The Aransas Pass ISD Board of Trustees recognized the Panthers and Employees of the Month at their November 9th Regular Board Meeting.
November 2026 Panthers of the Month
Mason Fuentes is a 2nd grade student at Faulk Elementary. Mason has been a fantastic PAX leader by following PAX rules during transitions in the hallway. Mason is following one and two step directions in the classrooms and when in line to and from specials and PE. We are super proud of Mason.
Jeremiah Cozad is a 4th grade student at Charlie Marshall. Jeremiah consistently demonstrates a strong work ethic, perseverance, and determination in everything he does. He follows campus expectations, stays focused on his goals, and continues to push through challenges even when things get difficult. Jeremiah is also a great friend, always willing to lend a helping hand and encourage others. His positive attitude and willingness to work hard make him a wonderful example of Panther PRIDE. We are so proud of his dedication and the example he sets for others.
Landen Davila is an 8th grade student at A.C. Blunt. Landen stands out as a campus leader in the classroom and on the field, and works hard at everything he sets his mind to. He can be depended on to lend a hand, help a friend, or be a model student who exemplifies all that we expect in our students. We are so proud to showcase Landen as our Panther of the Month.
Olivia Cunningham is a freshman at Aransas Pass High School. Olivia is an outstanding example of what it means to be a Panther! She consistently demonstrates an amazing attitude, a positive spirit, and a commitment to excellence in everything she does. Olivia is involved in so many aspects of our school, representing APHS with pride as a member of our State-Bound ROTC unit, The Panther Band, an athlete, and an APHS Cheerleader. What makes Olivia especially deserving of this recognition is the enthusiasm and positive attitude she brings to every opportunity. She balances multiple extracurricular commitments while continuing to demonstrate dedication, leadership, school spirit, and Panther pride. Whether she is representing our school on the field, in the band, through ROTC, or in the classroom, Olivia gives her best and makes those around her better. She exemplifies what it means to live out Purpose, Passion, and Pride and that is why Olivia Cunningham is Aransas Pass High School’s November Panther of the Month.
November 2026 Employees of the Month
Laura Juarez is the registrar at Faulk Elementary. Thank you, Ms. Juarez, for being the heart of Faulk! Your dedication, hard work, and teamwork help keep our campus running smoothly each and every day. Faulk would not be the same without you! Your efforts never go unnoticed, and we are so grateful for all that you do. You are truly appreciated!
Betty Stark is a paraprofessional at Charlie Marshall Elementary. Ms. Betty consistently makes an effort to bring our staff together by helping plan and organize luncheons and finding ways to boost teacher morale. These thoughtful gestures, although sometimes small, make a meaningful difference in creating a more positive and encouraging work environment. In addition to her efforts to support our teachers, she plays an important role in supporting both students and staff through her work in ISS. She demonstrates a willingness to help, an understanding of the challenges teachers face, and a commitment to making sure students are supported, even during difficult moments. Her contributions often happen behind the scenes, but they do not go unnoticed. Her dedication to our campus community, her willingness to step in where needed, and her genuine efforts to make our school a better place for both students and staff make her very deserving of this recognition.
Mason West is the technology teacher and a coach at A.C. Blunt Middle School. Coach West is being highlighted as our Employee of the Month due to his work ethic and tremendous growth as a new teacher. Coach West has consistently demonstrated his commitment to his students and athletes through his conversations with them and his oversight when it is needed most. He holds our students accountable for their academics and behavior choices. The peace of mind he has afforded his administrators has been so appreciated. Thank you, Coach West, for all you do for AC Blunt!
Sara Bowers is a special education teacher Aransas Pass High School. As our Special Education Department Chair, Sara already carries significant responsibilities, but she has also stepped up and taken on the duties of a second job. She has handled this additional responsibility with professionalism, dedication, and an incredible attitude. What makes Sara so special is that she has taken on these extra responsibilities without complaint. Instead, she has continued to show up, work hard, support her colleagues, and make sure our students and campus are taken care of. Her willingness to do whatever is needed, even when it means taking on more than what is expected, speaks volumes about her character and commitment to our school. Sara is the kind of employee every campus hopes to have. She is dependable, dedicated, and hardworking and that is why Sara Bowers is Aransas Pass High School’s November Employee of the Month.
Jenna Adame is the executive assistant to the superintendent and Board of Trustees. Jenna is very dependable, punctual, and consistently stays one step ahead, anticipating needs and making sure things are taken care of before they become concerns. She is always willing to step up, step in, and lend a helping hand wherever needed. Jenna works diligently behind the scenes coordinating schedules, managing calendars, organizing trainings, and ensuring our Board of Trustees stays informed and up to date on training opportunities and board member requirements. Her attention to detail and commitment to making sure things get done right are greatly appreciated. And perhaps one of her more challenging responsibilities is keeping me (Mr. Bennett) in line here at Central Office! Fortunately, she handles that task with the same professionalism, patience, and good humor she brings to everything she does. Above all, Jenna approaches her work with integrity, a positive attitude, and a smile. She takes pride in doing things the right way, and her contributions do not go unnoticed. Jenna, I am truly grateful for all you do for me, our Board of Trustees, and Aransas Pass ISD. Your hard work, your dedication and your commitment make a difference every day. Thank you Jenna and congratulations on this well-deserved recognition!
Chris Cortez is an important member of our Maintenance team. Chris consistently goes above and beyond to ensure our campuses arevsafe, clean, and fully operational for students and staff. Whether tackling urgent repairs or managing routine upkeep Chris brings a high level of expertise, precision, and dedication to the job every day. Thank you, Chris, for your hard work and commitment to excellence!