Eastland High School

Eastland Independent School District proudly hosted the Texas Association of School Administrators (TASA) Small Schools Network (SSN) event, “Past, Present, Possible,” a three-day conference that brought together superintendents and educational leaders from across Texas to share ideas, celebrate innovation, and plan for the future of small and rural schools.

The event began on Tuesday, November 11, with a networking dinner at The Lumber Yard Event Center in Eastland. Attendees enjoyed classic Texas BBQ catered by Buck and Amy Williams of Gone to Texas Catering. The evening set a tone of camaraderie and excitement for the days ahead, highlighting Eastland’s warm hospitality and community pride.

Exploring Eastland ISD’s Excellence

Wednesday, November 12, kicked off with a vibrant and heartfelt welcome as visitors were greeted in true Maverick Country style. The Maverick Spirit Line — featuring the drum line, cheerleaders, athletes, and FFA officers — filled the morning with energy and pride, giving guests a spirited Eastland welcome to the TASA Small Schools Network gathering.

Guests enjoyed breakfast provided by James Doyle, whose generosity and support helped start the morning with a true taste of Eastland hospitality.

Following breakfast, attendees were treated to a special performance by Siebert Elementary’s 5th graders, who presented their moving “Hometown Heroes” program under the direction of Kathy Harris, Siebert Elementary music teacher. The students’ performance honored local first responders, veterans, and community heroes — a touching reminder of Eastland ISD’s values of service, gratitude, and heart.

Welcoming remarks followed from Jill Siler, Deputy Executive Director of TASA; Michelle Rinehart, Alpine ISD Superintendent and SSN Co-Chair; Jeremy Williams, Eastland ISD Superintendent; and Jim Moylan Jr., Eastland ISD Board President.

Visitors then embarked on campus tours showcasing Eastland ISD’s dedication to academic excellence, innovation, and student engagement. Tours were proudly conducted by Siebert Elementary Student Council members, Eastland Middle School Student Council members, FFA officers, and members of the Superintendent’s Student Advisory Cabinet, who served as knowledgeable and enthusiastic ambassadors for their schools and community.

During the luncheon at The Lumber Yard, attendees enjoyed a delicious Italian meal prepared and served by the Eastland High School Culinary Arts students, under the direction of teachers Amy Lopez and Tori Payne. Guests also had the blessing of hearing from Mrs. Gay Hart, a beloved longtime Eastland ISD educator and current ELA teacher at Eastland Middle School, whose heartfelt message captured the pride, dedication, and community spirit that define Eastland ISD.

In a memorable highlight, guests took the Old Rip Oath, a cherished Eastland tradition, administered by Amy O’Brien-Glenn, Eastland County Extension Agent. The ceremony offered a lighthearted connection to Eastland’s colorful history and celebrated the community’s enduring spirit of pride and perseverance.

The afternoon featured sessions on strategic planning, funding, and leadership with Angela Fitzpatrick (Karnack ISD), Brian Bymaster (Bland ISD), and Jaime Clark (Henrietta ISD). The day also included a district spotlight on Grow Your Own (GYO) programs from Runge ISD and a presentation on Leading Instructional Improvement by Shelley Davis, Eastland ISD Director of Curriculum and Instruction, and Brandon Chesser, Eastland High School Principal.

The day concluded with a festive dinner at The Lumber Yard, catered by Levi Cunningham of Cunningham Catering, followed by a special movie night at the historic Majestic Theatre, featuring a Marlin documentary and post-viewing Q&A with Dr. Darryl Henson.

Inspiring Leadership and Innovation

Thursday’s sessions focused on practical strategies and forward-thinking leadership. Jeremy Williams, Shelley Davis, Eastland ISD Director of Curriculum and Instruction, and Mary Jones, Eastland ISD Assistant Superintendent, led a discussion on Recruiting and Retention in Eastland ISD and the Teacher Incentive Allotment (TIA).

Other highlights included:

• AI for Small School Leaders by Hector Dominguez and Angelina Torres of Runge ISD,

• Leading a Culture Turnaround: From Loss to Legacy by Angela Fitzpatrick, and

• Community Connections by Brian Bymaster and Jaime Clark, highlighting programs like Watchdogs, Ambassadors, and Golden Bearcats.

The conference concluded with reflections from Michelle Rinehart and closing remarks from Jeremy Williams, Michelle Rinehart, Kimberly Followwell (Murchison ISD), and Kevin Brown (TASA Executive Director), emphasizing gratitude, collaboration, and a shared vision for the future of Texas education.

A Shared Vision for the Future

The “Past, Present, Possible” event was a powerful celebration of collaboration among small and rural school leaders. Through shared innovation, leadership, and vision, the TASA Small Schools Network continues to champion the success of districts that serve as the heart of their communities.

“Hosting this event in Eastland was an honor,” said Superintendent Jeremy Williams. “It was an incredible opportunity to highlight our students, staff, and community while learning from outstanding leaders across the state.”