Seven outstanding counseling teams from the Socorro Independent School District have been recognized with 2026 Lone Star Awards from the Lone Star State School Counselor Association (LSSSCA) for their dedication to student success and excellence in school counseling.
The LSSSCA honors outstanding school counselors and data-driven school counseling programs across Texas through its annual Lone Star Awards.
The awards recognize exemplary school counseling programs that support students' academic achievement, college and career readiness and social-emotional development. The Lone Star Award also serves as a steppingstone for programs seeking national recognition through the American School Counselor Association's Recognized ASCA Model Program (RAMP).
The award program features three tiers of recognition: Bronze, Silver, and Gold. H.D. Hilley Elementary School, Hueco Elementary School and Sun Ridge Middle School received the Gold Award. Americas High School, Eastlake Middle School, Robert R. Rojas Elementary and William D. Slider Middle School earned the silver award.
“We are incredibly proud of our counselors and counseling teams for earning these well-deserved honors. Their dedication, advocacy, and student-centered approach make a meaningful difference in the lives of our students and families every day,” said Alma Dominguez Barrios, director of school counseling. “These recognitions highlight the exceptional work taking place in our schools every day and reflect Socorro ISD’s strong commitment to student achievement and well-being.”
The winners will be recognized at the LSSSCA Annual Conference Awards Gala on Nov. 15 in Frisco, Texas.
2026 Lone Star Award School Counseling Winners
Gold
H.D. Hilley Elementary School, Carmen Bebon
Hueco Elementary School, Sandy Rulon
Sun Ridge Middle School, Yvonne Alvarez and Yvonne Sermeño
Silver
Americas High School, Elizabeth Ochoa Rivas, Angelica Aldaña, Gabriela Shimshock, Lizbeth Yslas, Rosie Ortiz, Claudia Preciado-Ortega and Aida Mata
Eastlake Middle School, Brenda Martinez, Saira Armendariz and Judith Olivas
Robert R. Rojas Elementary, Veronica Villanueva
William D. Slider Middle School, Lisa Dieter and Jessica Campoya