At last night’s February 2026 Granbury ISD Board Meeting, we were proud to recognize several outstanding students for their incredible accomplishments and dedication.
Acton Middle School Board Update
At last night’s Board Meeting, Acton Middle School Principal Jennifer Pennington, along with Special Programs Coordinator Angie Payne, Counselor Carrie Jones, and Special Programs Department Head Meredith Brummer shared an inside look at the great work happening at AMS and the culture that continues to grow across campus.
The following AMS Students on the Unified Robotics Team helped present the pledges at the meeting: Aubree Steele, Kyndall Huggins, Callan Bufkin, and Ali Cabrera.
AMS at a Glance:
Acton Middle School is continuing to build a strong campus culture focused on student success, connection, and belonging—where every student is seen, supported, and challenged.
Use Words of Encouragement:
AMS is putting relationships first through intentional daily practices like greeting students at the door, building social contracts, and celebrating student voice. Students even shared powerful testimonials about how these small moments make them feel welcomed, confident, and ready to learn.
Creating a Safe, Protective Environment:
From strong attendance (95.38% ADA) to positive campus systems and safety measures, AMS continues prioritizing a secure environment where students can thrive academically and socially.
Treating Others with Kindness & Respect:
Acton Middle School continues to shine through student leadership, service, and inclusion, highlighted by programs like Unified Sports, strong student organizations, and a campus-wide commitment to building others up.
We All Belong Here:
AMS is proud to be recognized with an overall “B” rating, reflecting academic progress and continued growth across the board. From fine arts success to athletics and student involvement, AMS students are finding ways to connect, contribute, and succeed.
District & Spanish Spelling Bee Winners
Granbury ISD recognized our Campus Spelling Bee Champions and Spanish Spelling Bee Winners, presented by STEAM Academy at Mambrino Principal Melissa Shipp and District Spelling Bee Coordinator Dan Allard.
Campus Winners:
- Caden Stutz (Acton)
- Isaac Fuentes (Baccus)
- Rafael Quinonez (Brawner)
- Hayden Pigrenet (Oak Woods)
- Dane McCarthy (Mambrino – District Winner)
- Harper Fox (Acton Middle School)
- Luke Lewellen (Granbury Middle School)
Spanish Spelling Bee Winners:
- Dania Moreno (Baccus – District Winner)
- Ismeray Pelaez (Brawner)
Texas Dance Educators Association (TDEA) All-State Honoree
GHS Stowaway Captain Paislee Cogburn, recognized by Coach Shelby Sargent, was named a 2026 TDEA All-State Dancer. Paislee represented Granbury ISD with excellence at the TDEA Convention and was also selected as one of only five students statewide to receive the prestigious Founders Scholarship.
Texas Music Educators Association (TMEA) All-State Honoree
Braelyn Desormeaux, recognized by Band Assistant Director Lindsey Byrom, was selected as a TMEA All-State Musician. All-State musicians represent the top 1% of student performers in Texas, earning their spot through multiple rounds of auditions. Braelyn will perform at the TMEA Convention in San Antonio later this month.
Shottenkirk Senior of the Month
Congratulations to Joycelene “Joy” Ezra, who was recognized as Shottenkirk Senior of the Month! Joy plans to attend Tarleton State University and major in Psychology, while staying involved in numerous activities at GHS including Varsity Choir, UIL Spelling & Vocabulary, National Honor Society, and a student teaching internship at Brawner Elementary.
Wes Jones Retirement Recognition
The Board recognized Wes Jones, who announced his retirement following 39 years of service in public education. Wes served as Granbury ISD’s Director of Human Resources since July 2016, providing nearly a decade of steady leadership and support for staff, campuses, and district operations.
