The DeKalb County School District announced on May 7 that Cross Keys High School student Angelo De La Cruz and ESOL teacher Mary Walker have been named the district’s 2026 Georgia Department of Education Exemplary English Learner and Exemplary ESOL Teacher nominees.
The recognition highlights achievements in academic excellence, leadership, and dedication to supporting multilingual learners. Honoring both a student and an educator underscores the importance of fostering inclusive learning environments for English learners in the school community.
Angelo De La Cruz was recognized for his strong character, academic success, perseverance, leadership skills, and commitment to his community. He maintains a 3.9 GPA while taking four Advanced Placement classes at Cross Keys High School. After arriving in the United States without knowledge of English, he exited the ESOL program within two years and now performs at a level comparable to gifted students. Teachers describe him as “deeply reflective, highly motivated, and committed to excellence,” with interests in astrophysics, neurology, and psychology. Outside academics, De La Cruz balances work responsibilities with participation in school clubs and band performances.
Mary Walker has served as an educator at Cross Keys High School since 2022. She helped establish the Intensive English Program there over her five-year teaching career. Walker supports newcomer students through bilingual instruction methods such as multimedia scaffolds and culturally responsive teaching practices using Sheltered Instruction Observation Protocol strategies. She teaches ESOL I along with ninth grade literature courses tailored for English learners. Her approach is described as creating “a classroom environment where students feel welcomed, valued, and empowered to succeed.” Colleagues recognize her as a collaborative leader who shares expertise across departments.
Both honorees will be formally recognized by the Georgia Department of Education’s ESOL Language Program alongside the State Superintendent of Schools later this year.
Their recognition reflects ongoing efforts within DeKalb County schools to support multilingual achievement among both students learning English as an additional language and educators specializing in their instruction.
