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HCISD Named Teach For America’s 2025 Institutional Catalyst Award Recipient
HCISD Named Teach For America’s 2025 Institutional Catalyst Award Recipient
Harlingen CISD has been selected as the recipient of the 2025 Institutional Catalyst Award by Teach For America Rio Grande Valley. The award will be presented during TFA’s 35th Anniversary Honor Roll Gala on March 28, 2026, at the Mission Event Center.
The Institutional Catalyst Award recognizes organizations that demonstrate strong, collective leadership to advance educational excellence and expand opportunities for students. It honors those with a long-standing commitment to supporting schools, students, and the broader community.
“We are deeply honored to receive the Institutional Catalyst Award from Teach For America,” said Superintendent Dr. Veronica Kortan. “This recognition reflects the dedication of our educators, students, and community who embody our district’s leadership definition — a commitment to excellence and a heart for people. Through our partnership with TFA, we continue to empower future educators, strengthen classroom experiences, and create innovative pathways that ensure every student in HCISD has the opportunity to thrive and to be positioned for continued success.”
Harlingen CISD has partnered with Teach For America for several years to expand educational opportunities and grow local teaching talent. Together, both organizations work to develop educators who bring passion, equity, and innovation into classrooms, shaping the next generation of leaders in the Rio Grande Valley.
“Teach For America’s mission to develop leaders who expand educational opportunity and excellence aligns deeply with the values we uphold at Harlingen CISD,” said Dr. Nolan Pérez, Board President. “Together, we are building a community of educators who are committed to making a lasting impact on students and ensuring that every child, regardless of background, has access to an excellent education. In HCISD, we cultivate partnerships to advance an innovative approach to education and student achievement, and our partnership with TFA reflects that shared belief as we, collectively, transform lives and the future of our region.”
Serving nearly 16,000 students, HCISD continues to lead with a focus on personalized learning, future readiness, and community collaboration. The district’s commitment to innovation and excellence ensures that every student graduates prepared for college, career, and life.
The 2025 Honor Roll Gala will also recognize Dr. Guy Bailey, founding president of The University of Texas Rio Grande Valley, with the Educational Champion Award, and celebrate TFA’s 1,600 alumni for their contributions to education across the Rio Grande Valley.
“When students succeed, their communities succeed alongside them,” said Ana Gonzalez, executive director of Teach For America. “These honorees embody the dedication, creativity, and passion required to ensure every student can reach their full potential, leaving a lasting impact across the Rio Grande Valley.”