SIDER LA PORTE ISD
THE OFFICIAL MAGAZINE OF LA PORTE INDEPENDENT SCHOOL DISTRICT
BULLDOG STADIUM
La Porte ISD welcomed the community into the newly built Bulldog Stadium for a few events to end the year! Page 10
CLASS OF 2025
This year’s senior class finished in style as the first graduating class at the new Bulldog Stadium.
Page 12
YOUNG ENTREPRENEURS
Fourth through sixth graders show their skills as future entrepreneurs! Page 19
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6
LEADERSHIP
A message from Superintendent Dr. Walter Jackson.
8
NEW FACES
Learn more about some of the newest faces in leadership for La Porte ISD.
17
FINE & PERFORMING ARTS
Read about the amazing success happening around the district.
Board of Trustees
Danny Hanks, President
Jeff Martin, Vice President
Mason Peres, Secretary
Melissa Crutcher, Trustee
Russell Schoppe, Trustee
Dee Anne Thomson, Trustee
Karen Wheeler-Hall, Trustee
Dr. Walter G. Jackson Superintendent of Schools 1002 San Jacinto La Porte, Texas 77572 281-604-7000 lpisd.org
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TEACHERS OF THE YEAR
Meet La Porte ISD’s 2025-2026 Teachers of the Year.
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ALUMNI SPOTLIGHT
Check out what is happening for a few of our LPISD Alumni!
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LP EXCELLENCE
LPISD was awarded a $250K grant to advance early literacy in our elementary schools!
La Porte ISD Insider
is a community magazine published by the La Porte ISD Communications Department to inform community members about La Porte Independent School District and its campuses.
Adam J. Holland Director of Communications & Community Relations
Devin Dozier Communications Coordinator
Amy Lott Secretary to Director of Communications & Community Relations
Penny Shawley Print Shop Technician
Esther Villatoro Clerk/Receptionist Communications
On the cover: A drone photo taken during the La Porte High School Commencement at Bulldog Stadium on May 30th, 2025. Photo taken by Sam Zaborowski.
LEADERSHIP
Greetings, La Porte ISD Stakeholders!
Today is a great day to be a Bulldog! The 2024-25 school year has officially come to a close, and I want to take a moment to thank our incredible community of parents, staff, and students. Throughout the year, our dedicated team of teachers, aides, bus drivers, nutrition workers, operations personnel, and administrators have continued to inspire me with their commitment and care.
We are also deeply grateful for our outstanding business partners and volunteers who have generously poured their time, talent, and resources into our schools. Your unwavering support has played a vital role in enriching student experiences, building strong community connections, and helping us move our mission forward. We couldn’t do it without you.
This year has been filled with accomplishments and milestones worth celebrating, including more than 475 La Porte High School graduates and 82 graduates from The Academy of Viola DeWalt High School. One of the most exciting highlights was seeing our students, athletes, and community members step onto the field of the new Bulldog Stadium before the school year ended. What a powerful and inspiring way to build momentum for the future!
Looking ahead, we are thrilled to share that a major renovation project is beginning in June at La Porte High School, thanks to the 2023 Bond. Construction is expected to take about a year, and when complete, our high school will feature a beautiful new grand entrance, an inviting courtyard, and many other improvements, including vital flood mitigation measures. This is a transformative time for the campus, and we can’t wait to see the impact these upgrades will have on our students and staff.
At La Porte ISD, our mission is to educate students in a caring and nurturing environment—year-round. This summer, our schools remain vibrant with academic acceleration programs, enrichment camps, athletic opportunities, and more. You can find a full list of summer programs and events at lpisd.org. We hope to see many smiling faces on our campuses throughout the summer!
Thank you for continuing to support La Porte ISD and for being an essential part of our Bulldog family.
In your service,
Dr. Walter Jackson Superintendent of Schools
La Porte
TEACHERS OF THE YEAR
DISTRICT TEACHERS OF THE YEAR
ELEMENTARY
Mrs. Prantle is La Porte ISD’s Elementary Teacher of the Year. She is a fourth grade science and social studies teacher at Leo A. Rizzuto Elementary School.
SECONDARY
Coach Neal is La Porte ISD’s Secondary Teacher of the Year. He is an 11th grade U.S. History teacher and coach at La Porte High School.
La Porte ISD campuses named their Teachers of the Year for the 2025-2026 school year. Campus honorees are chosen by their peers for their ability as skilled teachers and a love for teaching and learning, among several other characteristics. The Rotary Club of La Porte graciously awarded Prantle and Neal with $8,000 each for winning District Teacher of the Year.
ELEMENTARY CAMPUS TEACHERS OF THE YEAR
SECONDARY CAMPUS TEACHERS OF THE YEAR
PRINCIPALS OF THE YEAR
H. Baker
Linda Hyde of Heritage Elementary and Tracy Greenwood of James H. Baker Sixth Grade Campus are LPISD’s 2024-25 Principals of the Year. Honorees are selected based on criteria that contribute to staff and student success.
ROOKIE OF THE YEAR
Ashley Campbell is La Porte ISD’s Rookie Teacher of the Year. She is a second grade teacher at Jennie Reid Elementary. Higginbotham graciously awarded Campbell $1,000 to spend for winning the rookie honor.
NEW FACES
Dr. Bobby Martinez named Deputy Superintendent, Administration & Support Services
Dr. Martinez comes to La Porte from Alvin ISD where he was the Associate Superintendent of Secondary Education. A native of Texas City, Dr. Martinez began his career as a teacher and K-6 Assistant Principal in Texas City ISD. After his time at TCISD, he served as the campus principal of Fairview Junior High School and Manvel High School. He later shifted into a central office leadership role for Alvin ISD. He replaces Dr. Dustin Bromley, who left in April to serve as the Superintendent of Schools in Splendora ISD.
Dr. Amanda Smith named Director of Research & Accountability
Dr. Smith, with over 20 years in public education, joins La Porte ISD as Director of Research, Accountability and Federal Programs, bringing expertise in instructional leadership and program development. Starting as a middle school science teacher in Pearland ISD, she advanced to Director of Advanced Academics at Alvin ISD, leading gifted education, STEM, and advanced placement programs. Dr. Smith holds a doctorate from the University of Houston–Clear Lake, where she earned the Sandra Mossman Outstanding Dissertation Award, and was named the 2024 TAGT Administrator of the Year. As an adjunct professor and advocate for equitable academic opportunities, she is poised to lead La Porte ISD’s accountability and federal programs with excellence next year.
Joseph Chandler named Principal of The Academy of Viola DeWalt High School
Joseph Chandler, with 28 years of education experience, has served as a high school special education teacher, department chair, assistant principal, associate principal, and principal in urban, suburban, and rural Texas districts. He holds a bachelor’s from Saint Meinrad College and a master’s from the University of Houston, and during his tenure, led Macario Garcia Middle School to recognition for academic gains, guided Willowridge High School out of School Improvement Required status in two years with academic distinctions and higher graduation rates, and earned the 2019 Region 6 Innovative Principal Leadership Award while at Brenham High School.
Alisha Peralez named Principal of Lomax Elementary
Ms. Peralez, a dedicated educator and leader, brings over a decade of experience to Lomax Elementary, serving in various roles including classroom teacher, math interventionist, and assistant principal. She holds a Bachelor of Science in Interdisciplinary Studies from the University of Houston–Clear Lake and a Master of Education in Administration from Lamar University. Her passion for education and student achievement has been evident throughout her career, earning her the distinction of Lomax Elementary’s 2016–2017 Campus Teacher of the Year. With her strong instructional background and leadership experience, Ms. Peralez is wellpositioned to lead Lomax Elementary into its next chapter of excellence.
Candice Thibodeaux named Associate Principal of La Porte High School
Ms. Thibodeaux comes to La Porte High School from Clear Falls High School in Clear Creek ISD, where she has served as Assistant Principal since 2019. With 31 years in education as an English teacher, department chair, administrator intern, and assistant principal, she will be a strong addition to the LPHS leadership team. Ms. Thibodeaux holds a bachelor’s in Political Science and English from Texas A&M University and a master’s in Educational Leadership from Lamar University. Her passion is building strong relationships and ensuring success for all students by establishing strong systems that support instruction and understanding the value of recognizing student and staff growth accomplishments.
Brooke Watson named Assistant Principal of La Porte High School
Ms. Watson also comes to us from Clear Creek ISD, where she currently serves as math teacher and department chair at Clear Creek High School. She also serves on the campus leadership team and is also the PALS sponsor. In her 18 years of educational service, Ms. Watson has also been a math instructional coach and special education teacher in Dickinson ISD as well as an ESL teacher in Ethiopia through an innovative mission opportunity. She holds a bachelor’s in Human Development and Family Studies from Texas Tech University and a master’s in Educational Administration from Lamar University.
Matthew Boutin-Bloomberg named Assistant Principal of Lomax Junior High School
Matthew Boutin-Bloomberg joins La Porte ISD as the new assistant principal at Lomax Junior High. Mr. Bloomberg comes to us from Dickinson ISD with eight years of experience as a high school Social Studies teacher and team lead. Mr. Bloomberg was also a part of his district’s Aspiring Assistant Principal Academy during the 2024-2025 school year and had opportunities to serve as a leader on his campus. He holds a bachelor’s degree in history from the University of Houston and a master’s degree in administration from Lamar University. Please join me in welcoming Mr. Bloomberg to the La Porte ISD family!
Casey Dixon named Assistant Principal of James H. Baker 6th Grade Campus
Ms. Dixon, a La Porte alumna with 18 years in education, has been selected as the next assistant principal at Baker. She currently serves as the Math interventionist at Bayshore Elementary and has also been a teacher there since 2017. Prior to returning to La Porte, she was an elementary teacher in Deer Park ISD. She holds a Bachelor of Arts degree from East Texas Baptist University and a Master’s in Educational Administration from Lamar University. As a member of La Porte ISD’s Aspiring Leader Academy, Ms. Dixon understands the value of growth and development, and she is grateful for the phenomenal leaders who have poured into her leadership.
2025-2026 CAMPUS PRINCIPALS
BULLDOG STADIUM
Bulldog Stadium Off to a Memorable Start
The new Bulldog Stadium swung open its gates in unforgettable fashion, hosting three spectacular events that ignited the spirit of La Porte and brought our community together in celebration.
On May 15, the Spring Game and Grand Opening set the stage for an exhilarating evening of football, festivity, and pride. The night featured a ceremonial ribbon-cutting, a thrilling spring football game, and a tribute to our seniors from sports and fine arts programs, who were honored on the field, with the fine arts seniors performing at halftime.
Just one week later, on May 22, the stadium was filled with energy once again for the Superintendent’s Legacy Walk, promoting health and wellness across our district. Students and staff from across the district came together to walk laps on the new Bulldog Track for the first time.
And most recently, on May 30, the stadium glowed with emotion as we celebrated the Class of 2025 La Porte High School Commencement. Over 475 graduating seniors crossed the stage under the stadium lights, becoming the first class to graduate in this iconic new venue, creating memories that will last a lifetime.
In total, more than 14,000 people poured through the gates for these inaugural events, proving that Bulldog Stadium is far more than a venue—it’s a cornerstone for forging cherished memories and community pride.
We extend our deepest gratitude to the La Porte community for your unwavering support, infectious enthusiasm, and boundless pride. You’ve made these opening moments truly extraordinary. And this is just the beginning! Looking ahead, Bulldog Stadium will host vibrant community festivals and youth sporting events, further weaving the fabric of our town together. Stay tuned for an exciting lineup of events that will cement Bulldog Stadium as the beating heart of La Porte!
2025 GRADUATION
In late May, La Porte Independent School District proudly awarded over 550 diplomas to its exceptional graduating class of 2025. The Academy of Viola DeWalt High School upheld tradition with its commencement at Bulldog Centre, while La Porte High School’s seniors made history as the first to cross the stage at the stunning new Bulldog Stadium. This milestone moment was a thrilling celebration of achievement and community pride.
Among the Class of 2025, 56 La Porte High School seniors earned associate degrees from San Jacinto College before receiving their high school diplomas, showcasing their remarkable dedication. The class collectively secured over $1.5 million in scholarships to fuel their future aspirations. Additionally, through Career and Technical Education (CTE) programs, seniors earned 113 Industry-Based Certifications, equipping them with valuable skills for their next chapters.
Congratulations to our graduates for their outstanding accomplishments and for marking this historic occasion at Bulldog Stadium!
La Porte ISD Insider • 12
Class of 2025 Valedictorian & Salutatorian
Liz Olivera and Moaz Chatta are the valedictorian and salutatorian, respectively, of the La Porte High School Class of 2025. As the top graduates of their class, both demonstrated exceptional academic achievements, leadership, and dedication throughout their time at La Porte High School.
Liz Olivera
Olivera is the daughter of Lisdany Fonseca and Hector Olivera; She previously attended La Porte Junior High School.
At La Porte High School, she has held officer positions in various organizations, including Interact Club, National Honor Society, HABLA and Student Council. She has additionally served the community through organizations like the La Porte Youth Advisory Council, the La Porte Public Library Teen Advisory Board, and the Book Buddies program.
“Through these experiences, I’ve accumulated over 700 volunteer hours,” Olivera said. “Apart from my service, I have also been blessed to receive both AP Scholar with Honors and AP Scholar with Distinction, as well as making the San Jacinto College Dean’s List.”
Moaz Chatta
Chatta is the son of Nazia Firdous and Khalid Chatta. He attended Heritage Elementary School, James H. Baker Sixth and Lomax Jr. High School. He is a member of the Interact Club and National Honor Society.
“I am an AP Scholar with Honor and I have won multiple medals in Academic Decathlon such as second place in literature and top honors score on the team,” he said.
Olivera and Chatta both intend to major in biology to eventually enter medical school to become doctors. She plans to attend the University of Texas at Austin; he is planning to enroll at the University of Houston.
La Porte
SPRING ATHLETICS
La Porte High School Track Hurdles into State
La Porte High School senior Aryssa Rodriguez and junior Ulises Feliz upheld La Porte High School’s reputation as a statewide track and field powerhouse by finishing in the top 10 in the 300-meter hurdles at the state meet. Aryssa, a seasoned state competitor, capped off her high school career with this strong performance and will continue her athletic and academic journey at Lamar University. Ulises, who will be a senior next year, also impressed and is expected to return to the state stage in 2026.
REGION III 5A TRACK & FIELD CHAMPIONSHIPS QUALIFIERS
(Advanced from the Area Meet on April 9)
GIRLS REGIONAL QUALIFIERS
• Aryssa Rodriguez – 1st in the 300 hurdles; 3rd in the 100 hurdles
• Savonya Collins – 1st in the 800
• Gianna Palomarez – 3rd in the 3200; 4th in the 1600
• Jordyn Ramirez – 4th in the high jump
• Kallie Vaughn – 4th in the pole vault
• Aryssa Rodriguez, Jordyn Ramirez, Jakayla Glover, & Savonya Collins – 2nd in the 4x400 relay
BOYS REGIONAL QUALIFIERS
• Ulises Feliz – 1st in the 110 hurdles; 2nd in the 300 hurdles
• Roy Ramirez – 3rd in the 800
Eight student-athletes represented La Porte High School at the Region III 5A Championships following their outstanding performances at the Area Meet.
Bulldogs Win District, Bi-District Championships
Eight La Porte High School baseball players have been named to the 2025 20-5A All-District team, and six team members received Academic All-District honors. Head coach Ricky Torres, who led the Bulldogs to the district and bi-district championships, has been named the district’s Coach of the Year.
In selecting the all-district team, district coaches selected junior Adrian Delgadillo as the district’s Co-Most Valuable Player and sophomore Ryker Reynolds as the Offensive Player of the Year. The Bulldogs finished the regular season at 10-2 and advanced to the Area Round of the 2025 playoffs. This was the 23rd year in a row they have made the playoffs.
20-5A FIRST TEAM
Pitcher – Kylin Manning
Shortstop – Caleb Hill
Utility Player – Julian Jaramillo
20-5A SECOND TEAM
Second Baseman – Houston Bergeron
Outfielder – Carson Basile
20-5A HONORABLE MENTION
Utility Player – Brandon Pace
ACADEMIC ALL-DISTRICT
Bella Spears (trainer)
Julian Jaramillo
Keo Harmonson
Braeden Terry
Carson Basile
Matthew Maduzia
La Porte Soccer Well Represented on All-District Teams
Seven La Porte High School boys and six girls have been named to their respective 20-5A All-District Soccer teams. Nine players, meanwhile, have been named Academic All-District.
BOYS FIRST TEAM
Oso Lopez
Abraham Trejo
BOYS SECOND TEAM
Daniel Orozco
BOYS HONORABLE MENTION
Pavel Zapata
Ricardo Rodriguez
Noe Alipio
BOYS ACADEMIC ALL-DISTRICT
Abraham Trejo
Cristhofer Batres Ortiz
Ricardo Rodriguez
GIRLS FIRST TEAM
Mariana De La Rose
Alexa Garcia
GIRLS SECOND TEAM
Angiely Olvera
Dania Martinez
GIRLS HONORABLE MENTION
Cielo Sanchez
Emily De La Cruz
GIRLS ACADEMIC ALL-DISTRICT
Cielo Sanchez
Emily De La Cruz
Ariana Valadez
Marlaye Moch
Nina Tristan
Alexa Garcia
Power Lifting Sets Historic State Finish
For the second straight year – and only the third time in school history – La Porte High School was represented at the Texas High School Women’s Power Lifting Association State Championships.
Freshman Hannah Stafford and sophomore Samantha Gilder finished eighth and fifteenth at the March 15 THSWPA State Championships, respectively. Stafford’s finish is the best ever for a La Porte High School power-lifter; they are also the first duo in school history to advance to State.
They set a combined six personal records in the process.
“I couldn’t be prouder of these two young women,” Head Girls Power Lifting Coach Beck Neal said. “Not only have they put in the hard work and dedication needed to get to this point, but they’ve also made history for our program by advancing to state. This is a huge achievement, and it speaks volumes about their commitment, strength, and the incredible potential they have.”
National Signing Day - Spring 2025
Fourteen La Porte High School student-athletes on May 8 officially signed their national letters of intent, marking the next step in their athletic and academic journeys at the collegiate level. These students were honored during a special signing ceremony held at Bulldog Centre. This event celebrated their hard work, achievements, and commitment to continuing their sports careers while pursuing higher education.
Malik King-Miller, football, Tyler Jr. College
Caison Holley, football, East Texas Baptist University
Dejon Laws, football, Culver- Stockton College
Tyresse Barnes, football, East Texas Baptist University
Logan Pray, basketball, Southwestern College
Aryssa Rodriguez, cross country/track, Lamar University
Kaylee Hanks, dance, Blinn Jr. College
Austin Goetz, bowling, Newman University
Codee Shaw, cheer, East Texas Baptist University
Kennadie Arevalo, softball, Pratt Community College
Savonya Collins, cross country/track, Prairie View A&M University
Esmeralda Soto, softball, Paris Jr. College
Jordyn Ramirez, cross country/track, East Texas Baptist University
Kara Nava, dance, Stephen F. Austin University
ALUMNI SPOTLIGHT
Charlee Hall - University of the South
2021 La Porte High School graduate Charlee Hall earned a Mathematics degree with a Computer Science minor from the University of the South in Sewanee, Tennessee, in May. At Sewanee, she excelled as a scholar, leader, and musician. Charlee joined The Order of the Gown honor society as a freshman for her high GPA and was later named Outstanding Physics Student, earning induction into the physics honor society. As a University Choir member, she served as section leader and President, performing at notable venues like St. Paul’s Cathedral in London and York Minster in England. Beyond academics and music, Charlee trained as a student pilot with the Flying Tigers, working toward her private pilot’s license. She interned three summers at NASA’s Neutral Buoyancy Lab and one summer with Intuitive Machines, contributing to lunar lander development. This fall, Charlee will pursue a dual-degree program at Washington University in St. Louis for a bachelor’s in mechanical engineering and a master’s in engineering, focusing on Materials Science. Her talent and ambition position her for a bright future in science and engineering.
Koko Wooley - Texas A&M University Softball
La Porte Independent School District is thrilled to celebrate the remarkable achievements of our alumna, Koko Wooley, a senior shortstop who has left an indelible mark on the Texas A&M Aggies softball team during their historic 2025 season. Leading the Aggies to their first-ever No. 1 national ranking and a co-championship in the SEC Tournament, Wooley, a proud La Porte High School graduate, earned the prestigious Rawlings Gold Glove Award as the first Aggie for her exceptional defensive skills, boasting a .968 fielding percentage, 66 putouts, and 84 assists. Offensively, she shone with a .421 batting average, 19 stolen bases, and a game-changing walk-off two-RBI double in the SEC Tournament quarterfinals. Recognized on the 2025 USA Softball Top 53 Player of the Year Watch List, named SEC Player of the Week, and ranked fourth among shortstops by D1Softball, Wooley’s standout 3-for-3 performance with four runs against No. 21 Mississippi State and her record of starting all 212 career games highlight her transformative impact under coach Trisha Ford, despite the team’s early NCAA Tournament regional exit. La Porte ISD is immensely proud of Koko’s accomplishments, which reflect the dedication and excellence fostered in our community.
Ryan Schoppe - Oklahoma State University Cross Country & Track
La Porte Independent School District proudly honors our alumnus, Ryan Schoppe, a senior distance runner at Oklahoma State University, for his extraordinary achievements during the 2025 track and cross-country season. A La Porte High School graduate and former Texas 6A state champion in cross country and twotime 3,200m state champion, Schoppe has continued to excel, solidifying his status as one of the NCAA’s elite runners. In 2025, he anchored the Cowboy Distance Medley Relay (DMR) to its second consecutive NCAA title with a dramatic final kick, securing victory at the NCAA Indoor Championships. He also earned his first individual Big 12 title in the mile with a time of 4:02.73 and ran a historic 7:38.80 in the 3,000 meters at the Sharon Colyear-Danville Season Opener, marking the seventh-fastest time in NCAA history at the time. Recognized as a College Sports Communicators Academic All-American and OSU’s Male ScholarAthlete of the Year, Schoppe’s dedication on and off the track reflects the excellence fostered at La Porte High School. His leadership helped the Cowboys secure a fourth-place finish at the NCAA Cross Country Championships, where he finished among the top individual runners. Schoppe’s relentless work ethic and ability to perform under pressure continue to inspire current LPISD students, showcasing the heights achievable through talent and determination. La Porte ISD is immensely proud of Ryan’s continued success, as he carries the values of our community onto the national stage.
FINE & PERFORMING ARTS
La Porte ISD has once again been named one of the Best Communities for Music Education by the National Association of Music Merchants Foundation, marking its fifth consecutive year receiving this prestigious honor. This national recognition celebrates the district’s unwavering commitment to providing high-quality music education for all students, from elementary through high school.
To earn the designation, school districts must meet rigorous criteria, including music funding, participation rates, graduation requirements, and community support. Submissions are reviewed by the Music Research Institute at the University of Kansas. At LPISD, 100% of elementary students receive music education, and more than 80% of students in grades 6–12 are involved in music instruction—just one example of how deeply the arts are woven into the district’s culture.
That same dedication to arts education was reflected throughout LPISD’s Fine Arts Department in the 2024–25 school year. In music, the La Porte High School Marching Band earned the UIL Region Marching Sweepstakes and placed 12th overall as a UIL Area Marching Finalist. They also finished in the top five at the US Bands/Channelview Invitationals. The LPHS Indoor Drumline and Winter Guard earned 2nd and 5th place, respectively, in the Texas Colorguard Circuit. Fourteen ensembles received UIL Concert and Sight-Reading Evaluation Sweepstakes and Division I Awards, while the district celebrated 36 TMEA Region students, six Area qualifiers, and three All-State musicians. The year also featured the district’s inaugural LPISD Elementary Honor Choir Concert, spotlighting young talent.
The dance program reached a milestone as the La Porte High School Chatos participated in the Texas Dance Educators Association Dance Team Evaluation Pilot Program for the first time. They earned 22 team and individual awards, including Bestin-Class, three Grand Champion (class) titles, and six 1st Place Runner-Up awards. Senior Kaylee Hanks was also selected as an All-State Dance Participant.
In theatre, LPHS brought Joseph and the Amazing Technicolor Dreamcoat to life with a cast and crew of over 200 students and 45 volunteers. The department won the UIL One-Act Play District 5A championship and advanced to Bi-District, with eight individual student honors and 14 new inductees into the International Thespian Society.
Visual arts students also made their mark, with 30 students across all grade levels advancing as finalists in the Houston Livestock Show and Rodeo Art Competition. In addition, 31 LPHS art students will be featured in the Biannual Publication Anthology of Art, showcasing their work on a broader stage.
Together, these accomplishments demonstrate how La Porte ISD’s Fine Arts Department continues to inspire excellence, foster creativity, and build community through the arts.
Bulldog Band Shines with Honors at Multiple Events
La Porte High School’s band program is celebrating a season of remarkable achievements. The La Porte High School Indoor Drumline brought home the silver in Open Class at the TCGC State Championships at Sam Houston State University, while the La Porte High School Varsity Wind Ensemble and Symphonic Band earned the coveted Sweepstakes award at the 2025 UIL Concert & Sight-reading contest, held April 2-3 at Pasadena Dobie High School.
Both bands received composite Division One (superior) ratings from the judges, marking the pinnacle of success in the competition. The JV Concert Band also earned a Division One rating for its outstanding stage performance.
The La Porte High School Band staff is: Director of Bands Jason Harvey, Assistant Director and Percussion Director Mark Fennell, and Assistant Director Wilmaure Mejos.
ACADEMICS
Academic Decathlon Team Shines at State Championships
La Porte High School’s Academic Decathlon team has once again earned its spot among the best in Texas. In its third appearance at the State Championships in four years, the team brought home six medals from the Feb. 28-March 2 competition in Frisco.
The team advanced to State after winning 20 medals at the Jan. 25 Regional competition.
The Academic Decathlon is a team competition that challenges students to work together in teams to demonstrate their academic skills. The competition includes a series of events, such as tests, speeches, and interviews.
“Having watched our Academic Decathlon team grow and excel over the years, I am incredibly proud of their dedication and hard work,” said La Porte High School Principal Dr. Kade Griffin. “Establishing ourselves as one of the state’s best is a remarkable achievement, and it reflects the commitment, teamwork, and academic excellence our students demonstrate. This success is a testament to their passion for learning and the support they receive from our teachers and staff.”
La Porte High School social studies teacher Jaime Licon is the Academic Decathlon Coach; he is assisted by Ethan Fernau, who also a social studies teacher on the campus.
La Porte Students Visit Texas State Capitol for Advocacy and Recognition
Students from La Porte High School and the Superintendent’s Student Advisory Council took part in a special public school advocacy trip to the Texas State Capitol on March 26. The visit, designed to give students a firsthand look at the workings of the 89th Texas Legislature, was an initiative led by Superintendent Dr. Walter Jackson.
Dr. Jackson, who introduced similar programs during his tenure in Brenham ISD, envisioned the trip as a way to inspire civic engagement and leadership among students. The experience included meetings with elected officials, observation of legislative sessions, and a guided tour of the Capitol arranged by Senator Mayes Middleton’s office.
A memorable moment of the day came when the students were formally recognized from the floor of the Texas Senate—an honor that added depth and significance to the visit. Dr. Jackson was joined by Dr. Kade Griffin, La Porte High School Principal; Adam Holland, Director of Communications and Community Relations; Board Secretary Mason Peres; and several La Porte High School history teachers, who served as chaperones during the trip.
District officials noted that this visit marks the beginning of a new tradition in La Porte ISD, one that will alternate in future years with trips to the George H.W. Bush Presidential Library, continuing Dr. Jackson’s commitment to hands-on civic education.
YOUNG ENTREPRENEUR EXPO
This spring, La Porte ISD students had the chance to learn about building their own small businesses as part of the Young Entrepreneur Expo, a project of the La Porte-Bayshore Chamber of Commerce with La Porte ISD. Mentors from local businesses volunteered their time to lead students through a four-week curriculum about entrepreneurship that culminated in the March 1 Expo at the James H. Baker Sixth Grade Campus.
At the event, students showcased their own businesses, selling products ranging from homemade dog treats to hand-beaded bracelets to delicious lemonades. Community judges visited each booth, and two awards were presented at the end of the day. Bayshore Elementary’s Tropical Treats team—Ellie Bryan, Makena Haywood, Malaysia Louisy, Isabel Pascual, Hayven Walker and Danika Wendel-earned the Creative Vision Award. The Dazzle Den team from the Baker Sixth Grade Campus—Abigail Large, Alyss Moblo, Ella Thorn and Zayden Vasquez—won the Innovation Award. Scott Halbrooks, plant manager at presenting sponsor OxyChem La Porte VCM, presented trophies to both teams.
All participants had the opportunity to submit their individual business plans for consideration in the competition for Entrepreneur of the Year, which was awarded to Danika Wendel of Bayshore Elementary the Friday following the Expo.
La Porte ISD is grateful to the La Porte-Bayshore Chamber of Commerce for offering this opportunity to students as well as the many companies who sponsored the event. Mentors who volunteered their time to work with the students include Jenny Allen, Sweet Pea Coffee Co.; Preston Bearden, Bayou City Industrial Contractors; Melissa Crutcher, Texas Stress, Inc.; Amanda DeAlejandro, Community First ER; Thomas Green and Alicia Green, South Region Driving School; Jeremy Halling, Evergreen North American Industrial Services; Brandon Lunsford, Garden of Eden Floral and Tearoom; Frank Nance, Frank Nance State Farm; Carol Spruiell, 316 Realty/Dana Newell Team; Angie Thatcher, Air Products; and Megan Weaver, La Porte-Bayshore Chamber of Commerce.
LP EXCELLENCE
La Porte ISD Awarded $250K Grant to Advance Early Literacy
La Porte ISD has been awarded a $250,000 grant as one of eight winning districts selected from a competitive field of 16 finalists for the Texas Reads, Texas Leads initiative, a $3 million program funded by The Moody Foundation and the Charles Butt Foundation.
TXRL is a bold initiative aimed at transforming early literacy instruction in Texas by promoting evidence-based practices rooted in the science of teaching reading (STR) and blended learning pedagogy. Through this investment, La Porte ISD will implement its comprehensive K-3 Literacy Plan, which outlines strategic actions, key decision points, and targeted district investments to improve reading proficiency for students in kindergarten through third grade.
La Porte ISD’s selection as a TXRL grant recipient reflects the strength of its proposal and its commitment to ensuring all students master foundational reading skills by the end of third grade. The district will receive not only the $250,000 grant but also ongoing technical support and access to statewide learning communities through June 2027.
Originally selected as one of 16 finalist districts representing the geographic and demographic diversity of Texas, La Porte ISD stood out for its vision, leadership, and strategic approach to integrating STR-aligned practices throughout its schools. The finalist cohort included districts ranging in size from 2,000 to 56,000 students and spanned suburban, rural, and urban communities.
La Porte ISD will participate in continued professional learning, convenings, and implementation workshops throughout the 2024–2025 school year. This ongoing collaboration will further strengthen its efforts to improve K-3 literacy outcomes and serve as a model for districts across the state.
Award Winning Business Department
In 2025, La Porte Independent School District’s Business Office earned three prestigious awards for its exemplary financial and purchasing operations. The district secured its 11th consecutive Certificate of Excellence in Financial Reporting from the Association of School Business Officials (ASBO) International for its 2024 Comprehensive Annual Financial Report, recognized as the gold standard for transparency and accountability. Additionally, La Porte ISD received the Government Finance Officers Association (GFOA) Certificate of Achievement for Excellence in Financial Reporting for the same fiscal year, marking its 11th consecutive year of this high honor for clear and comprehensive financial disclosure.
Complementing these achievements, the Texas Association of School Business Officials (TASBO) awarded La Porte ISD the 2025 Award of Merit for Purchasing Operations, its fourth consecutive and seventh overall recognition for adhering to professional standards in procurement, celebrated at the TASBO annual conference back in February. These accolades highlight La Porte ISD’s commitment to financial transparency, effective communication with the community, and excellence in operational standards.
A NIGHT TO REMEMBER
Beacon Federal Credit Union Makes Dreams Come True at This Year’s Viola DeWalt High School Senior Prom
Beneath a canopy of soft lights and woodland charm, the seniors of The Academy of Viola DeWalt High School celebrated a magical milestone: their senior prom. Behind the evening’s enchantment stood a local partner with a heart for community, Beacon Federal Credit Union.
This year, Beacon Federal Credit Union stepped in as the official sponsor of the 2025 Senior Prom, covering everything from venue costs to decor, refreshments, and even the DJ. Their generous sponsorship ensured that no student missed out on the quintessential high school experience due to financial constraints.
“More Than a Bank”
“At Beacon, we believe in investing in our future, and that starts with our youth,” said Adelina Gomez-Abshire, Vice President of Business Development and Marketing at Beacon Federal Credit Union. “Prom is a rite of passage, and we wanted every student to have the opportunity to celebrate without worrying about the cost.”
Held at Sylvan Beach Pavilion in La Porte, the prom dazzled attendees with its “Enchanted Forest” ambiance, complete with magical décor, a photo booth, and a lively dance floor. For the 82 graduating seniors of The Academy of Viola DeWalt, it was an evening of joy, reflection, and gratitude.
Creating Moments That Matter
Teachers and administrators praised Beacon’s role in making the event accessible to all. Interim Principal Tremayne Wickliffe noted, “This partnership wasn’t just about financial support. It was about building community, celebrating resilience, and showing these students that their hard work is worth celebrating.”
Looking Ahead
As the class of 2025 turns the page and steps into the next chapter of their lives, Beacon’s sponsorship will be remembered not just as a gift, but as a message: You are valued. You are supported. And your dreams matter. Beacon Federal Credit Union has long been a staple in the local community, known for supporting education, financial literacy, and youth programs. Their investment in this prom continues a legacy of care that reaches far beyond numbers and balances.
For one glittering night, the seniors danced beneath the stars, supported by a community that believes in their future.
WE ARE LA PORTE
IMPORTANT DATES
7/4
7/25
7/30
8/4
8/4
8/5 LA PORTE
8/9 BACK TO SCHOOL BASH @ BAKER SIXTH GRADE CAMPUS
8/12
8/13
