Hempstead ISD Advanced Academics/CTE Coordinator, Diana Wood, was awarded the September Superintendent's Higher Heights award at the Hempstead Independent School District Board Meeting on September 18.
Wood was nominated for the Superintendent's Higher Heights Award, which recognizes students, teachers, staff, and community members who are going above and beyond to make a positive impact on Hempstead ISD students and the community.
Wood’s journey into education was a unique one. She found her passion for teaching while studying to become a plant researcher. While working at the Laboratory of Tree-Ring Research, she volunteered to teach dendrochronology in schools through their outreach program.
“It became one of my favorite things to do,” Wood said. “I realized that research was great, but my heart was in the classroom.”
Wood has not looked back since. She has made it her mission to provide opportunities for all students to develop that same passion for various pathways that they choose to pursue in high school and beyond.
In her role, she recognizes the importance of building strong relationships with students, their families, and colleagues. She believes that understanding each student individually is the key to building trust. Every student has a unique story and perspective, and she finds inspiration in each of them.
“I love teaching and working with our students. Being on campus and working with students brings me joy and purpose.”
Wood manages several programs that help prepare Hempstead ISD students for life after graduation. Her focus is to ensure that students graduate College, Career, and Military ready. Her passion for research has not disappeared and she uses those skills frequently to determine how to best provide new opportunities for students.
Wood’s mother, who returned to school in her 30s to earn her bachelor's degree and work with students with dyslexia, was her first teacher and her biggest inspiration. She draws inspiration from life-long learners and educators like her mom and Dr. Donna Ford, whose work in equity in gifted and talented programs has been transformative.
As an advocate of Career Technical Education (CTE) and vocational training, it was her own children’s educational journey that showed her how hands-on learning experiences and diverse educational offerings can change the trajectory of a student’s life.
Wood’s goal is to help each student succeed in their chosen pathway.
“I watched Ms. Wood implement a summer CTE grant, which helped twenty Hempstead ISD students earn a steady summer income through the CTE summer internship program,” Assistant Superintendent of Learning and Leading, Brittany Anderson, said. “Her work with the summer CTE grant led to students earning certifications that will support their future. The work that she has done is directly aligned with our district vision, mission, and strategic plan.”
Wood is currently pursuing her doctoral degree in Educational Administration and Human Resource Development at Texas A&M University. Her research focuses on the impact of dual credit participation in post-secondary matriculation for traditionally under-represented students. Her goal is to graduate in 2027 with insights to further enhance educational opportunities for all students.
If you would like to nominate someone who has made a significant difference or contribution to Hempstead ISD, please submit the nomination through the online Higher Heights Award Nomination Form.