News Stories

Eagle Mountain-Saginaw ISD is proud to serve a growing community of military-connected students and families. Located just minutes from NAS JRB Fort Worth, the district has strengthened its support systems in recent years through designated Military Family Liaisons on every campus, expanded transition resources, social-emotional supports, and intentional recognition of the unique needs of military families. 
  
For the Densmore family, who have lived in EMS ISD for nearly 13 years, that support has made a lasting difference. David and Kim Densmore moved to the Marine Creek Ranch area when their oldest son, Sam, was just 11 months old. They were looking for a neighborhood where their children could grow, forge positive friendships, and attend strong public schools. 
  
“We wanted a community with yards, a pool, and a place where our kids could run and play,” Kim said. “It felt warm and welcoming from the beginning, and we have been really happy here ever since.” 
  
Today, Sam is in eighth grade and Caleb is in sixth grade at Ed Willkie Middle School. Both boys are involved in band and the library book battles. Sam also participates in cross country, National Junior Honor Society, and other extracurricular activities. Their involvement is a direct reflection of what the family values most about EMS ISD: opportunity, relationships, and community. 
  
“I feel like the district offers so many opportunities for kids,” Kim said. “Whether it is activities, sports, clubs, tutoring, or just the social side of growing up, there is something for every child. The teachers really build relationships, and there is always someone willing to help.” 
  
As a military family, the Densmores have also seen how campus culture can help students feel connected. Ed Willkie hosts the “Purple Badger” group, a monthly gathering for students from military families. The boys explained that the group meets in the library and plays games, giving students a simple but meaningful space to spend time with peers who share similar experiences. 
  
The school’s counselors and teachers also incorporate mental health check-ins and presentations throughout the year. “There are a lot of groups and support available,” Sam said. “It helps kids feel like they are not alone.” 

  
David serves as a pilot in the Air Force Reserve. His current role includes full-time training as his unit transitions to a new aircraft. Although the schedule can vary, the family says EMS ISD has helped make balancing military life and school life manageable. 
  
“The district does a nice job supporting military families and recognizing their service,” David said. “Events like the Veterans Day breakfast make the kids feel special. And even when I cannot be there, the communication is excellent. I always know their grades, what they are studying, and what is coming up, which helps a lot.” 
  
Kim agrees that communication has been one of the district’s greatest strengths. “I cannot think of a time I have reached out to a teacher or staff member and not received a response,” she said. “Teachers are kind and supportive, and they understand that families sometimes have a lot going on. When David was gone for training, I emailed one teacher just to explain that he would be away for several weeks. They were so receptive and understanding.” 
  
EMS ISD’s Military Family Liaison program also stood out as an important layer of support for families navigating transitions, deployments, or new school environments. Each campus liaison assists with academic planning, communication, tutoring resources, social-emotional needs, and connections to external military-support organizations. David shared that having a dedicated point of contact can make a meaningful difference, especially for families who are entering the district for the first time or adjusting to changes at home. 
  
“I can see those roles being very important, especially for families coming in from out of state or for a parent who is deployed,” David said. “Having someone to help guide them through school expectations or transitions would make a huge difference.” 
  

District leaders echo that commitment. Dr. John Fahey, Director of College, Career, and Military Readiness, emphasized that EMS ISD’s close partnership with NAS JRB is central to supporting military-connected students. “Our strong and collaborative partnership with NAS JRB sets us apart,” Fahey said. “We are passionate about serving those who serve our nation. It is the least we can do.” 
  
As the district recognizes CCMR Week, he also noted EMS ISD’s dedication to preparing all students for their next steps. “We want our military families to know that EMS ISD is deeply committed to preparing every student for success, whether their path leads to college, a career, or military service,” Fahey said. “We take pride in equipping them not only with knowledge, but also with character, resilience, and leadership.” 
  
Through 13 years in EMS ISD, the Densmores say the combination of strong schools, caring teachers, and a connected neighborhood community has given their children a true sense of belonging. 
  
“The military gives you a great support system, and EMS ISD has given us another one,” Kim said. “Together, it just makes everything feel seamless. We cannot imagine leaving the district until the boys finish school. It has been a great place to raise our family.” 
  
For military families considering a move to EMS ISD, the Densmores say the answer is simple. “It is a strong district, close to the base, and very welcoming,” Kim said. “You can feel the support and the community. It really is a great place for military families to call home.” 
  
To explore resources and support available to military-connected students and families, visit the EMS ISD Military Families page at www.emsisd.com/MilitaryFamilies.