Nolan MS UIL champs 2026

Nolan Mustangs Repeat as KISD UIL Champs

March 1, 2026
For the second year in a row the Nolan Mustangs hoisted the Killeen ISD Middle School UIL first-place trophy in the air Saturday in the exciting conclusion to the district’s 15 th ...
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KISD Art Exhibit 2026

Annual KISD art exhibit inspires community

February 24, 2026
The quantity is amazing and the quality is shocking, but there’s even more that’s exciting and powerful about Killeen ISD’s 23 rd annual art exhibition that opened Monday and cont...
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Nolan MS advanced art class

Annual KISD art show to ignite creativity, inspiration

February 18, 2026
Igniting inspiration and creativity across multiple artistic media, Killeen ISD’s annual art show is about to unfold. Using the theme “Ignite,” this year’s 23 rd Annual KISD A...
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Killeen ISD Families, You may have seen recent news coverage regarding Lifetouch Photography Services, a third-party vendor used by school districts nationwide and by some of our KISD schools. KISD takes student privacy seriously, and we expect the same from any vendor working with our schools. Vendors are expected to follow applicable state and federal student privacy laws, including FERPA. Lifetouch has publicly stated that the claims being shared online are not accurate. At this time, we are not aware of verified information indicating KISD student photos have been accessed or misused. School photography participation is optional. If you do not want your student photographed, please contact your campus front office before picture day to request an opt-out. Beginning next school year, Killeen ISD will oversee a districtwide photography vendor selection process to ensure consistency and evaluate potential cost savings, while maintaining clear expectations for student privacy. We will continue to monitor credible updates and communicate with families if circumstances change. Killeen ISD

Update on School Photography Services

February 17, 2026
Killeen ISD Families, You may have seen recent news coverage regarding Lifetouch Photography Services, a third-party vendor used by school districts nationwide and by some of our...
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MS Dance tryouts

Killeen ISD Announces Middle School Dance Tryouts for March 2026

February 12, 2026
Killeen ISD middle school dance tryouts will take place in March 2026 for current 5th-, 6th-, and 7th grade students interested in joining their campus dance team. Parents/guard...
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Killeen ISD Announces Executive Directors of School Leadership for 2026–2027 School Year KILLEEN, TX — Killeen ISD has announced five appointments to Executive Director of School Leadership positions for the 2026–2027 school year. These executive directors will provide direct support to campus principals and school leadership teams as part of the district’s continued focus on strengthening teaching and learning and improving academic outcomes. “Strong schools require strong leadership support,” Superintendent Dr. King Davis said. “These leaders have a strong track record of leading campuses and improving academic outcomes. They understand accountability, they understand instruction, and they know what it takes to move schools forward.” Elementary Schools Yanitzie Oquendo and Amber Dibble have been selected to serve as executive directors of school leadership for elementary schools. Oquendo is in her first year as principal of Killeen Elementary. Before that, she served four years as principal of Richard E. Cavazos Elementary where the campus experienced sustained improvement and high performance. Under her leadership, Cavazos Elementary demonstrated consistently strong results across all areas of performance, with high achievement across all domains that culminated in an overall “A” rating, which was achieved and sustained from the 2022–2023 through the 2024–2025 school years. During this time, the campus earned multiple state distinction designations each year, reflecting broad-based success across all domains rather than performance in a single area. Additionally, Cavazos Elementary did not receive any federal accountability labels, as all student populations met expected progress targets. Together, these results reflect leadership that built and maintained a high-performing campus culture focused on excellence, consistency, and success for all students. Oquendo’s vast experience also includes serving as an assistant principal, curriculum instructional specialist, teacher, and paraprofessional. She earned a bachelor’s degree from Northwestern State University and a master’s degree from Concordia University Texas. Dibble began serving as principal of Maude Moore Wood Elementary in the 2021–2022 school year, sustaining a “B” overall campus rating each year. Under her leadership, the campus earned state distinction designations in each evaluated year, reflecting consistent success in student achievement across content areas. In addition, the campus made significant progress in supporting all student groups, with Closing the Gaps improving from a “C” to an “A” during her tenure. Throughout this period, Maude Moore Wood did not receive any federal accountability labels, as all student populations met expected progress targets. Collectively, these outcomes demonstrate leadership that strengthened campus systems, supported student growth, and delivered positive results for all learners. Before becoming a principal, Dibble was an assistant principal at Maude Moore Wood and Montague Village elementary schools and a classroom teacher at Montague Village Elementary for 11 years. Dibble earned a bachelor’s degree from Baylor University and a master’s degree in educational leadership from the University of Texas at Tyler. Middle Schools Tomas Sias and Lance P. Williams have been selected to serve as executive directors of school leadership for middle schools. Sias currently serves as principal of Manor Middle School and is also supporting Ira Cross Elementary as interim principal. He has served in administrative roles in Killeen ISD since 2012, when he was an assistant principal at Willow Springs Elementary. In 2014, Sias became principal of Ira Cross Elementary, a role he held for 11 years. Under his leadership, Sias led measurable and sustained improvements in overall campus performance and student outcomes. When he assumed leadership, the campus had no special recognitions; however, during his tenure, Ira Cross earned state distinction designations in every year the campus was evaluated, ultimately achieving the highest overall rating of an A in 2025. Throughout this time, the campus showed consistent academic progress for all students and avoided any federal accountability labels because every student group met expected progress targets. Together, these results reflect strong leadership that improved outcomes for all learners and established a culture of high performance and equity. Sias earned a bachelor’s degree from Tarleton State University and a master’s degree from Texas A&M University–Central Texas. Williams will join Killeen ISD after a 20-year career in Dallas ISD, most recently as principal of Lincoln High School, a role he’s held since 2022. As principal, Williams led a comprehensive turnaround through participatory leadership that engaged staff, students, parents and the community. During his tenure, Lincoln High School improved from an “F” to a “B” in state accountability, earned three distinction designations and moved from the bottom 5 percent to the top 25 percent of comparable schools in Closing the Gaps. Program alignment efforts resulted in a 30-point increase in college, career, and military readiness, reaching an “A” rating of 95. Together, these results reflect leadership that established strong systems, accelerated improvement, and positioned the campus for sustained success for all students. Williams also demonstrated success as a middle school leader. He served as principal of Ernest Bernard Comstock Middle School in Dallas ISD from March 2022 to July 2023. During that time, he strengthened instructional systems, improved the campus rating, increased parent and staff climate survey results, and achieved a 90 percent staff retention rate after his first year. Williams earned a bachelor’s degree in music and a master’s degree in education administration from Prairie View A&M University. High Schools Mary Lynn Gawryszewski has been selected to serve as executive director of school leadership for high schools. Gawryszewski has served as principal of Shoemaker High School for the past two school years, where the school has demonstrated improvement in accountability performance. Under her leadership, the campus showed notable progress in supporting all student groups, with Closing the Gaps improving from a “D” to a “C,” reflecting stronger systems for monitoring progress and addressing student needs. In addition, based on preliminary results, the campus earned an “A” for college, career, and military readiness for the 2025 graduating class, demonstrating increased success in postsecondary preparedness. Collectively, these results reflect leadership that accelerated improvement, strengthened equity-focused practices, and improved outcomes for students in a relatively short period of time. Gawryszewski also has experience as principal at Nolan Middle School and in several district-level curriculum and instructional roles, including curriculum and assessment specialist and instructional specialist. She began her career as a teacher at Harker Heights High School, where she taught for nine years before becoming an administrator. Gawryszewski earned a bachelor’s degree from the State University of New York at Cortland and a master’s degree in educational leadership from Stephen F. Austin State University. Oquendo, Sias, Dibble and Gawryszewski will continue serving in their current Killeen ISD principal roles through the end of the 2025–2026 school year. The appointments are part of an updated school leadership structure in Killeen ISD that will include seven Executive Directors of School Leadership for the 2026–2027 school year. Under the structure, four executive directors will support the district’s 30 elementary campuses; two will support 10 middle schools; and one will support six high schools. “In a district our size, we have to be structured in a way that allows leaders to truly support schools,” Davis said. “This approach makes the work more manageable and allows our executive directors to spend more time on campuses supporting principals and strengthening teaching and learning.” The newly appointed executive directors will join Dr. Julie Sims, executive director of school leadership for elementary schools, and Dr. Keonna White, executive director of school leadership for middle schools.

Killeen ISD Announces Executive Directors of School Leadership for 2026–2027 School Year 

February 11, 2026
KILLEEN, TX — Killeen ISD has announced five appointments to Executive Director of School Leadership positions for the 2026–2027 school year. These executive directors will provid...
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Killeen ISD Invites Students and Families to Future Ready Expo KILLEEN, Texas — Killeen Independent School District will host the Future Ready Expo: Chart Your Course on Thursday, February 12, 2026, from 5:30–7:00 p.m. at the KISD Career Center, located at 1320 Stagecoach Road. The Future Ready Expo is open to all KISD students and families, including elementary, middle, and high school students. The event is designed to help students explore career pathways, engage in hands-on STEM demonstrations, and learn how KISD programs support future college, career, and military readiness. Families will have the opportunity to explore career classrooms, learn about courses that can be taken in middle school for high school credit, and attend informational sessions on course planning, financial aid, and scholarships. The Future Ready Expo offers a one-stop opportunity for students and families to plan ahead and make informed decisions about their educational journey. For more information, contact 254-336-1740.

Killeen ISD Invites Students and Families to Future Ready Expo

February 10, 2026
Killeen Independent School District will host the Future Ready Expo: Chart Your Course on Thursday, February 12, 2026, from 5:30–7:00 p.m. at the KISD Career Center, located at 13...
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enroll banner

Current KISD Students Can Enroll for 2026-2027 School Year Now!

February 10, 2026
Killeen ISD is excited to announce that registration for the 2026-2027 school year is open for current students from Feb. 9-March 13, 2026. Families with students already enroll...
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Killeen ISD is excited to announce that registration for the 2026-2027 school year is open for current students from Feb. 9-March 13, 2026. Families with students already enrolled in the district can complete registration electronically via the Home Access Center. This convenient platform allows parents and guardians to update student information, provide required documents, and finalize enrollment for the upcoming school year. For current students not returning to the district in 2026-2027, families can notify the district of their plans through the registration form in the Home Access Center. Students currently on a school transfer who wish to renew their transfer request must do so during the registration period. Failing to renew a transfer request during this timeframe could result in the loss of the transfer approval. Required Documentation: All students are required to provide proof of residency, shot record, birth certificate and parent ID to complete the registration process. Proof of residency documentation must be related to a permanent residence such as a recent utility bill, military housing order, homeowner insurance policy or mortgage statement. If families need assistance with registration, they are encouraged to contact their student’s school directly. Families new to the district should visit www.killeenisd.org/enroll for more information. The registration process for new-to-the-district students will begin in late spring.

Current KISD Students Can Enroll for 2026-2027 School Year Now!

February 10, 2026
Killeen ISD is excited to announce that registration for the 2026-2027 school year is open for current students from Feb. 9-March 13, 2026. Families with students already enroll...
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gold background with KISD seal

Student Expression & Civic Engagement

February 5, 2026
Killeen ISD is issuing a follow-up to the district’s earlier communication about possible student walkouts to ensure families and staff understand expectations and consequences. ...
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KISD dance showcase 2026

Dance team show-off thrills supportive crowd

February 5, 2026
Dance teams from across Killeen ISD middle schools and high schools combined in a pre-competition showoff featuring an impressive array of high-kick, hard-driving, dramatic movemen...
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HBCU College & Fair

Killeen ISD To Host HBCU College & Teen Job Fair

February 2, 2026
Killeen ISD, in partnership with the Moss Foundation, will host its annual HBCU College Fair & Teen Job Fair on Saturday, February 7, 2026, from 11 a.m. to 2 p.m. at Harker Height...
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STEEL Award Andre Thomas

Live Oak Ridge custodian earns STEEL Award

January 27, 2026
At Live Oak Ridge Middle School everyone knows lead custodian Andre Thomas – knows him, respects him and thinks the world of him. The longtime custodian is a Killeen ISD STEEL ...
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Bill Shine - 2010 Distinguished Alumni

Killeen ISD mourns the loss of 2010 Distinguished Alumni Bill Shine

January 13, 2026
Killeen ISD is saddened to learn of the passing of William “Bill” Shine, a 2010 Killeen ISD Distinguished Alumni honoree. Mr. Shine was a proud Killeen High School graduate (Clas...
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lobo

LORMS STAAR Bootcamp Monthly on Saturdays!

January 11, 2026
Attention, Lobos! Get ready to power up your learning! Our STAAR Bootcamp monthly on Saturdays from 9:00 AM to 12:00 PM right here on the Live Oak Ridge Middle School camp...
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As school districts across Texas continue to face challenges related to teacher shortages, Killeen ISD remains committed to growing its own educators through innovative workforce pathways. This fall, the district is proud to celebrate another milestone in its KISD Teach program with a new group of graduates who are one step closer to leading classrooms of their own. Launched to support paraprofessionals and instructional aides already serving students, KISD Teach provides a structured pathway to earning a bachelor’s degree and teacher certification. The program focuses on investing in individuals who have demonstrated dedication, experience, and a long-term commitment to Killeen ISD schools. Following the success of the program’s first graduating cohort, KISD is excited to announce five additional participants have completed their degree requirements through Indiana Wesleyan University. Each graduate has earned a Bachelor of Science in Integrative Studies, marking a significant step forward on their journey toward becoming fully certified classroom teachers. The newest graduates include: • Valerie Thomas, Hay Branch Elementary • Amanda Dominguez, Nolanville Elementary • Yvonne Villacana, Alice W. Douse Elementary • Tara Kreinbrink, Richard E. Cavazos Elementary • Tesa Moore, Reeces Creek Elementary KISD Teach was created to address staffing needs while also opening doors for paraprofessionals who already play a vital role in daily instruction and student support. By combining classroom experience with higher education and certification coursework, the program strengthens continuity for students and builds a sustainable pipeline of future teachers from within the district. These graduates represent more than academic achievement they reflect Killeen ISD’s belief that the future of teaching can be cultivated right here at home, by empowering the people who already know and love its schools. Killeen ISD congratulates Valerie, Amanda, Yvonne, Tara, and Tesa on this accomplishment and looks forward to supporting them as they continue toward full teacher certification and classroom leadership.

Killeen ISD Celebrates “KISD TEACH” Program Fall Graduates

December 19, 2025
As school districts across Texas continue to face challenges related to teacher shortages, Killeen ISD remains committed to growing its own educators through innovative workforce ...
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Killeen ISD has earned a national recognition for its strong commitment to transparent and high-quality financial reporting. The Government Finance Officers Association of the United States and Canada (GFOA) awarded Killeen ISD the Certificate of Achievement for Excellence in Financial Reporting for its Annual Comprehensive Financial Report for the fiscal year that ended Aug. 31, 2024. GFOA reviewers determined that the district’s report meets the organization’s highest program standards, including clear communication of financial information and a strong “spirit of disclosure” intended to help the public understand the district’s financial story. The Certificate of Achievement is GFOA’s highest form of recognition in governmental accounting and financial reporting. “Responsible financial management is essential to the work we do in Killeen ISD,” said Chief Financial Officer Kallen Vaden. “This recognition affirms our commitment to accuracy, transparency and stewardship of taxpayer dollars.” Vaden also praised the district’s finance team for its dedication. “Our staff works diligently throughout the year to ensure our reports meet the highest standards,” she said. “I’m grateful for their professionalism and the pride they bring to serving our community.”

Killeen ISD Earns National Recognition for Excellence in Financial Reporting

December 10, 2025
Killeen ISD has earned a national recognition for its strong commitment to transparent and high-quality financial reporting. The Government Finance Officers Association of the Un...
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<p>The most wonderful time of the year is here, and our talented KISD performers are filling the season with music, movement, and magical moments! From joyful choir performances to dazzling band and orchestra concerts, campuses throughout the district are shining bright this December. Gather your family, invite your friends, and make plans to celebrate the holidays with incredible student artistry happening all across our community.</p><p>**Families are encouraged to check with their student’s campus for any updates or time changes.</p><p><strong>Can’t make it in person?</strong> Select concerts will be livestreamed on our YouTube and Facebook channels so you can enjoy the holiday cheer from anywhere. Highlights and recaps will also be posted later on KISD TV.</p><p><strong><u>Livestream Schedule</u></strong></p><ul><li><p>Mon, Dec 8 – 6:00 PM: Ellison High School Choir</p></li><li><p>Tue, Dec 9 – 7:00 PM: Harker Heights High School Band</p></li><li><p>Wed, Dec 10 – 7:00 PM: Chaparral High School Orchestra</p></li><li><p>Thu, Dec 11 – 6:00 PM: Killeen High School Band</p></li><li><p>Wed, Dec 17 – 6:30 PM: Shoemaker High School Choir</p><p></p></li></ul><p><strong><u>Watch Live:</u></strong></p><p>YouTube: <a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer nofollow" href="http://youtube.killeenisd.org">youtube.killeenisd.org</a></p><p>Facebook: facebook.com/killeen.isd</p><p><strong><u>Event Recaps:</u></strong></p><p>KISD TV: <a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer nofollow" href="http://kisdtv.killeenisd.org">kisdtv.killeenisd.org</a></p><hr><h4 style="text-align: left"><strong>This Week in KISD Fine Arts</strong></h4><p>(Please check with campuses for any updates or schedule adjustments.)</p><p><strong><u>Monday, December 8</u></strong></p><ul><li><p><strong>Ellison High School Choir Concert</strong> – 6:00 PM -</p><p>Ellison High School Auditorium</p></li><li><p><strong>Harker Heights High School Orchestra</strong> – 6:30 PM -</p><p>Harker Heights High School Auditorium</p></li><li><p><strong>Roy J. Smith Middle School Orchestra Winter Concert</strong> – 6:30 PM -</p><p>Chaparral High School Auditorium</p></li><li><p><strong>Liberty Hill Middle School Orchestra Winter Concert</strong> – 7:30 PM -</p><p>Chaparral High School Auditorium</p></li></ul><p><strong><u>Tuesday, December 9</u></strong></p><ul><li><p>Eastern Hills Middle School Orchestra Concert – 6:00 PM -</p><p>Eastern Hills Cafeteria</p></li><li><p>Live Oak Ridge Middle School Band – 6:30 PM -</p><p>Shoemaker High School Auditorium</p></li><li><p>Manor Middle School Band – 6:30 PM -</p><p>Killeen High School Auditorium</p></li><li><p>Rancier Middle School Band – 7:30 PM -</p><p>Killeen High School Auditorium</p></li><li><p>Harker Heights High School Band – 7:30 PM -</p><p>Harker Heights High School Auditorium</p></li></ul><p><strong><u>Wednesday, December 10</u></strong></p><ul><li><p>Union Grove Middle School Band – 5:30 PM -</p><p>Harker Heights High School Auditorium</p></li><li><p>Nolan Middle School Band &amp; Orchestra – 6:30 PM -</p><p>Harker Heights High School Auditorium</p></li><li><p>Middle School Choir Concerts – 5:00–8:00 PM -</p><p>Ellison High School Auditorium</p></li></ul><p><strong><u>Thursday, December 11</u></strong></p><ul><li><p>Venable Village Music Program – 4:30 PM -</p><p>VVES Cafeteria</p></li><li><p>Killeen High School Band – 6:00 PM -</p><p>Killeen High School Auditorium</p></li><li><p>Harker Heights High School Choir Concert – 7:00 PM -</p><p>Harker Heights High School Auditorium</p></li><li><p>Chaparral High School Choir Concert – 7:00 PM -</p><p>Chaparral HS Auditorium</p></li></ul><p><strong><u>Friday, December 12</u></strong></p><ul><li><p>Middle School Choir Concerts – 5:30–7:30 PM -</p><p>Chaparral High School Auditorium</p></li></ul><p><strong><u>Saturday, December 13</u></strong></p><ul><li><p>Christmas Parade – 6:00 PM -</p><p>Downtown Killeen</p></li><li><p>Killeen High School Choir: Feast of Carols – 6:00–9:00 PM -</p><p>KHS Auditorium/Cafeteria</p></li></ul><p><strong><u>Sunday, December 14</u></strong></p><ul><li><p>Community Youth Christmas Cantata – 6:00–7:00 PM</p><p><em>In Memory of Jarin Cole</em> -</p><p>Greater Vision Community Church</p></li></ul><p><strong><u>Monday, December 15</u></strong></p><ul><li><p>Charles Patterson &amp; Chaparral High School Band Concerts – 5:30–8:00 PM -</p><p>Chaparral High School Auditorium</p></li><li><p>Eastern Hills Middle School Orchestra – 6:00 PM -</p><p>Eastern Hills Middle School Cafeteria</p></li><li><p>Middle School Choir Concerts – 6:00–8:00 PM -</p><p>Shoemaker High School Auditorium</p></li><li><p>Ellison High School Concert – 6:30 PM -</p><p>Ellison High School Auditorium</p></li></ul><p><strong><u>Tuesday, December 16</u></strong></p><ul><li><p>Middle School Choir Concerts – 6:00–8:00 PM-</p><p>Harker Heights High School Auditorium</p></li><li><p>Jimmie D. Aycock Middle School Band Concert – 6:00 PM -</p><p>Chaparral High School Auditorium</p></li><li><p>Live Oak Ridge Middle School Beginner Band Showcase – 6:00 PM -</p><p>LORMS Gym</p></li></ul><p><strong><u>Wednesday, December 17</u></strong></p><ul><li><p>Shoemaker High School Choir Concert – 6:30 PM -</p><p>Shoemaker High School Auditorium</p></li><li><p>Roy J. Smith Band Concerts – 6:30 PM -</p><p>Chaparral High School Auditorium</p></li></ul><p><strong><u>Thursday, December 18</u></strong></p><ul><li><p>Killeen High School Fall Dance Show – 6:00 PM -</p><p>Killeen High School Auditorium</p></li></ul><p>Killeen ISD is proud to lead the region in education and fine arts, offering exceptional opportunities for students to shine through performances that inspire, connect, and celebrate our community. We hope to see you at one of our many holiday events as we continue to champion creativity, achievement, and the vibrant spirit of KISD this holiday season.</p>

Get Into the Holiday Spirit With KISD Fine Arts!

December 8, 2025
The most wonderful time of the year is here, and our talented KISD performers are filling the season with music, movement, and magical moments! From joyful choir performances to d...
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More than 1,500 Killeen ISD student-athletes across Chaparral, Ellison, Harker Heights, Killeen and Shoemaker high schools earned honor roll status through the first nine weeks of the school year, shining a spotlight on the determined efforts those individuals put forth while striving for academic and athletic excellence. “In Killeen ISD, we are continually raising the standard. We have set high expectations for all our student-athletes in and out of the classroom. Their achievements reflect that commitment,” KISD executive director for boys athletics Matt Carroll said. “Having more than 1,500 high school athletes earn honor roll status shows their dedication to excellence beyond the game. We are proud to help shape true student-athletes, who thrive academically and competitively.” While honor roll recipients represent all athletic programs, those competing in fall sports demonstrated exceptional time management and perseverance during a demanding first grading period. This fall, multiple programs enjoyed postseason success. Harker Heights team tennis advanced to the playoffs and secured a bi-district championship. The Ellison and Harker Heights boys cross country teams brought home district titles and advanced to regionals, in which Shoemaker and Chaparral also participated. The Chaparral, Harker Heights and Ellison volleyball teams qualified for postseason play, with the Lady Eagles advancing to the second round. On the gridiron, Ellison and Harker Heights football earned playoff berths, with the Knights capturing their fourth consecutive district championship and advancing, so far, to the second round. “Creating true student-athletes in Killeen ISD means inspiring individuals to invest as much time and effort in the classroom as they do in their sports,” KISD executive director for girls athletics Latisha Williams said. “When students learn to excel both academically and athletically, they are not only working toward building great teams for the now but also laying a foundation for their future.” Carroll and Williams also expressed their appreciation for the teachers, counselors and coaches who dedicate themselves to supporting the student-athletes.

More than 1,500 Killeen ISD Student-Athletes Make Honor Roll for First Nine Weeks

November 21, 2025
More than 1,500 Killeen ISD student-athletes across Chaparral, Ellison, Harker Heights, Killeen and Shoemaker high schools earned honor roll status through the first nine weeks of...
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kisd calendar

Killeen ISD Trustees Approve Academic Calendar

November 19, 2025
The Killeen ISD Board of Trustees on Tuesday approved the 2026–27 academic calendar , setting the first day of school for Aug. 17, 2026, and the last day for May 27, 2027. The cal...
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