In a momentous celebration of educational leadership, Dr. Asha and Farid Virani, in partnership with Teach For America Houston, proudly announce the winners of the 2024 Virani Distinguished School Leader Award. This esteemed recognition highlights the exceptional dedication and transformative impact of two remarkable school leaders in the Greater Houston area. Each winner will receive a $10,000 grant to further their efforts in driving educational excellence and equity.

The Virani Distinguished School Leader Award was created to honor principals who embody the highest standards of leadership, resilience, and commitment to their communities. Out of a competitive pool of over 40 eligible candidates and nine nominees, the selection committee—comprising diverse voices from the educational sector—identified leaders who not only pursue equity and strengthen their communities but also achieve significant impact through courage, humility, and continuous learning. To qualify, nominees had to be Teach For America alumni, full-time school leaders in Houston, and have at least two years of school leadership experience.

Meet the 2024 Award Winners:

Mrs. Kaleena Coleman

Founding Principal, KIPP Unity Primary

TFA Houston ’06 Corps Member

Mrs. Kaleena Coleman’s journey in education began after she graduated from the University of Southern Maine with a degree in criminology in 2005. She joined Teach For America as a Corps Member in 2006, where she started teaching first grade in Alief ISD. Her passion for educational leadership led her to earn a master's degree in educational leadership from National Louis University in 2013. Mrs. Coleman’s drive for excellence saw her become a founding teacher and later the Dean of Instruction at KIPP Sharp College Prep. In 2015, she took on the role of founding Principal at KIPP Unity Primary, where she has been instrumental in ensuring that every student receives a quality education, empowering them with opportunities to succeed in life.

Ms. Cynovia Hall

Founding Principal, YES Prep Airline Elementary

TFA Houston ’12 Corps Member

Ms. Cynovia Hall’s dedication to education and community impact is evident from her extensive career. After completing her undergraduate studies at Texas State University in 2012, she earned a master’s degree and Principal Certification from the University of St. Thomas. Ms. Hall began her teaching career as a Teach For America Corps Member in Houston before moving to Washington, D.C., where she contributed to the success of a turnaround charter school as a founding teacher. Upon returning to Houston, she taught upper elementary students and served as a middle school teacher specialist before being named the Resident Principal at YES Prep Southside. Today, as the founding Principal of YES Prep Airline Elementary, Ms. Hall continues to inspire her students and staff, fostering an environment where educational equity and excellence are paramount.

 Dr. Asha and Farid Virani present the award check to Cynovia Hall, one of the two 2024 Virani Distinguished School Leader Award winners. From left to right, top: Tiffany Cuellar Needham (Executive Director, TFA Houston), Danitra Arredondo (Head of Schools, YES Prep), Jared Braun (AP, KIPP Unity), Reagan Fitzpatrick (Cynovia’s daughter), Elizabeth Carlson-Young (Deputy Chief Program Officer, YES Prep), Cynovia Hall (Winner, Virani Distinguished School Leader Award), Judy Pilgrim (Cynovia’s mom), and Dr. Asha and Farid Virani (Founders, Virani Distinguished School Leader Award).
 

Empowering the Next Generation of Leaders

The Virani Distinguished School Leader Award is more than just a recognition; it is a testament to the transformative power of dedicated leadership in education. Both Mrs. Coleman and Ms. Hall exemplify the qualities that drive positive change in Houston's schools. Their work not only impacts their students but also strengthens the entire community, setting a standard for future generations of educators.

Dr. Asha and Farid Virani, long-time advocates for education, expressed their pride in supporting these outstanding leaders. "We are honored to recognize Mrs. Coleman and Ms. Hall for their unwavering commitment to creating equitable and inclusive learning environments," said Dr. Virani. "Their leadership is instrumental in shaping the future of our children and our community."

As these school leaders continue their journey, the $10,000 grants will support their ongoing efforts to innovate and enhance the educational experiences of their students. The Virani Distinguished School Leader Award serves as a beacon of encouragement for all educators, reminding us that true leadership is defined by the ability to inspire, uplift, and empower others.

For more information on the Virani Distinguished School Leader Award and updates on the 2024 winners, visit Teach For America Houston’s website or follow their social media channels.

Houston Style Magazine congratulates Mrs. Kaleena Coleman and Ms. Cynovia Hall on this well-deserved honor and looks forward to witnessing the continued impact of their extraordinary leadership in our community.