EL PASO, Texas (KFOX14/CBS4) — Two Borderland educators were surprised Tuesday with recognition for their dedication to education.
Representatives from H-E-B named Principal Dr. Melissa Saenz from Montwood Middle School and Special Education Teacher Alejandro De La Peña Jr. from Parkland Pre-Engineering Middle School finalists for the 2026 H-E-B Excellence in Education Awards.
Saenz is a finalist for the Principal category, while De La Peña Jr. for the Leadership category.
Both educators received a $1,000 check.
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“Here at Montwood Middle School, we focus not just on supporting all students… getting them ready for college already,” Saenz said while speaking on her and the school’s commitment to their students.
De La Pena Jr. said he is proud of the recognition, adding that this is the second time he has been nominated for an H-E-B Excellence in Education award.
“For me I still don’t see it enough, people my color, my race, my ethnicity getting the recognition for the things that they do, they don’t get it enough, especially in our world today,” De La Pena Jr. said.
In total, H-E-B said it will recognize 50 finalists across Texas, awarding $120,000 to educators and schools. Winners, who will receive cash prizes ranging from $5,000 to $25,000, will be announced at a ceremony in Houston on Sunday, May 3, where $480,000 will be awarded.
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