In true Texas-sized fashion, H-E-B once again proved why it's more than just a grocery giant—it’s a cornerstone of community upliftment. On Sunday, May 4, in the heart of Downtown Austin, the 2025 H-E-B Excellence in Education Awards lit up the city with inspiration, recognition, and a thunderous round of applause for the unsung heroes of our classrooms—teachers, counselors, principals, and school leaders.

This year, 68 outstanding finalists gathered with pride and passion, joined by educators, civic champions, and keynote speaker Admiral William H. McRaven, whose words struck a resounding chord about leadership, legacy, and learning. The event culminated in a heartfelt celebration that awarded a whopping $480,000 in cash and grants to educators and institutions who shape the future of Texas—one student at a time. 

 Winell Herron at the Saluting the Leaders of Texas Education
 

Houston Educators Among Texas’ Best

Houston, home to some of the most innovative and resilient classrooms in the state, had much to celebrate. From local teachers named finalists to counselors whose compassionate leadership is changing lives in underserved neighborhoods, Houston’s presence was both proud and powerful.

These awards aren’t just ceremonial—they’re transformational. Winning teachers received between $5,000 and $25,000 personally, along with matching grants for their schools. Principals walked away with up to $25,000 to reinvest in school culture and leadership, while counselors and entire school districts received funding to elevate mental health, academic access, and student support systems. 

A Legacy of Giving: H-E-B’s Two-Decade Commitment

Since the program’s launch in 2002, H-E-B has invested more than $14 million in Texas education. Why? Because in the words of Winell Herron, H-E-B’s Senior Vice President of Public Affairs, Diversity and Environmental Affairs:

“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. Their work not only changes lives—it defines the future of our state.”

That Texas-sized commitment is what makes H-E-B stand apart—not just as a grocer, but as a generational partner in education.

 H-E-B Honors Texas Educators Awards
 

Award Categories Designed to Empower All Stages of Educational Leadership

The 2025 awards showcased excellence across a variety of categories:

Rising Star Award: For emerging teachers with fewer than 10 years of experience—$10,000 total.

Leadership Award: For mid-career educators shaping their campuses—$20,000 total.

Lifetime Achievement: For 20+ years of classroom service—$50,000 total.

Counselors & Principals: Honored for holistic student development—up to $35,000 awarded per individual.

School Districts & Boards: Uplifting systems-level leadership—up to $100,000 per recipient.

Early Childhood Facilities: Recognizing the foundation of student success—$25,000 awarded.

Each finalist was surprised earlier this year with an in-person visit by H-E-B representatives—a gesture as meaningful as the award itself. 

Houston Style Magazine Applauds All Finalists

We at Houston Style Magazine are proud to champion this celebration. These educators—our city’s quiet warriors—often do their best work unseen. Yet H-E-B has ensured that their legacy is neither silent nor forgotten.

The program’s judging process, which involves university students, former awardees, and regional panels, is a gold standard for community-led recognition. This year’s rigorous process makes every dollar awarded not just a prize—but a powerful endorsement of excellence.

Nominate a Houston Hero Today

With nominations for the 2026 H-E-B Excellence in Education Awards now open, Houston has a chance to shine even brighter. Do you know a standout teacher, counselor, or school that deserves statewide recognition?

👉 Submit your nomination by September 30, 2025

 For more information on the program and nomination guidelines, visit HEBLovesTeachers.com