Leverett’s Chapel Independent School District

LC Community- Celebrating Our Newest NHS Inductees We’re proud to recognize our newest members of the National Honor Society: Helen Harrison, Adrian Harrison, Jaggar Ward, and Makenzie Hayes. These students have demonstrated the four pillars of NHS—scholarship, leadership, service, and character—and were formally inducted at last night’s ceremony. The National Honor Society is one of the most respected academic organizations in the country. Induction is more than just a recognition of strong grades—it’s a testament to a student’s integrity, commitment to their community, and ability to lead by example. Please join us in celebrating Helen, Adrian, Jaggar, and Makenzie. We’re proud of what they’ve accomplished and excited to see how they’ll continue to lead. —Small School Big Dreams Bold Futures— Go Lions!

LC Community- Happy National School Nurse Day! Today we want to give a huge shoutout to Nurse Amy, who takes care of the heart, health, and peace of mind of so many at Leverett’s Chapel ISD. Whether it’s a headache, a scraped knee, a boo-boo needing a Band-Aid, or a wet paper towel to cool off after P.E.—Nurse Amy is always there. But it’s more than that. Sometimes, it’s the kind words she shares to help a student “make it” until lunch before we call Mom or Dad. Other times, it’s the calm she brings to a worried parent or a nervous child. Thank you, Nurse Amy, for being a steady and compassionate presence in our school family. Your work matters more than you know—and we appreciate you so much! Small school. Big dreams. Bold futures. Go Lions!

LC Community- Severe weather has moved through, and although we’re still seeing heavy downpours, it is now safe to pick up your children if you need to. Our staff will assist with dismissals and ensure students reach you safely. Thank you for your patience and understanding. Please drive with caution in the rain. Stay safe, Matthew L. Everett Go Lions!

LC Community- We want to assure you that Leverett’s Chapel ISD is closely monitoring the tornado warnings issued for southwestern Smith County. Our highest priority is the safety and well-being of your children, and we are prepared to move students and staff to our designated tornado-safe zones at the first indication of severe weather. Please do not attempt to pick up your children at this time. Allow us to follow our safety procedures without delay so that we can ensure everyone is secured in the safest possible location. We will keep you updated via our website and social media channels. Thank you for your patience and trust in LCISD’s emergency protocols. Stay safe and thank you for your cooperation, Matthew L. Everett

LC Community- To all of our incredible teachers at Leverett’s Chapel ISD: This week—and every week—we celebrate you. Your dedication to guiding, challenging, and encouraging our students is at the very heart of their success. As Brad Henry so aptly said, “A good teacher can inspire hope, ignite the imagination, and instill a love of learning.” Thank you for going above and beyond—designing creative lessons, offering extra help, cheering on our Lions, and caring for each child as if they were your own. Your passion and hard work light the way for our students’ big dreams and bold futures. We’d also like to extend a thank you to American State Bank (www.americanstatebank.com) for sponsoring this morning’s breakfast. Their steadfast commitment to our community and local schools helps fuel the great work you do every day! Go Lions!

Reminder: Join us this Thursday, May 8th at 6 PM for our Spring Band Concert! 🎺🎉 It's a fantastic opportunity to enjoy some wonderful music and support our talented students.

LC Community- LC Alumni Spotlight: Grayson Bathke – Small School. Big Dreams. A Life of Service in Blue. Every once in a while, a student comes along who reminds us exactly why small schools matter. Grayson Bathke, a proud Leverett’s Chapel Class of 2018 graduate (Salutatorian), is one of those students. What began as a childhood in the heart of a tight-knit community has grown into a life of purpose, integrity, and service. Grayson represents everything we mean when we say: “It’s not where you start—it’s where you’re going.” “Small school. Big dreams.” After graduating from LC, Grayson began his college journey at Texas A&M University in 2018, majoring in Rangeland and Ecology Management. But like so many during the pandemic, Grayson’s path took an unexpected turn. At age 21, with classes going fully online, he knew he needed something more. He applied to the Bryan Police Department, was hired, and began police academy training—a move that would define his career. Grayson completed Field Training and began working patrol on swing shift (3 PM–3 AM) before transitioning to the night shift, where he quickly found himself facing the realities of modern policing. From routine calls to officer-involved shootings, he’s seen it all—and stayed committed to the calling. He earned a coveted spot on his department’s tactical team, participating in dozens of high-risk search warrants and apprehensions, and he continues to grow his professional skillset through advanced certifications in: • ARIDE (Advanced Recognition of Impaired Driving and Enforcement) • IPMBA (Advanced Bicycle Patrol) • Cognitive Interview and Detecting Deception • And many more In 2024, Grayson will take on a leadership role as a Field Training Officer, mentoring the next generation of academy graduates. But through all the challenges of law enforcement, Grayson’s foundation remains steady: his family and his roots. Despite the chaos of a night-shift schedule, Grayson prioritizes time with his loved ones. That time, he says, keeps him grounded and reminds him of where he came from—and why it all matters. In a recent message, Grayson wrote: “I just hope you and the other administrators and staff know how appreciative I am of each and every one of y’all. Looking back now from the perspective of a young man makes me really wish I would have done more to show the positive impact you and the staff made on each and every one that walked those halls.” He also reflected on how Leverett’s Chapel helped build the man he is today: “The teamwork and character development that came through sports and education 100 percent transferred to my professional and personal life and has allowed me to succeed.” Grayson is a product of what makes Leverett’s Chapel special—a small school where students are known, supported, challenged, and inspired. His journey from the Black and Gold to the badge is proof that greatness doesn’t depend on the size of your school—it depends on the size of your heart, your goals, and your willingness to chase them. Grayson, we’re proud of you. Your courage, humility, and strength speak volumes about your character—and about the power of small-town schools raising big-hearted leaders. To our LC community—please share this spotlight and tag other LC alumni doing big things. Let’s continue telling the stories that prove small schools can launch bold futures. Know someone who should be featured next? Email: meverett@leverettschapelisd.net Cell: 903-808-0182 Small school. Black and Gold. Big dreams. Bold futures. It’s not where you start—it’s where you’re going. Go Lions!

LC Community- LC Alumni Spotlight: Gracie Bathke – Big Dreams, Big Heart, and Black & Gold Pride That Never Fades Valedictorian | Class of 2018 Every once in a while, you get to witness something special at a small school like Leverett’s Chapel. For the Class of 2018, that “something special” came in the form of Gracie and Grayson Bathke—twin siblings who pushed each other every step of the way, not just as classmates, but as friendly competitors. In one of the closest Valedictorian-Salutatorian races in recent LC history, Gracie earned the honor of Valedictorian, while her twin brother Grayson proudly claimed Salutatorian. Their academic rivalry was as spirited as it was supportive—always pushing each other to be better, in class, on the field, and beyond. That drive to excel didn’t stop at graduation. Gracie went on to attend Texas A&M University, where she graduated in December 2023 with a Bachelor of Arts in Political Science. While at A&M, she took on a part-time job leasing apartments at the complex where she lived—what started as a side job soon became her career calling. She worked her way up from Leasing Agent to Leasing Manager at Aspire College Station, all while finishing her degree. After graduation, she accepted a transfer to Huntsville, Texas, and was soon promoted to Assistant General Manager—a role she currently holds. Gracie now lives in Huntsville with her dog, Tucker, and her boyfriend, J.W., a dedicated officer with the Huntsville Police Department. Her story, like her brother’s, is proof that LC Lions know how to rise—no matter where life takes them. “Eighteen-year-old me who walked the same halls you all do would never have imagined I’d be where I am today. But by the grace of God, hard work, and many tears, I’ve made it almost 26 circles around the sun.” Gracie credits much of her growth to her time at LC. “Whether it was in the classroom, on the volleyball court, or during FFA competitions—those lessons shaped me. They guided me through college and into the real world.” And though her address may have changed, her heart hasn’t. “LC stays in my heart and mind, and trips down memory lane are taken often. I even showed up to work dressed in my old LC cheerleading uniform this Halloween!” Gracie’s story reminds us that “small school” doesn’t mean small ambition. It means strong foundations, tight-knit support, and the freedom to dream big—and she has done exactly that. From Valedictorian to business leader, she’s proof that it’s not where you start—it’s where you’re going. Gracie, we’re proud of who you are and where you’re headed. Your LC family is cheering you on every step of the way. To the LC community—please share this spotlight and tag other LC alumni doing great things. Let’s keep celebrating the Black and Gold legacy. Know someone who should be featured next? Email: meverett@leverettschapelisd.net Cell: 903-808-0182 Small school. Black and Gold. Big dreams. Bold futures. It’s not where you start—it’s where you’re going. Go Lions!

Time is running out, and we need YOUR help! Help us raise money for our seniors by donating money to duct tape someone to the wall!! Currently, Mr. Everett is in the lead, followed closely by Coach Hughes! Donations will be accepted until Friday, May 16th!

LC Community- State Track Meet Send-Off for Trent Wheat Today, we had the honor of sending off senior Trent Wheat as he heads to Austin to compete in the UIL State Track & Field Meet in the Shot Put. Trent is scheduled to compete tomorrow (Saturday) at 2:00 p.m., pending any changes due to weather. We are incredibly proud of the season Trent has had and the young man he continues to be—on and off the field. He’s worked hard, stayed focused, and earned his place at the state level. Best of luck tomorrow, Trent. We’re all behind you. Travel safe, and go represent Leverett's Chapel with pride. Go Lions!

LC Community- Today, we’re shining the spotlight on our very own Lunch Heroes—Debbie Fidler, our Cafeteria Manager & Child Nutrition Director, along with Amanda Smith and Maureen Salazar. From sausage-and-biscuit mornings to “crispito day” treats, these smiling faces work tirelessly to serve up nutritious meals and genuine kindness to every Lion in Leverett’s Chapel ISD. Debbie, Amanda, and Maureen—your dedication fuels our students’ bodies and spirits. Whether it’s swinging into action before dawn or patiently refilling that last tray, you make every lunch line feel a little brighter and every meal a little more special. Small school, big dreams—powered by big hearts and great meals. Thank you for all you do today and every day to nourish our LC family! Go Lions!

LC Community- At Leverett’s Chapel, we are proud to be a small school with big dreams, and it shows in the way our entire community—parents, staff, and supporters—rallies around our students. Whether it’s in the classroom, on the field, or through everyday encouragement, each of you plays a vital role in helping our kids move toward bold futures. As we approach the finish line, we’re reminded that education is not just a requirement—it’s a privilege. The chance to guide and impact young lives isn’t something we take for granted. And as we always say, it’s not where you start—it’s where you’re going. Your continued support helps ensure that every student in LC is moving forward with purpose, confidence, and opportunity. Let’s finish this school year strong—with focus, heart, and unity. Thank you for believing in our mission, our staff, and most importantly, our students. Have a safe and relaxing weekend. We will see everyone on Tuesday! Go Lions!

LC Community- Today is National School Principals Day, and I want to recognize the outstanding leadership and dedication of our two principals, Dr. Nikki Saxton and Mr. Wayne Borden. Your steady guidance, and genuine care for every student and staff member shape the heart of our district. I know the role comes with long hours, tough decisions, and constant demands—and yet you both show up each day ready to support, encourage, and inspire. Thank you for everything you do to make our schools safe, welcoming, and focused on success. We’re fortunate to have you steering our campuses. Small school. Big dreams. Bold futures. Go Lions!

LC Community- Great Job, Leverett’s Chapel ISD! We had an outstanding attendance day yesterday with only 4 students absent, and our Junior High even achieved perfect attendance! Remember, attendance matters—it’s the foundation for success. In a small school with big dreams, every day counts. Let's continue to show up and make the most of each opportunity to learn and grow! Go Lions!

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LC Community- We’re proud to recognize the Leverett’s Chapel Class of 2025. This group has shown what it means to represent Leverett’s Chapel — and their families — with pride, heart, and passion. They’ve made a real difference here, and they’ve set an example for those who will follow. We appreciate everything they’ve done for our school and our community. Graduation Friday, May 23, 7:00 PM Leverett’s Chapel Auditorium We can’t wait to celebrate all they’ve accomplished — and everything that’s still ahead. Small School. Big Dreams. Bold Futures. It’s not where you start—it’s where you’re going. Go Lions! P.S. Thank you, Ms. Carmen for the bulletin board!

LC Community- We are proud to share the outstanding results from the Regional UIL Academics Meet held in Plano on April 26, 2025. Our Journalism team finished 6th overall, a major step forward from last year's 11th place finish. Representing our school with pride were De'Waylon Brown, Areli Castillo, Bella Hodges, Itzel Mata, and Kaiven Quinalty. Special shoutout goes to De'Waylon Brown, who placed 5th in Headline Writing, and to Itzel Mata, who placed 5th in Editorial Writing and 3rd in Feature Writing. With her 3rd place finish, Itzel Mata has earned a spot at the State Meet in Austin this May. We are incredibly proud of her and excited to see her represent Leverett’s Chapel at the state level. Congratulations, Itzel! We also applaud Layla Neumeister for representing our school in Social Studies. Overall, LCHS finished 22nd out of 55 schools—an incredible improvement from last year's 32nd place. This reflects the hard work and dedication of our students. We are deeply grateful to Ms. Tracey Amaya, our UIL Academic Coordinator and High School English Teacher, for her tireless commitment to the success of our students. Her leadership and encouragement have made a real difference. Congratulations to all of our UIL Academic Team members. Your school community is proud of you. Go Lions!

LC Community- Small school. Big dreams. Bold futures. We are excited to recognize Ethan Kirk, the Salutatorian for the Class of 2025, with an impressive 92.8 GPA! Ethan has been a standout student-athlete, dedicating four years to Football, AG, and Baseball, while also participating in Basketball and Track. Outside of school, he enjoys spending time at the gym, focusing on fitness and discipline. Among his proudest achievements is his induction into the National Honor Society, reflecting his commitment to both academics and leadership. Ethan offers this advice to underclassmen: "Do not rush growing up; enjoy school because it goes by fast." Ethan’s journey is just beginning — he plans to attend Texas A&M University to study Accounting and continue building his bold future. It’s not where you start — it’s where you’re going. Congratulations, Ethan! We are so proud of your accomplishments! Go Lions!