MFISD spotlights exceptional students and staff in May
Caleb Ferrell with Superintendent Dr. Jeff Gasaway. Courtesy photos
Several Marble Falls school district students and staff were recognized for exceptional commitment, outstanding achievements, and one act of heroism during the Board of Trustees meeting in May.
The following people were honored:
Going the Extra Mile Award
Caleb Ferrell (photo above)
Marble Falls High School senior Caleb Ferrell received the Going the Extra Mile Award for potentially saving the life of a teacher who was choking. Ferrell performed the Heimlich maneuver on the teacher, dislodging the obstruction.
“Caleb’s courage, humility, and heart for others are a powerful example of Mustang character,” said Marble Falls Independent School District Superintendent Dr. Jeff Gasaway in a media release announcing the recent recognitions.
Ferrell is shipping off in August to serve in the U.S. military.
Spotlight on Excellence
Kelli Figueroa, Marble Falls Middle School
Kelli Figueroa, a familiar face in the Marble Falls Middle School cafeteria, was recognized for her role as an ACE enrichment teacher and her remarkable ability to connect with students. The former military medic teaches ACE students emergency medical skills such as CPR and Stop the Bleed. She is celebrated for her infectious energy and genuine relationships with students, many of whom seek her out daily just to share their highs and lows.
“She talks to students like people, and they respond with trust and admiration,” said ACE coordinator Laura Dodd.
Spotlight on Engagement
Ronnie Scearce, Falls Career High School
A Marble Falls icon, Ronnie Scearce was honored with the Spotlight on Engagement for his decades of service and deeply rooted commitment to students. Whether it’s leading a gardening lesson, supporting EPIC learners, or helping a former student—now 78 years old—earn a high school diploma, the former longtime MFHS baseball coach’s influence is both broad and deeply personal. Co-workers praise him for being the kind of educator who shows up for every student, every time.
“You’re never going to find a greater man,” one colleague shared. “He’s always been there for the kids, and he still is.”
Student achievements
State-level excellence
Esports: Under the leadership of coach Robert Colwell, MFHS Esports exploded in growth this year from a single team to over 35 active players. The program had a state title, a national title, three runner-up finishes, and 12 playoff appearances in just two years. Graduating senior Jeremy Williams, who captained six teams, was especially praised for his leadership.
The program also helped boost ACE enrollment at the high school to over 200 students, a testament to its positive culture and accessibility.
Track & Field: The board recognized an impressive slate of state track qualifiers during the May meeting.
MFHS senior Tyler Hamblin became a two-time state finalist in the 3200 meters, closing a decorated career that includes four cross-country state appearances.
Senior Kylie Roberts secured her first trip to the state meet in discus, demonstrating resilience and determination with a 114-foot throw in prelims that earned her second place at regionals.
Sophomore Madison Cuplin won a bronze medal in the long jump and placed fifth in the triple jump.
Tennis: The Marble High School tennis program celebrated a record-setting season with three athletes advancing to the state tournament.
Senior Weston York, who transferred from Flour Bluff as a junior, made an immediate impact. This year, he earned first team all-district and academic all-district honors in doubles. Weston and his partner, sophomore Cooper Kelley, won first place at district and finished third at regionals to qualify for state. Kelley, also an academic all-district selection in both fall and spring, has been a standout since middle school and ranks in the top 10 percent of his class.
Junior Cooper Womack continued his consistent excellence with another district championship and a third-place finish at regionals. A three-time district champion and former regional champion, Womack was also named first team all-district in singles and doubles and currently ranks fourth in the junior class.
Retirees
Marble Falls ISD also celebrated the retirement of several dedicated staff members whose combined decades of service have shaped generations of Mustangs.
- Diane Arredondo, Marble Falls Elementary School math specialist—30 years in education, 27 with MFISD
- Brenda Belk, Marble Falls Middle School librarian—35 years of service, all with MFISD
- Suzanne Fulp, MFES prekindergarten teacher—16 years in education, five with MFISD
- Connie Suarez, MFMS Child Nutrition—25 years, all with MFISD
- Rebecca Lazos, Marble Falls High School teacher—33 years in education, 24 with MFISD
- Debbie Rector, Maintenance—31 years, all with MFISD
- Jeff Rowland, director of Maintenance—24 years with MFISD
- Rick Hoover, director of Special Programs and Safety & Security—19 years in education, 12 with MFISD