H-E-B Announces Finalists for 2025 Excellence in Education Awards

Every year, H-E-B recognizes outstanding educators across Texas through their Excellence in Education Awards program. This year, ten Central Texas educators have been named as finalists for the prestigious awards, as announced in a press release by H-E-B on Friday.

Recognizing Excellence in Education

The H-E-B Excellence in Education Awards aim to honor educators who go above and beyond to serve their students and communities. According to Jill Reynolds, H-E-B public affairs manager, the finalists represent the best of Texas and embody passion, resilience, and dedication.

Central Texas Finalists

The finalists from Central Texas include educators from various school districts, each recognized for their exceptional contributions to education:

• Sara Allen, Cullen Elementary School, Hays CISD, Rising Star Elementary
• Candace Barnes, Sunfield Elementary School, Hays CISD, School Counselor Elementary
• Monica Collins, Pearson Ranch Middle School, Round Rock ISD, Principal Secondary
• Carol Fernandez, Maria Hernandez Elementary School, San Marcos CISD, Lifetime Achievement Elementary
• Wendell Norris Marquez, Lively Middle School, Austin ISD, Leadership Secondary
• Vicki Rowe, Taylor High School, Taylor ISD, Lifetime Achievement Secondary
• Dr. Amy Sharp, River Place Elementary School, Leander ISD, Principal Elementary
• Karen Terry, Bertha Sadler Means Young Women’s Leadership Academy, Austin ISD, School Counselor Secondary
• Gloria Ramirez Vega, Pflugerville Elementary School, Pflugerville ISD, Leadership Elementary
• Kylee Zapalac, La Grange High School, La Grange ISD, Rising Star Secondary

Each finalist was presented with a $1,000 check for themselves, along with additional funds for their respective schools. The awards ceremony for the 2025 H-E-B Excellence in Education Awards is set to take place at the Hilton Austin on May 4.

Nominations for 2026 Awards

If you know a deserving educator who deserves recognition, nominations for the 2026 H-E-B Excellence in Education Awards are now open online. All state-certified public school professionals currently working in Texas are eligible to be nominated.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. How are finalists selected for the H-E-B Excellence in Education Awards?

Finalists are chosen based on their exceptional contributions to education, as well as their dedication to serving students and communities.

2. What do finalists receive as part of the awards?

Each finalist receives a $1,000 check for themselves, along with additional funds for their schools.

3. When and where will the 2025 H-E-B Excellence in Education Awards ceremony be held?

The awards ceremony will take place at the Hilton Austin on May 4.

4. Can anyone nominate an educator for the H-E-B Excellence in Education Awards?

Yes, nominations are open to all state-certified public school professionals currently working in Texas.

5. How can I nominate an educator for the 2026 H-E-B Excellence in Education Awards?

You can nominate an educator online through the H-E-B Excellence in Education Awards website.