Growth in El Paso ISD

Kickstart Kids started the new academic year establishing a West Texas Region and welcoming two new schools, Charles Q. Murphree PK-8 School and Captain Gabriel Navarrete Middle School in El Paso Independent School District. Guided by the expertise of veteran instructors Mr. Ramon Henninger and Jeremy McQuivey, both boasting over 20 years with Kickstart Kids, KSK is poised to expand its EPISD footprint and make a lasting impact. They have been joined by Amanda Estrella and Mandi McIntyre. Get ready for an exciting journey ahead!

With praise for the program, Superintendent Diana Sayavedra stated, “At El Paso ISD, we are committed to creating an educational environment that not only focuses on academic growth but also emphasizes social and emotional development. The Kickstart program perfectly embodies our goals by offering personalized learning, fostering a strong support system through community partnerships, and equipping students with the skills needed for a successful future.”

(Mr. Ramon Henninger participating in a demonstration with his student)

Tournament Season: 2023 Fall Qualifier

Tournament season kicked off with excitement this semester, featuring our Fall Qualifier tournament. The season was a resounding success, hosting over 1,400 competitors from Central, North, and Southeast Texas regions. Students competed enthusiastically for the chance to advance to the Regional Tournaments, where students can earn a spot in the State Championship Tournament and vie for the prestigious title of Grand Champion.

KSK tournaments serve as an intermural and interregional stage for students to display their athletic skills, to find inspiration and motivation, and to engage with their counterparts from across the state. Beyond the individual competition, contestants display the values of sportsmanship and teamwork, exemplifying personal growth and excellence as martial artists.

Holiday Celebration – Celebrating 31 Years of Kickstart Kids

On a perfect December evening, Alice and Keith Mosing opened their home to host an intimate gathering honoring Kickstart Kids. The festive holiday setting and spirited conversations set the tone as guests arrived and mingled. Founders and co-hosts, Chuck and Gena Norris welcomed friends and supporters and then introduced a dynamic martial arts performance by the Stevenson Middle School and Dulles Middle School Demo Teams. After cheering on the students with applause and praise, the audience was treated to a heartfelt testimonial from Dulles Middle School Principal Dr. Reginald Brown describing the positive impact Kickstart Kids has had on his campus and his students , including their high level of academic achievement.

The emcees for the night were Kickstart Kids Director of Operations John Kurek, Executive Director Joan Neuhaus, and the new Director of Development and Communications, Ms. Emily Shoemaker. Upon conclusion of the formal program, the Norrises and Mosings greeted the the group. Guests were invited to have photos taken with Mr. & Mrs. Norris, enjoy hors d’oeuvres and cocktails, and meet the martial artists of Kickstart Kids. Everyone was reminded to mark their calendars for the 31st Anniversary Boots and Black Belts Gala to be held on April 27th, 2024 at The Post Oak Hotel at Uptown Houston. (Tickets Available Here!)

Photos taken by David Shutts