Texarkana Independent School District celebrated its 2026 Distinguished Alumni on Friday, honoring three former graduates whose careers embody the district’s commitment to lifelong learning, public service, and meaningful contributions to society.
Honorees and their legacies
Dr. Loretta Rhodes‑Sanders, a 1965 graduate of Dunbar High School, brings more than 50 years of experience in public education. Beginning as a special‑education teacher with Texarkana ISD, she later spent 24 years with Fort Worth ISD. Dr. Rhodes‑Sanders earned a Doctor of Education in Curriculum and Instruction from Texas Wesleyan University and is a member of the Kappa Delta Pi International Honor Society in Education. Her accolades include the 2022 Fort Worth ISD Service Award and selection as a Top Educator in 2023.
Melva Hildreth Flowers, class of 1970 at Texas High School, has devoted more than four decades to education, public service, and community leadership. She serves as an adjunct instructor and student‑retention adviser at Texarkana College, and leads two nonprofit groups: Texarkana Resources for the Disabled and the Village Communities of Texarkana Board of Commissioners. In 2025, Flowers was named the Texas & Southwest Regional NAHRO Commissioner of the Year and received the Living Legend Award from Jarvis Christian University.
Jim Pendergast, a 1981 Texas High School graduate, has spent over 40 years in aerospace engineering and human spaceflight. A Texas A&M University alumnus, Pendergast’s career includes service with the U.S. Air Force and NASA’s Johnson Space Center, where he contributed to space‑shuttle missions, the International Space Station, and the Orion, Artemis, and Gateway programs. He has led development of critical spacecraft systems and held mission‑operations and safety‑leadership roles, earning the NASA Distinguished Award.
District perspective
Interim Superintendent Sherri Penix praised the honorees, stating, “These alumni exemplify the values Texarkana ISD seeks to instill in every student: a commitment to lifelong learning, dedication to public service and the drive to make meaningful contributions to society.” The recognition underscores the district’s focus on celebrating role models who inspire current students to pursue excellence in education, community involvement, and professional achievement.
Why these stories matter locally
By highlighting the accomplishments of former students who have risen to prominence in education and aerospace, Texarkana ISD reinforces the importance of strong family values, faith‑based perseverance, and individual liberty—principles that resonate deeply within the community. The alumni’s dedication to service reflects the district’s mission to nurture responsible citizens who contribute positively to both local and national spheres.
Community members are encouraged to attend future district events that honor outstanding graduates and to support local initiatives that foster mentorship, academic achievement, and civic responsibility.
Original reporting: Texarkana Gazette — read the source article.
