Paris High School student Mary Grace Gibbons has been selected as a recipient of the Texas State Board of Education (SBOE) Student Heroes Award, one of the state’s highest recognitions for student volunteerism and community service.
Nominated by Paris ISD Superintendent Althea Dixon, Mary Grace was chosen as one of only 15 students across Texas to receive the honor in 2026. She will be formally recognized during the State Board of Education meeting on June 26 in Austin.
The Student Heroes Award recognizes Texas public school students who demonstrate outstanding volunteer service, leadership, and a commitment to improving the lives of others in their schools and communities.
Mary Grace earned the recognition through her development of “Mr. Marvin’s Market,” a community refrigerator initiative at Paris High School designed to reduce food insecurity and food waste. The project was inspired by former Paris High School cafeteria employee Marvin Wroten, who was known for his compassion toward students and his efforts to ensure no child went hungry.
Through the initiative, students can place unopened cafeteria items, such as milk, juice, and fruit, into a refrigerator where they are available for other students who may need additional food during the school day. Any remaining items are donated to CitySquare, extending the program’s impact into the community.
To bring the project to life, Mary Grace secured funding and worked with Mark and Mandeep Chatha-Homer, school administrators, nutrition staff, and community partners to establish a safe and sustainable program. Her efforts have helped increase access to food resources for students while reducing waste on campus.
“Mary Grace represents the very best of Paris ISD and Wildcat Nation,” said Superintendent Althea Dixon. “She saw a need, developed a solution, and created a program that continues to serve others every day. Her compassion, leadership, and determination have made a lasting impact on our students and community, and we are incredibly proud of this well-deserved recognition.”
The Student Heroes Award highlights young Texans who are making a meaningful difference through service, and Mary Grace’s selection places her among an elite group of students whose actions are creating positive change across the state.
Paris ISD congratulates Mary Grace on this outstanding achievement and looks forward to celebrating her recognition at the State Board of Education meeting later this month.
