An exciting new chapter is underway at Montague ISD as construction begins on a campus expansion designed to better serve students for generations to come. The project will add four new classrooms, three offices, and modern restroom facilities, while creating one of the district's most anticipated improvements; connecting the main school building directly to the gymnasium. When completed, Montague ISD students will be housed under one roof, creating a more unified campus and enhancing safety for students, staff, and visitors.
For Superintendent Carla Hennessey, the project represents years of planning and a commitment to providing the best possible learning environment for Montague students. "This is an exciting time for our students, staff, and community," Hennessey said. "Every decision we've made has been centered on creating a campus that better supports learning while providing a safer and more connected environment. We're thrilled to see this vision becoming a reality."
"Having all of our students under one roof is a tremendous benefit," Hennessey said. "It strengthens campus safety, improves supervision, and creates a more connected school community. These are improvements that will positively impact our students every single day."
The district is also proud to move forward with the project without asking voters to approve a bond election. Thanks to years of careful financial planning, the expansion will be funded through the district's well-managed fund balance along with a maintenance note and Time Warrant.
While construction will inevitably bring some temporary inconveniences, including adjustments to traffic flow and daily routines, district leaders are confident the long-term benefits will far outweigh the short-term challenges.
"There will certainly be some growing pains as construction gets underway," Hennessey acknowledged. "We appreciate the patience and support of our families, staff, and community. In the end, we'll have a campus that is better equipped to meet the needs of today's learners while preparing for tomorrow's opportunities."
Beyond the bricks and mortar, the expansion reflects the district's ongoing investment in its greatest resource, its students. The additional classrooms will provide more flexible learning spaces, the new offices will enhance student support services, and the updated restroom facilities will improve comfort and accessibility for everyone on campus.
For Montague ISD, this isn't simply a construction project. It's an investment in the future of the district and every student who walks through its doors.
Montague ISD recently celebrated the achievements and accomplishments of its junior high students during the district’s annual Awards Banquet. The evening highlighted academic excellence, leadership, character, and the many talents of students. Students played an active role in the event by helping set up, dressing nice, practicing proper dining etiquette, and delivering speeches throughout the evening, giving them valuable real-world experiences in leadership and public speaking. Following the banquet, students enjoyed the annual end-of-year dance as a celebration of a successful school year.
One of the most special moments of the evening was the induction of former Montague ISD educator Mrs. Claudette Gray into the Montague ISD Wall of Honor. Mrs. Gray’s remarkable career in education spans more than four decades. After graduating from Commerce High School in 1961, she earned her Bachelor of Science degree from East Texas State University in 1971 and later her Master of Education from Texas Woman’s University in 1996. She also earned certifications in elementary education, early childhood education, and mid-management administration. Mrs. Gray dedicated 20 years of service to Montague ISD, teaching first, second, and kindergarten students from 1971 to 1986 before returning years later to finish her career at MISD from 2016 to 2021 as a junior high English Language Arts teacher. Throughout her career, she built confidence in students, created a sense of belonging, and made every child feel valued. In addition to her classroom impact, Mrs. Gray served in numerous leadership roles, including 11 years as a principal, and consistently stepped in wherever she was needed. Her excellence has been recognized through numerous honors, including Montague ISD Teacher of the Year in 2021, Bowie Primary Teacher of the Year, recognition in Who’s Who Among America’s Teachers, and leadership within the Delta Kappa Gamma Honor Society.
The banquet also recognized this year’s Montague ISD Teachers of the Year. Amanda Rhoades, pre-kindergarten teacher, was honored as Elementary Teacher of the Year, while dyslexia teacher Lila Keck was honored as Secondary Teacher of the Year. Students were also recognized for outstanding academic achievements, including 8th grade Valedictorian Brazos Jones and Salutatorian Levi Newland. Numerous other students were honored throughout the evening for their hard work, leadership, academic accomplishments, and contributions to Montague ISD.
The annual banquet continues to be a treasured tradition at Montague ISD, celebrating the school’s commitment to academic excellence, character development, leadership, and the lasting impact of Eagle Magic (manners, ambition, grit, integrity, confidence).
Montague ISD has officially announced the top academic honorees for the 8th Grade Class of 2026.
Earning the distinction of Valedictorian is Brazos Jones, son of Brad and Polly Jones of Bowie. Brazos has demonstrated exceptional academic performance and commitment, securing the highest rank in his class. He will continue his education at Bowie High School this fall.
Named Salutatorian is Levi Newland, son of William and Christina Newland of Nocona. Levi’s strong academic record and hard work have earned him the second-highest honor in the class. He plans to attend Nocona High School.
Montague ISD congratulates both students on their accomplishments and looks forward to their continued success in high school and beyond.
The Montague 8th Grade Graduation Ceremony will be held on May 21 at 6:00 PM. Family, friends, and community members are invited to attend and celebrate the Class of 2026.
Today, Montague ISD proudly celebrates something truly special—the heart of our school: educators who shape futures, inspire curiosity, and quietly change lives every single day.
This year, two educators stand out not just for what they do, but for how they do it.
Elementary Teacher of the Year is pre-kindergarten teacher Amanda Rhoades who has spent nearly two decades—19 years—serving students right here in Montague. She pours her heart into her students and is known for her kindness, compassion, and willingness to help anyone at any time. A lifelong learner, she leads by example, and her excellence has been recognized before, including being named Teacher of the Year in 2014–2015. As a TIA-designated teacher, she reflects the powerful impact a dedicated educator can make in the classroom every single day.
Secondary Teacher of the Year is dyslexia teacher and coordinator Lila Keck who brings 26 years of experience in education, with 13 of those years dedicated to Montague ISD. She is also a TIA-designated teacher and a former Teacher of the Year, recognized in 2018–2019. What truly sets her apart is her ability to build strong, meaningful relationships with her students. Her compassion creates a classroom environment where students feel seen, supported, and inspired to succeed.
These two remarkable educators represent the very best of Montague ISD. They embody commitment, care, and the belief that every student matters.
