NHECH Principal Angela Lundy-Jackson (striped skirt) is recognized by Houston City Councilwoman Karla Cisneros (left center) and Houston Mayor Sylvester Turner (right center) on Feb. 23.

Before Tuesday’s Houston City Council meeting got underway, current councilwoman and former HISD Board President Karla Cisneros had a special announcement.

She motioned for North Houston Early College High School Principal Angela Lundy-Jackson to come before the council to receive a special proclamation.

Cisneros introduced her to the council members as “one of the most amazing educators in our city,” and then, along with Mayor Sylvester Turner, proclaimed Feb. 23, 2016, Angela Lundy-Jackson Day in Houston.

“I’m truly honored,” said an emotional Lundy-Jackson.

Following the presentation, Lundy-Jackson said she was surprised by the proclamation and wasn’t aware of the recognition she was receiving.

“Most people know I’m pretty much an introvert, so it’s always surprising and wonderful to hear people acknowledge the work you do for kids every day,” she said. “(My staff) pulled the wool over my eyes. I’m usually pretty savvy about figuring these things out.”

She was quick to pass along much of the praise she received to her staff and students. As principal, she said, much of the great work done in her schools is about finding the right teachers and communicating to students the high educational standards they are capable of achieving.

“As a leader, you take your time and choose the right people,” Lundy-Jackson said. “If you don’t have the same level of passion I have for my students, you’re probably not the right person for my campus.”