Pooja Mulgaonker, a Special Education teacher at Kiker Elementary School in Austin Independent School District, has been named the 2026 Region 13 Elementary Teacher of the Year. She will go on to represent Region 13 at the Texas State Teacher of the Year competition.
Mulgaonker has worked for two decades in early childhood special education, focusing on inclusive and innovative teaching practices. “Pooja has 20 years of experience transforming early childhood special education with inclusive, innovative teaching,” the district stated.
In addition to Mulgaonker’s recognition, David Bellesen from Travis Early College High School was honored at the Region 13 Luncheon as Austin ISD Secondary Teacher of the Year. “We are so AISD proud of David and Pooja!” according to district officials.
Each year, 40 Regional Teachers of the Year are selected statewide in Texas. Of these, two educators—one elementary and one secondary—are chosen as State Teachers of the Year.
Mulgaonker will now compete for the statewide title, representing both ESC Region 13 and Austin ISD’s commitment to educational excellence. “Pooja will compete for the statewide title, representing ESC Region 13 and Austin ISD’s commitment to educational excellence,” said an official statement from Austin ISD.
The honors reflect continued efforts by Austin ISD teachers to promote quality education across different levels within Texas public schools.
