Lawmaker Receives Sandi Borden Tribute to Texas Children Award
For his exceptional contributions to public education in Texas, Representative Gary VanDeaver has been named this year’s recipient of the prestigious Sandi Borden Tribute to Texas Children Award. Representative VanDeaver is serving his sixth term as the state Representative for Texas House District 1 for Bowie, Cass, Lamar, Morris and Red River counties.
“We are honored to recognize Representative VanDeaver for his steadfast support of Texas students and educators,” TEPSA Executive Director Harley Eckhart said. “Throughout his journey as an educator and state legislator, he has worked diligently and against many odds to ensure all students receive the resources they need to succeed in public schools—the cornerstone of so many communities throughout our state.”
Driven by a profound commitment to serving others and investing in future generations, Representative VanDeaver embarked on a 33-year career as an educator. He began working as a vocational agriculture teacher, eventually becoming a school principal and earning a Doctorate in Educational Administration. He last served as Superintendent of New Boston ISD before his initial election to the Texas House in 2014. During his tenure in the House of Representatives, he has successfully passed legislation supporting public schools. This includes laws aimed at reducing high-stakes testing, enhancing the protection of student data, establishing fair accountability practices, and emphasizing Career and Technical Education (CTE) pathways. In 2025, Representative VanDeaver was one of two House Republicans who voted against the $1 billion voucher program advanced by Governor Abbott. He is not seeking re-election and will conclude his term in office in January 2027.
Representative VanDeaver will be recognized during the TEPSA Summer Conference June 10 at the Round Rock Kalahari.
The Sandi Borden Tribute to Texas Children award recognizes individuals or companies who demonstrate a:
- History of distinguished and exceptional service to children and public education in Texas schools.
- A record of leadership and sustained commitment to service through professional activities and involvement.
- Demonstrated a commitment to PK-8 youth, their education, health and welfare rather than to the institution.
TEPSA, whose hallmark is educational leaders learning with and from each other, has served Texas PK-8 school leaders since 1917. Member-owned and member-governed, TEPSA represents more than 6,000 members who direct the activities of more than 3 million PK-8 schoolchildren.
