George McShann, a former Harlingen CISD board member and longtime educator, was presented the 2025 James B. Crow Innovation and Governance Award by the Texas Association of School Boards and designated a $10,000 donation to Harlingen CISD.

The award presentation took place at the Harlingen CISD board meeting on Aug. 12, where Sylvia Sanchez Garza, TASB secretary-treasurer, described McShann as a “champion for all students” and outlined the award’s focus on governance and innovation. McShann chose the district as the recipient of the monetary portion of the award and announced during his remarks that he wanted the funds to support career and technical education (CTE).

McShann, who told trustees he was first elected to the Harlingen school board in 1988 and later served as TASB president, framed his remarks around governance, collaboration and community engagement. “Every student can succeed,” he said in his remarks, urging trustees and staff to maintain strong relationships with families and to publicize the district’s offerings so parents understand Harlingen CISD as a choice.

Board members responded with personal recollections and praise, highlighting McShann’s mentorship of newer trustees and citing his role in earlier bond and program decisions. Trustees thanked TASB for the award and the $10,000 gift; district officials said McShann designated those funds for CTE, reflecting his 30-plus-year career at TSTC and long-standing advocacy for technical education.

The board paused regular business to take photos with McShann and the TASB delegation. No formal board action was required for the award; the presentation and McShann’s remarks were part of the board’s recognitions agenda.