Texas Border Business
RIO GRANDE VALLEY, Texas– IDEA Public Schools is proud to announce one of its outstanding students at IDEA Mission, Ximena Villarreal, has been named the 2025-2026 National Youth of the Year by Boys & Girls Clubs of America. The announcement was made during the Boys & Girls Club ceremony held in Los Angeles by National Spokesperson and Actor Denzel Washington. The honor recognizes Ximena’s exemplary leadership, academic achievement, community service, and advocacy for youth issues.
“Serving as a role model and representing millions of kids all over the country is truly an honor,” said IDEA Mission Senior Ximena Villarreal. “I like to use my story to show what the Boys & Girls Club can do for youth, uplifting, empowering, and giving us the confidence we need to chase our dreams. At the same time, I am proud to represent IDEA Public Schools, where I’ve studied since kindergarten. IDEA has always believed in me and pushed me to aim higher. They have shaped who I am today and inspired me to help others see what’s possible.”
As National Youth of the Year, Ximena will serve as a spokesperson for the Boys & Girls Club across America and was awarded a $50,000 scholarship and a new car. Ximena, a member of the Boys & Girls Club of McAllen for nine years, is also the 2025 Texas Youth of the Year and the Southwest Youth of the Year.
“We are extremely proud of our daughter and all her accomplishments,” said Ximena’s parents, Maria Teresa and Carlos Villarreal. “From the time she was little, Ximena has always been determined, compassionate, and committed to making a difference. To see her recognized on a national stage, made us even prouder, and we know that she will use her voice to inspire more young people to believe in themselves.”
Ximena is President of the National Honor Society and plays varsity volleyball and soccer at IDEA Mission. Her dream is to study law, and she will be applying to several universities, including University of Chicago, Columbia University, and UT Austin.
“Our entire IDEA Mission school community is filled with pride over Ximena’s well-deserved award,” said IDEA Mission Senior Executive Principal Christina Cavazos Flores. “She’s been with us since her elementary years, and we’ve watched her grow into the amazing dreamer, doer, energizer, and leader she is today, an all-around role model.”
During her time in the Club’s programs, Ximena has participated deeply in leadership, volunteering, sports, and other youth development activities. Engaged in the “Think, Learn, Create Change” advocacy program, Ximena has addressed different challenges facing families, shared mental-health resources, and presented before the U.S. Congress.
