The Midway Independent School District (ISD) Board meeting held on March 26, 2025, celebrated notable achievements by students and staff while addressing important operational matters that impact the community.
One of the highlights of the evening was the recognition of Ben Blaylock, a senior swimmer from Midway High School. Ben was honored for his impressive performance at the UIL 6A State Swimming and Diving Championships, where he finished 21st in the 50-yard freestyle and 20th in the 100-yard freestyle. His accomplishments include three district championship titles and consistent qualifications for regional championships over the past three years. The board and community members applauded Ben for his dedication and representation of Midway ISD.
In addition to athletic achievements, the board acknowledged the culinary talents of Midway High School students who participated in Aramark's statewide culinary star competition. Juniors Nehemiah Horton, Tian Lee, and Bridal McKenzie showcased their skills by creating a Southwest-inspired burger, competing against over 40 students statewide. Their participation not only highlighted their culinary creativity but also emphasized the importance of teamwork and skill development in the culinary arts.
The meeting also celebrated the outstanding contributions of the Midway ISD Communications team, which received gold ratings for all submissions in the Texas School Public Relations Association's statewide star awards. Communications Director Emily Parks and Coordinator Robert Pryor were recognized for their exceptional work, including the design of the district's police car logo and the annual holiday card. Notably, Midway ISD achieved the most "best of category" wins among districts with fewer than 15,000 students, underscoring the quality of their communications efforts.
As the meeting progressed, board members discussed operational topics, including the scheduling of middle school sports. Questions were raised about potential changes to practice times and the impact on students' class schedules. The board assured that current practices would remain largely unchanged, aiming to minimize disruptions to students' academic commitments.
Overall, the March board meeting not only celebrated student and staff achievements but also addressed community concerns regarding school operations, reinforcing the district's commitment to excellence in education and extracurricular activities. The board's discussions and recognitions reflect a strong focus on fostering talent and ensuring that students thrive both academically and personally.