Tegan Potter, a sign language interpreter in Humble ISD's Deaf Education Program, has been named the 2026 TAPED Outstanding Interpreter Award recipient by the Texas Association of Parents and Educators of the Deaf (TAPED).
The statewide award recognizes excellence in educational interpreting and honors professionals who help ensure students who are deaf or hard of hearing have equitable access to education. Potter received the award June 25 during the Texas Statewide Conference on Education of the Deaf (SWCED).
Potter's journey with Humble ISD began as an interpreter intern before she became a full-time interpreter. Colleagues say her commitment to students and continuous professional growth has distinguished her throughout her career.
Selected from nominees across Texas, Potter was recognized for her skill, professionalism and dedication to students. Her work helps create inclusive learning environments that provide meaningful access to education while fostering strong relationships with students, families and colleagues.
"Tegan Potter's journey from interpreter intern to staff interpreter reflects her unwavering dedication to equal access, professionalism and compassion," retired Humble ISD interpreter Terry Ulrich said. "She exemplifies the very best of the interpreting profession, and this recognition is truly well deserved."
"From the moment she joined our program, Tegan has been a true blessing," Humble ISD's deaf and hard of hearing specialist Layna Piering said. "She brings a thoughtful approach that immediately puts students at ease, creating a safe and supportive learning environment where they can thrive."
In addition to interpreting in the classroom, Potter serves as co-sponsor of the elementary American Sign Language Club, promoting ASL and Deaf culture among students. She provides interpreting services at Oaks Elementary and, as needed, at Timberwood Middle School and Atascocita High School. She also interprets for Deaf staff members during Admission, Review and Dismissal (ARD) meetings, where her preparation and ability to accurately interpret specialized educational terminology help ensure full participation in the decision-making process.
"Watching Tegan work with students and staff is truly inspiring," Humble ISD's deaf and hard of hearing specialist for secondary campuses Laura Whitfield said. "She brings a calm, grounded presence that puts people at ease, which is not something you can teach or train into someone. It's a reflection of who she is because she cares so deeply about those around her.
"Our students trust her because she consistently shows up for them, and they know she genuinely cares. She represents the very best of what Humble ISD looks like in Deaf Education, and I couldn't be prouder of her and all that she has achieved through her hard work and willingness to keep pushing herself."
While grateful for the statewide recognition, Potter said the most rewarding moments continue to happen in the classroom.
"I love working with the kids. I prefer elementary, and it's just so rewarding getting to see them build language and being a language model for them," Potter said. "Then seeing them use that language, seeing them make friends and seeing them succeed in their education and make good grades."
Potter recently passed the Educational Interpreter Performance Assessment, a nationally recognized evaluation of interpreting skills, and earned a Bachelor of Science in Deaf and Hard of Hearing from Stephen F. Austin State University in May, further strengthening her ability to serve students.