Tomball ISD Superintendent Dr. Martha Salazar-Zamora to Receive Prestigious Golden Deeds for Education Award

THE WOODLANDS, TX — Tomball ISD Superintendent Dr. Martha Salazar-Zamora has been selected to receive the Golden Deeds for Education Award, one of the most prestigious honors in Texas public education. The award, presented annually by the Texas Association of School Administrators (TASA) in partnership with the Texas A&M University Department of Educational Administration and Human Resource Development, recognizes Texans for distinguished service to education in the state.

“Dr. Salazar-Zamora embodies the very best of Texas education leadership,” said Dr. Amy Schindewolf, Tomball ISD Deputy Superintendent. “Her visionary leadership, advocacy, and dedication to students and educators across the state make her a truly deserving recipient of this award.”

Given since 1964, the Golden Deeds for Education Award honors individuals who demonstrate distinguished service, visionary leadership, and a lasting impact on public education. Dr. Salazar-Zamora joins a select group of Texas leaders recognized for their transformative contributions to schools, communities, and the state’s education system.

With over 37 years of service in Texas public education, including the last nine years as Superintendent of Tomball ISD, Dr. Salazar-Zamora has guided both a fast-growing and high-performing district. Under her leadership, Tomball ISD is the only A-rated school district in both Harris and Montgomery counties, has been named the No. 1 Best School District in Harris County for seven consecutive years, and was recognized as a 2025 Houston Chronicle Top Workplace—demonstrating a culture where students excel, teachers feel supported, and community partnerships thrive.

Dr. Salazar-Zamora’s leadership has earned statewide and national recognition, including Texas Superintendent of the Year (2023) and AASA National Superintendent of the Year Finalist (2024). She has served in multiple leadership roles within TASA, including Immediate Past President, and continues to be a strong advocate for equitable school funding, leadership development, and student-focused instruction.

She has also championed opportunities for all students through initiatives in early childhood education, advanced academic and CTE pathways, multilingual education, special programs, and whole-child supports, including mental health initiatives. A mentor to countless educators, Dr. Salazar-Zamora continues to shape the next generation of Texas school leaders, having guided 18 new superintendents in the 2025–26 school year alone.

Dr. Salazar-Zamora will be presented with the Golden Deeds for Education Award at the 2026 TASA Midwinter Conference on January 26 in San Antonio, joining a distinguished group of Texans recognized for their lasting contributions to public education.