November 6, 2026 - Three Comal ISD teachers were surprised with $500 grants by Valero Alamo Bowl and PNC Bank as part of the College Football Playoff Foundation’s Extra Yard for Teachers program.
Lauren Matalon from Bulverde Middle School, Brandi McKinney from Kinder Ranch Elementary School and Ashley Ramirez from Indian Springs Elementary School are among the 30 San Antonio-area educators being recognized this year for making a lasting impact in their classrooms and communities.
The three were surprised at their campuses with students and colleagues joining the celebrations.
“There are very few moments in life when I have been truly surprised, and this award was definitely one of them,” says Ramirez who has been teaching for 16 years and currently teaches fourth grade. “An award of any kind always feels shared in large part with my team, our administration and our staff.
“I began teaching because I wanted to be part of something greater than myself. As a mother and educator, I believe in the power of what we do and in the impact we are creating together within Comal ISD.”
Besides the $500 grant for classroom resources, each teacher also receives tickets to the 2026 Valero Alamo Bowl and special recognition at the game. This year’s game is scheduled for Tuesday, Dec. 29.
“I love football and sports in general,” says McKinney, who has been teaching for 16 years as well and currently teaches prekindergarten. “I am excited to attend the Alamo Bowl, and I am truly honored to be included. It will be wonderful to watch other teachers be recognized and celebrated as well.”
Education is a second career for McKinney who spent 14 years in the U.S. Air Force. She credits her military experience for any success she has in the classroom.
“I teach because I truly love what I do. I love watching kids grow and knowing that I was just a small part of their journey. I don’t think there is a better career than one where you know you can make a difference in the lives of children.”
For Matalon, the Extra Yard for Teachers honor is validating.
“It makes me feel like I am making a positive impact and that my hard work is being recognized,” says Matalon, who has been teaching for seven years and teaches seventh-grade science. “I teach to help students find things they are interested in, make science engaging and build connections with my students. I am honored to be honored.”
The Extra Yard for Teachers program is part of a national initiative by the College Football Playoff Foundation. The Alamo Bowl started offering the program locally in 2021.
Photo descriptions
-Pictured from left is President/CEO of San Antonio Bowl Association Derrick Fox, PNC Bank Regional President Chris Sherman, Extra Yard for Teachers honoree Ashley Ramirez, Indian Springs Elementary School Principal Diadra Williams, and Comal ISD Superintendent Dr. John E. Chapman III.
-Pictured from left is PNC Bank Regional President Chris Sherman, Extra Yard for Teachers honoree Brandi McKinney, Kinder Ranch Elementary School Principal Laura De La Garza, Comal ISD Superintendent Dr. John E. Chapman III and President/CEO of San Antonio Bowl Association Derrick Fox.
-Pictured from left is PNC Bank Regional President Chris Sherman, Extra Yard for Teachers honoree Lauren Matalon, Bulverde Middle School Principal Mary Stults, Comal ISD Superintendent Dr. John E. Chapman III and President/CEO of San Antonio Bowl Association Derrick Fox.