United Independent School District is thrilled to launch its new Exceptional Abilities Student of the Month for Perfect Attendance Program, a heartfelt initiative created to honor the commitment, resilience, and daily efforts of some of our most determined achievers. During this inaugural celebration, UISD proudly recognized two inspiring students: Joel Garcia III and Javier Fernando Jimenez.
This new initiative, passionately championed and supported by UISD Board President Javier Montemayor (District 5) and Board Member/Secretary Michelle Molina (District 6), celebrates more than just perfect attendance. It shines a light on students in special education who demonstrate leadership, personal growth, good grades, classroom citizenship, overall Positive Behavior Interventions & Supports (PBIS) and the kind of perseverance that uplifts our school communities.
"Across the district, we honor students of the month with big ceremonies,” said Molina. “We wanted to extend that same level of celebration and recognition to include our exceptional students. We're talking about those who work incredibly hard each day, often with extra challenges, and still show up, give their best, and inspire us all. We also recognize the essential role our parents, teachers and aides play in guiding and supporting these students along the way."
The first honoree, Joel Garcia III, a 6th grader at Lamar Bruni Vergara Middle School, has not missed a single day of school since kindergarten. That’s six full years of perfect attendance. “I like to study. I like everything. I feel excited and happy,” Joel shared as he smiled from ear to ear. His mother, Karla Garcia, added, “He wakes up early, we don’t struggle with him at all. He has his own alarm and everything. We’re so happy he’s being recognized and even more so him, because he didn’t expect this.”
Javier Fernando Jimenez, a fifth grader at Veterans Memorial Elementary, was honored for his consistency and dedication. Joined by his proud parents and sister, Javier’s presence lit up the ceremony. His story represents the values UISD aims to nurture in all its students, including responsibility, persistence, and pride in learning.
“Our students are capable of amazing things,” said Board President Javier Montemayor. “This program is not just focused on attendance but on also celebrating students who show us what’s possible with the right support, love, and commitment from families and educators. We believe this new program will uplift our most vulnerable learners and motivate all students to do their best, every single day.”
UISD remains committed to supporting and recognizing the unique strengths of every student. Through initiatives like the Exceptional Abilities Student of the Month, the district hopes to encourage all students to strive for excellence every day as we celebrate the student and the village behind each child’s journey to success. Each month, the UISD students selected will represent their campus and will also be given a medal, certificate, and t-shirt that reads, “Attendance Matters. Exceptional. Unstoppable. UISD Proud with Perfect Attendance to prove it!”
Congratulations to Joel Garcia III and Javier Fernando Jimenez for setting an example for us all!!
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