Medina Valley School District adopts Creek View High School mascot and colors

Castroville Elementary recently hosted a "Discovering Disabilities Day," an event aimed at raising awareness among students about the experiences of those with disabilities. Sponsored by Kinetic Kids, the initiative featured Medina Valley graduate Ali Welch, who engaged students and staff in understanding the challenges faced by their peers with disabilities. The event was well-received, fostering greater empathy and understanding within the school community.

In another significant discussion, the district is addressing the growing presence of artificial intelligence (AI) in education. Following a meeting with teachers, it became clear that opinions on AI usage vary widely. Some educators advocate for unrestricted use, while others oppose it entirely. To navigate this divide, a committee led by Miss Hendricks will be formed to establish guidelines for both teachers and students regarding AI usage. The goal is to implement these guidelines by the next school year, ensuring that AI is used responsibly and effectively in the classroom.

The district also celebrated the success of its Tractor Tech team, which placed third in a recent competition, showcasing the talents of its students in technical skills.

In recognition of its achievements, the district has been selected as one of three finalists for the HEB Excellence in Education Award, a prestigious honor that reflects the hard work of its staff and students. HEB representatives will visit the district in the coming weeks to learn more about its programs and initiatives.

Additionally, the district is preparing for future leadership needs through the VP Academy, which aims to develop aspiring leaders within the district. This initiative will help ensure a strong leadership pipeline as the district grows.

On the legislative front, discussions are underway regarding potential increases in public education funding, with proposals suggesting nearly $5 billion in new allocations. However, concerns remain about the impact of property tax relief measures and the ongoing debate over school vouchers, which could significantly affect funding for public schools.

Enrollment figures have also seen a positive uptick, surpassing 9,700 students, indicating a growing interest in the district's educational offerings.

Finally, the board approved the mascot, logo, and colors for the new Creek View High School, following a student survey that revealed strong support for the "Cougars" mascot and a baby blue color scheme. This decision marks a significant step in establishing the school's identity and will pave the way for merchandise and branding efforts as the school prepares to welcome its first students.