Round Rock ISD continues to lead the way in student support, with three campuses earning recognition in the 2025 Lone Star Awards from the Lone Star State School Counselor Association (LSSSCA), and one counselor who was selected for the prestigious Presidential Award.
The Lone Star Award recognizes campuses that demonstrate dedication and offer outstanding, data-driven, goal-focused comprehensive counseling programs aligned with the American School Counselor Association (ASCA) National Model. Recipients undergo a rigorous application process that showcases their year-long work in implementing best practices within a comprehensive, developmental school counseling program.
Great Oaks Elementary and CD Fulkes Middle School earned Silver and Rising Star level designations, respectively, while Redbud Elementary received the Bronze award.
“Being recognized by LSSCA isn't just an award for the individual counselors; it's a testament to a profound commitment that ensures every student is seen, supported, and empowered to navigate their academic and personal journey toward a brighter future,” said Steve Clark, Director of Counseling Services at Round Rock ISD. “Counselors don't just 'fix problems'; they implement proactive, data-driven programs that teach essential life skills, resilience, and self-advocacy and connect academic planning to future goals.”
Additionally, Marisa Cano, counselor at Deerpark Middle School, was chosen for the Presidential Award, a distinction that reflects exceptional leadership, unwavering dedication, and meaningful impact on the field of school counseling.
She said the award was a pleasant surprise.
“There are so many school counselors doing amazing things in the state of Texas and Round Rock ISD,” Cano said. “We are constantly trying to affect positive change on various levels, big and small, but much of our work is done behind the scenes due to the nature of our jobs. When someone takes notice, especially the president of LSSSCA, one can't help but feel flattered!”
These recognitions reflect a district-wide commitment to creating a comprehensive framework that elevates not only a single student's path but also the entire student body's academic, career, and social-emotional success.