Gleason ES Rodeo Day

Cesar Deleon appears as a larger-than-life cowboy along with his handler Elizabeth Guerrero at the Gleason ES Rodeo Day event.

Students at Gleason ES recently enjoyed a special Rodeo Day event courtesy of the Houston Rodeo Committee. Each year, during rodeo season, committee members select campuses to visit and present educational and entertaining stations for students. Gleason teacher Pam Salley submitted the school as a possible location for such a visit. Campuses are evaluated prior to selection to make sure the schedule and space requirements can be met. 

On the day of the event, stations were set up and overseen by more than 20 volunteers from the rodeo committee. Each booth had a theme, covering such topics as rodeo history, cowboy life and cattle ranching. Student groups had the opportunity to experience each station, transitioning between them every 25 minutes. The sound of galloping horse hooves was played over the school PA system to signal students when it was time to transition. As part of the festive occasion, students were encouraged to come to school in western wear.

“All of our students, from pre-K through fifth-grade, really enjoyed each station,” said Nancy Skinner, Gleason secretary. “We look forward to hosting this event again.”

Campuses must wait three years after hosting a Rodeo Day event before they are eligible to be selected again. 

Gleason students (L-R) Vincent Guarino and Londyn Bean have a chance to try out western dancing after hearing a presentation about its place in rodeo history.

Lillian Meche shows off her dance skills and western wear at the Gleason ES Rodeo Day event.

Melanie Rodriguez displays her drawing of a longhorn steer at a Rodeo Day arts and crafts station.