Cougar Excellence Awards for March

Crosby, TX (March 17, 2025) - The Crosby ISD Board of Trustees awarded more than a dozen students, teachers, staff, and community members "Cougar Excellence" awards for February 2025. These awards celebrate those who show the values we cherish in Crosby: hard work, a sense of purpose, and achievement.

 

STUDENTS OF THE MONTH

From Crosby Kindergarten Center,  Aiden McMahan Vazquez. Prinicpal Minor says Aiden is a good helper when it is time to clean up.  He is becoming more independent around the classroom by putting away all of his materials and helping others.  He is a good friend by helping the smaller students get to the table for a snack, helping them when they have a big mess to pick up and holding their hand when it's time to get in line.  Aiden is well on his way to being a Cougar leader!

From Newport Elementary, Elijah Pecina. Principal Price says Elijah is hands down one of the happiest students I know. He walks through the building every day brightening the halls with his smile and his cheerful personality. If ever anyone is having a bad day, they just need to visit his classroom. His gentle spirit can brighten anyone's day. Elijah is also a very hard worker. He tackles every assignment with an unmatched excitement that keeps his teachers and classmates on their toes.  Elijah is also known for being an apple juice connoisseur, he LOVES apple juice! If ever in need of a recommendation, Elijah's the man! Newport is extremely blessed to have Mr. Pecina.

From Barrett Elementary, Alice Alberto. Principal Ornelas says Alice is a shining star in our bilingual dual-language classroom, embodying excellence in everything she does. As a first-grade student, she arrives each day with enthusiasm, immediately settling in and diving into her work with focus and determination. Her quiet confidence and unwavering respect for both peers and teachers set her apart as a role model. Though soft-spoken, Alice’s voice shines in class discussions, where she eagerly participates and shares her thoughts. Her dedication to learning is truly inspiring—she consistently puts forth her best effort, reaching new milestones in reading and math. Beyond academics, Alice is a natural leader, always ready to lend a helping hand and support her classmates with kindness and teamwork.

From Crosby Elementary, Kassie Celestine. Principal Kratky-Fox says our Cougar Excellence Award recipient for Crosby Elementary School! As a 4th grader, she exemplifies leadership, kindness, and a strong work ethic in everything she does. She is caring, patient, and always willing to lend a helping hand to both her classmates and teachers. Her creativity and thoughtfulness shine through in her work, and her natural leadership skills make her a role model for others. In fact, if all her teachers were absent at the same time, there is no doubt she could step in and run the classroom with ease! We are so proud of her dedication, positivity, and the outstanding example she sets for our school.

From Drew Elementary, 2nd grader Joseph Howard. Principal Hall says Joseph is a sweet and happy boy who brightens our campus with his kindness and enthusiasm. He loves showing appreciation for his teachers and friends, always spreading joy wherever he goes. Joseph is a dedicated hard worker who gives his best effort with a positive attitude every day. He is a fantastic rule follower and brings great energy to the classroom, making learning fun! We have seen tremendous growth in him, especially in how he communicates with his teachers and peers. And if there’s music playing, you can bet Joseph is moving and grooving—especially when Principal Hall comes through with her boom box at arrival and dismissal! Way to go, Joseph! We are so proud of you!

From Crosby Middle School, 8^th grader Emely Hernández. Principal Lozano sys Emely is the epitome of excellence at Crosby Middle School! She is always kind and respectful and goes above and beyond to help others. She demonstrates a strong work ethic, responsibility, and leadership in and out of the classroom. Emely’s dedication to learning and her willingness to support those around her make her an invaluable part of our school community. Teachers have mentioned they will miss her so much when she moves on to high school, but they have no doubt she will continue to achieve greatness. Congratulations, Emely—We are so proud of you!

From Crosby High School, sophomore Eduardo Palomo. Crosby High School proudly recognizes Eduardo Palomo as the latest Cougar Excellence Award recipient! Eduardo, a dedicated and talented member of the CHS Choir, has achieved an incredible milestone by advancing to State in Solo and Ensemble just weeks after he was chosen as a TMEA All-state performer. This will be his second trip to state this school year! Eduardo earned this prestigious honor through a rigorous District, Region, and Area selection process, ultimately securing a place as a TMEA All-State performer. Eduardo’s commitment to excellence and passion for music have set him apart, and we are thrilled to celebrate his success. Congratulations, Eduardo, on this outstanding achievement! Your hard work and dedication continue to make CHS proud!

TEACHERS OF THE MONTH

 

From Crosby Kindergarten Center, Ms. Ana Hartley. Principal Minor says Ms. Hartley has been recognized as the Cougar Excellence Teacher of the Month for CKC due to her remarkable quick actions during a recent medical emergency. Her swift and composed response was instrumental in managing the situation, with the paramedics noting that she very well may have saved a life that day. Going above and beyond the call of duty, Ms. Hartley exemplifies the qualities of a true leader and mentor on campus. Her energetic and positive attitude inspires both students and staff, making her an invaluable member of the school community.

From Newport Elementary, Ms. Dawn Gorski. Principal Price says Ms. Gorski is a brilliant fourth-grade Reading teacher who doesn't just think outside of the box, she thrives there. Mrs. Gorski has a gift for drawing out her students' creativity and encouraging them to express themselves in ways they never imagined. Her students produce projects, books, and poems that they share with each other and even younger students in other grade levels, encouraging them to think and create as well. Her enthusiasm extends beyond the classroom, as one of the sponsors of the N.E.S Press, the student-led newspaper. Mrs. Gorski is helping cultivate the next generation of journalists and photographers, and we at Newport are simply honored to see her shine.

From Barrett Elementary, Ms. Josephina Chavez. Principal Ornelas says Ms. Chavez is an exceptional bilingual educator who has brought passion, dedication, and excellence to our team from day one. Her unwavering commitment to her students is evident in everything she does, as she tirelessly works to create an engaging and supportive learning environment where every child can thrive. Her dedication goes beyond the school day—you’ll often find Ms. Chavez staying late, perfecting lessons and preparing materials to ensure her students receive the best possible instruction. The impact of her hard work is undeniable, as her students have shown remarkable growth this year. She empowers them to set their own goals, track their progress, and take ownership of their learning, instilling a lifelong love for education. Ms. Chavez is truly a game changer in the lives of her students, laying a strong foundation for their future success. We are incredibly fortunate to have her as part of our team, inspiring and shaping the next generation of Cougars!
 

From Crosby Elementary, Ms. Amy Graham. As a 3rd grade ELAR teacher, she is deeply committed to student success, carefully tracking data and designing targeted lessons to meet the specific needs of each student. Principal Kratky-Fox says she builds strong, meaningful relationships with her students, creating a classroom environment where they feel supported and motivated to grow. As the Team Lead for 3rd grade, she shares her expertise and content knowledge, playing a key role in planning and collaboration with her team. In addition to her dedication in the classroom, she also serves as the Run Club sponsor, completing the We Are Houston 5k in January, she encourages students to stay active and build confidence. Her hard work, leadership, and passion for teaching make her an invaluable part of our school community!

From Drew Elementary, Mr. Nicholas Lohman. Principal Hall says Mr. Lohman is truly deserving of the Teacher of the Month award. As one of our dedicated interventionists, he does more than just help close academic gaps—he goes above and beyond to ensure all students feel valued and supported. Beyond his role in the classroom, Mr. Lohman also leads our robotics club, an exciting program sponsored by the amazing Crosby Education Foundation. Through his guidance, students not only build technical skills but also grow in confidence and teamwork. His commitment to making every student feel seen and heard is what makes him a cornerstone of our Drew community, and his positive impact is felt by all who have the privilege of working with him.

From Crosby Middle School, Ms. Leigh Ann McComb. Principal Lozano says Ms. McComb is an incredible CTE teacher and a dedicated leader of our National Junior Honor Society. Through her guidance, she has cultivated a group of young leaders who exemplify empathy, kindness, and a strong work ethic. Her classroom is a model of structure and high expectations, where every student is encouraged to excel. Her commitment to both her students and our school community is truly inspiring. Thank you, Mrs. McComb, for all you do—Crosby Middle School is grateful to have you!

From Crosby High School, Ms. Jennae Fontenot. As a SPED teacher at Crosby High School, Jennae is the definition of dedication and positivity. Principal Hadnot says she is always willing to lend a hand, stays on top of her paperwork, and never complains—approaching every challenge with a self-starter mentality. Jennae actively seeks out ways to support students and colleagues, never hesitating to go the extra mile to ensure students’ emotional well-being. Her caring nature and upbeat personality brightens every room she enters, making a lasting impact on those around her. Thank you, Jennae, for your unwavering commitment to our students and staff!

PARAPROFESSIONALS OF THE MONTH

From Crosby Kindergarten Center, Ms. Yadira Moctezuma. Ms. Moctezuma has been named Crosby Kindergarten's Paraprofessional of the Month for her exceptional dedication and unwavering support to the students and staff. This school year, she stepped into two new teachers' classrooms, providing crucial assistance in helping get their classes up and running smoothly. Principal Minor says her patience, love, and passion for working with special education students truly set her apart. Always willing to volunteer, Ms. Moctezuma brings the most creative ideas when collaborating with teams, enriching the learning experience for all. Her perseverance in her education is inspiring, and she is on track to soon graduate college and become a certified special education teacher in Crosby, a testament to her commitment to making a lasting impact.

From Newport Elementary, Ms. Veronica Sanchez. Principal Price says Ms. Sanchez is a joy to work with. She is a wonderful balance of hard and dedication paired with fun and humor. Her personality makes the front office a welcoming environment, but her diligence helps to make the building the organized machine that it is. Mrs. Sanchez is dependable and proactive; she takes care of tasks before anyone even needs to ask—she just gets it done. Veronica’s hard work and commitment make her an invaluable part of the Newport Elementary family and we are blessed to have her.

From Barrett Elementary, Ms. Desiree Cantu. Principal Ornelas says Ms. Cantu is a truly deserving recipient of our Paraprofessional Cougar Excellence recognition. A dedicated and dependable team player, she consistently goes above and beyond to support both students and staff at Barrett Elementary. With tireless dedication, Ms. Cantu works closely with our special education students, providing the individualized support they need to thrive in the classroom. Her gentle demeanor, patience, and unwavering commitment create a nurturing environment where students feel empowered to succeed. Every day, she gives her absolute best, embodying the excellence and dedication that make BES an incredible place to learn and grow. We are grateful for her hard work, passion, and commitment to our school community!

From Crosby Elementary, Ms. Monique Nafegar. Principal Kratky-Fox says she is a dedicated and adaptable professional who provides outstanding in-class support to students with accommodations, ensuring they have the tools they need to succeed. She makes connections with students and builds long-lasting relationships with students because they can trust her, and they can depend on her. Beyond her daily responsibilities, she takes the time to mentor fellow paraprofessionals, offering guidance and encouragement to her peers. She goes above and beyond by assisting with extra duty assignments on both the campus and district levels and even volunteers her time with after school activities like Odyssey of the Mind. Her "Give it to me, I can do it" attitude and ability to adapt to change with positivity make her an invaluable asset to CES. We are truly grateful for her dependable work ethic, dedication, and  commitment to our students and staff!

From Drew Elementary, Ms. Ana Zuniga. Principal Hall says Ms. Zuniga is truly deserving of Teacher of the Month for her quiet yet impactful presence in our school community. She consistently goes above and beyond by stepping into classrooms to support students with diverse needs, offering a helping hand wherever it’s needed. Her kindness and dedication shine through in her willingness to assist both students and colleagues, always with a warm smile. Additionally, Ms. Zuniga’s thoughtful gestures, like leaving treats in the front for everyone to enjoy, add an extra layer of positivity to our day. Her support and caring nature make her a valued member of our team, and we are grateful to have her with us!

From Crosby Middle School, Ms. Berlinsia Gallentine. Principal Lozano says Ms. Gallentine is a true asset to our Crosby Middle family! She shows up daily with a smile, a positive attitude, and a heart for putting students first. Her flexibility and willingness to go the extra mile ensure that every student receives the support they need to succeed. Whether adapting to last-minute changes or providing daily encouragement, she impacts our students and staff meaningfully. We are incredibly grateful for her dedication and commitment to our school community!

From Crosby High School, Ms. Amber Rocha. Principal Hadnot says she is an incredible asset to Crosby High School, working diligently behind the scenes to ensure our attendance records are accurate and organized. She is dedicated, hardworking, and always focused on the task at hand. While she may be quiet, her impact is loud and clear—when faced with a challenge, she finds a solution and gets the job done. We appreciate her commitment and the essential role she plays in keeping our school running smoothly. Thank you, Amber, for all that you do!

BUSINESS PARTNERS OF THE MONTH

 

Our Business Partners of the Month for March are: Tatum MacNaughton and Charlene Findley from Boom Real Estate. A few weeks ago, they spent the afternoon on the campus of Crosby Middle School sharing their business expertise with students. They met with Principal Lozano.

 

Then In Ms. Creer’s class, they talked about real estate and professionalism in Digital media using canva. Students designed their own digital ads for an Open House. They visited two of Ms. Eagleton’s CTE business classes, where they talked about key concepts for interview skills and having emotional intelligence and how to control your emotions in a professional working environment. Finally, after school they visited with Ms. McComb and the National Junior Honor Society students. They discussed the importance of promoting your business but also how important community service is. That businesses generate business by investing in the communities they call home.

 

 

Thank you, Boom Real Estate, Ms. MacNaughton, and Ms. Findley, for supporting our students in so many ways.

 

ALUMNI OF THE MONTH - "COUGARS FOR LIFE"
Jadyn Kessler (Brown), Crosby High School Class of 2020

 

 

 

 

 

Finally, we want to recognize our Alumni of the Month or Cougar for Life. She’s one of the COVID kids who graduated during the pandemic. She didn’t know exactly what she wanted to do, but as you’re about to see, she found her calling in the military and in health science classes at Crosby High School. Watch her story here. Jadyn is serving at Fort Campbell, Kentucky. Her mom - Ms. Andrea Dodson, registrar at Crosby Middle School – accepted the honor on her behalf. Ms. Thompson also attended the Board of Trustees meeting to show her support for her former student as well.

 

 

 

 

SPONSORS

 

---

Thank you to each of the sponsors for the Cougar Excellence Awards. Each month, HEB generously donates a $25 gift card to our students of the month. Chick-fil-A of Crosby also donates a prize pack for our students, teachers and paraprofessional of the month.  Also, each student of the month will leave here tonight with one of these yard signs! We want our entire community and your neighbors to know the great work your students are doing in our District. We thank Marco’s Pizza and local franchise operator, Mr. Clarence Howell, for sponsoring these yard signs.