Lamar CISD Board Wins 2025 H-E-B Excellence in Education Award, Honored for Leadership and Student-Centered Vision
The Lamar Consolidated Independent School District (Lamar CISD) Board of Trustees has been named the 2025 H-E-B Excellence in Education Award winner for Outstanding School Board, earning a $25,000 grant and statewide acclaim for its visionary leadership, community engagement, and commitment to student success.
The announcement came during a vibrant awards ceremony on Sunday, May 4, in Austin, Texas, where H-E-B honored educators and school leaders from across the state. Lamar CISD’s elected board members were joined by Superintendent Dr. Roosevelt Nivens to accept the honor and reflect on the shared mission that fuels their work.
“Our district is growing fast, and it takes an enormous amount of commitment and passion – both for the people who make up our district and for our shared mission to educate students – to be an effective trustee here,” said Dr. Nivens. “Our Lamar CISD school board members are truly elite, and I’m so proud to see their dedication recognized and rewarded.”
Recognized for Excellence in Public Education Leadership
The H-E-B Excellence in Education Awards program is one of the most prestigious education award initiatives in Texas. It celebrates exceptional contributions in public education and highlights the individuals and boards that go above and beyond to serve their communities. Since 2002, the program has awarded over $14 million in funding, with the 2025 cycle distributing $480,000 in grants to teachers, counselors, principals, early childhood centers, and school boards across Texas.
This year, Lamar CISD stood out among dozens of finalists for its comprehensive approach to leadership and educational advocacy. In February, a panel of regional judges visited the district to engage with administrators, staff, parents, and community members, further solidifying Lamar’s case as a statewide leader in education.
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“This recognition for our team reflects all of us – our shared belief that when local communities come together to lead with vision, support our educators, and put students first, great things happen,” said Lamar CISD Board President Zach Lambert during his acceptance speech.
The current Lamar CISD Board of Trustees includes:
- Zach Lambert, President (District 1)
- Jacci Hotzel, Vice President (District 4)
- Jon Welch, Secretary (District 5)
- Mandi Bronsell, Member (District 3)
- Kay Danziger, Member (District 2)
- Suzanne Box, Member (District 7)
- Joe Hubenak, Member (District 6)
Their leadership has guided the district through rapid growth, ensuring that educational quality, fiscal responsibility, and student-centered values remain at the forefront.
A Statewide Celebration of Educators
The 2025 awards ceremony honored more than just Lamar CISD. H-E-B recognized six teachers, two counselors, two principals, one early childhood facility, two school districts, and the Lamar CISD Board with cash prizes and grants. Finalists had previously received $5,000 each earlier in the spring, culminating in statewide selections following in-person evaluations.
“At a time when public school educators face many challenges, it’s critically important that we honor the extraordinary individuals who are inspiring the next generation of Texans,” said Winell Herron, H-E-B Senior Vice President of Public Affairs, Diversity and Environmental Affairs. “Their work not only changes lives – it defines the future of our state.”
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Championing the Future of Texas Education
In his closing remarks, President Lambert reminded attendees of the importance of narrative in public education—emphasizing optimism, pride, and unwavering dedication.
“We hear a lot of noise these days that public schools are failing, but that’s not our story,” Lambert said. “That’s not the story of Lamar CISD, and it’s not the story of so many public schools across Texas. We are proud to serve, proud of our schools, and proud to prove every day that public education still works.”
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.
