Harmony Public Schools Houston South & West District is proud to recognize two exceptional educators whose dedication, leadership and passion for student success have made a lasting impact on their campuses and school communities.

This year’s Teachers of the Year are inspiring students both inside and outside the classroom through innovative instruction, mentorship and a commitment to excellence in education.

Elementary Teacher of the Year: Fatima Hasan

Harmony School of Fine Arts

Fatima Hasan, a classroom teacher at Harmony School of Fine Arts, has been named the Houston South & West District Elementary Teacher of the Year for her outstanding commitment to student achievement and campus leadership.

Known for creating an engaging and inclusive classroom environment, Hasan ensures every student feels valued, supported and inspired to succeed. Her ability to adapt lessons to meet diverse learning needs while encouraging creativity and critical thinking has helped students thrive academically and socially.

Under her leadership, her second-grade cohort demonstrated significant growth in foundational literacy and numeracy skills, reflecting her data-driven approach to instruction and dedication to continuous student growth.

Beyond her classroom, Hasan is recognized as a “teacher of teachers” by her colleagues. She consistently volunteers for campus initiatives, mentors fellow educators and serves as a dependable source of support for her grade-level team.

Her classroom culture also stands out for fostering confidence, resilience and collaboration among students. By encouraging students to take risks, learn from challenges and celebrate one another’s successes, Hasan creates a safe and supportive learning environment where students can grow both academically and emotionally.

Secondary Teacher of the Year: Rajani Dhadral

Harmony School of Innovation Katy

Rajani Dhadral, a science teacher at Harmony School of Innovation Katy, has earned the title of Houston South & West District Secondary Teacher of the Year for her exceptional leadership, instructional excellence and commitment to student engagement.

Dhadral’s impact extends far beyond the science classroom. She sponsors multiple student organizations, including the Red Cross Club, STEM Scholars, Doctors Without Borders and the Young Women’s Leadership Collective, helping students develop leadership skills, community awareness and a passion for STEM-related careers.

She also serves in numerous leadership roles across the campus and district, including ILT Model Teacher, Biology SCL, Biology PLC Leader, Engagement and Events Coordinator, Mentor Teacher and Micro-credential Ambassador.

A lifelong learner and advocate for professional growth, Dhadral has participated in several prestigious development programs, including HALA, the Rice University AMP Program, Biology Catalyst and Harmony micro-credential initiatives.

Her contributions to Harmony Public Schools include STEM mentoring through the EIR program, serving as a CARE Team member, curriculum writing and leading collaborative biology instruction efforts.

Dhadral’s accomplishments have also earned her national and campus recognition, including the NSHSS Educator of Distinction Award for 2025-2026, Character School Committee Co-Chair recognition and a Masters Teacher Designation.

Honoring Excellence in Education

The Houston South & West District Teachers of the Year represent the heart of Harmony Public Schools’ mission to provide high-quality education while inspiring students to become lifelong learners, leaders and innovators.

Through their passion, leadership and dedication, Fatima Hasan and Rajani Dhadral continue to make a meaningful difference in the lives of students, families and fellow educators across the Harmony community.