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Barry presented award for teaching excellence

Donna Barry (center) received “Mirabeau B. Lamar Award of Excellence” for outstanding service in the field of education. Lodge member on hand for the presentation were (on Barry’s left), Junior Bridges, (on Barry’s right) Worshipful Master Jimmy Zepeda, Jr. and Lodge Secretary Robert Podvin.

By Laurie Bettis
HISD Public Information
Published: 08.21.08
HEMPSTEAD - Donna Barry, physical education teacher at Hempstead Elementary was recently awarded the “Mirabeau B. Lamar Award of Excellence” from The Grand Lodge of Texas, A.F.V.A.M. for personal achievement in the public school system.



Donna Barry has taught at Hempstead Elementary for five years.  She has worked in the areas of special education and physical education.  Donna, a graduate from Sam Houston State University with a degree in Business Administration, received her Master of Education degree with a major in Educational Administration from Prairie View A&M University.  Donna is married to Kelvin Barry and they have one son, Clayton.

Hempstead Masonic Lodge No. 749 presented Donna with a medallion and certificate at a special ceremony in front of the entire elementary student body in May.  The Lodge also honored Donna during a July meeting.  Jimmy Zepeda, Junior Bridges and Robert Podvin along with several lodge members were on hand to make the presentation.

Mirabeau B. Lamar, the second president of the Republic of Texas, has been called “The Father of Public Education in Texas” for his leadership in establishing quality public education in Texas.  Lamar was a member of the Masonic Fraternity, known then as it is today, for its strong support of excellence in the public schools.  The Mirabeau B. Lamar Medal Program began in 1988.  Donna enjoys teaching and is honored to receive this award.




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