Esperanza Orosco, Hays CISD Board of Trustees District 5

Last week, we had the bittersweet task of saying goodbye to two fellow trustees as they concluded their service on our board. While their time serving alongside us has come to an end, our team is truly a family, and we will always remain friends.

Vanessa Petrea has served alongside me longer than anyone else on the board, joining just one year after I did. She stepped into leadership during a pivotal time for our district and played an important role in helping shape the amazing district we are today. I have seen her kids grow up over the years, and even though life may take us in different directions, we will always be connected through our service to this district. Her dedication and service have made a lasting impact.

Trustee Johnny Flores is leaving to pursue another political office. While we did not always see eye to eye in the beginning, he consistently showed up, remained coachable, and put aside misconceptions to truly grow into both his role and our team. I appreciate the commitment he demonstrated during his time serving our district.

We also welcomed and swore in two new board members, Katy Armstrong and Alex Zavala. Both have already demonstrated a strong commitment to our schools through their service on district committees and campus committees, and we look forward to watching them learn, grow, and serve in these new roles.

Additionally, we celebrated the swearing in of our incumbent trustee, Raul Vela, Jr., who ran unopposed. As a veteran, we are grateful for his service, his thoughtful perspective, and the calm leadership he brings to our team. His ability to bring levity and composure during tense situations is truly valued.

Most importantly, we want to thank everyone who took the time to vote and stay engaged in our schools and community. We know that together, we are stronger.

Byron Severance, Hays CISD School Board, District 4 , TrusteeCourtney Runkle, Hays CISD School Board, District 3, and I were honored to represent the board at the wonderful breakfast hosted by the Buda Area Chamber of Commerce and the Buda Economic Development Corporation celebrating the businesses that help make our community stronger. Congratulations to all of the nominees and winners in each category for the incredible work you do to support and strengthen our community.

This weekend was truly a whirlwind of incredible events across our district.

It started Friday at the Volunteer Luncheon, where I had the honor of attending alongside board members Byron Severance, Hays CISD School Board, District 4, Vanessa V. Petrea, Hays CISD School Board, At Large Position, Geoff Seibel - Hays CISD Trustee At-Large, and Courtney Runkle, Hays CISD School Board, District 3. We recognized the individuals who make our district stronger and truly embody service above self. I also had the privilege of recognizing some amazing volunteers, Debbie Condel, Jenni Dunaway from DLC Financial Service, be sure to read more about them on the HaysHope2Go page, and Mary Gartner from the Hays CISD Clothes Closet.

Friday evening, I was back in my usual concession stand spot at Barton Middle School PTA sponsored Spring Fling Dance. Our PTAs across the district do so much to support our campuses, creating fun and meaningful experiences for our students.

Saturday came early as board members Byron, Geoff, and I attended the Lehman High School 5K in support of the TAFE program. While I did not quite have the energy to jog this one 🤣, I did break my walking record and finished in under an hour. Thank you to For the Love of Go and all the staff and students who made it such a great event.

Afterward, I spent time at the Clothes Closet preparing for the week alongside an amazing group of volunteers. Later, Raspberry joined me for the MMS production of Madagascar, such a fun and talented performance.

Saturday night, I had the opportunity to represent our team of eight at the Johnson High School Rosette Show. As always, it was fantastic. Brooke Lowden and the Rosettes never disappoint. To see the amazing dances performed are both athletic and a beautiful work of art! I am in awe.

I am continually amazed by the opportunities our district provides for students, made possible through the support of our families and community. This is one of the busiest times of the year, and while we cannot be at every event, our team works hard to ensure at least one of us is present to support and celebrate.

Please know how honored we are to be invited into these spaces. Even when schedules, work, and our own families do not always allow us to attend everything, we see you. We are inspired by the talent, the partnerships, and the incredible things happening in Hays CISD.

Together we are stronger!

Today we had the honor of recognizing some true heroes, our volunteers. We are so proud and deeply grateful for the work they do and for truly embodying the spirit of service above self.

On Friday, I had the pleasure of representing the Board alongside fellow trustees, Byron Severance, Hays CISD School Board, District 4, Geoff Seibel - Hays CISD Trustee At-Large, Vanessa V. Petrea, Hays CISD School Board, At Large Position and Courtney Runkle, Hays CISD School Board, District 3, at the Hays CISD Education Foundation’s annual Swing Fore Education golf tournament at Plum Creek Golf Course.

Community partners from across Hays CISD came together on the course in support of this meaningful event, which raises funds for the Education Foundation’s many initiatives benefiting our teachers and students throughout the year.

The Hays CISD Education Foundation plays a vital role in supporting innovation, opportunity, and success across our district, and I am grateful for the continued partnership that makes this work possible.

Last month, I had the opportunity to attend the Texas Federal Advocacy Conference in Washington, DC through my work with TASB. I am grateful for the chance to learn, grow, and bring back information to share with my board and boards across the state on how to effectively advocate for public education at the national level.

I was honored to be alongside so many dedicated school board trustees from across Texas, including Hays CISD trustees Vanessa Petrea and Courtney Runkle. While there, we had the opportunity to visit Capitol Hill and meet with lawmakers on both sides of the aisle to share the impact on our schools and advocate for critical resources and support.

Together, we are stronger.

Yesterday, I had the opportunity to represent the board at the showcase of the Lehman Vertical Team auditorium. Our families and community members were treated to incredible performances from our feeder campuses Simon Middle School, Chapa Middle School, and culminating with an outstanding performance by Lehman High School.

The evening also featured beautiful artwork from our elementary students, highlighting the creativity and talent across our district.

A heartfelt thank you to our Fine Arts Director, Patty Moreno, the entire fine arts team, and our amazing student performers for making the day so special.

And thank you to our community for approving this beautiful space that will serve students for classes, performances, and unforgettable moments for years to come.

Together we are stronger. 💙

Great morning representing our Board at our second 5K of the year at Fuentes Elementary.

Thank you to For the Love of Go for organizing another successful event in support of Fuentes. It was wonderful to see so many families and students out enjoying the morning together.

On a personal note, I beat my best time. I went from finishing in 1 hour and 9 minutes (last year) to 44 minutes. I may not love running, but a steady little jog did the trick. I am giving full credit to my two chihuahua mix pups who drag me along on our walks anytime they spot a squirrel, bird, or even a leaf moving.

I am super sad that I will miss Negley’s 5K because of a work commitment, but there is still time to sign up and be part of the fun.

https://www.athleteguild.com/event/kyle-tx/2026-negley-5k3k1k

Beautiful morning filled with great music and excitement at our first 5K of the year supporting HaysHope2Go cofounder Trey Williams and our incredible partner Ancora Ministries. Ancora’s work helps feed students in Hays CISD and neighboring districts each week.

It was especially heartwarming to see a team from Uhland Elementary show up in full support. When our schools and community come together like this, we truly make a difference for kids.

And on a personal note, I had my second best time on the books. Grateful for the miles and the mission.

Together we are stronger. 💛