For Immediate Release
February 25, 2026
IRVING, Texas — The Texas Alliance of Black School Educators (TABSE) has named Lancaster Independent School District as its 2026 Dr. Thomas Randle Demonstration District, recognizing districtwide excellence in leadership, instructional systems, and student achievement. The honor was announced during the 41st Annual TABSE State Conference, held at the Omni Las Colinas in Irving.
The Demonstration District designation is one of TABSE’s most prestigious honors and is awarded to districts that demonstrate sustained success, visionary leadership, and measurable progress in closing achievement gaps for students across multiple campuses. Lancaster ISD was recognized for its strong systems of support, districtwide instructional focus, and impressive 100 percent graduation rate for four consecutive years under the leadership of Superintendent Dr. A. K. Perera.
“Demonstration Districts exemplify what it looks like to lead with purpose and deliver results for students,” said TABSE President Dr. Darwin Spiller. “Lancaster ISD stands out as a model of excellence and collaboration that other districts across the state can learn from.”
In addition to the district recognition, TABSE also honored four campuses as 2026 Dr. Jay Cummings Demonstration Schools. This designation recognizes high-performing, majority-minority schools that serve as models of instructional excellence, school culture, and leadership.
The 2026 TABSE Dr. Jay Cummings Demonstration Schools are:
- Royal Early Childhood Center, Royal ISD
- I.M. Terrell Academy for STEM and Visual and Performing Arts, Fort Worth ISD
- George Washington Carver 6th Grade STEM Learning Center, Lancaster ISD
- Sims Elementary School, Texas City ISD
As Demonstration Schools, these campuses will support professional learning across Texas by sharing best practices, resources, and strategies that have contributed to improved student outcomes.
The Demonstration District and Demonstration Schools were recognized during the TABSE Awards Gala and annual Founder’s Luncheon.
