No, the title is not a reference to the constitution, but rather a reflection of the people of Baytown, Highlands, and West Chambers — the individuals who make up Goose Creek CISD. The people: students, staff, parents, and community members, including many with no direct connection to our schools, have shaped my journey as superintendent.

While it would not be possible to personally acknowledge every single person, it may be worth mentioning a few who may serve as a reflection of the many. I arrived in the summer of 2013 as the Deputy Superintendent and was able to obtain the respect of most who identified with my character and work ethic.

A year later, I was named superintendent thanks in large part to the advocacy of School Board President Jimmy Smith and the support of Miss Tracey Wheeler, the longest-standing President of any Chamber of Commerce in Texas. Early on, many members of the public challenged my knowledge and commitment, none more so than Judge Don Coffey. His tough questions and our honest conversations ultimately led to mutual respect and a lasting friendship.

Others stood by me during difficult times as well, including Mike Wilson and Terry Sain, who always seemed to offer support when it was most needed. Community leaders like Gina Rivon, Gilbert Santana, Chet Thiess, Ronnie Hotchkiss, RD Burnside, and Dallas Hughes helped me better understand the nuances of our community as we served on committees together. I cherished my standing Tuesday lunch invitation with the GOOT’S — Jim Finley, Gary Herrington, Gene Washington, George Crow, Jepp Bush, and others — whose wisdom and humor I will never forget.

I valued learning the rich history of our region from Chuck Chandler, Terry Presley, and Wybra Holland. I appreciated insight into our business and civic landscape from former mayor Steven Don Carlos, who also encouraged us to proudly share the great work happening in Goose Creek, including the birth of “Here, We Grow Giants.” I am forever grateful to him for that.

Miss Jessica Woods, a former board member and PTO mom turned board president, played a pivotal role in solidifying my tenure by advocating publicly for my leadership and helping draft a long-term agreement during a challenging period. I remain grateful for the community members who showed up in support during that board meeting, as well as former trustees Gigi Cockrell, Jenice Coffey, Carl Burg, and Ken Martin, who have continued to check in and offer perspective.

My neighbor David Kadjar and his brother-in-law Eddie Gray have long been sources of connection, and I share many fond memories involving Frank and Lanelle McKay, Jay and Kay Eshbach, Billy Combs, Lynn and Dan Foley, and Josh and Kara Joines. These are all reminders that in Goose Creek, help is never far away. I have also been fortunate to work alongside a dedicated board of trustees and an exceptional executive team who truly embody the belief that “none of us is as smart as all of us.” Former Director of Communication Susan Passmore exemplified this collaborative spirit on many occasions.

I think often of those we have lost — Bill McDonald, Pete Alfaro, Melvin Roark, Emily Patrick, and Kerry Tilton — each of whom challenged and inspired me in meaningful ways.

My “We the People” thoughts run deep with a very local flavor. I could go on for pages listing all of the people who have made a positive impact on me, including my local Rotarians, Chamber members, plant managers, local business owners, neighboring school superintendents, and random people at the grocery or hardware store who have all encouraged me along my career journey in Goose Creek.

While I am grateful for the adults who made a lasting impact on my leadership, my deepest motivation has always been the students we serve. My own upbringing taught me to work hard, but it was the teachers and coaches in my life who helped me see possibilities beyond survival. That is why I believe so strongly in identifying students’ gifts early and creating pathways that help them find purpose, direction, and ultimately happiness.

My drive to lead with a purpose greater than myself has made my path clearer, not necessarily easier. Having people who love me like this community has along the way is what has made it possible. Though it is impossible to name everyone who has influenced my journey, please accept this sincere expression of gratitude for all you have done to improve my success as a person, as a leader, as well as the improved life trajectories of our students.

We, the People, have truly built the framework that brings our district motto, "Here, We Grow Giants," to life each day! Thank you, Goose Creek! Thank you, my friends!