During the April board meeting, Panther Pride, a Special Needs Athletic Program affiliated with Plano East Senior High School, was celebrated for its outstanding achievements in the State Special Olympics competition. Led by Head Coach Anthony Ruttenburg and his dedicated team, Panther Pride provides a platform for special-needs students across the district to showcase their athletic talents. The program, which is also associated with Unified Champion Schools and Special Olympics of Texas, promotes social inclusion through various activities including basketball.

Members of Panther Pride reciting the Pledges of Allegiance

Four remarkable athletes from Panther Pride, Courtney Saettler, Nathaniel Smith, Nasia Sneed, and Matthew Kesler, demonstrated exceptional skills by clinching gold and silver medals in the Men’s and Women’s Individual Basketball Skills categories. Their accomplishments not only exemplify their dedication but also highlight the inclusive nature of sports within the Plano community. Unified Peers Rahel Shaikh and Elizabeth Gee were also recognized for their support and camaraderie.

Afterward, Plano East Senior High School and Jasper High School were recognized as they emerged victorious at the recent UIL 6A State Robotics Championships held in Belton, Texas. Competing against teams from across the state, these schools showcased exemplary teamwork and innovation in robotics. Plano East, led by a talented group of students including Sohan Shant and Natalie Gillum, secured the top seed position after dominating the qualification rounds. Jasper High School, represented by students such as Arnuv Modh and Varsha Venkatesh, also demonstrated exceptional performance throughout the tournament.

The Jasper High School Robotics team, joined by Board Vice President Dr. Lauren Tyra (left) and Computer Science Coordinator Dan Blier (back right)

The Plano East Senior High School Robotics team, joined by Board Vice President Dr. Lauren Tyra (left), Principal David Jones (second back right) and Computer Science Coordinator Dan Blier (back right)

Both schools formed a formidable alliance during the competition, alongside Flower Mound High School, leading to a remarkable victory in the championship round. The dedication and hard work exhibited by these students since August reflects their commitment to excellence in STEM education. Additionally, their efforts in community outreach initiatives further exemplify their role as ambassadors for robotics education.

Next, Kaya Jones, a dedicated educator from Christie Elementary School, has been named as a finalist for the prestigious Presidential Awards for Excellence in Mathematics and Science Teaching (PAEMST). With 24 years of teaching experience within the Plano ISD, Kaya has demonstrated a passion for fostering critical thinking skills among her students. Her innovative teaching methods and commitment to diversity in education have earned her this distinguished nomination.

Board Vice President Dr. Lauren Tyra and Kaya Jones (right)

Supported by her family, colleagues, and the Plano ISD community, Kaya's recognition underscores the impact of exceptional educators in shaping the future of STEM education. Her nomination for this esteemed award reflects the high standards of teaching excellence upheld within the district.

Kaya Jones with her husband (far left), her two daughters and sons

Afterward, Dara Villalpando, the Head Start Director of Plano ISD, was honored with the prestigious Vanessa Rich Leadership award during the board meeting. Recognized for her exceptional leadership and dedication to early childhood education, Dara follows in the footsteps of the award's namesake, Vanessa Rich. With a career spanning roles as an assistant principal, teacher, and now as the Head Start Director, Dara's commitment to nurturing young minds has been unwavering.

Board Vice President Dr. lauren Tyra with Head Start Director Dara Villalpando

Accompanied by her family and colleagues, Dara's achievement brings national recognition to the Plano ISD Head Start program. Her tireless efforts to ensure the success and well-being of children in their formative years exemplify the values upheld by the district.


Head Start Director Dara Villalpando with her two daughters, husband and colleagues

For the final recognition of the evening, Dr. Joy Lovell and Dr. Mark Letterer from School Leadership & Innovation (SLI) approached the podium to express gratitude and appreciation for the invaluable contributions of assistant principals accross Plano Independent School District. Recognizing the significance of their roles in ensuring the smooth operations of schools and supporting student success, the SLI team highlighted dedication, leadership and commitment of assistant principals in celebration of National Assistant Principal Appreciation week, which is observed from April 1st to April 5th. 

Assistant principals play a vital role in the educational system, tirelessly working to uphold standards of excellence and foster a conducive learning environment. Their unwavering dedication deserves recognition and celebration.

Dr. Joy Lovell and Dr. Mark Letterer addressing the board as well as assistant principals tuning in virtually