Class of 1982
Class of 1982
Keri Ross Thoele
Keri Ross Thoele is a graduate from Splendora High School’s Class of 1982. After high school, Keri received her Bachelor of Arts in Teaching from Sam Houston State University, her Master’s in Educational Leadership from Tarleton State University, and her Superintendent Certification from San Angelo State University. After a 30-year career in education, which included teaching English and serving as a High School Principal and a district Assistant Superintendent, she retired to pursue her love of writing. In 2019, she published her first novel, Fifty & Failing, Fabulously! Keri has also written articles for newspapers, magazines, and online publications, including Criminal Justice Law International and Military Corruption. Keri’s quote: Believe you can, do the work necessary, and be fabulous from the inside out!
When asked what does it mean to be a Wildcat, Keri replied, "Several key SHS teachers instilled in me a love for education, the skills to be successful in college and beyond, and the confidence to take risks and chase my dreams! Caring educators make a difference!”
A proud member of Splendora High School’s Class of 1982, Tonya LaBouve Thornton was an active Wildcat, participating in the National Honor Society, Student Council, Prom Committee, and Yearbook Staff. She served as Student Council President and was also honored as Homecoming Queen and Miss SHS.
After graduation, Tonya earned a bachelor’s degree in Elementary Education from Sam Houston State University and later a master’s degree in Library Science. A lifelong reader and learner, she spent 23 years in education, with more than half of her career serving in the library.
After retiring in 2019, Tonya pursued another lifelong dream—creating art. Today, she is a watercolor artist and surface pattern designer inspired by flowers, nature, and the beauty of everyday life. You can find her work in her Etsy shop, Our Southern Life.
Splendora also holds a special place in Tonya’s heart. It’s where teachers encouraged her to follow her dreams, lifelong friendships began, and she met her husband of 40 years. Together, they have two children, both Wildcats, and two grandchildren.
When asked what it means to be a Wildcat, Tonya shared, “I think about the people who believed in me, the lessons I carried with me, the friendships that have endured, and the dreams that began in our little Texas town.”
Though Splendora has changed over the years, the people, memories, and place that helped shape Tonya will always be a special part of her story.