Flour Bluff Elementary School erupted excitedly on Friday morning when a surprise crowd entered fourth-grade teacher Marisa Flores’ classroom. The unexpected visit, which included H-E-B representatives, school staff, and local media, momentarily interrupted the students’ “Good Choice Club Day.” However, the interruption was for a special reason—Flores had been named a Lifetime Achievement finalist in the prestigious H-E-B Excellence in Education Awards.
A Prestigious Honor with Big Rewards
This recognition is one of the highest honors for Texas educators and comes with significant benefits. As a finalist, Flores received a $1,000 check for herself and her school. Suppose she wins the top award later this spring. In that case, she and her campus will receive a $25,000 grant, which could impact their educational initiatives.
H-E-B’s Excellence in Education Awards celebrate exceptional teachers, principals, and school leaders across Texas. The program receives hundreds of nominations yearly and narrows them to 50 finalists. Additional awards recognize outstanding school districts, early childhood facilities, and school boards.
Flores’ Commitment to Education and Student Growth
Despite the excitement in the room, Flores quickly restored order, demonstrating the leadership and classroom management that has defined her 26-year career in education. Her students, who had been enjoying board games like Jenga, Monopoly, and Candyland as a reward for good behavior, eagerly listened as she received the big news.
Her dedication extends beyond the classroom. At Flour Bluff Elementary, Flores has been instrumental in establishing the school’s Eco-Schools program. Alongside her co-teacher, Lisl Ames, she mentors students in hands-on environmental research, including collecting soil and water samples to study their chemical composition. Thanks to their leadership, the student-led group recently earned a Green Flag accreditation from Eco-Schools, a prestigious environmental education initiative.
Inspiring Future Educators
Flores’ influence doesn’t stop with her students. As a National Board Certified Teacher since 2008, she actively mentors fellow educators working toward their certification. In Texas, teachers who achieve National Board Certification qualify for financial incentives through the Teacher Incentive Allotment program. Flores is determined to help her colleagues take advantage of this opportunity.
Her commitment to fostering student success and teacher development has earned her admiration from colleagues and students alike.
“She’s pretty nice, kind, and always makes everybody laugh,” said fourth grader Savanna Garcia, one of many students inspired by Flores’ teaching.
A Passion for Teaching That Never Fades
With nearly thirty years of experience, Flores has taught kindergarten, first, and second, but fourth grade holds a special place in her heart. At this stage, she said, students begin to gain independence and shape their identities—an exciting and critical time in their educational journey.
Though the years have passed, one thing remains the same: Flores’ unwavering care for her students.
“I love this job, I really do,” she said, emphasizing her belief that every child has the potential to succeed.
For Flores, the key to success is building strong relationships with students. “You’ve got to get to know each child individually so that you can understand their areas of strength and where they need help,” she explained.
As the school year continues in Flour Bluff Elementary School, Flores remains dedicated to helping her students grow, mentoring her colleagues, and making a lasting impact. Whether or not she wins the H-E-B Excellence in Education Award, her legacy in education is already undeniable.