Connect with Katie WEEKLY NEWS AND INFORMATION FROM THE SUPERINTENDENT
AUGUST 7, 2026
y o j e v o L s d r a p o e L
TABLE OF Contents M E S S A G E F R O M T H E S U P E R I N T E N D E N T. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . LOVEJOY PROFESSIONAL HIRE DAY............................. TEACHER OF THE YEAR LUNCHEON.............................. 2026 TEXAS HONOR SCHOOL BOARD............................ LOVEJOY MEETS LOVEJOY......................................... COMMUNITY SPONSORS........................................... BACK TO SCHOOL REMINDERS.................................... A L U M N I S P O T L I G H T. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . SHAC.................................................................. PLAN AHEAD WITH LOVEJOY...................................... DISTRICT CALENDAR............................................... LOVEJOY FOOTBALL CAMP........................................ CHEER CAMP SUCCESS.............................................
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23 2026 FOOTBALL SCHEDULE....................................... 24 CLEAR BAG POLICY................................................. 25 B A C K T O S C H O O L R O A D M A P. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 35 LEOPARD LIFE.......................................................
MESSAGE FROM THE
Superintendent
Dear Lovejoy Community, There is an incredible sense of excitement across Lovejoy ISD as we prepare for our best school year yet! This week, we welcomed our teachers and staff back to campus, and today we had the joy of opening our doors to students and families at our Back-to-School events. The energy has been contagious, and we cannot wait to welcome our students for the first day of school on Wednesday, August 12th. Our teachers, staff, and administrators have spent the summer preparing for a year of meaningful learning, strong relationships, and exceptional opportunities for every student. Their dedication is what makes Lovejoy so special, and I am grateful for the passion they bring to our schools each day. Congratulations to the Lovejoy ISD Board of Trustees on being named a 2026 Texas Honor School Board, one of only five school boards in Texas to earn this prestigious recognition! This outstanding achievement also makes the Board a finalist for the Texas Association of School Administrators (TASA) 2026 Outstanding School Board award, with the statewide winner to be announced in October. This well-deserved honor reflects their continued dedication to serving Lovejoy ISD students and staff with excellence. This week also brought moments of tremendous pride as we celebrated Shannon Price and Jenny Perez at the Region 10 Teacher of the Year Luncheon. We are incredibly proud to celebrate these outstanding educators and the impact they have on our students, schools, and Lovejoy family! Congratulations, Mrs. Price and Mrs. Perez! A special thank you to the Foundation for Lovejoy Schools for generously providing every new educator with a $100 classroom grant to help prepare for a successful year ahead. We are incredibly grateful for the continued investment from both the Foundation and our community in our teachers, our students, and the future of Lovejoy!
We had a very special visitor last week when we welcomed 10-year-old Lucas Lovejoy and his family, who traveled all the way from North Dakota to visit Lovejoy ISD! Lucas Lovejoy and his family were in Texas for a visit and he insisted they visit the school district that shares his name! The Lovejoy Family shared that they traveled to visit our district because of both their family name, “Lovejoy” and the reputation Lovejoy ISD has earned for excellence. Their visit was a wonderful reminder that our impact extends far beyond our community, and that the Lovejoy name continues to stand for something truly special. Lucas will return home to North Dakota as a honorary Lovejoy Leopard! As you read this edition of Connect with Katie, you'll find important back-to-school reminders, district updates, and celebrations from an exciting week. Thank you for your continued partnership and support as we begin another incredible school year together. Have a wonderful weekend, Lovejoy. We can’t wait to welcome everyone back and kick off an amazing first day of school next week!
There is only ONE LOVEJOY and we are ALL LEOPARDS! Lovejoy Proud,
Katie Kordel Superintendent
LOVEJOY PROFESSIONAL New Hire Day! On July 29th, Lovejoy ISD proudly welcomed its newest Lovejoy Leopards during the New Professional Day Celebration. Incoming teachers and staff were introduced to the heart of Lovejoy through an engaging day led by District leaders. The event was filled with connection, inspiration, and preparation as these passionate educators began their journey in Lovejoy ISD. The District looks forward to the incredible impact they will make in classrooms and throughout the Lovejoy community.
TEACHER OF THE YEAR Region 10 Luncheon! On July 30th, District leaders had the honor of celebrating Shannon Price and Jenny Perez at Region 10’s Teacher of the Year Luncheon! These exceptional educators were recognized among the region’s finest for their dedication and impact in the classroom. We are deeply grateful for their passion and strong commitment to student success. Congratulations, Ms. Price and Ms. Perez, you are truly REMARKABLE!
FOUNDATION FOR Lovejoy Schools Because of your generosity, The Foundation for Lovejoy Schools was able to grant each new educator to the district $100 to get their classrooms up and running. Thank you for your unwavering support of our teachers and staff!
2026 TEXAS HONOR School Board For Press Release
PERSONNEL Update
Lovejoy LOVEJOY MEETS Last week, Lovejoy ISD had the pleasure of welcoming some very special visitors. Superintendent Kordel met 10-year-old Lucas Lovejoy and his family, who traveled all the way from North Dakota to visit Lovejoy ISD! So, what inspired the trip? Two very special reasons: 1. Their family name is Lovejoy, and they wanted to see the school district that shares it. 2. While researching schools for a project, Lucas repeatedly came across one district recognized for excellence: Lovejoy ISD. During their visit, the family toured the Administration Building, originally Lovejoy's first schoolhouse, learned about the rich history of the district, and experienced firsthand what makes the Lovejoy community so special. Who knows? Lucas and his brother just might become official Lovejoy Leopards one day! Thank you, Lucas, for your curiosity, enthusiasm, and for making the journey to visit us. As he proudly held up the double "L" on his way out, Lucas summed up the visit perfectly: "Go Lovejoy Leopards!"
2026-2027
COMMUNITY SPONSORS
Lovejoy ISD would like to extend our deepest gratitude to our 2026-2027 advertising sponsors. We are grateful for their investment in Lovejoy ISD as business partners, including our Anchor Sponsors and Community Partners.
ANCHOR SPONSORS
COMMUNITY PARTNERS
LOVEJOY Campus Directory Not sure who to contact? We're here to help! If you have a question about your child's campus, finding the right person is easy. Simply click the link below to find the assistance you need. LISD CAMPUS DIRECTORY
Who to Call?
CONNECTING LOCAL BUSINESSES AND THE LOVEJOY COMMUNITY WHILE SUPPORTING LOVEJOY ISD THROUGH REVENUE GENERATION The Lovejoy ISD Community Partner program is a new way for local businesses to support Lovejoy ISD and connect with the Lovejoy Community! Community Partner advertisements are featured in our weekly District newsletter, Connect with Katie, Living Lovejoy videos, and District Social Media. Interested in becoming a Community Partner? Click HERE to learn more!
BACK TO SCHOOL Traffic Reminders! As we continue preparing our classrooms and campuses to welcome students and families back, we have a few important reminders for the first two weeks of school: Plan for extra drive time. Expect heavier traffic and longer carpool lines during arrival and dismissal. Things will smooth out after the first couple of weeks! Bus routes may run slower. Both morning and afternoon routes may take more time as routines are established. Review your campus arrival/dismissal plan. Parking and carpool procedures may have changed since last year — double-check to stay informed. Let’s kick off the 2026-2027 school year safely and smoothly by showing extra patience and grace as everyone settles in. We appreciate your support and partnership!
FIRST DAY OF SCHOOL Attendance According to TEA, if a student is not physically present and in a seat on the first day of school then they will be coded a "no show." Coding a student a no show will temporarily disable their schedule. When the student returns to school, the student or parent will need to visit the campus counselor or PEIMS/data clerk to have their schedule reactivated. Please plan on having your student arrive early to school so this can be done before their first class.
Alumni Spotlight: Kendall Carll's Journey to Global Leadership Lovejoy ISD is proud to celebrate Kendall Carll, a member of the Lovejoy High School Class of 2022, whose remarkable achievements continue to exemplify Leopard excellence. Following his graduation from Lovejoy High School, Kendall completed his undergraduate studies at Harvard University and was recently selected as a Schwarzman Scholar, one of the world's most prestigious graduate fellowship programs. This fall, he will continue his studies in China as part of an exceptional cohort of future global leaders. In addition to these outstanding accomplishments, Kendall has generously chosen to sponsor a Harvard Book Prize for a Lovejoy High School student, creating a meaningful opportunity to recognize future Leopards for academic excellence. Kendall's dedication to giving back reflects the values and character fostered throughout his time at Lovejoy ISD. The district is grateful for his generosity, proud of his accomplishments, and excited to watch the impact he will continue to make on the global stage. Congratulations, Kendall! The entire Lovejoy community is cheering you on every step of the way.
Alumni Spotlight: Lovejoy Graduates Reel in Historic Achievement Lovejoy ISD proudly celebrates Ben Burns (Class of 2022) and Grant Pursifull (Class of 2024) for their historic achievement on the national stage. Competing for Stephen F. Austin State University, Ben and Grant became the first team in history to repeat as Bassmaster College All-Americans, earning back-toback Legends Trail Team of the Year titles and securing another opportunity to compete in the College Classic Bracket. Their success reflects the dedication, teamwork, resilience, and competitive spirit that have defined them throughout their journey, from their time at Lovejoy High School to competing among the nation's top collegiate anglers. Lovejoy ISD congratulates Ben and Grant on this incredible accomplishment and looks forward to watching them continue to make history. Once a Leopard, always a Leopard!
STUDENT HEALTH Advisory Council Do you work in the health industry? Are you a parent or community member who is interested in supporting the health and wellness of students in Lovejoy? Lovejoy ISD is seeking individuals who would like to serve on our School Health Advisory Council, otherwise known as SHAC. What is SHAC? A SHAC (School Health Advisory Council) is a school board-appointed advisory group of individuals who represent different segments of the community. By law, a majority of the members must be persons who are parents of students enrolled in the district and who are not employed by the district. The LISD SHAC is made up of parents, community members, students, and school staff working together to improve the health of all students and families through coordinated school health programs What is the time commitment? Our committee meets 4 to 6 times a year from 4:30 - 6:00 p.m. We ask that members be willing to serve for two years, if possible, to support continuity. How do I let someone know I am interested? Please send a letter of interest to shac@lovejoyisd.net detailing your connection to Lovejoy ISD, including any information about your connections to health and wellness and the schools your students attend (if applicable). This information allows us to develop a committee that is representative of our district.
PLAN AHEAD WITH LOVEJOY
Every school day is an important opportunity for learning and growth! We appreciate your partnership in making sure students are at school each day so they can learn and make the most of every opportunity. Thank you for helping us make every day of learning count by planning ahead and scheduling meaningful family vacations and special time together during school breaks.
DISTRICT Calendar
CALENDAR EVENT LINKS
STUDENT CALENDAR
DISTRICT CALENDAR
CAMPUS CALENDARS
ATHLETICS CALENDAR
FINE ARTS CALENDAR
Campus, District, and Athletics Calendars are linked above for the convenience of our community. *Please note event dates, times and locations are subject to change and should be verified by participants.
LOVEJOY FOOTBALL Camp Leopards from grades 1st - 9th gathered at Lovejoy High School for the 3rd annual Leopard Football Camp. Running fast and hitting the hard, the 1st through 6th graders competed in punt, pass and kick competitions, offensive and defensive drills and competed in "Leopard Ball," a fast paced simplified version of football focused on developing the fundamentals of football in a fun way. The 3rd and 4th graders stole the show in Leopard Ball with three consecutive days of battles that came down to the final possessions. The older groups hit the practice fields and learned the basics of Lovejoy Football's offense and defense. Overall, the Leopards won the week by getting a week's worth of work in three days.
Success CHEER CAMP Lovejoy Cheer had an outstanding showing at summer cheer camp, earning recognition across multiple events and competitions. Star Jumpers – 1st Place Emma Lambert Katie Park Star Tumbling – 1st Place Addie Gray Jaxyn Houk Star Stunting – 1st Place Group 1: Ivy Dardano, Lacey Anderson, Semaj Slaughter, Zoe Manley, Ainsley Askew Group 2: Katie Park, Addison McGuire, Abby Evans, Kailyn Aubel All-American Cheerleader Caroline Hays Zoe Manley Carson Fox (1st Place) Katie Mitchell Kendall Stubing Emily Myers Addie Gray Addison McGuire Achievement Award JV Squad Game Day Awards Freshman Squad – Runner-Up JV Squad – 1st Place Varsity Squad – 1st Place
Lovejoy ISD will continue to have a clear bag policy for events held at Leopard Stadium. There will be a security check at the gate upon entry, and a strict no re-entry policy will be enforced.
to purchase football tickets
2026-2027
START
p a m d a o R
FINISH
SAFETY & SECURITY
New Lovejoy ISD School Times LCDC PreKindergarten 7:40 AM - 3:05 PM Hart and Puster Elementary Schools 7:50 AM - 3:15 PM Sloan Creek Intermediate School 7:40 AM - 3:05 PM Willow Springs Middle School 8:35 AM - 4:00 PM Lovejoy High School 8:40 AM - 4:15 PM
Early Release Hours Hart and Puster Elementary Schools 7:50 AM - 11:55 AM Sloan Creek Intermediate School 7:40 AM - 11:45 AM Willow Springs Middle School 8:35 AM - 12:45 PM Lovejoy High School 8:40 AM - 1:05 PM
Got school supplies?! Campus school supply lists are linked below for your convenience! Hart Elementary School Supplies School ID: HAR290 Hart Supply List Link Puster Elementary School Supply List School ID: PUS011 Puster Supply List Link Sloan Creek Intermediate Supply List Sloan Creek Supply List Link Willow Springs Middle School WSMS Supply List Link
Lovejoy HIgh School Supply Lists will be communicated by each teacher during the first few days of school. Ample time will be given for students/families to purchase supplies.
Lovejoy Families, We are excited to welcome students back to school on August 12th! In preparation for the 2026-2027 school year, Lovejoy ISD has opened student registration in Skyward for new and returning students. Student registration records contain extremely important contact and safety information that must be updated annually; therefore, class lists and schedules will only be released if student registration is complete. released if student registration is complete. To complete the student registration process for the 2026-2027 school year through the Skyward Family Access, please complete the following steps: For Students New to Lovejoy ISD Create your account and enroll your student here. Complete all steps Upload all required documents Submit your application Your campus registrar will notify you via email when the application is approved and the process is complete For Returning Students or Students Who Have Been Previously Enrolled in Lovejoy ISD On July 16, Skyward sent your credentials to the user account email you used to register your student in Powerschool. This email contains: Your Skyward username A personalized link to create your password and activate your account If you did not receive this email from Skyward, please contact your campus registrar. Important: Your Skyward account must be activated using the personalized link included in that email. If you have not received or located the message, please check your inbox, spam, or junk folder. Skyward Family Access allows parents and guardians to: Verify student and family demographic information Complete registration for new and returning students Update important student information or documentation
Class lists and schedules were released on Thursday , August 6th at 4:00 p.m. through Skyward for students with completed registration forms. Please carefully read the Annual Registration section for additional details and deadlines.
If you have questions regarding your student's schedule, please contact a School Administrator or their Counselor.
Bus Routes Available Here
Transportation Resources Parent Letter - Transportation Expectations LISD Transportation Website Link To request late registration email Transportation@LovejoyISD.net and they will provide waiting list instructions. Please note: Bus service may be delayed or denied due to late registration.
Lovejoy ISD continues to partner with AlphaBEST After School Program to support community and staff needs for after school and student holiday child care in grades PreK-6. Benefits of Program:
AlphaBEST
Afterschool
Pre-K-6th After School Child Care Enrichment opportunities provided Extended care until 6:30 PM Flexible 5 day or 3 day options Students from HES, PES and SCIS will be transported to LCDC in order to access the after school programming.
Reminder: Go to AlphaBEST’s website to enroll your children today!
1:1 Devices Grades 5-12 Lovejoy ISD is pleased to announce that we will be continuing the 1:1 Chromebook initiative for each student in grades 5 - 12 for the 2026-2027 school year. Technology is an important tool for learning when used in balanced, age-appropriate ways. By pairing technology with exceptional teaching, we create engaging learning experiences that strengthen collaboration, deepen understanding, and prepare students for future success. For additional information on the 1:1 program you can access the helpful links below. FAQ Website Link Students in grades issued a district Chromebook will receive their device during 2nd period on the first day of school. Chromebooks will already be placed in each 2nd period classroom, allowing for a smooth and efficient distribution process. Students should simply report to their scheduled 2nd period class, where they will receive their assigned device
Campus Device Roll out Schedule Devices will be distributed to students on the following dates: LHS Students (Grades 9-12) August 12th | During School Hours SCIS Students (Grades 5–6) August 12th | During School Hours WSMS Students (Grades 7–8) August 12th | During School Hours
Parents with students in grades 5-12 are encouraged to purchase our student device protection plan on their district issued device via iTurity. This low cost protection plan ($25) will cover any repair associated with your child's device no matter how many times it is damaged throughout the school year. (Please note that lost or stolen devices and chargers cannot be covered). Without the protection plan, you will be responsible for the cost of any repairs needed for your student’s device up to the cost of a full device replacement ($400). Reminder: Enroll for device insurance on the iTurity website! The device protection plan enrollment period runs until September 1st, so sign up now!
The safety and well-being of our students and staff are of paramount importance. Consequently, maintaining a secure environment remains a primary objective within the Lovejoy Independent School District. During the current academic year, the district aims to enhance its existing emergency management protocols by leveraging established platforms such as Raptor and Centegix SPAT Technology, alongside updated radio communication systems approved by the Board of Trustees. Lovejoy ISD recognizes parents as essential partners in the educational process and strongly encourages family engagement on our campuses. To ensure a secure and orderly learning environment, all visitors are required to adhere to the following operational protocols: Utilize designated visitor parking areas exclusively. Access school facilities solely through the primary front entrance. Register at the reception desk by presenting a valid government-issued photo identification, and ensure the visitor badge is returned upon departure. For more Lovejoy ISD Safety and Security information click here to visit our website.
COMMUNICATIONS
Enhancements
Communication is key to a successful school year, and we are committed to keeping our families informed and engaged. As part of this commitment and in support of our Lovejoy Excellence by Design Strategic Plan 3.3 to "further our legacy of excellence through connection, communication, celebration, and community" Lovejoy ISD uses enhanced communication tools that make it easier than ever for families to stay connected with their schools and the District.
NEWSLETTERS
Newsletters Lovejoy ISD uses Engage, a collaborative newsletter platform that enhances the ability of our teachers, programs, and departments to work together and share information. While our newsletters feature a new look, they continue to provide the same great information. District and campus newsletters are delivered through Engage.
Mass Communications Lovejoy ISD uses an integrated communication platform that connects directly with our website and social media channels. This system allows the District to deliver important information quickly and efficiently across multiple communication channels, especially during emergencies. Please save the following numbers in your phone so you can easily recognize official Lovejoy ISD communications:
TEXT MESSAGES
98900 & 27806
WE ARE SWITCHING TEXTING NUMBERS.
SAVE OUR NUMBERS
98900 - IMPORTANT District and Campus communications, including safety and security, school closures, and more! Parents are strongly encouraged to NOT opt out of these text messages 27806 - Lovejoy ISD mobile app notifications, including classroom announcements and teacher messages. Parents may opt out of these text messages if desired.
Lovejoy ISD uses a modern instructional communication platform designed to strengthen family engagement and improve communication between teachers, students, and parents. The platform provides a streamlined, user-friendly experience that keeps families informed, connected, and involved in their students' educational journey. Fully integrated with the Lovejoy ISD mobile app, it makes it easy to access classroom updates, important announcements, assignments, and direct messages from teachers, all in one convenient place. Exciting features include: Unified communication through the Lovejoy ISD mobile app Classroom announcements and updates Instant Message style two-way communications in a safe, secure place Parents with more than one child can easily see each student’s classroom communications in one place Prefer to use a desktop? No problem. A computer-based platform is available. Automatic message translation settings
Lovejoy ISD’s mobile app is a great resource for parents and students on the go! Easily access instructional updates, teacher messages, district news, social media, event calendars, staff directories, and menus. Update “Notification Preferences” “Subscribe” to Lovejoy ISD and your students’ campuses.
Ensuring your child has funds for lunch is easy with MySchoolBucks! This convenient online payment system allows you to quickly add money to your child's meal account. MySchoolBucks website: Create an account or log into an existing account Add your child's school and student ID Fund the account using a credit/debit card or bank account. Set up automatic payments if desired Click here to visit the Student Nutrition website for additional information. Lovejoy ISD is uniquely special as a result of the active involvement of parents. Your willingness to serve in a volunteer capacity is greatly appreciated. Lovejoy ISD's volunteer background check application is now open for the 2026-2027 school year. A new application must be submitted every year. Click here to learn more and submit an application.
Lovejoy Parent Teacher Organizations help provide meaningful experiences and resources for Lovejoy students and staff in cooperation with Lovejoy campuses. Lovejoy PTO's offer a variety of ways to participate - click here to learn more and join today!
LEOPARD LIFE Website The Leopard Life website is a new addition to Lovejoy’s ways to stay engaged. School related flyers and community news will be shared on the Leopard Life. This week's featured flyers are: Leopard Mini Cheer Camp (Aug. 29) Homecoming Mums (Oct.1) Community News Can't remember where you saw a flyer? Not a problem! Leopard Life is connected to all campus newsletters, Connect with Katie, campus websites, AND Lovejoy ISD mobile app!
Connect with Katie . August 7, 2026. Issue 02