001No. >> Just uh um >> Yes, sir. >> Thank you, money. Good evening, everyone. It is 6:02 p.m. I hereby call the meeting to order. >> [clears throat] >> I'm going to go ahead and start by establishing quorum. If you're here as a board member, please identify yourself uh starting from my right. >> Jessica Ochoa, present. >> I'm present. >> Celso Gomez Jr., present. >> Rosalba Hernandez, present. >> Valeria Vega, present. >> Great. Okay, we do have a majority, so we do have quorum. If any of the other board members show up, I'll make sure that um that we do recognize them. Next item on the agenda is our pledge of allegiance. Ladies and gentlemen, if you're able to do so, I ask that you stand and please face the flag. I pledge allegiance >>
002to the flag of the United States of America and to the republic for which it stands, one nation under God, indivisible, with liberty and justice for all. >> Thank you. You may be seated. Next item on the agenda is agenda item number four. This is our public comment section. If you have signed up to uh provide comments, we ask again that you have 3 minutes to do so. You state your name, and at the end of your 3 minutes, we will inform you. So, um Mr. Secretary, do we have anybody signed up for public comment? >> No public comment today. Thank you. >> Okay, seeing that we have no one that has signed up for public comment, it is the main reason why we are here is student recognition, so agenda item number five. Uh
003we will now have Dr. I mean we will yes, okay, Dr. Margo is not here, but I am going to ask if you don't mind, it's just Ochoa. If board member Ochoa and of course if Dr. Rosalva Hernandez we could make your way to the front of the stage. Thank you, Dr. Hernandez, and of course Ms. Jessica Ochoa. Agenda item five is student recognition. I'd like to invite board members and of course I just did that. This portion is to recognize the La Joya ISD campus Crime Stopper for 2025. Chief Sanchez, if you could do us the honors. >> Greetings to all. Good evening, Mr. Board President, uh ladies and uh Dr. uh Marsha uh Superintendent of Schools and esteemed board members. Today I'd like to uh advise that La Joya ISD Crime Stoppers established
004in 2002 continues to empower students and staff to anonymously report crimes and and safety concerns, strengthening secure learning environment across our across our the district. In February 23rd through the 25th, 2000 2026, our campus Crime Stopper representatives attended the campus Crime Stoppers conference in Amarillo, Texas, where they earned an award and and a student uh selected to serve as a as a student ambassador program. This recognition reflects the outstanding leadership of our students and the strong partnership between our schools and the police department in prompting school safety. I'd like to recognize at this time uh Ms. Ariana Montoya for the uh student board uh board pres uh board of of the year. >> [applause] >> Bella Hoyas Crime Stoppers Texas Best Website of the Year. That was another award they received as a as a
005whole. And last but not least, I'd like to present Ms. Luz Morado that was selected one out of 12 school ambassadors that will represent the the state of Texas in in the Texas Crime Stoppers. Along to >> [applause] >> Along to uh to celebrate this recognition is Ms. uh student body board members uh Olga Torres, Giovanni Hernandez, Pablo Hernandez, Daniela Perez, Estela Estrella Sanchez, and adult board members Blanca Cantu, Marily Tavares, Anabel Lopez, Mark Delgado, Virginia and Virginia Gomez, and last but not and and David Torres, and last but not least our student coordinator officer Luis Luis Salinas. >> [applause] [applause] >> Thanks to everyone in attendance. >> Congratulations. >> [applause] [applause] >> Ladies and gentlemen, before I proceed with our next agenda item, um I did want to share with you that this is
006an important night for our students that are getting recognized tonight and we are certainly grateful to the parents who are here today uh to share that with us. Um, but I'd be remiss if I didn't give Dr. Sorenson an opportunity to to share with you all how special this night is and the recognitions that we are giving to our students. Dr. Sorenson. >> Thank you, Board President. So, I normally um give my superintendent remarks at the end, but very often on nights like tonight, it's empty cuz you all celebrate your students and then you go home and go about your day. So, I wanted to um take a moment and do it on the front end. And I always take evenings like this as a time to remind ourselves how we're surrounded by excellence Every
007single day, our students are displaying excellence, which is what our district is about. In the classrooms, outside the classrooms, on the field, in our choir rooms, in our dance rooms, all across the district, in our CTE classes, everywhere. And so, um as a student, former high school student myself, I didn't always show up for algebra. Right? I showed up because of the things that interested me. Right? And for some of our students, that's athletics, and for some of our students, that's fine arts. For some of our students, it's our UIL competitions. Whatever it is, it's an opportunity to celebrate their excellence beyond test scores, beyond just what happens in an essay. And so, I want to thank every single student who put in time, energy, passion, dedication, persistence, resilience, all of the things that we
008say we want our young people to embody. And so through these evenings, we get to celebrate not only their wins, but who they are developing into as young people. And so to our students, thank you, and I'm so proud of you for all of your work. So can we give all the students a hand? >> [applause] [applause] >> I also would be remiss if we didn't then also acknowledge all of the sponsors and the coaches and the directors and the all all the people who lead these efforts with our young people every day on our campuses. And so thank you to all of you who support each of these groups of children across our district. So can we also have a huge round of applause for the staff that support >> [applause] >> And then
009lastly, and you know, I I've said this to the public before. So I'm a I'm a mom athlete. Um I have a student daughter, right? Who plays softball, and I was out on the field last night until 10:00 p.m. watching her win. And like win in the seventh inning, like a tough win, right? An emotional win. We sit there as parents and we're just rooting for them every second of every single time that they go out there. And we feel their ups and we feel their downs and we feel all the emotions that they go through. And we drive them there and we pick them up and we invest more than just time, money, resources, and everything that goes with it. And so, um I have a son who's in yearbook and he takes photos
010and write and and he contributes. So, again, just really want to acknowledge all of our parents and families who support our young people through all that they do in and outside of the classroom so that they can shine bright like our diamonds and make their dreams come true. It doesn't happen without you. We as a district are stronger for our partnership with you and I know that your children are so grateful for all that you pour in. So, thank you so much parents and families for your support. >> Yes. >> [applause] >> Thank you, Dr. Sorenson. Uh just for the record, it's 6:11 p.m. and for the record just to show that Dr. Carlos Margo has made his way here and joined us. Welcome, Dr. Margo. Next item on the agenda is 5.2 recognition of
011Juarez Lincoln High School, Palmview High School, and La Joya High School Mariachi programs. This will be done by Mr. Ruben Adame, who's director of fine arts. Mr. Adame, all yours. >> Good evening, President Alvarez, esteemed board members, superintendent of schools Dr. Marci Sorenson, district administration, and members of our La Joya ISD community. Tonight is my great honor to recognize several of our fine arts programs and their teachers on various achievements in UIL and art contests. Our first recognition are three outstanding student organizations that continue to elevate the legacy of fine arts in La Joya ISD. This year, the Mariachi programs from La Joya High School, Palmview High School, and Juarez Lincoln High School each earned the distinction of advancing to the 2026 UIL State Mariachi Festival, which was held at Seguin High School on February
01219th through the 21st. Advancing to the State Mariachi Festival is one of the highest honors a Mariachi ensemble can achieve in the state of Texas. The festival is sanctioned by the University Interscholastic League and represents the top performing Mariachi programs across Texas, selected through a highly competitive evaluation process. Each ensemble performs a demanding program of traditional Mariachi repertoire before a panel of expert adjudicators who evaluate musical accuracy, tone quality, ensemble balance, interpretation, stylistic authenticity, and overall musical artistry. Only ensembles demonstrating exceptional musical preparation and cultural authenticity earn the opportunity to perform at the state level. For our students, this recognition represents months, often years, of disciplined practice, after-school rehearsals, and an unwavering commitment to excellence. Mariachi performance requires not only advanced musical skill, but also deep respect for the traditions and heritage that this music
013represents. What makes this accomplishment even more meaningful is that La Joya ISD was represented by all three high school Mariachi programs at the state level. An achievement that reflects the strength of our fine arts programs, the dedication of our teachers, and the extraordinary talent of our students. These ensembles serve as ambassadors of our district, of the rich cultural traditions of our community. Through their music, they preserve history, celebrate identity, and inspire the next generation of musicians. This year, both La Joya High School and Palmview High School earned Division One ratings from all judges at the State UIL Mariachi Festival. While Juarez-Lincoln High School earned a Division Two Excellent rating for their performance. Tonight, we are proud to recognize the students and directors from La Joya High School, Palm View High School, and Juarez-Lincoln High School
014for this remarkable accomplishment and for representing La Joya ISD with pride and excellence on the state stage. Please join me in congratulating these outstanding musicians. >> [applause] >> Students representing Juarez-Lincoln High School Mariachi Sol de Oro are Nuridalia Hernandez, Leonardo Hernandez, Sebastian Castro, Jonathan Hernandez, Luis Gutierrez, Jesus Ramirez, Tatiana Isaguirre Jimenez, David Juarez, Leonel Casas, Zuleka Alanis, Victor Becerra, Diane Verial, and Alan Martinez. Director is Ruben De Los Santos, and principal is Lori Cantu. Woo! >> [applause] >> And sitting in for Ms. Cantu is Mr. Luis Perez. Thank you for being here, sir. Assistant principal at Juarez. >> [applause] >> Students representing La Joya High School Mariachi Los Coyotes are Elian Maldonado, Ezekiel Pena, Antonio Garibaldi, Carlos Solis, Valeria Rodriguez. Are they coming? >> [laughter] >> I'm standing up here by myself. >> You're great,
015Mr. Don. >> Oh, there there they come. Okay. I thought maybe they ran off to another gig somewhere. Okay, let's start again. Elian Maldonado, Ezekiel Pena, Antonio Garibaldi, Carlos Solis, Valeria Rodriguez, Alejandro Mata, Daniela Aguilar, Raul Hernandez, Victoria Medina, Jason Tamez, Joash Sanchez, Jose Alejandro, Christian Rosas, Octavio Ozuna, Guadalupe Martinez, Santiago Ozuna, and Aleya Maldonado. Directors are Dr. Martin Cantu, Nicolas San Elise, and Karina Aldape. Principal is Mr. Eduardo Flores. >> so great. Thank you so much. Thank you. Woo! >> [applause] >> Students representing Palmview High School Mariachi Los Lobos are Aleman Excuse me, Amberly Aleman, Fernando Alvarado, Damien Benavidez, Juan Elizondo, Javier Garcia, Sophia Garza, Natalie Garza, Camila Gomez, Valeria Gonzalez, Adriana Longoria, Carlos Lopez, Fernando Luna, Adriana Marroquin, Jose Luis Martinez, Romeo Martinez, Gabriel Mesa, Kendra Morin, Melanie Morin, Mikaela Ramirez, Ethan Rodriguez,
016Nicolas Reese, Alexandria Zamarripa, Christian Zapata, Charlotte Brown, and Lynette Rios. Director is Mara Garcia, assisted by Ashley Escamilla, and principal is Lian Alanis Herrera. >> [applause] >> Mr. Dominguez, agenda item? >> Yes. >> All right. Next agenda item 5.3 recognition of Weslaco High School, Palmview High School, and La Joya High School mariachi programs and 2026 UIL UIL state outstanding performers. Mr. Dominguez, all yours. >> In addition to recognizing our outstanding mariachis ensembles tonight, we would also like to recognize a special group of students who received one of the highest individual honors awarded at the UIL State Mariachi Festival. At this event, adjudicators evaluate not only the ensemble performance, but they also identify individual musicians who demonstrate exceptional music skill, leadership, tone quality, technical accuracy, and stylistic authenticity within the mariachi tradition. Students who distinguish themselves
017at this level are selected as outstanding performers. This dis- This distinction is reserved for a very small number of students across the entire festival, making it an extraordinary individual achievement. These students represent the very best of mariachi musicianship in the state of Texas. Students selected as outstanding performers are presented with a draped UIL gold medallion, which is worn around the neck during recognition ceremonies and which you'll see around their neck tonight. This medal signifies that the student has demonstrated superior individual musicianship and artistry at the state level, standing out amongst thousands of talented performers who participated in the festival this year. The draped medal is more than just an award. It represents years of dedication, countless hours of practice, a deep respect for Mariachi tradition, and a huge commitment to musical and individual excellence. It
018also symbolizes the pride of their schools, their directors, their families, and La Joya ISD. What makes this recognition even more remarkable is that La Joya ISD is one of very few few districts in the state of Texas who who have outstanding performers recognized in each of its participating Mariachi ensembles. This speaks volumes about the depth of talent within our programs, the strength of our Mariachi directors, and the culture of excellence that exists throughout our fine arts department. Tonight, we are proud to recognize these students for achieving this prestigious honor and for representing representing La Joya ISD with distinction on the state stage. Please help me in congratulating these exceptional student musicians. From Juarez-Lincoln High School Mariachi Sol de Oro, please help me congratulate outstanding performer recipient Jonathan Hernandez. >> [applause] >> Jonathan's parents are Noe
019Hernandez Garcia and Ana Maria Saldaña Sauceda. The Mariachi is under the direction of Ruben De Los Santos. Principal is Lori Cantu and Mr. Perez is here representing Bottis Lincoln High School. >> [applause] >> From La Joya High School Mariachi Los Coyotes, please help me congratulate outstanding performer recipient Aleya Maldonado. >> [applause] >> Okay, that was practice. I'm going to do it again. From La Joya High School Mariachi Los Coyotes, please help me congratulate outstanding performer recipient Aleya Maldonado. >> [applause] >> Her parents are Cuauhtli and Jesus Maldonado. And the Mariachi is under the direction of Dr. Martin Cantu, Nicolas Alanis, and Karina Aldape. Principal La Joya High School is Mr. Eduardo Flores. >> [applause] [clears throat] [applause] >> From Palm View High School, we have three outstanding performers. Please help me congratulate outstanding award recipients
020Sofia Garcia, Ariana Marroquin, and Melanie Morin. >> [applause] >> Sofia's parents are Jose and Sonia Garza. Ariana's parents are Jose and Anna Marroquin. And Melanie Morin's parents are Mario and Myra Morin. Palm View High School Mariachi Los Lobos in the direction of Myra Garcia. Principal is Ms. Leann Alanis Herrera. >> [applause] [applause] >> So, I just want to mention the medallions that you see these fantastic students wearing are equivalent to a state champion medallion that are awarded to state champion athletes. So, in essence, we have five state champions in our mariachi programs. Please give them a big round of applause. >> [applause] >> Thank you for sharing that, Mr. Adame. Next item on the agenda, recognition of Jimmy Carter Early College High School art students. >> Next, we are If you don't mind, sir, I
021can if I can combine the the next two together. >> Yes, sir. >> Okay. Thank you, sir. Next, we are proud to recognize several outstanding student artists from Jimmy Carter High School and La Joya High School who have earned prestigious honors in the 2026 Scholastic Art and Writing Awards. The Scholastic Art and Writing Awards is one of the nation's most prestigious and longest-running recognition programs for creative teenagers celebrating excellence in visual art and writing since 1923. Each year, hundreds of thousands of student submissions from across the United States are evaluated by panels of professional artists, educators, and industry experts. Student work is judged based on originality, technical skill, and a personal student artistic voice. Only a select number of entries receive recognition through gold keys, silver keys, and honorable mention distinctions that highlight exceptional creativity
022and artistic achievement. To earn recognition in this competition is a significant accomplishment as students are competing against some of the most talented young artists in the region and across the country. These honors reflect not only the students' individual creativity and dedication to their craft, but also the guidance and mentorship provided by their art teachers. Tonight, we recognize students who have shown outstanding creativity, dedication, and the confidence to express their individual perspectives through visual art. Their work highlights the vital role that creativity plays in shaping thoughtful and innovative learners. And we have uh some of those art pieces displayed out in the lobby if you want to check them out before you leave. La Joya ISD is extremely proud of these students and the way they represented their campuses and our district through their artistic achievements.
023Please join me in congratulating these young artists for their outstanding accomplishments. From Jimmy Carter High School, please help me recognize silver key recipient Phoenix Perales. >> [applause] >> Phoenix's parents are Myanka Maldonado and Santiago Perales. >> [applause] >> Next, help me recognize honorable mention recognitions for their art submissions. Kaylee Cantu. Kaylee's parents are Erica Cantu and Richard Viegas. And Jose A. Moreno. Jose's mother is Virginia Moreno. >> [applause] >> Also, Jessica Alonso. And Jessica's parents are Arabella Guerra and Jesus Alonso. Our teacher at Jimmy Carter High School is Nilda Vaia. Principal is Dr. Luis Bocanegra. >> [applause] >> Next, I'd like to recognize art students from La Joya High School. Unfortunately, they are not here, but I think it's worthy that we recognize them at this meeting. Madeleine Trevino, who earned a silver key and
024a gold key for her artwork submissions. Madeleine Madeleine's gold key artwork has now advanced to the national level and is currently being judged in New York City. We wish Madeleine the best of luck. Madeleine's parents are Olga Garcia and Luis Trevino. Receiving honorable mention are Angie Valero. Angie's mom is Patricia Valero Palafox. And also Gracia Salas. Gracia's mother is Claudia Salas. Teacher at La Joya High School is Anais Hernandez and principal is Mr. Eduardo Flores. How about a big round of applause for these students? >> [applause] >> Thank you, Mr. Adame. Next item on the agenda is 5.6. Juarez Lincoln High School robotics team advances to UIL First Robotics regional meet. This will be done by Abel Samudio, our UIL academics coordinator. Mr. Samudio. >> Good evening. Thank you for Dr. Flores and board members
025and community for joining us. Parents and those of you watching at home. First up, we'll have the Juarez Lincoln robotics team. They advanced to the third round in the UIL First Robotics contest. First student we have is I got to remove my glasses real quick. Here's Lizbeth Vera. >> [applause] >> Next, Clever Ramirez. Elias Ramos. >> [applause] >> And Carlos Alvarez. Their sponsor, Mr. Villanueva. And Mr. Perez joining them. The Juarez Lincoln robotics team. >> Thank you. >> [clears throat] [applause] >> Thank you. >> Mr. Zamora, next item on the agenda is also yours. Middle It's the middle school Texas Math and Science Coaches Association state qualifiers. You could do us the honors. >> Thank you. Next we'll recognize the La Joya ISD middle school students that advanced to the Texas Math and Science Coaches
026Association state meet. They'll be competing in San Antonio in in late April in math, number sense, calculator, and science events. First up we have from Chavez Middle School, Renee Garzon. >> [applause] >> Renee qualified in calculator. Next we have Janelle Martinez. >> [applause] >> Mathematics. Next, [applause] Alan Reyes, science. Xavier Lopez, math and science. >> [applause] >> Noah Ordas, science. David Sarabia, math and science. Patricio Velez Alanis, math and science. >> [applause] >> Coaches joining them are Mr. Gomez, Ms. uh Benavidez, and Ms. Martinez. >> [applause] >> And principal Mr. Gonzalez. The Chavez Middle School TMSCA state qualifiers. >> Thank you, Mr. Zamora. Congratulations. >> [applause] >> Next we have the Zavala Middle School state qualifiers. First we have Kevin Olvera Sanchez in number sense, calculator, and mathematics. >> [applause] >> Next we have Maximo
027Campusano in calculator and science. >> [applause] >> Alejandro Elizondo, science. >> [applause] >> Santiago Flores, math. Giovanni Gonzalez, math. >> [applause] >> Mateo Garcia, calculator. Asael Garcia, science. Isaac Velasquez Vasquez, uh science. Sorry, I skipped one. Brenda Garza, calculator. Sorry, Brenda. >> [applause] >> And there coaches that are joining them, Miss Lopez, Mr. Vasquez, and Miss Dumalog. >> [applause] >> Principal Miss Gutierrez. Thank [applause] you. Next, we'll have Dr. Science Middle School state qualifiers. First up, we have Edwin Gonzalez in mathematics. >> [applause] >> Santiago Guerra, science. Luis Guerra, science. Santiago Torres, science. Eric Vasquez, science. And Miss Martinez, sponsor joining them. >> Thank you. [applause] Next up we have Garcia Middle School. Garcia Middle School state qualifiers are Edward Garcia in calculator. >> [applause] >> Yadiel Paz in calculator. Sponsor joining them is the
028coordinator Miss Monreal. And principal Miss Olterra. >> [applause] >> Thank you. Next up we have JD Salinas TMSCA state qualifiers. First we have Giovanni Delphine in calculator. >> [applause] >> Next we have Santiago Gonzalez qualified in number sense, calculator, and mathematics. Sponsors joining are Miss Guerrero. Principal Mr. Benya. >> [applause] >> Next up, we've got Memorial Middle School state qualifiers. First, we've got Arnoldo Ochoa in science. Mario Quintanilla, number sense. Jennifer Rocha, calculator. Eva Villarreal, number sense. Jaziel Cantu, number sense, math and science. >> [applause] >> And Luisa Rios, in number sense and science. Sponsors are Ms. Martinez, Ms. Garcia, [applause] and Principal Ms. Lozano. >> Hello, Principal. >> [applause] >> Our last group of number of middle school state qualifiers from Trevino Middle School, we have Claudio Gonzalez in calculator. >> [applause] >> Their
029coordinator Ms. Cadena is joining them along with the principal. >> Congratulations. >> Way to go, guys. >> Congratulations. >> [snorts] [applause] >> Thank you. >> Mr. Zamora, before we proceed with the elementary 5.8, I'm going to I want to thank Dr. Hernandez and board member Ochoa for that. Uh joining me on stage will be Dr. Carlos Moguel, and I'm going to go ahead and turn it over to board member and secretary Mr. Celso Gomez. Mr. Gomez. >> Thank you. >> Next agenda item is 5.8 La Joya ISD elementary UIL district champions. >> Thank you. Um next we'll recognize the La Joya ISD elementary UIL, district champions for elementary for the 25-26 school year. Out of 2,500 students competing in UIL in elementary, these are our district champions per by grade level or per event and
030grade level. Uh first up from Garza elementary in oral reading, Aliza Montelongo. >> [applause] >> Their coordinator, Ms. Sanchez, joining her. >> [applause] >> Next in we'll we'll name of we'll get a couple of schools. Or Okay. Maybe not. >> [applause] >> All right, next up we have um from Cavazos elementary, we've got in calculator third grade, Maxwell Badillo. And their and their sponsor, >> [applause] >> from Seguin elementary in third grade Spanish poetry, Kimberly Erebia. >> [applause] >> Seguin elementary fourth grade mathematics, Alexia Jimenez. >> [applause] >> Fifth uh Seguin elementary fifth grade Spanish poetry, Paola Solano. >> [applause] >> Their coordinator and principal are joining them. And next up from Bensen Elementary second grade oral reading Gareli Cordova. >> [applause] >> Bensen Elementary third grade chess Emma Ramirez. Bensen Elementary fifth grade math
031person in charge Alvaro Garza. >> [applause] >> Bensen Elementary fifth grade mathematics Arturo Cervantes. >> [applause] >> And in from Bensen Elementary fifth grade chess Mauricio Villarreal. >> [applause] >> Sponsors and coaches are joining them. >> Thank you. >> [applause] [clears throat] [applause] >> Give me a little time. Next we have Camarillo Elementary district champion second grade spelling Mariana Gonzales. >> [applause] >> Camarena Elementary 4th Grade Calculator, Christian Martinez. Camarena Elementary 5th Grade Oral Reading, Abriana Trevino. Next from EB Reyna, 3rd Grade Mathematics Oh, sorry. Uh coordinators, coaches, and principal with them. >> Uh that's the score. That's the score. Nothing but the best. >> Next up, we've got EB Reyna 3rd Grade Mathematics, Andrew Vela. Andrew put uh his first name on the on the test. >> [applause] >> Next from EB Reyna, 4th
032Grade Listening Skills, Alexandra Villarreal. >> [applause] >> And from EB Reyna, 5th Grade Ready Writing, Amelia Rios. >> [applause] >> Coordinator from EB Reyna is joining them. And principal. >> Congratulations. >> Next, we'll have Escondon Elementary District Champions. 2nd Grade Creative Writing, Viviana Guerrero. From Escondon Elementary 2nd Grade Spanish Creative Writing, Mateo Obregon. From Escondon Elementary 3rd Grade Ready Writing, Roselyn Rodriguez. >> Coordinator and principal could join them. >> Congratulations. >> [applause] >> Next up we'll we'll have Veterans Elementary second grade Spanish poetry, Kenya Bernal. >> [applause] >> And from JFK Elementary second grade storytelling, Landon Garza. >> [applause] >> Second JFK fifth grade listening skills, Claudia Flores. >> [applause] >> Port coordinator coaches and principal joining them. >> [applause] [applause] >> Next district champ we'll have is from Leo Elementary, third grade spelling, Breanna
033Cardenas. Next from Mendiola Elementary, fourth grade math concepts charts, Johnny Harden. >> [applause] >> Mendiola Elementary, fourth grade Spanish poetry, Catherine Hernandez. >> [applause] >> From Tabasco Elementary, second grade number sense, oh sorry, coaches, coordinators, and principal [applause] joining them. >> [laughter] >> Tabasco Elementary, second grade number sense, Ediela Hernandez. Tabasco Elementary, fifth grade calculator, Amelia Saldana. Saldana. Coaches, coordinator joining them. >> Congratulations. >> [applause] [snorts] [applause] >> And our last group to be recognized will be Sam Ferdice Elementary for the first time in Sam Ferdice Elementary history. They are the district champs for LA JOYA ISD. >> [applause] >> FIRST UP IN SECOND GRADE CHESS, Joaquin Gutierrez. Next from Sam Ferdice third grade number sense and in listening skills, EILEEN MONTELONGO. NEXT IN THIRD grade dictionary skills, Madison Garibaldi. >> [cheering] >> Fourth grade
034number sense, Adriel Lopez. Fourth grade ready writing, Catherine Rios. Fourth grade chess, Emiliano Chavana. Fourth grade dictionary skills, Samuel Rodriguez. Fifth grade number sense, Noah Montelongo. Their coordinator coaches and principal are joining them. Congratulations, Sam Ferdice Elementary. >> [applause] >> Thank you, Mr. Zamora. The next agenda item, 5.9, recognition of Juarez-Lincoln High School Special Olympics state qualifiers, presented by Mr. Jose Pena, executive director of athletics. >> Good evening. Good evening, school [applause] board. Good evening, Dr. Sorenson. Members of the community. Tonight, uh it is my great privilege and honor to recognize several several outstanding student athletes who have earned individual honors across the three comprehensive high schools. These young men and women have dedicated countless hours to their sport, representing their campuses, our district, and La Joya community as a whole. I heard uh the
035superintendent speak earlier about these individual awards that we're giving out today. We did the team awards back in December, and today we're recognizing the individual groups, our students, for all of their accolades that they got during the year for their respective sports. To begin with, though, we're going to start off with our Special Olympics students that have been qualifying for four straight years for floor board to state. So, it is my honor and privilege to start off with uh Juarez-Lincoln High School. >> [applause] >> In recognition for floor board for the 2025-2026 school year, competing at the state level. I'm proud to recognize our students from Juarez-Lincoln High School, starting with Kevin Rojas. >> [applause] >> Fernando Motu. Jocelyn Flores. Alfonso Trejo. Ruben Sanchez. Giovanni Delgado. Eduardo Beliz. And their coaches, uh led by Ms.
036San Juanita Guajardo. Congratulations, students. >> [applause] >> And representing their principal is Mr. J.L. Perez. Congratulations, Huskies. >> [applause] >> Next agenda item, 5.10, recognition of Palmview High School Special Olympics state qualifiers, again presented by Mr. Jose Pena. >> So, once again, uh 4 years in a row, this time we're representing our students from Palmview High School for floor board. We're going to start with our students. Carmen Arriaga >> [applause] >> Jose Perez Cynthia Portillo Jesus Ramirez Juan Rangel And their coaches, Michelle Contreras, San Juanita Pena Julia Cantu Rosana Ramirez and Esteban Medina and their principal Ms. Leanne Alanis Herrera. >> [applause] >> Next agenda item is 5.11 recognition of La Joya High School Special Olympics state qualifiers again presented by Mr. Jose Pena. >> All right, last but not least we have our state
037competition team from La Joya High School for floor board. Let me recognize the following students starting with Navea Aguirre >> [applause] >> Zoe Aguirre Dalisa Davila Maximiliano Hernandez Melanie Martinez Adriana Munoz Jesus Munoz Roberto Vasquez Kira Vela Faith Garcia >> [cheering] >> Nery Moreno Ramiro Soto And their coaches, head coach Edna Garcia, Brenda Garcia, Denise Gomez, Jesus Garza, Liliana Munoz, Valentin Palacios, and Alex Ramos. Congratulations, Lobos. Good job, Coyotes. >> [applause] [applause] >> Next agenda item is 5.12 recognition of what is Lincoln High School boys and girls wrestling regional and state qualifiers presenting again by Mr. Jose Pena. >> Thank you. So once again, I want to just congratulate the parents, the coaches for these students' accomplishments. This is not a team sport as far as the recognition that we're discussing today. This is at
038the district, the regional, and the state level. So all the next students that we're about to be calling up have been selected by their coaches in their district for this prestigious recognition, whether it's district all district, whether it's all South Texas, whether it's all state. So it is my honor to present our two wrestling teams. Juarez-Lincoln is not here today because they're actually at a track meet. So I'm going to go ahead and skip over to Palmview. Okay? Uh before I start, I would just also like to take a moment to recognize all those fathers and their families, your unwavering support, sacrifice, and investments in your sons and daughters. They don't go unnoticed. These individual honors are a reflection not only of our students' hard work, but also the strong foundations you have provided with
039your guidance, encouragement, and unconditional love. Parents, family, thank you for making or giving us the best student athletes here at La Joya ISD, and it's my honor to introduce the rest of the students this night. So from for the regional and state qualifiers for Palmview, I would like to call up the next students, please. Irvin Garcia district champ >> [applause] >> Hasiel Garcia Palmview state qualifier and Rome Navahar second in district second in regionals and state qualifier. I would like to call up their coach Mario Montelongo and girls head coach Elizabeth Hernandez. Oh, Mrs. Abel Hernandez. I'm sorry, ma'am. >> [applause] [applause] >> Okay, next up we're going to have our recognition for La Joya High School boys and girls wrestling for regionals and for state. Once again these students qualified here at the district
040level and made it all the way some of them to the state level. From 11th grade, Aide Roque, fourth in district, regional qualifier. >> [applause] >> Kayla Ramirez, fifth in district, regional alternate. >> [applause] >> Giselle Rodriguez, second in district, regional qualifier. >> [applause] >> Jocelyn Vega, third in district and regional qualifier. Genesis Camacho, second in district, regional qualifier. Lia Guerrero, second in district, regional qualifier. >> [applause] >> And 11th grade, Jacqueline Garcia, first in district, second in regionals, state qualifier. >> [applause and cheering] >> The Lady Coyotes are coached by Christopher Hernandez and Steven Hernandez. >> [applause] [applause] >> Ready to go, ladies? >> Thank you, Mr. Peña. This time, I'm going to go ahead and thank uh President Julian Alvarez and Dr. Carlo Margo, and we're going to swap with uh Valeria Vega
041and myself. Thank you. >> Board President, if I could make one adjustment. >> Yes, please. >> So, coach Coach Peña, I understand we have some other athletes here that we want to introduce from our high schools. >> Yes. >> Excellent. Thank you. >> Thank you, Dr. Sorenson. So, we were waiting on the students to make their loop around. Uh we also have some students from La Joya that qualified for bowling. So, I would like to call them out for the Special Olympics, if you don't mind. Uh starting off with Nivea Aguirre. >> [applause] >> Zoe Aguirre. Dalisa Davila. Gonzalo Gonzalez. >> [cheering] >> Argelio Melendez. Joel Mendoza. Jesus Muñoz. Angel Reyes. Angeleah Sanchez. Mariano Sanchez. Jose Silva. >> [cheering and applause] >> Roberto Vasquez. Kira Vela. And again, their coaches Edna Garcia, Brenda Garcia, Denise
042Gomez, Jesus Garza, Liliana Munoz, Valentin Palacios, Alex Ramos, and their principal Mr. EDUARDO FLORES. >> [cheering] [cheering] [applause] >> MR. PEñA, COACH, WE GO INTO THE NEXT AGENDA ITEM. >> ACTUALLY, if you don't mind, Mr. President, we just had some athletes arrive from Palm View wrestling. >> Hot off the press. >> Yes, hot off the press. >> Great, awesome. I love it. Go ahead, coach. Honors are yours. >> Okay, so going back to regional and state qualifiers, these uh young ladies uh won district or placed in the top three in district. Let me introduce to you uh Miss Jasmine Martinez. >> [applause] >> Marley Mejia. Christina Rocha. >> [cheering] >> And their coaches and the coordinator coach Basan, Claudia Basan. >> Good job, Basan. >> Congratulations, ladies. >> Good job. Good job. >> Ladies. >>
043[applause] [applause] >> Coach, where where are we at, coach? >> It's time for the all district, if I'm not mistaken, sir. >> Cross country? >> All of the other ones. We're at um >> 5:15. >> Cross country, yes. >> Okay. So, recognition of Dr. Science Middle School Girls Cross Country District Champions. Coach, all yours. >> [applause] >> So, I want to take a time to talk about the middle schools again. The middle schools do have the timing of their sports at the same time that we do our December sports. Our Our Our schools from the middle school are not here today because they're actually at the track meet that we're hosting today. So, we're moving on to the high schools, but again, I will be bringing or we will be bringing back the middle schools
044for their team trophies with the understanding that all of them are participating in track today. >> Thank you for acknowledging them. Next item on the agenda on 5:16, recognition of Ann Richards Middle School Boys Cross Country District Champions. >> And that's the same thing for the the following middle schools uh Mr. Alvarez. So, we're going to move on to the high schools. All of our middle schools are currently participating in the in the track meet that we're hosting today. >> Well, good luck to both our young men and women today at the track meet and also uh for the remainder of the tournament. Last Next item on the agenda is 519 recognition and probably honoring our outstanding student athletes from La Joya High School, Juarez Lincoln High School, and Palmview High School for their exceptional
045achievements in football, volleyball, cross country. Again, coach, do me the honors. >> All right, thank you, sir. We're going to start off with La Joya High School uh football. We're going to start off with La Joya High School football all district honors. Again, we had a big list of all district selected students. Uh we're going to start off with our first player Ismael Nico Garza, first team inside linebacker and academic all state, second team. Next from La Joya High School, Ezequiel Zeke Hernandez, first team safety and first team punter. >> [applause] >> Next, Mauricio Mendoza, third team all state, first team halfback, and Monitor's All Valley running back MVP HS South Texas running back and Rio Grande Valley East West Football All Star. Our receiver, Dante Perez, first team slot receiver and honorable mention kickoff
046returner. >> [cheering and applause] >> Max Rivas, team defensive end. George Vela, second team inside safety. >> [applause] >> Jose Luis Cantu, second team inside slot receiver. Hector Padilla, honorable mention inside linebacker. Alex Bocanegra, honorable mention corner. Ismael Lucero, honorable mention slot receiver and academic academic all-state second team. Abraham Sepulveda, honorable mention offensive line tackle. >> [applause] >> And finally, for our Coyote football team, Jared Osuna, honorable mention kicker and high school all South TEXAS PUNTER. >> [applause] [cheering] >> OUR DEFENSIVE COORDINATOR, MR. GONZALEZ. >> [applause] >> WAY TO REPRESENT, BOYS. [screaming] >> [cheering] [applause] >> NEXT, MR. ALVAREZ, IT IS MY honor to recognize our all district volleyball teams from the beginning of the year from La Joya High School. First off, Faith Garcia, first team outside hitter, middle blocker, and Rio Grande Valley
047East-West All-Star Academic All-State Honorable Mention, Miss Faith Garcia. >> [cheering] [applause] >> Next, Jimena Menchaca, second team setter, >> [cheering] >> Desiree Alcala, Honorable Mention Defensive Specialist, outside hitter, Jenica Solis, Honorable Mention outside hitter, right side, >> [cheering] >> and our final all all district selection from La Joya, Briana Reyna, Honorable Mention middle blocker. The coaches is Miss Hanna Perez and her assistants, Coach Marias, Coach Hernandez, and Principal Mr. Eduardo Flores. >> HERE IT COMES. WAY TO GO, LADY [screaming] COYOTES! >> [cheering] [applause] >> CONGRATULATIONS, LADY COYOTES. MR. ALVAREZ, our last representative is from La Joya High. Again, an individual honor and this is for 20 2025 all district cross country. With us tonight is honorable mention from La Joya High School, Mr. Eddie Torres. >> [applause] >> Congratulations, Eddie. All district for La Joya
048High. And his coach, COACH MORENO. >> [applause] >> ALL RIGHT, MR. ALVAREZ, NEXT I'D LIKE to turn it over to La Joya High School all district honors. The following athletes were selected for football. Our top receiver from Sorry, from Juarez Lincoln, Sebastian Lopez, first team offense, wide receiver. And our other first team all district selection that is with us today from Juarez Lincoln High School is Dylan Lopez, first team special teams. >> [applause] >> Coach Cortez. And coach but Irlanda was uh a mother here. The principal is Miss Lori Cantu. Congratulations guys. >> [applause] >> All right, next from Juarez Lincoln High School we got volleyball. Starting off with Miss Teresa that Daniel. All academic team volleyball. Breanna Marine all academic team volleyball. And first team all district Miss Kimberly Reina. Coach Zier and so
049is JL Perez representing Juarez Lincoln administration. Mr. Alvarez, we are turning over now to our district honors and post secondary honors for Palmview High Schools. Starting off with co-district newcomer of the year Thadeo Villarreal. >> [applause] >> First team offensive all state game player played quarterback on West team, Joseph Martinez. Second team guard, Valdemar Gonzalez. First team inside linebacker, Leonidas Chapa. >> [cheering] >> First team safety, Sebastian Garcia. Honorable mention outside receiver, Julio Guerra. >> [applause] >> Coach Requenez is here. Coach Basan is here. Congratulations boy on your all districts selections. >> [applause] >> Principal Leanne Herrera. >> Hello boss. >> [applause] [clears throat] >> Going to follow him up with our athletes and academic all athlete teams from Palmview volleyball. Starting off with outstanding libe- libero of the year and all academic team, Miss
050Jessica Arevalo. >> [applause] >> First team all district all academic team, Kalia Trevino. >> [cheering] >> Coach Basan, Coach Cardenas, and their principal, Ms. Leanne Herrera. Congratulations, ladies. >> [applause] >> All right, here we go. Last one sir for Palmview High School is boys and girls cross country. Um this team I'm about to mention is Rio Grande Valley team of the year for the cross country. Uh we have a good selection of runners here starting off with second team all district, Obed Balderas Belderano. >> [applause] >> First team all district, Madeline Farias. First team all district, third team all valley, uh Adamaris Chico. First team all district, first team all valley, Corina Robles. >> [applause] >> First team all district, first team all valley, Rio Grande Valley Cross Country Coaches Association Runner of the Year,
051and first team all region, all state, and state qualifier, Ms. Dolores Ramirez. >> Congratulations. >> I would like to also introduce Ms. Lea Loya, Yaritza Ibarra, as they make up the team for the Rio Grande Valley Coaches Association. This is the Valley's team of the year for girls cross country. Coach Bassan, congratulations. Coach Macias, and Principal Ms. Lea Nereida. >> [applause] >> And to close up the cross country team for the boys from Palmview High School, first team all district, Romeo Martinez. >> [screaming] [applause] >> First team all district, first team all valley, first team all region, and state qualifier, Asiel Davila. >> [applause] >> I don't have the watch. >> [applause] >> We got one more, right? Yes, sir. Okay, so I think we're back at 5.14 recognition of La Joya High School boys
052and girls boys and girls wrestling regional and state qualifiers. >> Yes, sir. Thank you. The sheet was covered behind my little foldable here. Yes, the regional qualifiers from La Joya High School. I have first introduce to you Shawn Ornelas, 120 lb class weight, fifth in district and alternate in regionals. Alejandro Vasquez, fourth in district, regional qualifier. Brandon Perez, first in district, regional qualifier. Jonathan Dominguez, first in district, regional qualifier. Isaac Segura, second in district, regional qualifier. Coach Victor Trevino and assistant coach Julio Dueñas. Principal Mr. Eduardo Flores and athletic coordinator Mr. Ruben Farias. Good job, gentlemen. Congratulations. >> [applause] >> Thank you, Coach Peña. Ladies and gentlemen, before I I go into agenda item number six, which is our calendar, um I wanted to take this opportunity for those that are viewing. Thank you for
053allowing us to set aside dates throughout the year so that we can acknowledge the fine men and women. As you can see, we have some of the top talent not just in this region, but around the state. So, I want again congratulate our young men and women. And of course, the coaches who spend, you know, hours and hours, you know, spending time with our children, whether it's during the week and on the weekends, and serving as counselors. I'm very grateful to all of you. So, again, I just wanted to acknowledge you for all the great work you're doing, and of course, our athletes for continuing to support and um to make us proud here at La Joya ISD. Dr. Sorenson, do you have anything you want to add before we go into our next agenda
054item? >> I will just quickly add that I also really want to thank the support team from central office. Um Dr. Zamora, thank you so much, right? Mr. Adame, thank you. Coach Pena, Coach Flores, thank you for your support with athletics. And Mr. Zamora, thank you so much for your help with UIL. Um it does take a huge effort to make all of this happen from a central office perspective. So, thank you so much for your leadership in these areas. Um sometimes you are behind the scenes, but without you, none of this happens. So, thank you all so much for your work and effort on behalf of the district. And lastly, thank you, board, for allowing me as the superintendent to create this space to recognize our young people and their families and our coaches.
055Um without your support of our programs, as we think about thriving students, it's incredibly important. So, thank you, board, for your continued support in these areas. >> Thank you, Dr. Sorenson. Um I'd be remiss if I didn't acknowledge two other ladies that have been very supportive and have always been there for us, Mighty and Elda. So, I want to thank both of you and I wanted to be on the record for acknowledging all the great work you do in making everything look so so seamless and without any issues. So, thank you for that. Uh to our camera crew, thank you. I see that you guys made sure that we all look good. So, I wanted to acknowledge all of you as well while we're here. Yes, round of applause for all of them. >> [applause]
056>> If not, Mighty will call me. So, anyway, I wanted Next item on the agenda um is our calendar. March 2026 is Texas History Month, Music in Our Schools Month, Women's History Month, National Nutrition Month, and National Procurement Month. March 11, 2026, Elementary Field Day in Coyote Coyote and Husky Cluster. March 12, 2026, Elementary Field Day, Lobo Cluster. March 14th, Pi Day. March 16th through the 20th, Spring Break. Central Administration will be closed and there will be no classes for our students. March 25th, uh regular board meeting. Members of the board, do you have anything that you would like to add before we close out for the evening? No? Yes, Dr. Sorenson, please. >> I just want to give a shout-out and encourage the community to come out tomorrow night. Tomorrow night, here we go.
057It's our Elementary Music Festival. Super excited to watch and be a part of the audience. The energy is always so outstanding and so fun. So, encourage everybody from the community to come out and see our elementary students shine. So, I'm super excited. >> Secretary Gomez, what is Pi Day? >> I what I would say it's pi like to eat, but I would be incorrect. >> You can ask Brenda. >> Brenda, I don't I know you don't have a mic, but can you Does anyone here on stage know what a pi day is? It's what? >> The 3.14 >> 314, so pi mathematically is 3.14. >> I should have known she would have known that. I should have known that. I should have known that. >> Brenda's like, you better get it right. >> Yeah, I
058should have known that. She would know. Ladies and gentlemen, seeing I'm going to again thank everyone for those that are viewing and of course those that were here in attendance for acknowledging our fine young men and women. Uh do we have um anything else that we want to bring to the board? If not, do I have a motion to adjourn tonight's meeting? >> Yes, I move to adjourn this meeting at 7:38 [snorts] p.m. >> Do I have a second? >> I second the motion. >> All in favor signify by saying I. >> I. >> All opposed, we have a majority, meeting is adjourned.