School diagnosticians work behind the scenes to help identify student needs, support teachers, and ensure every child has the opportunity to succeed. Their work requires expertise, patience, and a heart for students.
We’re grateful for the impact Beverly Hill, our diagnostician, makes every day for our Buccaneers. 💚💛⚓️
Experience the Buccaneer Difference 💚💛
As a part of our crew, all ECISD teachers are eligible to participate in the Teacher Incentive Allotment program.
East Chambers ISD has a fully approved local designation system submitted to the Texas Education Agency (TEA) to participate in this process.
We are proud to share that 46 of our teachers have earned designations. TIA was created by the Texas Legislature as part of House Bill 3 to help recruit, retain, and reward effective educators in the classroom at high-needs campuses. The TIA provides additional funding to eligible teachers who earn local designations through this allotment system.
ECISD teachers are eligible for a higher allotment based on the district’s demographics and location.
Check out the current openings and learn more about all the opportunities available in ECISD.
🔗www.eastchambers.net/joinourcrew
This week, we’re shining the spotlight on one of our incredible PreK4 teachers, Mrs. Kristina Yonker, who is building strong foundations, nurturing big hearts, and proving that even our smallest learners can have the “best day ever.” From creating a classroom family to helping students grow in independence and kindness, her impact reaches far beyond the classroom walls. 💚💛
What is your teaching philosophy?
In the teaching profession, the pendulum is always swinging. Curriculum and ideas about the best teaching methods are constantly changing. However, the overall goal of student success is a constant. No matter the resources provided or methods used, I will do my best to meet each student’s needs. Every student is different. You have to build a relationship with each one. They all have to feel loved and safe in the school environment in order to be successful academically. That is why my teaching philosophy is centered around building a school family in the classroom and doing my best to make learning fun and engaging. Every day can have the “best day ever” feel when you are surrounded by family.
What’s your favorite ‘lightbulb moment’ you see in students?
I love the “lightbulb” moments when a student asks for help, then discovers they can do it on their own. Teaching Pre-K, it is fun to see students learn skills that help them be independent with daily tasks. I also love when students start to recognize others’ feelings and suggest strategies while offering support and comfort. I enjoy listening to students tell me that they offered strategies at home or outside of the school setting when they noticed a need. It is very heartwarming to know that I am helping to instill a love for others in my students.
What do you love about teaching at ECISD?
I LOVE teaching at ECISD for so many reasons. I have been in other schools where walking down the halls felt cold and unwelcoming. ECP is the complete opposite. You are greeted with a smile or kind words every day. Our staff and teachers go out of their way to make everyone feel loved and welcomed. We are family. I can’t imagine teaching anywhere else. It’s always a GREAT DAY to be a BUC!
💡 Our future starts in classrooms just like this one — where students feel safe, supported, and excited to learn. Thank you for pouring your heart into our youngest Buccaneers and reminding us that big success often begins with small steps. ⚓💚💛
#TeacherTalksTuesday #BuccaneerPride #ECISD
#JoinOurCrew 💚💛
East Chambers ISD is now hiring! Join Ariana on our Crew and discover the supportive, welcoming environment she loves. We have the following positions available:
⚓️Primary/Elementary Principal
⚓️Primary Life Skills Teacher
⚓️Elementary Assistant Principal
⚓️Junior High ELA Teacher
⚓️Junior High Math Teacher
⚓️Junior High Science Teacher
⚓️Junior High Social Studies
⚓️High School Assistant Band Director
⚓️District Speech/Language Pathology Assistant
⚓️Substitute Teachers
⚓️Child Nutrition Substitutes
Check out these opportunities on our *NEW* Join Our Crew webpage: www.eastchambers.net/joinourcrew
From Read Across America celebrations to field trips and plenty of Buccaneer spirit, there’s a lot happening across ECISD! ⛵️
Check out this week’s “Buccaneers in the Know” to stay up to date on all the action. ⚓️
#BuccaneerPride #ECProud
Flashback Friday 💚💛💙
It’s National FFA Week, and today we’re celebrating National Wear Blue Day by honoring some of EC’s original FFA members.
In 1974–75, East Chambers ISD launched its very first FFA chapter. The first big project? Building the original ag barn. By 1975–76, the chapter was already growing — and so was the pride stitched into those blue jackets.
Now, 51 years later… Same school. Same community. Same commitment to doing the work and doing it well.
From that first ag barn to today’s barns, banners, and buckles, FFA at EC is more than livestock and leadership contests. It’s family tradition. Community roots. And generations of Buccaneers learning to lead — some now watching their grandchildren wear the same blue jacket they once did. 💙⚓️🌾
Tell us — what does the blue jacket mean to you? 💙👇
When a medical emergency unfolded in the lobby of the Kountze High School gym, Sean Norton didn’t hesitate—he acted. Directed to call 911, he responded immediately, followed instructions with calm focus, and made sure emergency services were contacted without delay. While others froze, Sean stepped forward. His courage, composure, and quick thinking played a critical role in getting lifesaving help to the scene. In a moment that demanded leadership and heart, he delivered—fully embodying the true Buccaneer spirit. For his outstanding character and bravery, Sean was presented a well-deserved Buccaneer Challenge Coin by Nurse Vratis. 👏💚💛
Today we celebrate School Business and Operations Day! 💼📊🏫
School business and operations teams are the backbone of our districts. From managing finances and reporting to overseeing facilities, safety, and daily operations, their work makes everything else possible.
We’re incredibly grateful for our PEIMS Director, Mattie Kleckley; Business Manager, Gena Albrecht; and Operations Director, Toby Kahla. Their expertise, precision, and commitment ensure our schools operate efficiently and effectively every single day. 💚💛
Great schools don’t just happen — they’re supported by exceptional people.
This week, we’re spotlighting Mrs. Victoria Dodd, our high school World History teacher, who helps students see beyond textbooks and timelines to understand the world they’re living in today. Her classroom is a place where voices matter, perspectives are honored, and history comes alive in powerful, meaningful ways. 🌍📚
What is your teaching philosophy?
My teaching philosophy focuses on building a classroom where every student feels safe, welcomed, and truly seen. I want students to feel comfortable being themselves, speaking up, and learning from their mistakes, all while preparing them for the responsibilities they’ll face beyond the classroom. I understand that each student brings their own background, experiences, and perspective, and I intentionally work to honor those differences every day. Through strong relationships, clear expectations, and a lot of empathy, I strive to create an environment where students feel supported as they grow into confident, capable, and responsible individuals.
What is your favorite ‘lightbulb moment’ you see in students?
My favorite lightbulb moment is when a student suddenly realizes that we don’t study history just to memorize dates or names, but because it explains why our world works the way it does. It’s the moment they understand that the choices our nation and other nations make are shaped by what has already gone wrong or right in the past so history doesn’t repeat itself. You can almost see it click when they realize the past actually protects us from the mistakes of the future, showing us what works, what doesn’t, and why. In that moment, history stops being something “old” and becomes a guide, helping them make sense of the present and imagine a smarter, more thoughtful future.
What do you love about teaching at ECISD?
What I love most about teaching at ECISD is that it truly feels like home. As an alumna, returning to this district is incredibly meaningful because it’s the same community that helped shape me, and now I get the privilege of teaching its students. The kids here are what make this place so special because they come from diverse backgrounds, bring unique perspectives into the classroom, and show up every day with resilience, curiosity, and heart. Watching them grow academically and personally, gain confidence in their voices, and begin to understand their place in the world is one of the most rewarding parts of my job. I feel supported in every aspect of my life, which allows me to fully support my students, and our administration consistently ensures teachers are taken care of so we can focus on building strong relationships and helping students succeed. You can truly feel how much they care for both staff and students through every program, function, and layer of support they provide.
🌟 Teachers like Mrs. Dodd remind us that history isn’t just about the past — it’s about preparing students to think critically, lead thoughtfully, and shape a better future. We’re proud to have her guiding our Buccaneers every day. 💚💛
#TeacherTalksTuesday #BuccaneerPride #ECISD
💚💛 We’re Hiring at East Chambers ISD — and Here’s Why You’ll Love It Here ⚓️🏴☠️
💚 You’re valued here. Competitive salaries and TIA eligibility across all certified teaching areas mean your work is recognized and rewarded.
💛 You’re supported here. Affordable in-district childcare makes life easier for working families.
⚓️ You’re connected here. Small-town pride isn’t just a slogan — it means relationships matter, teamwork is real, and people step up for each other.
🏴☠️ You’re growing here. From leadership roles to classroom positions, EC is a place where you can build a career — not just take a job.
We work hard. We cheer loud. We back our people. And we’re building something special in green and gold.
If you’re ready to be part of a district that believes in its staff as much as its students, take a look at the openings and come join the crew. 💚💛
📍 Apply today: https://www.applitrack.com/eastchambers/onlineapp/
#EastChambers #BucPride #GreenAndGold #NowHiring #TeachTexas
It’s a packed week of games, tournaments, and special events! Check out this week’s Buccaneers In The Know, mark your calendars, and come out to support our students.
Let’s make it a great week in Green & Gold! 💚⚓️💛
East Chambers ISD is proud to recognize Sheriff Hawthorne for his unwavering commitment to our students, staff, and community. His leadership reflects what true community partnership looks like: protecting today’s students while investing in their future. We are grateful for his dedication to East Chambers ISD. ⚓
Our phones and internet service have been fully restored.
Thank you for your patience and flexibility while we worked through the outage. We appreciate your understanding and are glad to be back up and running!
💚💛 Green & Gold Greats! 💚💛
Alex Lavergne leads by example with responsibility, respect, and a strong work ethic. He stays focused, gives his best effort, and sets a positive tone in the classroom.
Skylar Moore comes ready to learn, participates with confidence, and brings positive energy each day. Her determination, kindness, and leadership truly set her apart.
Connor Burrell shows up with a positive attitude and a willingness to try his best. He’s kind, helpful, and encourages others while staying focused on learning.
Addie Ferguson is responsible, respectful, and consistently gives her best effort. Her quiet confidence and steady growth make her someone others can count on.
Caleb Beighley is selfless, caring, and hardworking. His persistence shows in his work and sets a strong example for his peers.
Zanei Garza brings positivity, respect, and a strong work ethic to everything she does. She’s always ready to learn and eager to grow.
Secure your tickets here: 🎟️👇
https://events.hometownticketing.com/boxoffice/woodvilleisd/L2VtYmVkL2V2ZW50LzY2
Let’s show up loud, proud, and ready to cheer our team all the way through the postseason. See you at tip-off!
Today, we’re proud to recognize National School Resource Officer Appreciation Day (2/15) and celebrate the incredible work of our Campus Security Deputies (CSDs). Through our partnership with the Chambers County Sheriff's Office, these three deputies serve our campuses with dedication, professionalism, and heart.
They do far more than patrol hallways. They build relationships, mentor students, attend events, and provide a steady, trusted presence each day. Their commitment to keeping our schools safe while strengthening connections with students and staff truly reflects what it means to be anchored in community.
On National SRO Day, and every day, we are grateful for their service and the care they show our Buccaneers. Thank you for standing watch, building trust, and helping keep our schools safe. ⚓💚💛
From solving real-world problems to tackling the toughest calculus concepts, today we’re highlighting Haylea Barrow, one of our high school math teachers who challenges students to think deeper, push further, and realize they’re capable of more than they imagined. 📐➗
What’s your teaching philosophy?
My teaching philosophy is all about helping students understand math and see why it matters. I focus on problem-solving, real-world examples, and critical thinking so students can connect what they learn in class to future studies, careers, and everyday life.
What’s your favorite ‘lightbulb moment’ you see in students?
Now that I’m teaching precal and calculus, it’s really rewarding to see the connections my students make to what they learned in geometry. I especially love watching my calculus students’ faces when everything finally clicks after they’ve been convinced there’s no way they can do it.
What do you love about teaching at ECISD?
Teaching is kind of a family tradition for me. My mom, Robin Rollo, taught third grade at EC for 32 years. My grandpa, Donald Spencer, taught art and literature, coached basketball, and drove a bus for 35 years, and my grandmother, Barbara Spencer, worked as the elementary secretary for 43 years. I had the very best examples to learn from. I grew up at EC and have only ever taught at EC. The sense of community and family here is truly special and something you just can’t find anywhere else.
💚📚 When a teacher grows up in the same halls she now teaches in, that pride runs deep. Watching students build confidence, make connections, and conquer the “impossible” is what it’s all about. We’re thankful for educators who prove that with the right support, even calculus can click.
#TeacherTalksTuesday #BuccaneerPride ⚓
Welcome back to East Chambers, Matt Fowler, our incoming 26-27 High School Principal! 💚💛🏴☠️
Mr. Fowler returns with prior experience as an assistant principal at East Chambers Junior High and most recently at Shepherd High School. Mr. Fowler is committed to building strong relationships, setting clear expectations, and creating an environment where students and staff thrive. We’re excited to have him back leading the Buccaneers! ⚓💚💛
Lana Nelius goes above and beyond for our students and staff every single day. As a 4th grade math and science teacher and ESL support educator, she collaborates, leads, and steps in wherever she’s needed. From sponsoring the high school Bass Fishing Club to serving on the Sunshine and District Advisory Committees, Lana’s positivity, teamwork, and dedication make her a true Golden Crewmate. 🌟
