SAN MARCOS CISD
Teachers too often don’t get the recognition they deserve but H-E-B’s Excellence in Education Awards highlight and reward educators who make a difference in Texas. San Marcos’ own Carol Fernandez was one of the 50 finalists and was nominated for a Lifetime Achievement Award. Fernandez has been an educator with San Marcos CISD for 35 years and counting, touching the lives of thousands of kids, parents and faculty. She specializes in Gifted and Talented education where she combines Science, Technology, Engineering, Art and Mathematics with outdoor learning to ensure her students develop critical thinking skills and a deep connection to the world around them. A highlight of her career has been the butterfly garden she has helped bloom at Maria Hernandez Elementary School. It is a safe haven for migrating monarchs and is a certified native habitat through Keep San Marcos Beautiful’s Habitat Stewardship Program.
“I’ve had a fabulous experience with H-E-B and I would definitely encourage anybody that is thinking of going into teaching to go into it.” Fernandez said. “It’s a very rewarding experience, and I’m happy knowing that I have had the opportunity to do what I love and to change people’s lives.”
