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Taylor Independent School District

Intentionally empowering the whole child

In The Loop Staff Newsletter - June 2026

Posted Date: 06/04/26 (05:12 PM)


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In The Loop With Taylor ISD

Staff Newsletter

June 4, 2026

Superintendent Message

Dear Taylor ISD Team,

As another school year comes to a close, I've been thinking about everything our campuses accomplished and how none of it happens without the people in this district.

Teaching and supporting students is not easy work. It requires patience, creativity, and a genuine commitment to showing up every day, especially on the hard days. Our Taylor ISD team does that consistently, and I don't take that for granted.

I hope this summer gives you real time to rest, not just a long weekend, but meaningful, unhurried time. Spend time with the people you love, do something that fills you up, and come back in August ready for what's next.

Later this month, we’ll share an update once the Board considers the 2026-2027 compensation package presented.

We welcome students back on August 12, and I know we'll be ready. Rest, relax, and recharge in the meantime. Thank you for everything you do for our students and our community.

Wishing you a wonderful summer!

~Jen
Jennifer Garcia-Edwardsen, Ph.D.
Taylor ISD Superintendent
 

Around the District

TISD Retirees in rocking chairs
TISD Retirees in rocking chairs

Thank you to our retirees for your faithful service!

As part of our End-of-Year Teacher and Staff Celebration, Taylor ISD proudly recognized this year’s retirees, individuals who have dedicated their careers to serving our students, schools, and community.

Each retiree leaves behind a lasting impact through the countless lives they’ve touched, the relationships they’ve built, and the commitment they’ve shown to education. Their years of service reflect not only professional excellence, but a deep care for the success and well-being of every student who walked through their classrooms and campuses.

We are grateful for their contributions and the legacy they leave in Taylor ISD. While they may be closing this chapter, their influence will continue to be felt for years to come. We wish our retirees all the best in this well-earned next chapter.
 

May Superintendent’s 1+ Coin of Excellence 🏅🌟

This month's Superintendent 1+ Coin of Excellence recipients are THS senior Rylee Michna and Color Guard Director Marcie Svatek!

🎾 Rylee Michna, Taylor High School senior, continues to excel both in and out of the classroom. A member of the Class of 2026 Valedictorian class and a 4-time UIL 4A State Tennis Champion, Rylee exemplifies excellence as a student, athlete, leader, and friend.

💚 Mrs. Marcie Svatek, Color Guard Director at Taylor High School, continues to make a lasting impact through her leadership and dedication. Under her guidance, the program has grown and earned recognition as one of the largest and top-performing color guards in Texas.

We are grateful for their commitment, passion, and the example they set for our students and community. Congratulations on this well-deserved recognition!
 
Poster announcing FREE Seamless Summer MEALS for children 18 and under from Taylor ISD.
Taylor ISD offers free summer bulk meals for kids 18 and under from June 15 to July 30, 2026.

Free summer meals available for all Taylor children

Taylor ISD is offering free, nutritious meals to children throughout the summer, helping ensure students stay healthy and ready to enjoy the summer break.

Through the Seamless Summer Option (SSO), a U.S. Department of Agriculture program, children 18 and younger, as well as enrolled students with disabilities up to age 21, can receive meals at no cost while school is out.

Meal Sites and Times
T.H. Johnson Elementary
Monday-Thursday (Closed Fridays)
June 1 - June 25
Breakfast: 7:30-8:30 AM
Lunch: 11:30 AM-12:00 PM

Taylor Middle School
Monday-Thursday (Closed Fridays)
June 1 - June 25
Breakfast: 8:00-8:30 AM
Lunch: 12:00-12:30 PM

Taylor High School
THS will offer bulk meal pickup beginning June 15. Families can pick up meals twice each week at Taylor High School. Monday pickups provide meals through Thursday, while Thursday pickups provide meals through Monday breakfast.

Pickup Times:
Mondays: 9:00-11:00 a.m.
Thursdays: 4:00-6:00 p.m.

A student, birth certificate, report card, or other proof of guardianship is required on the first visit. Families are encouraged to register in advance and take advantage of this opportunity to help keep students nourished throughout the summer.

Families can also find additional meal sites by calling 2-1-1 or visiting SummerFood.org.
We’re proud to support our students and families all summer long.
 

Summer activities for students and families

Looking for ways to stay active and connected this summer? Taylor ISD is offering a variety of summer camps for students, including basketball, baseball, tennis, and soccer camps led by our coaches and staff.

In addition, the City of Taylor is hosting a variety of summer programs, events, and activities for families to enjoy throughout the season.

Whether your child is trying a new sport, building skills, or simply staying active, there are plenty of opportunities to learn, grow, and have fun this summer. We encourage families to explore the available programs and make the most of the summer months.

Click the link below to see details on summer activities. 
Learn More
 
A group of graduates in green gowns and caps pose for a photo in front of a banner.
Graduates in green gowns celebrate under a fireworks display at night.

Celebrating the Class of 2026 at the Duck Pond

Taylor High School proudly celebrated the Class of 2026 with a memorable graduation ceremony at the Duck Pond, continuing a cherished community tradition. With the weather holding just in time, families, staff, and supporters gathered to honor our seniors as they took their next steps beyond high school.

The evening was highlighted by meaningful speeches from Class President Zoe Telles-Carrizales, Salutatorian Farrah Elliott, and Valedictorian Rylee Michna. Each speaker reflected on the journey of this class and the strong connections they’ve built along the way, capturing both the pride and promise of the moment.

We are incredibly proud of our graduates and look forward to all they will accomplish in the years ahead. No matter where their paths may lead, they will always have a place to come home to.

See more photos at the links below.
THS Graduation Photos
Diploma Photos
 
Graduates in caps and gowns toss their graduation caps in the air on stage.
A graduating student in a cap and gown holds a diploma, surrounded by proud family members.

Congratulations to the Legacy ECHS Class of 2026

This year’s graduation marked two milestones for a group of students who have balanced the demands of both high school and college coursework to build a strong foundation for their future.

In early May, Legacy seniors crossed the stage at Temple College to earn their associate degrees. Just days later, they walked the stage again to receive their high school diplomas, celebrating not one, but two major accomplishments.

With at least 60 college credit hours already completed, these graduates are halfway to a bachelor’s degree and well on their way to what comes next. Their success reflects both their dedication and the strength of the opportunities available through Legacy Early College High School.

It was a night that captured the work they’ve put in and the opportunities ahead. We are so proud of this group and can’t wait to see where their journey takes them next.
LECHS Graduation Photos
Diploma Photos
 
Two young men proudly hold certificates of 8th-grade completion in a school gymnasium.

Celebrating the future Class of 2030 at Taylor MS 🦆🎓

Taylor Middle School proudly celebrated its 8th grade students during the annual Bridging Ceremony, marking the completion of their middle school journey and the exciting transition to high school.

Surrounded by families, teachers, and friends, students reflected on their growth and accomplishments while looking ahead to the opportunities that await them in high school. The ceremony served as a meaningful milestone, recognizing both how far they’ve come and the bright path in front of them.

We are incredibly proud of this group of students and look forward to seeing all they will achieve in the next four years at THS and Legacy ECHS. The future is bright for the Class of 2030.
TMS Graduation Photos
 
Kinder students stand on risers at graduation

THJ kindergarten graduation marks first big milestone

While our seniors and 8th graders marked major milestones, some of our youngest learners were celebrating a big achievement of their own.

Taylor ISD kindergarten students recently wrapped up a year filled with learning, growth, new friendships, and unforgettable moments as they officially graduated and took their first step forward in their educational journey.

We are incredibly proud of our little Ducks and all they’ve accomplished up to this point. Their excitement, curiosity, and determination set the stage for a great future ahead.

Congratulations to the Class of 2038, the journey is just beginning, and the future awaits. ✨🦆
 
THS Local Scholarship Awards

Local Scholarship Awards: Celebrating scholarship and community support

Taylor High School seniors were recently recognized at the annual Local Scholarship Awards Ceremony, where families, educators, and community partners gathered to celebrate their achievements and the bright futures ahead.

This year, more than 150 scholarships totaling $180,000 were awarded, reflecting the incredible support our community continues to show for Taylor ISD students. These investments not only help open doors, but also strengthen dreams and build confidence as our graduates take their next steps.

We are deeply grateful to the generous donors who make this opportunity possible year after year. This ceremony serves as a powerful reminder that in Taylor, our students are supported every step of the way, even beyond graduation.
 
TISD trustees sworn in

Welcoming our Board of Trustees members 🦆

Taylor ISD is proud to recognize and welcome members of our Board of Trustees following their recent swearing-in ceremony.

We extend our appreciation to Shorty Mitchell on his re-election and continued service to the district. Now entering his 21st year, Mr. Mitchell’s service reflects a deep and lasting commitment to the students and community of Taylor ISD.

We also warmly welcome Rachael Westerman, who was officially sworn in and begins her service to our students, families, and broader community.

School board members play a vital role in shaping the direction and future of our district. We are grateful for their leadership, dedication, and willingness to serve.