Austin ISD saluted high achievers and dedicated volunteers at the Latino Academic Achievement Awards on May 6 at the AISD Performing Arts Center.
In addition to showcasing the academic excellence of Latino students from throughout the district, the ceremony honored community leaders in a trio of categories.
Mona Gonzales took home the Community Service Award for her founding and leadership of the River City Youth Foundation.
Established in 1983, it is Austin’s longest-running youth organization. When floods devastated Dove Springs in 2013, Gonzalez mobilized volunteers, resources and funds to begin the community turnaround.
The Latino Excellence in Advocacy Award went to Foundation Communities for providing outstanding support in advancing Latino academic achievement and promoting strong educational outcomes in AISD.
The Latino Parent Volunteer Award went to Rosa Mar for her ongoing contributions to Woodridge Elementary School. She has served as the school PTA’s vice president, treasurer, historian and secretary.
Dozens of scholars were honored as well. Laurels were awarded in the following categories:
- Young Latino Leader
- Outstanding Academic Progress in an ESL Program
- Outstanding Academic Progress in a Dual Language Program
- Fine Arts Award for one high school student from each campus
- Athletics Award for one high school student from each campus
- Top Latino Student enrolled in Advanced Placement Courses
- Latino Students with the Highest GPAs
The event also featured performances by Akins High School's Ballet Folklórico, guitar groups from Martin Middle School and Garza Independence High School, and Crockett High School's Mariachi del Oro.