Campus Chronicles - February 19, 2025
Lisa Valadez | 2/18/2025, 3:31 p.m.
Pasadena ISD Student Wins Regional Spanish Spelling Bee, Advances to State
Rogelio Lopez
Kendrick Middle School sixth grader Rogelio Lopez emerged as the top speller in the Region IV Spanish Spelling Bee on February 5, 2025, securing first place in the middle school division. With his victory, Lopez has earned a spot in the statewide competition set for June.
Lopez’s success is the result of months of dedication and preparation. He and his mother practiced daily, using a rigorous study routine. “She had me write down all the words on a piece of paper, like a spelling test,” Lopez said. “If I got one wrong, I’d redo it three times each.”
Grateful for the support of his parents, classmates, and teacher, Mrs. Garcia, Lopez acknowledges the role they played in his journey. With six months until the state competition, he plans to intensify his training.
Lopez, who has previously competed in English spelling bees, was eager to participate in a contest that celebrated his first language. “My first language is Spanish, so if there was ever a Spanish one, I wanted to compete in it,” he said.
For fellow students interested in competing, Lopez offers simple but powerful advice: “Believe you can do it, and you can.”
Fort Bend ISD:
Four Fort Bend ISD Schools Earn Gold Ribbon Distinction
Fort Bend ISD elementary schools' Holley, Jordan, Hunters Glen, and Mission West
Children at Risk evaluates schools in the Greater Houston Area based on student achievement, performance, and growth, with high schools also assessed for college readiness.
In addition, several FBISD schools received top ratings, with Clements High School and 10 elementary campuses earning an A grade. To view the full rankings, visit the 2023-24 Children at Risk annual school report.
Klein ISD Students Offer Free Tax Preparation Services
Tax services are available by appointment at two locations: Klein Oak High School (22603 Northcrest Drive) and Klein Cain High School (10201 Spring Cypress Road). Eligible individuals can schedule an appointment by emailing kleinoakvita@kleinisd.net or kleincainvita@kleinisd.net.
Clients must bring necessary documents, including a government-issued photo ID, Social Security or ITIN cards, W-2s, and documentation of income and expenses.
Houston’s Naomi Alade Wins Gold at 2025 Canada Open in Montréal
HISD Carnegie High School's Naomi Alade Naomi Alade, a standout athlete from Carnegie High School, claimed the gold medal in the senior female +73kg category at the 2025 Canada Open in Montréal. Representing Houston Independent School District, Alade triumphed over top competitors from Puerto Rico, Canada, and Spain to secure her victory.
Her dominant performance in the international competition further solidifies her status as a rising star in the sport. Currently ranked No. 10 in the world and No. 8 in Olympic rankings, Alade continues to make significant strides toward the global stage.
With this latest achievement, she adds another milestone to her growing career, showcasing not only her skill but also her determination on the road to even more success!
