Kristi Heid’s name has become synonymous with the hurricane recovery efforts of her hometown of Sabine Pass.

As principal of the district’s kindergarten through 12th grade school, Heid also guides the students and staff toward excellence.

On Friday, a new title as added to her resume — The Port Arthur News Citizen of the Year.

When word of Heid’s win reached the school in Sabine Pass, another celebration was under way.

After a few well-acted stalling tactics, the principal was escorted to the campus by the new firetruck that Heid helped the town get through “Extreme Makeover.” There she was greeted by the entire student body lined up along the sidewalk.

As the school band played, Heid was presented with flowers while students crowded to give her a hug and get a glimpse of Heid’s framed front page photo from The News.

From a field of more than 40 nominees, The News staff had the daunting task of narrowing the number down to 10 finalists and finally, the Citizen of the Year. Nominees came from all walks of life and all of them went above and beyond the call of duty to help their fellow man.

“I’m awed, completely humbled. To be sitting here, listening to the accolades of the others here and to hear my name called ...,” Heid said, visibly choked with emotion.

Margaret Gillette, Heid’s mother, was elated and tearful as her daughter accepted the award.

“I’m surprised and I am so proud of her,” Gillette said. “What else can I say, if I say any more I’ll cry. He dad (who is deceased) would be so proud of her.”

Members of the Sabine Pass School Principal’s Council, school secretary and Superintendent Malcolm Nash were in attendance when Heid’s name was announced.

“We are very proud of her,” Nash said. “She’s a super person and was very instrumental in the community in getting the recovery process started. And she never took her hand off the school. She saw to it the kid’s got what they needed educationally, supported the teachers and helped the school get back to normal after the storm.”

Kayla Peltier, a senior at the school and member of the President’s Council, commends Heid for the work.

“She’s everywhere and she never takes a break,” Peltier said. “She’s always in the community helping people.”

True to form, Heid looks on the honor and the recovery efforts humbly.