SBOE Honors the 2025 Heroes for Children Award Recipients
(Top row, left to right): District 15 Susan Perez-Lubbock ISD; District 14 Adrian Musquiz-Waco ISD; District 13 Juan Narvaez-Harmony Sch. of Innovation, Grand Prairie; District 12 Jenna Maynard-Plano ISD; District 11 Marissa Villafranca-Harmony Science, Fort Worth; District 10 Jennifer Noonan-Meridian World School; District 9 Arnecia Robinson-Harmony Sch. of Innovation, Garland
(Bottom row, left to right): District 1 Elizabeth Weaver-Anthony ISD; District 2 Xochtil Garcia-Harmony Sch. of Innovation, Brownsville (not in picture); District 3 Ysela Gonzalez-Harmony Sch. of Science, San Antonio; District 4 Ariana Sanches-Galena Park ISD; District 5 Courtenay Kehl-Wimberley ISD (not in picture); District 6 Mary Adegbesan-Houston ISD; District 7 Amberly Craft-Little Cypress-Mauriceville CISD; District 8 Cassandra Posey-Waller ISD
AUSTIN, Texas – September 22, 2025 – The Texas State Board of Education (SBOE) announced the 2025 Heroes for Children award recipients, honoring outstanding individuals whose dedication is transforming the lives of Texas public school students.
The Heroes for Children Award celebrates 15 individuals who go above and beyond to support students, educators and their communities. This inspiring group of Texans have engaged in various acts of service from advocating for educational improvements and mentoring students to creating welcoming educational environments and leading parent-teacher organizations.
“The 2025 Heroes for Children award winners embody what it means to be a beacon of excellence,” said SBOE Chairman, Aaron Kinsey. “Students in Texas are blessed to have these extraordinary individuals championing their success. Their passion and commitment support students and educators and strengthen communities.”
Each year, the board recognizes one inspiring individual from each member district. Read a brief description of the 2025 award recipients below:
District 1: Elizabeth Weaver
Elizabeth Weaver has devoted countless hours supporting students and teachers across Anthony ISD. From becoming a certified vision and hearing screener to coaching UIL academic teams, leading snack fundraisers and helping with community food drives, her volunteerism touches nearly every aspect of school life. She also serves on the Stronger Connections Grant Advisory Committee to support systemic change in creating a safe learning environment.
Elizabeth Weaver was nominated by Oscar Troncoso.
District 2: Xochitl Garcia
For eight years, Xochitl Garcia has been a proud parent driven by a desire to support her child’s education. She has helped organize celebrations, fundraisers and after-school activities while also supporting classroom events and student performances. Through her service, Xochitl has created a welcoming school environment where all families feel empowered to get involved.
Xochitl Garcia was nominated by Vanessa Torres-Soto.
District 3: Ysela Gonzalez
Ysela Gonzalez is a driving force for parent engagement and student success. As PTO President, she has led major fundraisers that have contributed thousands of dollars to strengthen the school community. Her service spans multiple campuses and beyond, supporting classroom needs and mentoring student-led projects. She consistently turns students’ interest into action and thoughtfully debriefs with them to promote reflection and growth. Ysela has built a legacy of compassion, dedication and lasting impact for students, staff and families.
Ysela Gonzalez was nominated by Abigail Luna De La Cruz.
District 4: Ariana Sanches
Ariana Sanches is a true testament that parent engagement is a key factor in a student’s success. Ariana volunteered at school events, attended field trips and mobilized more than 20 parents to also join volunteer efforts. Her leadership and commitment have resulted in big changes at the campus she serves. Her compassion and willingness to assist make a true difference.
Ariana Sanches was nominated by Roxanne McCabe.
District 5: Courtenay Kehl
Courtenay Kehl is an invaluable asset to the Wimberley Best Buds program, a vital mentoring initiative that pairs caring adult community members with children in need of positive adult support and role models. Her consistent involvement and compassionate approach have fostered an environment of inclusivity and understanding within the school community. She consistently goes above and beyond, building meaningful relationships and creating opportunities for children to thrive. Her presence enriches the lives of the students she mentors, demonstrating the power of genuine connection and support.
Courtenay Kehl was nominated by Lori Pharis.
District 6: Mary Adegbesan
Mary Adegbesan is a remarkable changemaker whose leadership and volunteerism has positively impacted Houston and beyond. As a nonprofit founder, author and civic advocate, she has empowered thousands of underserved students through college readiness resources, financial aid workshops and accessible computer science education. Her work reflects a deep commitment to opportunity and lasting impact.
Mary Adegbesan was nominated by Theresa Adegbesan.
District 7: Amberly Craft
Amberly Craft is a devoted volunteer whose compassion and service have made a lasting impact on Little Cypress-Mauriceville High School. Over the years, she has generously devoted her time to mentoring students, coordinating campus-wide events and offering daily support wherever it's needed. Her influence extends far beyond the classroom; spearheading initiatives that uplift campus culture and nurture students’ emotional and academic growth. Mrs. Craft’s contributions continue to positively shape lives and strengthen the community.
Amber Craft was nominated by Amber Hawk.
District 8: Cassandra Gonzalez-Posey
Cassandra Gonzalez-Posey has demonstrated unwavering dedication to creating the best possible outcomes for all children. Her volunteer leadership spans a wide array of roles, including Chair of the Student Health Advisory Committee, member of the Long Range Planning Committee, JROTC Booster Club, Book Review Committee, Site-Based Decision Making and Parent Engagement Committee. Beyond the school district, she has also served as a Youth Pastor Search Committee leader and an active 4-H volunteer, embodying a spirit of service that uplifts both education and community.
Cassandra Posey was nominated by Hillary Hickland.
District 9: Arnecia Robinson
Arnecia Robinson has made the Harmony School of Garland her second home, pouring her energy and heart into every corner of campus. As a deeply engaged member of the PTO, she plays a key role in organizing events and cultivating meaningful partnerships with local businesses. Thanks to her outreach, the school has received generous support for spirit days, student rewards and staff appreciation efforts, strengthening the bond between the school and its surrounding community.
Arnecia Robinson was nominated by Claudia Kongamnach.
District 10: Jennifer Noonan
Jennifer Noonan has left an indelible mark on the Meridian school community, most notably through her visionary leadership of the Uniform Exchange program. What began as a table of shirts has grown under her stewardship into a robust initiative that shares over 2,500 uniform pieces annually and diverts thousands of pounds of clothing from landfills. Even as she prepares to pass the baton, Jennifer is ensuring the program’s future by mentoring new leadership, a testament to her thoughtful and enduring impact.
Jennifer Noonan was nominated by Sarah Gardner.
District 11: Marissa Villafranca
Marissa Villafranca has become a vital and uplifting presence in her community through her continual volunteer work. Her service includes front office support, classroom assistance and event coordination. She has been instrumental in initiatives that support student well-being, including managing the school’s clothing closet and organizing themed environments that make school events welcoming and memorable.
Marissa Villafranca was nominated by Stephanie Lucas.
District: 12: Jenna Maynard
Jenna Maynard has been a transformative volunteer in Plano ISD, dedicating her time and energy to students, educators and families. She founded and continues to run the Huffman Food Pantry, ensuring families facing food insecurity have access to nutritious meals. At Huffman Elementary, she played a pivotal role in its transition to an International Baccalaureate (IB) campus, helped establish a thriving PTA and stepped in as a substitute teacher.
Jenna Maynard was nominated by Brittnea Ussery.
District 13: Juan Narvaez
Juan Narvaez’s decision to volunteer was shaped by the influence of his family, his community and seeing students in his community thrive. He is a mentor for teens, helping them navigate challenges while also giving them confidence to achieve their highest potential. He is committed to being a positive role model for the kids in his community and is dedicated to demonstrating the impact of parental and community involvement in fostering student success.
Juan Narvaez was nominated by Natalie Brown McGensey.
District 14: Adrian Musquiz
Adrian Musquiz goes above and beyond to make every child feel celebrated, from monthly birthday treat bags to pizza parties rewarding attendance and milestone achievements. He is also instrumental behind the scenes, serving as PTA Treasurer, organizing staff luncheons and holiday celebrations and volunteering weekly in the front office to keep things running smoothly. Adrian exemplifies what it means to be a partner in education, bringing kindness, creativity, leadership and a contagious spirit of giving to everything he does.
Adrian Musquiz was nominated by Krystal Collier.
District 15: Susan Elaine Perez
Susan Elaine Perez is a passionate advocate for educational excellence who has united families, educators and community members across Texas in pursuit of stronger schools. Through her work, she has empowered hundreds to engage in curriculum reform and civic advocacy. Her leadership has inspired others to take meaningful action to promote high academic standards.
Susan Elaine Perez was nominated by Elisa Perez.