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April 23, 2008
Communities in Schools presents the Best of Texas Awards, recognizing everyday people doing extraordinary things
AUSTIN – Every year, hundreds of individuals volunteer their time and effort towards the Communities In Schools (CIS) program, an exemplary dropout prevention program administered by the Texas Education Agency. These individuals contribute in various ways towards a common goal: keeping Texas youth in school and better prepared for a post-secondary education.
In conjunction with Volunteer Month, the Communities In Schools State Advisory Committee will host the CIS Best of Texas Awards ceremony and luncheon, Thursday, to recognize 11 individuals who exemplify the spirit of volunteerism and their support of the CIS program. The luncheon is scheduled for 11 a.m. at the Courtyard by Marriot, 300 E 4th St, Austin.
"It is a privilege and an honor to recognize these 11 individuals that have done extraordinary things through their commitment to give back to their communities and support the CIS program," said Gonzalo Barrientos, board chair of the CIS State Advisory Committee, which sponsors the event. This is the seventh year that CIS has recognized outstanding contributions by unique individuals.
For more information on the Best of Texas Awards contact Nellie Reyes, CIS director, (512) 463-1218.
The 2008 Best of Texas Awards will be presented to:
Paul Lane Award of Excellence, Eric Metcalf, CIS Central Texas
Board Member of the Year, Jeff Morris, CIS Dallas Region
Executive Director of the Year, Peter Wuenschel, CIS Bay Area
Staff Member of the Year, Jessica Weaver, CIS of San Antonio
Volunteer of the Year, Pete Cross, CIS Dallas Region
Parent of the Year, Sonia E. Islas,CIS El Paso
Student of the Year, Linzie Bradshaw, CIS of the Heart of Texas
Superintendent of the Year, Dr. Dawson Orr, CIS of the Greater Wichita Falls Area
Principal of the Year, Judy Ratlief, CIS of San Antonio
Teacher of the Year, Mary Lathan, CIS Southeast Texas
Business of the Year, CPS Energy, CIS of San Antonio
Contact:
Division of Communications
1701 N. Congress Avenue
Austin, Texas 78757
Phone: (512) 463-9000
E-mail: teainfo@tea.state.tx.us