Downing Middle School student Harper Roban, teacher Ms. Garen and school were all recognized at the Flower Mound Chamber of Commerce's luncheon at the Courtyard Dallas Flower Mound in Flower Mound, Texas on Tuesday, April 15. 

Student of the Month - Harper Roban
Harper is an 8th grade student at Downing Middle School. She is a dedicated student who goes above and beyond what is requested of her. She is an outstanding communicator and is always willing to help her friends and extremely kind to her classmates. She is a very involved student at school, participating in the Downing Athletic Program as well as an active member in the Downing Varsity Treble Choir.

Teacher of the Month - Ms. Garen
Ms. Garen is a shining example of an educator who exceeds expectations to support both students and colleagues. She is compassionate, dedicated, knowledgeable, and engaging. In the classroom, she designs lessons tailored to the diverse needs of her students, ensuring that learners at all levels are challenged and supported. Her commitment extends beyond school hours as she tutors, mentors, and plans to equip every student with the tools to succeed. Beyond academics, Mrs. Garen creates a warm and inviting environment where they naturally gravitate. She takes the time to connect personally with each student, an incredible achievement given the hundreds she interacts with daily. Every morning, she posts a connection question on her whiteboard, sparking excitement and conversations among students. This simple yet impactful practice reflects her deep care and effort to make each student feel valued and heard. 


School of the Month - Downing Middle School
The STEM Academy at Clayton Downing Middle School serves about 537 students in grades 6–8 as part of Lewisville ISD. It offers Gifted & Talented programs and STEM classes in engineering, robotics, design, and science. Eighty-six percent of students participate in fine arts, and 97% are involved in athletics or P.E. Downing is ranked 39th in Texas by U.S. News & World Report and is celebrated for fostering creativity, curiosity, and innovation. Recent honors include: Nationally Certified STEM Campus; Multiple district championships in football, basketball, and track; UIL Sweepstakes in Choir and Orchestra; 2024–25 CREST Award for Outstanding Counseling; and 2024–26 Common Sense Media Campus.

LISD STEM Academy at Downing Middle School is a Flower Mound, Texas middle school serving 6th, 7th and 8th-grade students with a unique STEM education experience in the Lewisville Independent School District. Downing feeds into the Marcus High School attendance zone. Follow Downing on Facebook and Twitter to see more student experiences throughout the school year. Join the Lewisville ISD family by enrolling today!