Houston Middle School celebrates Science Olympiad winners and Coach Willingham’s national award

Hobbs Municipal Schools celebrated significant achievements in science and athletics during their March 2025 Board Meeting, highlighting the dedication and success of students and staff alike.

The meeting commenced with the recognition of Houston Middle School's impressive performance at the regional and state Science Olympiad, where they secured fourth place in both competitions. Notably, they were the highest-ranked public school in their division, outperforming several private and charter schools. The board honored students who excelled in various categories, including first-place winners Keller Day, Kasim Maddox, and Jamie Ortega for their work in codebusters, as well as Lillian Couples and Emmy Simon for their fossil project.

In addition to the Science Olympiad accolades, the board recognized Coach Jeff Willingham, who received the prestigious 2024 Frank Broyles Assistant Coach of the Year award. This national honor is awarded to only one coach per state, emphasizing Willingham's commitment to developing young athletes both on and off the field. His coaching philosophy focuses on nurturing character and responsibility, making a lasting impact on students' lives.

The meeting underscored the importance of academic and athletic excellence in the Hobbs community, showcasing the hard work and dedication of both students and educators. As the school year progresses, these achievements serve as a testament to the commitment of Hobbs Municipal Schools to fostering a culture of success and growth among its students.