PASADENA, TX — Dr. Dixie Melillo Middle School has been honored as a “School That Inspires” by Good Reason Houston, a prestigious recognition awarded to only a select group of schools across the Houston area. The school received its official banner on Monday, May 5, and celebrated the achievement with students, staff, and families during its annual Melillo Mustangs Carnival on Friday, May 16.

This year’s theme for the award focused on student achievement, with Good Reason Houston identifying schools where student success defies expectations based on demographic data. Melillo Middle School stood out among hundreds of campuses across 13 Houston-area districts, ultimately being named one of just 18 semifinalists—and one of the few to receive the final honor.

“We didn’t apply for this recognition—Good Reason Houston came to us,” said Principal Jennifer Sauceda. “They visited our campus in February, observed our classrooms, and interviewed our leadership team. This award validated the incredible work our teachers and staff do every day.”

The recognition celebrates schools where all students—including Black, Latino, Emergent Bilingual, and Special Education populations—are thriving above both state and local averages. According to Sauceda, the school’s success is rooted in its culture of high expectations, strong relationships, and a commitment to making learning engaging and meaningful."Our motto is ‘One Team, One Dream,’ because we believe education is a partnership between the school, the student, and the families we serve,” Sauceda said. “Melillo is a school of high academic standards with a strong emphasis on social-emotional learning and outstanding fine arts programs.”

As part of the honor, Melillo’s staff will enjoy a year of special perks and celebrations, and the school was also featured on Great Day Houston with Debra Duncan.

“This recognition is not just about test scores—it’s about the heart of our school,” Sauceda added. “Our teachers are the secret sauce. They mentor, they inspire, and they make learning fun.”

For more information about Good Reason Houston and the “Schools That Inspire” initiative, visit goodreasonhouston.org.