District provides update on 2022 bond program

During the April 15, 2025 School Board meeting, Montgomery ISD Trustees received an update on the 89th Texas Legislative Session.

Members of the Montgomery ISD Board of Trustees recently visited the State Capitol, where they had the opportunity to meet with Senator Brandon Creighton and Representative Will Metcalf. These productive conversations were part of the Board’s ongoing efforts to remain engaged during the 89th Texas Legislative Session.

The district continues to work closely with lawmakers on key priorities, including:

• Increasing the basic allotment to support teacher and staff compensation and academic opportunities for students
• Advocating for discipline policy reforms that empower educators to maintain productive and orderly classroom learning environments 
• Securing additional targeted funding to serve students receiving special education services
• Strengthening school safety by ensuring districts have the necessary resources to comply with state mandates
• Legislation to provide more affordable healthcare insurance options for district staff

There is active legislation addressing each of these areas, and Montgomery ISD remains in communication with state legislators regarding proposals that would impact the school district.

Superintendent Dr. Mark Ruffin added that planning and development of the employee compensation plan for 2025-26 is well underway. The district is waiting to see what additional funding it may receive as a result of legislative action before finalizing a recommendation to present to the Board of Trustees.

“Our Board of Trustees has consistently prioritized providing competitive compensation for all employees, and that commitment remains as strong as ever,” Dr Ruffin said. “While we can’t finalize the details of a compensation plan until we have a clearer idea of the direction of the state legislature, I can confidently say the recommendation will include a raise greater than the 1% approved last year. Regardless of what happens at the state level, we are committed to recognizing and rewarding the hard work of our staff.”

Board Member Training Update

Each year, Texas public school board members are required to complete continuing education courses to stay up to date on district policy and governance, and to build a strong foundational understanding of their role in improving student outcomes. The requirements for training are measured as of the first anniversary of the date of the trustee’s election or two-year anniversary of his or her previous training, as applicable.

It was reported during the meeting that all seven Montgomery ISD trustees exceeded the required number of hours for board member training, during the reporting period.

2022 Bond Update

Chief of Facilities and Operations Brad Mansfield provided an update on the 2022 bond program approved by voters. Highlights include the following:

• Construction of The DEN, which consists of the Montgomery ISD Career and Technical Education and Agricultural Science Centers is on time and tracking within the budget. Both facilities will be completed in July 2025 on time for the 2025-26 school year.
• Construction at the Liberty Transportation Center is scheduled to be complete in August 2025.
• Renovations at Lone Star ES, Madeley Ranch ES, and Stewart Creek ES will begin this month. 
• Construction at the MISD Athletic Complex is on track to be completed this summer. Parking lot paving for the new home side of the stadium will begin later this month.

“As a member of the 2022 Community Bond Task Force, it has been incredibly rewarding to see the district deliver every project that was needed and promised to voters with a clear commitment to transparency and financial accountability,” Trustee Nate Robb said. “Our community expects outstanding educational facilities for our students, and we intend to deliver on that expectation in a fiscally responsible manner. This work reflects not only sound financial stewardship but a thoughtful, collaborative approach to long-range planning. Our community placed its trust in us, and we are proud to be upholding that trust by preparing facilities that meet our community’s needs.”

Student Recognitions

As part of the meeting, the MISD trustees recognized the MISD Class of 2025 Valedictorians and Salutatorians. From Montgomery High School, Joseph Rizzo is the Salutatorian and Addison Hedges in the Valedictorian.

Lake Creek High School’s Valedictorian is Brett Harrington and the Salutatorian is Alyssa Walters. 

“On behalf of the school board, we proudly congratulate our district valedictorians and salutatorians,” Board President Matt Fuller said.  “Their hard work and dedication have earned them this incredible honor, and we are excited to celebrate this accomplishment. We wish each of them well in their future endeavors and know they will make Montgomery ISD proud.”

Trustees also recognized Montgomery ISD’s Academic Decathlon teams for their recent success at the state tournament.  Individuals named state champions from Montgomery High include Christie Telthorster, Addison Hedges and Peyton Lawson.  Both Montgomery High and Lake Creek High teams had multiple individual medalists and strong showings in the team competitions.  The teams are coached by Dayna Lawson (MHS) and Eric Moons (LCHS).  

“Preparation for Academic Decathlon competitions began at the beginning of the school year, and we are thrilled to see the efforts of these bright students pay off at the highly competitive state event,” Board Vice President Laurie Turner said. “We understand the high level of commitment required by our students and their coaches and are extremely proud to see the district represented so well at the state level.”

Academic Decathlon is a program that provides high school students an opportunity to experience the challenges of rigorous academic competition through participation in team activities. In addition, the Academic Decathlon involves members of the business/industry as active supporters of a program promoting academic excellence. Long term relationships, developed through joint participation, benefit the students and the community.  Montgomery ISD is proud to offer Academic Decathlon courses at both high schools.  

Finally, two Destination Imagination Teams were recognized for success at the state level competition and advancing to the global competition this summer. 

Competing in the secondary level in the “Less is More” challenge, the Lake Creek HS Destination Imagination team, the Couch Convicts, advanced to the global competition that will be held in Kansas City.  The team is managed by LCHS teacher David Herman. 

The team from Creekside Elementary, 5 More Minutes, took first in the “Are We There Yet?” challenge at the elementary level.  They also received the Spirit of DI Award, a major award that recognizes only a few teams for an outstanding display of the virtues of Destination Imagination, serving as role models in the areas of spirit, teamwork, sportsmanship, volunteerism and inclusion.

 “This is an incredible accomplishment for these students,” Creekside teacher and Team Manager Robin Riley said.  “To take first place in their challenge and earn the Spirit of DI award is truly an honor, especially for a team competing in their first year. I am so proud of them and excited for them to participate in the global competition this summer.”

DI team members work together to develop a solution to open-ended challenges and present their solutions at tournaments. Through the challenge program, students learn and experience the creative process from imagination to innovation, and learn skills needed to succeed in school, career, and life, including teamwork, communication, project management, perseverance, creative and critical thinking, and self-confidence.

Three Montgomery ISD schools – Lincoln Elementary, Montgomery Elementary and Stewart Creek Elementary – were named 2024 Educational Results Partnership (ERP) Honor Roll schools, which recognizes high-performing, achievement gap-closing schools across the nation.

This is the tenth year that ERP has released an Honor Roll schools list. The ERP Honor Roll program is part of a national effort to identify higher-performing schools and districts that are improving student outcomes and preparing students with the skills employer’s value and demand. Only 12 percent of public schools in Texas made the ERP Honor Roll, the only award in the state that utilizes student achievement data to identify successful schools.

“This distinction is a direct reflection of hard work from our students and their teachers, and partnership with our families,” Superintendent Dr. Mark Ruffin said.  “It’s an acknowledgement of Montgomery ISD’s focus on academic achievement, meeting students where they are and equipping them with the tools they need to succeed. I am so proud of our teams at Lincoln, Montgomery, and Stewart Creek elementary schools for this prestigious recognition.”  

Schools that receive the ERP Honor Roll distinction have demonstrated consistently high levels of student academic achievement, improvement in achievement levels over time, and a reduction in achievement gaps among student populations. 

The ERP Honor Roll, sponsored by the Campaign for Business and Education Excellence (CBEE) and presented in collaboration with the Texas Business Leadership Council, is the only school award given in collaboration with state and local business leaders. The Honor Roll spotlights schools preparing students with essential skills for success in college, careers, and life in a global workforce and is a valuable resource for all schools to identify successful peers and learn about best practices that are improving student achievement.

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.

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.” 

Trustees also receive update on 2022 Bond Program

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

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.”

Montgomery ISD Assistant Superintendent of Elementary Education Carrie Fitzpatrick commended Ashlock’s leadership.

“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.”