Navasota High School students receive national recognition for honoring veterans

NAVASOTA, Texas (KBTX) - A group of Navasota High School students have received national recognition for their work on a U.S. veterans project.

Their work has been officially published in partnership with the U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs and the National Cemetery Administration, showcasing their research and tribute work honoring Korean war veterans.

Navasota ISD has also been granted three years of access to the Ancestry Classroom, a genealogical research tool available to students on campus to support learning and personal discovery.

Assistant Superintendent of Instruction, Tracy Stone, said “We are so proud of our students, of Mrs. Watkins for her exceptional leadership, and of the values of respect, service, and scholarship that define Navasota ISD. Most importantly, we honor our country and those who have served and continue to serve our great nation with courage and sacrifice.”

The following students were recognized for their participation in the Silent Heroes of the Cold War: Honoring Korean War Veterans project. Sabrina Burnett, Valentin Castaneda, Luis Cruz, Bailey Ingram, Lane Law, Evan Magallon, Gabrielle McClellan, Caleb Pimentel, Ava Stankiewicz, and Cade Zaragoza. Navasota High School teacher Mrs. Heather Watkins gave guidance to all the students during the time of the project.

The students also honored Sergeant Mark Butler, a beloved figure within Navasota ISD, for his service and impact on the local community.

The students said that Officer Butler always gave them a sense of safety.

”When the high school faced threats, his presence was appreciated at pep rallies and in the halls, giving all passing by him a confident sense of safety. He always had a smile on his face and most times also an energy drink," recalled one student.

Sergeant Butler led a a police interaction training at Navasota High School in 2022, promoting the roles of police officers and citizens in their community.