State Board of Education Celebrates 2026 Student Heroes
AUSTIN, Texas – July 8, 2026 – The State Board of Education (SBOE) recognizes the 2026 Student Heroes, an inspiring group of Texas public school students who demonstrate exceptional character, kindness and service to others.
These students have engaged in numerous acts of service, from supporting students with disabilities to mentoring younger students and launching nonprofits focused on mental health wellness. These students have shown remarkable compassion and leadership in their respective communities.
“The 2026 Student Heroes remind us that leadership begins with a willingness to serve others,” said SBOE Chairman Aaron Kinsey. “These outstanding students are making a lasting difference in their schools and communities through selfless service, and the State Board of Education is proud to recognize their extraordinary example for all Texans.”
The SBOE adopted a resolution in their honor during the June general meeting.
Learn more about the 2026 recipients below:
District 1 – Jaylin Esparza
Jaylin Esparza, a senior at Riverside High School in Ysleta ISD, serves her school through Student Council, cheerleading and three years as wrestling team manager. She also volunteers with her church’s “Kiddos” program, supporting students with special needs. Her commitment to service, school pride and uplifting others reflects her strong character and meaningful involvement.
District 2 – Liam Toledo
Liam Toledo, a freshman at Science Academy of South Texas in South Texas ISD, founded a community library that provides books to local families. He funds the library and supports food bank donations through a cotton candy business while also donating books and school supplies throughout the region. His efforts expand literacy, address community needs and inspire other young people to serve.
District 3 – Lynda Guzman
Lynda Guzman, a junior at Harmony Science Academy-San Antonio, volunteers with Compass Connections, supporting 52 young girls as a mentor, tutor and advocate. Her selflessness has had a profound impact, empowering these young students with confidence and hope for their futures.
District 4 – Farmata Lo
Farmata Lo, a junior at Blanson Career and Technical Education (CTE) High School in Aldine ISD, founded the Ether Initiative to improve healthcare experiences for neurodiverse patients through thoughtfully designed care kits that include communication and sensory support tools. Her compassionate work addresses important healthcare accessibility needs for families.
District 5 – Asvini Thivakaran
Asvini Thivakaran, a junior at McNeil High School in Round Rock ISD, founded Electrify Your Thoughts, a nonprofit that provides mentorship and science education for students in Title I schools. She also leads environmental initiatives, including a battery recycling program that has kept more than 100,000 batteries out of landfills. Through mentorship, advocacy and education, she inspires students to pursue science and sustainability.
District 6 – Lucas Wang
Lucas Wang, a freshman at Taylor High School in Katy ISD, co-founded Music No Boundaries, a nonprofit that provides free music education to underserved children through more than 10 chapters worldwide. He also volunteers his time teaching violin to beginners, creating meaningful opportunities for young people to build confidence and skills through music.
District 7 – Sloane Rooney
Sloane Rooney, a 5th grade student at Port Neches Intermediate in Port Neches Groves ISD, demonstrates leadership through school service projects and volunteer work with The Arc, where she supports individuals with special needs and builds meaningful, compassionate connections. Her kindness, fundraising efforts and encouragement inspire others to serve their communities.
District 8 – Zach Casas
Zach Casas, a senior at Hargrave High School in Huffman ISD, founded the Pond to Purpose project, securing more than $70,000 to create an outdoor learning and wellness space benefiting both students and the Huffman community. He also serves in multiple FAA and student leadership roles, reflecting a strong commitment to service and lasting community impact.
District 9 – Jayden West
Jayden West, a senior at Zavalla High School in Zavalla ISD, serves his community as a volunteer firefighter while supporting local initiatives, including food bank services, C.A.S.T. for Kids, holiday events, and community celebrations. His dedication to helping others has made him a respected role model in Zavalla.
District 10 – Shreyas Ambati
Shreyas Ambati, a freshman at Rouse High School in Leander ISD, founded the Smilebox Foundation, a nonprofit that has provided 1,500 activity kits to children in hospitals and child welfare organizations. Expanding his mission internationally, he has also donated 2,000 activity kits to children in India and Sri Lanka. Through community fundraising, Shreyas continues to grow the foundation's reach, demonstrating outstanding compassion and a commitment to helping children facing difficult circumstances.
District 11 – Emily Doty
Emily Doty, a senior at Cleburne High School in Cleburne ISD, founded S.P.L.A.S.H. (Special Populations Learning Aquatic Safety and Health), a research-based initiative promoting water safety for children with autism and intellectual disabilities. By partnering with local organizations and developing lasting educational resources, she has strengthened community awareness and improved safety for vulnerable families.
District 12 – Mary Grace Gibbons
Mary Grace Gibbons, a junior at Paris High School in Paris ISD, founded “Mr. Marvin’s Market,” a community refrigerator program that allows students to share unopened food, reducing waste while helping address student food insecurity. Through partnerships with school staff and local organizations, she has expanded food access on campus and created a sustainable culture of compassion and service.
District 13 – Hailey Smith
Hailey Smith, a senior at Yvonne Ewell Townview Center in Dallas ISD, volunteers with organizations that provide meals to families and elderly residents while leading service projects throughout her community. She also founded The Black Doll Project to promote positive self-image and representation for young Black girls, with plans to expand the initiative through mentoring.
District 14 – Evelyn Hatfield
Evelyn Hatfield, an 8th grader at Blalack Middle School in Carrollton Farmers Branch ISD, created accessible assistive technology resources for students with dyslexia through her Girl Scout Silver Award project, Navigating Dyslexia: Tools for Empowering Teachers and Students. By developing training materials and leading presentations for students, families and educators, she has improved awareness and support across her district.
District 15 – Bergan Pinkley
Bergan Pinkley, a senior at Big Spring High School in Big Spring ISD, has strengthened her school and community through service projects, including an annual Valentine’s card initiative for nursing home residents, and as the chair of the Pride and Patriotism Committee, leads appreciation efforts for veterans, first responders and military members. Her leadership and commitment to service continue to inspire school spirit and community engagement.
To learn more about the Student Heroes Award and view past recipients, visit the State Board of Education’s webpage at sboe.texas.gov/state-board-of-education/sboe-awards/student-heroes-award.
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