Allen, Baca kick off school year as Spearman High School September Students of the Month
Contact: Kassidy Baker, 806-659-1808, kassidy.baker@spearmanisd.net
Copy by: Filiberto Avila, 806-659-1845, filiberto.avila@spearmanisd.net
SPEARMAN, Texas (Sept. 4, 2025) — Spearman High School recognizes seniors Matthew Allen and Jaslene Baca as the Panhandle First Bank September Students of the Month, honoring two students whose leadership, character, and academic excellence set them apart.
Principal Shannon Jackson said the recognition highlights the school’s commitment to celebrating student achievement and leadership.
“Matt exemplifies the leadership Spearman High School is committed to developing in our students. His dedication to each organization he is involved in and his willingness to serve as president or treasurer in several of them speaks to his leadership and dedication,” Jackson said. “It is these qualities, along with his steadfast success academically, that make him a clear choice for our first gentleman student of the month.”
Allen, the son of Mark and Brandea Allen, is known for balancing athletics, leadership, and academics. He competes in tennis, football, and swimming while also serving as senior class president, student council president, and FFA chapter president as well as FFA District treasurer.
“I love the community and how everyone is always willing to help and support each other,” Allen said. “That’s what makes being part of Spearman so special.”
Jackson says Baca demonstrates an unwavering loyalty to her family, friends, and everyone at Spearman High School.
“I have witnessed this quality in the constant support and help she offers in every class or activity to students and teachers alike,” Jackson said. “Managing all of her activities and grades while still finding the time to support those around her is an incredible attribute that speaks to her being the top candidate for the first lady student of the month.”
Baca, the daughter of Carlos and Karina Baca, brings that same spirit of involvement. A standout on the golf course and basketball court, she helped lead the Lynxette golf team to a state runner-up finish last year.
“Spearman is a town full of support and love,” Baca said. “While being involved in athletics, I’ve felt so much gratitude knowing I have the community of Spearman supporting me.”
Allen’s dedication carries into the classroom, where he has earned a place on the All-A Honor Roll as well as the Frank Phillips College President’s Honor Roll. He said he is most excited for tennis season this year and named Dr. Michael Ralston as his most influential teacher. Baca also credits Ralston’s guidance, saying he has been the most influential teacher in her high school career.
“The most important lesson I’ve learned is not to wait until the last minute on assignments,” Baca said. Her advice to underclassmen: “Enjoy every moment you get. Live your high school years with no regret and strive to always do your best no matter what.”
Outside of school, Allen enjoys hunting, skeet shooting, tennis, and spending time with his dogs. Baca prefers golfing with her father and brothers, shopping with her mother, and time with friends.
Looking ahead, Allen plans to attend Texas A&M University, while Baca will pursue accounting at Texas Tech University.
Ralston, whom both students named as their most influential teacher, said their recognition comes as no surprise. They know the importance of being educated and being a learner for life.
“Both Jaslene and Matt impressed me with their desire to learn and expand their worlds. They were willing to be challenged to try new things and see things from a different perspective,” Ralston said. “These two students are also deeply involved in their school and their community. Their contributions to both arenas show their ability to prioritize and plan in order to make the most of their time.”