Killeen ISD was named a Texas Way District of Distinction for the 2025-2026 school year, an honor that recognizes the district’s commitment to character, sportsmanship and leadership across its athletic programs.
The recognition was announced Wednesday during the Texas High School Athletic Directors Association’s (THSADA) annual meeting. Killeen ISD was one of just 39 districts statewide to earn the distinction. Twenty-one other districts received honorable mention.
The award highlights and applauds a yearlong, focused, intentional effort by KISD athletic administrators, coaches and student-athletes to uphold high standards both on and off the field.
“We are honored to be recognized as a District of Distinction through The Texas Way. Thank you to our students, coaches, and families for embracing the importance of sportsmanship,” KISD Executive Director for Girls Athletics Latisha Williams said. “This recognition belongs to our entire athletic community as we continue to develop excellence and positive experiences through sport.”
The Texas Way is a statewide initiative developed by THSADA, the Texas High School Coaches Association and 2Words Character Development. The campaign emphasizes three core pillars: respect for others, control of self and the spirit of competition.
To qualify for the District of Distinction designation, KISD athletics met a series of benchmarks, including character development, sportsmanship and community service, among other criteria.
“Learning that Killeen ISD was recognized as a District of Distinction is very rewarding,” KISD Executive Director for Boys Athletics Matt Carroll said. “A tremendous amount of credit goes to our coaches and student-athletes across the district. This recognition is the result of a collective commitment to doing things the right way. We set a goal a year ago to earn a place on this prestigious list, and I’m proud to say we achieved it.”
The Texas Way in Killeen ISD: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=yRo-kj7lCAI
To view the full list of honorees, click here.