TVAH Junior Ashlee Finnegan Shines at TXPSTA Competition

Ashlee Finnegan, an exceptional 11th-grade student at Texas Virtual Academy at Hallsville (TVAH), recently achieved a remarkable milestone by securing first place in the Misdemeanor Traffic Stop category at the Texas Public Service Teacher Association (TXPSTA) Region 4 competition on December 14, 2024.

The TXPSTA hosts this competition annually to challenge and prepare high school students for potential careers in public service sectors such as law enforcement, firefighting, corrections, legal and emergency medical services. This platform serves as an invaluable opportunity for students to gain practical experience and showcase their skills across multiple disciplines.

Ashlee, who has both autism and dyslexia, demonstrated incredible determination and resilience. Under the expert guidance of Mr. Castro, a veteran police officer with 33 years of experience, Ashlee honed her skills meticulously. From mastering the intricacies of conducting a traffic stop to learning how to dress appropriately as an officer and write citations, Ashlee has embraced every aspect of her training with enthusiasm and dedication.

Now, Ashlee has set her sights on a new challenge — competing in the State competition in Houston in February 2025. She will compete against 18 other talented students from across the state. As Ashlee prepares for the State competition, her school and community rally behind her, cheering her on as she continues to break barriers and represent TVAH.

Read more about Ashlee’s story here.