The Aransas Pass ISD Board of Trustees recognized the Panthers and Employees of the Month at their December 8th Regular Board Meeting.
December 2025 Panthers of the Month
Ezequiel Gonzalez is a kindergarten student at Faulk Elementary. Ezequiel consistently demonstrates the qualities and character of an exemplary PAX leader. He is diligent about following rules and directions, and he frequently encourages his peers to make positive choices as well. Ezequiel approaches his schoolwork with dedication and care, always striving to do his best. He takes his time to ensure that his assignments are completed thoughtfully and accurately. In addition to his strong academic habits, Ezequiel is an exceptional helper—not only to me, but also to his classmates and friends. His willingness to support others contributes to a positive and respectful classroom environment. It is truly a pleasure to have Ezequiel at Faulk. We look forward to continuing to watch him learn, grow, and further develop the leadership qualities that make him such a remarkable student.
Azlynn Munoz is a 4th grader at Charlie Marshall. Azlynn comes in each day ready to learn, ready to grow, and ready to support the positive classroom environment we strive for. Her transformation and steady dedication embody the spirit of our district’s mission, and she truly deserves recognition as Student of the Month.
Madison Sloan is a 6th grader at A.C. Blunt. We are proud to recognize Madison as AC Blunt’s Panther of the Month for her outstanding academic achievements and consistent dedication to excellence. Madison’s friendly smile brightens our classrooms and hallways, creating a welcoming and positive atmosphere for peers and teachers alike. Always supportive and willing to help others, Madison demonstrates kindness, teamwork, and strong character in all she does. Truly an all-around exceptional student, Madison is a shining example of what it means to lead with both heart and hard work.
Richard Lockhart is a freshman at Aransas Pass High and always strives to be the best in everything he does. From the football field, to his academics, Richard has a work ethic that will always keep him at the top. Richard has already shown college readiness by passing his English and Math portions of the TSI making him only a handful of students in the state to pass the exam as a freshman. Richard is also involved in the Health Science program where is working towards several certifications. Richard has the ability to one day be the President of the United and he would have one High School Principals vote right now. His hard work, dedication, and drive are what make Richard Lockhart Aransas Pass High School’s December Panther of the Month.
December 2025 Employees of the Month
Gregory Giageos is the PE teacher at Faulk Elementary. Mr. Giageos displayed genuine passion, dedication, and commitment in delivering an exciting and engaging physical education experience to students at Faulk Elementary. Mr. Giageos exemplifies the qualities of an excellent educator. He leads with compassion, devises strategies that prioritize students' best interests, and consistently demonstrates a willingness to learn and grow. We are truly delighted by the contributions Mr. Giageos has made, not only to his students but also through the positive energy he pours into the campus community. Congratulations Mr. Giageos!
Melissa Cadena is a paraprofessional at Charlie Marshall Elementary. Ms. Cadena consistently brings an upbeat, positive energy to our campus. Her creativity shines in the classroom, and she continually goes the extra mile to build morale and strengthen our school community.
Justin Hodge is a Special Education teacher at A.C. Blunt. We are proud to recognize Mr. Justin Hodge for his unwavering love and loyalty to our campus community. His enthusiasm and energy is contagious, inspiring students to learn, grow, and believe in themselves. Beyond his impact on students, Mr. Hodge continually demonstrates an endless desire to support and care for his colleagues. Whether offering a helping hand, sharing a word of encouragement, or cooking our many meals, he embodies what it means to be a true team player. Thank you, Mr. Hodge, for your dedication, your heart, and the positivity you bring to AC Blunt every day. You make our campus stronger, and we are grateful for all you do.
Terry Silvas, Reyna Balderas, Alicia Bustamante, Paula Alvarado, Terri Guerra, Gee Zamora
There are many people who make a school run but none so important as the ladies who cook and serve the food. When a student goes through the lunch line at APHS, they not only get good food, but they also get a smile and lots of love. To our cafeteria workers, our students are more than just a number, our students are important and they take the time to learn their names and even their preferences on certain food items. If you are having a bad day, go into the kitchen in the cafeteria because you will immediately be laughing or getting teased about being a Cowboys fan. We could not do what we do at the High School without these hard-working women. Hard working, dedicated, and loving, are all reasons why the cafeteria staff are Aransas Pass High School’s December Employees of the month.
APISD Administration is honored to name Cruz Smith as our Employee of the Month. Always here, always reliable, and always on top of her duties, she exemplifies professionalism and dedication. Her dependability, steady presence, and exceptional command of her responsibilities ensure our financial operations run smoothly & keep our district operating with accuracy and confidence. We truly appreciate her commitment and the excellence she displays in all she does. Thank you, Cruz, for the outstanding service and support you provide to our district.
The Maintenance and Transportation staff is proud to name Gabriel Gonzales as our Employee of the Month. Gabriel is an excellent employee. He is always willing to do what needs to be done. Gabriel has been with us for a short period of time but has demonstrated that he is a team player and hard worker.