Leverett’s Chapel Independent School District

🌟 It's Pre-K and Kindergarten roundup week! From today until Friday, April 11th, come pick up an application for your child who will be in Pre-K or Kindergarten next school year. 📚✨ If your child is currently enrolled in Pre-K, they'll be sent home with a packet for Kindergarten enrollment. Have any questions? Don't hesitate to reach out to DeAnn Thrash at 903-834-3181 or email dthrash@leverettschapelisd.net.

LC Community- Thank You to Gabriel/Jordan Chevrolet We want to give a sincere thank you to Gabriel /Jordan Chevrolet for their generous $500 donation to the Leverett’s Chapel Class of 2025 Project Graduation. Their support means a lot to our students and helps make this event possible. A special thanks to James Take, General Manager, for his leadership and commitment to the community. We also appreciate the entire team at Gabriel/Jordan Chevrolet for standing behind our school: Tim Capps, Scott Jordan, James Take, Tracy Jones, Katie Grant, Ronnie Barfield, Alex Hernandez, Daphane Perry, Janet Acosta, Steven Smith, Mike Kizer, Colby Lambright, Andrew Mitchell, Terran Bynum, and Tina Stracener—thank you all. We also want to recognize Jenna Kirk, one of our own at Leverett’s Chapel, for the time and effort she’s put into making this happen. She’s been a huge part of getting this support for our seniors. If you’re looking for a dealership that truly cares about the community, we highly recommend Gabriel/Jordan Chevrolet in Henderson. They’re not just in the business of selling cars—they’re in the business of showing up for their neighbors. You can learn more about them on their Facebook page: Gabriel/Jordan Chevrolet Facebook https://www.facebook.com/GabrielJordanChevy/ Go Lions!

🌟 Join me, Mr. Everett, this Friday, April 11th, for coffee! ☕ This is a fantastic opportunity for all community members to ask questions, share thoughts, and discuss ideas that impact our schools and students.

The 2025 Leverett's Chapel Junior-Senior Prom will be held on Saturday, May 3, 2025 at 7pm. Tickets may be purchased in the high school office. Tickets are $30 a person or $50 per couple. If your date does not attend Leverett's Chapel, a "Guest Permission Form" may be picked up in the high school office. Ticket money and guest forms are due back no later than April 30th.

LC Community, Every Friday, I send a message to our incredible staff to recognize their hard work and dedication—but today, I felt compelled to share a message with you, our Leverett’s Chapel community. Our school doesn’t survive without the support, involvement, and heart of the people around it. From parents and grandparents to alumni, local businesses, and neighbors—you are the foundation that keeps LC strong. Whether it’s showing up to a game, helping with a fundraiser, volunteering your time, or simply encouraging a student or staff member, your impact is felt every single day. What we do inside the classrooms is only possible because of the support outside of them. So thank you—for believing in us, for backing us, and for continuing to stand with Leverett’s Chapel. Go Lions!

🌼 Spring Testing is just around the corner! 🌼 Parents, your support is crucial for our students’ success! Please remember: ✅ Ensure your child is on time and present for testing days. ✅ A good night's rest is essential—let's help them recharge! 💤 ✅ Don’t forget to pack their water bottles! 💧 Let’s encourage our students to do their best; they've been preparing all year!

Tonight's baseball game at Avery has been cancelled due to weather. Thank you for your understanding.

LC Community- Happy National School Librarian Day! Today, Friday, April 4th, we celebrate Mrs. Julia Espinosa, our outstanding school librarian at Leverett's Chapel! Mrs. Julia is the heart of our library—hardworking, kind, and always here for the kids. Whether it's helping students find the perfect book, supporting teachers, or creating a welcoming space to learn and grow, she does it all with a smile. Thank you, Mrs. Julia, for everything you do. LCISD is fortunate to have you! Go Lions!

LC Community- LC Alumni Spotlight: Dr. Paul Thompson – A True Leader, A Lifelong Friend This one is special for me. I’ve had the honor of knowing Dr. Paul Thompson for over 20 years, and I can say without hesitation—he is one of the most genuine, kind-hearted, and respected individuals I’ve ever met. Though soft-spoken, Dr. Thompson commands attention and admiration whenever he walks into a room. His humility, integrity, and dedication to service are the kind of qualities we hope to instill in every student who walks through the doors of Leverett’s Chapel ISD. Dr. Thompson graduated from Leverett’s Chapel in 1987, and the foundation built here helped launch a life filled with academic achievement, professional leadership, and community service. I am incredibly proud of all he has accomplished, and I’m even more thankful to call him a friend. Academic Excellence After graduating from LC, Paul began his academic journey at Kilgore College, where he served as vice president of his freshman class, was active in the student senate, and earned a debate scholarship. He went on to complete an Associate’s degree, then earned both a Bachelor of Science and a Master of Science in Criminal Justice, and later a Doctor of Management in Organizational Development and Change from Colorado Technical University. He’s published a dissertation, several articles, and authored two books. He has presented and lectured across the country and continues to share his knowledge and leadership in every setting. A Career Committed to Service and Safety Currently, Dr. Thompson serves as the Senior School Safety Agent (Director IV) at the Texas Education Agency – Office of Safety and Security, overseeing 185 school districts and charter systems representing nearly 1,000 campuses. Over his more than 30-year career as a Texas Peace Officer, he’s served as patrol supervisor, criminal investigator, and police chief for two municipalities and one school district. His experience includes time as a Safety Coordinator at Region 7 ESC, and he holds multiple licenses and certifications, including Texas Master Peace Officer and Certified School Business Specialist through TASBO. Teaching and Leadership Dr. Thompson has taught as an adjunct professor at both Kilgore College (2017–2019) and the University of Texas at Tyler (2018–present). His leadership has also extended to professional associations: President of the Texas Police Association (2018–19) President of the East Texas Police Chief Association (2013) Member of numerous law enforcement and professional organizations at the state and national level He’s also been a delegate to the John Ben Shepperd Public Leadership Forum, a panelist for the Texas Supreme Court’s Beyond the Bench Program, and a speaker and mentor to countless law enforcement professionals. Faith, Family, and Community Beyond his professional life, Dr. Thompson has dedicated years to pastoral leadership, serving as pastor of the Center of Hope Fellowship and Faith Christian Center in Kilgore, Texas. He has also contributed through non-profit leadership as Board President of Touching Lives Enrichment Center CDC (2018–2023) and serves as the owner of Thompson Dynamic Solutions, LLC, a business offering leadership and consulting services. A Legacy That Inspires Dr. Thompson’s story reminds us that a small school can produce great leaders. Leverett’s Chapel played a role in shaping who he is today, and his accomplishments reflect the power of perseverance, faith, and hard work. He is proof that it’s not where you start—it’s where you’re headed. Dr. Paul Thompson, we are incredibly proud of you and honored to call you part of the LC family. Thank you for your lifelong commitment to education, safety, service, and leadership. You are truly a shining example for our current students to look up to. Go Lions! #LC4Life

LC Community- I want to share with everyone that Junior High just achieved back-to-back perfect attendance on Tuesday and Wednesday of this week! Thank you to all JH students, parents, and staff for making it happen. This achievement is a testament to everyone’s commitment and teamwork. Beyond that immediate success, I’m proud to share how each campus’ attendance rates have improved from last year to this year (as of now). Below is a quick look at the numbers: High School Last Year (2023–2024): 92.56% This Year (2024–2025): 95.27% Junior High Last Year: 95.29% This Year: 96.25% Elementary Last Year: ~92.77% This Year: ~96.18% Overall District Attendance Last Year: 93.30% This Year: 95.92% These figures show we’re moving in the right direction across the entire district. Thank you, students, parents, and staff for helping us reach these milestones. It’s a fantastic reminder of what we can achieve by working together. Congratulations again to our Junior High on two straight perfect-attendance days, and let’s keep up the great work everywhere in Leverett’s Chapel ISD! Go Lions!

I know I have some paraprofessionals in my immediate family and in my school family. Do not think that your work ever goes unnoticed. We know how much you care for our school and our kids. We couldn't do it without all of you. One purpose, One team. LION PRIDE!

LC Community – I Want Your Help! I recently spotlighted one of our own—Matthew Morris, a 2013 LC graduate who’s making a big impact through his military service. His story is just one of many that show what we already know: it’s not where you start, it’s where you’re headed. At Leverett’s Chapel, we may be a small school, but our alumni are doing big things out in the world—and I want to hear more of those stories. I’m inviting you to be part of our LC Alumni Spotlight series. Help us highlight the incredible lives and accomplishments of our former students. This isn’t just about college degrees or job titles—it’s about character, hard work, and how far someone has come. Parents, don’t be shy. Brag on your kids. LC grads, don’t be modest. We want to hear what you’ve been up to. Community members, nominate someone you know who deserves recognition. Tag them in the comments, send me their name and contact information, or reach out to me directly to share their story. You can email me at meverett@leverettschapelisd.net or call/text my personal cell at 903-808-0182. And don’t think this is just for recent graduates—I want to go as far back in our LC history as we can. Whether someone graduated 2 years ago or 40 years ago, their story matters and deserves to be told. These spotlights are not only about recognizing the great things our alumni are doing—they’re also meant to inspire the next generation of LC students. Stories like these remind them that where you come from doesn’t define you—it’s where you’re going that counts. Small school. Big dreams. Lifelong family. Let’s share the pride. Let’s tell the stories. Please share this with our LC Community pages and Alumni pages. I hope I get flooded with nominations! Go Lions!

LC Community- We’re proud to share some great news—our Junior High had perfect attendance yesterday. Every student was present and accounted for. This isn’t just a number. It reflects commitment—from our students, families, and staff. It shows that showing up matters here and that we’re all leaning in together toward something better. In a world where distractions are everywhere, full attendance is a big deal. Yesterday, our students showed up. And that says a lot about the culture we’re building. Let’s keep it going. Go Lions!

First off, I would like to thank everyone for their patience with our track season. You were all very understanding with the schedule changes, and making sure our kids and coaches were supported. With that being said, I have some results from the last couple of days. Boys were District Runners-Up (2nd)100M - Trent Wheat (2nd), Jaggar Ward (1st)200M - Jaggar Ward (1st)400M - Adrian Harrison (3rd), DeWaylon Brown (6th)4x100M Relay - Evan Lucas, Trent Wheat, DeWaylon Brown, Jaggar Ward (1st)4x200M Relay - Evan Lucas, Trent Wheat, Adrian Harrison, DeWaylon Brown (2nd)Long Jump - Jaggar Ward (3rd), Dewaylon Brown (5th)Shot Put - Keaton Geter (4th), Carson Ford (2nd), Trent Wheat (1st)Discus - Carson Ford (5th)Triple Jump - DeWaylon Brown (2nd)These results mean that Trent Wheat, Evan Lucas, Adrian Harrison, Carson Ford, DeWaylon Brown, Keaton Geter, and Jaggar Ward have qualified for Area competition next week. Girls were District Runners-Up (2nd)100M - Alison Riley (4th), Deysi Perez (6th)200M - Deysi Perez (6th)800M - Layla Neumeister (4th)100Hurdles - Lacie Hayes (2nd)300Hurdles - Lacie Hayes (2nd)4x100M Relay - Alison Riley, Alyvia Page, Brynleigh Seymore, Deysi Perez (1st)4x200M Relay - Alison Riley, Alyvia Page, Brynleigh Seymore, Maria Contreras (3rd)4x400M Relay -  Khloe Clark, Brynleigh Seymore, Layla Neumeister, Maria Contreras (3rd)Long Jump - Alison Riley (2nd), Brynleigh Seymore (3rd)Shot Put - Palynn Butler (6th)Discus - Palynn Butler (4th), Itzel Mata (6th)Triple Jump - Chloe Clark (3rd)High Jump - Layla Neumeister (2nd), Lacie Hayes (1st)Pole Vault - Lacie Hayes (1st)These results mean that Alison Riley, Layla Neumeister, Lacie Hayes, Alyvia Page, Brynleigh Seymore, Deysi Perez, Maria Contreras, Palynn Butler, and Khloe Clark have qualified for Area competition next week. We will send out specifics for the Area meet as soon as they are sent to us.Again, thank you for helping make this happen and congratulations to all of our athletes and their coaches on their hard work.

LC Community- Today, in the Varsity Division at the University Interscholastic League (UIL) Region 21 1A, 2A, 3A Band – Concert & Sight-Reading Evaluation in Troup, the LC Band delivered a strong performance. The band earned a Division II (Excellent) rating on stage and a Division I (Superior) rating in sight-reading. Concert Program: Union March Night Fury Dark Star Sight-Reading Selection: March of the Monarchy For context, the UIL evaluation challenges bands in two categories: Concert Performance – Bands perform three prepared pieces for a panel of judges. Sight-Reading – Bands are given a brand-new piece of music, just a few minutes to study it, and then perform it with no rehearsal. A Superior rating in sight-reading reflects strong musicianship and quick thinking under pressure. The Excellent stage performance shows the band’s growth and preparation over the year. Great job, LC Band! Go Lions!

LC Community- Congratulations to our High School UIL Academic Team on their outstanding performance at last week’s District meet in Avery! We increased our overall score from 127 points last year to 140 points this year, earning a 4th-place finish as a school. Here are some of the highlights from this remarkable achievement: New Events Added This Year Current Issues & Events: Ethan Vaden, 11th place Spelling: Evan Lucas, 6th place; Zoe Lucas, 10th place Science: Layla Neumeister, 7th place and 2nd place in the Biology sub-contest Social Studies: Layla Neumeister, 3rd place; Brandon Cedillo, 7th place; Trent Wheat, 17th place; Keaton Geter, 19th place; overall Social Studies Team, 2nd place Returning Events Journalism Team: District Champions for the second year in a row (113 total points; outscored the 2nd place team by 29 points) Copy Editing: Kaiven Quinalty, 3rd place; Brynleigh Seymour, 4th place Editorial Writing: Itzel Mata, District Champion (2nd year in a row); Crystal Castro, 2nd place Feature Writing: Itzel Mata, District Champion (2nd year in a row); Bella Hodges, 3rd place; Samantha Santana, 5th place News Writing: De’Waylon Brown, District Champion (2nd year in a row); Areli Castillo, 2nd place Headline Writing: De’Waylon Brown, 3rd place Advancing to Regionals (April 25–26 at Plano ISD) De’Waylon Brown (News & Headline Writing) Areli Castillo (News Writing) Crystal Castro (Editorial Writing) Bella Hodges (Feature Writing) Itzel Mata (Editorial & Feature Writing) Layla Neumeister (Social Studies) Kaiven Quinalty (Copy Editing) We are incredibly proud of all our participants for their hard work and dedication, and we look forward to seeing our seven Regional qualifiers showcase their talents next month. Go Lions!

OK Lions, this will be lengthy, but stay with me. With the onset of bad weather next week from Wed-Sat, our track district has been forced to make some changes. This will affect logistics of track, band, and baseball. Here is what is expected the next few days: Monday: All track will travel to Union Hill for preliminary events and field events. It will take place in the afternoon at 1 pm. We will leave the school at 11 am. Tuesday: Band will perform as usual. At the completion, we will have a bus waiting outside to pick up track students and transport them back to the school to put their stuff away, and get ready for track, load up, and head to Union Hill for all finals events. The baseball game on Tuesday at LC vs Union Hill has been moved to the following Tuesday, 4/8 at 4 pm. This should allow no loss on games, especially at home. I understand it is not the most convenient by any stretch, but necessary when making sure our kids get to compete in everything that they want. I apologize for springing this upon you all so late in the game, but it could not be helped. I only pray it does not change again. Thank you and GO LIONS!

Due to weather and field conditions, the baseball game at Miller Grove tomorrow at 1:00 p.m. has been canceled.

LC Community- Next week is the final week of our Band Fundraiser, which closes on Friday, April 4. If you haven’t had a chance to contribute yet, please visit the link below. Every donation makes a difference for our students: https://secure.givelively.org/donate/75-6001953/leverett-s-chapel-isd-band-fundraiser Thank you for your continued support—please share with friends and family. Go Lions!

LC Community- Best of Luck to Our UIL Academic Team! Our students are headed to Avery for the UIL District Meet, and we couldn’t be prouder. You’ve worked hard and prepared well, and now it’s time to show what you can do. Do your best—because we already know that your best is outstanding. Competing Students: De'Waylon Brown – HW, NW Areli Castillo – NW Crystal Castro – EDIT Brandon Cedillo – SOCS Keaton Geter – SOCS Bella Hodges – EDIT, FW, HW Evan Lucas – CURR, SPEL Zoe Lucas – CURR, SPEL Itzel Mata – CE, EDIT, FW, NW Layla Neumeister – SCI, SOCS Bentley Quinalty – SPEL Kaiven Quinalty – CE, HW, NS Jacoby Riley – CURR, SPEL Samantha Santana – FW Brynleigh Seymour – CE, EDIT Ethan Vaden – CURR Trenton Wheat – SOCS Go Lions!