The wait is over! 🎉 Take a moment to review the 2026-2027 calendar and mark those important dates now… your future self will thank you! 📅
The staff at East Chambers Junior High would like to give special thanks to Jay and Morgan Rayburn for the delicious taco soup, the ECHS Culinary students for making the savory chicken spaghetti, and all other staff who donated food and desserts yesterday to feed everyone during our district UIL competition! It was a wonderful lunch, and enjoyed by all! Thank you!
⚓ Anchored in Community ⚓
It’s #211Day! When life gets a little heavy, you don’t have to carry it alone. The 211 Texas/United Way HELPLINE is available 24/7/365 to connect you with nearby resources like child care, mental health support, food assistance, and more.
Help is just a call or text away — because that’s what community is all about.
📞 Call 211
📱 Text your ZIP Code to 898211 to get started.
#AnchoredInCommunity #UWGH
Raise your hand if you're excited for Lady Bucs Basketball Playoffs! Get your playoff shirt NOW because the store closes at 10am Feb 11. https://gogandy.com/echs-gbbpl26
🍎✨ Teacher Talks Tuesday ✨🍎
This week, we’re featuring Kayleigh Courville, an 8th grade ELAR teacher and head softball coach who brings the same heart, dedication, and high expectations to both the classroom and the field. Whether she’s helping students find their voice in writing or cheering them on from the dugout, she’s all about building confidence and belief. 💚💛⚾
What is your teaching philosophy?
My teaching philosophy focuses on building meaningful, supportive, and authentic relationships with students while encouraging them to strive for success both in and out of the classroom. I believe these relationships provide the foundation for confident, capable, and successful learners. My goal is to create a classroom where students feel valued and respected, where they are comfortable taking risks, learning from mistakes, and growing both academically and personally.
What’s your favorite “lightbulb moment” you see in students?
My favorite lightbulb moment is watching students gain confidence, especially in their writing and in their enjoyment of ELAR. Many students don’t initially realize how much growth comes from consistent effort and dedication, but when that realization finally clicks, it’s so rewarding. Seeing students take pride in their work, enjoy learning, and believe in their abilities is truly special!
What do you love about teaching at ECISD?
What I love most about teaching & coaching at ECISD is the incredible sense of support that runs throughout the district. From administrators and colleagues to families and community members, there is a genuine sense of care and support. ECISD truly feels like one big family, where everyone looks out for one another. That level of encouragement and support makes a lasting impact and it’s something that goes beyond words!
📚⚾ From the classroom to the softball field, educators like Coach Courville are shaping confident learners and leaders every single day. We’re lucky to have her on our team — and yes, it’s always a GREAT DAY to be a BUC! 💚💛
#TeacherTalksTuesday #BuccaneerPride #ECISD
This week, we’re featuring Kayleigh Courville, an 8th grade ELAR teacher and head softball coach who brings the same heart, dedication, and high expectations to both the classroom and the field. Whether she’s helping students find their voice in writing or cheering them on from the dugout, she’s all about building confidence and belief. 💚💛⚾
What is your teaching philosophy?
My teaching philosophy focuses on building meaningful, supportive, and authentic relationships with students while encouraging them to strive for success both in and out of the classroom. I believe these relationships provide the foundation for confident, capable, and successful learners. My goal is to create a classroom where students feel valued and respected, where they are comfortable taking risks, learning from mistakes, and growing both academically and personally.
What’s your favorite “lightbulb moment” you see in students?
My favorite lightbulb moment is watching students gain confidence, especially in their writing and in their enjoyment of ELAR. Many students don’t initially realize how much growth comes from consistent effort and dedication, but when that realization finally clicks, it’s so rewarding. Seeing students take pride in their work, enjoy learning, and believe in their abilities is truly special!
What do you love about teaching at ECISD?
What I love most about teaching & coaching at ECISD is the incredible sense of support that runs throughout the district. From administrators and colleagues to families and community members, there is a genuine sense of care and support. ECISD truly feels like one big family, where everyone looks out for one another. That level of encouragement and support makes a lasting impact and it’s something that goes beyond words!
📚⚾ From the classroom to the softball field, educators like Coach Courville are shaping confident learners and leaders every single day. We’re lucky to have her on our team — and yes, it’s always a GREAT DAY to be a BUC! 💚💛
#TeacherTalksTuesday #BuccaneerPride #ECISD
In celebration of Career and Technical Education Month, students from several CTE programs took the spotlight at tonight’s school board meeting to share how their coursework is shaping their futures.
Mario Herrera showcased his handcrafted cutting board and walked trustees through the process behind creating it. Ray Stramecki shared how the culinary program is equipping him with hands-on skills for the food industry. Aleena Rodriguez and Luke Hampton highlighted the Teach program and the ways it’s preparing them for careers in education. Ava Bone discussed the opportunities available through Animal Science, Vet Tech, Floral Design, and Welding, emphasizing the variety of pathways CTE offers students.
Representing Treasure Trove, Danica Burrell, Kathryn Johnson, Hector Torres, and Melissa Valladares also presented on Entrepreneurship and Printing & Imaging.
We’re proud to see our students building real-world skills, gaining confidence, and stepping boldly toward what comes next. 👏
We’re sailing into a busy week, Buccaneers! ⛵️ From the classroom to competition, there’s a lot happening across the district — and this is just the highlight reel. Take a look, mark your calendars, and come out to support our students when you can. It’s a great week to be a Buc!
Happy Friday, Buccaneers! 🎉 Before everyone shifts into weekend mode, let’s take a quick look back at some of the moments that made this week shine.
From the 100th day of school celebrations to Kindness Day, Quiz Bowl, and so many great things happening in our classrooms, it’s been a full and fantastic week. We’re proud of the hard work, big hearts, and bright minds we see across our district every single day.
Now go enjoy a well-earned weekend — we’ll see you next week!
From the 100th day of school celebrations to Kindness Day, Quiz Bowl, and so many great things happening in our classrooms, it’s been a full and fantastic week. We’re proud of the hard work, big hearts, and bright minds we see across our district every single day.
Now go enjoy a well-earned weekend — we’ll see you next week!
❤️ Make this Valentine’s Day one that gives back! 💛💚
The ECISD Education Foundation is hosting Buccaneer Bingo on February 14, an evening that helps fund scholarships, classroom grants, and opportunities for our students and staff. Ticket sales are still open, and every ticket makes a difference. If you’re looking for a fun night out while supporting a great cause, this is it!
🎟️ Get all the details and secure your tickets here: https://www.ecisdef.com/events
The ECISD Education Foundation is hosting Buccaneer Bingo on February 14, an evening that helps fund scholarships, classroom grants, and opportunities for our students and staff. Ticket sales are still open, and every ticket makes a difference. If you’re looking for a fun night out while supporting a great cause, this is it!
🎟️ Get all the details and secure your tickets here: https://www.ecisdef.com/events
💚💛 Green & Gold Greats 💛💚
Congrats to Ryanne White on earning a Buccaneer Challenge Coin from Mrs. Austin — her second one this year! 🏴☠️ Always ready to lend a hand and deliver a well-timed smile, Ryanne brings steady positivity and leadership to those around her. We’re proud of you! ⚓
Congrats to Ryanne White on earning a Buccaneer Challenge Coin from Mrs. Austin — her second one this year! 🏴☠️ Always ready to lend a hand and deliver a well-timed smile, Ryanne brings steady positivity and leadership to those around her. We’re proud of you! ⚓
📣💚💛 National School Counseling Week | Feb. 2–6 💛💚📣
This year’s theme, “School Counselors Amplify Student Success,” celebrates the powerful role counselors play in helping students grow academically, socially, and emotionally while planning for their futures.
We are proud to recognize three outstanding counselors who lift up our students every single day:
⭐ Whitney Dreaden – High School Counselor
⭐ Lauren Richard – Junior High Counselor
⭐ Leslie Todd – Elementary Counselor
From first-day jitters to graduation dreams, these dedicated professionals champion student success at every level. They listen, guide, encourage, and advocate — making sure every Buccaneer has the support they need to thrive.
Join us in thanking these incredible counselors for the difference they make across our district. When counselors amplify students, amazing things happen! ⚓✨
#NSCW26 #SchoolCounselorsAmplifyStudentSuccess #ThankACounselor #BuccaneerPride
This year’s theme, “School Counselors Amplify Student Success,” celebrates the powerful role counselors play in helping students grow academically, socially, and emotionally while planning for their futures.
We are proud to recognize three outstanding counselors who lift up our students every single day:
⭐ Whitney Dreaden – High School Counselor
⭐ Lauren Richard – Junior High Counselor
⭐ Leslie Todd – Elementary Counselor
From first-day jitters to graduation dreams, these dedicated professionals champion student success at every level. They listen, guide, encourage, and advocate — making sure every Buccaneer has the support they need to thrive.
Join us in thanking these incredible counselors for the difference they make across our district. When counselors amplify students, amazing things happen! ⚓✨
#NSCW26 #SchoolCounselorsAmplifyStudentSuccess #ThankACounselor #BuccaneerPride
🏴☠️📚 Teacher Talks Tuesday 💚💛
This Teacher Talks Tuesday, we’re shining the spotlight on Ms. Gibson, one of our Junior High educators who proves that connection is the real curriculum. After 27 years in the classroom, her impact goes far beyond lessons—it’s about showing up, seeing students, and helping them believe in themselves. ⚓✨
What is your teaching philosophy?
My philosophy on teaching is simple. All children can learn. Making connections with students so we can truly understand them is at the core of helping students learn. Greeting students by name, acknowledging them in the halls, saying good morning, smiling at them, or asking about their day are small things that can be done each day. When I first started teaching, a wise older teacher told me, "You know, you could be the only person that smiles or acknowledges a student each day." 27 years later, I carry those words of wisdom with me. Making connections and brightening a student's day can open their mind so they can learn. My hope is that my students learn valuable lessons that will lead to their success in life.
What’s your favorite ‘lightbulb moment’ you see in students?
I love it when a student works really hard on something, and they finally get it. The look of accomplishment that crosses their face is amazing. Sometimes the lesson is academic, but sometimes it is a life lesson that they will carry with them long after they leave my class. It is what keeps me coming back every day.
What do you love about teaching at ECISD?
There isn't much I don't love about teaching at EC and, more specifically, the Junior High. Our kids are amazing! I love my coworkers and administration. EC is a true family that looks out for each other. I can't imagine teaching anywhere else!
💚💛 Ms. Gibson reminds us that a smile, a name, and a little kindness can change everything. That’s the heart of ECISD—and the Buccaneer way. We’re proud to have educators who make our Junior High feel like home. ⚓🏴☠️
This Teacher Talks Tuesday, we’re shining the spotlight on Ms. Gibson, one of our Junior High educators who proves that connection is the real curriculum. After 27 years in the classroom, her impact goes far beyond lessons—it’s about showing up, seeing students, and helping them believe in themselves. ⚓✨
What is your teaching philosophy?
My philosophy on teaching is simple. All children can learn. Making connections with students so we can truly understand them is at the core of helping students learn. Greeting students by name, acknowledging them in the halls, saying good morning, smiling at them, or asking about their day are small things that can be done each day. When I first started teaching, a wise older teacher told me, "You know, you could be the only person that smiles or acknowledges a student each day." 27 years later, I carry those words of wisdom with me. Making connections and brightening a student's day can open their mind so they can learn. My hope is that my students learn valuable lessons that will lead to their success in life.
What’s your favorite ‘lightbulb moment’ you see in students?
I love it when a student works really hard on something, and they finally get it. The look of accomplishment that crosses their face is amazing. Sometimes the lesson is academic, but sometimes it is a life lesson that they will carry with them long after they leave my class. It is what keeps me coming back every day.
What do you love about teaching at ECISD?
There isn't much I don't love about teaching at EC and, more specifically, the Junior High. Our kids are amazing! I love my coworkers and administration. EC is a true family that looks out for each other. I can't imagine teaching anywhere else!
💚💛 Ms. Gibson reminds us that a smile, a name, and a little kindness can change everything. That’s the heart of ECISD—and the Buccaneer way. We’re proud to have educators who make our Junior High feel like home. ⚓🏴☠️
💚 ECISD Board members hit the halls again!
See how Scott Jones, Frank Abalos, Everett Guillory & Kelley Touchet connected with classrooms during January walkthroughs 👉https://www.eastchambers.net/article/2676433
See how Scott Jones, Frank Abalos, Everett Guillory & Kelley Touchet connected with classrooms during January walkthroughs 👉https://www.eastchambers.net/article/2676433
⚓️ Sail into the week with the Buccaneers.
Here’s what’s ahead—see you out there! 💚💛
🏴☠️💚💛 Green & Gold Great💛💚🏴☠️
Big Buccaneer congratulations to Hayden Leveck for earning a Buccaneer Challenge Coin from Mrs. Dreaden!
Hayden is known for doing the right thing — even when no one’s watching and no applause is expected. That kind of character can’t be taught from a textbook — and it definitely deserves the spotlight. With a true heart of gold and a steady example for others, Hayden makes our campus better every day.
We’re proud of you, Buccaneer. Keep sailing the right course. ⚓💚💛
Big Buccaneer congratulations to Hayden Leveck for earning a Buccaneer Challenge Coin from Mrs. Dreaden!
Hayden is known for doing the right thing — even when no one’s watching and no applause is expected. That kind of character can’t be taught from a textbook — and it definitely deserves the spotlight. With a true heart of gold and a steady example for others, Hayden makes our campus better every day.
We’re proud of you, Buccaneer. Keep sailing the right course. ⚓💚💛
🎉Congratulations to former ECISD Superintendent Scott Campbell! 🎉
We are thrilled to share that Mr. Campbell has been named a 2026 Honorary Life Member of the Texas Association of School Administrators (TASA), an honor reserved for school leaders who’ve demonstrated extraordinary devotion to public education over a long and impactful career.
To qualify, inductees must show decades of service, deep involvement in education leadership, and a record of outstanding contribution, and Mr. Campbell delivered on every count.
This prestigious recognition celebrates not just years of work, but the legacy of leadership, mentorship, and tireless advocacy for students and educators across Texas.
Please join us in honoring Mr. Campbell’s service and congratulating him on this well-deserved recognition! 💚👏
🏀⚽ Teacher Talks Tuesday 🏃♀️🏃♂️
From the gym floor to the sidelines, this Teacher Talks Tuesday spotlight goes to one of our elementary PE teachers and coaches, Ms. Cossey, who knows that movement builds more than muscles—it builds confidence, character, and grit. 💪💚💛
What is your teaching philosophy?
My philosophy centers on creating a positive, inclusive environment where students of all abilities feel capable, valued, and motivated to grow. Whether working with young elementary students or competitive high school athletes, my goal is the same: to help students develop confidence, character, and a genuine appreciation for healthy, active living.
What’s your favorite ‘lightbulb moment’ you see in students?
My favorite lightbulb moment is when a student finally masters a skill we’ve been practicing for weeks. We break it down through games, activities, and daily modeling. The student may struggle at first, but they keep trying because of the supportive environment. They listen to feedback, make small adjustments, and gradually those changes add up until the skill clicks.
The best part is the reaction in the gym — the excitement from classmates and the pride on the student’s face. In that moment, it’s not just about the skill anymore. It’s a child realizing that effort, practice, and listening to feedback truly work. That’s the exact moment learning becomes empowering — and why teaching elementary PE is so rewarding.
What do you love about teaching at ECISD?
What I love most about teaching/coaching at ECISD is that your influence is visible. I’m helping shape not just athletes or students, but confident, capable people. That kind of impact is deeply fulfilling. Our community plays a giant role in making this possible. They are supportive always show up, willing to help in any way possible. I love that and you just can't find that anywhere else.
🏴☠️ This is what Buccaneer pride looks like—teaching perseverance, celebrating growth, and reminding students that effort pays off. We’re lucky to have Ms. Cosset who coaches hearts just as much as skills. 💚💛
From the gym floor to the sidelines, this Teacher Talks Tuesday spotlight goes to one of our elementary PE teachers and coaches, Ms. Cossey, who knows that movement builds more than muscles—it builds confidence, character, and grit. 💪💚💛
What is your teaching philosophy?
My philosophy centers on creating a positive, inclusive environment where students of all abilities feel capable, valued, and motivated to grow. Whether working with young elementary students or competitive high school athletes, my goal is the same: to help students develop confidence, character, and a genuine appreciation for healthy, active living.
What’s your favorite ‘lightbulb moment’ you see in students?
My favorite lightbulb moment is when a student finally masters a skill we’ve been practicing for weeks. We break it down through games, activities, and daily modeling. The student may struggle at first, but they keep trying because of the supportive environment. They listen to feedback, make small adjustments, and gradually those changes add up until the skill clicks.
The best part is the reaction in the gym — the excitement from classmates and the pride on the student’s face. In that moment, it’s not just about the skill anymore. It’s a child realizing that effort, practice, and listening to feedback truly work. That’s the exact moment learning becomes empowering — and why teaching elementary PE is so rewarding.
What do you love about teaching at ECISD?
What I love most about teaching/coaching at ECISD is that your influence is visible. I’m helping shape not just athletes or students, but confident, capable people. That kind of impact is deeply fulfilling. Our community plays a giant role in making this possible. They are supportive always show up, willing to help in any way possible. I love that and you just can't find that anywhere else.
🏴☠️ This is what Buccaneer pride looks like—teaching perseverance, celebrating growth, and reminding students that effort pays off. We’re lucky to have Ms. Cosset who coaches hearts just as much as skills. 💚💛
⚓ Learning Deck Spotlight ⚓
The kick you’ve been waiting for! 💥
Our Culinary Arts students are cooking up next-level learning—and next-level lunch. They created a No-Salt, No-Sugar Chicken Parmesan Sandwich, using only herbs and spices to bring the flavor. 🌿🔥
Judged by Mr. Heironimus and our Child Nutrition team, this student-made creation passed the ultimate test: so good, it’s going on the menu. 🏆💚💛
🍽️ Coming to the Dome next school year: the student-inspired Chicken Parm Sandwich!
Way to lead the way, Bucs! 🏴☠️⚓🍴
#LearningDeck #EastChambersCulinary #GreenAndGold #StudentMade #BuccaneerPride
The kick you’ve been waiting for! 💥
Our Culinary Arts students are cooking up next-level learning—and next-level lunch. They created a No-Salt, No-Sugar Chicken Parmesan Sandwich, using only herbs and spices to bring the flavor. 🌿🔥
Judged by Mr. Heironimus and our Child Nutrition team, this student-made creation passed the ultimate test: so good, it’s going on the menu. 🏆💚💛
🍽️ Coming to the Dome next school year: the student-inspired Chicken Parm Sandwich!
Way to lead the way, Bucs! 🏴☠️⚓🍴
#LearningDeck #EastChambersCulinary #GreenAndGold #StudentMade #BuccaneerPride
School will resume on Tuesday, January 27, at regular school hours.
Thank you for your patience and understanding during our closure due to inclement weather. We look forward to welcoming students back to campus.
Thank you for your patience and understanding during our closure due to inclement weather. We look forward to welcoming students back to campus.
Sailing into the week ⚓💚💛
Here’s what’s ahead for our Buccaneers. If any changes are needed, families will be notified through our official channels.
Here’s what’s ahead for our Buccaneers. If any changes are needed, families will be notified through our official channels.
