By: Nancy Bonds, Director of Communications

Goose Creek CISD (GCCISD) marked a major milestone in community engagement and student support with a ribbon-cutting ceremony for the new Community Support Center at the Peter E. Hyland Empower Academy on December 16, 2025.

District leaders, Board members, community partners, and campus staff gathered to celebrate the opening of the center, a dedicated space that connects students, families, and community members with essential resources that promote stability, learning, and long-term success.

The Community Support Center brings together a food bank, adult learning programs, and Texas Workforce Commission services, creating a centralized hub focused on removing barriers and expanding opportunities for the Goose Creek community.

“This moment reflects our shared commitment to creating opportunities that empower students and strengthen families,” said Superintendent Dr. Randal O’Brien. “What began as a vision has become a reality that enhances how we support our students personally and beyond the classroom.”

The Peter E. Hyland Empower Academy, built on the foundation of the former Peter E. Hyland Center, serves students through a non-traditional learning model that emphasizes small class sizes, expanded counseling services, and strong community partnerships. The addition of the Community Support Center extends that mission by addressing both immediate needs and long-term goals for families.

Board President Jim Campisi emphasized the collaborative effort behind the project. “This center represents a significant step forward for Goose Creek CISD,” Campisi said. “We are grateful to our educators, staff, facilities team, architects, contractors, and community partners who worked together to bring this space to life.”

Principal Alicia Brooks highlighted the impact the center will have on students and families. “This is more than a building,” Brooks said. “It is a resource, a support system, and a bridge to opportunity. Through access to food support, adult education, and workforce resources, we are empowering families to pursue their goals and build a stronger future.”

The ceremony recognized key partners and contributors, including the GCCISD Facilities Planning and Construction Department, Lockwood, Andrews, & Newnam, Stantec, Dura Pier Facilities Sources, and the administrative team at Peter E. Hyland Empower Academy.

This Community Support Center represents GCCISD’s continued commitment to holistic support, meaningful partnerships, and creating pathways for success for our families and community.

Story by: Nancy Bonds, Director of Communications

The Goose Creek CISD (GCCISD) Fine Arts Department is proud to announce the winner of the district’s annual Christmas Card Design contest. This year’s winning artwork was created by Serenity Malone, a fifth-grade student at Carver Elementary School, whose remarkable design will be featured on GCCISD’s official Christmas card.

Serenity’s artwork was selected for its originality and artistic excellence. Her design beautifully represents the spirit of the season and the talent found throughout the district. She created the winning piece under the guidance of her art teacher, Mr. Harry Barber.

Serenity was formally recognized for her achievement at the December 15 GCCISD Board of Trustees meeting, where she was honored in front of district leadership, trustees, and community members. Her family joined her for the special celebration.

“Carver Elementary is incredibly proud of Miss Serenity Malone and this outstanding accomplishment,” Erica Smith, Carver Principal, shared. “Her drawing was truly exceptional and reflects both her creativity and talent. This recognition is well deserved, and we celebrate her achievement with great pride.”

The GCCISD Fine Arts Department congratulates Serenity on this well-earned honor and thanks all student artists who participated in this year’s contest. The district remains committed to Growing Giants through strong fine arts programming that promotes self-expression and student excellence.

Story by: Nancy Bonds, GCCISD Director of Communications

Goose Creek CISD and Lee College Launch HVAC Internship Partnership to Build Local Workforce Pipeline Goose Creek CISD (GCCISD) and Lee College are strengthening their commitment to workforce development through a new HVAC internship partnership that provides students with hands-on, real-world learning experiences while supporting the district’s facilities and maintenance operations.

The five-week internship program, developed in collaboration with Lee College and GCCISD’s Maintenance and Career and Technical Education (CTE) teams, recently celebrated the successful completion of its first two student interns, Nicholas Hernandez and Kevin Camese.

Through the partnership, students gain practical experience working alongside industry professionals and apply classroom instruction in real-world commercial settings.

“Through the partnership between Lee College and Goose Creek CISD, students gain meaningful, real-world experience that brings their skills to life,” said Renita Price, Program Manager for Work-Based Learning at Lee College’s McNair Center. “This collaboration supports Lee College’s commitment to creating an ideal student experience and Goose Creek CISD’s mission to develop the whole child. Together, we are growing giants.”

Intern Nicholas Hernandez shared that the opportunity allowed him to expand his skills beyond residential work.

“It was a great learning opportunity,” Hernandez said. “We were hands-on and exposed to all aspects of HVAC, including commercial systems, not just residential. It really helped connect what we learned in class to real-world work.”

Kevin Camese became the first student to complete the internship, earning strong recommendations from both Lee College and Goose Creek CISD staff. “Kevin showed dedication, a strong work ethic, and a real eagerness to learn,” Price said. “He was highly recommended and took full advantage of the opportunity.”

According to Mike Rasmussen, Director of Maintenance for Goose Creek CISD, the internship program has been years in the making.

“This five-week program with Lee College represents something we’ve been working toward for a long time,” Rasmussen said. “These were the first two students to complete the internship, and it was exciting to see it come together through our partnership with Renita, Lee College, and our CTE team. Looking ahead, this program will focus on current students of Goose Creek CISD. We have excellent technicians who are eager to train the next generation.”

GCCISD and Lee College are already exploring opportunities to expand the partnership to include additional skilled trades, such as electrician and plumbing programs.

Lee College HVAC instructor Robert Hamilton, who has more than 10 years of industry experience and began teaching in August 2024, said the internship experience brought everything full circle.

“Giving back to students feels full circle for me,” Hamilton said. “The program went really well, and internships are something you truly have to live to understand. The feedback has been strong for both the program and the internship experience. Nicholas and Kevin were top candidates from their classes, and I confidently recommended them.”

The HVAC internship partnership reflects a shared commitment between Goose Creek CISD and Lee College to prepare students for high-demand careers while strengthening the local workforce.

Goose Creek CISD (GCCISD) was honored to participate in this year’s Association for Migrant Educators of Texas (AMET) Conference, hosted at the Baytown Hyatt, where students and staff helped bring the event to life through service and collaboration.

The AMET Conference welcomed more than 250 attendees, bringing together educators, partners, and advocates from across the state to collaborate, share best practices, and strengthen support for migrant students throughout Texas.

AMET is a non-profit organization that supports migrant educators across Texas to ensure every migrant student has access to a quality education. Through AMET, educators are empowered at the national, state, and local levels as they equip each child with the skills and resources necessary for success.

Talented GCCISD students, along with the district’s Multilingual & Migrant Department, played a key role in enhancing the conference experience by providing entertainment and creating beautiful handmade centerpieces and décor that showcased the creativity and heart of the Goose Creek community.

Student performances throughout the conference included a Color Guard performance by Goose Creek Memorial High School, the national anthem performed by Lance Henry of Goose Creek Memorial High School, entertainment by the Lee High School Jazz Band, and closing-session entertainment by the Gander Steel Band.

As part of the conference preparations, Mima Trujillo and Veronica Dyson from GCCISD’s Community Engagement Team led a meaningful paper-flower service project in collaboration with students from the College Assistance Migrant Program (CAMP) at West Texas A&M University. The project not only supported the AMET Conference but also helped kick off preparations for GCCISD’s upcoming Día del Niño celebration next spring.

“We are incredibly grateful for the opportunity to work alongside the CAMP students from West Texas A&M University,” said Trujillo and Dyson. “Their enthusiasm, creativity, and willingness to serve made this project truly special and set the tone for an exciting Día del Niño celebration.”

GCCISD also extends sincere appreciation to the City of Baytown for thinking of the district for this service project and for its continued support of student-centered, community-driven initiatives.

Jasmine Montoya, Director of the College Assistance Migrant Program at West Texas A&M University, shared the impact of the experience on her students:

“Our students had a wonderful time participating in this service project. Service is an essential part of the CAMP experience because it teaches our students that their impact extends beyond the classroom. Projects like this empower migrant students to see themselves as leaders while they build confidence, connection, and a deeper sense of purpose as they prepare for their future. It's inspiring to see them give back to communities like the ones that shaped them. This service work aligns perfectly with WTAMU’s mission of being a student-centered university that prepares tomorrow’s leaders not only through academics, but through meaningful, regionally responsive civic engagement.”

CAMP students shared that they could not stop talking about how much they enjoyed being creative and expressed interest in decorating their own CAMP office with paper flowers inspired by the project.

GCCISD thanks AMET, West Texas A&M University, the City of Baytown, and all volunteers for their kindness, collaboration, and dedication to supporting migrant students and strengthening community connections.

Story by: Nancy Bonds, GCCISD Director of Communications 

Goose Creek CISD has earned national recognition as one of only six awardees across the Gulf States selected for the Environmental Literacy for Community Resilience grant, a competitive funding opportunity supported by the National Academies of Sciences, Engineering, and Medicine’s Gulf Research Program (GRP) in partnership with the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration’s (NOAA) Environmental Literacy Program.

The district’s project, Empowering Youth for Urban Resilience: Hurricane and Stormwater Solutions in Baytown, Texas, will receive $690,000 over the next three years. Led by Project Director Ginger McKay, the initiative positions Goose Creek CISD students at the center of regional resilience efforts by giving them opportunities to investigate the environmental challenges that directly affect the Baytown community.

Through hands-on research and fieldwork, students from the STEM Academy and Maritime programs will examine local flooding and stormwater issues using NOAA storm data, geographic information systems (GIS), and real-time environmental observations. Their learning experience will be strengthened through collaboration with long-standing community partners, including Texas A&M University at Galveston, the Baytown Wetlands Center, ExxonMobil, Lee College, and the University of Houston–Clear Lake.

Over the course of the project, students will create public service announcements focused on storm preparedness, help design an interactive resilience dashboard for the community, and plan a student-led Urban Resilience Summit to showcase their findings. The grant will also provide 50 $1,000 scholarships to students who demonstrate exceptional civic engagement, leadership, and public communication skills during project events.

This work supports Goose Creek CISD’s continued commitment to integrating STEM learning with civic responsibility and environmental literacy. By engaging students in authentic problem-solving to address Baytown’s vulnerability to flooding, the project strengthens both students' career readiness and the community’s long-term resilience. The national grant is part of a broader $4 million investment supporting place-based education projects across Texas, Louisiana, Mississippi, Alabama, and Florida.

Goose Creek CISD extends its appreciation to the many partners whose support and collaboration helped bring this award to fruition: Mayor Charles Johnson and the City of Baytown; Tracey Prothro with the Baytown Wetlands Center; Connie Tilton of ExxonMobil; Dr. Dini Adyasari of Texas A&M University at Galveston; Dr. Priscilla Sanchez of Lee College; Dr. Michelle Peters of the University of Houston–Clear Lake; and district contributors Richard Clem, Dr. Susan Jackson, Ginger McKay, Leia Miller, and Cameron Jackson.

Goose Creek CISD celebrates this exciting milestone and looks forward to the meaningful student leadership, community partnerships, and innovative solutions that will emerge as the project unfolds.

Goose Creek CISD is proud to announce Dr. Joe Rodriguez as the district’s next Superintendent of Schools.

The Goose Creek CISD Board of Trustees voted unanimously to approve Dr. Rodriguez’s contract. As the 16th Superintendent of Schools for Goose Creek CISD, Dr. Rodriguez brings a strong commitment to student achievement, collaborative leadership, and a future-focused approach that will continue to support the important work happening across our district. Dr. Rodriguez will officially begin his role on Monday, January 5, 2026.

We look forward to welcoming Dr. Rodriguez into this role and beginning the next chapter of leadership for Goose Creek CISD.

“Goose Creek CISD is a special place filled with talented students, dedicated educators, and a supportive community. I’m excited to serve you as we continue to grow Giants, one student and one classroom at a time.”

With twenty-seven years in public education, Dr. Joe Rodriguez brings deep experience and a steady, student-focused vision to every role he serves. His career has included leading at every level—elementary school principal, high school principal, assistant superintendent, and five years as Chief of Schools in Fort Bend ISD, where he oversaw the daily operations of 81 campuses serving more than 78,000 students.

While in Fort Bend, he guided major districtwide initiatives that strengthened academic performance, expanded opportunities for students, and equipped campus leaders with clear systems of support. That work contributed to the removal of low-performing designations and statewide recognition for excellence.

In 2021, he stepped into the role of Superintendent of Fredericksburg ISD, bringing a student-first, team-centered approach that continues to shape the district today. Under his leadership, academic outcomes improved across campuses, the community passed the largest bond in history, employee salaries saw significant increases, and additional safety and security measures were implemented to protect students and staff. Throughout his career, he has remained grounded in one belief: students achieve their best when supported by confident teachers, strong campus leadership, and a community that stands behind them. That commitment has guided his work and shaped the culture he strives to build.

He has also always felt a deep connection to the Baytown area, a place he and his family visit often. When this position became available, it immediately felt like the right opportunity, both personally and professionally. He looks forward to serving Goose Creek CISD families and ensuring every student has the tools, confidence, and support needed to grow into capable, responsible young adults.

Dr. Rodriguez holds a bachelor’s degree in psychology, a master’s degree in educational administration, and a doctorate in educational leadership. He and his wife, Clarissa—a veteran educator—enjoy raising their family and staying connected to the communities they proudly serve.

Story by: Kami Johnston, GCCISD CTE Business and Community Partner Facilitator

Goose Creek CISD (GCCISD) proudly names Turner Industries as the Career and Technical Education (CTE) Partner of the Month for November 2025. Turner Industries is being recognized for its deep commitment to preparing students for thriving careers in the industrial sector through a productive partnership with the district.

While Turner Industries is known for delivering turnkey industrial services and solutions crucial to companies producing fuel, energy, and vital modern materials, the company places equal emphasis on educating students and preparing them for industry careers.

The relationship with Goose Creek CISD holds a distinct place, as it was the first school district Turner Industries teamed up with, and that collaboration has been strong for over a decade. This enduring commitment shows Turner Industries’ dedication to the local area and its future labor pool.

Turner Industries actively supports GCCISD’s CTE programs through several meaningful initiatives designed to give students hands-on experience and job-readiness.

Turner Industries staff serve on the Manufacturing and Industrial Maintenance Career Academy Advisory Board to ensure that the curriculum aligns with current industry needs. They coordinate both teacher and student job shadows and tours, providing essential, firsthand insights into the industry. The company offers dedicated mentoring to students, supporting their professional development and providing financial assistance for programs and individual student needs.

Turner Industries also directly hires GCCISD students, creating a clear pathway from school to professional employment. Additionally, they support Stuart Career Tech students in the prestigious HLSR Industrial Craft Competition, fostering technical excellence. Finally, the company regularly participates in career events for students and families, educating them about opportunities in skilled trades.

With Turner Industries’ continued support, GCCISD students gain the resources, mentorship, and industry connections essential for success in today’s competitive manufacturing industry. Their partnership stands as a prime example of how business and education can work together to build a strong workforce for the future.

For more information on how to partner with GCCISD CTE, visit our website, https://schools.gccisd.net/page/cte.SWC

Goose Creek CISD is proud to announce that Superintendent Dr. Randal O’Brien has been named ExxonMobil’s 2025 Refiner of the Year.

Since 1987, ExxonMobil has presented this prestigious honor to a long-term Baytown citizen whose leadership, dedication, and service have made lasting contributions to the growth and success of the Baytown community.

This year, ExxonMobil’s Glenn Hayes presented the award, stating:

“ExxonMobil honors an outstanding community partner whose contributions have made a lasting impact on the Baytown area. This Refiner of the Year has been a valuable asset to the community, exemplifying a lifelong dedication to investing in the future of our area through education. He has supported our district through remarkable growth and transformation, launched innovative programs like career academies, passed two bonds, and modernized facilities. He championed early childhood initiatives ensuring students start from a strong day one. His vision has earned numerous accolades and, most importantly, he has shaped the future for thousands of students in our community.”

This year’s recognition was shared between two honorees, Dr. O’Brien and Connie Tilton, a longtime supporter of Goose Creek CISD and the Baytown community. Dr. O’Brien shared,

“There is no one more fitting to share this award with. I am honored to stand alongside a tremendous supporter of Goose Creek CISD and our community, Connie Tilton.”

Goose Creek CISD celebrates this recognition as a reflection of Dr. O’Brien’s steadfast leadership, vision, and commitment to building a brighter future for students and families throughout the Baytown area.