Texas Border Business
PHARR – Two Pharr-San Juan-Alamo Independent School District (PSJA ISD) educators have been named state finalists for the 2026 H-E-B Excellence in Education Awards. Carolina De Anda-Treviño of Carmen Anaya Elementary was selected as a finalist in the Rising Star Elementary category, while Tami Bhadai of Cesar Chavez Elementary was named a finalist in the Lifetime Achievement Elementary category.
The H-E-B Excellence in Education Awards recognizes exceptional public school educators, schools, and districts across Texas for their commitment to innovation, leadership, and student success. Since launching in 2002, the program has invested nearly $14 million in public education statewide. Finalists are honored for their achievements, and the winners, together with their schools, receive cash awards and matching grants to support continued educational excellence.
De Anda- Treviño is a 5th grade Gifted and Talented Dual Language teacher at Anaya Elementary where she places a strong emphasis on language and culture. Through her teaching, she is intentional about uplifting student voices.
“I hope my students know that they don’t have to choose between who they are and who they’re becoming to be successful—they can be both, “said De Anda-Treviño. “I want them to leave my classroom believing they already have everything they need to accomplish anything, as long as they believe in who they are and work hard.”
Bhadai, an educator with 22 years of classroom experience, serves as the Science Lab teacher for 4th and 5th grade students at Chavez Elementary. She is also the school’s Junior Master Gardening sponsor.
“Before my students leave my room, I want them to know they were loved, they were cared for, and they were my everything that year,” said Bhadai. “I hope they carry those memories with them into adulthood and grow into responsible, confident citizens who understand their impact on the world.”
PSJA Superintendent Dr. Alejandro Elias highlighted the lasting influence educators have on students’ lives.
“We are honored to have two educators recognized as State Finalist for the H-E-B Excellence in Education Award,” said PSJA Superintendent Dr. Alejandro Elias. “This recognition reflects the dedication of our educators, staff, and school leaders who work tirelessly to serve our students. I am sincerely grateful to our PSJA Family and community partners for their trust, collaboration, and shared commitment to ensuring success for every child.”
Serving more than 29,000 students across three cities, PSJA ISD provides comprehensive and rigorous academic programs from pre-kindergarten through 12th grade. The district is nationally recognized for its commitment to college readiness, with a high school completion rate exceeding 97 percent and one of the only wall-to-wall Early College Programs in Texas and the nation.
For more information about the H-E-B Excellence in Education Awards, visit HEBLovesTeachers.com
