Please join us in welcoming Michael Reitan as Alto ISD's new Animal Science Teacher and FFA Advisor!
Mr. Reitan begins his ninth year in agricultural education and is excited to share his passion for agriculture with Alto students. He and his wife, Laura, have been married for 17 years and have two children, Ben and Sarah. Their family lives on a small farm in Laneville, where they raise cattle and dairy goats. Over the years, they've also welcomed more than a few stray animals that have found their way to the farm.
Mr. Reitan says he is thankful and honored for the opportunity to become a member of the Alto ISD family, and we are excited to welcome him!
Mr. Reitan begins his ninth year in agricultural education and is excited to share his passion for agriculture with Alto students. He and his wife, Laura, have been married for 17 years and have two children, Ben and Sarah. Their family lives on a small farm in Laneville, where they raise cattle and dairy goats. Over the years, they've also welcomed more than a few stray animals that have found their way to the farm.
Mr. Reitan says he is thankful and honored for the opportunity to become a member of the Alto ISD family, and we are excited to welcome him!
Please join us in welcoming Dr. Zach Crawford as he officially begins his service as Superintendent of Alto ISD!
We are excited about the leadership, vision, and dedication he brings to our district. We're glad the Crawford family is here, and we're looking forward to all that we'll accomplish together in the years ahead. 🖤💛
We are excited about the leadership, vision, and dedication he brings to our district. We're glad the Crawford family is here, and we're looking forward to all that we'll accomplish together in the years ahead. 🖤💛
All Alto ISD district offices will be closed June 26–July 3. Offices will reopen Monday, July 6. Have a safe and happy holiday week! 💛🖤
Today, we would like to extend a heartfelt THANK YOU to Mr. Andy Trekell!
Mr. Trekell graciously stepped in to serve as Alto ISD's Interim Superintendent for the past three weeks, providing steady leadership and support during this transition period. His willingness to serve our students, staff, and community has been greatly appreciated.
Thank you for coming out of retirement for us, Mr. Trekell! Now it's time to get back to enjoying retirement—and those grandbabies! 💛🖤
“A father is someone you look up to, no matter how tall you grow."
Happy Father’s Day, Jacket Dads! 💛🖤
Today, we recognize Juneteenth, a significant day in Texas and American history.
Juneteenth commemorates June 19, 1865, when Union soldiers arrived in Galveston and announced that enslaved African Americans were free—more than two years after the Emancipation Proclamation had been issued.
As Texans, this day holds special significance as we reflect on our history and celebrate the values of freedom, opportunity, and unity. At Alto ISD, we are committed to helping students learn from the past as they build a brighter future.
Alto ISD is excited to introduce Ms. Sherri Newbury as the new Principal of Alto High School. Ms. Newbury brings more than 20 years of experience in education, serving as a teacher, coach, assistant principal, and most recently as Alto High School's Student Services Administrator. She holds a Master of Educational Leadership from Stephen F. Austin State University and is passionate about building strong relationships, fostering school pride, and creating opportunities for every student to thrive.
For the past four years, Ms. Newbury has worked alongside Mrs. Dorsey, serving the students, staff, and families of Alto High School as Student Services Administrator. During that time, she has played an integral role in supporting student success, campus programs, school safety, testing coordination, and post-secondary readiness initiatives.
As a familiar face on campus and a dedicated member of the Alto ISD family, Ms. Newbury is excited to continue the tradition of excellence at Alto High School while leading the campus into an exciting new chapter. Please join us in congratulating Ms. Newbury on her new role as Principal of Alto High School!
For the past four years, Ms. Newbury has worked alongside Mrs. Dorsey, serving the students, staff, and families of Alto High School as Student Services Administrator. During that time, she has played an integral role in supporting student success, campus programs, school safety, testing coordination, and post-secondary readiness initiatives.
As a familiar face on campus and a dedicated member of the Alto ISD family, Ms. Newbury is excited to continue the tradition of excellence at Alto High School while leading the campus into an exciting new chapter. Please join us in congratulating Ms. Newbury on her new role as Principal of Alto High School!
Parents of Returning Students – It's Time to Register for the 2026-2027 School Year!
Thank you to the approximately 25% of families who have already completed returning student registration. If you haven't registered your student yet, please take a few minutes to do so as soon as possible. Registration can be completed online here:
https://portals07.ascendertx.com/ParentPortal/login?distid=037901
If you need assistance or have any questions, please contact Mrs. Middleton at amiddleton@alto.esc7.net or 936-858-7115. Thank you for helping us prepare for a great year at Alto ISD! 💛🖤
Thank you to the approximately 25% of families who have already completed returning student registration. If you haven't registered your student yet, please take a few minutes to do so as soon as possible. Registration can be completed online here:
https://portals07.ascendertx.com/ParentPortal/login?distid=037901
If you need assistance or have any questions, please contact Mrs. Middleton at amiddleton@alto.esc7.net or 936-858-7115. Thank you for helping us prepare for a great year at Alto ISD! 💛🖤
Over half of today’s most popular shows include substance use — and seeing it on screen makes teens more likely to experiment themselves (source: Truth Initiative).
👉 93% of movies teens watch portray alcohol use
👉 22% reference illicit drugs
👉 Exposure to R‑rated movies doubles the risk of smoking
Parents can make a real impact by co‑viewing and asking questions that spark critical thinking:
👉 “What’s the message behind this scene?”
👉 “What consequences aren’t being shown?”
Helping teens recognize the manipulation behind glamorized substance use builds awareness, confidence, and resilience. Download your Prevention Playbook to guide meaningful conversations at angelinacoalition.org/resources.
The Drug-Free Council program is funded by a grant from TxDOT to reduce the number of alcohol-related crashes in Texas. #DriveLikeATexan #PreventionPlaybook #ParentingTeens #TeenSafety
👉 93% of movies teens watch portray alcohol use
👉 22% reference illicit drugs
👉 Exposure to R‑rated movies doubles the risk of smoking
Parents can make a real impact by co‑viewing and asking questions that spark critical thinking:
👉 “What’s the message behind this scene?”
👉 “What consequences aren’t being shown?”
Helping teens recognize the manipulation behind glamorized substance use builds awareness, confidence, and resilience. Download your Prevention Playbook to guide meaningful conversations at angelinacoalition.org/resources.
The Drug-Free Council program is funded by a grant from TxDOT to reduce the number of alcohol-related crashes in Texas. #DriveLikeATexan #PreventionPlaybook #ParentingTeens #TeenSafety
Beginning June 10th (EOC) and June 16th (3rd-8th) your child's STAAR results will be available online for families. To access scores, login to the Alto ISD Parent Portal and click the green "Texas Assessment" button.
While you're there, please register your student(s) for next year!
https://portals07.ascendertx.com/ParentPortal/login?distid=037901
While you're there, please register your student(s) for next year!
https://portals07.ascendertx.com/ParentPortal/login?distid=037901
💛 Make a Difference at Alto Elementary! 💛
Alto ISD is looking for a caring, student-centered individual to serve as our next Elementary Campus Counselor.
At Alto Elementary, our counselor plays an important role in helping students grow academically, socially, and emotionally. If you have a heart for children and a passion for helping students succeed, we would love to welcome you to the Yellowjacket family.
Interested in learning more? Contact Mrs. Mabry at cmabry@alto.esc7.net with any questions about the position.
Apply here: https://www.applitrack.com/alto/onlineapp/JobPostings/view.asp?FromAdmin=true&AppliTrackJobId=242
Alto ISD is looking for a caring, student-centered individual to serve as our next Elementary Campus Counselor.
At Alto Elementary, our counselor plays an important role in helping students grow academically, socially, and emotionally. If you have a heart for children and a passion for helping students succeed, we would love to welcome you to the Yellowjacket family.
Interested in learning more? Contact Mrs. Mabry at cmabry@alto.esc7.net with any questions about the position.
Apply here: https://www.applitrack.com/alto/onlineapp/JobPostings/view.asp?FromAdmin=true&AppliTrackJobId=242
Alto ISD Substitute Teachers!
Substitute Teacher Orientation is mandatory for all current and prospective Alto ISD substitute teachers. This training provides important updates regarding district procedures, safety protocols, expectations, and other information necessary to serve our students effectively.
📅 August 11, 2026
🕐 1:00 PM
📍 Alto ISD Administration Building
244 CR 2429, Alto, TX
Attendance at orientation is required in order to substitute teach for Alto ISD during the 2026–2027 school year.
We look forward to having you join us as we prepare for a successful school year!
Substitute Teacher Orientation is mandatory for all current and prospective Alto ISD substitute teachers. This training provides important updates regarding district procedures, safety protocols, expectations, and other information necessary to serve our students effectively.
📅 August 11, 2026
🕐 1:00 PM
📍 Alto ISD Administration Building
244 CR 2429, Alto, TX
Attendance at orientation is required in order to substitute teach for Alto ISD during the 2026–2027 school year.
We look forward to having you join us as we prepare for a successful school year!
🥎 Congratulations to Lacey Stephenson on being selected to play in the Integra All-Star Softball Game!
The game will be held on Thursday, June 11, at 6:00 PM at Lufkin High School. Come support Lacey as she takes the field alongside some of the best softball players in East Texas!
The game will be held on Thursday, June 11, at 6:00 PM at Lufkin High School. Come support Lacey as she takes the field alongside some of the best softball players in East Texas!
Thank you, Mrs. Dorsey, for the ten years you dedicated to the scholars of Alto High School. Your leadership, bright smile, and unwavering commitment to student success have left a lasting mark on our campus and community.
This isn't goodbye—it's just "see you around." 💛🖤🐝
https://www.thecherokeean.com/articles/54938/view/we-never-lose-we-learn
This isn't goodbye—it's just "see you around." 💛🖤🐝
https://www.thecherokeean.com/articles/54938/view/we-never-lose-we-learn
At a special called meeting on June 3, The Alto Independent School District Board of Trustees named Dr. Zach Crawford as the lone finalist for Superintendent of Schools. Following the 21-day waiting period required by Texas law, the Board expects to officially hire Dr. Crawford as the next Superintendent of Alto ISD. During this transition period, Mr. Andy Trekell will serve as Interim Superintendent. Mr. Trekell is a retired superintendent who previously led both Etoile ISD and Hemphill ISD.
Dr. Crawford brings a wealth of educational experience and leadership to Alto ISD. Over the course of his career, he has served as a teacher, elementary principal, secondary principal, and is currently completing his sixth year as Superintendent of Zavalla ISD.
A lifelong East Texan, Dr. Crawford has dedicated his career to serving small, rural school districts and understands the important role schools play in their communities. Throughout his career, he has focused on building safe and supportive learning environments, expanding opportunities for students, and maintaining strong financial stewardship.
“East Texas schools are more than institutions—they are the heartbeat of their communities. I understand the pride, expectations, and trust placed in a school district, and I approach this work with both humility and determination,” said Dr. Crawford.
In addition to his focus on academics and student achievement, Dr. Crawford recognizes the importance of extracurricular programs, athletics, fine arts, and community engagement in creating a well-rounded student experience.
The Alto ISD Board of Trustees expressed confidence in Dr. Crawford’s ability to lead the district into the future while honoring the traditions and values that make Alto ISD special.
“Dr. Crawford’s experience, leadership style, and dedication to rural education make him an excellent fit for Alto ISD,” Board President Aaron Low said in a statement. “We are excited about the future of Alto ISD under his leadership and look forward to welcoming him to the Yellowjacket family.”
Dr. Crawford and his wife Pamela have four daughters who will join him at Alto ISD. Please join Alto ISD in congratulating Dr. Zach Crawford on being named lone finalist for Superintendent of Schools.
Dr. Crawford brings a wealth of educational experience and leadership to Alto ISD. Over the course of his career, he has served as a teacher, elementary principal, secondary principal, and is currently completing his sixth year as Superintendent of Zavalla ISD.
A lifelong East Texan, Dr. Crawford has dedicated his career to serving small, rural school districts and understands the important role schools play in their communities. Throughout his career, he has focused on building safe and supportive learning environments, expanding opportunities for students, and maintaining strong financial stewardship.
“East Texas schools are more than institutions—they are the heartbeat of their communities. I understand the pride, expectations, and trust placed in a school district, and I approach this work with both humility and determination,” said Dr. Crawford.
In addition to his focus on academics and student achievement, Dr. Crawford recognizes the importance of extracurricular programs, athletics, fine arts, and community engagement in creating a well-rounded student experience.
The Alto ISD Board of Trustees expressed confidence in Dr. Crawford’s ability to lead the district into the future while honoring the traditions and values that make Alto ISD special.
“Dr. Crawford’s experience, leadership style, and dedication to rural education make him an excellent fit for Alto ISD,” Board President Aaron Low said in a statement. “We are excited about the future of Alto ISD under his leadership and look forward to welcoming him to the Yellowjacket family.”
Dr. Crawford and his wife Pamela have four daughters who will join him at Alto ISD. Please join Alto ISD in congratulating Dr. Zach Crawford on being named lone finalist for Superintendent of Schools.
Alto ISD will provide free breakfast and lunch for children and teens ages 18 and under. See the flyers for details!
🐝SUMMER ATHLETICS INFORMATION 🐝
💪Workouts:
Girls : Tuesdays & Thursdays at 10:00 AM
Boys : Mondays & Wednesdays at 10:00 AM
🏐 Official Volleyball Practice
• Saturday, August 1 – 9:00 AM
• August 3–7 – 4:00 PM
🏈 Official Football Practice
• August 3–7 – 4:00 PM
• Saturday, August 8 – Picture Day & Practice at 9:00 AM
Let's make this summer count and get ready for a great season!
💪Workouts:
Girls : Tuesdays & Thursdays at 10:00 AM
Boys : Mondays & Wednesdays at 10:00 AM
🏐 Official Volleyball Practice
• Saturday, August 1 – 9:00 AM
• August 3–7 – 4:00 PM
🏈 Official Football Practice
• August 3–7 – 4:00 PM
• Saturday, August 8 – Picture Day & Practice at 9:00 AM
Let's make this summer count and get ready for a great season!
Alto ISD is hiring for the 2026-2027 school year! Current openings include:
🐝 Elementary Counselor
🐝Secretary to the Special Education Director / Co-op Receptionist
🐝 3rd Grade Math Teacher
🐝 Elementary SPED Paraprofessional
🐝Daycare Paraprofessional
Why choose Alto ISD?
✅ Small class sizes
✅ Strong instructional support
✅ Four-day instructional week (off on Fridays)
✅ On-site daycare
If you're looking for a supportive school community where relationships matter and staff members are valued, we'd love to hear from you! https://www.alto.esc7.net/page/employment-opportunities
🐝 Elementary Counselor
🐝Secretary to the Special Education Director / Co-op Receptionist
🐝 3rd Grade Math Teacher
🐝 Elementary SPED Paraprofessional
🐝Daycare Paraprofessional
Why choose Alto ISD?
✅ Small class sizes
✅ Strong instructional support
✅ Four-day instructional week (off on Fridays)
✅ On-site daycare
If you're looking for a supportive school community where relationships matter and staff members are valued, we'd love to hear from you! https://www.alto.esc7.net/page/employment-opportunities
Alto ISD is excited to welcome Chloe Glass as our new Assistant Softball Coach! 🐝🥎
Coach Glass is a graduate of Garrison High School and earned both a Bachelor of Business Administration in Management and a Bachelor of Business Administration in Marketing. She is currently pursuing her Master of Arts in Teaching. Coach Glass and her husband, Timothy, are expecting their first child.
A talented student athlete, Coach Glass began her collegiate softball career at East Texas A&M University before transferring to Stephen F. Austin State University, where she completed the remainder of her playing career. Through her experiences on and off the field, she has developed a passion for helping athletes succeed not only in their sport, but also in the classroom and in life. Coach Glass is committed to fostering a positive, competitive, and supportive environment where student athletes can grow in character, confidence, and skill.
Please join us in welcoming Coach Glass to Alto! 🖤💛
Alto Independent School District proudly announces nine educators have received new designations through the Texas Education Agency’s Teacher Incentive Allotment (TIA), a prestigious program recognizing excellence in teaching and student achievement.
The Teacher Incentive Allotment (TIA) is designed to recruit, reward, and retain highly effective teachers, particularly in rural and high-need districts. Teachers earn designations at three levels—Recognized, Exemplary, and Master—based on classroom performance, student growth, and rigorous evaluations. These designations are valid for five years and are reflected on the teacher’s Texas educator certificate.
Alto ISD is a fully approved participant in the TIA program and uses a local designation system that measures teacher effectiveness through classroom observations and student academic growth. These designations also provide additional compensation funded entirely by the State of Texas. Under the district’s approved plan, 90% of TIA funds go directly to the designated teacher, while 10% supports program implementation.
Congratulations to our newly designated teachers:
⭐ Recognized Teachers:
Megan Barnett and Stephanie Hammons
⭐ Exemplary Teachers:
Kathy Blackmon, Courtney Landrum, Cassidy McClendon, Tiffany Weatherford, and Rachael Westbrook
⭐ Master Teachers:
Braden Shaffer and Clayton Norman
As we celebrate these teachers, we also recognize that every classroom in Alto ISD is filled with educators who pour their hearts into children, often in ways that can never truly be measured by a designation, score, or title. These teachers represent the excellence, commitment, and care that exist across our entire district!
The Teacher Incentive Allotment (TIA) is designed to recruit, reward, and retain highly effective teachers, particularly in rural and high-need districts. Teachers earn designations at three levels—Recognized, Exemplary, and Master—based on classroom performance, student growth, and rigorous evaluations. These designations are valid for five years and are reflected on the teacher’s Texas educator certificate.
Alto ISD is a fully approved participant in the TIA program and uses a local designation system that measures teacher effectiveness through classroom observations and student academic growth. These designations also provide additional compensation funded entirely by the State of Texas. Under the district’s approved plan, 90% of TIA funds go directly to the designated teacher, while 10% supports program implementation.
Congratulations to our newly designated teachers:
⭐ Recognized Teachers:
Megan Barnett and Stephanie Hammons
⭐ Exemplary Teachers:
Kathy Blackmon, Courtney Landrum, Cassidy McClendon, Tiffany Weatherford, and Rachael Westbrook
⭐ Master Teachers:
Braden Shaffer and Clayton Norman
As we celebrate these teachers, we also recognize that every classroom in Alto ISD is filled with educators who pour their hearts into children, often in ways that can never truly be measured by a designation, score, or title. These teachers represent the excellence, commitment, and care that exist across our entire district!
