LONGVIEW, Texas — Longview ISD students return to campus on Monday morning, but ahead of the big day, administrators and staff came together to celebrate last year's achievements and get energized for the 2024-25 school year.
The annual convocation Friday morning at the Longview High School Coliseum featured celebrations, cheerleaders, band performances, the LHS Viewettes and even teachers completing an inflatable obstacle course for Whataburger gift cards.
"We had just a lot of different activities, and it was so exciting and electrifying," new Longview ISD Superintendent Dr. Marla Sheppard said.
Sheppard said the district celebrated teachers who received bonuses based on their students' achievement and eight campuses for their A ratings with the Texas Education Agency.
"It was magical, energetic, everything that you can imagine. It was wonderful. We had a wonderful time," Sheppard said. "We celebrated being back. And then, while I was able to talk to the staff today and issued a challenge to them, but it was a great day."
Sheppard said that over 100 teachers received additional money based on student achievement from last school year. The eight LISD campus that received an "A" accountability rating from the TEA will be getting an ice cream party with all the fixings.
This year's theme is "Embracing the All," which means to serve all kids every day to help them be successful, Sheppard said.
Christy Scott, principal at Hudson PEP Elementary, said the teachers are pumped and ready for Monday after hearing Sheppard's message that was centered around that theme.
"It was very encouraging, and it just reignited the passion within you know me, but also within my staff, just to make sure that we're doing what's best for all kids," Scott said.
Scott is also celebrating her first year as principal at Hudson PEP as she was previously principal at Johnston-McQueen Elementary. Hudson PEP, which has a little over 500 first through fifth graders, was among those campuses that received an "A" rating. Scott said her staff intends to continue that trend of excellence.
"Just ensure that we are continuing to be the best and continuing to provide a place for our students where they feel loved, safe and valued. One of our goals is to just continue that feeling that when you walk into our building, you know that we are there for kids and they're our purpose and our driving passion," Scott said.
On Monday morning, Scott and her staff will be on campus cheering the students on for their first day of school. There will be opportunities for parents to take photos with their kids while honoring Hudson PEP's theme of "Dream Big."
Before the big day, Scott said she is praying for the teachers and students and encouraging the Hudson staff to be prepared.
"Really the first week is just about building relationships, connecting with kids and helping them realize that we are there for them and that we are excited for a new year," Scott said.
After becoming superintendent over the summer, Sheppard added she could not be more excited to start the year.
"I think our staff is energized. I'm super energized. In 30 years, each year, the night before school starts, I'm tossing, turning and cannot sleep based on the excitement that I have for the first day of school, and this year will be no different," she said. "I'm excited. Our staff is excited, and we're just ready to welcome our Lobos in the fall."