Paula Byrd
Paraprofessional 
EMAIL

Julie Beard
4th Grade Math/Science Teacher
EMAIL

I am a proud graduate of Stephen F. Austin State University where I received my Bachelors Degree in early childhood education.  I teach because I want to impact our future by being a positive influence on our future generations. I believe in advocating for all children's needs whether it is a more challenging environment or extra support to grasp a concept.  I have been married for 14 years and have 3 children. I am so excited to be on the Latexo team!

Nellie Baker
Paraprofessional 
EMAIL

I am a graduate of Crockett High School and  obtained my Bachelor of Social Work degree from Stephen F. Austin State University. After many years of working in the medical field of social work, I found a love of education through my children, Brooks and Aubrey. In 2007, I started working in the school setting as support staff and have enjoyed helping students find greatness in themselves. When not at school, I can be found at our farm with my husband, coaching gymnastics with my daughter or cheering on the Baylor Bears with my son.

Vicki Bennett
PE Teacher/Coach
EMAIL

We are pleased to announce that Vicki Bennett joined the LES team on 08/10/19 as the new Physical Education teacher and JH/HS Coach. A long-term resident of Houston County, Vicki is a proud graduate of SHSU where she earned a Bachelor of Arts in Teaching. She played basketball for Jody Conradt while attending SHSU. She was a teacher/coach for Crockett ISD JH and HS coaching volleyball, basketball, track, and tennis. She also was the HS ELA, Reading, and Physical Science teacher at Latexo ISD. After helping to care for her own elderly mother-in-law after a long-term illness. Vicki returned to McLennan Community College earning a degree as a Licensed Nursing Home Facility Administrator and a Licensed Baccalaureate Social Worker. She continued on to Angelina College where she earned an Associate’s degree of Applied Science in Nursing and became a Registered Nurse. Vicki has worked in the home health care field for over 20 years where she worked as a Regional Director, Alternate Administrator, Executive Director, and Director of Patient Care Services.

Vicki is excited to make full circle back to teaching and coaching which has always been her first love in an occupation and service.

Vicki is married to John Bennett and they have two daughters. Daughter, Melissa and husband Jamie Allee, and daughter, Jessica Bennett; both of whom were also in the healthcare industry. She has 3 grandchildren whom she adores; twin grandsons, James and John Allee, and granddaughter, Julia Allee.

Dylis Bobbitt
Instructional Technologist
EMAIL

My name is Dylis Anne Sissom-Bobbitt, and I am an Instructional Technologist for the distrtict. I am a proud graduate of Sam Houston State University where I completed my BS in Kinesiology in 2002 and earned my Master of Business Administration at LeTourneau University in 2008.  I have taught Kindergarten, PK 3 yrs. old, PK 4 yrs. old, Early Childhood Principal and Curriculum Facilitator.  I met my husband in 2003 and we married in August of 2006. We have three sons.  We love to hanging out with family and friends, camping in our RV and enjoy playing golf.

Traci Cole
Nurse
EMAIL

I completed Vocational nursing through Angelina College in 2016. I started my nursing career in 2017 working at one of the local facilities in Crockett. I love being a nurse and helping others! My husband and I have two amazing children that attend Latexo. 

Kollin Corry
Pre-K Teacher and Assit. Softball Coach
EMAIL

I am so excited to be a Pre-K teacher and the assistant softball coach at Latexo! I am a proud graduate of McMurry University, a Christian University in Abilene Texas.There I played softball and studied to be a child life specialist and earned my bachelors degree in psychology with a minor in business administration. I began my teaching career in 2021 teaching 4th grade followed by 3rd grade the next  year. In my spare time my husband and I love playing golf, slow pitch softball, and spending time with our families!

Kathryn Culpepper
Special Education Teacher
EMAIL

I was raised in Crockett and graduated from Crockett High School in 2004. After high school, I attended Stephen F. Austin State University where I received my degree in Elementary Education. I recently received my Masters degree in Reading Language Arts. I am certified in Special Education, Dyslexia, Reading Specialist, and ESL. My husband, Bryan, and I have been married for 16 years. He is an electrical contractor in his own business, Culpepper Electric. We have one daughter, Charlee, who is currently in the 4th grade at Latexo. We live on a cattle ranch and have 3 dogs. My hobbies include traveling, reading, trying out new recipes, and spending time with family. My favorite place to travel is to Cancun, Mexico. This is my 13th year of teaching, and I have taught 1st, 3rd, 4th, and 5th grade. I am so happy to have joined Latexo ISD in my new role as the Special Education Inclusion Teacher at the elementary. 

Miranda Dugat
4th Grade Reading, Language Arts, Social Studies Teacher 
EMAIL

I am a graduate of Stephen F. Austin State University. I have a bachelors and a masters degree in Human Development and Family Studies. I enjoy teaching and cannot imagine a better place to be! I'm proud to be a Latexo Tiger.

Jessica Duvall
Library
EMAIL

I grew up a Latexo Tiger and am proud to still be one! I love running the library at the same school I went to. I graduated from Latexo in 2005 and went to Sam Houston where I studied marketing and Agribusiness.  The education field is new to me, as I've spent the last 17 years in grocery retail management, but I'm loving every bit of it. I love reading to the children and seeing them wrapped up in a story! Outside of work I love to travel with my husband and son, reading, and crafting. I also enjoy quiet weekends at home with our two dogs. 

Sue Edwards
Kindergarten Teacher 
EMAIL

I am a proud graduate of the University of Texas at Tyler with a  Bachelor's degree in Interdisciplinary Studies. I am certified in Early Childhood - 4th grade,  Special Education  EC-12th, and ESL. I've taught Pre-K, Head Start, and Kindergarten. As a teacher, I believe in helping students build self-esteem and believe in themselves and their ability to learn. I'm so excited to be part of the Latexo Tiger Team!

Kara Fiolek
1st Grade
EMAIL

I was raised in Crockett and graduated from Crockett High School in 2018. After high school, I attended Texas A & M where I received a  BS in Psychology in 2021. In December of 2023 I received a Master in Counseling from SHSU. I'm so excited to be part of the Latexo Tiger Team! 

Tera Furrh
Paraprofessional 
EMAIL

I am a proud mom of 4 wonderful children all of whom attend Latexo ISD. I have a love for working with children and helping them find a passion for learning.  In my free time I enjoy relaxing at the pool with family and friends, as well as coaching softball and volleyball.  I am honored to be apart of the amazing team at Latexo Elementary! 

Heather Germeroth
Paraprofessional 
EMAIL

I am a graduate of Latexo High School and have been a pharmacy technician for 15 years. I loved being in the pharmacy field, but wanted more time with my children and was ready for something different. My husband and I have been married for 14 years and have three children. When I have time I love crafting, finding new recipes, swimming, going to the movies, and spending time with my family.

Sarah Guel
Paraprofessional 
EMAIL

I was born and raised in Crockett, and graduated from Latexo High School in 2009. I am married and we have 2 beautiful children who also attend Latexo ISD.  I love working for Latexo ISD and with the students. In my free time, I enjoy spending time with family, traveling, and shopping! 

Shelby Hill
3rd Grade Math and Science Teacher
EMAIL

I was raised in Grapeland and graduated from Latexo HS in 2016.  After high school, I attended SFA where I received my BS Rehabilitation for VI. I worked a year as a paraprofessional where I found my love for teaching, which led me to Latexo Elementary for my first teaching position. I love being a part of the Latexo Tiger team.

April Langford
1st Grade
EMAIL

I am originally from Milano, Texas, born and raised.  I received my AS in Social Sciences from Blinn College and earned my BS in Academic Studies with a minor in early childhood education from Sam Houston State University.  I have taught kindergarten, first, and second grades, and this will be my 20th year of teaching.  My husband is also a teacher (he teaches agricultural science at the high school).  We have a dog named Molly and a herd of cows that keep us busy.  I became a teacher because I firmly believe it's the best way for me to help make the world a better place.  I love being part of the Latexo Tiger family!!

Tiffany Lee
Paraprofessional 
EMAIL

My name is Tiffany Lee and I am a paraprofessional at Latexo Elementary.  I am married and we have two great children who attend Latexo HS. Enjoy working with the students and staff at Latexo Elementary.  When I am not working I love spending time with my family and following my children extracurricular activities

Susan Lawrence
2nd Grade Teacher
EMAIL

I enjoy working with children and helping them reach for their dreams through education.  I believe that an education should empower a child and help them make a positive contribution to our world.  
I grew up in Crockett and graduated from Crockett High School.  I pursued my degree in education at Stephen F. Austin State University.  I have taught first, second, and fourth grades.  I have to say that my favorite is second grade! This is my twenty-seventh year teaching elementary school. My husband and I have a beautiful family of three children, a wonderful son-in-law and daughter-in-law, and four precious grandchildren.  I enjoy spending time outdoors. During the summer I can be found working in the yard and trying out new recipes.  I am looking forward to another wonderful school year at Latexo Elementary!

Jessica Lowery
3rd Grade Teacher
EMAIL

I attended college at Stephen F. Austin State University, I graduated with a degree in Interdisciplinary Studies. I teach because I like being able to help a child, or be the person who is there for a student when he/she needs someone, and makes a difference. I love the different personalities that are in my classroom, and the coworkers I work with. I am blessed to be able to work in the best school district in the county.

Brittany Morris
Special Education Teacher
EMAIL

I was born and raised in Hutto Tx. when it was a small, rural farming community.  As a high school student I became involved in a nearby horseback riding facility for children with disabilities. This is where my passion for working with children, especially those with special needs blossomed. I attended and graduated from Tarleton State University in 2008 with a Bachelor’s Degree in Interdisciplinary Studies. I am certified in Early Childhood Education-4th grade and all level Special Education. I have taught Pre-K, 1st grade and Elementary Life Skills. I met my husband in college, we were married in 2008 and have three amazing boys! We moved to Crockett in 2008 and have been there ever since. My family and I are excited for the opportunity to be a part of the  Latexo ISD family!

Leslie Sample
Art/Cheer Coach
EMAIL

I am a 1989 Graduate of Midlothian High School, where I started my road to becoming a Hairdresser. I finished my state required hours in 1992 at Charles and Sues School of Design in College Station Texas. I enjoyed working in the hair industry for over 30 years. In January 2021 after a long Pandemic hit our country, I decided to spread my wings and sign up in Latexo to become a substitute teacher. I soon found myself as a full time Art Substitute  for the remainder of the year that turned into full time employment with Latexo ISD. I am so blessed to work with such a wonderful staff that has truly become a family. This year I have also stepped into the role and I am enjoying being Mrs. Broxsons Jr. High and Varsity Cheer Coach helper. 

Jennifer Shafer
Paraprofessional 
EMAIL

I am an East Texas native,and have lived in Houston County for 10 years. I love working with kids, gardening, and coffee. 

Sandy Simpson
School Counselor
EMAIL

Hello! I am excited to be the School Counselor at Latexo ISD! I come from a family of educators who instilled in me the great satisfaction of helping children discover the joy of learning. I graduated from Sam Houston State University with a Bachelors of Science in Education and earned a Master's degree from Lamar University in Educational Technology and Leadership. My husband Tyler and I live here in Latexo with our sons, Nathan and Barret. I look forward to working with our Latexo community and outstanding faculty to help our students have a successful school year. If you have any questions or I can be of any support, please do not hesitate to call or email. 

Katrina Smith
5th Grade Reading, Language Arts, Social Studies Teacher
EMAIL

I attended TVCC and SFA. I enjoy teaching students and creating a love and desire for learning in them.

Taylor Smith
Pre-Kindergarten
EMAIL

I am proud to be a pre-k teacher at Latexo Elementary! I began my teaching career in 2000 after graduating from Sul Ross State University in Alpine, Texas. I love teaching Pre-K because every day we explore fun and unexpected learning experiences. I enjoy watching the students grow and develop a love for learning. My husband, Tige and I moved to the area in 2017. Our grown son, Cole lives in Waco. When I’m not at school, I enjoy training horses and competing in barrel racing. I am looking forward to a wonderful school year!

Jacquelyn Tabor
6th Grade Reading, Language Arts, Social Studies Teacher
EMAIL

I am originally from Kerrville, TX, born & raised. I pursued my degree in education at Texas State! I moved to Crockett 9 years ago with my husband, TJ.  We have 4 beautiful children & 3 of them attend Latexo! I love absolutely love helping & teaching children. They are our future! I am looking forward to a wonderful year of learning!

Miket Thomas
6th Grade Math/Science Teacher
EMAIL

I graduated from Stephen F. Austin University with a Bachelor's degree in Education. This year will be my 29th year teaching with the last 16 years in Latexo.  I love teaching here at Latexo and am looking for an amazing year.

Timberly Treuter
Kindergarten Teacher 
EMAIL

I graduated from Texas A&M University with a degree in Interdisciplinary Studies.  I’ve been in education for 16 years.  I've taught 2nd grade, PE, and kindergarten.  My husband and I have two beautiful girls and a newborn baby boy. We love being part of the Latexo Tiger family!

Cortney Turrubiartes
5th Grade Math and Science Teacher
EMAIL

I am a proud graduate of LeTourneau University with a degree in Interdisciplinary Studies. I've been in education 6 years and absolutely love it.  My husband and I have four awesome kids, Brentley, Bryson, Brystol, and Braylon. When I am not at school I enjoy being at the baseball field watching my kids play and hanging out at our house together. 

Shannon Wassberg 
District Dyslexia Coordinator/Therapist
EMAIL

I graduated from The University of Houston with a degree in Interdisciplinary Studies.  This is my 25th year in education.  In my early years of teaching, I taught in the primary grades.  For the last 11 years, I have focused on dyslexia therapy.  I trained for two years at Scottish Rite Hospital and became a Certified Academic Language Therapist (CALT).  I will be providing reading support as well as dyslexia therapy for the school district.  I'm honored to be a part of the Latexo Tiger Team.

Trista Waits
Elementary Secretary
EMAIL

This is my fouth year with Latexo Elementary and I absolutely love it here. I started out as a Paraprofessional in life Skills and moved over to the Secretary position in January of 2022.I have been married 15 years and we have 3 beautiful children who all attend Latexo ISD.  I love being a part of the Latexo Tiger team and look forward to a wonderful year !

Beverly Wilbanks 
2nd Grade Teacher
EMAIL

I am a proud graduate of University of Texas at Tyler, having earned my Bachelor of Science degree in Interdisciplinary Studies.  I love working with children. This is my 17th year teaching and my 15th year in  second grade. When I am not in the classroom, I enjoy spending time with my husband, Randy and our family. We have four children and their spouses, Glenn and wife, Jennifer,  Leslee and husband Brannon, Bozy and wife Casey, and Tracey.  We also have three grandchildren, Adalyn  Bentlee, and Lannon. I also have three fur babies, our cat Spanky, and two dogs, Rebel and Bella.