There is so much to celebrate as we begin 2026!

As a new year begins, it offers a natural moment to pause, reflect, and look ahead with optimism. Across Eagle Mountain-Saginaw ISD, we are entering the spring semester energized by the accomplishments of our students and inspired by the role our schools play in shaping the future of this community.

There is so much to celebrate as we begin 2026. Across our district, students continue to shine in extraordinary ways. This fall, EMS ISD students captured state championships in athletics, earned top honors in prestigious Career and Technical Education competitions, and received statewide recognition for excellence in fine arts.

These achievements are the result of talent, dedication, and countless hours of practice and preparation—but they also reflect the strong systems of support surrounding our students every day.

Just as encouraging are the gains we are seeing in student engagement. During the first semester alone, districtwide attendance increased by approximately one percent.

That may sound small, but it represents thousands of additional instructional hours for students—time spent learning, collaborating, performing, competing, and growing.

Every day in school matters, and this progress tells us that families, students, and staff are working together to build strong habits that support long-term success. As the semester begins, our campuses are once again alive with energy and purpose. In fact, our brand new Wayside Middle School welcomed students for the first time on January 6. Across the district, classrooms are filled with curiosity. Hallways buzz with conversation and connection. From academic pursuits to athletics, fine arts, and career pathways, students are stepping into opportunities that challenge them and help them discover who they are and who they want to become. It is a privilege to witness this growth firsthand.

As we begin this new year, I want to thank everyone who plays a role in the success of Eagle Mountain-Saginaw ISD. There is much to be proud of, and even more to look forward to. I wish our students, families, and community a happy and healthy new year,and I look forward to all that we will accomplish together in the months ahead.

Jerry D. Hollingsworth, Ed.D., Superintendent of Schools, Eagle Mountain-Saginaw ISD