Families in the Cleveland area have a refreshed place to cast a line after the Leadership East Texas Class of 2025-2026 revitalized and restocked the pond at Cleveland Middle School as a community fishing destination.
The Leadership East Texas Class of 2025-2026 selected the Cleveland Middle School pond as its signature community service project, creating a lasting outdoor destination for families throughout the Cleveland community.
Through the vision and dedication of the Leadership East Texas cohort, the pond has been revitalized to serve as a community fishing pond where families can spend quality time together while enjoying the outdoors. The project reflects a shared commitment to strengthening community connections, promoting healthy recreation and creating opportunities for families to enjoy one of Texas’ favorite pastimes.
Adding to the project’s success, the Texas Parks and Wildlife Department donated fish to stock the pond, helping transform the space into a thriving community resource. Cleveland ISD expressed its gratitude for the department’s partnership and commitment to expanding outdoor recreational opportunities across Texas.
“We are incredibly grateful to Leadership East Texas for choosing Cleveland ISD as the focus of this year’s class project and to Texas Parks and Wildlife for their generous donation of fish,” said Dr. Glenn Barnes, superintendent of Cleveland ISD. “This project represents what can happen when organizations come together with a shared commitment to serving families. The pond is more than a place to fish; it is a place where memories will be made, traditions will begin, and our community can enjoy the outdoors together.”
The long-term vision for the Cleveland Middle School Community Fishing Pond is to provide a sustainable location where families can fish together and keep the fish they catch for personal consumption while complying with all applicable Texas Parks and Wildlife Department fishing regulations.
The pond is now open to the public during daylight hours until dusk. Community members are encouraged to bring their fishing gear, enjoy the peaceful setting and help preserve the area for future generations.
Under Texas Parks and Wildlife regulations:
- Individuals younger than 17 are not required to have a Texas fishing license.
- Anyone 17 years of age or older fishing in public waters must possess a valid Texas freshwater fishing license unless exempt by state law.
- Anglers should follow all statewide bag limits, length limits and other applicable fishing regulations.
To help ensure everyone has a safe and enjoyable experience, visitors are asked to observe the following guidelines:
- Pond open daily during daylight hours until dusk.
- Adult supervision is strongly encouraged for children.
- No swimming or wading is permitted.
- Please properly dispose of all trash and fishing line.
- Respect fellow anglers and Cleveland ISD property.
- Follow all Texas Parks and Wildlife fishing regulations.
Cleveland ISD extended its sincere appreciation to the Leadership East Texas Class of 2025-2026 and the Texas Parks and Wildlife Department for investing in a project that will benefit Cleveland families for years to come. Through strong partnerships and a shared commitment to the community, the new fishing pond stands as a lasting reminder that when organizations work together, meaningful opportunities are created for everyone.