Most Spirited Mascot: Draco the Dragon from The John Cooper School

THE WOODLANDS, TX -- Meet Class of 2026 student Lucas Frome, also known as Draco the Dragon, who has captured the hearts of The John Cooper School community with his role as our mascot. Most recently, Lucas won the title of the Most Spirited Mascot at the National Cheerleader’s Association Camp!

Lucas’s commitment to his school community and his role as Draco the Dragon not only reflects his spirited nature, but also hints at the values of camaraderie and positivity fostered at The John Cooper School. He says, “Being the mascot allows me to do just this. Furthermore, with the amazing community at Cooper, it makes spreading joy that much more fun!”

Whether it is through his involvement in Active Minds, a student organization dedicated to the wellbeing of Cooper’s student body, to serving as our beloved mascot, Lucas embodies the spirit of both Draco the Dragon and The John Cooper School.
The school mascot did not officially arrive until the 1990-91 school year. Dr. Marina Ballantyne, founder of The John Cooper School, suggested the dragon after seeing the dragon sea serpent in Lake Woodlands South Shore Park and thought it would be a great symbol for The School.

“The dragon shows how our school is different- it’s all about creativity and learning in different ways, and I think the dragon shows that,” remarked Cooper alum and parent Dr. Arti Allam.

The dragon serves as a reminder of The School’s founding roots as part of Mr. George Mitchell’s initial master plan of The Woodlands. The John Cooper School was built for the sole purpose of creating a school for the community.

As Lucas reflected on his experience at The John Cooper School spanning back to pre-kindergarten, he stated, “Cooper has helped me grow into the person I am today by helping me every step of the way.”

The John Cooper School remains steadfast in its mission to provide a challenging education in a caring environment to a diverse group of select students, enabling them to become critical and creative thinkers, effective communicators, responsible citizens and leaders, and lifelong learners.

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