The Montgomery High School Madrigal Choir delivered a stunning performance at the National Conference of the American Choral Directors Association (ACDA) earlier this month. This prestigious, biennial event showcases the finest choral ensembles from across the world, celebrating the rich traditions and innovations in choral music. The Montgomery Madrigals were the only high school choir from Texas selected to perform—a remarkable distinction that highlights their excellence and dedication.
The Madrigals’ program was designed to inspire gratitude and encourage audiences to embrace life’s journey. From the opening strains of Kyrie Eleison to the moving finale Bright Morning Star, each piece reflected themes of community, joy, sorrow, and hope. Their powerful performance captivated the audience, earning three standing ovations and serving as the pinnacle of an incredible year for the Montgomery High School choir program.
“Performing at the conference was such a thrill—it was a mountaintop experience for all of us!” said Heather Orr, Montgomery High School’s Head Choir Director. “This concert was a testament to the hard work and dedication of our current students, as well as the outstanding contributions of our Madrigal alumni, who played a vital role in our selection for this honor.”
Orr, now in her 30th year of teaching and 24th year leading Montgomery’s choir program, has built a legacy of excellence. Under her direction, Montgomery choirs have been invited to perform at the Texas Music Educators Association Convention in 2024, 2018, 2010, and 2005, as well as the National ACDA Conference in 2025, 2021, and 2011. The Madrigals have also performed at the SWACDA Divisional Conference in 2022 and 2018, further solidifying their reputation among the nation’s top choral programs.
“We are incredibly proud of the way the Madrigals represented Montgomery High School on this national stage,” said Principal Troy Collavo. “This invitation is an extraordinary honor and a reflection of our students’ relentless dedication to their craft. It also speaks to the exceptional leadership of Heather Orr and Assistant Director Emma Cockerham, whose passion for choral excellence continues to inspire our students.”
The Montgomery High School Madrigals’ performance at the ACDA National Conference not only affirmed their place among the best in the nation but also reinforced the power of music to connect, uplift, and inspire.
CTE Director Also Announces Departure from District
During the March school board meeting, trustees received an update on the state of Career and Technical Education (CTE) in Montgomery ISD.
CTE Program Overview
Montgomery ISD currently offers 13 of the 14 TEA-recognized CTE career clusters:
Agriculture, Food & Natural Resources
Architecture & Construction
Arts, A/V Technology & Communications
Business, Marketing & Finance
Education & Training
Engineering
Health Science
Hospitality & Tourism
Human Services
Information Technology
Law & Public Service
Manufacturing
Transportation, Distribution & Logistics
Program Highlights
96% of Montgomery ISD high school students are enrolled in at least one CTE course, an increase of approximately 20% over the past five years.
All 8th-grade students in Montgomery ISD are currently taking a CTE course.
The district offers 20 Programs of Study, providing specialized pathways that lead to certifications and practicum work-based learning experiences.
The CTE program aims to increase the percentage of high school students earning Industry-Based Certifications (IBC) and graduates identified as program completers.
Growth in Industry-Based Certification Attainment
Director of Career and Technical Education, Amy Vance, reported a significant increase in students earning industry certifications. Due to expanded certification opportunities, strengthened partnerships with local businesses and community colleges, and enhanced career pathway guidance, the percentage of students earning an IBC has risen dramatically—from 5% of the Class of 2020 to 62% of the Class of 2023.
“This increase in certifications is a testament to the hard work and dedication Ms. Vance and our amazing CTE teachers have poured into our CTE programs and our kids,” Board President Matt Fuller said. “The improvement is impressive, especially considering the opportunities these certifications provide for our students in terms of career readiness.”
Community & Industry Partnerships
Vance emphasized the department’s commitment to collaborating with local businesses and community leaders to align CTE offerings with workforce needs. The CTE Advisory Board Committee meets twice a year to evaluate programs and ensure alignment with industry standards.
“Engaging with local business leaders and inviting them to see what our students are learning is a great way to promote our CTE programs,” Vance said. “It also ensures that students graduate with the knowledge and skills needed to thrive in an evolving workforce.”
Board Secretary Eddie Winn praised the MISD CTE team:
“What our CTE department and teachers have accomplished is remarkable,” Winn said. “Over the past four years, they have significantly expanded participation in our CTE programs while ensuring courses align with TEA requirements and industry standards. We are so grateful for our talented and dedicated teachers who help students discover their passions and prepare for future careers.”
The DEN: A New Era for CTE in MISD
The Montgomery ISD Career & Technical Education Center and the Montgomery ISD Agricultural Science Center are set to open for the 2025-26 school year. These facilities, included in the district’s bond package in 2022, were officially named The DEN during the March board meeting. The DEN will serve as a location where students from both high schools can Discover, Explore, and Navigate future careers.
The Montgomery ISD Career & Technical Education Center will be a two-story building housing specialized programs, including:
Audio/Video Production
Auto Mechanics
Construction
Cosmetology
Criminal Justice
Culinary Arts
Engineering
Health Science
Robotics
Welding
In anticipation of the CTE Center’s opening, MISD has introduced new programs in welding, construction, and automotive mechanics.
“This CTE update is a full-circle moment for those of us who served on the 2022 bond steering committee and recognized the need for a dedicated CTE facility,” Trustee Nate Robb said. “To officially name the building and reflect on the incredible impact of our CTE programs makes this an especially exciting milestone as we prepare for the new facility’s opening in August.”
A Farewell to Amy Vance
Vance announced that she will be leaving Montgomery ISD to pursue an opportunity in West Texas. She expressed gratitude for the district’s support throughout her tenure:
“When I joined Montgomery ISD in 2020, I was welcomed by a community eager to share ideas and vision for the CTE program,” Vance said. “At that time, the CTE Center was just a dream, but it quickly became a shared goal that our community turned into reality. I am incredibly proud of what we have accomplished and excited to see how the new facility will benefit MISD students for years to come.”
The Director of Career and Technical Education position is currently posted on the MISD website here.
As part of Montgomery ISD’s commitment to transparency and collaboration, Superintendent Dr. Mark Ruffin hosted a Spring 2025 Budget Town Hall to provide an update on the district’s financial outlook. The presentation covered funding sources, financial challenges, budget priorities, and key investments in classrooms, staff compensation and school safety.
The Top 10 things you need to know about the MISD Budget
1. Local Property Taxes Fund the Majority of the MISD Budget
Montgomery ISD’s budget is primarily funded through local property taxes, which are divided into two categories:
Maintenance & Operations (M&O) Tax Rate – Covers daily operational costs such as teacher salaries, instructional materials, transportation, and utilities.
Interest & Sinking (I&S) Tax Rate – Pays for voter-approved bonds used for school construction, renovations, and infrastructure projects.
66% of MISD’s operating budget comes from local property taxes, 33% from state revenues, and less than 1% from federal funds.
2. The MISD Board of Trustees Sets Tax Rates, Not Property Values
The board strives to keep tax rates competitive while ensuring adequate school funding. As property values increase, school districts do not automatically receive more revenue. Instead, state funding decreases as local tax contributions rise.
Even with the passage of Prop A in 2024, MISD’s overall tax rate remains nearly 28 cents lower than in 2018 and 14 cents lower than when voters approved the 2022 bond referendum.
3. MISD’s Budget is Balanced – and People are Our Priority
The district’s current fiscal year budget is balanced, and projections indicate a balanced budget for 2025-26.
Key priorities include:
Teacher and staff compensation
Safety and security
Educational excellence
Fiscal responsibility and long-term financial stability
4. MISD’s Efficiency Audit Highlights Strengths
A 2024 efficiency audit compared Montgomery ISD to the state and peer districts, finding:
MISD has a higher percentage of teaching staff than peer districts and the state average.
MISD has a lower percentage of administrative staff, demonstrating efficient resource use.
The teacher turnover rate is lower than in comparable districts, showing strong staff retention and support.
The district’s fund balance requires monitoring to ensure financial sustainability.
A higher percentage of the budget is spent on instruction compared to peer districts.
5. The Basic Allotment Has Not Increased Since 2019
The basic allotment—the base funding per student for general operations—remains $6,160, unchanged since 2019.
6. Inflation Has Increased the District’s Operating Costs
Since 2019, MISD has experienced:
31.8% increase in transportation costs
15.1% increase in facilities maintenance and operations
52.3% increase in security costs
7. Texas School Districts Are Funded Based on Attendance, Not Enrollment
MISD must staff schools and transportation based on total enrollment but only receives funding based on average daily attendance, which reduces overall revenue.
8. Prop A Commitments Are Being Fulfilled
Since the passage of Prop A, MISD has:
Balanced the district budget
Approved a $500 retention stipend for all employees
Hired 4 additional teachers to reduce class sizes
Hired 6 paraprofessionals to support special education students
Increased police officer certification stipends, purchased additional police vehicles, and maintained staffing levels above state requirements
Improving teacher and staff compensation is a top budget priority for 2025-26.
9. Bond Funds Are Restricted to Facilities and Infrastructure
School districts have two distinct funding sources:
General Fund (M&O) – Covers daily operations, salaries, and classroom expenses.
Bond Funds (I&S) – Used exclusively for school construction, renovations, and capital projects.
Important: Bond funds cannot be used for teacher salaries or classroom supplies. Approved bond projects include:
New school construction
Renovations to existing buildings
Safety and security upgrades
Technology infrastructure
MISD is nearing completion of the 2022 bond program, ensuring that every project promised is delivered—many under budget.
10. Transparency and Fiscal Responsibility Remain Priorities
Montgomery ISD is committed to responsible financial management and community engagement. The district provides:
Budget updates in open board meetings
Public hearings on tax rates and school funding
Opportunities for public input on budget planning
Looking Ahead
MISD remains dedicated to staff compensation, students, safety and security, and long-term financial stability. The district will continue advocating for increased state funding, expanding educational opportunities, and ensuring responsible fiscal management.
Thank you to our community for your continued support and engagement in these important discussions. Together, we work diligently to balance budget priorities while delivering a premier educational experience for students.
During its March meeting, the Montgomery ISD Board of Trustees approved the names of two new district facilities: “The Montgomery ISD Career & Technical Education Center” and “The Montgomery ISD Agricultural Science Center”. Together, these facilities will be referred to as “The DEN” — where our Bears and Lions will come together to Discover, Explore, and Navigate future career opportunities.
A district committee composed of MISD teachers, parents, students, and staff—particularly those involved in CTE and agricultural programs—recommended the names. The committee met twice to discuss options, review community feedback gathered through a districtwide survey, and develop a final recommendation for the board.
“We appreciate the committee’s work in selecting these names,” said Trustee Nate Robb. “They carefully evaluated criteria, including community input, historical significance, and industry relevance. After reviewing submissions, they recommended names that are clear, timeless, and aligned with our district’s vision and values.”
Board member Eddie Winn emphasized the significance of The DEN in bringing students together.
“These two innovative facilities will unite Bears and Lions from both high schools, and we love the strong identity of ‘The DEN,’” Winn said. “Through hands-on experiences, students will discover opportunities, explore careers in high-demand fields, and connect with industry professionals to navigate their futures.”
Both facilities, currently under construction off Lone Star Parkway, were approved as part of the district’s $326 million bond package in 2022. They will serve students from Montgomery High School and Lake Creek High School.
The Montgomery Career & Technical Education Center will be a two-story building housing up to 10 specialized programs, including culinary arts, cosmetology, engineering, robotics, audio/video production, auto mechanics, construction, welding, health science, and criminal justice.
The Agricultural Science Center will feature an animal science classroom and lab, a show arena, and animal pens.
Both centers are scheduled to open for the 2025-26 school year.
Athletic Department Update
MISD Athletic Director Brad LaPlante, who assumed his role in January 2025, provided an update on the district’s athletics program. He has spent his first several weeks meeting with stakeholders, building relationships, and gathering feedback. He also shared insights from a department-wide survey and outlined his vision for the athletic department’s future, emphasizing the core values of love, discipline, integrity, and pride.
“During my first several weeks in Montgomery, I have been intentional about learning as much as possible about our incredible athletic programs,” LaPlante said. “I’m encouraged by the work ethic and sportsmanship of our student-athletes, the dedication of our coaches, and the tremendous community and parental support. I’m excited to be part of Team Montgomery and look forward to building on the strong foundation of our athletics department.”
During the February school board meeting, Montgomery ISD trustees renewed the district police department’s Memorandum of Understanding agreement with law enforcement agencies that have overlapping jurisdiction within district boundaries. These agencies include the Montgomery County Sheriff’s Department, City of Montgomery Police, Montgomery County Constables, and the Texas Department of Public Safety.
The MISD Police Department works with these agencies to ensure a well-coordinated response in case of emergencies.
“Montgomery ISD Police Department’s partnership with neighboring law enforcement agencies enhances our ability to protect and serve students, staff, and our community,” MISD Police Chief Rickey Doerre said. “As school districts across Texas strengthen campus safety and security measures, we are grateful for the support of our law enforcement partners and are always glad to assist them in return.”
Trustees also approved the purchase of four police vehicles from the City of Tomball.
“We appreciate the collaboration with Tomball city officials to sell police vehicles to the district,” Superintendent Dr. Mark Ruffin said. “One of our priorities in Proposition A is to maintain the level of safety and security across our campuses. Providing our police department with updated, reliable vehicles equips our officers to do their jobs more effectively. This is a win-win situation for both the city and the school district. Montgomery ISD’s Police Department benefits by receiving updated, low-mileage vehicles that have been well-maintained.”
Bond 2022 Project Updates
Trustees received an update on projects funded by the district’s 2022 bond campaign.
Chief Facilities and Operations Officer Brad Mansfield reported that:
Construction at the MISD CTE & Ag-Science Center and renovations at Montgomery High School are both more than 70% complete.
Renovations at Stewart Creek, Lone Star, and Madeley Ranch elementary campuses are 40% complete. Outdoor and after-hours work, including updated fencing, administrative restrooms, painting, and above-ceiling electrical, will begin in April 2025.
At the MISD Stadium Complex, underground utility upgrades have been completed, and replacement safety nets installed at the baseball and softball fields. Renovations to the fieldhouse are 95% complete.
The new stadium turf will feature the MISD logo at midfield, Montgomery Bears and Lake Creek Lions logos in opposite end zones, and the Texas flag at the 15-yard markers, celebrating Montgomery as the “Birthplace of the Texas Flag.”
Both the MISD Stadium Complex and the Liberty Transportation Fuel Center projects are 25% complete.
All Bond 2022 projects remain on budget, with targeted completion in summer 2025. To date, 39.6% of bond funds ($213.6 million of $326 million) have been spent.
Academic Achievement & Student Recognition
Leaders from MISD’s Teaching & Learning Department provided an update on Goal 1 of the Strategic Plan: Academic Achievement.
“Montgomery ISD students scored above the state average in every tested area on STAAR Performance measures in 2024,” Assistant Superintendent of Secondary Education Dr. Chris Summers said. “The Texas Accountability System evaluates the academic performance of Texas public schools as measured through standardized assessments such as STAAR and is one indicator of how students are learning and succeeding in Montgomery ISD. These results reflect the dedication of our talented educators to work hard every day to ensure students demonstrate measurable academic growth in supportive learning environments.”
Trustees also recognized five students for earning distinctions in the 2025 National Merit Scholarship Program:
Brody Grochett (Montgomery High School) – Named a Finalist, an honor bestowed on less than 1% of U.S. high school seniors.
Richard Orduna-Garcia (Montgomery High School), Keaton Anderson, Marshall Anderson and Brett Harrington (Lake Creek High School) – Named Commended Students.
“These recognitions are a testament to the hard work, discipline, and commitment of these outstanding students, their families, and their teachers,” Dr. Ruffin said. “We are incredibly proud of them for this well-earned honor.”
Staff Recognition
Trustees with (front row L-R) MISD Asst. Superintendent of Elementary Education Carrie Fitzpatrick, Megan Parker, Kim Ellis, Kerri Ashlock, and Region 6 Dr. Jennifer Morrison
Madeley Ranch Elementary teacher Kimberly Ellis was honored for achieving National Board Certification, a prestigious voluntary assessment program recognizing accomplished teachers who meet the highest standards in their profession.
“National Board Certification provides numerous benefits to teachers, students, and schools,” Dr. Ruffin said. “It was designed to develop, retain, and recognize accomplished teachers while generating ongoing improvements in schools nationwide. We congratulate Ms. Ellis for this prestigious accomplishment.”
Madeley Ranch Elementary Assistant Principal Megan Parker was named 2025 Region 6 AP of the Year by the Texas Elementary Principals and Supervisors Association (TEPSA). This peer-based award celebrates assistant principals across Texas who demonstrate exceptional leadership in fostering excellence for students and teachers.
“I am extremely excited and incredibly humbled by this recognition,” Parker said. “To be working in my own community and representing Region 6 is such an outstanding honor. It is a privilege to serve alongside the exceptional educators at Madeley Ranch Elementary.”
Madeley Ranch Principal Jewel Tucker praised Parker’s leadership.
“She hit the ground running this fall, improving safety practices, strengthening individualized student learning, and enhancing support systems. Her dedication has made a tremendous impact on our Mustangs.”
Finally, Lincoln Elementary Principal Kerri Ashlock was named 2025 Region 6 TEPSAN of the Year by TEPSA. This award recognizes a principal for their commitment to advancing education and advocating for Texas PK-8 students and educators.
“I am truly honored to be selected as the Region 6 TEPSAN of the Year,” Ashlock said. “I am fortunate to work in Montgomery ISD, where I am supported in leading Lincoln Elementary in a way that fosters collaboration and builds on our collective strengths to drive student success.”
“This well-deserved recognition is a testament to Mrs. Ashlock’s dedication, passion, and commitment to making a difference in students’ lives. We are so happy for her to receive this honor.”
Lincoln Elementary Principal Kerri Ashlock has been named the 2025 Region 6 TEPSAN of the Year by the Texas Elementary Principals and Supervisors Association (TEPSA).
Members from the 20 TEPSA Regions across the state recognize a colleague annually for their exceptional service to the association. Award recipients must be committed to advancing the principalship and advocating for Texas PK-8 students and educators.
“We are proud to recognize the outstanding contributions of Kerri, whose dedication and leadership have significantly advanced the goals and mission of our Association,” said TEPSA Executive Director Harley Eckhart.
Kerri Ashlock has served as the principal of Lincoln Elementary since June 2021, bringing 26 years of experience in education. She has held various roles, including classroom teacher, ESL specialist, and gifted and talented specialist, before transitioning to administration in 2013, serving as assistant principal for eight years. Under her leadership, Lincoln Elementary moved from a C-rated to an A-rated campus and earned recognition as a Model PLC at Work school. In 2024, Kerri was named Montgomery ISD Principal of the Year. As a Montgomery resident with two children in MISD schools, she is dedicated to fostering academic excellence and a collaborative learning environment.
“I am truly honored to be selected as the Region 6 TEPSAN of the Year,” Ashlock said. “I am fortunate to work in Montgomery ISD, where I am supported in leading Lincoln Elementary in a way that fosters collaboration and builds on our collective strengths to drive student success. Every day, I am inspired by our incredible district and campus leaders, as well as our dedicated Lincoln staff, whose passion, commitment, and ingenuity continue to amaze me. This recognition reinforces our commitment to continually reflect, learn, and grow so that we can better serve our students and our school community.”
Montgomery ISD Assistant Superintendent of Elementary Education Carrie Fitzpatrick shared her support for Ashlock. “This well-deserved recognition is a real testament to Mrs. Ashlock’s dedication, leadership, and passion for making a difference in the lives of our students and school community,” Fitzpatrick said. “In every interaction, she models excellence as she serves as Lincoln Elementary School’s principal. Her commitment to students and staff is unparalleled. We are so happy for her to receive this honor.”
Madeley Ranch Elementary Assistant Principal Megan Parker has been named the 2025 Region 6 AP of the Year by the Texas Elementary Principals and Supervisors Association (TEPSA). The peer-based award celebrates assistant principals from the 20 TEPSA Regions across the state who demonstrate exceptional leadership in fostering a culture of excellence for students and teachers on their campuses.
“Megan has played a pivotal role in creating a supportive and dynamic learning environment at Madeley Ranch. We are proud to recognize her leadership and dedication to ensuring students are engaged, and achieve success throughout their education,” said TEPSA Executive Director Harley Eckhart.
This award recognizes leaders who are committed to excellence through programs designed to meet the needs of all students, have firmly established community ties, show strong educational leadership by setting high expectations for school staff and students, and exhibit exceptional leadership in a particular school program.
The 20 regional honorees will be recognized at the TEPSA Legacy Luncheon in June. One TEPSA Region AP of the Year will be selected as the 2025 NAESP National Assistant Principal of the Year for Texas.
This is Parker’s first year at Madeley Ranch and in MISD, and her twentieth year in education. Prior to joining the Madeley Ranch staff, she served in a variety of leadership roles in Tomball ISD, including Assistant Principal, Director of the Early Excellence Academy, and Program Specialist for Assessment & Instruction. She started her career as a special education teacher and also served as an educational diagnostician. A resident of MISD, she was happy for the opportunity to join the Madeley Ranch staff and work closer to home.
“I am extremely excited and incredibly humbled by this recognition,” Parker said. “To be working in my own community and representing Region 6 is such an outstanding honor. It is a privilege to serve alongside the exceptional educators at Madeley Ranch Elementary where our staff and community celebrate growth through innovative practices and collaboration.”
Madeley Ranch Principal Jewel Tucker also commented on the honor.
“We are thrilled for Megan to receive this recognition,” Tucker said. “She hit the ground running this fall, improving our safety practices and protocols, and an overhaul of multi-tiered systems to support our Mustangs. She has worked to strengthen individualized student learning, including positive behavior intervention plans and collaborating with counselors and teachers to meet our kids where they are, and giving them the tools they need to succeed.”
Montgomery ISD Assistant Superintendent of Elementary Education Carrie Fitzpatrick shared her support for Parker.
“Megan has been an incredible addition to our staff at Madeley Ranch,” Fitzpatrick said. “Together with Mrs. Tucker, they have created a remarkable culture at the school. Every staff member is invested in fostering student growth in and out of the classroom, building on a foundation of positive behavioral intervention strategies. We are grateful that Megan is part of Team Montgomery and congratulate her on this well-deserved honor.”
Trustees celebrated during School Board Appreciation Month
During its January school board meeting, Montgomery ISD trustees approved the district’s calendar for the 2025-26 school year.
The calendar was developed by the Montgomery ISD District Advisory Committee (DAC), which includes district staff, parents, and community members. The DAC gathered feedback through a districtwide survey conducted in October 2024 and met several times during the fall semester to review the data. Based on feedback provided through the survey and in conversations in various stakeholder groups, the committee finalized the recommended 2025-26 calendar and submitted it to the Board of Trustees for approval.
Highlights of the MISD 2025-26 calendar include:
First and last days of school: Classes begin on Thursday, August 14, 2025, and end on Friday, May 22, 2026.
Fall break: Students will have a five-day weekend in October, while staff will have a four-day weekend.
Spring Break: Scheduled for March 16-20, aligning with the Lone Star College calendar.
Early release days: These will mark the end of both the fall and spring semesters.
Click here to view the approved 2025-26 academic calendar.
“We truly appreciate the hard work of the District Advisory Committee in creating next year’s academic calendar,” Board Vice President Laurie Turner said. “We understand that this is never an easy task, and the committee carefully balanced many factors to develop a calendar that best serves our students, supports our staff, aligns with the preferences of our community, and meets state requirements.”
Superintendent Dr. Mark Ruffin also thanked the committee for their efforts.
“The DAC members did an excellent job incorporating survey feedback and input from the groups they represent,” Dr. Ruffin said. “Our staff and students appreciate the long weekend in October, and teachers expressed the importance of preparation time before students return from Winter and Spring Breaks.”
MISD Trustees Recognized During School Board Appreciation Month
Also during the January meeting, MISD trustees were honored as part of School Board Appreciation Month. Each January, school districts across Texas recognize the community volunteers who serve on local school boards.
“We are always excited to celebrate the members of our school board,” Dr. Ruffin said. “They reflect the values of our community and are united in their commitment to student success. Their leadership helps shape a brighter future for MISD students and staff. We are grateful for the lasting impact they make on our district and the Montgomery community.”
Reflecting on Budget and Tax Rate Decisions
In August 2024, faced with rising costs from inflation and other factors, along with no increase in the state’s base funding per student in over five years, the Montgomery ISD Board of Trustees adopted a deficit budget for the 2024-25 school year. To address this financial challenge locally, the board voted to call for a Voter-Approval Tax Rate Election (VATRE), known as Prop A, which appeared on the November 2024 ballot.
Montgomery ISD voters approved Prop A, resulting in over $5.5 million in additional revenue for the district this fiscal year. This funding will help balance the district’s budget and allow for consideration of employee compensation increases, including a retention stipend provided to district employees in December. Additionally, the funds generated by Prop A have enabled the district to hire more classroom teachers at campuses where additional support was needed.
“Our trustees devoted significant time and careful consideration to adopting a tax rate that gave our community a voice in how the district is funded,” Dr. Ruffin said. “The success of Prop A reflects the trust our school board has built with our community. This historic and courageous decision ensures funding to recruit and retain high-quality educators, maintain student programs, and strengthen safety and security measures across the district. We are incredibly grateful for the leadership and service of our trustees.”
Honored as one of three statewide finalists in small district category
H-E-B has named Montgomery ISD as a statewide finalist for the Texas-based organization’s 2025 Excellence in Education Awards. MISD is one of three statewide finalists in the small district category, encompassing those with less than 10,000 students enrolled.
H-E-B launched the Excellence in Education Awards in 2002 as a positive way to support education in Texas. Since the program’s inception, H-E-B has awarded more than $14 million in funding to outstanding Texas teachers, principals, public school districts, school boards, and early childhood facilities.
“In Montgomery ISD we talk a lot about maximizing the impact we have on our students, our community, and our people,” Superintendent Dr. Mark Ruffin said. “H-E-B is a perfect example of a company that maximizes their impact on communities all across Texas. Their commitment to supporting public education is inspiring and is evident in their Excellence in Education Awards, and Montgomery ISD is incredibly honored to be named as a finalist. Through this process, we get to shine a light on our people and highlight the work they do that makes a meaningful impact every day. Being able to share the amazing things happening here on such a large platform is incredibly exciting. This distinction reinforces Montgomery ISD’s daily commitment to being the Premier School District in Texas.”
The H-E-B Excellence in Education Awards recognize school districts based on the following criteria:
Commitment to student achievement through innovative programs
Parent/Community involvement
Professional development opportunities for teachers and administrators
“We are thrilled that Montgomery ISD has been named as a statewide finalist by H-E-B. The Excellence in Education Awards criteria aligns with our community’s high expectations of our school district.” MISD Board President Matt Fuller said. “We are proud that families choose Montgomery as a place to raise their children, and never take for granted the faith they put in MISD to provide a premier education for each student, preparing them for future success.”
To determine overall statewide winners, a panel of judges will tour campuses and visit with administration, staff, parents, students and community members.
Winners will be announced at the H-E-B Excellence in Education Awards Ceremony this spring.
To kick off a year-long celebration of Montgomery ISD’s centennial year in 2025, the MISD Education Foundation committed to awarding $100,000 to the school district via educator grants and other initiatives. On Friday, January 10, the “Grant Express” school bus, filled with members of the Montgomery ISD Education Foundation, district leaders, and community partners stopped at each of MISD’s eleven campuses to award 32 educator grants. These grants are in addition to six previously awarded district-wide grants and seven Foundation Fellowships, a new initiative that supports MISD employees in their pursuit of higher education in the teaching profession.
“We are so proud to pilot the Foundation Fellowship program for district employees,” Montgomery ISD Education Foundation Executive Director Tiffany Ortiz said. “The program is designed to encourage, promote, and foster a desire for continued education. We strongly believe that our student’s premier education comes from our premier teachers and are especially excited to unveil the program in the district’s centennial year.”
Each fall, the Montgomery ISD Education Foundation hosts a competitive grant application process. Grants are awarded based on creative and innovative ideas that district staff can implement in the classroom to positively impact student learning.
Grant applications are evaluated based on whether the proposed program represents an inventive approach to improve and enrich learning and includes sound evaluation procedures tied to student performance.
Some of the items that will be purchased with 2025 grant funds include:
Power tools to enhance the hands-on learning experience for students enrolled in our Career and Technical Education programs, specifically in the fields of construction, automotive technology, agricultural mechanics, and welding.
Drone technology to provide secondary students with the skills and knowledge to operate drones for professional-quality video production, preparing them for careers in media, film, and digital content creation.
LEGO Spike Robotic Kits focus on combining LEGO building elements, programmable hardware, and a user-friendly coding platform to teach STEM concepts.
Augmented Reality Sandbox to encourage students to leverage technology to make history and science classes more interactive, engaging, and impactful. The AR sandbox not only deepens understanding but also inspires a love of learning, ensuring students are active participants in their education rather than passive observers.
Other grants will fund experiences for students, including:
Texas Wildlife on Wheels introduces the diversity of local wildlife to students, and a deeper understanding of the flora and fauna in their own backyard.
Books Alive Theater Company provides elementary students with a musical performance of the book Three Nasty Gnarlies by Keith Graves, along with copies of the book provided for each classroom teacher.
The MISD College Experience Grant will fund college campus visits for MISD students and provide college application assistance.
Mobile Ed Production STEAM Museum visit allows students to participate in hands-on activities to learn about energy, technology, manufacturing methods and techniques, simple machines, gear ratios, 3D printing, robotics, geometry, structures, friction, gravity, and much more.
“The MISD Education Foundation is thrilled to commemorate MISD’s 100th year, by committing $100,000 to enhance student learning,” Ortiz said. “Grant Express Day is the culmination of our fundraising efforts and one of the best days in Montgomery ISD. We always look forward to surprising our educators and providing them with the tools and experiences they know will make a big difference in their classrooms and on their campuses. We could not do this without the incredible support of our community partners and are delighted that so many of them were able to ride along with us today to be part of the celebration.”
“There is nothing better than seeing the excitement on the faces of our teachers and staff as they were presented with funding for innovative programs and initiatives for their students.” Superintendent Dr. Mark Ruffin said. “The 45 grants awarded represent the MISD Education Foundation’s commitment to MISD, deep investment in our kids and staff, and an amazing way to celebrate the district’s centennial year in 2025.”
Funds for the Montgomery ISD Education Foundation come from fundraising events including a golf tournament held in the fall, and the Roaring 20s Spring Soiree, scheduled for March 22, 2025 at Margaritaville on Lake Conroe.
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