Geronimo, TX – January 18, 2025 –  In an exciting culmination of months of preparation and practice, Navarro ISD named Paityn Lange, a fifth grader from Navarro Intermediate, as the district champion of the inaugural Panther Shake competition. It all “shook” out in the final round, held on January 17, showcasing the impressive communication and social skills of six young finalists from 1st to 5th grade.

"The Panther Shake program is more than just learning a proper handshake," said Superintendent Mandy Epley. "It's about building confidence, developing essential life skills such as making eye contact, listening, carrying on a conversation, and the importance of building positive relationships within our community. We are incredibly proud of all our young finalists for their bravery and dedication."

The competition saw the finalists present their unique introductions and handshakes to a panel of esteemed judges, including Seguin Mayor Donna Dodgen, Guadalupe County Judge Kyle Kutscher, Fire Marshal Patrick Pinder, Guadalupe County Sheriff’s Office Training Coordinator Sgt. Delane Barnes, Navarro ISD Board President Melissa Sartain, and Superintendent Mandy Epley. Students were evaluated on factors such as greeting, handshake, confidence, voice and volume, conversational skills, and overall success.

In addition to Paityn Lange, the following students were recognized as finalists and will represent their campus as a Panther Shake Ambassador:

• Addie Van Booven, 5th grade
• Julianna Coppedge, 4th grade
• Wyatt Smith, 2nd grade
• Cooper Clardy, 1st grade
• Nash Foerster, 1st grade

“We were both so impressed at the response of this program which has been a fantastic experience for our students," said Panther Shake campus leaders Mrs. Wehe from Navarro Elementary and Mrs. Gregersen from Navarro Intermediate. "It’s difficult for some adults to have conversations with other adults, let alone children speaking with adults. We are so proud of how these students have shown bravery and  grown in confidence to learn valuable social skills that will benefit them throughout their lives."

Navarro ISD would like to thank our campus leaders, judges and especially our parents for their support and enthusiasm for the Panther Shake initiative. We look forward to continuing this new tradition each year.