Mercedes proclaims UIL academic recognition day, honors state qualifiers

Mayor Oscar de Montoya read a proclamation at the June 2 City Commission meeting recognizing Mercedes Independent School District UIL academic competitors and declaring June 2, 2026, "Mercedes ISD UIL academic student recognition day." The proclamation noted six students who competed at the regional meet and highlighted that a Mercedes ISD student qualified for state competition for the first time in many years.

Ruby Pena, identified in the meeting as the UIL coordinator at Mercedes High School, told the commission the district was proud of the students and their work. "We're very very proud of Zach and the rest of the kids," Pena said, thanking sponsors and coaches for supporting the competitors.

Student honoree Zachary Sanchez thanked his coaches and family and described the preparation that led to his placement. "I just want to thank these two sponsors for being able to be there for me and pushing me throughout the year," Sanchez said, and said he relied on practice tests and support from his coach and mother to reach state-level competition.

Monica Scamia, introduced as Zachary's journalism coach, said journalism requires significant work and praised his commitment. A parent who spoke during the recognition noted the sacrifices students and families make to participate in UIL competitions and urged the community to celebrate academic accomplishments as well as athletics.

The commission and those in attendance took photographs with the students and their families. The recognition concludes with the commission's formal proclamation and public congratulations to the students and educators involved.