Karen Thomas
Giant Alumnus of the Month
Our Giant Alumnus of the Month for April 2025 is Karen Thomas, Lee High School alumni and dedicated Area Executive Director within the district.
With an impressive 37 years in education, Ms. Thomas has worn many hats throughout her career—serving as a teacher, Assistant Principal, and Principal at both Hopper Primary and Travis Elementary.
Twice named Principal of the Year, Ms. Thomas’s work reflects a lifetime of excellence and a steadfast commitment to student success. She has played an integral role in the development and implementation of our Early Learning Academies, helping lay the foundation for high-quality education across four campuses. Her efforts have strengthened early childhood learning and set a new standard of excellence districtwide.
As Area Executive Director, she provides essential support to campus leaders, ensuring schools run smoothly and effectively. Known for her accessibility, Ms. Thomas is always ready to offer guidance, support, and a listening ear to those in need. Her deep well of knowledge, paired with her servant leadership, has inspired countless educators—including those who credit their own growth to her mentorship.
Karen’s unwavering work ethic and commitment to uplifting others—without ever seeking the spotlight—make her a true Giant among us.
Thank you to Houston Methodist Baytown Hospital for sponsoring this award.
Mayra White
Giant Staff Member of the Month
Our Giant Staff Member of the Month for April 2025 is Mayra White, School Nurse at IMPACT Early College High School.
Nurse White exemplifies what it means to be a true champion of student and staff wellness. Through her unwavering dedication, IMPACT was recognized as one of America’s Healthiest Schools for the 2022–2023 school year. The following year, her continued efforts led to national recognition in five distinct topic areas—an honor celebrated at the prestigious National Leaders Summit.
Her passion for health education shines in everything she does. Whether working with the School Wellness Initiative to provide meaningful lessons on stress and anxiety, or leading professional training on AED use and first aid for staff, Nurse White’s influence is felt across the entire campus. She goes beyond the nurse's office—bringing lessons into PE classes to promote healthy eating with interactive activities and empowering students with knowledge and care.
As facilitator of the Spartan Market, she has been instrumental in ensuring food security for our families through a partnership with the Houston Food Bank. Her leadership also brought the Sun Safety program to life on campus, earning the school new picnic tables and umbrellas to promote healthy outdoor habits.
Beyond her impactful programs, what truly sets Nurse White apart is her heart. Despite having much on her plate personally, she consistently shows up with a smile, a warm presence, and a ready ear. Students often return just to talk to her—proof of the safe, caring space she creates. She supports students academically, emotionally, and physically, always seeking ways to help them thrive.
Being a school nurse at IMPACT is no small task, but Nurse White has embraced it with excellence, compassion, and strength. She is an essential part of our team and a powerful force for good on campus.
Thank you to Houston Methodist Baytown Hospital for sponsoring this award.
Luke Mitchell
Giant Student of the Month
Our Giant Student of the Month for April 2025 is Luke Mitchell, 4th grader at Highlands Elementary.
Luke’s journey this year is nothing short of inspirational. From achieving personal, academic, and emotional goals to demonstrating extraordinary bravery, Luke has proven that grit, kindness, and perseverance make a true GIANT.
Academically, Luke has soared—earning 1st place in UIL Storytelling, 5th in the campus spelling bee, and reaching his goal of making the All A & B Honor Roll for the very first time.
Outside the classroom, Luke continues to shine. He earned 10th place in market swine at his very first major livestock show—the San Antonio Livestock Show and Rodeo—showcasing his dedication to raising and caring for animals that are often three times his size. His hard work, patience, and persistence with his animals are a reflection of his character.
Luke was also selected as a PBIS Ambassador for his exceptional behavior, empathy, and kindness toward both peers and adults—serving as a role model across campus.
But perhaps Luke’s most heroic moment came beyond school walls—when he courageously rescued his baby sister from a house fire in the middle of the night. Despite losing everything in his room, Luke remained strong for his family, especially his siblings, showing a kind of courage and selflessness that can’t be taught.
Luke is truly a superhero—not just because of what he’s achieved, but because of who he is. His bold heart, unstoppable spirit, and kindness inspire everyone around him. Luke is the definition of what it means to be a Giant.
Thank you to Houston Methodist Baytown Hospital for sponsoring this award.