Texas Border Business
Rio Grande Valley, Texas – IDEA Public Schools is proud to announce three outstanding educators from IDEA Rio Grande Valley are recipients of the 2025 Yale Educator Award, presented by the Yale University Office of Undergraduate Admissions. This distinguished award recognizes teachers and counselors from around the country who inspire and support their students to excel academically and pursue higher education. Students entering Yale’s Class of 2029 nominated educators who had a profound impact on their journeys.
Among the educators selected is Mr. Indalecio Soto, a mathematics teacher at IDEA Tres Lagos College Preparatory.
“I am deeply honored to receive the 2025 Yale Educator Award and be nominated by one of my students,” said Mr. Soto. “While I don’t seek recognition, it’s incredibly meaningful to know that my work is making a difference in the lives of my students. Teaching math is my passion, and I’m grateful for the opportunity to help shape the future through education.”
Now in his seventh year with IDEA Public Schools and his third year at IDEA Tres Lagos College Prep, Mr. Soto teaches rigorous math courses, including AP Pre-Calculus, AP Calculus, and OnRamps College Algebra. A McAllen native and first-generation college graduate, he earned both his bachelor’s and master’s degrees in mathematics from the University of Texas–Pan American. His passion for teaching lies in making mathematics approachable, engaging, and fun, and he is committed to helping every student reach their full potential.
Mr. Soto was nominated by Lorena Rivera, a Yale Class of 2029 student from IDEA Tres Lagos College Preparatory. Rivera credited Mr. Soto with inspiring her to push beyond limits and excel in mathematics.
“Mr. Soto never let me give up on myself,” said Lorena Rivera, IDEA alumni. “He pushed me to see that I could take on challenges I never thought possible, and he made me believe that I could achieve my dreams. I would not be where I am today without his encouragement and support.”
The full list of IDEA educators in the RGV recognized this year includes:
- Ms. Alizandra Alonzo, English, IDEA Pharr College Preparatory (nominated by Annasophia Castillo)
- Mr. Indalecio Soto, Mathematics, IDEA Tres Lagos College Prep (nominated by Lorena Rivera)
- Ms. Luzie Espinosa, Counselor, IDEA Pharr College Preparatory (nominated by Annasophia Castillo)
“It is inspiring to see our Rio Grande Valley educators recognized on a national stage,” said Jill Dominguez, IDEA Area Superintendent in the RGV. “This recognition reflects the deep commitment our teachers and counselors have to prepare students not only for college, but for life. We are so proud of their impact and the example they set for all of us.”
Each Yale Educator Award winner receives an engraved desk set and formal recognition from Yale Admissions, honoring their exceptional role in shaping students’ futures.
