Melissa ISD came together for the 2026 Convocation, centered on this year’s theme: PACE. Superintendent Keith Murphy encouraged staff to begin the school year with gratitude and to intentionally make a positive impact in the lives of others. Deputy Superintendent Kim Boedeker reflected on the importance of strength, stability, and endurance as Melissa ISD continues to move forward with its vision, and staff heard an inspiring keynote message from Dr. Rodney Watson about the lasting difference educators make in the lives of students every day.
The celebration honored outstanding members of Team Melissa whose work and dedication make a lasting impact on students and the community. This included recipients of the Cardinal Impact Awards, which recognize teachers who contribute significantly to student success through exceptional achievement or notable annual growth, and the Melissa Education Foundation Teacher Grants. We also celebrated our Support Staff, Teachers of the Year, and Rookie Teachers of the Year.
Join us in celebrating our 2025-2026 Team Melissa awardees.
Support Staff Awards:
Custodian: Sergio Sanchez
Maintenance & Operations: James Vaughn & Renee Heinz
Paraprofessional: Magen Williams
Police: Katie Jo Barton
Technology: Kamron White
Transportation: Rianne Boatman
Teachers of the Year:
Harry McKillop Elementary: Mary Ashley Brown
Highland Elementary: Michelle Ycaza
North Creek Elementary: Randi Anderson
Sumeer Elementary: Lhauren Spann
Willow Wood Elementary: Brandon Turney
Sixth Grade Center: Colby McKay
East Cardinal Middle School: Kristi Brakebill
Melissa High School: Cathy Harris
District Teacher of the Year: Kelley Pitzer
We would like to thank the Melissa Chamber of Commerce and our generous sponsors for making these recognitions possible: First United, Maria’s, Farmers Insurance, Melissa Park Village, PBK, Adon Complete, Kay Marie, Chick-Fil-A, Starbucks, Complete Supply, Exodus Mechanical, Community National, Texas Republic Bank, Walmart, Redden Concrete Inc., Provision Automotive, Lone Star Furnishings, Texas Health Resources, Enviromatic Systems, Merit Roofing Systems Inc., Big Brothers Pest Control & Termite LLC, Amrize, CWD, U.S. Energy, and Roper’s Wrecker Service.
Team Melissa is prepared to welcome students back for another remarkable school year.