ILTexas Honored with the George H. W. Bush Foundation Award for K–12 Excellence in U.S.–China Relations

ILTexas was honored to receive the 2025 George H. W. Bush Award for K–12 Excellence in U.S.–China Relations, presented at a special ceremony hosted at ILTexas Garland High School. The event highlighted our district’s long-standing commitment to language learning, cultural understanding, and preparing students to lead in a global society.

We were proud to welcome David Firestein, President and CEO of the George H. W. Bush Foundation for U.S.–China Relations. Superintendent Eddie Conger joined him on stage for the presentation of the award.

The entire ceremony was led by four ILTexas students—Carlos Carrasco, Shiny Zhou, Aidan Cronin, and Isabel Fernandes—who guided the program from start to finish. Students introduced the speakers, welcomed guests, and facilitated a thoughtful Q&A with Mr. Firestein and Superintendent Conger. Our choir performed Mo Li Hua and God Bless America, and our MCJROTC cadets presented the colors.

During the ceremony, Mr. Firestein shared:

“No other K–12 school in the country does more to deepen students’ understanding of China and U.S.–China relations. Your commitment to language learning, servant leadership, and cross-cultural engagement is exceptional.”

Superintendent Conger spoke on the importance of continuing this work:

“The U.S.–China relationship may be the most important international relationship of the next 100 years."

Following the Q&A, Mr. Firestein officially presented the award to ILTexas, marking a significant moment for our charter and our mission.

Watch the full ceremony below.