H-E-B selected Woodsboro Independent School District as a semi-finalist in its 2012 H-E-B Excellence in Education Award out of 800 applications from across Texas.

Charles Butt, H-E-B chairman, signed $500 in H-E-B gift cards.

“The cards are a small token of our gratitude for all you do each and every day to inspire and enlighten young minds,” said Jill Reynolds, H-E-B public affairs manager. “You are helping to shape the future of Texas and we thank you for your passion and your dedication. You are an inspiration to us all.”

Two weeks ago, Mark Brearden, local H-E-B manager, along with LaDonna Marquis, presented the award to Leslie Garza, elementary principal, David Carmichael, WJHS assistant principal and Steven Self, superintendent.

Out of all the applications, only 150 teachers, 50 principals, 33 districts and 20 Early Childhood applicants were selected as semi-finalists and advanced to the regional judging process.

The judges were impressed with WISD’s extensive professional accomplishments.

“Our judges definitely had their work cut out for them in narrowing the field,” Reynolds said.