Hays CISD’s Cece Colbert Honored with Superintendent’s Coin of Excellence at Pfluger Elementary
For families at Pfluger Elementary School in Hays CISD, the strength of a campus often comes down to the educators who show up every day ready to serve students beyond the lesson plan. This week, that commitment was placed front and center as Foundational Learning teacher Cece Colbert received one of the district’s highest staff honors — the Superintendent’s Coin of Excellence.
The recognition highlights more than a single moment. For Pfluger Elementary parents and students, it affirms that the work happening inside classrooms is deeply personal, student-centered, and aligned with Hays CISD’s broader mission to support academic growth and personal development.
A Surprise Recognition at Pfluger Elementary School
On Feb. 25, Hays CISD Superintendent Dr. Eric Wright visited Pfluger Elementary (PES) to personally present Colbert with the Superintendent’s Coin of Excellence during a surprise meeting on campus. Several of her students were present for the celebration, along with Director of Special Services Area 1 Lauren Gomez and Pfluger Elementary Principal Danielle Sandoval.
The Superintendent’s Coin of Excellence is awarded to Hays CISD employees who demonstrate exceptional dedication, leadership, and service to students and colleagues. The honor recognizes staff members who consistently go above and beyond in supporting student success across the district.
For Colbert, who is in the middle of her first year teaching at Hays CISD, the recognition comes early in her tenure — but reflects a strong first impression on campus.
“A Meaningful Difference in Their Lives Every Single Day”
Principal Danielle Sandoval nominated Colbert for the accolade, citing her commitment to students and her collaborative spirit among staff.
In her nomination, Sandoval wrote, “She is dedicated to helping her students grow academically and personally, making a meaningful difference in their lives every single day. Ms. Colbert is a true team player who is always willing to lend a helping hand and often steps up without being asked.”
Sandoval also noted that Colbert has a deep love for her students and works diligently to provide them with the best education possible. Her positivity, she shared, is contagious — and her problem-solving skills stand out among her peers.
For families navigating the early years of foundational learning, educators like Colbert play a critical role. Foundational Learning programs support students who may need additional academic or specialized instructional assistance, helping ensure they build the skills necessary for long-term success.
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Why This Recognition Matters in Hays CISD
Hays CISD serves a rapidly growing region of Central Texas, with campuses like Pfluger Elementary supporting diverse student populations and evolving community needs. Recognizing educators through honors like the Superintendent’s Coin of Excellence reinforces the district’s commitment to high-quality instruction and student-centered support.
For parents searching for information about Pfluger Elementary School, Hays CISD teacher recognition, or how districts honor exceptional educators, this award serves as a reminder that behind every successful campus are teachers investing deeply in their students’ academic and personal growth.
Moments like these also strengthen school culture. When students witness their teacher being honored, they see firsthand that dedication, teamwork, and compassion matter.
Building Community Through Excellence
While awards are symbolic, the daily work behind them is tangible — lesson plans carefully prepared, individualized support provided, and encouragement offered when students need it most.
In her first year at Hays CISD, Cece Colbert has already left a mark at Pfluger Elementary. Her recognition by Superintendent Dr. Eric Wright and district leadership reflects the kind of educator many families hope their children encounter: committed, collaborative, and consistently focused on helping students succeed.
As Hays CISD continues to grow, celebrations like this help reinforce a shared community identity — one built around educators who step up without being asked and who work quietly but powerfully to make a difference.
Way to go, Cece.
Stay tuned to My Neighborhood News for continued coverage of Hays CISD and the educators shaping the future of our community.
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.
