BEYOND THE BRUSHSTROKES
TCISD art students launch their talent
INSIDER 2025 THE
THE INSIDER 2025
FROM THE SUPERINTENDENT
Together, We Grow: Celebrating Our Students and Looking Ahead
As the school year comes to an end, I’ve been thinking about the students who walk into our schools each day — curious, determined and full of potential. In Texas City ISD, this year has been about more than just awards or numbers. It’s been about the young people we’ve encouraged, supported and watched grow.
From our youngest learners to high school seniors, our students have shown us what they can achieve when they have people who believe in them. Whether it’s a Pre-K student exploring how things move during a hands-on science activity or a senior gaining recognition at a national competition in industrial crafts, our focus has stayed the same: to give every student the chance to learn, to discover what they love and to feel confident in themselves.
One of the most exciting steps forward this year is happening right now. Construction is nearly complete on the new Calvin Vincent Early Childhood Center, which will open this August. This new space is built especially for our youngest children, with playful, hands-on activities that will help them explore, ask questions and learn through doing. We know these early years matter deeply and this center is one way we are giving our children the best possible start.
All across the district, learning has come to life in big and small ways. Our students have built robots and taken part in science and math programs. They’ve performed in bands and theatre productions, competed on sports teams and created incredible artwork. They’ve shared meals with neighbors in need, helped senior citizens and spoken up for what they care about. Some of our older students earned real-world experience through new job training programs, while others earned top honors in state and national contests. Our youngest children even took part in special STEM and robotics camps. Every single one of these moments matters.
What makes this even more meaningful is that our students have not just grown in knowledge, but in confidence, creativity and compassion. They’ve learned the value of teamwork, the power of persistence and the joy that comes from helping others. We’ve seen students speak proudly in two languages, lead kindness rallies and show up for their classmates and communities.
And while we are proud of what has been accomplished this year, we’re even more excited about what’s next. The road ahead is full of promise. We will keep doing what works — helping students build strong reading, writing, math and problem-solving skills — but we’ll also keep encouraging them to be kind, brave and curious.
Our families, teachers and community partners are an important part of this journey. Together, we’re creating a place where every child is seen, supported and celebrated. Together, we’re building not just better schools, but a stronger future for all of us.
I am so proud to serve in this district and to cheer on the amazing kids who are at the heart of everything we do. Thank you for being part of their story.
Dr. Melissa Duarte Superintendent of Schools
BEYOND THE BRUSHSTROKES
Inside NASA’s Johnson Space Center, among engineers, astronauts and scientists, hangs a stunning 8-by-12-foot mural created by La Marque High School art students. The artwork a cosmic scene featuring life-size astronauts, swirling nebulas and a mirror where viewers can see themselves as space explorers — is now a permanent installation in NASA’s Command Center.
The students behind the project juniors Alex Vargas and Rayne Luna, along with senior Lucas Solis spent weeks bringing the vision to life, collaborating with classmates and students from Blocker and Giles middle schools to build what NASA called a “blown away” result.
“It was mainly just collaborating with each other,” Vargas said. “We did a bunch of rough sketches on just normal paper, we did some planning and we also looked up some color palettes and stuff to help us.”
The concept grew from a phone call art teacher Joan Finn received unexpectedly.
“I was minding my own business and I got a phone call from NASA,” Finn said. “They said they were interested in local high school students doing murals for
“Giles and Blocker did the background for the piece,” Luna explained. “Then we took pieces of paper that they made TCISD art students launch their talent
them. I said, ‘Well, that’s fabulous.’ They only asked for one mural. And then we gave them three.”
Finn knew the opportunity was rare. With the Texas Art Education Association (TAEA) conference happening in Galveston around the same time and its theme focused on space she turned the project into a large-scale initiative. NASA displayed the murals at its conference booth before taking them back to Johnson Space Center, where they now hang in a prominent location.
The central mural depicts two astronauts standing on the moon, backdropped by the Milky Way and distant galaxies. A mirror embedded in each astronaut’s helmet invites viewers to “visualize yourself as an astronaut,” Vargas said. “Which I believe if you put in enough work, you could be.”
Luna summed up the theme simply: “Chasing after your dreams.”
The mural also reflects teamwork across campuses. Students at Blocker and Giles painted individual elements like nebulas and the Milky Way.
ON PAGE 4
doing the nebulas and the Milky Way, we put it on the backdrop and then we made it blend in better with our colors to make it seem like one big, giant piece.”
“We made it a bit more cohesive,” Solis added. “We glued them together and reorganized the composition to make it fit better. But everything was used that they made.”
While the middle schoolers focused on space phenomena, the La Marque High School team tackled the moon surface and the astronauts themselves. The scale of the work brought its own challenges.
“We started with tracing and Ms. Finn said that we were taking forever,” Luna said with a laugh.
Finn recalled the logistical hurdles vividly.
“The piece is 8x12 feet. And we were doing three murals at once. We needed space,” she said. “Mr. Nicholson finally let me use an empty room down the hall. We did those murals in two weeks. It was an incredible challenge, but they rose to the challenge.”
The team committed hours beyond the school day and came during the weekends and after school. Luna estimated over 30 hours of her studio time went into the mural. Finn calculated nearly 100 hours total for the team, including evenings and weekends.
“Every day after school, except for one day,” she said. “Two Saturdays, a Sunday. And they worked during the school day too.”
Even after painting, students helped assemble the mural and prepare it for
installation. While NASA installed the murals, the students had to finish them.
For the students, the experience left a lasting impact.
“It’s definitely a huge accomplishment,” Vargas said. “Knowing that my art our art is installed in NASA permanently, where everyone can see it for hundreds or maybe millions of years.”
Solis echoed the sentiment.
“It’s really remarkable to see that. It’s gonna keep me going,” he said. “It’s gonna keep me motivated to keep making art for the rest of my life. I will never stop doing it. It’s amazing.”
Luna said it’s something she’ll carry with her, especially in hard times.
“Personally, I think it’s very inspiring. I think if you’re going through a tough time with your art, or with yourself… you can just look back and remember, ‘Hey, I did this thing. My piece is in NASA right now. I can do this. I can work. I can be better,’” she said.
Finn said the mural’s significance goes even deeper it depicts the Gateway Project, NASA’s next phase of space exploration.
“It’s displayed in the Command Center where everything happens,” she said. “Astronauts. Nuclear physicists. Rocket scientists. School children. Everyone sees it.”
She added that NASA was especially thrilled by how many students and schools were involved.
“We ruined it for everybody else,” she joked. “Now they’re gonna expect exactly what they got from us.”
LEFT
Solis, Vargas and Luna pictured with their mural in NASA’s Command Center at the Johnson Space Center.
TOP LEFT
LMHS art students work on one of the three murals they created for NASA
TOP RIGHT
LMHS art students put the finishing touches on one of the three murals they created for NASA.
RIGHT
Luna, Solis and Vargas had to layout and organize individual background artwork that was created by art students at Blocker and Giles middle schools.
La Marque High School students Rayne Luna, Lucas Solis and Alex Vargas piece together elements for their NASA mural. COVER
DANCING THROUGH HERITAGE
Heights’ celebration unites generations and cultures
On a warm spring morning in May, the halls of Heights Elementary School pulsed with music, movement and tradition. Colorful costumes twirled through the gym as students performed traditional dances and the sound of Texas City High School’s Mariachi Raya echoed through the building. For another year, the Heights Cinco de Mayo program proved why it’s become the must-see event in Texas City ISD.
The program, held annually in early May, has grown from a simple classroom celebration into a full-scale cultural showcase, drawing families, community members and even alumni back to the Heights campus.
What began more than two decades ago as a volunteer effort has since evolved into a beloved Heights tradition, thanks in large part to program coordinator and attendance clerk Hope Munoz.
“I have been working for TCISD for 25 years,” Munoz said. “I volunteered at Heights before I worked for the district. My two adult children went to Heights from Kindergarten through fourth grade. As a parent, I loved helping with whatever I could, usually helping with the Bilingual classes.”
Munoz’s passion for celebrating Hispanic heritage through music and dance took root years before she became a staff member. She recalled being
thrilled when teachers at the time invited her to help with Cinco de Mayo activities.
“When Cinco de Mayo came around, the teachers had planned to have a program and I was so excited to help with dances and activities,” she said.
In 1999, Munoz joined Heights as a bilingual paraprofessional and continued to expand her role in the program.
“As the years passed, I was more involved and tried to do this big performance for our parents and bring back memories of our ancestors with traditional dances. We had Mariachi bands, Folkloric dancers, even dancers from different states of Mexico. Through the years, it became a great production,” she said.
That production now includes dances from across Mexican states and beyond — incorporating a wide variety of genres such as Norteño, Cumbia and even modern dance styles. Each year brings a fresh lineup of music and performances, often opening with a live Mariachi band or a visiting Folkloric dance group. The spotlight then turns to Heights’ bilingual and dual language students, who perform skits and dances celebrating the meaning and history of Cinco de Mayo.
“Usually for our programs we open with a Mariachi Band, or Folkloric Dancers and then we have all our bilingual classrooms and now dual
CONTINUED ON PAGE 8
language classrooms performing a dance or skit about Cinco de Mayo,” Munoz said.
The program has always been about more than entertainment. At its core, the event serves an educational purpose helping students understand and take pride in their heritage while giving families a chance to reconnect with their own traditions.
“I like to let students know that being bilingual is empowering and not something to be ashamed of. That they should use this to their advantage,” Munoz said. “Dancing to these traditional songs is a part of the rich, cultural diversity in the United States.”
The students, many of them dressed in vibrant embroidered dresses or charro-style suits, spend weeks learning choreography and the cultural significance behind their performances. Families play an active role as well helping with costumes, volunteering at the event and packing the audience with cheers and applause on performance day.
“Parents are always waiting for the program to see what their children are going to be dancing to,” Munoz said. “They all get excited about what costumes they’re going to be wearing and they are ready to help.”
The Cinco de Mayo program has become a point of pride for the entire Heights Elementary community. Staff and students prepare for months, knowing that the event brings the school’s mission of inclusion and cultural celebration to life in a powerful and
TOP
MIDDLE LEFT
First grade Dual Language students Anaeli Correa and Rowenna Roberts, front row; along with Melany Juarez Alvarado and Jaime Alonzo, back row; perform during Heights Elementary’s 2025 Cinco de Mayo program.
MIDDLE RIGHT
Gabriel Hernandez, a second grade Dual Language student dances during Heights Elementary’s 2025 Cinco de Mayo program.
visible way.
“The Cinco de Mayo program has become a tradition at Heights because that’s what parents want to see,” Munoz said. “They love seeing their children performing for them. It also brings back memories of their countries and traditions from when they were young. It is a celebration of our Hispanic heritage and an opportunity for the different cultures to learn about each other.”
What once started as a simple dance program for a handful of bilingual classrooms has now become a city-wide draw. With dual language students from kindergarten through second grade now participating, the audience has grown to include families from across Texas City. Word has spread and attendance continues to climb each year.
“People from all over town know about the Cinco de Mayo program,” Munoz said. “Now with our dual classes, we have a broader number of students from all over the community.”
The annual program has become more than a performance it’s a living lesson in identity, pride and unity. It’s a time for families to reconnect with their roots and for students to shine while learning about the cultures that shape them.
For Munoz, seeing the students take pride in their heritage and watching families light up in the audience makes all the hard work worth it.
“It is a celebration of our Hispanic Heritage and an opportunity for the different cultures to learn about each other,” she said. “I love it.”
BOTTOM LEFT
Gisbell Moreno Chaco, a third grade bilingual student performs during Heights Elementary’s 2025 Cindo de Mayo program.
BOTTOM RIGHT
Dual Language second grade students Valeria Pimentel Gutierrez, Khari Myers and Penelope Vega perform in Heights Elementary’s 2025 Cindo de Mayo program.
PREVIOUS PAGE
Dual Language kindergarten students Peyton Thorns and Demetree Alexander perform in Heights Elementary’s 2025 Cindo de Mayo program.
Ximena Perez Mejia, a first grade student in TCISD’s Dual Language program, dances during her class’ performance at the Heights Elementary 2025 Cinco de Mayo program.
TOP RIGHT
ABOVE
BOTTOM RIGHT
A Woodrow Wilson senior helps serve donuts to senior citizens in the Nessler Center program.
TOP
A Woodrow Wilson senior plays bingo with several senior citizens in the Nessler program. Bingo games were a frequent activity.
A Woodrow Wilson senior shakes hands with a senior citizen in the Nessler Center program.
A Woodrow Wilson senior plays bingo with several senior citizens in the Nessler program. Bingo games were a frequent activity.
BUILDING BRIDGES
Texas City ISD seniors find purpose in serving elders
On a quiet Thursday morning at the Nessler Center, the room buzzed with laughter, chatter and the sound of Bingo balls being called out. But the callers weren’t staff members or longtime volunteers — they were high school seniors from Texas City ISD’s Woodrow Wilson DAEP and they’re changing perceptions one visit at a time.
The “Seniors Helping Seniors” program, launched in September 2024, brought together two very different groups: high school seniors nearing adulthood and senior citizens in the twilight of their lives. Every other week, students from the DAEP campus visited the city-sponsored Nessler Center Seniors Program to play games, serve food and engage in conversation with older adults. What started as a simple idea grew into something much more powerful — an experience built on mutual respect, service and connection.
Nathan Jackson, Director of Student Outreach and Intervention for Texas City ISD, created the program after witnessing something unexpected during a campus visit.
“When visiting the DAEP Campus some years back, I noticed the respect the students gave to an elderly substitute hall monitor,” Jackson said. “Instead of ignoring her requests, they all followed them immediately. Her presence brought out the softer and more gentle compliant side of our students.”
Jackson wanted to create more chances
for students to show that softer, more respectful side. With that goal in mind, he launched Seniors Helping Seniors at the start of the 2024–2025 school year. He scheduled the visits around Bingo Days at the Nessler Center because the activity encourages interaction and provides many opportunities for students to help out.
“Our students assist with all aspects of the bingo games,” Jackson said. “They assist elderly partners with card distribution and engage them in conversations while playing the rounds of bingo games. Sometimes our students lead the bingo sessions by calling out the numbers and letters from the electronic Bingo machine.”
Students also serve coffee, donuts and lunch during the visits. But the heart of the program lies in the conversations — moments where students and seniors share stories, memories and laughter.
The program creates a rare chance for high school seniors — many of whom came to DAEP due to behavior issues — to interact in a positive, meaningful way with members of the community.
“I just thought it would be neat to connect high school seniors who were on the cusp of beginning life as adults with senior citizens who are in the twilight of life and have lived adult lives for many years,” Jackson said. “The high school seniors respect and gain valuable knowledge from senior citizens while the senior citizens reflect on their youthful
CONTINUED ON PAGE 12
days and reminisce on good times from years past through our students.”
The response has been overwhelmingly positive. Seniors at the Nessler Center now ask about the students by name. They look forward to the visits and often share stories from their younger days. On the other side, students talk about the experience when they return to campus. Many ask to go again.
Jackson rewards students who volunteer by recognizing them publicly. Their photos go up on a wall at the DAEP campus and Jackson calls parents to share the good news.
“Both students and parents feel a sense of pride after program participation,” he said. “It serves as a great way for the student’s DAEP-related mistakes to take a back seat to the student’s positive actions moving forward.”
That recognition helps change the narrative for students at DAEP, a program designed to help students get back on track. Volunteering at the Nessler Center gives them a sense of purpose and shows them how their actions can affect others.
Students make visits every other week, depending on enrollment at DAEP. Jackson said the schedule sometimes pauses when there are no senior students on campus, which led him to consider adding students from Inspire Academy next year to keep the program going year-round.
Jackson also has plans for a donation drive at DAEP. The goal is to collect small prizes that the senior citizens can win during Bingo games. That effort would help the Nessler Center continue offering fun, meaningful activities during the visits.
Even though the program is less than a year old, Jackson believes it has already made a deep impact — both for the high school students and the older adults they serve.
“The senior citizens love it,” he said. “And so do the students.”
He added that by creating a space where young people and elders connect, the program offers more than just volunteer hours or entertainment. It fosters empathy, encourages growth and builds community across generations. It gives high school seniors a chance to rewrite their stories and gives senior citizens a reason to smile.
Jackson plans to continue Seniors Helping Seniors into the next school year, expanding its reach and deepening its roots in the community. And if the laughter and smiles at the Nessler Center were any sign, this is a program with a long future ahead.
“My hope is that as high school seniors, they will leave school more in tune with a side of themselves that will help them be most successful in society,” he said.
LEFT
Seniors from Woodrow Wilson pose for a group picture with senior citizens from the Nessler Center Seniors Program, along with Nathan Jackson, TCISD’s director of student outreach and intervention.
STAY CONNECTED
TCISD offers diverse communication channels
Texas City ISD recognizes the importance of communication and employs a variety of channels to keep parents, students and the broader community informed and involved.
Social Media
Social media has become an indispensable tool for communication, and TCISD uses several platforms to reach our community.
•Facebook (@TCISD): TCISD’s Facebook page is a hub for real-time updates, event announcements and important information. Follow the page to stay informed about upcoming events and celebratory posts highlighting student and staff achievements and district initiatives, school closures and emergency notifications.
•Instagram (@texascityisd): On Instagram, TCISD shares photos and reels that capture the spirit and activities within the district. From photos of classroom projects and sports events to stories showcasing student and staff accomplishments, TCISD’s Instagram is a personal and engaging way to connect.
•LinkedIn (@texascityisd): TCISD uses LinkedIn to connect with professionals and showcase the district’s achievements and opportunities.
TCISD Talks Podcast
The TCISD Talks podcast engages with our community through storytelling and in-depth discussions. The podcast covers a wide range of topics, including educational initiatives, interviews with staff and students and discussions about upcoming
events. Find us on Apple Podcasts, Spotify or online at www.tcisd.org/tcisdtalks.
TCISD Today E-Newsletter
To ensure that parents and community members receive regular updates, TCISD publishes the TCISD Today weekly e-newsletter. This e-newsletter features a mix of news, highlights of students and staff successes and timely information on upcoming events. Subscribers receive updates directly in their inbox. Subscribe to the e-newsletter at www.tcisd.org/ subscribe.
Other Communication Channels
TCISD also uses several other methods to communicate with its stakeholders.
•District Website: The TCISD website www.tcisd.org is a central source of information, including district policies, calendars, contact information and resources for students and families.
•Automated Phone Calls, Text Messages and Emails: For urgent notifications and reminders, TCISD uses the ParentSquare app for automated phone calls and emails. This ensures that critical information, such as weather-related closures or emergency alerts, reach families promptly. To ensure receipt of these messages, parents should make sure their contact information is current in their Skyward Family Access account. Texas City ISD is committed to providing effective communication to its families and community. These efforts not only keep everyone updated but also foster a strong, connected and supportive educational environment. Join us and stay connected to Texas City ISD!
A YEAR
IN PICTURES
Download the calendar from our website at www.tcisd.org/calendar.
2025-2026 SCHOOL SUPPLY LIST BACK TO SCHOOL
PRE-KINDERGARTEN
q 2 box of facial tissues
q 2 8-oz. bottles school glue
q 2 glue sticks
q 1 box Ziploc bags (quart)
q 1 box Ziploc bags (gallon)
q 1 pkg. paper plates (no styrofoam)
q 1 roll paper towels
q 1 box crayons
q Dry erase markers
q Watercolors
q 1 pkg. of socks in your child’s size
q 1 pkg. of underwear in your child’s size
q 1 clear backpack (non-rolling, not mesh) with child’s name on straps only
KINDERGARTEN
q 1 pair youth metal scissors
q 2 8-oz. bottles school glue
q 2 pkgs. 6-count glue sticks
q 2 large pink erasers
q 1 pkg. manila paper, 9x12
q 1 pkg. construction paper, 9x12
q 1 plastic school supply box
q 1 3-ring pencil pouch
q 1 primary composition notebook
q 2 spiral notebooks, wide-ruled
q 2 pkgs. 4-count black dry erase markers
q 1 pkg. 8-count washable markers
q 4 large boxes of facial tissue
q 2 12-oz. bottles of hand sanitizer
q 2 highlighters
q 1 pkg. baby wipes
q 2 pkgs. 12-count No. 2 pencils
q 1 pair over-the-head headphones (no wireless or earbuds)
q 4 boxes 24-count crayons
q Boys: 1 pkg. 9-inch paper plates
1 box gallon Ziploc bags
q Girls: 1 box sandwich Ziploc bags
1 box quart Ziploc bags
q 1 backpack (non-rolling)
1ST GRADE
q 1 pair youth metal scissors
q 2 pkgs. 12-count No. 2 pencils
q 3 boxes 24-count basic color crayons
q 1 16-oz. bottle school glue
q 1 pkg. assorted construction paper, 9x12
q 1 plastic school supply box
q 2 pkgs. 6-count glue sticks
q 2 composition notebooks, wide-ruled
q 2 yellow highlighters
q 1 backpack (non-rolling)
q 2 large boxes facial tissue
q 4 pink erasers
q 2 8-oz. bottles hand sanitizer
q 4 vinyl folders with pockets and brads
q 2 pkgs. 4-count black dry erase markers
q Girls: 2 boxes quart Ziploc bags
q Boys: 1 box gallon Ziploc bags
q 1 pair of USB headphones (no wireless)
2ND GRADE
q 1 pair pointed scissors
q 3 pkgs. 12-count No. 2 pencils
q 3 boxes 24-count basic color crayons
q 2 pkgs. 6-count glue sticks
q 4 spiral notebooks, wide-ruled (70-count)
q 2 pkgs. 4-count black dry erase markers
q 2 pink erasers
q 1 zipper pouch or pencil box
q 1 1-inch white binder
q 1 pkg. 5-count dividers
q 1 backpack (non-rolling)
q 6 large boxes facial tissue
q 2 8-oz. bottles hand sanitizer
q 3 plastic/vinyl folders with pockets and brads
q 1 box colored pencils
q 1 box bold markers
q 1 pkg. baby wipes
q 1 pair of USB headphones (not wireless)
q Girls: 1 box quart Ziploc bags
q Boys: 1 box gallon Ziploc bags
3RD GRADE
q 1 pair pointed scissors
q 3 pkgs. 12-count No. 2 pencils
q 2 pkgs. 6-count glue sticks
q 2 spiral notebooks, wide-ruled (70-count)
q 4 pkgs. notebook paper, wide-ruled
q 1 zipper pencil pouch (no box)
q 2 pkgs. pencil cap erasers
q 2 pkgs. index cards
q 3 boxes colored pencils
q 4 composition books
q 4 yellow highlighters
q 1 pkg. 4-count black dry erase markers
q 1 backpack (non-rolling)
q 4 large boxes facial tissue
q 2 8-oz. bottles hand sanitizer
q 5 plastic/vinyl folders with pockets and brads
q 1 pair of USB headphones (not wireless)
q Girls: 1 box quart Ziploc bags
q Boys: 1 box gallon Ziploc bags
4TH GRADE
q 1 pair pointed scissors
q 3 pkgs. 12-count No. 2 pencils
q 2 boxes 24-count basic color crayons
q 2 pkgs. 6-count glue sticks
q 2 spiral notebooks
q 2 pkgs. 4-count thin black dry erase markers
q 1 zipper pencil pouch (no box)
q 2 pkgs. pencil cap erasers
q 1 box map pencils
q 4 composition notebooks
q 3-ring binder, 1-inch
q 2 yellow highlighters
q 1 backpack (non-rolling)
q 4 large boxes facial tissue
q 5 plastic/vinyl folders with pockets and brads
q 1 pair of USB headphones (not wireless)
q Girls: 1 box quart Ziploc bags
1 pkg. notebook paper (wide-ruled)
q Boys: 1 box gallon Ziploc bags
1 8-oz. bottle hand sanitizer
5TH GRADE
q 3 pkgs. 12-count No. 2 pencils
q 1 pkgs. 6-count glue sticks
q 3 spiral notebooks
q 2 pkgs. 4-count black dry erase markers
q 1 zipper pencil pouch (no box)
q 2 pkgs. pencil cap erasers
q 2 pkgs. notebook paper, wide-ruled
q 4 pkgs. index cards
q 1 box colored pencils
q 5 composition notebooks
q 3 large boxes facial tissue
q 2 plastic/vinyl folders with pockets and brads
q 1 pair of USB headphones (not wireless)
q Girls: 1 box quart Ziploc bags
q Boys: 1 box gallon Ziploc bags
6TH
GRADE
q 3 pkgs. 12-count No. 2 pencils
q 2 pkgs. 8-count blue or black pens
q 3 glue sticks
q 6 spiral notebooks
q 2 pkgs. 4-count thin black dry erase markers
q 1 zipper pencil pouch (no box)
q 2 pkgs. pencil cap erasers
q 6 pkgs. notebook paper, wide-ruled
q 2 pkgs. index cards
q 3 boxes map pencils
q 2 composition notebooks
q 1 handheld pencil sharpener
q 4 large boxes facial tissue
q 6 plastic/vinyl folders with pockets and brads
q 1 pair of USB headphones (not wireless)
q Girls: 1 box quart Ziploc bags
q Boys: 1 box gallon Ziploc bags
7TH-12TH GRADES
q Students will need notebook paper, pens, pencils, spiral notebooks, folders and binders. Specific teacher supply lists will be provided on the first day of school.
q 1 pair of earbuds
* Additional supplies may be requested by the teacher on the first day of school. Please send all supplies at one time. Put your child’s name on all outdoor clothing and backpack straps. Supplies should be replaced throughout the year. Rolling backpacks are not acceptable.
BACK TO SCHOOL
P3 CAMPUS
Texas City ISD uses an anonymous tip reporting application called P3 Campus, a vital tool that has proven to keep our schools and students safe.
School community members can report about a wide range of concerns, from mental health issues to threats of violence through our P3 Campus mobile app or through any web browser at P3 Campus.com.
Download the free app today on your phone and encourage your students to do the same. If you know about a potential threat, please report it immediately.
SAFETY RESPONSE PROTOCOL
Texas City ISD has adopted the “I Love You Guys” Foundation’s Standard Response Protocol. Students and staff will be training, practicing and drilling the protocol throughout the year.
WHAT IS A SECURE EVENT?
Secure is called when there is something dangerous outside the building. Students and staff are brought into the building and doors are locked. The event may not be on school grounds.
SHOULD PARENTS COME TO THE SCHOOL DURING A SECURE EVENT?
No. Every effort is made to conduct classes as normal during a Secure event.
WILL PARENTS BE NOTIFIED WHEN A SCHOOL GOES INTO SECURE?
When a Secure event is brief or the hazard is non-violent, like a stray animal on the playground, there may not be a need to notify parents while the Secure is in place. With longer or more intense events, the school should notify parents that the school has increased their security. Please note, we will communicate once accurate information is gathered and verified.
WHAT
IS
A LOCKDOWN EVENT?
A Lockdown is called when there is something dangerous inside the building. Students and staff are trained to enter or remain in a room that can be locked and maintain silence. A Lockdown is only initiated when there is an active threat inside or very close to the building.
SHOULD PARENTS COME TO THE SCHOOL DURING A LOCKDOWN?
The natural inclination for parents is to go to the school during a Lockdown. It’s understandable, but perhaps problematic. If there is a threat inside the building, law enforcement will be responding. It is unlikely that parents will be granted access to the building or even the campus. If parents are already in the school, they will be instructed to Lockdown as well.
SUPERINTENDENT’S ACADEMIC ACHIEVEMENT AWARDS
This award promotes academic excellence and recognizes students who demonstrate exemplary academic scholarship in grades 6-12. Students must maintain an A average for every course each semester, meet attendance requirements each semester and maintain an excellent discipline record in order to receive the award. The Academic Achievement Award recipients are listed with the number of years they have received the award.
12TH GRADE
Anthony Agruso, 1
Isabella Allred, 5
Alexa Beard, 1
Catelyn Bell, 2
Joseph Blakeman, 3
Shailyn Christian, 1
Tanner Davis, 3
Logan Deromie, 1
Jorge Desantiago, 1
Callie Dupree, 3
Kyren Franklin, 1
David Fuentes, 7
Mckinzie Gaitan, 1
Alexis Garza Boren, 1
Desirae Gauna, 5
Emily Gomez, 1
Jayden Hernandez, 1
Courtney Hodges, 1
Jamal Hurt, 5
Elise Johnson, 1
Kennedi Justice, 1
Crysta Kelly, 1
Tristan Krahel, 1
Melanie Lerma, 2
Samuel Levesque, 2
Kelis Lewis, 1
Kiara Lindsey, 2
Daisy Martinez, 3
Victoria Mayes, 2
Sophia Ministerio, 5
Brooklyn Mitchell, 1
Kylee Oberholtzer, 1
Luzdivina Olazaran, 1
Abigail Owens, 5
Madison Owens, 5
Joshua Perez, 2
Jenna Povse, 2
Caybree Presley, 3
Trinity Rawls, 1
Joshua Richmond, 1
Adison Roark, 1
Ava Rojas, 4
Ava Salenger, 2
Mariah Scott, 1
Mya Sharkey, 1
Lucas Solis, 2
Melanie Surovik, 7
Kailey Thompson, 7
Alexander Tinney, 2
Katherine Tsikis, 2
Elizabeth Venegas, 1
Leawana Williams, 2
Tiana Williams, 1
Amisadai Yanez, 1
11TH GRADE
Consuelo Ayala, 1
Audrina Benavides, 3
Kylee Briones, 1
Jeremy Calvert, 1
Elizabeth Carnes, 2
Jordan Cortez-Squier, 6
Tori Elizondo, 3
Nathaniel Fox, 7
Abrielle Garcia, 1
Alyssa Garcia, 1
Bralyn Harris, 6
Randi Henderson, 6
Cory Hosea, 1
Aiden Howell, 1
Edyna Ikaria, 1
Alesandro Martinez, 7
Jenna Mayor, 7
Ricky Meno, 3
Stanley Meno, 1
Connor Morgan, 6
Jackie Perez, 3
Patience Salusbury, 7
Kassidy Scanlon, 2
Julia Selvera, 4
Isabel Spotted Bear, 1
Abby Stokes, 7
Alaina Travis, 2
10TH GRADE
Kalissa Aguirre, 1
Kamden Barton, 5
Mica Chapman, 5
J’Lynn Davis, 4
Kennedy Rudolph, 3
Katherine Salazar, 4
Joseph Salenger, 5
Natalie Tran, 5
Connor Trevino, 1
Moises Vega, 3
Forrest Weaks, 5
Keairys Wells, 2
9TH GRADE
Kyra Addison, 3
Fatima Aguilera, 1
Isabel Campos, 4
Luis Cantera, 4
Christopher Castano, 4
Morgan Castille, 4
Julia Chapman, 4
Jacee Davis, 1
Gabrielle English, 4
Hunter Follis, 2
Trinyti Garrett, 1
Alayna Gerhardt, 1
Gavin Gutierrez, 3
Nolan Kelemen, 1
Ayden Lazzaro Marenco, 1
Avery Lozano, 4
Alexis Mayeux, 4
Adrian Muniz, 1
Venters Ni, 2
Courtland Nicholson, 1
Angelica Pereira Carollo, 3
Alina Smith, 3
8TH GRADE
Yahaira Alvarez, 3
Bethany Barker, 3
Samiah Daniels, 2
Alberto Estrada, 2
Leonardo Fabela, 1
Zaid Fabela Perez, 2
Katelynn Gallagher, 2
Serenity Gray, 2
Zachary Gutierrez, 3
Yaretzi Lucio Hernandez, 1
Kimberly Lundy, 1
Peyton Manis, 2
Addisyn Pool, 1
Abigail Rivas, 3
Saidy Rosales Padilla, 1
Tori Sendejas, 3
Kaszandra Vallejo, 1
7TH GRADE
Daylen Armstrong, 2
Scarlett Bell, 2
Ella Castillo, 2
Charlotte Godeaux, 2
Alwin Gonzalez-Valentin, 1
Noah Johnston, 2
Favors Kuate, 1
Raynie Lee, 2
Kimberly Mbugua, 1
Jayden McCray, 1
Leonardo Ortiz, 2
Manuel Solis, 2
Ryelin Valencia, 1
Jadynn Walker, 2
Levi Williams, 1
6TH GRADE
Joseph Bage, 1
Natalie Barragan, 1
Brooke Baugh, 1
Hadley Byrd, 1
Mellany Davis, 1
Layla Farha, 1
Sirenity Langley, 1
Kathy Ma, 1
Abigail Mann, 1
Izabella Marcellino, 1
Amora Mayes, 1
Keaton Moore, 1
Leonel Ochoa, 1
Johnathon Plues, 1
Alexander Ramirez, 1
Hadley Salazar, 1
Bryan Urquia, 1
Cora Weaks, 1
Lova Weller Coon, 1
Avery Whalen, 1
LMHS VALEDICTORIAN
LMHS SALUTATORIAN
TCHS VALEDICTORIAN
TCHS SALUTATORIAN
Jurnee Lee
Isabella Alex Allred
Anthony Wev
Jamal Hurt
STAFF UPDATES
Texas City ISD announces new administrators for the 2025-26 school year
DOUGLAS PROMOTED TO DIRECTOR OF CAREER & TECHNICAL EDUCATION
Jodi Douglas has been named Director of Career and Technical Education for Texas City ISD. With 20 years in education, Douglas brings a background in instruction, coaching and campus leadership. She has served as a CTE teacher, department chair, coach, assistant principal and most recently as the ECHS Administrator at LMHS.
BENFORD PROMOTED TO LMHS ASST. PRINCIPAL, ECHS ADMINISTRATOR
Dr. Mokysha Benford has been named the Early College High School Administrator and Assistant Principal at La Marque High School. Benford brings 26 years of educational experience, including her recent impact as the Instructional Specialist at Simms Elementary. She has served in various leadership roles from campus and district to higher education.
BOND 2022 UPDATES
CALVIN
VINCENT
EARLY CHILDHOOD
Construction crews are in the process of completing the final touches at the new Calvin Vincent Early Childhood center. The campus will soon have its critical inspections in preparation of a July 22 finish date. It will open for students on the first day of school, Aug. 13 and an open house for parents and the community will be Aug. 4 from 5-7 p.m.
TCISD AGRICULTURE CENTER
The design development phase for the TCISD Agriculture Center has been completed. With the design phase complete, crews are now waiting on permits to begin construction.
CHAPMAN PROMOTED TO ASST. PRINCIPAL AT LEVI FRY
Dr. Jessica Chapman has been named Assistant Principal at Levi Fry Intermediate. With 15 years in education, including the past 3 years in TCISD, Chapman brings a strong instructional background and a passion for supporting both students and teachers. She most recently was an Instructional Specialist at Giles Middle School.
LA MARQUE HIGH SCHOOL
Construction on the new La Marque High School is progressing. Exterior framing was completed this past spring and crews have started interior work. The campus is scheduled for completion following Spring Break 2026.
TCHS RENOVATIONS
Renovations to Texas City High School’s dance room and the culinary arts classroom are progressing and are expected to be complete for the start of the 2025-2026 school year.
To stay up-to-date on bond projects, visit www.tcisd.org/bond22.
Texas City ISD, its students and staff continued a tradition of excellence this school year by earning prestigious awards in many areas.
HEIGHTS ELEMENTARY NAMED NATIONAL MODEL PLC CAMPUS
Heights Elementary has been recognized as a National Model PLC Campus by Solution Tree, an honor reserved for some of the highest-performing schools around the world! To earn this prestigious designation, Heights Elementary demonstrated a strong commitment to Professional Learning Communities (PLC) at Work concepts, successfully implementing them for over three years while showing clear evidence of improved student learning. They will continue providing yearly data to maintain this status.
TCHS FUTURE EDUCATORS QUALIFY FOR NATIONALS
Seven Texas City High School students advanced to the Educators Rising National competition in Orlando! They included Kayla O’Neal and Gabby Pereira Salazar, Project Visualize Service; Hayden Milner, Interactive Bulletin Board; Layla Parson, Public Speaking; Aubree Newland, Project Visualize Service; Patience Salusbury and Jenna Mayor, Children’s Literature (Pre-K); and Gabby Pereira
Salazar, Children’s Literature (Pre-K - Spanish). Their teacher is Christina Hartsfield.
GILES COUGAR DOLLS BRING HOME BIG WINS AT REGION
The Giles Middle School Cougar Dolls traveled to Richmond to compete in the Showtime International Regional Dance Competitionand they dominated the floor! Award Highlights: Solo Finalist Runner-Up – 8th Grader, Lilly G.; 1st Place – Team Pom; 1st Place – Team Jazz; 1st Place –Team Military; Judges Award; Sweepstakes Award; Grand Champion Director Award; Team Grand Champion Award for Jr. High. Their coach is Quineshia Thomas.
q TCISD RECEIVES CAUDILL AWARD FOR STEM CENTER DESIGN
Texas City ISD received the Caudill Award, the highest honor in the Exhibit of School Architecture competition hosted by TASA and TASB! Our TCISD Marathon STEM and Robotics Center, designed by Pfluger Architects, Inc., transformed a former gym turned storage building into a state-of-the-art educational hub, complete with a robotics arena, classrooms,
breakout spaces and a makerspace. This innovative space is designed to inspire creativity, collaboration and future-ready learning for our PreK-12 students. Recognized for its transformative impact, innovative design and value to the community, this award is a testament to our unwavering commitment to supporting student success and STEM leadership.
TCHS, LMHS POWERLIFTERS ADVANCE TO STATE
Two boys powerlifters from Texas City High School and two girls powerlifters from La Marque High School advanced to the State powerlifting meet this year. TCHS’s Brayln Harris and Kenneth Williams, along with LMHS’s Jordyn Oliphant and Jayden Wilburn represented TCISD at the state meets. The LMHS coach is Amber Rozier and TCHS coaches are Chase Stewart and Jermain Anderson.
p KELLEY EARNS GRAND CHAMPION AT HOUSTON LIVESTOCK SHOW & RODEO
Texas City High School senior BG Kelley won Grand Champion for broilers at the Houston Livestock Show & Rodeo! His hard work, dedication and commitment to excellence paid off with this incredible achievement. His teacher is Nikki Ashcraft.
LMHS BASKETBALL EARNS ALL-DISTRICT HONORS
A huge congratulations to our La Marque Cougar basketball players and Coach Kevin Wilcox for their outstanding All-District selections! Major Awards included Derrick Edison, Sixth Man of the Year; Brendan Harris, Defensive MVP; Jasiya Johnson, District MVP; and Kevin Wilcox, Coach of the Year. First Team players included Je’Caryous Oliver, Brandon Harris, Joshua Minix, Mar’Ziah Bell, Jasiya Johnson, Brendan Harris and Derrick Edison. Second Team players included Jorden Lusk. Four players were named to the All-Academic Team.
p BLOCKER CHOIR EARNS SWEEPSTAKES AWARD
Under the direction of Ms. Glydell Obate, the Blocker Middle School Choir received straight 1’s at UIL and earned the prestigious Sweepstakes Award.
ITC CARPENTRY STUDENTS EARN TOP AWARDS AT DESIGN BUILD CONTEST
Carpentry students from the Industrial Trades Center competed at the CIEF Design Build Competition at Lone Star College North Harris County, showcasing their carpentry, engineering and design skills against 14 high school teams. Their hard work, creativity, and teamwork led to some incredible achievements! Team
Achievement: 3rd Place Best in Show – Open Portion! Individual Awards: Kalila Thompson –Wayne Johnson Safety Person of the Year Award; Kylee Briones – Construction Manager of the Year (First-ever recipient!); and Lee Taylor – Instructor Safety Award Team Members included Kylee Briones, Jordan CortezSquire, Bralyn Harris, Lincoln Pena, Kaden Pharis, Enrique Romero, Donovan Schloss, Kalila Thompson. The team was also selected for the statewide People’s Choice Award. Their teacher is Lee Taylor.
LMHS, TCHS ONE-ACT PLAYS RECEIVE AWARDS AT UIL CONTESTS
The La Marque High School One-Act play “To Be Young, Gifted & Black” is advanced from Bi-District to the Area contest. Cast and crew awards included Mar’kys Davis, outstanding technician; Amyrie Lavergne and Gavyn Stephaney, All Star Cast; Peightan Downey, Honorable Mention All-Star Cast; and Best Tech Crew Overall for the entire crew. Three Texas City High School students received honors at the District One-Act Play contest this year. Jamal Hurt was named to the All Star Cast, Malachi Bazor-Jenkins was named to the Honorable Mention All Star Cast and Heather Gray-Payne received the Best Technician Award. LMHS’s theatre teacher is Dana Joseph and TCHS’s theatre teacher is Thomas George.
q LMHS JAZZ BAND RECEIVES SUPERIOR RATING AT CONTEST
The La Marque High School Cougar Artistry Jazz Ensemble earned their first superior rating of the year at the Klein Forest HS Jazz Fest! Under the direction of Assistant Band Director Marvis Jones, these talented musicians brought the house down! All-Star Soloist Awards included Deddrick Handy – Trumpet and Malaisia Thomas – Trombone. Their directors are Marvis Jones and Kevin Black.
TCISD NAMED CTE DISTRICT OF DISTINCTION BY CTAT
Texas City ISD was named a CTE District of Distinction by the Career and Technical Association of Texas (CTAT)! This prestigious honor recognizes districts that excel in workforce readiness, innovation in CTE and student achievement. The CTE District of Distinction program celebrates districts that lead the way in preparing students for future careers by offering highquality Career and Technical Education (CTE) programs. Texas City ISD is committed to equipping students with the skills and certifications needed for success in today’s workforce. This recognition highlights Texas City ISD’s commitment to career readiness, industry partnerships and innovative programming that align with workforce needs. It also opens the door to new opportunities for collaboration with education and business leaders, ensuring continued
success for our students.
INDOOR PERCUSSION TEAM FINISHES FOURTH AT STATE
Texas City High School Indoor Percussion absolutely crushed it at the Texas Color Guard Circuit State Percussion Championships at Sam Houston State University, earning an incredible 4th place finish! Their directors are Ben Guillotte and Jared Angel.
CALVIN VINCENT FINALIST IN HEB EXCELLENCE IN EDUCATION AWARDS
Calvin Vincent Early Childhood Center was named a finalist in the 2025 H-E-B Excellence in Education Awards! This prestigious recognition celebrates the outstanding work of our staff and the incredible learning environment they create for our youngest learners every day. As a finalist, Calvin Vincent Early Childhood Center received $5,000 and competed in the statewide competition.
p TCHS FORENSICS MAKES HISTORY, PLACES AT STATE
For the first time ever, Texas City High School Forensics students made the podium at the SkillsUSA State Competition! The Forensic Science Team of Kylee Briones, Aidan Compton and Javier Dominguez placed third. Alyssa Garcia, Vanessa Hernandez, Genesis Lara, Miah Torres, Alexa Beard and Railynn Lasoya earned a Superior first place finish in Crime Scene Model Job Exhibit. Employability Certification Medalists included
Alexa Beard, Aidan Compton and Railynn Lasoya, gold; Alyssa Garcia, Miah Torres and Morris Wyatt, silver; and Kylee Briones, Javier Dominguez, Genesis Lara and Geronimo Zamora, bronze. Their coach is Abigail Davalos.
EIGHT TCISD ARTISTS EARN HLSR RODEO ART AWARDS
Eight Texas City ISD students who excelled in the 2025 Houston Livestock Show and Rodeo Art Contest! Their artwork was displayed in the Hayloft Gallery during the show and rodeo. Award winners included Addilyn Martin and Kyleigh Baker, Elementary Division; Estevan Quintanilla and Ana Dominguez Rivera, Middle School Division; and Hailey Bradberry, Brian Vicente, Monica Saldana and Aubree Newland, High School Division. Their teachers were Hannah Ballou, Mandy Peyrani, Jenn Massie, Desiree Haddock and Joan Finn.
TCISD STUDENTS ADVANCE TO STATE FCCLA CONTEST
Sixteen students from Texas City High School and La Marque High School showed off their talents at the FCCLA State Competition in Dallas. A special shoutout to Alexa Lozano and Regina Huerta from TCHS for making history as the first team from Texas City to place in the Top 5 at FCCLA State in Hospitality and Tourism - taking home 5th place overall in the state. Their teachers are Jill Greer and Tuan Nguyen.
OUR BOARD
DUTIES OF THE BOARD
The policies established by the board, acting as a body, are executed by the administration of the schools. Trustees adopt a budget, which is necessary to maintain and operate the schools, levy taxes to support the budget and submit bond issues to the district’s community to finance construction projects. The board also appoints the superintendent as its chief executive officer.
MEETINGS OF THE BOARD
Regular meetings are scheduled
on the second Tuesday of each month and are held in the board room of the Simpson Education Support Center, 1700 Ninth Avenue N., in Texas City.
Board meetings begin at 6:30 p.m. unless otherwise designated. When necessary, the board schedules other public meetings — special meetings, emergency meetings, study sessions and work sessions — to conduct additional business and for in-depth study of programs and issues.
DISTRICT 1
Melba Anderson
DISTRICT 2
Mable Pratt
DISTRICT 3 Nakisha Paul
DISTRICT 4 Lori Carnes
DISTRICT 5 David Moss
DISTRICT 6
Amber Prouty AT-LARGE Randy Dietel
The Asbestos Hazard Emergency Response Act of 1986 (AHERA) requires school districts to notify parents, students, faculty and employees annually of the presence of asbestos in the facilities and to inform them of how it is managed. The act also requires that a management plan be written and approved by the Texas Department of Health. Copies of TCISD’s approved management plan are available in the TCISD Business Office, the Maintenance Department and individual schools. For more information, contact Don Pursley, executive director of maintenance and operations, at 409-916-0141.
Check out just some of the highlights from around Texas City ISD during the 2024-2025 school year. PAGE 14
