Hector Zapata
Hector Zapata
Hornet of the Hive
Allison Weslie, Staff WriterMay 9, 2025Hornet of the Hive
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Behind many of the posters, certificates, and programs displayed across the Flour Bluff ISD campuses is the creative eye of Hector Zapata, the district’s graphic designer and web specialist. Whether it’s a certificate handed out at a student award ceremony or a flyer hanging proudly in the hallway, Zapata has likely played a part in bringing it to life.
Now in his ninth year at Flour Bluff ISD, Zapata brings nearly two decades of experience in graphic design and web development to the district. His contributions to the print shop may be behind the scenes, but they are far-reaching.
Zapata takes pride in the work he puts out to the public, from awards to committee meetings, Zapata helps facilitate all kinds of needs within FBISD. Photo by: Allison Weslie
“I do a lot of the graphics that come in with print shop orders,” Zapata said. “Whether that’s posters, certificates, programs—just about any type of medium that’s asked for throughout the year.”
His path into graphic design started unconventionally—with a love of cereal boxes and video games that sparked a fascination with layout, design, and interactivity. That early inspiration led to a career dedicated to transforming data into meaningful visuals.
“I hope that when people see the work we do, they take pride in their accomplishments,” Zapata said. “It’s exciting to see a spreadsheet transform into something tangible—like a student’s name in a program or a poster in the hallway.”
Zapata is also the creative mind behind the district’s website, which has earned multiple recognitions from TSPRA (Texas School Public Relations Association) alongside other design awards. One moment that stands out in his time at Flour Bluff was being named District Support Staff of the Year in 2018.
While his role is highly technical, Zapata’s impact extends to the culture and brand identity of the district.
“I hope I contribute to something people can be proud of—whether it’s the designs or the website,” he said. “Keeping a consistent brand helps give Flour Bluff a look that matches its sense of pride and excellence.”
The tight-knit and family-oriented culture of Flour Bluff is something Zapata appreciates deeply. He credits his colleagues and campus community for motivating him to continue growing professionally.
“Everyone is kind of always counting on something to be made, and that pushes me to be a better version of myself,” he said.
Outside of work, Zapata enjoys playing guitar, making music, gaming, exploring design trends, and—when he can find time—taking naps.
Though he jokes that he’s usually quiet, he notes, “There are days where I can be loud, and people think I’m mean—but I’m not. I’m actually really nice.”
If he weren’t a graphic designer?
“I’d probably be doing stand-up comedy,” Zapata said, smiling.
He shares a key piece of advice for students and staff alike:
“Don’t specialize in just one thing. Learn as much as you can about everything you’re interested in—it’s all connected to what you really want to do.”
Zapata works hard behind the scenes ensureing that not only is everything astheticly pleasing, but that it is all ADA compliant for all visitors to our website. Photo by: Allison Weslie
And perhaps most important:
“Dream big. Don’t let others dictate what you can or can’t do.”
Among his favorite events at Flour Bluff are the employee service awards and the annual convocation at the beginning of the school year—times when the district’s camaraderie and appreciation for its staff shine brightest.
Whether he’s fine-tuning the district’s brand, building a website, or designing recognition materials for students and staff, Hector Zapata’s creativity and dedication help make Flour Bluff ISD a place that looks as strong as it feels.
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