Arlington ISD’s 2025-2026 school year kicked off with CBS 11’s now annual School Bus Party.
Morning anchors Madison Sawyer and Carmen Blackwell hopped on an Arlington ISD bus at their news station at about 6 a.m. bound for Lamar High School. But they made two stops first – first they picked up Arlington ISD Superintendent Dr. Matt Smith and then Lamar P-TECH seniors Karma Eppes and Fred Threats Jr.
“The opportunity to speak with the news anchors of CBS Texas was an incredible experience,” Threats said, “not only because it presented an atmosphere to promote P-TECH at Lamar, but also the culture of the school, and most importantly the excellence within public school …”
Threats loved sharing their Viking pride – “which is especially touching for me as a senior this year!” he said.
When the bus arrived a few minutes later at the Lamar football field, the riders got off and joined a full-on pep rally, with the Lamar band, cheerleaders, drill team, FFA students, teachers and more.
“What a great first day!” said Lamar principal Lesley Maroney. “Seeing our students, teachers, administrators, and families come together, bright and early on the very first day of school shows the incredible things that happen when all Vikings unite in true VFND fashion. Let’s do it again tomorrow!”
When CBS’ cameras stopped rolling this morning, it was time to get to class.
Watch the School Bus Party morning show here: