La Porte ISD Insider - Fall/Winter 2024 by lpisd

SIDER LA PORTE ISD

THE OFFICIAL MAGAZINE OF LA PORTE INDEPENDENT SCHOOL DISTRICT

BOND 2023

See the progress that is happening on many of the Bond 2023 projects around LP

LPEF GALA

A night of success for the La Porte Education Foundation at the annual gala

HYDROPONICS

No soil? No problem! Students learning to grow plants using hydroponics

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HOUSTON METHODIST LEADING CARE

Project Launch at the University of Houston Clear Lake is starting its second year.

LEADERSHIP

A message from Superintendent Dr. Walter Jackson

TOP EDUCATORS

Two of La Porte ISD’s teachers named winners of the Shell Science Lab Regional Challenge.

AP SCHOLARS

KEY COMMUNICATOR

Superintendent Dr. Walter Jackson recognized for prestigious award.

YOUTH ADVISORY COUNCIL

Students selected to the City of La Porte’s inaugural Youth Advisory Council.

JUNIOR ENGINEERING

La Porte ISD offers engineering electives for its junior high students. 9

Thirty-one La Porte High School students earn AP Scholar Awards.

La Porte alumnus shines in his new role at the newest host of Texas Country Reporter. 12

The season’s off to a great start for our La Porte Bulldogs. 14

On the cover: Bayshore Elementary fifth grader Serenity Watson interacts with the Hydroponics system created by the LPISD Nutrition Department.

PERFORMING ARTS

All-Region Success

Dr. Walter G. Jackson Superintendent of Schools

Board of Trustees

Danny Hanks, President

Jeff Martin, Vice President

Mason Peres, Secretary

Melissa Crutcher, Trustee

Russell Schoppe, Trustee

Dee Anne Thomson, Trustee

Karen Wheeler-Hall, Trustee 1002 San Jacinto La Porte, Texas 77571 281-604-7000 lpisd.org

STEM RECOGNITION

21 Honeywell Hall of Fame

La Porte ISD Insider is a community magazine published by the La Porte ISD Communications Department to inform community members about La Porte Independent School District and its campuses.

Adam J. Holland Director of Communications & Community Relations

Devin Dozier Communications Coordinator

Amy Lott Secretary to Director of Communications & Community Relations

Penny Shawley Print Shop Technician

Esther Villatoro Clerk/Receptionist Communications

LEADERSHIP

Dear La Porte Family,

With the first grading period of the school year now behind us, I am thrilled to share that La Porte ISD is off to a fantastic start. The energy in our classrooms is quite evident, with students and teachers diving into new opportunities and setting ambitious goals.

Our STEM program is thriving across all campuses, enhancing the reputation of our educators. Recently, one facilitator was inducted into the Honeywell STEM Hall of Fame at a Houston Astros game, highlighting our district’s excellence. We’re also excited to begin the second year of our Project Launch partnership with the University of HoustonClear Lake, where Gifted and Talented fifth- and sixth graders choose STEM courses on campus. Participation has increased from 125 students last year to 150 this year.

Fall sports in La Porte ISD are in full swing. From high school and junior high volleyball and football to water polo, cross country, and tennis, our athletes have competed with vigor. Notably, our varsity football team, marching band, color guard, Chatos, cheerleaders, and other student groups are now in their second year of playing home games at an away stadium—this season at Deer Park High School. A special thanks goes to Deer Park Superintendent Mr. Stephen Harrell and his team for their generous hospitality while our own Bulldog Stadium is under construction.

Our School Nutrition Department is also off to an outstanding start. Through late September, there was a significant increase in meal participation—more than 4,000 additional breakfasts and 16,000 more lunches compared to last year. The success of our free breakfast and lunch program is a direct result of our commitment to providing healthy meals at no cost, coupled with a dedicated approach to menu planning and continuous improvement.

Safety and security have always been the highest priority in La Porte ISD, and we continuously review and update our processes. Alongside crisis alert badges for all employees, security film on exterior windows, enhanced fencing, and ongoing training, we continue to have law enforcement officers stationed on every campus throughout the day. This comprehensive approach to safety is made possible by the Board of Trustees’ early investment in School Resource Officers, for which we are deeply grateful.

Finally, I want to take a moment to express my heartfelt gratitude for the incredible support shown by the La Porte community during the recent fire on Spencer Highway near East Boulevard. Thanks to your swift action and unwavering commitment, our students and staff were kept safe, and many families who were affected have received much-needed assistance. The strength and compassion of our La Porte community truly shine in times like these. It is because of people like you that we can overcome challenges and stand strong together.

On behalf of the La Porte ISD Board of Trustees, administration, teachers, and staff, I extend our sincere appreciation to the entire La Porte community for your ongoing support.

In your service,

Dr.

Walter Jackson

Porte ISD Superintendent of Schools

TSPRA KEY COMMUNICATOR

La Porte ISD Superintendent Dr. Walter Jackson has been named the Texas School Public Relations Association’s 2024 Key Communicator.

Recognized for his significant contributions to public school communications, Dr. Jackson is a leader dedicated to equitable education, student success, and professional development for educators.

“Dr. Jackson is a great teacher, leader, and communicator who promotes success for his students, staff, and community,” said Dr. Bobby Ott, Superintendent of Schools for Temple ISD. “He describes himself as a ‘cultural strategist’ and ‘equity warrior.’ He seeks opportunities for students to take advantage of public education while pursuing the American Dream. He believes students are only afforded school one time, and he believes it is the role of the professional educators to make it the most positive and impactful experience for them.”

Dr. Jackson’s impact extends beyond La Porte ISD through his roles on the UIL Legislative Council, TASA Executive Committee, and AASA Governing Board, demonstrating his dedication to fostering communication and advocacy for public education.

“As a respected educator and advocate for education, Dr. Jackson has consistently demonstrated exceptional communication skills,” said Dr. Charles Breithaupt, Executive Director of the University Interscholastic League. “His exceptional ability to effectively articulate the needs and concerns of educational stakeholders has been instrumental in shaping legislation that enhances the educational experience for all students.”

Dr. Jackson was honored in early October at txEDCON in San Antonio; he will also be recognized by TSPRA in February.

EMMY WINNER!

Congratulations to Sammy Zaborowski, La Porte High School Class of 2020, for winning a Lone Star Emmy!

Sammy, who is the son of proud parents Sam and Clare Zaborowski, got his start right here in La Porte as a student worker on LP Sports Net. His Emmy Award is for his editing of the Longhorn Networks’ piece Texas Volleyball Repeats as Back-to-Back Champions.

Shell Science Lab Challenge

Bayshore Elementary teacher Yelitza Cienfuegos and La Porte Junior High teacher Alyssa Ruffin have been named regional winners in the Shell Science Lab Regional Challenge.

Sponsored by Shell USA and administered by the National Science Teaching Association, the competition encouraged K–12 science teachers who have found innovative ways to deliver quality lab experiences with limited school and laboratory resources to share their approaches for a chance to win a school science lab makeover support package.

Cienfuegos and Ruffin, both former La Porte ISD Rookie Teachers of the Year, are among 24 regional winners, from which three grand-prize winners will be selected. The regional winners each received a school science lab makeover support package valued at $15,000 (for the elementary level) and $20,000 (for the middle and high school levels).

Ruffin tries to ignite curiosity, foster inquiry, and cultivate scientific minds in her students. She believes that science education is not merely about memorizing facts and formulas but about instilling a passion for discovery and a love of learning.

The core of Cienfuegos’ teaching philosophy is based on developing students as growing learners. She prioritizes creating an environment that is welcoming to all children and promotes an atmosphere that allows them to reach their full potential. She establishes high expectations and individual goals throughout the year. One of her crucial beliefs is having hands-on experiments in her classroom.

“These science teachers have implemented remarkable science programs, providing high-quality lab experiences for their students with very little resources, often using their own funds,” said Erika Shugart, Ph.D., Chief Executive Officer at NSTA. “Now they have the chance to build the lab of their dreams. We commend all the regional winners for their creativity, resourcefulness, and commitment to their students.”

Cienfuegos and Ruffin now advance to the national phase of the competition, where they will have a chance to win an additional $5,000 of support to attend a future NSTA National Conference.

LPISD Offers Advanced Math Pathway in Fifth Grade

La Porte ISD has launched a new advanced math pathway for the 2024-25 school year aimed at fostering mathematical talent among fifth-grade students.

The advanced math course provides an accelerated curriculum, allowing students to engage with both fifth-and sixth-grade math standards. By the end of fifth grade, participants will be prepared to take the sixth-grade STAAR assessment, setting them on a path to take Algebra I by eighth grade.

“This early exposure to advanced math significantly increases the likelihood of students earning postsecondary credentials or degrees, with data suggesting they are six times more likely to do so,” said Julie Abram, Deputy Superintendent of Academics.

To qualify for this challenging program, students were required to meet specific criteria based on their performance in third and fourth grades.

The introduction of the advanced math pathway represents a significant step forward in La Porte ISD’s commitment to academic excellence and the preparation of students for future challenges in mathematics and beyond.

LAUNCH @ UH-CLEAR LAKE

The Project Launch program, a collaboration between La Porte ISD and the University of Houston-Clear Lake, has officially commenced its second year of the Gifted and Talented (GT) program for fifth and sixth graders this fall. Students enrolled in this initiative engage in a dynamic and collaborative learning environment led by GT-certified professors, with a focus on several key objectives:

• Providing project-based learning and hands-on experiences within a college setting; enhancing critical thinking and reasoning skills through guided questioning and inquiry;

• Fostering independent and self-directed learning to explore topics of personal interest;

• Acquiring an advanced understanding of content and processes through creative and academic challenges;

• Developing foundational research skills and methods;

• Nurturing the creativity of gifted learners through peer collaboration, encouraging them to take supported academic risks.

This year, students had the opportunity to choose from five diverse course options. These included classes that explore the rich traditions, foods, languages, and arts of various countries; learning the ins and outs of becoming an “artrepreneur” and understanding the business side of being an artist; delving into the world of digital design and utilizing various tools to bring ideas to life; solving puzzles and unraveling mysteries in a course called Escape Quest; studying the animal kingdom as a wildlife biologist while interacting with animal skeletons and specimens; and venturing into game design and development. For the Fall 2024 semester, approximately 150 fifth- and sixth-grade GT students from La Porte ISD are participating in this exceptional program.

Samantha Pulse, Director of Educational Programs for UHCL, remarked, “The students love working with other GT students from the district and taking classes that challenge them in new ways. They have the opportunity to utilize skills that they don’t typically engage with in a traditional classroom, allowing them to collaborate and exchange ideas with like-minded peers.”

LP BOND 2023 PROGRESS

LP Bond 2023 project developments have progressed smoothly since ground was first broken more than 16 months ago. With key milestones being met on schedule, the construction teams have effectively managed timelines and resources, ensuring that the various components of the project align with their projected completion dates. This careful execution has allowed for a seamless flow of operations, minimizing disruptions and maximizing efficiency. Additionally, construction crews at Bulldog Stadium have prioritized worker safety, completing over one million combined hours without an injury.

A Few Highlights

• Bulldog Stadium and Educational Development Complex is about 70% complete as of mid-October.

• The Lomax Junior High Gymnasium project is planned to begin in November or December 2024.

• Security film has been installed at various places throughout the district, particularly at campus entrances. In addition to fortifying security at the campuses, the film is also themed to reflect campus mascots and color schemes.

Continuous Campus/District Projects

• Playground Upgrades

• Interior Painting

• Campus Stage/Audio Upgrades

• Chiller and Boiler Replacements

• School Buses and White Fleet Replacements

• Fine Arts

LPHS Grad Reaching New Heights ALUMNI SPOTLIGHT

The Texas Country Reporter television series shines the spotlight on locations all over the state, but J.B. Sauceda’s path to the role as its new host began right here in La Porte.

A 2003 graduate of La Porte High School, Sauceda has a gift for storytelling. Selected by Texas Monthly in October 2023 as the successor to retiring host Bob Phillips, whose career on the show spanned 52 years, Sauceda’s first show of Season 53 aired on Sept. 7. In that episode, he takes viewers to the Sonja Angelo Theater at La Porte High School, where he interviewed the retired theater director who made a significant impact on his life.

“I’m so proud of that story and having had the opportunity to tell her how much I loved her one last time,” Sauceda said of Angelo, who passed away on Aug. 17 at age 86, after 56 years of pouring her love into La Porte ISD students. “Most moving has been the number of people who, without even knowing her, have shared what the story meant to them and how it reminded them of their teachers. It’s truly heartwarming.”

Sauceda, who now lives in central Texas, also returned to the area for the Sept. 14 La Porte Education Foundation Gala, at which he was the keynote speaker. Sauceda affirmed his support for public schools and thanked the many La Porte ISD teachers who helped him become the person he is today.

“I love La Porte,” Sauceda said. “I went to Jennie Reid, I went to Baker Junior High, I went to Lomax (Junior High), and then, of course, I was a Bulldog. I loved it—I loved every minute. Any time I come back, I’m in my happy spot.”

After graduation, Sauceda attended the University of Texas at Austin, majoring in political science. During that time, he worked on documentaries in his spare time and interned for Butler Bros., where he was introduced to advertising. He started working as a commercial photographer, and in 2013, he and his wife Priscilla, launched Texas Humor, a company that makes T-shirts and hats he calls “clothing for the Texan state of mind.” To support Texas Humor’s rapid sales growth, they founded Sauceda Industries, Inc., a shipping and fulfillment company that they sold to Cart.com in 2021.

A licensed pilot, Sauceda combined his love of photography, flying and Texas to publish his 2016 book, A Mile Above Texas, which documents his six-day flight over the entire state in his single-engine Cessna. He is also the author of Y’all: The Definitive Guide to Being a Texan.

As for his newest venture on Texas Country Reporter, Sauceda said, “Every day I get to tell the stories of good in the world; I get to tell the stories of ordinary people doing extraordinary things.”

LPEF ANNUAL GALA

On a starry night filled with excitement and philanthropy, the La Porte Education Foundation held its Casino Royale Gala, raising $108,000 to support innovative grants for teachers in La Porte ISD. The Sept. 14 event, which brought together community members, educators, and local leaders, showcased the power of collaboration in enhancing educational experiences for students.

The Galveston Island Convention Center was transformed into a scene right out of the movie Casino Royale, complete with elegant décor, vibrant lights, and dazzling gaming room. Attendees dressed in their finest attire, enjoying an evening of entertainment while contributing to a noble cause.

The highlight of the evening was the inspiring keynote address by J.B. Sauceda, a proud graduate of La Porte High School and the new host of the Texas Country Reporter television show. His journey from local student to influential media figure resonated with attendees, as he shared anecdotes from his life and emphasized the importance of education in shaping futures.

“We are so excited with the support that we received from the community. The money raised from this event will provide much-needed educational tools and resources for classrooms in La Porte ISD, “ La Porte Education Foundation Executive Director Charlotte Pennye said.

As the night progressed, attendees enjoyed a variety of games, auctions, and entertainment, all while knowing that their participation directly benefited La Porte ISD. The foundation’s commitment to enhancing the quality of education in La Porte was evident, and the evening served as a testament to the community’s dedication to its schools.

La Porte

FALL ATHLETICS

LPHS Football brings back Big Dog-Little Dog

The La Porte High School Booster Club hosted its Big Dog-Little Dog camp this fall, bringing the return of this beloved event for the first time in several years. The camp attracted around 150 enthusiastic “Little Dogs,” who were eager to learn football-specific drills and skills from the LPHS Varsity Football Team. Children from kindergarten through sixth grade participated in a variety of football activities, including running over hurdles, kicking field goals, and playing catch with their favorite “Big Dogs.”

Booster Club President Jess Harr expressed her enthusiasm for bringing back this tradition, stating, “I remember when my son participated in the camp back when he was six years old and how he still remembers who his Big Dogs were from over 10 years ago. This camp helps bridge the gap between our amazing community and the Bulldog Football program, to give our future Bulldogs a look into what it’s like to be a Bulldog for an evening and to get to run through the tunnel with their Big Dog before the game!”

As a special highlight, the Little Dogs who participated in the camp will have the unique opportunity to run out of the inflated bulldog before the varsity football game against the Crosby Cougars on Oct. 25.

La Porte Hosts District 20-5A Cross Country Meet

This October, La Porte ISD hosted the District 20-5A Cross Country Meet at Northwest Park in La Porte. Athletes from seven high schools participated in the three-mile race.

Both the boys’ and girls’ teams from La Porte High School secured second place at the district meet, earning them a spot in the upcoming regional meet. Notably, freshman Gianna Palomarez finished in 6th place for the girls, while senior Aryssa Rodriguez took 10th. On the boys’ side, junior Roy Ramirez achieved 5th place, and sophomore Thomas Green finished 9th.

Developing Sports Leaders: The LP Captains Council Leads the Charge

In the bustling world of high school sports, where rivalries and excitement often reach fever pitch, a unique initiative is making waves. The La Porte High School Captains Council, a dynamic assembly of team captains from various sports, has emerged as a beacon of leadership and character development among student-athletes. Among the goals of this grou help build confidence and influence to effectively encourage positive beha The council meets regularly to brainstorm and implement strategies aimed at problem-solving, and to learn how and when to lead. The group also works closely with school administration to address specific issues and promote a culture of respect and inclusivity at games.

In a similar vein, the University Interscholastic League has launched its own initiative to promote sportsmanship across Texas. The UIL’s program aims to reinforce the principles of fair play and respect through guidelines and support for schools implementing sportsmanship policies. This alignment with the Captains Council’s goals highlights a unified approach to improving game-day experiences for everyone involved.

“The UIL’s efforts complement what we’re doing perfectly,” said Athletic Director Elisha Thompson. “Together, we’re creating a stronger, more cohesive message about the value of good sportsmanship, and we are accomplishing this through leadership development among our student-athletes.”

Fall Sports in La Porte Going Strong

This fall, our La Porte High School teams have kicked off the year strong. The football team is currently tied for 1st place in the district with an undefeated record of 4-0. Their hard work and dedication are paying off in district play.

Meanwhile, the volleyball team is performing well, holding a solid 3rd place in District 20-5A. With their eyes set on the playoffs, the players are determined to advance into the postseason for the second year in a row.

On the courts and in the pool, our tennis and boys’ and girls’ water polo teams all successfully advanced to the UIL Playoffs in the Bi-District Round. Rounding out the fall season with cross country, it appears that all our fall teams are poised to make it to the UIL Playoffs again, continuing the playoff success we saw last year.

YOUTH ADVISORY COUNCIL La Porte Students Named Founding Members of the City’s Youth Advisory Council

Nine La Porte High School students have been selected as the founding members of the City of La Porte’s first Youth Advisory Council, a new initiative aimed at engaging and empowering the community’s youth.

Established in partnership with La Porte ISD, the council underscores the city’s commitment to integrating young voices into local governance and community development.

The Youth Advisory Council aims to provide insights and guidance to the city’s leadership, ensuring that the perspectives of young residents are considered in municipal decision-making. This collaborative effort between the city and school district is a step toward fostering open dialogue and mutual understanding between city officials and youth.

Council members will participate in various projects addressing issues that are important to La Porte’s young residents. Activities might include organizing events, leading community service initiatives, and creating programs tailored to the needs of local youth. Through these efforts, group members will gain valuable leadership experience while contributing positively to their community.

“We are thrilled to launch the Youth Advisory Council with such a capable group of students,” La Porte Mayor Rick Helton said. “This council represents a significant step forward in ensuring that the voices of our youth are heard in the decisionmaking processes of our city.”

La Porte ISD Superintendent Dr. Walter Jackson also endorsed the initiative, emphasizing the importance of student participation in civic engagement.

“Our students’ involvement in the Youth Advisory Council provides them a platform to share their voices with elected officials, strengthening our community’s leadership foundation,” he said.

The City Council appointed the following students to the Youth Advisory Council during its Aug. 12 meeting:

- Amelia Leyva

- Dava Richards

- Jaime Thomas Licon

- Keondre Reese

- Lillian Woolard

- Liz Olivera

- Lucas Halbardier

- Mallorie Blagg

- Marissa Lenae Cruchelow

As the Youth Advisory Council embarks on its mission, the city encourages residents to celebrate this development and participate in upcoming initiatives. Information about the council’s activities will be shared through city communication channels.

This initiative aligns with the City Council’s 2023 Strategic Plan, which emphasizes governance, communication, economic development, and organizational excellence.

2024 AP SCHOLARS

31 La Porte High School Students Earn Prestigious AP Scholar Awards

Thirty-one La Porte High School students, including 10 recent graduates, have been named as 2024 Advanced Placement Scholars.

The honor recognizes high school students who have demonstrated outstanding college-level achievement through their performance on multiple AP exams, according to information from the College Board. The AP Program announces the honorees each fall.

“These awards are a tremendous honor,” said La Porte High School Principal Dr. Kade Griffin. “We are immensely proud of the hard work and dedication these students have shown to achieve this recognition.”

Deputy Superintendent Julie Abram added, “The AP Program and its course offerings represent a rigorous standard of college-level learning. The high scores our students achieve on AP exams reflect their exceptional capabilities. Earning AP Scholar awards is further testament to the quality of our programs and the talent of our students.”

Student Name Grade Level Scholar Award

Evan Halbardier 10 (Current 11)

Camden Morrill 10 (Current 11)

Sienna Naron 10 (Current 11)

Sarahi Aguilar 11 (Current 12)

Ana Alvarado 11 (Current 12)

Noah Balboa 11 (Current 12)

Xavier Collins 11 (Current 12)

Melanny Cruz 11 (Current 12)

Jaime Licon 11 (Current 12)

Josue Martinez 11 (Current 12)

Nadia Olson 11 (Current 12)

Keondra Reese 11 (Current 12)

Breanna Stephenson 11 (Current 12)

Joseph Vela 11 (Current 12)

Subah Auhona 12 (Graduated)

Ender Burris 12 (Graduated)

Eunice Schwaab 12 (Graduated)

Lila Snider 12 (Graduated)

Sean Sommer 12 (Graduated)

Hailey Spears 12 (Graduated)

Michelle Springer 12 (Graduated)

Moaz Chatta 11 (Current 12)

Natalie Gamble 11 (Current 12)

Lucas Halbardier 11 (Current 12)

Abigail Powers 11 (Current 12)

Blake Schneider 11 (Current 12)

Lillian Woolard 11 (Current 12)

Cassidy Hayes 12 (Graduated)

Juan Puente 12 (Graduated)

Liz Olivera 11 (Current 12)

Angelica Ontiveros 12 (Graduated)

Liz Olivera 11 (Current 12)

AP Scholar

Awards and Criteria

AP Scholar – Student scores 3 or higher on three or more AP exams.

AP Scholar w/ Honor – Student scores average of at least 3.25 on all AP exams & scores of 3 or higher on four or more exams

AP Scholar with Honor

AP Scholar with Distinction

AP Capstone Diploma

AP Scholar w/ Distinction – Student scores average of at least 3.5 on all AP exams, and scores 3 or higher on five or more of these exams

AP Seminar and Research – Student completes rigorous AP Seminar and Research courses, including an extensive study on a topic approved by La Porte ISD Institutional Review Board, and must score of 3 or higher in both classes.

AP Capstone Diploma – Student earns scores of 3 or higher in AP Seminar, AP Research and on 4 additional AP Exams.

JUNIOR HIGH ENGINEERING Junior High Students Embrace Computer Science Elective

Seventh and eighth graders in La Porte ISD are diving into the world of engineering and computer science, learning foundational coding skills and the integration of sensors and switches into their projects.

The course encourages students to tackle practical problems, design effective solutions, and hone their teamwork skills through iterative testing and refinement. While the curriculum touches on robotics competition concepts, its primary focus is on the fundamentals of computer science and automation.

“Learning computer science equips students with skills that are highly sought after in today’s job market, from software development to cybersecurity and data science,” said Heather Komasa, the course teacher at La Porte Junior High School. “As technology becomes increasingly integral to everyday life, students with a solid grounding in computer science will be better positioned to adapt and innovate.”

The robotics aspect of the course focuses on automation and the integration of hardware with software. Unlike robotics clubs, which emphasize competition and task-specific robot building, this class offers a broader curriculum that explores automation systems and real-world applications. Students engage in projects that deepen their understanding of robotics and automation principles.

Komasa envisions expanding the program into more advanced topics and electives, hoping to make it a core offering at La Porte ISD. “I’d love to see it become a staple of our curriculum, preparing students for future academic success and careers in technology, engineering, and innovation,” she said.

Beyond technical skills, the program fosters critical thinking, creativity, and collaboration—essential life skills that will benefit students in any career path. As the course progresses, students are not just learning to code; they are developing the tools needed to navigate and shape the future landscape of technology.

Cultivating Knowledge: La Porte Students Grow Hydroponic Vegetables

In a progressive move towards nutrition education and locally sourced produce, La Porte ISD is embracing hydroponic gardening as a hands-on learning tool. Spearheaded by the School Nutrition department, this innovative project is transforming not only how students think about food but also how they engage with science.

Hydroponics, the method of growing plants without soil, offers an efficient way to cultivate fresh vegetables directly on school campuses. By utilizing vertical gardens and controlled environments, schools are growing a variety of produce, including lettuce, herbs, and soon – tomatoes. The produce is grown and will be harvested in a clean, safe, and controlled environment by La Porte ISD students and nutrition team members. Students will learn how to cut, clean, and prepare many of the items they harvest.

The school nutrition department plays a vital role in this initiative, working closely with local farmers and nutritionists to design menus that incorporate the hydroponically grown produce. This not only enhances the quality of meals but also promotes healthier eating habits among students.

“We’re not only producing food, from seed to plate, but the students are learning how to be scientists,” School Nutrition Director Ralph Wilkins said. “They’re making observations, collecting empirical data, and learning what works and what could be improved. With this knowledge, we hope to produce a better harvest every time and have fun along the way. These gardens are living laboratories, and our students are witnessing scientific principles in action.”

These hydroponic gardens are being integrated into the fourth- and fifth-grade science curriculum. Teachers are collaborating with the nutrition department to develop engaging lessons that cover plant biology, environmental science, and the principles.

PERFORMING ARTS

LPHS Band Receives Much Awaited Equipment Trailer

La Porte ISD took delivery of a 53-foot box trailer in midSeptember that is used to transport band equipment to and from football games and contests. The trailer was designed to La Porte ISD’s custom specifications and has 4,200 cubic feet of space. The Board of Trustees approved the purchase and additionally approved the purchase of a truck-tractor to pull the trailer.

“We’re super excited that the La Porte community and Board of Trustees has given us something so amazing ... something that this band has never had before,” Head Band Director Jason Harvey said. “We’re going to put this to great use.”

2024 All-Region Orchestra Members Selected

This fall at La Porte High School, we had eight exceptional students who successfully advanced to the region orchestra on Saturday, Oct. 5.

The students who earned this prestigious opportunity are:

- Leonel Ascencio - Violin

- Chloe Avalos - Violin

- Aiden Davis - Violin

- Ethan Garcia - Cello

- Evan Garcia - Viola

- William Hoffman - Cello

- Andie Nunez - Cello

- Jason Schumacher - Cello

Marching Contest Season Underway

The La Porte High School Mighty Bulldog Marching Band and Color Guard, in addition to spending countless hours on the practice field, have diligently worked toward another UIL Sweepstakes award. The band is seen in the photos below performing its routine The Tipping Point, and celebrating their success afterwards on Oct. 5 at the USBands Houston Region Contest at Challenger Columbia Stadium.

La Porte ISD Insider • 20

STEM RECOGNITION

LP STEM Facilitator Selected to Honeywell Hall of Fame

For the second time in the three-year history of Honeywell’s STEM teacher recognition program, a La Porte teacher will be honored in front of a Houston Astros crowd.

Secondary STEM Facilitator Shannon Fanning was selected as a 2024 Honeywell Robotics & Coding Hall of Fame Teacher. The program is a collaboration between the company and the Houston Astros Foundation, and annually recognizes 10 Greater Houston teachers who demonstrate commitment and excellence to education through robotics, coding, and general STEM education.

Fanning has coached robotics in La Porte ISD since 2009 and facilitated the districtwide robotics program (with Lomax Junior High teacher Aimee Licce) in 2016. Several robotics teams have since qualified for state competitions.

“Teaching STEM is more than just imparting knowledge—it’s about igniting a passion for discovery and innovation,” Fanning said. “Every lesson is an opportunity to inspire students to explore the endless possibilities of science, technology, engineering, and math. I love watching them connect the dots and realizing their potential to shape the future.”