October 17, 2025, Lancaster ISD/Lancaster, TX --During halftime of the highly anticipated Lancaster High School versus Duncanville football game, Lancaster ISD paused the competition to honor one of its own, Ms. Shalundria Bell, a breast cancer survivor, educator, and inspiration to the Tiger community.
Bell, who currently serves as an assistant principal at Pleasant Run Elementary School, was recognized as the district’s Pink October Breast Cancer Survivor Honoree. In addition to her leadership role, she is also the reigning Lancaster ISD Teacher of the Year, celebrated for her passion for education, her faith, and her unwavering commitment to students.
The annual Pink Out Game, held in recognition of Breast Cancer Awareness Month, serves as a reminder of courage, hope, and early detection. This year’s honoree embodies each of those values through her personal journey of survival and strength.
Bell was first diagnosed with breast cancer on January 25, 2014. She describes it as both life-changing and faith-defining.
“It’s a day I’ll never forget. The day my life changed, but also the day I began my journey of faith, strength, and survival,” she shared.
Her diagnosis came after she discovered a lump in her breast and trusted her instincts to get it checked out.
“I went to Planned Parenthood, and they immediately referred me to the emergency room, where I had two biopsies done. I’m grateful I paid attention to my body and acted quickly. It made all the difference,” she said.
Throughout her treatment, Bell’s faith in God served as her greatest source of strength.
“Prayer kept me grounded and gave me peace, even on the hardest days,” she said. “My family and friends reminded me that I wasn’t alone and surrounded me with love and encouragement. Knowing that God had a plan for my life helped me push forward with hope, courage, and determination.”
At the end of her treatment, there was no ceremonial bell to ring and no formal moment to mark her victory over cancer. But in a beautiful twist of fate, her name was Bell, and simply being her; standing strong, resilient, and faithful was celebration enough.
“Even without a bell, I celebrated in my heart because I knew I had overcome something that could have broken me,” she reflected.
When asked what she would tell someone newly diagnosed, Bell offered words of compassion and hope.
“Stay positive and never lose faith. Surround yourself with love, prayer, and people who bring light into your life. You are stronger than you think. Take it one step at a time, trust the process, and believe that healing is possible.”
Bell also emphasizes the importance of early detection.
“It’s better to take a few minutes each year for a mammogram than to face the unknown later,” she said. “Love yourself enough to schedule that appointment every year. Taking care of yourself isn’t selfish; it’s an act of love and strength.”
As she stood on the field under the Friday night lights, surrounded by cheers from students, staff, and the Lancaster community, Bell reflected on how far she has come.
“I want people to know that I am living proof that faith, strength, and a positive mindset can carry you through anything,” she said. “I am more than a survivor. I am a thriver, a testimony, and a reminder that hope is powerful.”
Through her story and her service, Ms. Shalundria Bell continues to shine as a light of perseverance, purpose, and pride, embodying the true spirit of Lancaster ISD.