Two-minute impact
MISD is one of three finalists in the small-district category with fewer than 10,000 students enrolled. TISD is one of five finalists in the large district category with more than 10,000 students enrolled.
The winning large district will receive $100,000 with the small district winning $50,000, according to a Jan. 16 TISD news release. According to H-E-B, the awards are designed to honor outstanding public schools based on:
- Innovative programs
- Parent and community involvement
- Staff professional development opportunities
MISD Superintendent Mark Ruffin said in a Jan. 16 news release the nomination is an honor.
“In MISD, we talk a lot about maximizing the impact we have on our students, our community and our people,” Ruffin said via the release. “H-E-B is a perfect example of a company that maximizes their impact on communities all across Texas. Their commitment to supporting public education is inspiring and is evident in their Excellence in Education Awards. ... Through this process, we get to shine a light on our people and highlight the work they do that makes a meaningful impact every day.”
TISD Superintendent Martha Salazar-Zamora said that district officials are humbled and honored by the recognition.
“This recognition is a true testament to our commitment to high levels of learning, fostering innovation, building strong community connections and investing in the continuous growth of our teachers and staff,” Salazar-Zamora said via the news release. “We will continue to remain focused on creating endless opportunities for students as we know they will ‘lead in creating the future."
Stay tuned
According to both news releases, a panel of judges will visit each district and school board to tour the campuses and speak with administrators, staff, parents and community members to determine the overall statewide winners.
State winners will be announced at the H-E-B Excellence in Education Awards Ceremony on May 4 in Austin.
Cassandra Jenkins contributed to this report.
