Lewisville Independent School District celebrated an unprecedented showing at the 2026 UIL State Marching Contest held Tuesday in Austin. The district’s flagship program, the Lewisville Jags, captured a back‑to‑back first‑place finish, adding a fourth title in six years to the district’s growing legacy of musical excellence.
District schools fill the top spots
In addition to the Jags’ victory, two other LISD high schools earned podium positions. Hebron High School placed second with a moving rendition of “Somewhere in Time,” directed by Travis Pruitt, while Marcus High School secured fourth place after a strong preliminary showing, performing “At the Threshold” under the direction of Jeffrey D. Jones. The depth of talent across the district underscores the strength of its fine‑arts curriculum and the dedication of its directors, students, parents and boosters.
Flower Mound repeats as state champion
Just a short drive north, Flower Mound High School repeated as UIL state marching champion, delivering a dramatic performance of “Prelude to Scream – The Moments Leading Up to the Famous Painting by Edvard Munch.” The show, directed by Brent Biskup, earned the band’s enthusiastic comment, “We brought home the bacon,” posted to social media after the competition.
Community support and tradition
Lewisville ISD’s Fine Arts programs are overseen by Director Amy Drinkwater, whose leadership has helped sustain a culture of excellence that benefits students across the district. In a social‑media statement, the district praised the collective effort: “From the grueling August rehearsals to the final notes on the state stage, our LISD student‑musicians, directors, parents, and boosters continue to set the standard of excellence in Texas. Congratulations to all of our incredible students on another historic season.”
The district’s success is not limited to competition results. Last year, the Jags band assisted fellow state finalist Austin Vendegrift when his equipment truck was struck by a train, exemplifying the camaraderie that defines Texas marching‑band culture. Vendegrift returned this year and finished third, adding another chapter to the story of mutual support among Texas schools.
Regional pride
Just down the road, Argyle High School also captured a state title in the 5A classification, marking its first championship at that level. The cluster of achievements highlights the vibrant music‑education ecosystem in Denton County and the surrounding North Texas region.
These victories provide more than trophies; they reinforce the role of school‑based arts programs in fostering discipline, teamwork and community pride—values that align with the traditional family and faith‑centered fabric of our area. Parents report that participation in marching band strengthens student character and offers a constructive outlet that complements academic pursuits.
Looking ahead
With the 2027 season on the horizon, LISD directors are already planning next year’s show concepts and rehearsal schedules. The district hopes to maintain its momentum, encouraging more students to join the program and continue the tradition of musical excellence that has become a hallmark of Lewisville education.
For families and supporters wishing to attend upcoming performances, the district will post dates and ticket information on its website and social‑media channels. Community members are encouraged to cheer on their local bands, reinforcing the partnership between schools and the neighborhoods they serve.
Original reporting: Cross Timbers Gazette — read the source article.
