March 7, 2025
Tiger Pride in Action - A Week of Teamwork and Engagement
This week, I had the chance to see Tiger Pride in action across our district and community. From our classrooms to our buses, from our maintenance and transportation teams to our dedicated educators and elected officials, it takes all of us working together to provide the best for our students.
On Tuesday I had the honor of being formally introduced at the Mercedes City Commission meeting, where I reflected on the deep sense of Tiger Pride that runs throughout both our district and the city. Our success as a school district is also the City of Mercedes’ success, and moving forward together means progress for all.
I was proud to share this moment with district staff, students, and parents, as members of the Mercedes High School Criminal Justice Club, Mercedes Transition Academy, and Special Education department were recognized by the Commission for their leadership in organizing an upcoming Autism Awareness and Acceptance event. It is inspiring to see our students take the lead in such meaningful initiatives, reinforcing the power of education, student advocacy, and community partnerships.
The power of teamwork and unity was also on display when I visited Taylor Elementary as part of National Reading Month and read to Kindergarten and second-grade students. I shared one of my favorites, Chicka Chicka Boom Boom, with the Kindergarteners, and we ended together with a fun, rhythmic ABC chant. With the second graders, I was “set up” (I was in on it!) to read The Book with No Pictures, a book that makes adults say silly things—it was a great time filled with laughter and learning.
Earlier in the week, I attended Mercedes High School’s Open House, where I had the opportunity to listen to P-TECH students present their research projects. Their professionalism and dedication to their work were impressive, and their willingness to engage and share their ideas showcased what Tiger Pride is all about. Seeing students take ownership of their learning in such a meaningful way was truly inspiring.
That same commitment to excellence was evident at the Mercedes Early College Academy (MECA) Senior Class Panoramic Photo and Top Ten Reveal. I am incredibly proud of these students and excited about what is in store for them next, but even more so about what they have in store for our community. MECA shares a campus with the Mercedes Early Literacy and Head Start program, and in the time between the panoramic photo and the Top Ten reveal, I watched a group of three-year-olds playing outside. It was a powerful reminder of the full scope of our mission—providing the very best for our students from early childhood through postsecondary education.
Providing great learning experiences for students also means ensuring they have the right environments to thrive. This week, I met with our Facilities Committee to discuss how we can continue improving the spaces where teaching and learning happen every day. As part of this work, I toured all district properties with our Maintenance Director, gaining firsthand insight into our facilities and their needs. I eagerly anticipate reviewing the Innovative Schools survey data from students, staff, parents, and the community to ensure our decisions reflect both data and stakeholder input. Your voices matter, and I’m committed to listening. Tiger Pride is not just about spirit—it’s about making sure our students have the best possible spaces to learn and grow.
Beyond the classrooms and facilities, so many dedicated individuals keep our district running smoothly. On Thursday morning, I had the opportunity to ride along with one of our veteran bus drivers, Mr. Domingo Garces, where I met several students on his route. Our bus drivers and the entire transportation department play a crucial role in our schools, and their work in providing a safe ride for our students is essential. Riding the bus gave me an even greater appreciation for the hard work our staff does.
That same appreciation carried into Friday, when we celebrated Maintenance Appreciation Day. I was pleased to share breakfast with our maintenance staff, who are a vital part of our district, ensuring that our schools function effectively. I truly enjoyed spending time and socializing with both the maintenance and transportation teams; they are wonderful people who contribute significantly to our community.
This week reinforced that it takes all of us, working together as a team, to move our district forward. From our youngest learners to our graduating seniors, from those in the classroom to those who work behind the scenes, every role matters in shaping the future of our students. Thank you all for the work you do to support our schools and our students
Forward Together,
Dr. Benjamin Clinton
Superintendent of Schools
Mercedes ISD