For Immediate Release
11/15/2022
Mission CISD volunteer Awarded the 2022 Heroes for Children Award
Mission, Texas – A Mission CISD parent volunteer from Alton Memorial Jr. High School (AMJH) received the State Board of Education Heroes for Children Award. The honoree, Esmeralda Guerrero has been a volunteer with the district for seven years and is currently president of the District Advisory Committee, leading parent meetings. She was among 15 recipients in the state of Texas recognized for their excellence in advocacy for education. The State Board of Education Member for District 2, Ruben Cortez presented the award to Esmeralda at a special presentation at AMJH.
“It’s truly an honor to be recognized, and to be given this award,” states Esmeralda. “When you lend your time and skills without expecting anything in return, know that people are watching and acknowledging your efforts. I’m thankful to everyone who made this possible.”
Esmeralda was in a pool of many candidates that were submitted for consideration. State Board of Education Member, Ruben Cortez saw the ranking criteria and shared that she won by many points ahead of the other candidates.
“Very clearly this woman has shown remarkable strength of volunteerism and activism in giving back selflessly of her time in service of her school district,” Mr. Cortez said. “For the last couple of years, we had to present this award at the recipient's home so it’s refreshing to be here surrounded by Esmeralda’s family and friends to recognize her the way she ought to be recognized.”
Mission CISD Superintendent of Schools, Dr. Carol G. Perez shares her appreciation for all the work that Esmeralda does including serving as a member of the Bilingual Parent Committee. “Her dedication and passion for volunteering is an inspiration to others who have joined the parent volunteer program.” Dr. Perez shared. “We are appreciative of all the work she does and all the support that she provides to the district”.
2022’s honorees have given a combined 233 years of service to Texas public school systems and their communities. The Board has recognized 510 Texas since the award’s inception.
“The selfless acts of service performed by these award winners have significantly contributed to the betterment of Texas public schools,” said SBOE chair Dr. Keven Ellis. “The State Board of Education is honored to recognize these individuals with this award. I know they will continue to inspire not only our students but also to inspire others to volunteer and support our public schools.”
Established in 1994, the Heroes for Children Award is designed to highlight the many outstanding volunteers whose efforts represent significant contributions to public school systems in Texas. Each year, the 15-member SBOE recognizes one Hero from each of their districts.
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