A packed house at the Mineola Primary School cafetorium celebrated student success for almost an hour Monday.

Trustees recognized the students of the month and teachers of the year from each campus, then turned to the primary and intermediate school students who captured first place in the district UIL competition. Some 85 students and 17 coaches were involved, many of whom were present, supported by numerous family and friends.

Next up, the district champion middle school one-act play cast was recognized.

Sports accolades followed for high school volleyball and football.

The Mineola cheer squad was recognized for making the state finals and then placing 12th among the 20 teams that advanced, moving up from 20th place.

The final recognition went to school board member Jay McGough and high school Principal Chase Thomas who coincidentally arrived on the scene of an early morning house fire at N. Newsom and Patten Streets on Jan. 16, awakened the residents and helped them to escape unharmed.

Once the throng cleared, the board got down to the more routine business of staff changes and approvals.

Retirements were announced for Coach Derek Smith, teacher Stacy Wedding and aide Sheronda London, each of whom has more than 30 years in education.

Resignations were accepted from fifth grade teacher Ashley Scott, 4th grade teacher James Tadrzak and kindergarten teacher Tamara Turner.

Camron Frazier was introduced as the new assistant principal for Mineola High School. He holds the same position in Quitman.

Assistant principal Adam McMahon has been promoted to principal and Chase Thomas to assistant superintendent following the retirement of David Sauer at the end of the school year.

All the principals, assistant principals and directors’ contracts were renewed, including athletic director Luke Blackwell, fine arts director Jim Best, assistant superintendent for finance Keith Sparkman, director of curriculum and instruction Melisia Foster, transportation director Bill Self, student services and records coordinator Marquita Stottern, principals Brittany Thompson-middle school, Angela Shine-intermediate and Jole Ray-primary and assistants Joshua Snook-middle school, Nick Kelley-intermediate and James Knabenshue-primary.

New hires include Justin Crow as assistant athletic director and offensive coordinator. He has been the athletic director at Elysian Fields.

Cordelle Smith will also fill a coaching position, coming from West Rusk.

Mackenzie Stokes was hired for fifth grade science.

Superintendent Cody Mize announced the district’s grants from the Meredith Foundation to include $50,000 for scholarships and $100,000 for band instruments.

Trustees agreed to place a suggestion from board member Jeffery White to build an indoor practice facility on a list of items to discuss in future long-range planning.

McGough said he likes the idea, but the district has other things to accomplish such as teacher pay raises.

Trustees took a first look at the 2025-26 school calendar, with classes to begin Aug. 14 and end May 22.