Hays CISD Teacher Keke Powell Named 2026 H-E-B Excellence in Education Finalist, Earns Statewide Recognition
For Hays CISD families, a familiar classroom face is now being celebrated across Texas—and it’s a moment that reflects more than individual achievement. It’s a reminder of the kind of educators shaping the future of the district’s youngest learners every day.
Keke Powell, a second-grade teacher at Sunfield Elementary, has been named a finalist in the 2026 H-E-B Excellence in Education Awards, placing her among just 50 educators selected from more than 2,000 nominees statewide. For families in Hays CISD, that recognition highlights the strength of the district’s classrooms and the people leading them.
A Teacher’s Impact Felt Beyond the Classroom
Powell’s journey to this statewide recognition has been years in the making. She was previously named an H-E-B Rising Star semi-finalist in 2022 and advanced to finalist status in 2024—demonstrating a consistent trajectory of excellence in teaching and student engagement.
Now, as a 2026 finalist, her work at Sunfield Elementary is being recognized at one of the highest levels for Texas educators.
Beyond the H-E-B recognition, Powell was also recently honored by the Texas State Teachers Association (TSTA) with the Leaders for Tomorrow Award during its House of Delegates meeting in Austin. The House of Delegates serves as TSTA’s highest decision-making body, making the recognition particularly meaningful within the education community.
For local families, these honors reflect the kind of dedication happening inside classrooms every day—where early learning experiences can shape confidence, academic growth, and long-term success.
What the H-E-B Excellence in Education Awards Mean for Texas Schools
The H-E-B Excellence in Education Awards is one of the largest and most respected education recognition programs in Texas. Since its launch in 2002, the program has awarded nearly $15 million to teachers, counselors, principals, and school communities across the state.
Each year, the program highlights educators who go above and beyond—not just in academics, but in building relationships, supporting communities, and creating meaningful learning environments.
As part of the 2026 program:
- Teacher finalists, including Powell, have already received $1,000 personally and an additional $1,000 for their schools.
- Finalists will now compete for top statewide honors, with winners receiving up to $25,000 for themselves and additional grants for their campuses.
- A total of $480,000 in cash awards and grants will be distributed at the upcoming ceremony.
Winners will be announced May 3 at the H-E-B Excellence in Education Awards ceremony at the Marriott Marquis Houston.
Why This Matters for Hays CISD Families
For parents and students in Hays CISD, recognition like this goes beyond a single award—it speaks to the quality of education happening across the district.
Teachers like Powell represent:
- Strong foundational learning in early grades
- Consistent investment in student success
- A culture of excellence within Hays CISD schools
In communities like Sunfield and across the district, early elementary educators play a critical role in literacy development, social growth, and long-term academic confidence. Recognition at the state level helps validate what many families already experience firsthand.
It also reinforces the district’s ability to attract and retain high-quality educators—an important factor for families considering schools, homebuyers evaluating neighborhoods, and the broader growth of the Hays CISD community.
A Broader Moment for Public Education in Texas
H-E-B’s continued investment in public education—donating more than $12 million annually to education initiatives—highlights a growing statewide focus on supporting teachers and strengthening schools.
Programs like the Excellence in Education Awards not only celebrate individual educators but also shine a light on the importance of public education systems that serve communities across Texas.
For Hays CISD, Powell’s recognition places the district among a statewide network of educators who are helping shape the future—one classroom at a time.
What Happens Next
All 2026 finalists, including Powell, will advance to the final round of judging ahead of the May 3 awards ceremony. Winners will be announced during the statewide event, where top honors and additional funding will be distributed.
For now, Hays CISD families have a reason to celebrate close to home—knowing one of their own is being recognized among the best educators in Texas.
As the school year continues and graduation season approaches, moments like this offer a meaningful reminder: behind every successful student is a teacher who made a difference. And in Hays CISD, that difference is being recognized across the state.
Stay connected with My Neighborhood News for more updates on student achievements and community milestones for Hays Consolidated ISD.
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.