Carroll ISD Hosts Highly Successful U.S. Service Academies Forum, Welcoming Nearly 900 Attendees

Carroll ISD proudly hosted the North Texas U.S. Service Academies Forum on Saturday, April 25, at the Carroll ISD Performing Arts Center, bringing together nearly 900 students, families, and community members for an engaging and informative morning focused on military service, education and leadership.

This free event, open to all area middle and high school students and their families, provided an excellent opportunity to learn more about the nation’s U.S. Service Academies, including admission requirements and the highly competitive nomination and appointment process. Attendees connected directly with representatives from the U.S. Military Academy, U.S. Naval Academy, U.S. Air Force Academy, U.S. Coast Guard Academy, and U.S. Merchant Marine Academy.

"Military service is one of the most meaningful opportunities we can offer students," said CISD School Board President Cam Bryan, "and we're proud to host an event that opens those doors."

The offices of U.S. Senator Ted Cruz, U.S. Senator John Cornyn, and nine additional North Texas Congressional representatives co-hosted the event, underscoring the strong regional commitment to supporting students interested in military service.

The morning began with a welcome from Carroll ISD Superintendent Dr. Jeremy Glenn and Board President Cam Bryan. Both leaders emphasized the importance of service and CISD's commitment to providing area students with access to meaningful postsecondary options. President Bryan then welcomed special guest U.S. Congresswoman Beth Van Duyne, who represents Texas’ 24th Congressional District. Her office, along with that of of U.S. Congressman Brandon Gill, played an instrumental role in organizing and supporting the event.

"You're not looking for the easy path," Congresswoman Van Duyne told students, "You're looking for a meaningful one." She added "Thank you for choosing challenge over comfort, duty over ease and service over self interest."

Throughout the forum, students and families participated in Q&A sessions and discussion panels, gaining valuable insight into the admissions process, medical qualifications, and Congressional nomination procedures required for academy acceptance. Representatives and panelists offered firsthand knowledge, answered questions, and shared guidance on how students can best prepare academically, physically, and personally for a future in uniform.

Moderator Paul Cristina, CEO of the Denton County Transportation Authority and a U.S. Air Force Academy graduate, served as panel moderator and lead thoughtful and engaging panel discussions that enriched the experience and kept the half-day program on schedule.

After the panels, students had the opportunity to connect directly with Academy spokespersons, Congressional staff and ROTC representatives, to ask specific questions and gain a more detailed understanding of the various routes available for those interested in military service.

The event created a powerful and inspiring environment, connecting North Texas students with leaders and mentors dedicated to helping them explore careers in the Armed Services. For many, it was a first-hand look at the commitment, discipline, and opportunities associated with attending a U.S. Service Academy and the role of military officers. 

Carroll ISD is honored to have served as the host site for this impactful regional event and remains committed to providing students with opportunities that expand their horizons, support their goals, and prepare them for success beyond graduation.

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