Made With Pride December 2024

Each month, Duncanville ISD honors a student, staff member, and teacher who go above and beyond. They are chosen from nominations submitted by coworkers, classmates, or community members. These individuals reflect the excellence and pride of our district, and they are Made with Pride in Duncanville.

MEET KENDON GARDNER: A FIRST-GRADE LEADER WHO INSPIRES EXCELLENCE

Photo of Kendon Gardner, MWP December

Kendon Gardner, a first grader at Merrifield Elementary, is a true leader who inspires both his classmates and teachers with his exceptional approach to learning and kindness. He drives growth by encouraging his peers and staying focused on his learning, setting a remarkable example for others. 

Kendon’s genuine kindness and integrity shine through in the way he treats everyone with respect, building trust and creating a positive environment. Always thinking ahead, he helps solve problems, stay focused, and adapt to new challenges with resilience. Kendon is described as a classroom leader, a weighted and mature role to take on at such an early stage in his school career. 

Kendon ensures that every classmate feels included and valued, embracing new concepts with enthusiasm. His commitment to high expectations, both academically and personally, elevates excellence in the classroom. Kendon is a shining example of a "Made With Pride" leader, leaving a lasting, positive impact on all around him.

 

  

Meet Mrs. Tara Flatt-Ferguson: A True Leader in Duncanville
Photo of Ms. Flatt-Ferguson, MWP December

Tara Flatt-Ferguson, a Special Education teacher at Smith Elementary, is the embodiment of "Made With Pride in Duncanville." Known for her unwavering commitment to her students and colleagues, she consistently goes above and beyond, mentoring new teachers, providing ongoing training, and fostering a culture of growth within her school. 

With trust and integrity at the core of her relationships, Mrs. Flatt-Ferguson creates a safe, inclusive environment where students feel valued and encouraged to thrive. Her resilience and adaptability allow her to lead with confidence, currently serving as both an inclusion/resource teacher and a self-contained teacher, which is why her colleague Dora Tessa nominated her. 

By setting high expectations and celebrating every achievement, she inspires her students to reach their full potential. Mrs. Flatt-Ferguson’s dedication to excellence and positive attitude make her a true leader in the Duncanville community, and she is undoubtedly Made With Pride in Duncanville.

 
 
Meet our Warehouse Drivers Luis Rocha, Rudy Gonsalez, Korey Willis and Joe Hannah :  Driving Excellence 
Photo of the warehose workers, MWP December

The exceptional service of Duncanville ISD Warehouse Drivers Luis Rocha, Rudy Gonsalez, Korey Willis, and Joseph Hannah, has been noticed, but since this summer, it has really been on the radar of Chief Operations Officer Mari Zamora. 

Since June, Zamora has been impressed by the groups’ professionalism, reliability, and positive attitudes that have been consistently praised by staff across the district. Described as "outstanding," "kindhearted," and "responsive," these drivers have elevated the Warehouse department with their strong work ethic and commitment. Rudy and Korey have gone above and beyond, arriving early to support Nutrition Services during staffing shortages. Joe has surpassed expected duties when delivering intra-district mail. 

Their dedication ensures smooth operations and a positive experience for staff and students alike, and this is the reason their department Chief, Ms. Zamora, nominated the gentlemen. The district deeply appreciates their contributions to the district and is proud to recognize them for their hard work and exceptional service is Made With Pride in Duncanville.