In Conroe ISD, our student-worker program does more than just fill positions; it uncovers incredible hearts. Jose Lisser, a senior at Caney Creek High School, serves as a janitor at Travis Intermediate. Working alongside him is Maegan Morris, a dedicated 5th-grade math and science teacher who has witnessed Jose’s impact daily.
Jose is a young man who consistently goes above and beyond, but it’s his quiet creativity that has captured the school's spirit. With Mrs Morris’s encouragement, students leave notes or sketches on the whiteboards of things they’d like to see. Without fail, the very next morning, Jose’s own artwork appears in response. As Maegan explains, these small but meaningful gestures bring immense joy to the students and brighten the entire campus's week.
When asked what drives him, Jose’s answer is simple and profound:
"I do it for the kids. It makes me happy to see them happy."
That humility and kindness define exactly who Jose is, a hardworking young man with a servant’s heart.
A Legacy of Relationship-Building
Jose’s story brings me back to a pivotal experience from my early years as a superintendent. We conducted an experiment at a campus much like Travis, asking students: “Is there an adult on campus you would go to if you needed help?”
When we compiled the results from more than 1,000 students, the answer wasn't a teacher or an administrator, it was Aaron, the cafeteria janitor. The kids loved him because he truly loved them. Seeing his potential, we supported Aaron in earning his degree in education. Today, Aaron Allen is one of the best 5th-grade math teachers on an A-rated campus. Eventually earning Teacher of the Year Honors! While he is excellent at math, his true gift remains the genuine, life-changing relationships he fosters with his students.
Gratitude for our Difference-Makers
Educators like Maegan Morris and Aaron Allen will always be remembered, not just for the subjects they teach, but for the connections they build. They understand that learning starts with feeling seen.
I look forward to speaking with Jose about his future and seeing if he might follow in those same footsteps as a future educator.
As we close out Teacher Appreciation Week, I want to express my deepest gratitude for the "special folks" in our district. Whether you are in the classroom, the front office, or the hallways, thank you for building the relationships that make the real difference.
What you do matters, our kids need you and I am proud to serve alongside you and beyond grateful for the impact you have on every single student.
