The Wildkat Word: Nov and Dec 2025

As we reflect on the first few months of the school year, I’m filled with gratitude for the many ways our community has come together. From the excitement of our Fall Safety Fair, where families and first responders connected in meaningful ways, to the launch of our Ambassador Academy, which brings parents and community members inside the district to learn more about our schools, these events highlight the heart and partnership that make Willis ISD so special.

Looking ahead, I hope you’ll join us for our upcoming Kats and Coffee: Chats with District Leadership, a new opportunity to share ideas, ask questions, and stay connected as we continue building a strong future for our students.

As we approach the holiday season, I’m reminded how fortunate we are to be part of such a caring, engaged community. Thank you for your continued support and for making Willis ISD a place where students, staff, and families truly thrive together.

One Team. One Purpose.

November 8-9 (9 AM) - Charles Traylor Memorial Prospect Show @ Willis Ag Arena

November 11 (9:55-10:30 AM) - Community Veterans Day Program @ Willis High School

November 12 (5:30 PM) - November Board Meeting @ SHJ Admin

November 18 (7 AM) - Kats & Coffee: Conversations with District Leadership @ Black Rock Coffee

November 18 (9 AM) - SPED Department Virtual Coffee & Chat @ Google Meet

November 19 (5 PM) - Learning Together: Inside Willis ISD Classrooms @ Willis High School CTE LGI

November 21 (10 AM-12 PM) - Ambassador Academy @ Cannan Elementary

November 21 (12:30-1:50 PM) - Kats & Coffee: Conversations with District Leadership @ Willis Supermarket

November 24-28 - Thanksgiving Break

December 1 (5 PM) - Learning Together: Inside Willis ISD Classrooms @ Brabham Middle School

December 5 (5 PM) - Christmas in the Barn @ Willis High School CTE

December 6 (9 AM-2 PM) - Car & Bike Show and Toy Drive @ Willis High School CTE

December 8 (5 PM) - Learning Together: Inside Willis ISD Classrooms @ Calfee Middle School

December 9 (6:30 PM) - Floral Design Night @ Willis High School CTE

December 10 (4 PM) - Learning Together: Inside Willis ISD Classrooms @ SHJ Admin

December 10 (5:30 PM) - December Board Meeting @ SHJ Admin

December 12 (6 PM) - WHS Advanced Academics Night @ PAC

December 17 (5 PM) - Willis ISD SPED Department December Parent Resource Meeting @ Willis High School CTE

December 19 - Early Release

December 22-January 2 - Winter Break

January 5-6 - Staff Development Day/Student Holiday

• Veterans Day Celebration - Join Willis ISD as we come together to honor the bravery and sacrifice of our nation’s veterans at a special Veterans Day Celebration. This heartfelt program will feature student tributes, patriotic performances, and a community gathering dedicated to showing gratitude for those who have served.
  
  The celebration will take place on Tuesday, November 11, from 9:55–10:30 AM at Willis High School. Veterans and community members need to bring a photo ID and check in at the front of the school before the program begins in the gym.
  
  We invite all community veterans and guests to join us for this meaningful morning of remembrance, respect, and Wildkat pride.

• Ambassador Academy: At this special event, community members will have the opportunity to join Willis ISD’s Ambassador Academy to connect with district leaders, tour programs that fuel student success, and see firsthand how our schools and community work together to build brighter futures for students. Open to anyone interested in learning more about Willis ISD, the Academy is designed to be a welcoming and informative experience for those looking to get involved.
  
  

  The session will take place on Friday, November 21, from 10 AM–12 PM at Cannan Elementary, 7639 County Line Rd., Willis, TX 77378.
  
  

  Space is limited and spots fill fast. Please RSVP to Michelle Bischof at mbischof@willisisd.org.

• Christmas at the Barn: At this family-friendly event, elementary-age students are invited to celebrate the season with candy, Santa, games, a petting zoo, and more. It’s a festive way to bring our community together and share the joy of the holidays while supporting Wildkat families.
  
  The event will take place on Friday, December 5, from 5–6:30 PM at the Willis High School CTE (please enter through the front door).
  
  In lieu of an RSVP, please bring an unwrapped toy benefiting the Wildkat Resource Center. We look forward to a cheerful evening of fun and community spirit!

• Floral Design Night – At this special hands-on workshop, participants will have the opportunity to create their own festive floral arrangement just in time for the holidays. No experience is needed - just bring your creativity and holiday spirit!
  
  

  The event will take place on Tuesday, December 9, from 6:30–8:30 PM at the Willis High School CTE, 40 FM 830, Willis, TX 77378.
  
  

  Register: https://tinyurl.com/muxfbnaf

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It was a night to remember at Yates Stadium as the stands overflowed with purple pride for Homecoming 2025! Although the Wildkats came up short against College Park, the sold-out stadium was bursting with energy, excitement, and unwavering school spirit.

During halftime, the crowd roared with applause as Guy Barker and Victoria Medina were crowned Homecoming King and Queen, representing the very best of Wildkat Nation. Their leadership, school pride, and positive example made the celebration truly special.

From the spirited performances to the packed stands and community support, Homecoming 2025 was a powerful reminder that the scoreboard doesn’t always tell the story: Wildkat spirit ALWAYS wins.

It’s been a remarkable season for the Willis High School Wildkat Band and Guard, whose hard work, heart, and harmony have embodied the true Wildkat spirit.

The band earned three superior ratings at the UIL Region 9 Marching Contest, qualifying to advance to the UIL Area F Marching Competition at Woodforest Bank Stadium. There, they delivered another outstanding performance, showcasing the months of dedication, discipline, and teamwork that had been invested.

Congratulations to the Wildkat Band on a season defined by excellence on the field and unity in the stands, the perfect harmony of talent and teamwork that makes Wildkat Nation proud!

The band will finish their season with a final performance at the U.S. Bands Southeastern Contest in Clear Creek ISD, marking the end of a year filled with growth, unity, and pride.

In October, a select group of 7th-grade students from Brabham Middle School, Calfee Middle School, and Lynn Lucas Middle School had the exciting opportunity to travel to Austin to tour the Texas State Capitol and meet with Representative Will Metcalf.

During their visit, students explored the historic chambers, learned about the legislative process, and gained a deeper understanding of how state government works. The experience offered an inspiring glimpse into civic leadership and the importance of active participation in government.

This hands-on learning trip brought classroom lessons to life and gave students a new appreciation for how decisions made at the Capitol impact their communities.

Willis ISD’s inaugural Fall Safety Fair was a huge success, bringing families, students, and community partners together for an evening of fun, learning, and connection!

The event featured a wide range of safety activities, interactive booths, and a show-stopping Emergency Vehicle Touch-a-Truck, where attendees got an up-close look at the vehicles and tools used by local emergency responders. Children and adults alike enjoyed exploring fire trucks, command vehicles, and rescue boats while learning about the vital roles these heroes play in keeping our community safe.

A heartfelt thank-you goes out to all who made the event possible, including our Montgomery County Office of Emergency Management Command Truck, Fire Marshal’s Bomb Squad, Emergency Service District 1 Firetruck, Montgomery County Hospital District Ambulance, Precinct 1 Constable’s Office Rescue Boat, Montgomery County Sheriff’s Office Airboat, SWAT, and Drone teams, and the Willis Police Department.

The evening was filled with excitement, gratitude, and Wildkat pride; a perfect reminder that safety and community go hand in hand in Willis ISD.

Last month, all Willis ISD fifth graders and their teachers enjoyed a memorable day at The Cynthia Woods Mitchell Pavilion, where they attended a live performance by the Houston Symphony as part of the venue’s annual Fine Arts Education Day.

For many students, this was their first time hearing a professional orchestra, an experience that sparked excitement, curiosity, and a new appreciation for the arts. As the music filled the pavilion, students listened with wide eyes and open minds, connecting what they’ve learned in class to the beauty and emotion of live performance.

This inspiring field trip highlighted the importance of fine arts in education and gave students a firsthand look at how creativity and expression can unite and inspire a community. It was truly a day to remember, one that struck a perfect chord of learning and wonder!

Willis ISD celebrated the official dedication of Homer C. Calfee Middle School on October 26, honoring the life and legacy of the beloved educator for whom the campus is named.

Led by Principal Dr. Gerald Schattle, the ceremony featured student performances and remarks from district leaders and the Calfee family. During the event, Kristin Calfee Bybee presented the school’s original White Oak School bell to symbolize the connection between the district’s history and its future.

Board President Kyle Hoegemeyer and Superintendent Dr. Kimberley James both reflected on the importance of community, vision, and shared purpose in building a school that will inspire learning for years to come.

The celebration marked not just the opening of a new campus, but the beginning of a new chapter for the entire Calfee Middle School family.

Fifth-grade students at A.R. Turner Elementary wowed younger students with their force and motion carnival games, a fun-filled way to explore the science of how things move.

Throughout the event, fifth graders demonstrated their understanding of physics by designing creative, carnival-style games that showcased concepts such as gravity, friction, and kinetic energy. Younger students were invited to “step right up” and test the games, learning how science influences movement in a fun, interactive way.

The carnival not only highlighted the students’ knowledge of force and motion but also encouraged collaboration, creativity, and communication as they explained the “why” behind each game.

Congratulations to the Brabham Middle School Counseling Team, Dyann Wilson and Amber McDuffie, for earning the Lone Star Bronze Award from the Lone Star State School Counselor Association (LSSSCA).

This statewide recognition honors exemplary school counseling programs that are data-driven, goal-focused, and aligned with the American School Counselor Association (ASCA) National Model. The award highlights Brabham’s commitment to supporting every student through comprehensive guidance, academic planning, and social-emotional development.

Through their dedication and student-centered approach, Ms. Wilson and Ms. McDuffie exemplify the spirit of excellence that defines Willis ISD’s counseling programs. Congratulations to these outstanding Wildkats for leading with heart and purpose!

Students in the Calfee Middle School Band were treated to a special musical experience when the Kainos Quartet from Sam Houston State University visited campus to perform and connect with young musicians.

The college musicians shared their passion for music and spoke about their journey in band, inspiring Calfee students to keep developing their own musical skills and creativity. The performance offered a unique opportunity for students to see how dedication and teamwork in music can open doors to new experiences and lifelong learning.

A special thank-you goes to Mrs. Villareal and Ms. Pineiro for organizing this visit and bringing such talented role models to Calfee. Their efforts continue to foster a love of music and a spirit of excellence among our Wildkat musicians!

Students and families at Cannan Elementary enjoyed an evening of discovery and fun during Spooky Science Night.

The event featured interactive science games, exciting experiments, and plenty of festive costumes as students explored the “spooky” side of science. From bubbling potions to glowing reactions, the night brought learning to life in a creative and engaging way.

A special thank-you goes to Willis Kroger for donating all the candy that helped make the event such a success. Cannan’s Spooky Science Night was a perfect blend of science and celebration!

October was a month of discovery at C.C. Hardy Elementary, where curiosity, creativity, and joy filled every classroom. From math challenges to science experiments, students learned by doing, proving that when learning is fun, understanding grows deeper.

In Mr. Muñoz’s class, math was anything but ordinary; students reviewed long division through a lively snowball fight game that had everyone engaged and eager to solve problems. Meanwhile, Ms. Youngblood’s scientists explored how the amount of force impacts the distance a car travels, using real experiments to connect classroom concepts to the world around them. In Ms. Wiedner’s class, young learners investigated states of matter by conducting hands-on experiments to better understand the differences between solids, liquids, and gases.

Through lessons like these, C.C. Hardy teachers are turning curiosity into confidence, showing that when students have fun learning, the possibilities are endless!

Students at Lagway Elementary brought science to life through an exciting hands-on lesson exploring how energy moves through a system.

From the Sun’s light to the plants that absorb it and the animals that depend on them, students discovered the incredible connections that keep our world in motion. Through engaging experiments, thoughtful discussions, and plenty of curiosity, young scientists examined how energy transfers and transforms in nature.

Lagway teachers are helping students think like scientists; observing, questioning, and discovering how energy powers the world around them.

Eighth-grade students at Lynn Lucas Middle School are on a mission to master their learning!

During their “Tour of Knowledge,” RLA scholars reviewed key concepts and skills in preparation for their End-of-Unit assessment, but this wasn’t an ordinary review.

Students rotated through stations filled with interactive tasks designed to reinforce comprehension, grammar, and writing strategies in a fun, fast-paced format. Each stop on the “tour” challenged them to think critically, collaborate with their classmates, and apply what they had learned in creative ways.

The energy and focus in the classroom reflected the Lynx spirit of determination and teamwork. Activities like these demonstrate how teachers are transforming preparation into inspiration, helping students build confidence and take pride in their academic progress.

Way to go, Lucas Lynx, for showing that learning is always an adventure!

Second-grade students in Ms. Gross’s class are diving deep into math learning, getting right to the “heart of the matter!”

Through a guided math concept development lesson, students explored new strategies to strengthen their understanding of key math concepts. They then extended their learning through IXL, applying their skills in interactive practice sessions designed to reinforce mastery.

By combining direct instruction with engaging, hands-on technology, Ms. Gross is helping her students build both confidence and comprehension, proving that math success starts with a strong foundation and a curious mind.

It was a night full of fun, creativity, and community spirit at Parmley Elementary’s first-ever Trunk-or-Treat!

Families filled the parking lot to enjoy festive decorations, candy-filled trunks, and plenty of smiles. The event, organized by the Parmley PTO, brought together students, families, and staff for an evening of Halloween fun and family connection.

A special thank-you goes to the Lynn Lucas Middle School cheerleaders and NJHS members, who volunteered their time to help pass out candy and keep the excitement going all evening. Events like these showcase the heart of the Wildkat community, where family engagement and student joy go hand in hand!

It was a festive month of learning and laughter in Mrs. Oliver’s ECSE class at Roark Early Education Center as students brought the beloved story of Spookley the Square Pumpkin to life!

To accompany their lesson, students participated in a hands-on, pumpkin-themed activity that blended storytelling with sensory exploration and social-emotional learning. As they worked together, they discovered the heartwarming message behind Spookley’s story; the importance of kindness, inclusion, and celebrating what makes each of us unique.

The activity also offered a delicious twist, as students enjoyed a yummy treat while connecting what they learned to real-world experiences. Through interactive lessons like these, Roark teachers continue to make learning meaningful, memorable, and full of joy, helping every young Wildkat grow both academically and emotionally.

At Stubblefield Academy, students are connecting the past to the present in a creative cross-curricular project that blends English and Social Studies.

After learning about historical figures and authors who wrote with quills and ink, students had the chance to step back in time by practicing the same art themselves. Each student crafted a “loyalty letter”, a heartfelt message to someone they care about, using quills to experience firsthand what writing felt like centuries ago.

The project encouraged students to explore history through empathy and creativity while building their writing skills in a meaningful way. By combining history, language, and emotion, Stubblefield teachers are showing that learning can truly make a lasting impression; one stroke of the quill at a time.

Service and spirit go hand in hand at Willis High School!

Members of the Willis High School Cheer Team and the Sweethearts Dance and Drill Team took time out of their busy schedules to visit the Montgomery County Food Bank, where they made donations and helped support families in need across the community.

The visit was more than just a service project; it was a powerful example of compassion and leadership in action. By giving back, these students demonstrated the heart of Wildkat Nation: working together to make a difference and showing that true school spirit extends beyond the sidelines.

We’re proud of these Wildkats for representing Willis ISD with kindness, generosity, and pride, both on and off the field!

The Board of Trustees of the Willis Independent School District met in a Regular Board Meeting on October 8, 2025 at 5:30 PM at the Sharon Hill Jennette Administration Building in the Willis ISD Boardroom. Details of the items discussed can be found at the link below.

The next meeting will be held on November 12, 2025, at 5:30 PM.

At Willis ISD, we want to make it easy for families, staff, and community members to connect with the right person for their needs. Our Straight to the Source guide lists key departments and contacts across the district, from Curriculum and Child Nutrition to Transportation and Technology.

Save it. Print it. Keep it handy for whenever you need assistance!

In this issue, we’re celebrating the incredible work and recognition of our Willis ISD counselors, who recently shined at the Lone Star State School Counselor Association Annual Conference, bringing home professional honors and new strategies to strengthen student success.

We’re also spotlighting November’s focus on Career Development and Generation Texas Month, sharing how our district is preparing students for bright futures through our new Career Development Framework.

Finally, this month’s wellness spotlight explores the impact of technology on children and teens, offering helpful articles, parental control guides, and trusted recommendations on managing screen time and online safety. You’ll also find curated book and podcast suggestions, tech-use planners, and free on-demand parenting courses designed to support family wellness in the digital age.

Together, we’re building strong futures: one healthy mind, one confident student, and one connected family at a time.

The flu can spread quickly among children and often comes on suddenly with fever, cough, sore throat, body aches, or fatigue. Parents can help protect their families by encouraging good hygiene, keeping children home when sick, and knowing when to seek medical care.

Whether you’re a proud member of the Wildkat community or a future Willis family, we want YOU to stay in the loop!

Join our Wildkat Network, a community email list for anyone interested in staying informed and engaged, even if they do not currently have a student enrolled in the district. From inspiring student success stories to important district-wide events, this is your all-access pass to the heart of Wildkat Nation.

Have questions or want to opt-out later? No worries - just send an email to kbrocato@willisisd.org.

We’re proud of our schools, students, and community, and we can’t wait to share it all with you!

My Ride K-12 gives you instant access to your child’s bus route, pickup location, and schedule. It also enables the district to send real-time notifications about delays, changes, or other important updates. If your student rides the bus, this app is ESSENTIAL; it’s the primary way our transportation team communicates with families.

*Please note that this year, each student will be given a student ID to scan when boarding and exiting the bus.

To download the app: Visit the App Store or Google Play Store, type in "My Ride K-12" and select "Install/Download/Get," or click the links below.

In Willis ISD, safety is our number one priority, and we will not tolerate behavior that threatens the safety and well-being of our students and staff.

Students and parents can utilize the district’s anonymous alerts system to report any suspicious or known activity. K12 Anonymous Alert allows for anonymous reporting (or you can add your information, and we can reply). It also sends messages to school and district administrators 24 hours a day directly on our phones. The alert system can be accessed on the Willis ISD mobile app or on the website linked below!

Education is a team effort. When students, parents, teachers, and staff work together, we set the stage for a successful year.

Please take time to review the Student Handbook, Code of Conduct, and Dress Code with your student. These resources provide clear expectations, build consistency, and help ensure that every Wildkat can learn in a safe and positive environment.

Our "Calendars" webpage houses three calendars for community use: a district calendar, an athletics calendar, and a fine arts calendar. These calendars are updated routinely to keep you informed about upcoming events.

All Willis ISD campuses also have a campus calendar located on their homepage.

A.R. Turner Elementary Calendar

Brabham Middle School Calendar

Calfee Middle School Calendar

Cannan Elementary Calendar

C.C. Hardy Elementary Calendar

Lagway Elementary Calendar

Lynn Lucas Middle School Calendar

Meador Elementary Calendar

Parmley Elementary Calendar

Roark Early Education Center Calendar

Willis High School Calendar

As part of our efforts to be more environmentally friendly, embrace innovative technology, and maintain fiscal responsibility, we have transitioned from paper to electronic flyer delivery. Our district cooperates with approved community partners by posting digital flyers online and distributing them electronically through our service provider, Peachjar.

If you're a community organization seeking to have your flyer distributed to Willis ISD students and families via Peachjar, please follow these six steps:

1. Visit www.peachjar.com.
2. Hover over the tab titled Community Organizations.
3. Click on Why Peachjar?
4. Select "Get Started Now."
5. Register your organization.
6. Follow the steps to upload your flyer for approval.
   
   

If your event is free and benefits school-aged children, you may be eligible for the Peachjar Community Free Flyer Program. If you believe your flyer meets these guidelines, please submit it to support@peachjar.com for consideration.

You will receive periodic emails about local opportunities through Peachjar, but you can also view your campus Peachjar board anytime by clicking the “Campus Peachjar” button on your school’s website. There, you’ll find flyers relevant to your student.

A R Turner Elementary

Brabham Middle School

Calfee Middle School

Cannan Elementary

C C Hardy Elementary

Lagway Elementary

Lynn Lucas Middle School

Meador Elementary

Parmley Elementary

Roark Early Education Center

Willis High School

Texas Education Code 37.222 requires all Texas public school districts to share with parents and guardians information and resources about the safe storage of firearms including information on section 46.13 of the Texas Penal Code. Willis ISD is sharing this information with you, courtesy of the Texas School Safety Center (TxSSC) in collaboration with the Texas Department of Public Safety (DPS).

Stay up-to-date with all the wonderful things going on in our district by following our
social media accounts! Click on the buttons below and give us a follow.

A.R. Turner Elementary

Brabham Middle School

Calfee Middle School

Cannan Elementary

C.C. Hardy Elementary

Lagway Elementary

Lynn Lucas Middle School

Meador Elementary

Parmley Elementary

Roark Early Education Center

Stubblefield Academy
Willis High School