Resolution Honoring the 2024 Heroes for Children Award Recipients

R E S O L U T I O N

WHEREAS the State Board of Education has honored outstanding school volunteers with the Heroes for Children award for 30 years, recognizing outstanding individuals whose selfless volunteer efforts have positively impacted Texas public school students; and

WHEREAS members of the State Board of Education reviewed nominations and selected 15 outstanding volunteers from across the state to receive the 2024 Heroes for Children Award; and

WHEREAS Linda Miner has devoted nearly 500 hours a year to Socorro Independent School District (ISD), leading volunteer programs that provide essential resources and leadership training for students. She has demonstrated an unwavering commitment to fostering student success and community engagement; and

WHEREAS Isela Hernandez has demonstrated outstanding service in Mission Consolidated ISD for over 12 years. She has organized fundraising events and classroom activities, inspiring other parents to become engaged to continue bridging gaps between families and educators; and

WHEREAS Ryan Lugalia-Hollon has led youth development efforts in San Antonio since 2015, including the creation of the Future Ready Bexar County Plan, uniting over 100 institutions to improve postsecondary enrollment and educational equity, and securing $114 million in funding for youth programs; and

WHEREAS Lorena Sandoval has been a dedicated volunteer at North Shore Elementary School in Galena Park ISD for nearly 20 years, providing mentorship, organizing events, and connecting families with essential resources, all while humbly serving her community with boundless acts of kindness; and

WHEREAS Zakaria Kouloughli has been a constant source of support in Pflugerville, coaching volleyball and assisting in various school activities, while serving as a role model and mentor to countless young minds through his dedication to fostering a sense of community; and

WHEREAS Batool Hassan Batool Hassan has shown exceptional leadership as Parent-Teacher Organization (PTO) president, managing events, initiatives, and communication while inspiring others to collaborate towards enhancing the school environment; and  

WHEREAS Lorena Garza has devoted over three decades to supporting Texas children, providing guidance, crisis support, and fostering a positive environment in her community through Bible clubs and various initiatives that nurture student development; and

WHEREAS Holly McMichael has significantly impacted literacy outcomes in Huntsville ISD through her non-profit organization, “A Time 2 Read,” which offers tutoring, book distributions, and community engagement. Holly continues to lead initiatives that foster a love for reading among students; and

WHEREAS Ashlea Longenecker has been instrumental in building partnerships between parents and O.P. Norman Jr. High School, enhancing communication, and ensuring the continuity of volunteer efforts; and has strengthened parent engagement in support of the school's mission; and

WHEREAS Nikki Chaffin has led transformative volunteer efforts at Elkhart ISD, founding the PTO and supporting student activities and educational initiatives; and continues to create meaningful opportunities for family and community involvement in education; and

WHEREAS Donna Dickinson has dedicated over 30 years to supporting Weatherford ISD through various volunteer roles, including enhancing the Career and Technical Education program and establishing a student resource room; and has been a steadfast advocate for student success across the district; and  

WHEREAS Kasey Havens has served Lovejoy ISD for over 15 years, leading multiple PTOs and booster clubs, mentoring other volunteers, and advocating for student safety through programs like “Shattered Dreams”; and remains a committed volunteer leader dedicated to fostering a safe and supportive environment for students; and

WHEREAS Shelonda Weaver has been a community leader in DeSoto ISD for over 30 years, raising funds for scholarships, revitalizing programs, and bridging the gap between home and school; and has remained a driving force for positive change and student achievement; and

WHEREAS Jennifer Perry has served Lewisville ISD for 22 years, fostering open dialogue and community engagement through school board forums and policy advocacy; and continues to inspire others to actively participate in educational decision-making; and

WHEREAS Shanda Hasse has been an advocate for quality education, bringing together parents and community members to improve student success and meet Texas educational standards; and has remained committed to promoting educational excellence in her community; now, therefore, be it

RESOLVED, that the State Board of Education recognizes these outstanding individuals as Heroes for Children and thanks them for their years of volunteer service in their local public schools and communities.

WITNESS our signatures this 13th day of September, two thousand and twenty-four, in Austin, Texas.


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    Aaron Kinsey, Chair                                 Pat Hardy, Secretary