Dr. Chris Allen didn’t begin with a résumé or a list of accomplishments. Instead, he opened the November board meeting with a story—a memory he described as “pure Pete Rusek.”
He told the room about the time Mr. Rusek joined his daughter, followed by his wife, and biked all the way to California. Not a quick trip. Not a casual adventure. A cross-country ride fueled by grit, optimism, and the kind of determination that only comes from believing the journey matters as much as the destination.
That story set the tone for the recognition that followed: honoring Pete Rusek as the 2025 Friend of Midway.
As Dr. Allen spoke, you could immediately understand why he chose that moment. Mr. Rusek’s leadership has always mirrored that bike ride—never discouraging, never simply encouraging from the sidelines, but stepping in beside you, steadying the path, and saying, “Let’s do this together.”
With that spirit in the room, Mr. Rusek stepped forward to receive Midway’s one-of-a-kind blown-glass Friend of Midway bowl, his wife Robbye honored alongside him for the years of quiet strength and support she has poured into him and Midway ISD. The moment felt less like an award ceremony and more like closing a chapter in a story the entire community has lived alongside him.
Mr. Rusek, who has served on the Board of Trustees since 1996 and as Board President for the past 20 years, has shaped nearly every major milestone in Midway’s modern history. From the day Mr. Rusek joined the Board through the Class of 2025, 14,560 Midway graduates have crossed the stage—students whose own journeys were strengthened by the stability, vision, and steady leadership he helped provide.
Under his leadership, Midway experienced:
- 28% student enrollment growth since 2004
- Completion of major bond programs, including:
- 2001 Bond ($51M): Midway High School, Woodway Elementary
- 2008 Bond ($75.8M): River Valley, Castleman Creek, MHS expansion, Panther Stadium, Administration Building, Support Services, Ag Barn
- 2013 Bond ($34M): Midway Activity Center, campus expansions, districtwide 1:1 technology rollout, Fine Arts expansion
- 2019 Bond ($148M): CTE Center at MHS, River Valley, Midway Middle renovation, Chapel Park and Park Hill
- 2025 Bond ($83.5M): Safety, maintenance, and technology upgrades — with no tax rate increase
- Consistent fiscal stewardship
- Stability through three superintendent transitions
- Board-approved legislative priorities supporting public education, teacher recruitment, and increased funding
In every role, Mr. Rusek led with a focus on people, long-term planning, and what would best serve students and families. As evidenced by the staff and campus leadership that spoke to his dedication and longevity, his influence can be seen in classrooms, campuses, boardrooms, and community partnerships across the district.
In September, Governor Greg Abbott appointed Pete Rusek to the 74th Judicial District Court, beginning a new chapter in his service to the community and requiring him to step down from the Board after three decades.
Midway ISD extends heartfelt gratitude to Pete and Robbye Rusek for their unwavering dedication, wisdom, and love for this district. Their leadership will continue shaping Midway for years to come.
Congratulations to Pete Rusek—our 2025 Friend of Midway—and thank you for nearly 30 years of exceptional service to the Midway community.
