Cy-Fair Educational Foundation to Celebrate 100 Honorees at 29th Annual Salute to the Stars Gala
The Cy-Fair Educational Foundation (CFEF) is set to host its 29th Annual Salute to the Stars Gala on Thursday, March 5, 2026, at the Berry Center in Cypress, Texas, recognizing the dedication of 100 Cypress-Fairbanks ISD educators and staff. This beloved annual event, deeply rooted in the Cy-Fair community, pays tribute to the district's Teachers of the Year, as well as paraeducators and support staff who have demonstrated exceptional commitment during the 2025–2026 academic year.
Since its inception in 1998, Salute to the Stars has become a hallmark celebration for CFISD, raising more than $4.3 million for scholarships and professional development grants. The vision for the event was first inspired by former CFISD Superintendent Richard Berry, in partnership with Pam Scott, Director of Partners in Education, and inaugural gala co-chairs John Fox and Kim Watson. The event was designed to shine a spotlight on exemplary teachers while generating support for educational advancement in the district.
This year’s honorees include 96 teachers, two paraeducators, and two support staff members, each selected by their campus principal or supervisor for their outstanding impact. The celebration will begin at 6:00 p.m. with a welcoming by a CFISD high school drill team, followed by hors d’oeuvres prepared by Culinary Arts students from across CFISD high schools, the return of the crowd-favorite Razzle Dazzle Raffle, and a variety of other engaging activities.
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Guests can look forward to an evening of dinner, entertainment, cash prize drawings, and a bid board, culminating in a luxury trip giveaway generously sponsored by Cy-Fair Federal Credit Union, the Gala Underwriter. PBK returns as the Academy Award Superintendent Sponsor, The Howard Hughes Corporation supports as the Teacher of the Year Friends & Family Sponsor, and Community Impact serves as the Media Sponsor.
Each Teacher of the Year honoree will be celebrated not only for their classroom excellence but also for the meaningful difference they make in their students’ lives. Paraeducators and support staff are equally recognized for their vital roles in maintaining a strong educational environment across the district’s campuses.
The Cy-Fair Educational Foundation, established in 1970, continues to support the next generation through college scholarships for graduating seniors and staff development grants. As of 2026, CFEF has awarded more than $13.4 million in scholarships, with nearly $1 million slated to be distributed in June alone. With 12 high schools in the district and enrollment on the rise, the foundation’s mission to empower students through higher education has never been more critical.
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As the district grows, so does the need for community support. CFEF encourages local businesses, families, and individuals to get involved—whether by sponsoring the gala, contributing to the foundation, or becoming endowment partners. Those interested in making a difference can learn more or donate by visiting TheCFEF.org or reaching out to Marie Holmes at Marie@TheCFEF.org or 281-370-0144.
Event Details
Salute to the Stars Gala
- Date: Thursday, March 5, 2026
- Berry Center: 8877 Barker Cypress Rd, Cypress, TX 77433
- Doors Open: 6:00 p.m. | Event Begins: 7:00 p.m.
- Cocktail/Business Attire
With a legacy built on uplifting educators and students alike, the Salute to the Stars Gala continues to reflect the heart of the Cy-Fair community—where excellence in education is not only recognized but actively supported.
Tiffany Krenek has been on the My Neighborhood News team since August 2021. She is passionate about curating and sharing content that enriches the lives of our readers in a personal, meaningful way. A loving mother and wife, Tiffany and her family live in the West Houston/Cypress region.
