Killeen Independent School District is proud to recognize 35 students who have earned the prestigious Texas Theatre Scholar Distinction for the 2025–2026 school year.
The Texas Theatre Scholar Award, presented by Texas Thespians, honors high school theatre students who demonstrate exceptional academic achievement while actively participating in their school’s theatre program.
“Earning this distinction reflects a deep commitment to both artistic growth and academic excellence. Students must maintain strong academic performance while meeting the rigorous demands of theatre,” said Morganne Davies, Killeen ISD Director of Fine Arts. “Their success is made possible by motivated students and the consistent guidance of theatre educators who support high expectations in the classroom and on the stage. These students demonstrate discipline, perseverance, and pride in their work, and we are proud to recognize their achievements and the impact of arts education on overall student success.”
Students recognized from Ellison High School include Victoria Bennett, Tavin Bunes, Amber Gaguplo, Sasha Lauderdale, Izabella Lopez, Justin Mages, Peyton McGuire, Jadeyn Monroe and Tatiana White.
Students recognized from Chaparral High School include Alexandra Allison, Kaya Arwood, Isabella Arroyo, Noel Basman, Aiyana Bland, Juliana Bollay, Lameika Boulding, Anaiah Chamberlain, Lillyann Clement, Julyssa Davalos, Kaitlyn Dooley, Sha’Ve Dotson, Jade Gile, Marlee Luther, Brigham McClelland, Armie Melton, Reagan Melton, Ava Morgan, Isabella Murray, Hannah Newson, Myron Noll, Addison O’Neal, Ariyan Smith, Liliana Williams, Lacie Yantis and Riley Yurush.
To earn the Texas Theatre Scholar designation, students must be enrolled in school, remain in good standing within their campus theatre department and actively participate in theatrical productions. Recipients must maintain a minimum cumulative grade point average of 3.0 on a 4.0 scale, meet any additional local criteria established by their theatre program and demonstrate character and conduct that reflect positively on their school and community.
Texas Thespians is a statewide organization that supports theatre education and recognizes students who excel academically while contributing meaningfully to their school theatre programs.
For more information about Texas Thespians and the Texas Theatre Scholar Award, visit www.texasthespians.org.