It's hard to believe we are already nearing the end of October! This is certainly one of the busiest times of the school year. Between classroom learning, athletic events, fine arts performances, extracurricular activities, and campus celebrations, Whitehouse ISD has no shortage of excitement. It's a great time to be a Wildcat!
Last week, we recognized Texas Safe Schools Week (October 19–23), an important reminder that keeping our schools safe is a responsibility we all share. When we talk about school safety, we often think about secure buildings, emergency procedures, and safety protocols. While those things are important, school safety is about much more. It's about creating an environment where every student feels safe, supported, connected, and ready to learn.
Recently, through our Inside Whitehouse ISD series, we've highlighted some of the people and processes that help make this possible. From the many layers of safety and security on our campuses to the work of our Transportation Department in keeping students safe on the road, there is a tremendous amount of work happening behind the scenes each day. We've also highlighted the important role our counselors play in helping students make healthy, informed decisions, particularly during Red Ribbon Week.
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These stories remind us that school safety isn't the responsibility of one person or one department. It's a team effort. Our teachers, administrators, counselors, bus drivers, support staff, students, families, and community members all have a role to play. Whether it's building positive relationships, encouraging students to speak up when something doesn't seem right, or simply treating others with kindness and respect, the little things we do each day make a difference. |
As we move into November, I want to thank our families for your continued partnership. We know this is a busy season for everyone, and we appreciate the time you invest in supporting your children and our schools. Your involvement, encouragement, and communication help us build the school community we all want for our students.
Thank you for being part of the Wildcat family and for helping make Whitehouse ISD a place where students can learn, grow, and succeed.
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Our Whitehouse High School Wildcat Band continues to give us plenty to be proud of! After earning straight Division I ratings from every judge at the UIL Region 21 Marching Contest, the band advanced to the UIL State Military Marching Contest, where they earned a spot in the finals and finished 4th in the state!
This outstanding achievement reflects the countless hours of practice, hard work and dedication these students have put in throughout the season. Congratulations to our talented musicians, directors, and everyone who helped make this such a memorable marching season!
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October is National Principals Month, and I want to recognize the outstanding leaders who serve our students and staff every day. Our principals wear many hats, but their commitment to creating schools where students feel supported, challenged and encouraged never wavers.
Please join me in thanking these incredible Wildcat leaders for all they do!
Mr. Little – Brown Elementary
Mrs. Blain – Cain Elementary
Mrs. Porche – Higgins Elementary
Mr. Dean – Stanton-Smith Elementary
Mrs. Groppel – Holloway 6th Grade
Mr. Holder – Whitehouse Junior High
Mr. Speights – Whitehouse High School
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October brings plenty of fun to our campuses, from spooky storytimes to pumpkin decorating contests and other fall festivities. There's no shortage of creativity and excitement across our schools this time of year!
But October also brings an important opportunity to talk with students about making safe, healthy choices. During Red Ribbon Week, our counselors help students build the knowledge and confidence to make good decisions, with lessons that grow and change right along with them.
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As part of our ongoing efforts to keep students safe and supported, Whitehouse ISD will administer a short, anonymous bullying prevention survey to students in grades 3–12 next month, as required by the State of Texas.
The survey will help us better understand students' experiences with bullying, their sense of safety at school and whether they know where to turn for help.
For questions or more information about the survey, please contact your child's campus counselor.
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The Texas Education Agency's Parent Access to Supplemental Supports (PASS) program offers eligible families a $400 grant to help cover approved reading tutoring services.
The program is currently available to families of students who did not meet grade level on the spring 2026 third-grade Reading Language Arts STAAR assessment. Families can create an account through the PASS Portal, apply for their child and, if approved, select an eligible tutoring provider.
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For many of our students, the school day begins long before they reach their classroom. During National School Bus Safety Week, we took a closer look at the work our Transportation Department does to safely get students to and from school each day.
From planning routes to helping families stay informed, our recent Inside Whitehouse ISD feature takes you behind the scenes to see what goes into keeping our buses running and our Wildcats safe.
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Thank you, families, for your flexibility with our early release days this semester. This protected time allows our teachers to collaborate, review student progress and plan meaningful lessons.
October 28 marked our last early release for teacher planning this semester. We appreciate your support in making this valuable time possible!
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As we look toward the holiday season, Project Joy is once again partnering with Whitehouse ISD to provide food and gifts to families who may need a little extra help.
Families who would benefit from assistance this holiday season are encouraged to complete the Project Joy request form or contact their child's school counselor for help or questions. Forms must be submitted by Friday, November 20, at 10:00 a.m.
For those looking for an opportunity to give back, watch for ways to support Project Joy through your child's campus.
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Early voting for the November election continues through Friday, October 30, with Election Day on Tuesday, November 3. Voting is an important opportunity to make your voice heard, and I encourage you to take time to become informed and participate.
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The Superintendent's Student Advisory Council recently met to share feedback and perspectives on several topics impacting the student experience. We discussed food service, passing periods, and hall pass procedures. Students shared their experiences, identified challenges, and offered suggestions for improvement. Their feedback provides valuable insight as we continue working to make Whitehouse ISD a better place for all students. We appreciate their willingness to share their voices and help shape decisions that impact their schools. |
Yesterday, we were honored to welcome veterans and first responders to our annual appreciation breakfast. Coming from a family with both veterans and first responders, this event is especially meaningful to me. It's always a privilege to thank these men and women for their service and to see our students express their appreciation. |
Congratulations to Whitehouse High School senior Renna Watson, who has been named a Commended Student in the 2027 National Merit Scholarship Program!
This recognition is based on her outstanding performance on the PSAT/NMSQT and places her among a select group of academically talented students recognized nationwide. We're proud of Renna and excited to celebrate this well-earned achievement!
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We have an exciting first to celebrate! Rowland Hogg is the first graduate of our new Wildcat Academy!
Rowland brought plenty of energy and personality to the program, and he's already looking ahead to his next chapter. He plans to attend TSTC in Marshall in January to pursue welding.
Congratulations, Rowland! We're proud of you and can't wait to see what comes next.
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Each week, we continue to recognize students who demonstrate the leadership, kindness and character that make our schools special. There are Wildcats doing great things across our district every day, and we love having the opportunity to celebrate them! |
November is right around the corner, and there's plenty happening across Whitehouse ISD! Our fall activities are keeping students busy, and we're excited to cheer on our Ladycats as they take on Lovejoy in the first round of volleyball playoffs tonight at Mabank High School! The game is expected to begin between 7:00 and 8:00 p.m., depending on when the preceding game concludes. Congratulations to these athletes and coaches on a great season, and best of luck tonight!
Be sure to check our district and campus calendars for upcoming events and opportunities to support our students.
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There's so much to be proud of across Whitehouse ISD, and I look forward to seeing what our Wildcats accomplish next. I hope you and your family enjoy all that makes this season special. Go Wildcats!
Casey Whittle, Ed.D
Superintendent of Schools, Whitehouse ISD
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