Devoted Teacher Brings Cougar Spirit to Next Generation

This National Teacher Appreciation Week, we’re shining a spotlight on Natalie Heard (’13), a dedicated and passionate educator whose journey to the classroom proves it’s never too late to follow a dream.

“I had always wanted to be a teacher for as long as I can remember,” Natalie said. “Growing up, I was one of those little girls who ‘played school’ with my stuffed animals and dolls.”

Inspired by several of her former teachers, Natalie pursued a teaching degree from the University of Houston College of Education. She graduated in 2013 and has worked tirelessly since to shape the lives of her young students. Natalie teaches Kindergarten at Woodard Elementary in the Cypress Fairbanks Independent School District, where she lays the foundation for her students’ education. Like 70% of UH alumni, she remained in the Houston area after graduation and put her degree to use re-investing in her local community. The positive impact graduates like Natalie have on Houston is exactly why student scholarships are a core pillar of the Next Level campaign.

What began as a childhood passion for her is now a meaningful career filled with lasting impact.

“The most rewarding part of my teaching journey has been making an impact and difference in the lives of young children,” she shares. Former students, now in high school and college, frequently visit her to let her know that she’s made a lasting impression. She describes one special moment when a former student came by with his family, just to give her a hug.

“He wanted to thank me for standing up for him, never giving up on him and always being there for him all throughout elementary school. He said I was his favorite teacher, and he just had to tell me that!”

For Natalie, the work doesn’t stop when her students leave her class. It’s also about supporting the next generation of teachers.

“They are shaping our young children to become the future of our society!” she explains. “Today’s educators are tested every day, and so much pressure is put on teachers with little or no support from their communities, schools or the families of their students. It is up to us to be there for them!”

Natalie credits the College of Education with preparing her for the realities of the classroom through courses that focused on practical skills and real-world readiness. A forever Coog at heart, Natalie has been an enthusiastic UH Life Member since 2018. She regularly cheers on her beloved Cougars at football and basketball games, and she brings the school spirit into her classroom, too.

“I always teach my Kindergarten class the ‘Go Coogs’ cheer and hand sign!” she says with pride.

In addition to classroom teaching, Natalie is the Pom & Dance coach at her school. As a former Cougar Doll, she enjoys passing along her love for dance and hosting the UH Cougar Dolls at her school every year.

With her unwavering dedication and heartfelt teaching, Natalie exemplifies what it means to be a life-changing educator. This week — and every week — we thank her for inspiring the next generation with love, care and a lifelong commitment to learning.