DeSoto ISD Celebrates Shaneria Beans as Texas Instruments Innovative STEM Grant Teacher of the Year
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DeSoto Independent School District (ISD) is proud to announce Shaneria Beans, Mathematics Educator at DeSoto High School, as the recipient of the 2026 Texas Instruments Innovative STEM Grant Teacher of the Year Award. This prestigious recognition honors educators who demonstrate excellence in STEM instruction, innovation in the classroom, and a deep commitment to expanding opportunities for student achievement in science, technology, engineering, and mathematics.
A dynamic and emerging leader in STEM education, Beans is already making a measurable impact in just her second year in the classroom. A proud graduate of Texas Southern University, she holds both a Bachelor’s and Master’s degree in Mathematics and brings a strong foundation of academic excellence paired with real-world instructional experience. Prior to her full-time teaching role, she contributed to cross-curricular enrichment programs such as the Children’s Defense Fund Freedom School, shaping her student-centered, equity-driven approach to teaching.
At DeSoto High School, Beans teaches Algebra I Honors and serves as a Dual Credit Professor in partnership with Dallas College—providing students with early access to college-level coursework and expectations while still in high school. Her impact is evident in student outcomes, with Algebra I achievement growth exceeding ten percentage points, reflecting her intentional focus on meeting students where they are and accelerating their success.
Beyond the classroom, Beans has quickly emerged as a STEM innovator and program builder. This year, she founded the DeSoto High School UIL Robotics Club, where students have rapidly engaged in hands-on engineering and design experiences. In its inaugural season, the team has constructed multiple small robots, built a full competition robot, and represented DeSoto ISD at both the HAKCon and Best Southwest STEM Competition—establishing a strong foundation for sustained STEM excellence.
“Ms. Beans represents exactly what innovation in education looks like in action,” said Mr. Brent Mitchell, Interim Superintendent of Schools. “She is not only strengthening students academically, but she is also expanding their belief in what is possible through STEM pathways. Her work reflects the very best of DeSoto ISD’s commitment to preparing students for college, career, and beyond.”
Dr. Raisha Allen, DeSoto ISD STEM Coordinator, also praised Beans’ early impact on the district’s STEM ecosystem, stating, “What makes Ms. Beans exceptional is her ability to connect rigorous mathematics instruction with authentic STEM experiences. She is building confidence, curiosity, and competence in her students at the same time. The foundation she is laying in robotics and dual credit learning will have a lasting impact on our STEM pipeline.”
Reflecting on her recognition, Beans shared, “I am honored to receive this award, but my greatest reward is watching students realize that they are capable of more than they imagined. Whether through Algebra I or robotics, my goal is to create spaces where students see themselves as mathematicians, engineers, and problem-solvers.”
The Texas Instruments Innovative STEM Grant Teacher of the Year Award highlights educators who are redefining STEM instruction through creativity, engagement, and real-world application. Through this recognition, DeSoto ISD celebrates not only an outstanding educator, but also the continued growth of a district-wide commitment to expanding access to high-quality STEM learning experiences.
DeSoto ISD congratulates Shaneria Beans on this well-deserved honor and celebrates her continued impact on students, innovation, and the future of STEM education in the district. This prestigious honor includes a $10,000 award supporting both personal recognition and continued classroom innovation.