The Allen ISD Board of Trustees recently recognized students, staff, and departments at their board meeting held on January 20, 2026. Honorees included a state-champion robotics team, a high-achieving football program, a district department earning statewide distinction, student leaders from an elementary campus, and celebrations for School Board Recognition Month.
Allen High School Robotics Wins Third-Consecutive State Title
The Board recognized the Allen High School BEST Robotics Program for winning the UIL State Championship in the large school category at the December 2025 competition held at Fair Park. This marks the third consecutive state title for the team, which represents both Allen High School and the STEAM Center.
In addition to their state championship, the team earned the MathWorks Design Award, which recognizes excellence in engineering and design and includes a $1,000 prize for the program.
The team is led by Graham Gadd and Greg Burnham.
Allen Eagles Football Reaches State Semifinals
The Board recognized the Allen High School football team for advancing to the UIL 6A state semifinal game after an undefeated regular season and a district championship.
The team recorded playoff victories over Lewisville, Lake Highlands, Odessa Permian, and North Crowley. The 2025 postseason run marked the program’s best finish since 2018.
The program is led by Head Coach Lee Wiginton.
Coach Wiginton also reached a personal milestone this season by earning his 200th career head coaching victory.
Allen ISD Purchasing Department Earns State Award
The Board recognized the Allen ISD Purchasing Department for receiving the 2026 TASBO Award of Merit from the Texas Association of School Business Officials. The honor acknowledges the district’s strong accountability, efficiency, and professional standards in the acquisition of goods and services.
An independent review team of purchasing professionals selected Allen ISD for meeting or exceeding all program requirements. The award will be formally presented at the TASBO 2026 Annual Conference in February.
Team Members
Jennifer Graves
Tim Carter
Shannon Beck
Deann Riley
Amy Pedison
Tracy McGoldrick
Keith Taylor
Luis Rosado
Celebrating School Board Recognition Month
The Board was honored at their January meeting for School Board Recognition Month. Students across the district showed their appreciation for the Board’s leadership and service to the District.
This year’s theme, “Our Future is Public,” emphasizes the importance of public education and the role that Board members play in advocating for students.
Celebrations Included
A special student-produced video
Original artwork from students displayed in the Boardroom
Notes and cards of appreciation from across the district
A custom STEAM-created gift presented by STEAM Student Leadership sponsor Nathan Storts and student ambassadors
Special thanks to Boon House Leaders for kicking off the January Board meeting with the Pledge of Allegiance. Boon Elementary recently received the JOY Award from Destination Imagination for a toy and cake mix drive.
School Board Appreciation Video
View the video made by the Allen ISD Communications Interns for School Board Appreciation Month at https://youtu.be/DIcc1kKsWWw
Photo Gallery
View the photo gallery at https://flic.kr/s/aHBqjCHggf
