Aug. 5, 2025 BoardBits

Decorative image: E-newsletter cover image

This e-newsletter highlights important news from the Aug. 5, 2025 regular meeting of the STISD Board of Directors (rescheduled from July 29) and other recent and upcoming district and campus happenings.


 

2025-2026 'Welcome Back' District Convocation - "From Ancient Myths to Future Minds"

STISD held its 2025-2026 District Convocation on Monday, Aug. 11, officially welcoming all faculty and staff for the new school year.

The theme this year was "From Ancient Myths to Future Minds," tying in with the STISD Summer Fine Arts Academy's performance of “The Lightning Thief: The Percy Jackson Musical” by arrangement with Concord Theatricals, and the keynote address delivered by Ravi Hutheesing, which focused on empowering students to pivot and succeed in an unpredictable tomorrow.

Watch the video below for highlights from the event.

 

 

 

Board President Henry LeVrier addresses crowd of faculty and staff during the 2025-2026 District Convocation
Keynote speaker Ravi Hutheesing addresses crowd of faculty and staff during the 2025-2026 District Convocation
Students bow after their performance of %22The Lightning Thief: The Percy Jackson Musical%22 during the 2025-2026 District Convocation
Superintendent of Schools Dr. Tony Lara addresses crowd of faculty and staff during the 2025-2026 District Convocation

 

STISD Recognizes Service Award Recipients for 2024-2025 School Year

STISD recognized the 2024-2025 service award recipients with 20 years or more with the district during the district "welcome back" convocation on Aug. 11.

Service award recipients reaching the 5, 10, and 15-year milestones will be recognized separately at each campus and/or department.

Click here for a list of this year's recipients

Pictured below: Some of the 2024-2025 service award recipients presented with tokens of appreciation from Dr. Marco Antonio Lara, Jr., Superintendent of Schools.

Dr. Lara, Superintendent of Schools, poses for picture with STISD employee Gerardo Monteagudo when presenting him with service award
Dr. Lara, Superintendent of Schools, poses for picture with STISD employee Alfredo Garza when presenting him with service award
Dr. Lara, Superintendent of Schools, poses for picture with STISD employee Maricela Hinojosa when presenting her with service award
Dr. Lara, Superintendent of Schools, poses for picture with STISD employee Ramon Longoria when presenting him with service award
Dr. Lara, Superintendent of Schools, poses for picture with STISD employee Sergio Cavazos when presenting him with service award

 

Congratulations: Board and Administration recognize STISD's first student athlete to sign a Division I Scholarship

Student athlete from Health Professions poses with campus and district staff and administration as he is recognized with certificate for earning the first Division I Scholarship to play Men's Volleyball

During the Aug. 5 meeting, the STISD Board of Directors and Administration recognized Health Professions graduate Ben Morocho for making history as the first STISD student athlete to sign a Division I athletic scholarship.

An official signing ceremony was held for him at the end of the school year, during which he signed his national letter of intent to play men's volleyball while pursuing his studies in business at Sacred Heart University in Fairfield, Connecticut, in the fall. 


 

History Made: District Swears in First-Ever Captain and Officers of the South Texas ISD Police Department

One year after launching its standalone district police department, STISD swore in its first-ever captain and eight officers during the Aug. 5 Board meeting.

With the support of the STISD Board, Chief Steven Cortez has worked alongside Dr. Marco Antonio Lara, Jr., STISD superintendent of schools, to expand the department across our campuses on a day-to-day basis.

Surrounded by their families, the officers took their oaths and received their pins - highlighting the deep commitment and personal sacrifice behind the badge.

STISD Police Captain and officers take oath of office during swearing in ceremony at STISD Board meeting
Board members and police department pose for a large group photo
STISD Chief of Police greeting guests at the swearing in ceremony of captain and officers
Officers lined up for photos at reception following the swearing in ceremony of captain and officers
Friends and family members pin the newly sworn in officers during the swearing in ceremony of police captain and officers
Friends and family members pin the newly sworn in officers during the swearing in ceremony of police captain and officers
Three officers standing during swearing in ceremony at STISD Board meeting
Friends and family members pin the newly sworn in officers during the swearing in ceremony of police captain and officers

 

Back to School Resources

Decorative image leading families to see back to school resources

The first day of the 2025-2026 School Year is Monday, Aug. 18. Be sure to review the B2S resources on the district website to prepare!

INSIDE:
📢 What’s Inside:
⏰ Bell Schedules – so you’re never late ⏰
📘 Student Handbook – all the need-to-knows
🍎 Free Breakfast & Lunch – yes, for EVERYONE! :)
🎒 Dress Code & Backpack Guidelines – bring your style, stow your cell
📆 School Calendars and Bell Schedules – plan ahead
🚌 Bus Schedules

Click to access the Back to School Resources


 

Reminder: New state law prohibits use of personal communication devices during school day

Decorative image showing the new Texas Law (House Bill 1481) banning the use of cell phones or electronic devices on school property during the school day

In accordance with new Texas law (House Bill 1481), effective the first day of the 2025-2026 School Year, students shall not use a personal communication device, including a cell phone, or other electronic device on school property during the school day and shall store the device in accordance with the method of storage established by the district. 
 
All personal devices must be brought to school powered off and stored securely in backpacks. No use is permitted during school hours, including passing periods and lunch.
 
We thank you for your understanding and support in complying with this state law.


 

Photo Recap: STISD Summer Fine Arts Academy presents "The Lightning Thief: The Percy Jackson Musical"

By arrangement with Concord Theatricals, the STISD Summer Fine Arts Academy performed "The Lightning Thief: The Percy Jackson Musical" for STISD families and the public on Aug. 10 and again for all district faculty and staff on Aug. 11.
 
THE LIGHTNING THIEF: THEATRE FOR YOUNG AUDIENCES EDITION
THE PERCY JACKSON MUSICAL
Book by
Joe Tracz
Music & Lyrics by
Rob Rokicki
Adapted from the book The Lightning Thief by Rick Riordan
Group photo of all cast, crew and staff who put together the STISD Summer Fine Arts Academy's performance of %22The Lightning Thief: The Percy Jackson Musical%22 by arrangement with Concord Theatricals.
Action shot of several characters on stage during the STISD Summer Fine Arts Academy's performance of %22The Lightning Thief: The Percy Jackson Musical%22 by arrangement with Concord Theatricals
The Oracle sings on stage during the STISD Summer Fine Arts Academy's performance of %22The Lightning Thief: The Percy Jackson Musical%22 by arrangement with Concord Theatricals
Action shot from battle in the STISD Summer Fine Arts Academy's performance of %22The Lightning Thief: The Percy Jackson Musical%22 by arrangement with Concord Theatricals
Action shot from battle in the STISD Summer Fine Arts Academy's performance of %22The Lightning Thief: The Percy Jackson Musical%22 by arrangement with Concord Theatricals
Action shot from battle in the STISD Summer Fine Arts Academy's performance of %22The Lightning Thief: The Percy Jackson Musical%22 by arrangement with Concord Theatricals
Action shot from scene in the STISD Summer Fine Arts Academy's performance of %22The Lightning Thief: The Percy Jackson Musical%22 by arrangement with Concord Theatricals
Action shot of Medusa singing in the STISD Summer Fine Arts Academy's performance of %22The Lightning Thief: The Percy Jackson Musical%22 by arrangement with Concord Theatricals
Action shot of Percy Jackson and his mother singing in the STISD Summer Fine Arts Academy's performance of %22The Lightning Thief: The Percy Jackson Musical%22 by arrangement with Concord Theatricals
Action shot from the STISD Summer Fine Arts Academy's performance of %22The Lightning Thief: The Percy Jackson Musical%22 by arrangement with Concord Theatricals
Action shot of Percy Jackson singing in the STISD Summer Fine Arts Academy's performance of %22The Lightning Thief: The Percy Jackson Musical%22 by arrangement with Concord Theatricals
Action shot from the STISD Summer Fine Arts Academy's performance of %22The Lightning Thief: The Percy Jackson Musical%22 by arrangement with Concord Theatricals
Action shot of Percy Jackson and Grover in the STISD Summer Fine Arts Academy's performance of %22The Lightning Thief: The Percy Jackson Musical%22 by arrangement with Concord Theatricals
Action shot of Percy Jackson in the STISD Summer Fine Arts Academy's performance of %22The Lightning Thief: The Percy Jackson Musical%22 by arrangement with Concord Theatricals
Action shot of Percy Jackson with Poseidon in the STISD Summer Fine Arts Academy's performance of %22The Lightning Thief: The Percy Jackson Musical%22 by arrangement with Concord Theatricals
Action shot from battle in the STISD Summer Fine Arts Academy's performance of %22The Lightning Thief: The Percy Jackson Musical%22 by arrangement with Concord Theatricals
Action shot of Clarisse singing in battle in the STISD Summer Fine Arts Academy's performance of %22The Lightning Thief: The Percy Jackson Musical%22 by arrangement with Concord Theatricals

 

Congrats, STISD Athletics! + RSA wins this year's TCSAAL Texas Cup

STISD district athletic coordinator and RSA coach accept trophy for RSA winning the Texas Charter School Academic & Athletic League Middle School Texas Cup for the second consecutive year

Congratulations to Rising Scholars Academy – two-time, back-to-back winner of the Texas Charter School Academic & Athletic League (TCSAAL) Middle School Texas Cup!

A huge shout-out to the coaching staff, athletes, administrators, and parents for your dedication and teamwork. Your hard work has paid off once again. Here’s to yet another big win for the campus and for all of STISD!

Other STISD standings: 👏🏼

  •  Preparatory Academy - 9th in state
  • Health Professions + Science Academy - tied for third place overall in state 🥉 

 


 

Save the Date: Meet the Teacher + Open House to be held Sept. 9-11

Meet the Teacher + Open House - Sept. 9-11 - flyer with two teachers in their classrooms

Join us for Meet the Teacher + Open House to be held Sept. 9-11, according to the following schedule:

  • 9 (Tuesday): Preparatory Academy (new-to-campus students only), Rising Scholars Academy (new-to-campus students only) + Science Academy (new and returning students)
  • 10 (Wednesday): Preparatory Academy (returning students), Rising Scholars Academy (returning students), and Virtual Academy (new and returning students)
    • Virtual Academy's Meet the Teacher/Open House will be held virtually. The link will be emailed to families.
  • 11 (Thursday): Health Professions, Medical Professions and World Scholars (new-to-campus and returning students)

 

Other Board actions

  • The Board approved the 2025-2026 STISD Student Code of Conduct. Click here to access the Student Code of Conduct
  • The Health Professions Gymnasium was approved by the Board as substantially complete.
  • The Board approved the 2025-2026 Stipends.
  • The Board approved Policy Update 125 and additional changes to Policy, as per Legislative Updates. The updated policies will be available through the South Texas ISD Board Policy Manual by clicking on "Policies" within the footer of the district website or clicking here to access it directly.
  • The Board voted to designate the district's remaining nonbusiness days for the purposes of Public Information Act Request responses for calendar year 2025. The board will vote on the nonbusiness days for 2026 once the 2026-2027 Academic Calendar is approved.

 

STISD Health + Wellness

STISD Social Emotional Learning and Mental Health Newsletter: Back to School 2025-2026

August 2025 Mental Health and Social Emotional Learning Newsletter

Call for Keynote & Speakers: STISD Special Programs to host Mental Health Conference

Decorative image seeking mental health presenters and a keynote speaker for upcoming Conference

STISD Special Programs will host "Paving the Way: Advancing School Mental Health Supports in South Texas" on Friday, Nov. 7, at the Teaching & Learning Center in Mercedes (7001 E. Expressway 83).

The conference aims to provide mental health tools and resources for counselors and professionals serving South Texas students.

STISD is inviting mental health professionals, educators and community leaders to submit proposals for keynote or session presentations.

Proposal deadline: Sept. 1
Click here to submit your proposal

For questions or concerns, please reach out to District Student Wellness Specialist: Nancy Talavera - nancy.talavera@stisd.net. 


 

Faculty/Staff News


 

Inside STISD Video Highlights

District Hosts 2025 Summer Fine Arts Academy

July 2025 Summer Camps Highlight

Preparatory Academy Introduces its Spirit Squad

June 2025 Summer Camps Highlight


 

Alumni Spotlight: Tyler Tomoser, Science Academy Class of 2010

Tyler Tomoser graduated from South Texas ISD Science Academy in 2010. After attending the University of Texas Pan American (UTPA), Tomoser went on to become an account manager for big companies such as Disney and Universal at BlueWave Resource Partners, a recruiting firm out of Orlando, Florida.


 

Upcoming Events

Sunday Monday Tuesday Wednesday Thursday Friday Saturday
Sunday, October 26
Monday, October 27
Tuesday, October 28
Board of Directors Meeting of the STISD Board of Directors
-
STISD Central Office Teaching and Learning Center (7001 E. Expressway 83, Mercedes)
Wednesday, October 29
Thursday, October 30
School STISD Dyslexia Parent Series: Session 2
-
In-person at Biblioteca Las Americas (300 Med High Dr., Mercedes) OR Virtual via Zoom (register for link)
Friday, October 31
Saturday, November 1
Sunday, November 2
Monday, November 3
School STISD Dyslexia Parent Series: Session 3
-
Virtual via Zoom (register for link)
Tuesday, November 4
Wednesday, November 5
Thursday, November 6
School Fall Family Literacy Parent Meeting: AI (Artificial Intelligence) & STISD: Empowering Parents for the Digital Age
-
STISD Central Office Teaching and Learning Center (7001 E. Expressway 83, Mercedes)
Friday, November 7
South Texas ISD STISD Mental Health Conference - "Paving the Way: Advancing School Mental Health Supports in South Texas"
-
STISD Teaching and Learning Center, 7001 E. Expressway 83, Mercedes, TX 78570
Saturday, November 8
Sunday, November 9
Monday, November 10
Tuesday, November 11
Thursday, November 13
Subscribe to Calendar Alerts School STISD Dyslexia Parent Series: Session 4
-
Virtual via Zoom (register for link)
Friday, November 14
Saturday, November 15
Sunday, November 16
Monday, November 17
Tuesday, November 18
Subscribe to Calendar Alerts Board of Directors Meeting of the STISD Board of Directors
-
STISD Central Office Teaching and Learning Center (7001 E. Expressway 83, Mercedes)
Wednesday, November 19
Thursday, November 20
Friday, November 21
Saturday, November 22
Sunday, November 23
Monday, November 24
Subscribe to Calendar Alerts School Thanksgiving Break (District holiday)
All Day
Central Office and all STISD campuses
Tuesday, November 25
Subscribe to Calendar Alerts School Thanksgiving Break (District holiday)
All Day
Central Office and all STISD campuses
Wednesday, November 26
Subscribe to Calendar Alerts School Thanksgiving Break (District holiday)
All Day
Central Office and all STISD campuses
Thursday, November 27
Subscribe to Calendar Alerts School Thanksgiving Break (District holiday)
All Day
Central Office and all STISD campuses
Friday, November 28
Subscribe to Calendar Alerts School Thanksgiving Break (District holiday)
All Day
Central Office and all STISD campuses
Saturday, November 29
Sunday, November 30
Monday, December 1
Tuesday, December 2
Wednesday, December 3
Thursday, December 4
Friday, December 5
Saturday, December 6

Calendar & Category Legend:

  • South Texas ISD South Texas ISD