Congratulations to LaLynda Clements on being named the new principal of Bonnie P. Hopper Primary.

LaLynda Clements brings a strong educational foundation and a deep commitment to Goose Creek CISD to her role as principal of B. P. Hopper Primary. Throughout her career in the district, she has served in various roles, including kindergarten teacher, special education resource teacher, 504 coordinator, assistant principal, and principal.

Ms. Clements’ connection to the Baytown community began in high school when her family moved to the area. As a proud graduate of Sterling High School and former Sterling Star, she looks back fondly on the school that became her second home. She went on to earn both her bachelor’s and master’s degrees in Journalism and Communication from Stephen F. Austin State University. She later completed a second master’s degree at Lamar University to pursue her passion for educational leadership.

Outside of work, Ms. Clements enjoys spending time with her daughter, Graycen—a University of Tennessee student and spirited SEC fan. Together, they make the most of summer and holiday vacations, with recent favorites including London and New York City.

“Hopper Primary is a special place where learning is filled with joy, discovery, and support, and I’m honored to serve a campus dedicated to helping every child grow.”

By Kami Johnston, GCCISD CTE Business and Community Partner Facilitator

Goose Creek CISD (GCCISD) has officially named Daniels Meat Market as the Career and Technical Education (CTE) Partner of the Month for April. While many know the market as a local staple for quality service, the business has evolved into a vital pillar of the school community.

Daniels Meat Market currently serves on the Culinary Advisory Board and hosts teacher job shadows to ensure educators remain current on industry standards. Their commitment to students goes beyond employment; the team provides hands-on coaching for contest preparation and conducts mock interviews to sharpen students’ professional skills.

Recent expansions in the partnership have allowed the district’s meats program to purchase products directly from the market after Daniels became an official vendor. This collaboration extends to the FFA, where the market supports the Ford Leadership program focused on agricultural literacy and provides steadfast backing for students at the Baytown Youth Fair.

The market’s generosity also extends to the district’s faculty. During CTE Month, Daniels helped celebrate all the district's CTE teachers with a thoughtful gift and continued that momentum by hosting lunches during Teacher Appreciation Week. Local students have also benefited from the expertise of the market’s owner, Mr. Jack Adcox, who served as a distinguished judge for the district's Battle of the Bridge Culinary Challenge.

The Daniels team consistently remains available for support and is ready to help. This unwavering commitment to students and staff has cemented their role as a dedicated champion for the future of the district's CTE programs.

To learn more about how local businesses can partner with the Goose Creek CISD Career and Technical Education Department, visit their website, https://schools.gccisd.net/page/cte

Goose Creek CISD students earned top honors in the Baytown Rotary Essay Contests and were recognized during the Baytown Rotary Luncheon on May 6.

The contests highlight student writing, critical thinking, and leadership through essays focused on character, decision-making, and community values.

The following students were recognized:

8th Grade Drug Awareness Contest

• 1st Place: Joah Rambo, Highlands Junior School ELA Teacher: Debra Ibarra
• 2nd Place: Faith Mitchell, Highlands Junior School ELA Teacher: Emily Kellner
• 3rd Place: McKenzie Harewood, Cedar Bayou Junior School ELA Teacher: Mariana Martinez

7th Grade 4-Way Contest

• 1st Place: Nai'Yani Parker, Horace Mann Junior School ELA Teacher: Brittany Johnson
• 2nd Place: Michelle Mendieta, Horace Mann Junior School ELA Teacher: Brittany Johnson
• 3rd Place: Bella Barrientos, Horace Mann Junior School ELA Teacher: Brittany Johnson

Goose Creek CISD congratulates these students and teachers for their hard work and accomplishments.

Congratulations to Lindsey Singla on being named the new principal of Highlands Elementary.

Lindsey Singla is a passionate educational leader with 16 years of experience dedicated to student success, strong relationships, and building collaborative school communities. Since moving to Texas in 2022, she has proudly served in Goose Creek CISD, first as assistant principal at Clark Elementary for two years and then as principal at Hopper Primary for two years. Prior to joining GCCISD, Mrs. Singla served as director of High Road School in Bloomington, Illinois, a school supporting students with needs beyond what their home districts could provide.

Mrs. Singla earned her Bachelor of Arts in Elementary Education from Monmouth College and her Master of Science in Education in Educational Leadership from Western Illinois University. She is currently pursuing her Doctor of Education in Educational Leadership with a Superintendent Specialization at the University of Houston–Clear Lake.

Outside of school, Mrs. Singla enjoys spending time and traveling with her husband, their two children, and their two dogs.

“I am overjoyed to continue serving the Highlands community as principal. I look forward to partnering with students, staff, families, and the community to support, inspire, challenge, and empower every child to succeed.”

Goose Creek CISD (GCCISD) student artists earned statewide recognition at the 2026 State Visual Arts Scholastic Event (VASE).

More than 32,000 student entries from across Texas were submitted through regional competitions, with only 2,141 advancing to the state level. At the state event, each Goose Creek CISD student artist earned a medal with the highest possible score of 4.

In addition, Goose Creek Memorial High School senior Gavin Wyatt earned the prestigious Gold Seal award, placing his artwork among the top 7% of all entries statewide. Only 151 pieces across Texas received the distinction.

Goose Creek Memorial High School

• Gavin Wyatt, 12th grade, Division 3 Gold Seal Recipient Teacher: Johnna Morris Artwork: Clockwork
• Melody McMurrey, 12th grade, Division 4 State Medalist Teacher: Johnna Morris Artwork: The Blooming Bust
• Melody McMurrey, 12th grade, Division 4 State Medalist Teacher: Johnna Morris Artwork: Angelica
• Daniela Bayardo, 11th grade, Division 3 State Medalist Teacher: Brandi Aguilar Artwork: Pulse Of Color

Robert E. Lee High School

• Diego Trevino, 12th grade, Division 4 State Medalist Teacher: Melissa Rangel Artwork: Shadow and Bone
• Luis Magallon, 12th grade, Division 2 State Medalist Teacher: Melissa Rangel Artwork: Flow of Causality
• Hollie Hester, 10th grade, Division 1 State Medalist Teacher: Canace Ferguson Artwork: Beyond the River
• Ellani Rosenbaum, 9th grade, Division 1 State Medalist Teacher: Canace Ferguson Artwork: Predator and Prey

Ross S. Sterling High School

• Vivian Montez, 12th grade, Division 4 State Medalist Teacher: Annie Watson Artwork: Eating Myself Away
• Nayeli Perez, 12th grade, Division 4 State Medalist Teacher: Annie Watson Artwork: Like the First Day We Met

Goose Creek CISD congratulates these talented student artists and their teachers for representing the district with excellence on the state stage and continuing to showcase the creativity and talent found across GCCISD schools.

View All Artwork

Highlands Elementary School is soaring to new heights after earning multiple prestigious recognitions for student leadership and service during the 2025-2026 school year.

Highlands Elementary was officially named a 2026 American Student Council Association (ASCA) Student Council School of Excellence, a national honor recognizing schools whose student councils demonstrate exemplary leadership, service, student voice, and community impact.

The ASCA review committee specifically highlighted the inspiring projects and thoughtful reflections submitted by Highlands Elementary’s Hawk Council throughout the year.

In addition to the campus recognition, Highlands Elementary Hawk Council sponsors Kaley Mitchell and Renee' Stripling were named 2026 ASCA Exemplary Advisors for their outstanding dedication, leadership, and commitment to developing student leaders on campus.

Adding to the celebration, Highlands Elementary also received the 2026 Texas Elementary Principals and Supervisors Association (TEPSA) Student Leadership Award. This statewide recognition honors campuses across Texas that demonstrate exceptional student leadership and create a positive impact within their school communities.

The Hawk Council has played an active role in supporting campus initiatives, promoting school spirit, serving the community, and creating opportunities for student voice and involvement throughout the school year.

Highlands Elementary continues to embody the values of leadership, service, and excellence, helping Hawks “Soar Above the Rest.”

Goose Creek CISD is excited to announce that, beginning with the 2026-2027 school year, the district will become an open-enrollment district, creating new opportunities for both current families and families living outside district boundaries to explore the schools and programs that best fit their students’ interests and goals.

Applications for the 2026-2027 school year will be open from May 11, 2026, through June 30, 2026.

Through open enrollment, current GCCISD students may apply to attend a different campus or program that aligns with their academic interests, career goals, or learning needs, while families outside the district attendance zone may also apply for their students to attend GCCISD schools.

Families interested in learning more are encouraged to complete the district’s interest survey for personalized support in identifying the right fit for their student. After submitting the survey, a representative from the Student Services Department will contact families to assist with the process and answer questions.

This move reflects Goose Creek CISD’s continued commitment to expanding student opportunities and ensuring every Giant has access to innovative programs and meaningful pathways to success.

Goose Creek CISD offers programs that stand out not only locally but across the state. From early childhood education to college and career readiness, the district continues to invest in opportunities that help students grow academically, socially, and personally.

Our Pre-K program features museum-like learning concepts that create engaging, hands-on environments where young learners can explore, discover, and thrive.

At the secondary level, Goose Creek CISD offers 10 Career and Technical Education academies that provide hands-on learning experiences and prepare students for life beyond graduation. Students have opportunities to earn industry certifications, college credit, and workforce-ready skills in high-demand career fields.

Students may also apply to attend IMPACT Early College High School, where they can earn college credit and even an associate degree while still in high school.

Beginning next school year, Goose Creek CISD high schools will also transition to a 5x5 schedule, creating additional flexibility for students to earn more credits, participate in free college courses, and personalize their academic pathways.

For families seeking a more flexible or non-traditional option, the GCCISD Virtual Academy continues to provide a structured online learning environment led by certified teachers.

Approval is based on campus space, staffing availability, and the student’s discipline, academic, and attendance records. Transfer students are expected to follow all district rules and expectations, and violations may impact current or future transfer approval.

Please note that Goose Creek CISD does not provide transportation for transfer students. Families are responsible for transportation to and from school.

Additional information, the interest survey, and application details are available at the Goose Creek CISD Enrollment Information page at https://www.gccisd.net/page/enroll.

It didn’t start in a boardroom or through a formal proposal. There was no strategic plan, no long-term roadmap, just a conversation on the sidelines between a coach and a soldier assigned to recruiting duty. Nearly a decade later, that moment has grown into a full-scale, immersive U.S. Army Experience that includes a basic training challenge and a Career Expo, impacting hundreds of student-athletes each year.

Back in March 2017, at Harker Heights High School in Killeen ISD, what began as a small initiative serving just 100 students quickly revealed its potential. Built around discipline, teamwork, effective communication, cohesion, and exposure to military careers, the program resonated deeply with student-athletes. By 2020, the effort had scaled across the district, reaching four high schools and roughly 600 students annually. Then, like many in-person programs, it came to an abrupt halt in March 2020 due to the COVID-19 pandemic.

What could have been the end turned into a reset. In March 2025, the program relaunched. It came back stronger, more intentional, and thriving. What makes this initiative stand out is its authenticity. This isn’t a classroom presentation or a one-day event. It’s a multi-day, boots-on-the-ground College, Career, and Military Readiness (CCMR) experience where student-athletes step into the rhythm and rigor of Army life.

Participants engage in team-building exercises, leadership challenges, and real-world simulations that mirror the demands of military service. For many, it’s their first exposure to a structured environment that pushes both physical and mental limits. The experience meets them where they already are: on teams, under pressure, and striving for something bigger than themselves.

The program’s success hasn’t gone unnoticed. Coach Garson Wayne Skelton, one of the initiative's original champions, currently at Clark Elementary in Goose Creek CISD, received rare recognition from senior Army leadership. Both the Lieutenant General, Kevin D. Admiral, III, Armored Corps and Fort Hood commanding general, and the commander of the U.S. Army 5th Recruiting Brigade, Colonel Julian Perez, honored Coach Skelton’s contributions with official challenge coins, symbols of respect typically reserved for exceptional service. Those recognitions underscore something important: this isn’t just a school program with military support. It’s a true partnership.

Now, the next chapter is taking shape. Plans are underway to expand for the 2026-2027 school year to districts whose priorities align with emphasis on STEM pathways and CCMR. For district leaders, the program offers a rare opportunity: a proven model that blends physical development, leadership training, and career exposure into one cohesive experience.

To ensure alignment from the start, Sergeant First Class Leroy Betts III, 3rd Armored Corps and Fort Hood Public Affairs Office, emphasizes the importance of building relationships and shared ownership with district leadership. The proposed dates for the 2027 session are set for March 23rd-25th. The scheduling is intentional, avoiding conflicts with April testing windows and maximizing student participation. It’s a small detail that reflects a larger truth: this program works because it respects both worlds, education and military training, without compromising either.

In the short term, efforts to expand focus on communication and coordination. Introductions are being made to key district leaders, including Goose Creek CISD, to lock in a potential expansion. What started as a sideline conversation has evolved into a scalable model for student engagement, one that builds resilience, exposes career pathways, and strengthens connections between schools and the military.

The GCCISD Board of Trustees has approved a 2% general pay increase for all staff, continuing the district’s strong commitment to taking care of its people. This didn’t happen by chance. Over the past several years, the district has been intentional about increasing staff pay across the board, making adjustments for experienced teachers, and staying competitive. Today, GCCISD is proud to be at or above the local market median for teacher salaries.

There is even more to celebrate. The district will be opting back into TRS insurance. While this comes with more than 6 million dollars in penalties, the Board made it clear that our employees will not carry that burden. Staying with our current insurance provider would cost over 10 million dollars, making TRS the more responsible choice for the district.

The momentum continues with the 2026-2027 budget. The district presented a proposal to the Board that will be considered for adoption in June. For the first time since 2023, GCCISD is bringing forward a completely balanced budget.

This is what progress looks like. Investing in people, protecting salaries, and building a financially strong future for GCCISD.

Goose Creek CISD Receives First-Time National Recognition for Championing Music Education Goose Creek CISD (GCCISD) has been honored with the Best Communities for Music Education (BCME) Award from The NAMM Foundation for its outstanding support and commitment to music education. Now in its 27th year, the program continues to spotlight and celebrate school districts and individual schools across the United States for their exemplary dedication to music education and their ongoing efforts to ensure equitable access to music learning as part of a well-rounded education.

The award reaches K-12 communities nationwide, offering both recognition and momentum to strengthen and expand music education programs. In 2026, more than 1,000 school districts and schools—including public, private, charter, and parochial institutions—have been recognized for outstanding achievement in providing access to high-quality music education.

“Music education is not an extra in Goose Creek CISD; it is an essential part of how we develop disciplined, confident, and collaborative students. This recognition reflects the commitment of our educators, the support of our community, and the dedication of our students who show up every day ready to grow through the arts. Being named a Best Community for Music Education reinforces that we are on the right path, but more importantly, it challenges us to continue expanding access and raising the standard for what our programs can be. We are proud of this honor, and even more focused on the work ahead.” - Dr. Ray Lavan, GCCISD Director of Fine Arts

Recipients of the 2026 BCME Awards were selected through a comprehensive application and review process that evaluates key indicators, including funding, instructional time, participation rates, facilities, and community support. To uphold the program’s rigor and credibility, all applications were independently reviewed and verified by WolfBrown, a leading research and evaluation firm specializing in education and the arts.

The NAMM Foundation is the charitable arm of the National Association of Music Merchants, the global trade association for the music products industry. The foundation works to remove systemic barriers that limit access to music-making and career pathways in the music industry. By investing in bold ideas and innovative solutions, we strive to build inclusive and thriving musical communities. For more information about The NAMM Foundation, please visit www.nammfoundation.org.