TCTA members among H-E-B Excellence in Education finalists

Three TCTA members are among the state finalists for the 2025 H-E-B Excellence in Education Awards:

• Valerie Paredes of Harlingen Collegiate High School in Harlingen ISD is a finalist in the School Counselor Secondary category.
• Ashley Wright of Annette Gordon-Reed Elementary in Conroe ISD is a finalist in the School Counselor Elementary category.
• Carol Fernandez of Maria Hernandez Elementary School in San Marcos CISD is a finalist in the Lifetime Achievement Elementary category.

“Finalists for the H-E-B Excellence in Education Awards represent the very best of Texas,” said Jill Reynolds, H-E-B public affairs manager. “They embody the passion, resilience, and dedication that make our state great. At H-E-B, we believe every person in Texas counts, and these educators exemplify the profound impact one person can have in shaping the future of our communities and beyond.”

Winners will be announced May 4 during a ceremony that will honor teachers, counselors, principals, school boards, school districts and early education programs.

See the complete list of 2025 finalists here.

Nominations open for 2026

Nominations for the 2026 H-E-B Excellence in Education Awards are now open to all state-certified public school professionals currently working in Texas. Teachers, counselors, principals, early childhood centers, school boards and districts can win cash prizes for their outstanding work. Nominations will close on Sept. 30, 2025. 

Click here to nominate an educator or learn more.