Lindale High School Senior Karla Cruz nervously approached the principal’s office Friday morning after she was called from class.

“I didn’t know what to think actually,” Cruz said with a smile moments later. “A call to the principal’s office isn’t always good.”

Cruz was surprised with the presentation of the Good Neighbor Award from R.J. Collins State Farm Insurance.  She received a framed certificate, a gift card to Doc’s Pizza in Lindale and a travel safety kit from Collins.

The R.J. Collins State Farm Insurance Good Neighbor Award is presented once a month during the school year to a student who represents the core values of Lindale High School: accountability, commitment, discipline, honesty, integrity, ownership, respect and responsibility.  Students are nominated for the award by Lindale High School counselors and administrators. Cruz is the first recipient of the award during the 2013-2014 school year.

“I’m really happy about it,” she said. “I try to do what I’m supposed to do, I try to do everything right. I’m happy my principal and counselors recognized that.”

Cruz would like to pursue a career as a translator for the court system or area hospitals. She is currently a member of the National Honor Society, Key Club and Spanish Club. She also participates in UIL Social Studies competitions.