Cruz, who has 29 years of serving students and families in the education field, received the award under the Secondary Education category and was honored at the 6th Annual Adelante Awards Gala held on April 30.

The Adelante Award program is an initiative by the Los Hermanos Familia, a non-profit organization that works to strengthen families and community. Through the award program, their goal is to honor men within the Lubbock community who excel in their careers, volunteer efforts, and service to others.

“Out of all the recognitions and awards I have received during my educational career, this one particularly hit home and has a very special place in my heart,” said Cruz. “I am humbled and beyond blessed to have received this award. The meaning behind this award is an absolute representation of who my dad was. I inherited these amazing characteristics from my beloved father.”

Under his leadership, Cruz has helped grow the Frenship ISD’s Dual Language program and student success. Just this week, he held Frenship ISD’s first Biliteracy Seal Banquet to honor the first dual language cohort to graduate from Frenship High School.

“To have the opportunity to serve, guide, support, collaborate, and help our Dual Language and ESL families in Frenship ISD has been and will continue to be a blessing,” said Cruz.