grateful to Amigo Energy for this recognition and for bringing such a positive energy into my classroom!”
Photo caption: Pictured (left to right): Amigo Energy Representatives Brianna Alaniz and Judith Chapman; Riverwood Middle School 2025-2026 Campus Teacher of the Year Brian Tapner; Riverwood Middle School Principal Matthew Roser; and Donnie Bodron, Assistant Superintendent of Middle Schools.