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LeNoir Elementary Teacher Named Finalist for Statewide H-E-B Education Award
The Donna Independent School District is proud to announce that one of its outstanding educators has been recognized at the state level. On February 19th, Ms. Cindy Gonzalez, a dedicated 3rd grade teacher at LeNoir Elementary, received an unforgettable surprise. While she was teaching her students, a team from H-E-B, including their fun-loving mascot H-E-Buddy, walked into her classroom to announce that she is a finalist for the H-E-B Excellence in Education Awards in the Rising Star - Elementary category.
This prestigious honor recognizes outstanding teachers who demonstrate:
• Passion and commitment to the teaching profession • Innovation and creativity in the classroom • Dedication to professional growth and development
Out of the entire state of Texas, Ms. Gonzalez is one of only five finalists in the Rising Star - Elementary category—and the sole representative from South Texas! The other finalists hail from San Antonio, Dallas, Houston, and Central Texas. To celebrate this incredible achievement, she was presented with a $1,000 check for herself and another $1,000 for LeNoir Elementary.
Ms. Gonzalez expressed her excitement and gratitude for the recognition. “I was completely shocked when they walked in to surprise me,” Gonzalez said. “Being selected as a finalist is such an incredible honor. It reaffirms the importance of what we do every day as educators and the impact we have on our students.”
A passionate advocate for student success, Ms. Gonzalez dedicates herself fully to ensuring her students thrive academically and personally. “I give my all each and every day because I truly care about my students. Their success is my top priority, and this recognition serves as a reminder of why I do what I do,” she added.
Donna ISD Superintendent Dr. Angela Dominguez commended Ms. Gonzalez for her commitment to excellence in education. “At Donna ISD, we are committed to fostering an environment where students can achieve their full potential, and Ms. Gonzalez embodies that mission,” Dr. Dominguez said. “Her dedication and passion inspire not only her students but also her colleagues, and we are incredibly proud of her accomplishment.”
Under Dr. Dominguez’s leadership, Donna ISD has gained statewide recognition for its commitment to excellence in education. M. Rivas Primary Discovery Academy was named the best early childhood campus in Texas, receiving the H-E-B Excellence in Education Early Childhood Award. Additionally, the Donna ISD Board of Trustees was honored as one of five state finalists for the H-E-B Excellence in Education Outstanding School Board Award, further highlighting the district’s dedication to student success.
If Ms. Gonzalez wins at the awards ceremony in May, she will receive an additional $5,000 for herself and $5,000 for the campus. “Donna ISD wishes her the very best and will be rooting for her as she represents the district and her campus on this statewide stage,” Dr. Dominguez said.