Welcome to the first edition of The Buccaneer Bulletin. This monthly e-newsletter will be sent to all staff and families during the second week of each month. The goal is to provide you with consistent information on upcoming events; student, staff and community celebrations; ongoing operations; and district news. We hope you enjoy reading the Buccaneer Bulletin each month and we encourage you to reach out with any questions or suggestions. |
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Dear Buccaneer Families,
It is an honor to serve as the new Superintendent of East Chambers ISD—a district I care deeply about and have been proud to serve. With over 31 years in education, including 18 years in school leadership across four diverse districts, my passion remains constant: creating schools where every student feels safe, valued, and inspired to reach their full potential.
I believe that strong relationships are the foundation of effective education—especially the connection between teachers and students. Every campus should feel like a school family, where trust, inclusion, and belonging are felt by all. When students feel secure and supported, meaningful learning can truly take place.
As an instructional leader, I am deeply committed to staying close to the heart of what matters most—teaching, student engagement, and professional growth for our educators. High-quality, classroom-aligned instruction and strong teacher collaboration across the district are essential to sustained student success. Every student deserves an excellent education, and every teacher deserves the tools and support to meet students where they are.
I also recognize the vital role extracurricular programs play in enriching the student experience. Athletics, fine arts, and student organizations provide meaningful opportunities for connection, leadership, and personal growth. These experiences build confidence and character and help shape well-rounded young adults.
As Superintendent, I take seriously the responsibility to lead with integrity, transparency, and a student-first mindset. I am committed to listening, learning, and working in partnership with families, staff, and the wider community to move East Chambers ISD forward—together.
Thank you for your continued trust and support. I’m excited about the year ahead and all that we will accomplish as a united Buccaneer family.
Sincerely,
Andrea Smith
Superintendent of Schools, East Chambers ISD
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Football Bi-District Playoff Game Set For Friday
The Buccaneers will take on Palestine Westwood at Navasota on Friday, Nov. 14 at 7 p.m. This is a Bi-District Playoff game and tickets are $6 for adults and $4 for students with student ID. You can purchase tickets using the button below ($1 fee added) or pay with credit/debit or cash at the gate. |
ECISD Launches New Recognition Program
East Chambers ISD is excited to celebrate the many ways our Buccaneer family shines—through two new recognition programs that honor staff and community members who go above and beyond.
Golden Crewmate of the Month
A monthly recognition for staff members who consistently demonstrate teamwork, support their colleagues, and step beyond their responsibilities. Honorees receive a certificate and are spotlighted on the district website, social media, and staff newsletter.
Rising Tide Recognition
A monthly award for community members, businesses, booster clubs, or organizations that volunteer frequently, provide resources, or actively support district initiatives. Honorees receive a certificate and district-wide recognition on the website, social media, and staff newsletter.
How to Nominate
Anyone can nominate an ECISD employee, community member, or organization! Simply visit our ECISD Recognition Program page and complete a nomination form for either award.
At ECISD, we believe that celebrating service, teamwork, and community pride keeps our Buccaneer spirit strong.
Check out our September and October honorees in the Buccaneer Bravos section below.
Supporting Our Own
The East Chambers coaching staff recently partnered with the Texas High School Coaches Association (THSCA) Benevolence Fund to support eighth-grade student-athlete Darrell “Third” Tezeno, who was recently diagnosed with B-cell Acute Lymphoblastic Leukemia. Through this effort, the THSCA Benevolence Fund generously donated $3,000 to assist with Darrell’s medical expenses. Coaches presented Darrell with the donation check and a Buccaneer football jersey—a show of strength, encouragement, and community spirit.
As Darrell and his family continue to face the challenges of treatment, the East Chambers community is rallying together with upcoming fundraisers to provide additional support.
🗓 Saturday, November 22 | 11:00 AM
📍 Winnie Community Building,
Enjoy $15 lunch plates (chicken, sausage, potato salad & beans), raffle baskets, and T-shirts and bracelets for sale—all proceeds benefit Darrell’s medical fund.
Follow Us on Instagram
East Chambers has recently launched a new Instagram account. Search @eastchambersisd or use this button below.
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Photos from Around the District |
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In late October, EC Primary hosted the 2nd Annual First Responder Appreciation Day at ECP! It was a special day spent with local heroes. We appreciate them teaching our students about how they keep our community safe. Thank you Chambers County Sheriff’s Office, Winnie Stowell Volunteer Fire Dept, and Winnie Stowell EMS! |
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EC Treasure Trove is a student-run enterprise at ECHS that was started in the fall of 2024. It is operated by CTE students in the Entrepreneuship 2 and Printing and Imaging Courses. Don't forget to check out our online store throughout the school year for new student designs and creations! |
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EC Primary celebrated the 50th Day of School on October 24 with a 50s Day and second grade rock and roll show. |
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Forty of our high school culinary students and elementary student council members hit the road to Lufkin for the East Texas Food Show & Tasting! They sampled new dishes, shared their opinions, and helped shape what might show up on future school menus. |
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Schools throughout the district celebrated Red Ribbon Week at the end of October. Students enjoyed spirit days including "Our Future is Bright" (neon day), "Say Boo to Bullying (costumes), and of course, the traditional Wear Red Day as pictures at ECJH. |
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- Every one of our cafeteria kitchens earned a top score of 100 on their Health Inspection. We're committed to the highest standards of food safety for your students!
- Congratulations to our Buccaneer Challenger Coin Recipients for August through November 6:
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TC Story tries his very best and always encourages other students in the classroom to do their best while being kind and keeping his commitments daily. TC is a great role model in his classroom.
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Jonah Allen is kind and has the ability to make everyone feel special.
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Jessie Moore goes above and beyond to tell everyone good morning and to make sure they are having a great day.
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Tai’Veon Harmon helped a player from the opponent's team when he got hurt and stayed with the player until their trainer could get across the field.
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Damara Barcenas is the House Point Leader at ECJH.
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Cordell Simpson went out of his way to share his extra breakfast with another student — a simple act that showed compassion and leadership.
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Cally Ogden noticed a friend without a spirit item and didn’t hesitate to share hers — a great example of generosity and school pride.
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Jett Smith is kind & honest - even returning $50 he found.
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Peyton Dillard has an outstanding work ethic & true school spirit.
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Aiden Miner is a hard worker and always does the right thing.
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Kenlynn White is always kind to those around her.
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Jocelyn Heinrich is a dedicated & present student, making the most of every class.
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Jason Skinner is a kind-hearted, helps classmates, and makes learning fun.
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Avry Yonke makes sure everyone feels included and welcomed.
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Robert Prichard is always looking out for others and goes above and beyond without being asked.
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Aeryn Berquist's thoughtfulness shines in the little moments.
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Yani Anderson goes above and beyond even picking up trash at a little league game.
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Carla Olvera is a leader in the classroom and goes above and beyond to help students.
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Colby West has been an amazing friend to a student and makes sure that he feels included and welcomed.
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Kamryn Wells shows kindness, participates, and demonstrates all-around excellence. She’s always ready to share her ideas, support her classmates, and bring a bright, positive energy to our classroom every day.
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Nickolas Martinez always gives 100% in everything he does. He’s respectful, dependable, and the first to lend a hand when someone needs help. His positive attitude and strong work ethic make him a great role model in class.
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Camila Hernandez is a phenomenal student. She always puts her best foot forward in class and knows how to brighten anyone's day. Camila is not only a model student but also an amazing member of the ECJH Drill Team.
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Tyrin Williamson is an upbeat and comical student. He not only dominates in sports but also in the classroom. Tyrin is always striving to be the best student he can be, and he excels at it.
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Rush Todd is very patient with her peers, and she is always willing to help a classmate in need. She is also very respectful with her teachers and other adults on campus.
- Congratulations to our Rising Tide Recognitions:
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For September - We’re proud to honor the ECISD Education Foundation with our very first Rising Tide Recognition Award! The Foundation plays a vital role in lifting up East Chambers ISD by:
- Enhancing and enriching educational opportunities for students
- Supporting innovative efforts from our staff
- Recognizing exemplary teaching across our district
- Involving the community in our mission to ensure every Buccaneer has access to a quality education.
- Thank you, ECISD Education Foundation, for your unwavering dedication and support. Together, we’re raising the tide for all!
- For October - We’re thrilled to recognize Texas Health & Fitness and Mac’s Roofing, both owned by Sergio and Jeanette Salazar, as our September Rising Tide honorees! Their businesses go above and beyond to support ECISD—sponsoring events, volunteering, and providing prizes and incentives that lift our students, staff, and community. Thank you for making a real difference!
- Congratulations to Head Football Coach Russ Sutherland on his 200th career win vs. Buna! School Board President Scott Jones presented him with a recognition plaque.
- Congratulations to our September Golden Crewmate of the Month—Kylie Tipton, ECHS Cosmetology Teacher and our October Golden Crewmate of the Month–Mrs. Gerlufsen, EC Elementary 3rd grade teacher!
- Congratulations to the first ever inductees into the National Technical Honor Society at ECHS!
- Congrats to our EC Senior, McKenzie Tinkle, on being named the Senior Queen of the Texas Rice Festival!
- Congrats to EC Senior, Ray Stramecki, on winning the Texas Rice Festival Culinary Contest!
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East Chambers Education Foundation presents grants
Since the start of the school year, the East Chambers Education Foundation has presented nearly $29,000 in grants to fund innovative programs and resources that will enhance learning opportunities for students across East Chambers ISD.
Read about the grant recipients here.
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Thanks to the generosity of donors and the dedication of educators, these grants will continue to spark creativity, curiosity, and learning across East Chambers ISD. For more information, visit the Foundation’s website - https://www.ecisdef.com/ |
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November Board Summary
During the November 10th Board meeting, agenda items included: |
- Approval of the Campus Improvement Plans for 2025-26.
- Approval of an additional Speech Language Pathologist Assistant position.
- A report from Child Nutrition Department which showed an increase in income and meals served compared to last year. This has led to the addition of one worker at the Jr. High/High School campus.
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Board Recognitions
At the November school board meeting, ECJH students presented their House System — a campus-wide program that builds connection, leadership, and Buccaneer spirit! Board members even joined in the fun by spinning to find out which house they belong to.
At the October school board meeting, Mrs. Gerlufsen and her crew of creative thinkers — Brantley Bourque, Carter Tinnel, Stella Dreaden, and Shep Vayon — wowed everyone with their Learning with Legos presentation! These young engineers showed how they’re learning to design, build, and even code with Legos — turning playtime into problem-solving power!
In September, the ECISD Board of Trustees recognized retirees: Jennifer Smith, Darren Smith, Brenda East, Gena Campbell and Scott Campbell. State Representative Terri Leo-Wilson presented resolutions to Board Member Kelley Touchet for his induction to the THSBOA Hall of Honor and retired Superintendent Scott Campbell for his service to East Chambers ISD and education. Congratulations to all and thank you for your service!
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Board visits campuses through new program
In a new initiative designed to strengthen communication and celebrate the great things happening across East Chambers ISD, members of the ECISD Board of Trustees are taking part in annual campus walkthroughs.
Superintendent Andrea Smith and three board members — Lisa Bauer, Vice President; Charlotte Edwards, Secretary; and Jason Gardner — visited campuses across the district recently to meet students, teachers, and staff. The goal of these visits is to foster stronger connections between the board and the classroom, providing members a firsthand look at the engaging learning taking place every day.
The remaining four board members will participate in campus visits in January 2026, ensuring all trustees have the chance to engage directly with classrooms and district staff. |
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Finance, Facilities, Operations |
Understanding the Importance of Attendance
Daily, on-time student attendance is important to our students’ success. When students miss school—no matter the reason—they miss valuable instruction, peer collaboration, and critical learning experiences that build academic success. Absences can also affect classmates, as teachers may need to slow down lessons to help students catch up.
Our attendance rate last year was 94.2%. Our goal for the 2025-26 school year is 98%.
Even when our attendance rate seems high at 94.2%, school funding in Texas is based on Average Daily Attendance (ADA), not on enrollment. That means we only receive funding for students who are actually present each day, not for the total number of students who are enrolled in our district.
Here’s an easy way to picture it:
If 100 students are enrolled, but on any given day about six (6) students are absent, the state only funds us for 94 students, not 100.
That difference adds up quickly. Even one or two percentage points in ADA can mean hundreds of thousands of dollars in lost funding over the course of a school year for a district our size.
So while 94.2% may sound strong, and we are proud of our students’ attendance, it still means that on average, 5.8% of our students are not in attendance each day, and the state does not provide funding for those missed days.
Texas funds schools based on the students who are physically present each day. When students are absent, even if our overall attendance rate seems high, the district loses part of the funding needed for teachers, programs, and classroom resources.
Improving attendance is a team effort centered on students’ dedication, families’ support, and our staff’s encouragement in building strong attendance habits.
Here is what you can do to keep your child on track:
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- Only keep them home if they are truly ill.
- Schedule doctor appointments and vacations on non-school days. Click here to view the calendar.
- Maintain routines for eating, sleep, and homework even on non-school days.
- Alert a counselor or your child’s teacher if there is something happening at school that has your child thinking twice about attending.
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Nov. 18 - ECE Thanksgiving Feast, 3rd & 5th
Nov. 19 - ECE Turkey Trot
Nov. 19 - ECE Thanksgiving Feast, 4th
Nov. 20 - ECP Thanksgiving Feast, 1st & 2nd
Nov. 21 - ECP Thanksgiving Feast, PreK & K
Nov. 24-28 - No School
Dec. 1 - ECP PTO Meeting
Dec. 4 - Progress Reports Go Home
Dec. 4 - YES Parent Program (HS)
Dec. 8 - School Board Meeting, 6 p.m.
Dec. 8-10 - ECP PTO Holiday Store
Dec. 9-11 - ECE Christmas Store
Dec. 16 - ECE PTO Meeting, 5:30 p.m.
Dec. 18 - ECP Polar Express/Santa Claus Visit
Dec. 19 - ECP, ECE Holiday Party Day
Dec. 22-Jan. 2 - No School |
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