By: Jade Wise
Pasadena ISD Communications
Twenty five years ago, Matthys Elementary first opened its doors to the students and families of South Houston, under the leadership of former principal Gilberto DeLeon.
The campus recently celebrated that milestone with a special ceremony and an open house where many former students, staff and community members all came together to reminisce, see old friends and tour the school.
The event featured special presentations by members of the school’s student council and the debuting of the new campus song, entitled “The Mighty Mustangs.” Additionally, former principals Gilberto DeLeon and Karen Hickman were recognized for their contributions to Matthys’ history.
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| Matthys Principal Becky Vargas welcomes guests to the campus's 25th year celebration. |
During his address, DeLeon thanked former teachers and students, district administration and the board of trustees for their role in shaping the success of students.
“There are many former students here today that are now adults,” said DeLeon. “I’ve heard so many stories about how successful and happy you are and that says a lot about the education you received at Matthys.”
Hickman, now Pasadena ISD’s deputy superintendent for academic achievement, spoke about how the campus left a lasting impact on her.
“I’m proud to be a part of this school’s history,” said Hickman. “I had no idea that I would one day leave Matthys to do other things in the district, but it’s the joy in those classrooms as kids learned and reached their potential that make me thrive in the work I do today.”
Principal Becky Vargas thanked the community for their continued support and spoke of her love for the campus.
“I may be a little biased, but there is no place like Matthys Elementary,” said Vargas. “At Matthys, you feel the love when you walk into the building. You know that the teachers and staff are going to work their hardest, help each other and make sure that each student and family is taken care of.”
For more photos of the event, click here!
All three former and current principals of Matthys Elementary were recognized at the 25th anniversary of the campus recently. (L to R): Gilberto DeLeon, Karen Hickman and Becky Vargas
Former and current staff that worked under former Matthys Principal Gilberto DeLeon gathered for a group photo to commemorate the 25th anniversary of the campus.
Former and current staff that worked under former Matthys Principal and current Associate Superintendent for Academic Achievement Karen Hickman gathered for a group photo to commemorate the 25th anniversary of the campus.
Current and former staff that worked under Matthys Principal Becky Vargas gathered for a group photo to commemorate the 25th anniversary of the campus.