By Pat Trevino, Managing Editor – Cuero Online News
The Cuero ISD Gobbler Band celebrated its annual Band Banquet Friday, May 15, bringing together students, families, and directors for an evening filled with recognition, gratitude, and heartfelt goodbyes. The event was especially emotional as the program honored its graduating seniors — and marked the final year at Cuero High School for Band Director Mr. Garrett Laird, who began his tenure the same year this senior class entered as freshmen.
Senior students were seated together at a decorated table near the front of the banquet hall, a place of honor that set the tone for the night’s celebrations. Throughout the evening, Mr. Laird personally presented each senior with their graduation cord, pausing to share moments of pride and appreciation for the students he has guided for four years.
Families enjoyed a full meal, and attendees participated in prize drawings, including cash giveaways for those who purchased tickets. The banquet also featured a wide range of student awards, recognizing musical excellence, leadership, dedication, and growth within the program.
A highlight of the night was the announcement of several scholarship recipients, each representing the strength and diversity of the Gobbler Band’s graduating class:
Lucian Salazar — Received a $1,000 scholarship and will attend University of Texas at San Antonio, pursuing a degree in Cybersecurity. 
Ethan Robinson — Awarded a $1000 scholarship and plans to attend Texas A&M University–Kingsville, majoring in Music. He hopes to join either the university’s Jazz Band or Mariachi ensemble. 
Katlyn Geigle — Recipient of the prestigious $1,500 Larry Wolf Scholarship, named in honor of the longtime Cuero Junior High band director. She will attend Texas A&M University–Kingsville, majoring in education. 
Landri Dyer — Awarded a $1,000 scholarship and will attend Stephen F. Austin State University, majoring in Music and Vocal Performance. She plans to join the SFA Lumberjack Band.
As the evening came to a close, applause and emotion filled the room. Students thanked their directors, parents celebrated their children’s achievements, and the band community reflected on the end of an era with Mr. Laird’s departure.
The Gobbler Band continues to be a source of pride for Cuero ISD, and this year’s banquet highlighted not only musical accomplishments but also the strong bonds formed through years of dedication, teamwork, and shared experiences.
Senior band students who received their graduation cords during the banquet
