A Memorable School Year

Nine months ago, we were preparing to open our doors to students and staff. Instead, we opened them to first responders, displaced flood victims, volunteers and even the National Guard.

Hurricane Harvey certainly dealt us an unexpected blow at the beginning of the 2017-2018 school year, but as usual, we all came together and put Opportunity for All into action. Many heroes of the classroom, like Duryea Elementary School Principal Kenneth Henry, turned into heroes of Harvey.

The district showed its resilience no matter the obstacle or weather event (Mother Nature even threw a little freeze at us!). We came together, we rebuilt, we grew stronger as a result.

Our students never slowed down, earning incredible accomplishments in the classroom, concert halls and playing fields. While fine arts students gave gold performances…

The Cypress Falls HS honor choir performs as a TMEA Honor Choir at the state convention on Feb. 15. 

…UIL state champions tested the strength of gold medals!

Cy-Fair HS football players celebrate winning the state title at AT&T Stadium Dec. 23. 

Cypress Creek HS senior Samantha Billings won first place in feature writing at the UIL Academic State Meet May 4-5.

One of the stabilizing forces for CFISD this year was an award-winning school board, whose members are always seeking the best for our students, staff and taxpayers. It continues to be a pleasure to work with this group.

Our amazing Trustees celebrated the Bobcats’ state football title at the January 2018 Board meeting. 

While I don’t know what challenges await us in 2018-2019, I know that in November you will have the opportunity to select members of our own legislative body as well as state leaders who will determine the future of public education. I encourage you to become engaged. Keep tabs on our Community Leadership Committee. Vote for candidates who support universal public education!

Despite all the challenges the community has experienced, I encourage everyone to finish strong as we head toward the summer—then enjoy time with family, be safe and relax! We still have a lot to cheer about in this district, including 12 high school graduation ceremonies that are currently in progress! 

As 8,000 seniors walk the stage at the Berry Center, a school year that began with devastation will end with hope for a brighter future. That’s what I call #CFISDspirit.

~ Mark Henry, Ed.D.