The mission of TIBS is to advocate for access to an IB education for all and provide support to IB World Schools through professional development, curriculum planning, program implementation, and scholarship programs.

Dear TIBS Community,

Welcome to the 2026 Spring eNewsletter.

The 2025-2026 school year is quickly drawing to a close. At Texas IB Schools, we always know that our teachers and administrators are working beyond expectations to provide students the best possible learning environments and academic experiences that reflect IB principles and practices. We are always proud of your exceptional work and accomplishments.

Thanks so much to those of you who responded to our request for articles. We were impressed with the things you had to share. We will also share some reflection and information on our college fair, including the date of our 2027 fair.



This edition provides insight into several PYP and MYP programs. It is always our hope that seeing accomplishments and good things that have happened will either inspire you or confirm that you, too, are doing good things. Please let us know what other kinds of items you would like to see in this eNewsletter in the future.

We are grateful for your continued support and truly appreciate your inspiring community and classroom work. Don't forget to keep us updated with your stories, photos, and videos! We can't wait to see them this fall.



Best regards, 

Karen Phillips, TIBS Executive Director

Courtney Smith, TIBS Associate Executive Director

• Scholarship Winners
• Grant Winners
• What We've Been Up To/ What's Coming Up
• 2026-27 Board Members
• Recently Authorized Schools
• Global Conference
• 2026 College Fair Report
• Highlights from our Schools
• Announcements
• Contact Us

TIBS DP Scholarship Winners:

• Ishaan Agarwal (Bellaire High School)
• Taryn Campos-Smith (Lamar Academy/McAllen High School)
• Zeva Epstein (Plano East Senior High School)
• Allyson Gutierrez (Lamar Academy/McAllen Memorial High School)
• Kaleb Mercado (South Texas ISD World Scholars)
• Miranda Wang (Bellaire High School)

TIBS Innovative Grant Winners



• Claudine Escobar Durand & Marta Martinez Izquierdo (Austin International School): Spotlight on Languages—focusing on innovation in language through the arts
• Ikki Vaughn M. Rupa, Michael Spears, & Ms. Picklesimer (Benjamin O. Davis, Jr. Senior High School): Vertical Board for Group Tasks and Modeling, and Deltamath Subscription
• Dr. Te T’aime Green (Geneva Heights Elementary): IB in Action: Empowering Student Agency Through Everyday Teaching

TIBS Roundtable Grant Winners



• Claudine Escobar Durand (Austin International School): Curriculum Without Borders: A Cross-School IB MYP Roundtable

What We’ve Been Up To:

TIBS Spring Meeting—Virtual (February 27)

TAGT Leadership Conference—Round Rock (March 22-24)

TIBS College Fair—Hurst (March 31)

What’s Coming Up:

Odessa Area Workshops—May 29 & 30

Regional Associations Meeting—July 14-15 (Denver)

IB Global Conference—July 16-18 (Denver)

Austin Workshops—July 21-23 & 24-26

DFW Area Workshops—July 23 & 24

Houston Area Workshops—July 28 & 29

San Antonio Area Workshops—July 29 & 30

Longview Area Workshops—August 12 & 13

(Registration for the two Austin workshops is on our website. Registration for the area workshops is handled through campus IB Coordinators. )

Congratulations to our newly authorized schools in Texas! 

We are very proud of all of your hard work. If you are not on this list and have been authorized, please let us know.

• Alex Sanger Preparatory (MYP)—Dallas
• Crockett Middle School (MYP)—Odessa
• International School of Texas (DP)—Bee Cave
• The Kintess School (PYP)—Richmond

Jennifer Cunningham (At Large)--Dallas ISD

Dario Ganic (At Large)--Uplift Education, Dallas

Monica Munoz (At Large)-- Edgewood ISD

Christin Key (DP)--Round Rock ISD

Jon Wheeler (DP)--Melissa ISD

Eydie Simpson (MYP)--Melissa ISD

Kimberly Ogo (MYP)--Meridian World School

Elizabeth Hall (PYP)--Round Rock ISD

Christy Scott (PYP)--Longview ISD

Sherri Rosse Financial Officer (non-voting member)

Margaret Davis University and Government Liaison ( non-voting member )



IB Global Conference

Denver 2026

Join us at the IB Global Conference, Denver, taking place from 16 to 18 July 2026. Connect with educators from around the world to explore new ideas, share best practices, and get inspired for the school year ahead.

Our theme for 2026: Shared Learning, Shared Futures

In an increasingly polarized world, the ability to exchange ideas across different perspectives is essential for creating a better and more peaceful world. IB educators drive this vital work. As leaders and learners, we are uniquely positioned to nurture the skills of thoughtful dialogue. When we encourage courageous conversations, our classrooms become collaborative spaces where disagreement leads to deeper learning, intercultural understanding, and respect. 

Here is a link to the registration page. We hope to see lots of you in Denver in July!

Family Literacy Night at Westlake Academy

The Westlake Academy PYP Family Literacy Night marked the culmination of our One Book, One School initiative, designed to foster a lifelong love of reading and strengthen the partnership between school and home. Over the course of two months, all PYP classes read Beverly Cleary’s The Mouse and the Motorcycle. Family Literacy Night brought this shared experience to life, offering students and families authentic opportunities to engage in inquiry, collaboration, and meaningful literacy activities together.

Families participated in interactive activities that brought The Mouse and the Motorcycle by Beverly Cleary to life, encouraging students to apply approaches to learning, such as communication, social, and thinking skills, while embodying the IB learner profile attributes of communicator, risk-taker, and reflection.

One Book, One School exceeded expectations, with high student engagement and overwhelmingly positive family feedback that highlighted the impact of shared reading in building comprehension and community. Mr. T.J. Duane, Town of Westlake Council Member, remarked, “This is the best one of these I’ve attended. Great job to everyone who organized and all the teachers for organizing such engaging activities.” Students also shared enthusiastic reflections, demonstrating strong student voice and agency. Overall, the event fostered a sense of community and reinforced literacy as a meaningful, shared experience beyond the classroom, nurturing a love of learning and reading. Sincere thanks to the Westlake Academy Foundation, who was awarded a grant to make this student-driven creative experience possible.



Joe Durdin, our Communications Manager, created this video recapping the evening which was shared on social media for the community to enjoy.

Submitted by Sarah Titus, Primary Librarian, Westlake Academy

Happenings at Forest Park

Middle School

News from Burbank High School

On March 5th, Burbank High School celebrated student growth through our Personal Project and Exhibition presentations. Teachers noted a significant increase in the sophistication of student research, with learners demonstrating greater independence, critical thinking, and intentionality. Students took full ownership of their learning, showcasing their projects with confidence and clarity, proving themselves not only as researchers, but as effective communicators.

Top presenters from our Personal Project Exhibition earned a trip to Hurst, Texas, to explore over 100 colleges and universities. For many students, the experience affirmed existing goals and inspired new possibilities for their future.



In the Diploma Programme, we are proud to celebrate our valedictorian, Catherine, who began her IB journey at Burbank in 9th grade and closes this chapter heading to Stanford University to pursue a degree in engineering, a testament to her commitment, resilience, and passion for learning.

These moments reflect the power of an IB education, where student agency, curiosity, and meaningful inquiry come together to create impactful learning experiences.

Submitted by Gabriela Gonzalez

MYP Coordinator, Burbank High School, San Antonio ISD

Celebrating Student Projects, Community Involvement, and Academic Success at Hudson PEP

Hudson PEP continues to provide meaningful opportunities for family and community engagement through dynamic, school-wide events. One of our highlights was Career Day, where parents volunteered their time to share insights about their professions. Presentations took place across campus—in classrooms, the cafeteria, and outdoor spaces—giving students a firsthand look at a wide range of careers.

Our presenters represented diverse fields including medicine, law, engineering, baking, and computer programming. Students also explored community service roles through interactive displays featuring a fire truck, police car, and trash truck, bringing real-world connections to life.

In addition, our Campus Clean-Up Day brought families together to enhance our school environment. Volunteers planted flowers, cleaned the greenhouse, built and relocated raised garden beds, and worked collaboratively to beautify our campus. These experiences not only strengthened school-community relationships, but also provided hands-on learning opportunities for our students

Hudson PEP is proud to be recognized as an A-rated campus by the Texas Education Agency. This achievement reflects the hard work and dedication of both our students and staff.

Our success is driven by teachers who faithfully implement the International Baccalaureate (IB) model, fostering student-led, collaborative classrooms. A standout example is our student-created IB boards, where learners demonstrate their understanding of the IB framework while taking ownership of their educational journey.

This focus on student agency, high expectations, and reflective learning continues to drive our academic excellence.

Submitted by Kimberly Storey , PYP Coordinator, Hudson PEP School,

Longview ISD

The Ware Way

At Ware Elementary, who we are is defined not just by what we learn, but by how we serve. As part of our commitment to developing compassionate, globally minded students, Ware scholars actively engage in meaningful community service throughout the year. Through these experiences, students explore their roles and responsibilities within their community while strengthening their social and critical thinking skills.

This year, students enthusiastically participated in a variety of service-driven initiatives. One highlight was our spirited Penny Wars, where students collected and donated change in a friendly competition between house systems and homerooms. The impact extended far beyond the classroom. Funds raised allowed our PE Club to provide Christmas gifts for four students whose families needed extra support during the holiday season.

Our PE Club continued to lead by example through hands on service. Students volunteered at a local animal shelter, helping care for animals and support staff. They also gave back on Veterans Day by partnering with the Highway 80 Rescue Mission to serve meals to unhoused and underprivileged members of our community.

In November, Ware Elementary collected spices for the same organization, contributing to meals

prepared for those in need. That same month, our annual Turkey Trot brought excitement and

generosity together; top runners in each grade were awarded Thanksgiving turkeys, generously

donated by a local soccer team, helping families celebrate the holiday.

The season of giving continued in December with a school-wide sock drive supporting residents in local nursing homes, ensuring warmth and comfort during the winter months.

This spring, students took pride in their community by participating in roadside cleanups, reinforcing the importance of environmental stewardship. Additionally, both students and staff gave generously to support the United Way, demonstrating the power of collective impact.

Beyond service projects, Ware Elementary has created opportunities to celebrate and connect

through events such as National Night Out, Hispanic Heritage Night, and a Black History program

bringing together families and strengthening community bonds.

At its core, The Ware Way is about more than service; it’s about shaping students into responsible, caring citizens with a deep sense of purpose and global awareness. Through every act of kindness and every opportunity to give back, Ware students are truly making a difference.

Submitted by Rebecca Lanham, PYP Coordinator, Ware Elementary, Longview ISD

J. L. Everhart Magnet Elementary School Receives Prestigious Award

J. L. Everhart Magnet Elementary School of Longview ISD, located in Longview, Texas, is an IB World school that was named a 2025 NABSE Demonstration School by the National Alliance of Black School Educators (NABSE), a prestigious national recognition honoring schools that exemplify excellence, equity, and innovation in education.

This distinction recognizes campuses that implement high-impact, research-based instructional practices while fostering a culture of inclusive excellence and strong community engagement. As a NABSE Demonstration School, J.L. Everhart serves as a national model, showcasing effective schoolwide systems, data-driven instruction, and leadership practices that support continuous growth and high levels of student achievement.

As part of this honor, our school presented at the 53rd Annual NABSE Conference in Chicago, where some of our teachers shared our campus systems, practices, and strategies with educators from across the nation. The school was also formally recognized during the conference, highlighting the collective efforts that have contributed to its success.

Through a relentless commitment to differentiation, deep understanding of student needs, and strong relationship-building, J.L. Everhart has embraced change and maintained a focus on providing exceptional “customer service” to students and families. By holding firm to a mindset of perseverance and never giving up, our campus not only earned this prestigious national recognition, but also achieved an “A” rating from the state of Texas.

This recognition deeply reflects the core principles of International Baccalaureate (IB). J.L. Everhart’s focus on developing the whole child aligns with the IB Learner Profile, fostering students who are knowledgeable, caring, reflective, and open-minded. The campus’s emphasis on inquiry-based learning, global-mindedness, and strong relationships supports the development of internationally-minded students who are prepared to thrive in an ever-changing world. Additionally, the school’s commitment to equity and inclusion mirrors IB’s mission to create a better and more peaceful world through education.

This achievement also reflects J.L. Everhart’s unwavering commitment to ensuring that every student has access to exceptional learning opportunities within a supportive and empowering environment. It stands as a testament to the dedication of our students, staff, families, and community, as our campus proudly represents Longview ISD and the state of Texas on a national stage.

Submitted by Dorcus Dunlop-Jackson, PYP Coordinator,

J.L. Everhart Elementary School, Longview ISD

Foster Middle School's Fine Arts Showcase

Foster Middle School’s Fine Arts Showcase was a joyful celebration of creativity, culture, and Dragon pride. Our students truly shined as the Dragonettes, orchestra, band, theatre, and choir filled the night with energy, talent, and confidence.

Guests also enjoyed walking through an exciting art showcase featuring neon glow pieces, Tim Burton–inspired artwork, and beautiful displays honoring Día de los Muertos. Each piece told a story and reflected the creativity and unique voices of our students.

Throughout the showcase, our students brought the IB Learner Profile to life. They were communicators, sharing ideas through their art; risk-takers, trying bold and creative styles; and open-minded, celebrating different cultures and perspectives. They also showed they are thinkers and reflective learners, carefully creating and improving their work to share with others.

We are so proud of our Dragons for making this event such a special night and for continuing to show how the arts help us grow, connect, and celebrate learning together

Submitted by Francine Sparks, MYP Coordinator, Foster Middle School, Longview ISD

Growth to Greatness While Building Better Paths

Judson STEAM Academy is celebrating some incredible academic growth! Following our March STAAR simulation tests, an impressive 291 students earned the distinction of “band-jumpers”—a huge accomplishment that reflects meaningful progress from last year’s performance. Whether moving up an entire performance level (from Below to Approaches, Approaches to Meets, Meets to Masters) or growing by 10 or more points, these students demonstrated the kind of dedication and perseverance we love to see.

To recognize this achievement, we hosted a high-energy Band-Jumping Party—and it did not disappoint! Students enjoyed pizza, a fun “dirty soda” bar, DJ-spun music, and several exciting rounds of BINGO with gift card prizes. The prize wheel kept the energy going, giving students even more chances to celebrate their success.

This celebration served not only as a well-earned reward, but also as motivation leading up to testing—and it clearly paid off. We are beyond proud of our students for their hard work and growth across reading, math, science, and social studies. Way to go, JSA scholars!

This year, Judson STEAM Academy has also taken a powerful step forward in supporting student behavior through the implementation of a Multi-Tiered System of Supports for Behavior (MTSS-B).

With the added support of the Stronger Connections Grant, our campus is creating

meaningful systems that go beyond discipline—focusing instead on growth, reflection, and long-term success for every student.

At the heart of this work is a commitment to understanding and addressing the “why” behind student behavior. Through innovative tools like Alongside, a digital wellness platform, students have access to self-guided supports that help them navigate challenges and build resilience. The platform offers personalized, clinician-developed chat modules tailored to each student’s needs,

along with opportunities for journaling, goal-setting, emotional check-ins, and even encouraging peers through positive feedback. While Alongside is not a replacement for therapy, it serves as a valuable resource that complements the support students receive from our two on-campus counselors.

In addition to digital supports, Judson has introduced the Blue Academy, a daily class designed to help students reflect, reset, and grow. In this supportive environment, students work with caring adults who focus on building relationships, identifying root causes of behavior, and teaching healthy coping strategies. Rather than simply assigning

consequences, the program emphasizes restorative practices—guiding students to take ownership, make improvements, and develop the skills needed for future success.Through MTSS-B, Judson STEAM Academy is fostering a culture where students feel supported, understood, and empowered to make positive choices. We are proud of the progress being made and remain committed to helping every student thrive—both academically and personally.

Submitted by Amy Bruyere, Assistant Principal, Judson STEAM Academy, Longview ISD

Student Ambassadors at Johnston-McQueen Elementary

At Johnston-McQueen Elementary, the Student Ambassador program is a key effort to develop student leaders who fully embrace the International Baccalaureate (IB) Learner Profile. Through intentional leadership training and meaningful service opportunities, these students are learning what it means to lead with integrity, compassion, and purpose.

Student Ambassadors meet weekly with the school counselor to build leadership capacity and strengthen character. These sessions focus on core values such as responsibility, respect, caring, and citizenship, while also reinforcing IB Learner Profile attributes including being caring, balanced, principled, and knowledgeable.

Students are encouraged not only to understand these traits, but to actively demonstrate them in their daily actions. On campus, ambassadors play an important role in supporting a positive and inclusive school environment. They help maintain the campus by picking up litter and caring for shared spaces like the turtle garden. They also assist in delivering food to students through the school’s food program, ensuring that all students have access to what they need to start their day successfully.

A central part of their role is welcoming new students. Ambassadors help new arrivals transition smoothly by introducing them to classmates, explaining routines, and offering support throughout the school day. Whether sitting together at lunch, playing at recess, or guiding them at dismissal, ambassadors help ensure every student feels seen, supported, and connected.

Beyond the school, Student Ambassadors extend their service into the community. During the holiday season, they visit local nursing home residents, sharing handmade cards and singing carols to spread joy. They also serve as volunteer bell ringers for the Salvation Army’s Red Kettle Campaign, helping raise funds that support local services such as shelters, disaster relief, and family assistance programs.

In addition, ambassadors support the school’s annual Food Drive, helping provide food baskets to families who may need extra support during the holidays.

Through these experiences, Johnston-McQueen’s Student Ambassadors are not only learning about leadership they are living it. By putting IB values into action both on campus and in the community, they are making a meaningful impact and setting a strong example for their peers.

Submitted by Lauren Geer, Assistant Principal, Johnston-McQueen Elementary School, Longview ISD

UPCOMING EVENTS:

• Registration for the TIBS Austin workshops (Session 1 and 2) is here. Remember: the IB organization and Kent State University have partnered to offer graduate credit for PYP, MYP, and DP training. Click here to find out more!
• College Fair 2027 is scheduled for March 31, 2027, Hurst Conference Center.

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