At last night’s November board meeting, the following presentations were recognized during Achievement Spotlights.
STEAM Academy at Mambrino principal Melissa Shipp and assistant principals Jessica Johnson and Molly Whisenhunt shared a campus update with the board while also highlighting the incredible academic growth and campus culture.
- Mambrino at a Glance:
The campus now serves 830 students, with specialized programming that includes 3 life skills classrooms, 3 structured learning classrooms, 1 low-incidence classroom, and a robust STEAM transfer program that brings students from across the district through an annual application process. - STEAM Innovation:
Mambrino’s STEAM model provides a hands-on, inquiry-driven experience through Project Lead the Way and design-thinking principles — encouraging creativity, problem-solving, and authentic learning every day. - Campus Culture & CKH:
As a Capturing Kids’ Hearts Rising Star School, Mambrino continues to build a strong, relationship-centered culture with social contracts, daily “good things,” leadership roles, and an excellent school-home connection. - Academic Achievement:
Mambrino’s commitment to quality instruction is paying off — climbing to an overall rating of 80 (B) and making an academic growth jump of 12 points in just two years! Mambrino has jumped 13 points in two years to receive a B-rating! Students are thriving with intentional planning and support designed for all learners. - Community & Student Engagement:
From Student Buddies and Unified Robotics to CAST for Kids, YMCA field trips, Academic UIL, DADvocates service projects, and grade-level community drives, Mambrino continues to give students meaningful ways to lead, serve, and shine. - STEAM Ambassadors:
A special shoutout to the STEAM Ambassadors, led by Randi McPhate, who proudly represented their campus:
Lauren Hinig • Arabella Lee • Brooke Smith • Kennedy Salt • Holden Spirlock • Aurora Stephan • Trisha Wences. Not pictured: Kimalee Payne, Brooke Petty
Each month, a Granbury ISD campus will present an update to the board. Granbury ISD is proud of the amazing work happening at Mambrino and across the district!
JC Campbell Veterans Day Essay Contest Winners
Granbury ISD proudly recognized the campus and district winners of the JC Campbell Legacy of Service Essay Contest — a tradition that honors the spirit of service, sacrifice, and patriotism.
A special thank-you goes to our generous supporters: Carrie Bellamy with Edward Jones, Bob and Julia Pannell, and the Friends of Memorial Lane. Your commitment makes this meaningful opportunity possible for our students.
We also celebrated the incredible artwork on display from Granbury High School art students, led by Sara Meadows. Their work beautifully captured the heart of Veterans Day.
Elementary Campus Winners
• Acton Elementary – Madilyn Clubb
• Baccus Elementary – Emma Worthey
• Brawner Elementary – Dayanna Lopez
• Mambrino Elementary – Arabella Lee
• Oak Woods School – Cooper Copeland — Elementary District Winner
Secondary Campus Winners
• Acton Middle School – Matthew Nolley
• Granbury Middle School – Cambrie Smith
• STARS – Misty Meyers
• Granbury High School – Sophie Ellis — Secondary District Winner
Congratulations to all of our students for their thoughtful work and for representing the values this contest celebrates.
Cross Country Senior Gannon Dolan Goes to State
The Board of Trustees proudly recognized Granbury High School senior Gannon Dolan for advancing to the UIL 5A State Cross Country Meet. Introduced by head coach Amber Adams, Gannon was honored for an outstanding season — winning four meets, finishing 2nd at the District meet, qualifying for Regionals in Lubbock, and placing 8th there to secure his trip to State in Austin. Congratulations, Gannon!
Shottenkirk Senior of the Month
Shottenkirk Senior of the Month: Gisselle Umanzor. Gisselle has a heart for service and love of music that shines brightly across our community. Gisselle plans to pursue a career in radiation therapy, inspired by a desire to support individuals fighting cancer and make a meaningful impact in their lives. At Granbury High School, she’s an active member of the Pirate Band and a dedicated volunteer, giving her time to places like Waterview Memory Care, where she builds connections with residents living with dementia and Alzheimer’s.
Her compassion, talent, and commitment to serving others reflect the very best of what it means to be a Pirate.
