Principal Monica Collins of Pearson Ranch Middle School had prepared her students and staff to come together for a schoolwide Bond 2024 presentation—complete with the band, cheerleaders, and the entire student body.

Her energy shifted as she entered the gym and realized there might be something more than the regular district visit. District leadership, staff, and H-E-B personnel, including the infamous H-E-Buddy, cheered as she entered.

Superintendent Hafedh Azaiez came to the mic to announce that Principal Collins had been named a finalist for an H-E-B Excellence in Education Award!

“I was shocked that this surprise was pulled off because I know everything that goes on on this campus,” Collins laughed. “I feel so much joy because I love this school and this community, so It’s such a great honor that I get to play a role in these students’ lives.”

Along with the recognition, H-E-B awarded Collins $1,000 for her and $2,500 for her school.

Katy T., an eighth-grader, said Collins has significantly impacted her students as a school leader with a deep love for her campus.

“Principal Collins is very caring and involved,” Katy said. “She’ll come into our classes, ask us about the lessons we’re learning, and help us if we are struggling.”

Cooper F., another eighth-grader, said Principal Collins cares about her community.

“Principal Collins inspires me to be more helpful to others. She teaches me there is always time to help those who need it,” Cooper said.

The H-E-B Excellence in Education awards recognize teachers, counselors, and principals who demonstrate exceptional leadership and campus culture, as well as outstanding instructional leadership, management communications, and community relations. As a finalist, Collins will move to the state level, where, if selected as the winner, she will receive a $10,000 grant for Pearson Ranch Middle School and a $10,000 personal prize.

As a finalist, Collins and four guests will travel south to Houston for the awards gala in May. Judges will interview her, and then the winners of each category will be announced at their awards dinner.

“My students and staff are the people who give me the greatest joy in this job,” Collin said. “I think of each person as a diamond, and my job is to find the right cut and setting to make them sparkle the most.”