September 2026 Bearcats of Character Recognized
The Aledo ISD Board of Trustees recognized the first group of students named Bearcats of Character for the 2026-2027 school year on Tuesday, September 22, 2026 for the character trait TEAMWORK.
Teamwork is the ability and willingness to place overall group success as a higher priority than individual achievement. It is a willingness to work toward the team’s goals as opposed to one’s own self-interest. Those who demonstrate strengths in teamwork often work to help all group members find success. These individuals are willing to commit time and resources in order to help achieve the group’s goals.
Congratulations to the following students, Aledo ISD's September 2026 Bearcats of Character!
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Aledo High School: Jackson Walker, 10th Grade
AHS students nominated Jackson Walker as someone who exemplifies incredible teamwork. He consistently puts others first and is kind, helpful, and encouraging, making those around him feel supported and included. Jackson works well with his classmates, helps others learn, and brings people together to strengthen the group. His positive attitude and willingness to help make him a wonderful example of what it means to be a great teammate.
Aledo Learning Center: Khloe Sledge, 11th Grade
Khloe is a true example of teamwork through her empathy, kindness, and willingness to support others. She makes those around her feel welcome and safe while encouraging others, listening to their ideas, and being a positive example. Her willingness to take responsibility, persevere through challenges, and be there for others makes her a wonderful example of what it means to be a Bearcat of Character.
Daniel Ninth Grade: Hayden Stone, 9th Grade
Hayden was selected by her peers as a wonderful example of teamwork. She always includes others and makes everyone feel welcome. She is kind, encouraging, and always willing to help and uplift her teammates. Whether she is on the volleyball court or working with classmates, Hayden brings a positive attitude and helps those around her feel supported and valued.
Aledo Middle School: Hadley Romero, 8th Grade
Hadley is a wonderful example of what teamwork looks like in our Algebra classroom and consistently demonstrates our LEAD values through the way she supports her peers. As a Learner, she works alongside her classmates, listens carefully to their thinking, and shares her own ideas to help others grow. She is especially Empathetic when someone is struggling, remaining calm, patient, and encouraging while taking the time to understand where her classmate needs additional support. Hadley is also Accountable to her team, understanding that learning is not just about her own success but about helping those around her succeed as well. Rather than simply giving an answer, she offers explanations, asks questions, and finds different ways to help her classmates understand. Most importantly, Hadley is Dedicated to encouraging her peers to keep trying when a problem is challenging and patiently works alongside them until they feel more confident. Her willingness to support, encourage, and learn with others makes a positive difference in our classroom and is a wonderful reflection of what it means to be a Bearcat LEADer.
McAnally Middle School: McCoy Minchew, 7th Grade
McCoy Minchew was selected as the MMS Bearcat of Character for Teamwork. Coach Myres nominated McCoy and states that although she has only had the opportunity to teach him for a few weeks, he has already made a strong impression on her. McCoy is dedicated to his own learning, but he also genuinely wants to see those around him succeed. He is consistently engaged during collaboration, works well with a variety of classmates, and is always willing to contribute and help his group move forward. McCoy understands that teamwork is not just about doing your part, but also about supporting others and helping the entire group be successful. I am excited to continue watching him grow this year! Congratulations, McCoy!
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Aledo ISD Early Childhood Academy: Makena Antenucci, Pre-K
Makena is such a wonderful team player in our classroom! She is always willing to do what is right and does her part to help our classroom run smoothly and successfully. Makena leads by example with her kind heart, responsible choices, and willingness to help others. She is someone her friends and teachers can always count on, and she brings such a positive spirit to our classroom each day. We absolutely adore Makena and are so incredibly grateful that she is ours! She makes our classroom a better place just by being herself.
Annetta Elementary School: Annalaya Macias, 3rd Grade
Annalaya demonstrates excellent teamwork by working well with classmates. She is a great teammate when working in small groups, but also contributes respectfully when working as a whole class. She is leader of our class team by following the class expectations and setting an example for others. She loves listening to others’ ideas, and doing her part to help the group succeed. We are lucky to have such a kind and encouraging student in our class. Keep up the great work Annalaya!
Coder Elementary School: Karley Jo Ellis, 4th Grade
Karley is a valuable member of our classroom team. She is always willing to partner with other students to complete projects, and she is always contributing valuable information to class discussions.
McCall Elementary School: Braden Steenbakkers, 5th Grade
Braden consistently demonstrates teamwork by being a reliable and supportive member of our classroom community. He works well with others, helps his peers succeed, and understands that working together toward a shared goal is more important than individual recognition. Braden’s classmates say that he listens well to others and respectfully holds his partners accountable to the task. One classmate noted that when working with him in RLA, Braden remained dedicated to helping his partner understand and succeed at the task.
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McKinney Elementary School: Gage Ladew, 4th Grade
Gage is a wonderful example of what it looks like to embody teamwork each day! Whether in the classroom, at recess, or somewhere in between, he is always ready to work together with others, include those around him, and provide words of encouragement to his classmates. Gage’s consistent kindness, positive attitude, and willingness to support others makes him a wonderful teammate to all of 4th grade!
Stuard Elementary School: Reese Pettigrew, 5th Grade
Reese is always willing to help others. She is always a bright light to people who need help. She works well with her peers and helps everyone work together. She is a team player for sure!
Vandagriff Elementary School: Tate Morogiello, 3rd Grade
Tate is a wonderful team player who works well with others, listens to ideas, and encourages his classmates. He is always willing to help and do his part to make the team successful.
Walsh Elementary School: Sutter Vance, 5th Grade
Sutter was the first person who came to mind when I thought of teamwork! He has been such an awesome addition to our classroom and always makes sure everyone feels included. Sutter can easily switch between being a leader and stepping in to assist others when needed. He works hard to make sure everyone has a voice and that things are fair and just. He truly understands that being a great teammate means helping others succeed, and we are so lucky to have him in our classroom!