A Houston ISD principal won $35,000 total at the 2026 H-E-B Excellence in Education Awards on May 3.
At a glance
Ruth Peña, who leads Charles H. Milby High School, was one of two principals selected for the honor, according to a May 3 news release from a representative for H-E-B. Peña was awarded a $25,000 grant for Milby High and $10,000 for personal use.
Fourteen winners, across multiple categories, were chosen from all over Texas, according to the release. H-E-B bestowed $480,000 total in grants and cash to educators and schools for the 2026 ceremony.
"At a time when the role of public education is more important than ever, we are proud to recognize these exceptional leaders who are strengthening not only their classrooms, but their communities and the future of our state,” said Winell Herron, H-E-B senior vice president of public affairs, diversity and environmental affairs, via the release.
Three panels of judges narrowed down the 2026 applicants before winners were selected, according to the release.
How did we get here?
H-E-B's Excellence in Education Award winners are selected annually from applicants and nominees throughout the state, according to the news release. The program is designed to honor individuals who excel in the education profession.
Looking ahead
The 2027 Excellence in Education Award applications are now open. Submissions close Sept. 30.
The applications are open to state-certified Texas public school professionals who are currently working, according to the release. Those qualified for awards include:
- Teachers
- Counselors
- Principals
- Early childhood centers
- School boards
- Public school districts
