information technology, and construction technology. More than 423 students have earned or are on track to earn industry-based certifications, giving them valuable skills and credentials before they even leave high school.
Athens High School’ s debate program once again proved itself among the best in Texas. Liam Tinsley and Ariel Silas advanced to the UIL State Tournament in CX Debate and finished ranked 11th in the state. Tinsley also qualified for the UIL State Meet in Informative Speaking( competing shortly after press time), while eight AHS students qualified in five events for the National Speech and Debate
Bel Air Elementary kindergarten students enjoy time on the playground during the 2025-2026 school year. Following the community’ s support of the May 2025 bond election, Athens ISD is actively working toward improvements that will impact every campus and every grade level across the district.( Photo: Toni Garrard Clay / AISD)
Association National Tournament being held in Virginia this summer. The tradition of excellence remains strong, with AHS holding six UIL CX State Championships and more than 15 consecutive years of state tournament qualification.
The fine arts programs at Athens ISD had an outstanding year across choir, band and theatre. In choir, 13 students earned Division
1 Superior ratings at the UIL Region 21 Vocal Solo and Ensemble Contest, with three students advancing to state competition and six earning spots in the TMEA Region 21 Honor Choir. The band program celebrated 12 All-Region Band selections, 28 first-division ratings at Solo & Ensemble Contest, a state-qualifying ensemble, Division 1 ratings for both concert bands in concert and sight reading, and one student earning a place in the prestigious ATSSB Symphonic All-State Band. Athens Creative Theatre, Troupe 4490, also earned Gold Honor Troupe recognition through the Texas Thespians Honor Troupe Leadership Academy, reflecting the dedication and leadership of students both on and off the stage.
Athletics provided plenty of unforgettable moments throughout the year. Hornet football tied the best season in program history with an 11-3 record and advanced to the Regional Final. Quarterback David Richardson was named District 8-4A Offensive MVP, and 25 players earned All-District honors. Boys basketball captured the Area Championship, while girls soccer claimed its third consecutive Area Championship and boys soccer completed an undefeated district season on the way to a district title and Bi-District Championship.
Softball earned a Bi-District Championship, baseball returned to the playoffs after recording its most wins since 2018, track had six regional qualifiers, while cross country and powerlifting athletes represented Athens all the way to state.
Of course, one of the most significant moments of 2025 came just at the end of the
8 | Greater Athens Magazine | May 2026