Panthers and Employees of the Month

The Aransas Pass ISD Board of Trustees recognized the Panthers and Employees of the Month at their April 14th Regular Board Meeting.

April 2025 Panthers of the Month

Zola Cozad is a 1st grader at Faulk Elementary. Zola is a shining example of responsibility and kindness. She consistently arrives on time, works well with others, and always completes her assignments. Her positive attitude and strong work ethic make her a role model for her peers. Way to go, Zola!


Julian Tijerina is a 5th grader at Charlie Marshall. Julian is a true leader in the making, consistently following directions, offering help to others, and demonstrating loyalty and accountability. He exhibits Panther PRIDE every day through his positive attitude, responsibility, and commitment to making our school community stronger.


Seth Swint is a 7th grader at A.C.Blunt. Seth for exemplifying what it truly means to have Panther Pride! He consistently goes above and beyond, taking initiative to keep our campus clean. Whether itʼs picking up litter without being asked or setting an example of integrity and honesty in everyday actions, Seth leads by example and makes our school a better place for all. Thank you, Seth, for your pride, your positivity, and your commitment to our Panther community. You inspire us all to do better and be better!


Raina Scott is a senior at Aransas Pass High School. Raina is the type of student that you wish you could clone and have 100 of. She has an infectious smile, a wonderful spirit, and a hard work ethic. Her no nonsense attitude is evident on the basketball court where she led the Lady Panther basketball team this year as the only senior. She could often be found with the rest of the team around her, giving them the instruction that they needed to hear from their student leader. She is so much fun to be around and has an amazing future ahead of her and this is why Raina Scott is the Aransas Pass High Schoolʼs April Panther of the Month.


April 2025 Employees of the Month

Clarissa Quintanilla is a Counselor at Faulk Elementary.Mrs. Quintanilla is an amazing counselor at Faulk! She has been a pivotal part of our leadership team, always stepping up to support not only our students through meaningful guidance lessons but also our staff and leadership. Her dedication, heart, and dependability make a lasting impact on our entire campus. We are so lucky to have her!


Haley Lucas is a highly dedicated team member, managing key events like fundraising, Penny Wars, 5th grade graduation, and Fun Day. She also actively participates in campus and district leadership meetings, consistently going above and beyond to support our school community. We appreciate everything Ms. Lucas does at CMES and want to recognize all of her hard work!


James McLendon teaches 7th & 8th grade Video Design & Career Explorations at AC Blunt. Mr. McLendon consistently goes above and beyond in his role. Mr. McLendon demonstrates outstanding initiative by actively seeking opportunities to improve processes, while his thoughtfulness and attention to detail ensure the highest quality in everything he does.He is always ready and willing to lend a hand to administrators and colleagues, making a positive impact on the team. Thank you for your dedication, support, and unwavering commitment to excellence Mr. McLendon!


Mandy Festervand teaches upper-level math to Juniors and Seniors and has been a dedicated Panther for 8 years. Her smile and love for her students is sometimes the only thing that gets them over the difficult information she teaches. Her favorite thing to do in a PLC is talk over Mr. Rombs' head (which isnʼt hard to do when it comes to math) and throw out math terms that no one has ever heard of before. When asked about Mrs. Festervand, her students say she is the best part of their day. Mrs. Festervand can often be found working the book or gate at basketball and baseball games, and drives long hours to watch her students perform in any athletic arena. She loves her school, she loves her students and this is why Mrs. Festervand is APHS Employee of the Month.


Cynthia Mann is the Co-Director of Child Nutrition. Mrs. Mann brings positive energy and uplifting spirit to the central office and the school district. She effectively leads her team with the best interest of our students, staff, and district in mind. She is constantly finding programs to ensure our students have the best meals and making them as affordable as possible. At the same time, she effectively manages her budget to utilize her funds to enhance our cafeteria kitchens and spaces for students and staff. Thanks for supporting the Panther Nation.


Bill Morcher is a bus driver with APISD. Bill is a hard worker, he shows up on time ready to work every day. Always has a good attitude going forward. I never have to worry about anything that needs to be done with his SPED route. He is very self sufficient. He sets his own route and always keeps his parents informed.