A fourth-grade student who promised himself he’d pay closer attention to his teacher, behave better in class, and work harder to get better grades this school year was surprised with a $500 shopping spree.

Nine-year-old Manuel Aguilar was awarded the prize from Northline Commons just in time for back-to-school.

They surprised him Friday at his school, HISD’s Garcia Elementary School. 

Manuel’s school principal and new teachers joined Northline officials with a shopping bag and balloons in hand to congratulate the student.

Northline Commons asked children to share their back-to-school resolutions for a chance to win a $500 shopping spree, and Manuel submitted the winning entry.

Manuel is planning to “pay a lot of attention in class” to “get good grades” and “have good conduct all year long.” 

Based on the back-to-school resolutions children submitted in their essays, teachers can expect students more focused on their studies and committed to “take better notes” instead of “talking with friends when the teacher is trying to explain things in front of the classroom.”

“Choosing one winner was very difficult.  Each child’s personality, excitement for a fresh start, and commitment to do better in school was apparent in each essay,” said Rebecca Victor, Northline Commons’ general manager. “It’s important for children to start the school year right, and we’d like to help by supporting their back-to-school resolutions.”

Essays were submitted by Houston-area students from elementary, middle, and high schools.