Mrs. Brenda Agnew
If you were to search for the definition of a “natural born teacher”, BRENDA JO
WALKER AGNEW would be the picture you find beside the words. Tenaha ISD has
been blessed with her teaching talents since 1980. Brenda was a paraprofessional
in elementary school for seven years while attending college. Brenda graduated
from Stephen F. Austin in 1986. Armed with certifications in Elementary
Education and Reading began a 22 year career molding young children into
lifelong learners. Brenda completed her master’s degree in education and served
as a mentor to many young teachers. She also served as a Director of the Reading
First Grant for two years. There was hardly a weekend that you didn’t see Mrs.
Agnew’s car at the school preparing for the upcoming week. After retirement,
Brenda has continued to serve the children of Tenaha ISD as a substitute teacher,
interventionist and Tiger supporter.
Brenda is a 1968 graduate of Tenaha ISD. She married a fellow Tenaha Tiger,
Jerry Agnew. They have two children, Scott and Amy, who are also Tenaha
Alumni. Brenda and Jerry have spent countless hours in the “Pit” or gym
supporting the students of Tenaha ISD.
Brenda has two passions in life, teaching and “chasing cans” otherwise known as
barrel racing. She continues to enjoy barrel racing and spending time with her
three grandchildren. Brenda’s legacy as an exemplary educator, mentor, and
advocate for reading for all students will be remembered for years to come.
The Late Ms. Martha Boren
In August, 1992, MARTHA BOREN joined the staff of Tenaha ISD. No
one had any idea at that time what a true Tenaha Tiger supporter she
would become. In her 26 years at Tenaha ISD, Martha served in a
several capacities. She held the titles of Career & Technology Teacher,
English Teacher, UIL Coach and Director, Assistant Principal, Grant
Writer, and Director of Academic Affairs. However, none of these titles
adequately describes the impact Martha had on the students, staff, and
community of Tenaha. She was a tough teacher who expected nothing
but the best from all of her students. She worked tirelessly at extra-
curricular activities serving as cheerleader sponsor for many years,
yearbook coordinator, and never missed a Tiger football game. Martha
made countless trips chaperoning students for endless UIL Academic,
Debate and Robotics competitions. Martha referred to the children of
Tenaha as “her kids”.
Mrs. Boren was responsible for writing many grants that brought extra
money into our school district to improve the curriculum, technology,
and grounds of the district. Martha has left an indelible mark on
Tenaha ISD. In her honor, each year an employee is given the “Martha
Boren, Unsung Hero” Award for working behind the scenes with little to
no credit but making a huge impact on the district. This is exactly what
Martha Boren did for our school.