Students from Rasor Elementary School leading the Pledges of Allegiance

The evening opened with the Rasor Elementary Safety Patrols leading the Pledges of Allegiance to the United States and Texas flags. These young leaders demonstrated their pride in representing their school and district. It was a moment of honor for Rasor Elementary, showcasing the students’ leadership development.

Members of the Plano East JROTC Robotics team posing with Board Vice President Dr. Lauren Tyra

The board recognized the remarkable achievements of the Plano East JROTC VEX Robotics teams. In their first year exploring robotics and drone technology, these dedicated cadets participated in multiple local competitions and quickly distinguished themselves. Despite facing technical challenges at the UIL 6A Texas State Championship, their determination led them to refine their strategies and improve their performance.

Their resilience paid off when the varsity team, the Striking Panthers, swept their next competition by winning the Tournament Champion, Excellence Award and Skills Award. The junior varsity team also made impressive strides, earning second place in the Skills category. Both teams' efforts culminated in an invitation to the prestigious VEX Worlds 2024 Robotics Championship, the largest robotics competition in the world, featuring over 2,380 teams from more than 50 countries. 

The Striking Panthers varsity team members include:

• Paul Butler – 11th Grade

• Joaquin Blas – 12th Grade

• Cristofer Gutierrez – 11th Grade

• Bry-Anna Orange – 11th Grade

• Alec Cruz – 12th Grade

• Addison Rodriguez – 11th Grade

• Peyton Anderson – 12th Grade

• Caleb Williams – 12th Grade

Under the guidance of SGM Anthony Henry, these cadets exemplified hard work, problem-solving and a relentless pursuit of excellence in STEM fields. The district is incredibly proud of their accomplishments and looks forward to what they will achieve next.

Jasper High School Humanities and AP European History Teacher Caitlin Bailey-Garafola was honored by being named an Honoring Outstanding Teacher of Humanities recipient by Humanities Texas.Mrs. Bailey-Garafola was one of only 12 K-12 teachers in Texas to earn this recognition for their contributions to the teaching of the Humanities. Since 1973, Humanities Texas' mission to further quality classroom instruction of the Humanities and to create opportunities for lifelong learning.

Mrs. Bailey-Garafola was chosen for her dedication to lifelong learning and giving back to the district, along with her volunteerism in professional learning and serving on committees within the district and beyond, including with the Dallas Humanities Foundation. 

“I first began working with Caitlin when we were both high school Humanities teachers," said Plano ISD Director of Advanced Academics Dr. Kevin Moore. “As collaborative peers on our district curriculum writing team, I observed firsthand how Caitlin was able to translate her subject matter expertise in the Humanities, World History, and European History into learning experiences that allow students to encounter new ideas and display their learning in new and innovative ways. Caitlin makes an effort to engage students in both lessons and assessments that are authentic reflections of learning, even if that means more work on her part to grade short answer assessments rather than multiple choice exams. If I were to create a venn diagram with circles for subject matter expertise, passion for course content, student engagement, campus and district leadership, and just being a genuinely fun person to be around…those circles would overlap around Caitlin Bailey-Garafola. She is a gift of a person and an educator to both Jasper High School and Plano ISD."

Coach Matt Wester (center) with Athletic Director Lonnie Jordan (right) and Board Vice President Dr. Lauren Tyra

Plano ISD was proud to recognize Matt Wester, head coach of the Plano East boys’ basketball team, who led his team to an extraordinary season. Wester's leadership brought the Panthers to a 40-0 record, securing the program’s first state title and an impressive No. 8 ranking in the MaxPreps Top 25 national rankings.

Dr. Lauren Tyra, Thomas Williams, Cristi Foreman, Janet Johnson, Connie McClure at the October board meeting

Superintendent Dr. Theresa Williams was thrilled to announce the launch of the Plano ISD Proud Awards, which honor staff members who exemplify the district’s core values: Commitment to Excellence, Dedication to Caring and Powered by Learning. These individuals go above and beyond in their roles, consistently demonstrating excellence in serving students and colleagues. Congratulations to our inaugural winners:

• Cristi Foreman - Special Education
• Jan Johnson - Instructional Technology
• Connie McClure - Wells Elementary School
• Thomas Williams - Bowman Middle School

The inaugural winners, celebrated during the board meeting, were selected for their exceptional contributions to the district, setting a high bar for future honorees. This new award program represents Plano ISD’s commitment to recognizing the extraordinary work of its staff members.

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Plano ISD principals and members of the School Leadership & Innovation team at the Principal Appreciation Month reception held prior to the board meeting

The board also took time to honor the leadership of Plano ISD principals by recognizing October 2024 as National Principals Month. Principals play a pivotal role in driving academic success and fostering a positive school culture, going above and beyond their job descriptions to support students, staff and parents.

Many principals were present at the board meeting, standing in recognition of their tireless efforts. The resolution recognized principals as educational visionaries, instructional leaders, community builders and role models for students and staff alike. Their commitment to maintaining high academic standards while cultivating safe and supportive learning environments was applauded.

The following Plano ISD principals were recognized:

• Kristin Bishop

• AntreShawn Buhl

• Bryan Bird

• Karen Williams

• Jennifer King

• Patricia Hempstead

• Karma Cunningham

• Dr. Kim Blackwell

• Deni Bleggi

• Dr. Denise Lohmiller

• Kristi Graham

• Jennifer Caplinger

• Wendy Miller

• Emily Huechteman

• Stephanie Paholski

• Leigh Ann Earnhart

• Kristen Glasscock

• Christy James

• Tara Lane

• Sara Meyer

• Felipe Vargas

• Lisa Long

• Jordan Mullins

• Kristen Kinnard

• Natalie Bauerkemper

• Gregory Pierce

• Brooks Baca

• John Tedford

• Jill Engelking

• David Jones

• Billie Jean Lee

Board Vice President Dr. Lauren Tyra (far left) with the Plano ISD Human Resources Department

The board adopted a resolution declaring October 9, 2024, as Human Resources Day in Plano ISD. This recognition highlights the critical role that the HR team plays in the district’s success. From recruiting and retaining high-quality educators and staff to fostering a positive and supportive work environment, the HR team ensures the district’s workforce remains strong and motivated.

The resolution praised HR professionals for their instrumental role in shaping the future of Plano ISD by supporting staff development, managing employee satisfaction and navigating workforce trends. The HR team’s dedication contributes to the overall productivity and success of the district, making their contributions invaluable.

Plano ISD Superintendent Dr. Theresa Williams (center) with previous Athena Award winners

During a special surprise recognition at the Board of Trustees Meeting on Tuesday, October 1, 2024, Plano ISD Superintendent Dr. Theresa Williams was announced as the Plano Chamber of Commerce’s 2024 Athena Award recipient.

The surprise announcement was made by 2023 Athena Award winner Suzy Jones of ArtCentre of Plano, who said, “Each year, this prestigious award recognizes one of Plano’s most accomplished professional women who excels in her field, devotes time and energy to her community and empowers other women to succeed.” Dr. Williams was selected for her outstanding educational leadership and commitment to mentoring future leaders in Plano ISD and beyond.