Contact: Kassidy Baker, 806-659-1808, kassidy.baker@spearmanisd.net
Copy by: Filiberto Avila, 806-659-1845, filiberto.avila@spearmanisd.net
SPEARMAN, Texas (Feb. 6, 2026) — Spearman High School has announced seniors Kaleb Puentes and Emily Hernandez as the Panhandle First Bank February Students of the Month. Both students are recognized for their academic achievement, campus involvement, and individual growth throughout their high school careers.
Principal Shannon Jackson said the February honorees reflect perseverance, leadership, and readiness for life beyond high school.
“Kaleb has incredible resilience that Spearman High School hopes to develop in our students,” Jackson said. “He has overcome much adversity to excel in his school work. Not only does this trait help in his school work, it shows in his participation in several organizations and sports teams.”
Jackson added that Hernandez demonstrates dedication, organization, and a strong commitment to personal growth.
“Emily has a quiet strength that we hope all Spearman High School students can use throughout their lives,” Jackson said. “She uses this trait to achieve all her goals. Whether working countless concession stands or ensuring other classmates complete their obligations to their chosen organization, she is there making sure it all gets done.”
Kaleb Puentes
Puentes, the son of the late Kristal Puentes and stepson of Coy Herrington, is recognized for his wide-ranging involvement and academic accomplishments. He has participated in Future Farmers of America, National Honor Society, Spanish Club, Student Council, Yearbook, the Spearman Stingrays, and the Spearman Swim Team. He has also competed in cross country, football, and track.
His achievements include qualifying three times as a regional swim competitor, earning Top Student honors in sports medicine, and joining the 30-Point Club for ACT reading.
Outside of school, Puentes enjoys spending time with friends, reading, working out, playing games, and staying active.
After graduation, Puentes hopes to attend the Colorado School of Mines, where he plans to double major in mechanical and aerospace engineering.
Puentes described his senior year as eventful, laid-back, and amazing, noting that high school has helped prepare him for the next chapter of his life and the opportunities ahead.
He identified Dr. Michael Ralston as his most influential teacher.
“Dr. Ralston has helped me both in and out of school with every situation I’ve gone to,” Puentes said. “He’s taught me how to grow as a person and to see things from a broader perspective. Taking his class changed how I think.”
“I have seen a remarkable change in Kaleb over the last two years,” Ralston said. "He has become the achiever that his mother would celebrate.”
Emily Hernandez
Hernandez, the daughter of Gladis Hernandez and sister of Fabian and Zoe Hernandez, is recognized for her involvement in academics, leadership, and agricultural education. She is an active member of Future Farmers of America, National Honor Society, Spanish Club, and Student Council, and she also competes in tennis.
Through FFA, Hernandez shows lambs and enjoys the responsibility and discipline that come with agricultural projects. Outside of school, she enjoys working with her animals and playing tennis in her free time.
After graduation, Hernandez plans to attend West Texas A&M University, where she intends to pursue a Bachelor of Science in nursing. She hopes to gain experience in neonatal intensive care before continuing her education to become a neonatologist.
Hernandez said she values the close-knit nature of Spearman.
“I like the community that Spearman has and the support that everyone gives each other,” she said.
She described her senior year in three words: exciting, stressful, growth.
Her advice to underclassmen: “Be organized and keep track of your assignments. Do not be afraid to ask your teachers, counselor, or even classmates questions.”
Hernandez identified Chelsey Carbajal as her most influential teacher.
“She truly takes the time to understand your questions and answer them in many different ways,” Hernandez said. “Even when math felt hard, she never let any of us fail and always encouraged us to ask questions.”
“Emily is a hard worker that consistently shows up with a smile and a good attitude,” Carbajal said. “She is always willing to do anything that is asked of her and is an encourager of her peers.”
The Student of the Month program, sponsored by Panhandle First Bank, honors juniors and seniors who demonstrate exceptional character, dedication, and involvement. Students are nominated and voted on by the Spearman High School faculty.
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