State Board of Education Celebrates 2024 Heroes for Children Award Recipients
2024 marks the 30th year of recognizing individuals making impactful contributions in Texas public schools
AUSTIN, Texas – September 23, 2024 – The State of Education (SBOE) recognized the 2024 recipients of the Heroes for Children Award at its general meeting September 10-13.
For three decades, the Heroes for Children Award has honored outstanding individuals whose volunteer services have helped shape the futures of public school students in Texas. This inspiring group of Texans have engaged in various acts of service from leading parent-teacher organizations and advocating for educational improvements, to promoting literacy and mentoring students on post-graduation goals.
“As we celebrate 30 years of this distinguished award, we honor the extraordinary service of individuals who have gone above and beyond to support our school systems and uphold our Texas values,” said SBOE Chairman, Aaron Kinsey. “Their efforts remind all of us of the impact that committed individuals can have on the lives of Texas children.”
Learn more about the 2024 recipients below:
District 1: Linda Miner
Linda Miner has been a driving force of community involvement in Socorro ISD, from launching and managing school volunteer programs to organizing supply drives and rallying parents to form a PTA. She has pampered teachers during teacher appreciation week and has been a mastermind behind initiatives providing essential supplies to underprivileged students. Beyond these efforts, Linda has also spearheaded leadership training for high school students. She helped set up college prep seminars, providing guidance on scholarship applications to help students succeed after graduation. Linda now serves as a board member for the Socorro ISD Scholarship Foundation continuing to support students as they pursue higher education. Linda dedicates nearly 500 hours a year to volunteering, reflecting her deep dedication to fostering student success and community engagement.
Linda Miner was nominated by Raquel Tarango.
District 2: Isela Hernandez
Isela Hernandez has served the Mission CISD community for over 12 years and has taken on a multitude of roles to adapt to the needs of the community. Whether it was organizing fundraising events, coordinating classroom activities or leading special projects, she has consistently shown an extraordinary ability to manage diverse tasks with grace and efficiency. Isela’s commitment extends beyond her tangible efforts, inspiring other parents to engage and bridging gaps between families and educators. Her sustained dedication and ability to maintain enthusiasm over more than a decade underscore her extraordinary impact as a volunteer.
Isela Hernandez was nominated by Nancy Villarreal.
District 3: Ryan Lugalia-Hollon
Ryan Lugalia-Hollon has been a dynamic leader in San Antonio’s youth development space since 2015. He led the formation of a community-wide, multi-sector plan called the Future Ready Bexar County Plan. The goal of this plan is to increase postsecondary enrollment in Bexar County. The plan brings together leaders from K-12, postsecondary, youth development nonprofits and other organizations to prepare students for success after graduation. Under his leadership, the Future Ready plan has united over 100 institutions and thousands of leaders in the Bexar County area. This collaborative initiative has also attracted $114 million in funding to support youth programs and drive educational equity.
Ryan Lugalia-Hollon was nominated by Emily Calderon Galdeano.
District 4: Lorena Sandoval
Lorena Sandoval has been a dedicated volunteer at North Shore Elementary School (Galena Park ISD) since 2005. Lorena started volunteering by reading with students and helping chaperone field trips. She learned that the more she volunteered, the more she became aware of the student and family needs within her community. For nearly 20 years, Lorena has worked with the Galena Park ISD community to donate school supplies, mentor staff, students and parents, organized school events and helped connect families with much needed resources within the community. Lorena is not one to seek self-recognition and accolades, but her limitless acts of kindness and willingness to serve within and beyond the walls of school buildings for the sake of children is what makes her deserving of this award.
Lorena Sandoval was nominated by Carmela Garcia.
District 5: Zakaria Kouloughli
Zakaria Kouloughli’s volunteer journey is deeply rooted in his personal experiences and appreciation for the positive influence that dedicated mentors can have on young minds. This realization has driven him to become a pillar of support and guidance for countless children in the Pflugerville community. Zakaria saw a need at his daughter’s school and stepped in to help serve as a volleyball coach, recognizing the importance of extracurricular activities for student development. Beyond coaching, Zakaria lends a helping hand with various school activities and finds great joy giving back to his community.
Zakaria Kouloughli was nominated by Zeliha Celiker.
District 6: Batool Hassan
Batool Hassan has made a remarkable impact as the president of the PTO at Harmony Science Academy – Sugar Land. Managing a full-time job and caring for her twin boys, Batool exemplifies dedication and resilience. Her efforts range from organizing teacher appreciation initiatives and memorable family events to hands-on support at school events. Batool also keeps the parents updated on school closures, events and volunteer shoutouts to encourage volunteering and parent participation. With her keen ability to foster collaboration and inspire others, she leads by example, rallying parents, teachers and students alike to work towards common goals that benefit the entire school system. Batool’s unwavering commitment to excellence shines through in everything she does.
Batool Hassan was nominated by Kajal Nagrani.
District 7: Lorena Garza
Lorena Garza has dedicated over three decades to supporting Texas children. Her selfless devotion has become a cornerstone of countless lives, fostering a positive and nurturing environment tailored to individual needs. She has helped organized clubs at several schools to offer guidance, support and a sense of belonging to every student who participates. Known for her proactive approach, she has engaged in crisis support, offering hope and essential aid like food and water during times of need and support to families in her community. By investing time and resources in education, Lorena is shaping the next generation of thinkers, leaders and compassionate individuals. Lorena believes that by investing in the lives of young people, we invest in the future, ensuring that they have the tools and opportunities they need to succeed.
Lorena Garza was nominated by Rocky Malloy.
District 8: Holly McMichael
Holly McMichael is a distinguished advocate for literacy, devoting her time to improve student outcomes for elementary school students in Huntsville ISD. A Huntsville High School graduate and former teacher, Holly founded the non-profit organization “A Time 2 Read,” driven by her passion for education and deep understanding of the challenges students face in reading proficiency. Through her organization, she has implemented impactful literacy programs, including personalized tutoring, book distributions and the Summer Backpack Drive to combat learning loss during school breaks. Holly's leadership extends to fostering collaborations with local churches, businesses and civic clubs, amplifying the reach and effectiveness of her initiatives. Her annual 5K Fun Run raises awareness and support for literacy, engaging the community in her mission. Holly is currently working with four elementary schools, where her efforts continue to make a difference in the lives of students.
Holly McMichael was nominated by Paul Trevino.
District 9: Ashlea Longenecker
Ashlea Longenecker has made a remarkable impact at O.P. Norman Jr. High School (Kaufman ISD) by founding and leading a parent volunteer group. Ashlea has been instrumental in building effective partnerships between parents and the school. She established a social media forum for parent communication, organized monthly staff appreciation events and served on the campus improvement committee. Her dedication to building and maintaining supportive relationships between parents and staff has greatly contributed to the school's success. Ashlea has ensured the continuation of the volunteer group by mentoring new leaders. Her efforts have significantly enhanced the Kaufman ISD community.
Ashlea Longenecker was nominated by Maegan McNeely.
District 10: Nikki Chaffin
Nikki Chaffin exemplifies the spirit of dedication and leadership through her impactful volunteer work in Elkhart ISD. Over the past several years, Nikki has transformed the educational experience for students at Elkhart Elementary and Intermediate schools. She founded the PTO, which has led to enhanced student activities such as STEAM labs, career fairs and family events. Nikki has also participated in parent discussion panels with the superintendent. Her efforts to support and advocate for students reflect her deep belief in investing in their futures. Her commitment to fostering a positive and enriching school environment demonstrates the true spirit of heroism.
Nikki Chaffin was nominated by Susan Trim.
District 11: Donna Dickinson
Donna Dickinson has been an exceptional volunteer in Weatherford ISD for over 30 years. Her dedication goes beyond her own children’s education, making a lasting impact on the schools and the community. From serving on PTAs and booster clubs to playing a vital role in the Weatherford ISD Education Foundation, Donna has always supported students and teachers. Her contributions include volunteering at the annual school supply drive, revamping the Kangaroo Stadium Spirit Store into a thriving enterprise run by Career and Technical Education students and helping establish a resource room for students in need. Throughout the years, Donna has created her own legacy with Weatherford ISD as a faithful and dedicated volunteer.
Donna Dickinson was nominated by Charlotte LaGrone.
District 12: Kasey Havens
Kasey Havens has been a volunteer in Lovejoy ISD for over 15 years. Kasey has served in over 20 different positions supporting students, teachers and the community of Lovejoy ISD. As the leader of multiple PTOs and booster clubs, Kasey has modeled the importance of parental involvement and collaboration. Kasey’s impact extends beyond her roles. She mentors other volunteers and leads impactful initiatives like the “Shattered Dreams” program, which educates students on the dangers of intoxicated and distracted driving. This program brings together students, parents, staff and first responders in the community. Kasey’s dedication and enthusiasm is exemplified through her service as an ambassador between the schools, district and community.
Kasey Havens was nominated by Katie Kordel.
District 13: Shelonda Weaver
Shelonda Weaver has been a pillar of the DeSoto ISD community for over 30 years, volunteering countless hours to support students, staff and families. She helped raise $47,000 for scholarship funds, helped revitalize a golf program for students and has served in several leadership positions to help rally parents to become more involved in their children’s education. She became a member of a parent advisory group and helped develop a strategic plan to help bridge the gap between home and school, ensuring parents have the resources needed to be a part of their children’s academic journey. Her ability to rally parents, lead with positivity and empower others had made a lasting impact on the entire district.
Shelonda Weaver was nominated by Usamah Rodgers.
District 14: Jennifer Perry
Jennifer Perry has dedicated 22 years of service to the Lewisville ISD community. One of her many remarkable contributions has been her role in hosting school board forums. These forums have provided a platform for open dialogue with parents, educators and the community about the future of schools in the area. She has also helped shape policies and initiatives that prioritize the well-being and success of students. Her mentorship has empowered countless individuals to step up and contribute, creating a ripple effect of positive change that extends far beyond her immediate reach. Through her eloquence and passion, she has raised awareness, mobilized support and ignited a collective commitment to the betterment of Lewisville ISD.
Jennifer Perry was nominated by Suzanne Danhof.
District 15: Shanda Hasse
Shanda Hasse is an advocate for high quality education, dedicating her time to making sure that every child receives a strong educational foundation. Shanda has been instrumental in bringing together parents and community members to address the needs of students to improve student success and ensure that Texas educational standards are being met in her community. She understands the importance of providing every student with the tools they need to succeed. Shanda’s service has strengthened community ties and contributed to a more engaged community for education.
Shanda Hasse was nominated by Nathan Hasse.
###