Winter 2023 - CISD Magazine

200 S. Denton Tap Road, Coppell, TX 75019 214-496-6000 www.coppellisd.com SOCIAL MEDIA facebook.com/coppellisd twitter.com/coppellisd instagram.com/coppell_isd/ coppellisd.com/youtube The Winter 2023 issue of Coppell ISD Our Story magazine is a production of the CISD Communications and Community Engagement Department.

MANAGING EDITOR Amanda Simpson EDITORIAL ASSISTANCE Angela Brown and Sara McCullough LAYOUT AND DESIGN Naveen Boppana COVER PHOTO BY Mike Gutt STUDENT CONTRIBUTOR Dilan Patel PHOTO CONTRIBUTORS Jim O’Neill; CISD Students, Staff and Families; CISD Communications and Community Engagement Department ADVERTISING Association Revenue Partners Tim Waddill twaddill@associationrevenuepartners.com PRINTING TnJ’s Printing 16523 Addison Rd Addison, TX 75001 SUBMIT ARTICLE IDEAS To submit article ideas for future issues of this magazine email communications@coppellisd.com

Table of CONTENTS 13 CTE DECA Program Prepares Students for Business Career Success

16 Inaugural CISD Student iLead Program Provides Leadership Opportunities for Juniors

22

26

Back to the Beginning: Alumni Teachers Build Future Generations by Revisiting the Past

CISD Unsung Heroes Making a Difference

FEATURES

DEPARTMENTS/EXTRAS

12 Student Feature Buzzing with Pride: 2022 Region 10 Spanish Spelling Bee Winner Emiliano Noyola

4 5 6 8

24 Educator Feature 2021-2022 Secondary Teacher of the Year Anthony Hufford Embraces Working Together Philosophy to Empower Learners 25 Educator Feature Champion for Students: 2021-2022 Elementary Teacher of the Year Natalie Cuccia

On the Cover: Ashley Yang, first grade student at Lakeside Elementary, and her dad Jung Yang.

Letter from the Superintendent Did You Know?

I CISD Because Coppell ISD Launches Community Based Accountability System Data Dashboard 10 CISD Announces 31 National Merit Semifinalists for 2022-2023 11 Building Upstanders: CISD Partners with Dallas Holocaust and Human Rights Museum 14 Coppell ISD Students Achieve at the Highest Levels in Fine Arts 15 CISD Honor Choir Brings Together Elementary and Middle School Singers in Harmony 18 Education Foundation Give for Grants Campaign Awards $90,000+ in Funds to Teachers and Students 19 CISD Female Student Athletes Sign with Top Universities 20 How ‘Bout Them Cowboys and Cowgirls? Celebrating CISD Athletic Accomplishments 28 CISD Trustees Call Bond Election for May 2023 30 Understanding the 2022-2023 Budget & Tax Rate 31 Coppell ISD 2023-2024 Calendar

Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA): www.CoppellISD.com/ADA CISD Child Find: Coppell ISD is obligated to identify and evaluate individuals from birth through 21 years of age who may have a suspected disability that results in a need for special education services. This includes concerns related to physical development, vision, hearing, speech/communication, social-emotional, learning disabilities, Autism and delays in overall development, including daily living skills. Please call Intervention Services for Child Find concerns at 214-496-6955.

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Letter from the

SUPERINTENDENT Dr. Brad Hunt Dear Coppell ISD Family, Our theme for the 2022-2023 school year is “Working Together.” There is a reason that these are the first two words of our mission statement: “Working Together, we are committed to creating profound learning experiences for each child, while nurturing meaningful relationships to positively impact our world.”

We cannot achieve anything else in our mission without first working together as parents, teachers, staff, students and community. Only then can we do what we do best at CISD, which is to create profound learning experiences for each child. I have always believed that it is the meaningful relationships for which CISD is known for and is what makes us stand out as a school district that allows us to positively impact our world.

This school year we are working together to focus on the programs and facilities necessary for CISD’s future. The CISD 2023 Bond Committee, which consists of parents, community members, students and staff, has been hard at work synthesizing the efforts of our prior Facilities Planning Committee and Visioning Committee in order to make recommendations to our Board of Trustees for a possible bond election in May 2023. You can learn more about the bond journey in this magazine and at www.coppellisd.com/bond.

As you read the stories in this magazine, I hope you are reminded of why you chose and love CISD, because it is truly an amazing school district. I make it a priority to visit at least one campus a day and to interact with our students and teachers as much as I can. Seeing our CISD stories helps remind me of my “why,” which is our exceptional teachers, our amazing students and our wonderful families who work together to impact the lives of the children we serve.

I am blessed to have spent the majority of my 30 plus education career with CISD and to lead this district that I call home. I thank you for choosing CISD and for your support of our district family.

Sincerely,

Superintendent Coppell ISD

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Winter 2023

DIDYOU YOUKNOW?

23 SQUARE

MILES

TOTAL

STUDENTS

Coppell ISD spans 23 square miles and includes the communities of Coppell, Dallas (Cypress Waters), Lewisville, North Irving and Valley Ranch.

13,420

HIGH SCHOOL

GRADUATION RATE

56.0% Live in Coppell 35.0% Live in Irving Live in Dallas 3.3% (Cypress Waters) 2.4% Live in Lewisville Transfers 3.3% Inter-District (Employee children not in CISD)

99%

WERE OFFERED

$23.5 MILLION IN SCHOLARSHIPS

27.6%

31

27.8%

for 2022-2023

TEACHERSEXPERIENCE Beginners 1-5 Years 6-10 Years 11-20 Years 20+ Years

53.6%

Teachers with Bachelors + Masters Degree

SENIORS IN THE CLASS OF 2022

2021-22

4.9%

NATIONAL MERIT SEMIFINALISTS

24.5% 15.2%

2.7%

Teachers with Bachelors + Masters + Doctorate Degree

ATHLETICS

2,283 High School and Middle School students participated in Athletics during the 2021-2022 school year.

FINE ARTS 4,202 High School and 3,171 Middle School students participated in Fine Arts during the 2021-2022 school year.

2022 ACCOUNTABILITY RATING The State Accountability Rating measures what students are learning in each grade and whether or not they are ready for the next grade. It also shows how well schools prepare their students for success after high school.

97%

A

CISD Overall Score

CISD Grade

93%

95%

100%

School Progress

Student Achievement

Closing The Gaps

COPPELL ISD WAS RANKED #4 IN NORTH TEXAS

Based on the latest available data from the College Board and TEA Winter 2023

COPPELL ISD OUR STORY

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In Coppell ISD, our parents are our partners as we work together to serve and educate our children. Here are some reasons why our parents CISD.

I

““

CISDBecause... “

” “

I heart CISD for the amazing teachers and excellent staff! It is because of them that my kids want to go to school every day.

I heart CISD because of its sincere investment in all children, regardless of background or ability.

— Amanda Davis, Parent

Austin Elementary Coppell Middle School East

“

— Sujana Ramesh, Parent Cottonwood Creek Elementary

“

I heart CISD because it is very diverse and inclusive, and values everyone’s contributions.

— Kelly Mindrup, Parent

Town Center Elementary New Tech High @ Coppell

I heart CISD because the teachers care about my kids like they are their own.

“I heart CISD because my kids love their teachers and look forward to school. As a family, we are heard and feel at home.”

— Jocelyn Painatt, Parent

Coppell High School New Tech High @ Coppell

Cottonwood Creek Elementary Coppell High School Ninth Grade Campus

“

””

— Anu Partap, Parent

I heart CISD because here my children and I feel like big fish in a small pond where our voices are heard and there is accessibility district wide.

”

— Ashley Padilla, Parent

Wilson Elementary Coppell High School

www.iH ear t CISD.com 6

COPPELL ISD OUR STORY

Winter 2023

”

“

I HEART CISD BECAUSE WE ARE EMPOWERING OUR KIDS FOR THE FUTURE

— Leah Tressler, Parent Austin Elementary

I HEART CISD BECAUSE THE

TEACHERS

TAKE THE TIME

TO REALLY GET TO KNOW MY CHILDREN

— Carly Waters, Parent Town Center Elementary

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Coppell ISD Launches

COMMUNIT Y BASED ACCOUNTABILIT Y SYSTEM Data Dashboard

Coppell ISD released its first Community Based Accountability (CBAS) online dashboard and “CBAS At A Glance” brochure in September 2022.

The CBAS dashboard includes data from the 2020-2021 and 2021-2022 school years focusing on three pillars — Student Learning and Progress, Professional Learning and Quality Staff, and Safety and Well-Being. For the 2022-2023 school year, CISD will focus on these three pillars along with the Engaged and Well-Rounded Students pillar and the Fiscal and Operational Systems pillar. In the 2023-2024 school year, CISD will focus on all seven pillars, adding the Student Readiness pillar and Community Engagement and Partnership pillar.

Student Learning and Progress Students are our top priority and we want to ensure we are meeting their learning and progress needs.

Professional Learning and Quality Staff In order to educate all students to the highest academic standards, we need to have quality staff and make certain that they have the professional learning necessary to deliver great teaching.

Safety and Well-Being In order for CISD to accomplish our mission, we need to take care of the safety and well-being of our students and staff.

Students (Grades 3-5)

87.9% Teacher Retention Rate

Almost Always

51% Frequently

38%

HOW OFTEN DO STAFF FEEL ENGAGED IN THEIR WORK

Sometimes

10%

Once in a While Almost Never

0%

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COPPELL ISD OUR STORY

Winter 2023

1%

70%

Decrease 1% point from Fall 2021

90%

Increased 2% points from Fall 2021

40%

Students (Grades 6-12)

Self Management How well students manage their emotions, thoughts and behaviors in different situations

Emotion Regulation How well students regulate their emotions

Grit

How well students are able to persevere through setbacks to Increased 3% points achieve important from Fall 2021 long-term goals

80%

Remained the same from Fall 2021

70%

Decreased 1% point from Fall 2021

50%

Increased 3% points from Fall 2021

“CBAS allows Coppell ISD to share, through a holistic view with all of our stakeholders, that our district is producing future-ready learners and leaders. CBAS matters, because it means our community, which includes our staff, our students and their families, our businesses, and our community members, holds the district accountable.”

— Dr. Brad Hunt, Superintendent Wilson Elementary Principal Cooper Hilton said, “Our CBAS work is for the direct benefit of our CISD community and families. It is based on our community values and what we believe success looks like as a district.”

The Texas Education Agency rates schools and districts based on results from the STAAR (State of Texas Assessments of Academic Readiness) tests. CISD has received an “A” from the state’s ratings each year they have come out. According to Dr. Hunt, the state’s standardized tests do not completely measure learning and growth in CISD schools.

“

“While we are proud of our ‘A’ rating, we don’t believe it gives a complete picture of our district, our students, or our schools, because of its high reliance on the STAAR test,” Dr. Hunt said “Our innovative CISD staff are partnering with our students and families to create learning experiences that defy the ability of a standardized test to measure the growth. As we like to say, ‘You can’t test that.”

This fall, in conjunction with the release of the CBAS data dashboard, CISD has brought together a group of students, parents and community members, teachers and staff to form a CBAS

Advisory Group. This group will help shape how CBAS data is measured and shared with the district community.

CISD also is a member of the Texas Public Accountability Consortium (TPAC), a group of Texas school districts working to build on the success of community based accountability systems already in use in districts across the state by developing next-generation measures and assessments that would enable wider use of such systems.

Learn more at

www.CoppellISD.com/CBAS

CISD PRODUCES STUDENTS WHO ARE WELL ROUNDED, BY OFFERING STUDENTS A VARIETY OF AVENUES TO EXPLORE THEIR ACADEMIC AND CO-CURRICULAR INTERESTS.

”

— CISD Parent

“My teachers gave me the opportunity to apply my learning to real-world problems, ensuring that I not only did well on tests, but that I also understood how their lesson concepts could be applied to the real world.”

— Anekah Kelley

“

— CISD Parent

”

“

Knowledge is power and I believe CISD powers its students with the knowledge required for the practical world. CISD is diverse and really invests in each and every student. This is evident in the quality of the teachers and staff that truly care for their students. CISD does not compromise on quality of learning and lives up to their mission statement of nurturing relationships and impacting the world positively.

2022 New Tech High @ Coppell Valedictorian 2022 National Merit Finalist Attending SMU to Study Biophysics

I LOVE CISD BECAUSE MY

KIDS ARE

BOTH UNIQUE AND SPECIAL. CISD TEACHES

TO THE INDIVIDUAL

NEEDS OF EACH CHILD.

— CISD Parent

Winter 2023

COPPELL ISD OUR STORY

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CISD Announces

31

NATIONAL MERIT SEMIFINALISTS for 2022-2023

Thirty-one Coppell High School seniors have been selected as 2022-2023 National Merit Scholarship Semifinalists by the National Merit Scholarship Corporation. Selection is based on the students’ scores on the 2021 Preliminary SAT/National Merit Scholarship Qualifying Test. National Merit Semifinalists represent less than one percent of U.S. high school seniors.

CISD’s 2022-2023 National Merit Semifinalists are CHS seniors: Amrina Albab, Isabelle Beach, Siri Boinapalli, Emily Chang, Joshua David, Velizar Dimitrov, Vivek Gadicherla, Shrayes Gunna, Ethan Horng, Suchit Ineni, Parthiv Javangula, Shreya Jupelly, Josphin Kallery, Dhruv Kamtam, Amav Khambete, Ji Wang Lee, Jennifer Li, William Li, Anjana Mahadevan, Rajeshwari Marella, Spandan Mukherjee, Vansh Nanda, Shrithan Oruganti, Roma Patel, Arman Pathan, Akshara Sankar, Yadushan Thillainathan, Umang Vinayaka, Claire Wang, Amanda Zhang and Ashley Zhang.

I

CISDBecause...

“It is an environment where students are inspired and encouraged to grow as learners and as individuals.”

— Suchit Ineni

“Everyone wants you to succeed, and everyone is cheering you on for your accomplishments.”

— Isabelle Beach

“...of the extreme diversity amongst its students and faculty, and the promotion of inclusivity and thought.

There is always a focus on ensuring that everyone feels welcome and confident in themselves, and it has helped me widen my experiences far beyond what I would have made on my own.”

— Dhruv Kamtam

“Through my years within the district, I’ve recognized that everyone, no matter their background, has a space to be heard and seen. The value that CISD puts on making student’s feel included is substantial.”

— Shrayes Gunna

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Winter 2023

BUILDING UPSTANDERS: CISD Partners with Dallas Holocaust and Human Rights Museum Since the fall of 2021, Coppell ISD has partnered with the Dallas Holocaust and Human Rights Museum as part of the museum’s Upstander project. Through this initiative, CISD has been able to build upon its character education and curriculum programs by encouraging students to become Upstanders in their community.

According to the museum, Upstanders are individuals who stand up for other people and their rights; combat injustice,

Working with the Dallas Holocaust and Human Rights Museum also allows for curriculum collaborations. Under the direction of Social Studies Teacher Danae Boyd, New Tech High @ Coppell students Blake Conoley and Benjamin Hall were chosen as Honorees, and Alisha Oberoi was selected for Honorable Mention recognition as part of the museum’s Every Child Has a Name Legacy Project.

The project remembers and honors the

timeline of Belina Cohen’s life with eight different colors that represent eight major events in her life.”

Hall said, “I chose Jehuda Majer Halle because of his similar last name to me and because of his story. He had to go to one of the worst concentration camps in history. He was separated from his family before he was even old enough to make choices for himself. He was beaten, abused, and treated like dirt just because he wanted to worship

“We always want to be innovators in educating our kids. This partnership aligns with our core values and

allows our kids to have the critical thinking skills and empathy and social capital to make a difference in the world.”

— Dr. Brad Hunt, Superintendent inequality or unfairness; and see something wrong and work to make it right.

Field trips to the museum, both in person and virtual, as well as educational collaborations that align with the state’s and CISD’s curriculum standards, are among the opportunities the collaboration with the Dallas Holocaust and Human Rights Museum provides CISD.

1.5 million Jewish children who were murdered during the Holocaust, through research and creative thought. Conoley knitted a scarf, Hall wrote a song and Oberoi submitted a drawing and diary entry for this project.

Conoley said, “I chose Belina Cohen because I was inspired by her unique story and her bravery through everything she went through. This scarf, which took me about a week and a half, is a

his religion, so I wanted to honor his struggles through this project and make sure that he is never forgotten. Because once we forget, then those people who committed those crimes, win.”

Oberoi said, “I chose Rutka Laskier because she seemed to have an extremely unique life. After doing some research, I found out that she held a diary. She talked about whatever remnants she had of what her life was before. I realized that our personalities were quite similar, and it was neat to see one of the thoughts I’ve had in general in writing, especially in the diary of a girl who lived years before me.”

Dr. Hunt said, “The work and recognition of these learners is an example of the transformative, profound and powerful experiences our partnership with the museum creates.”

Learn more about this partnership.

From left: New Tech High @ Coppell Social Studies Teacher Danae Boyd, New Tech students Ben Hall and Blake Conoley, and Holocaust Survivor Bert Romberg.

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BUZZING WITH PRIDE: 2022 Region 10 Spanish Spelling Bee Winner

Asking CMS North 6th grader Emiliano Noyola to pick his favorite teacher is like asking a mother to choose which of her children she loves the most.

“All of my teachers have been really great with me and have made a difference in my life,” Noyola said.

EMILIANO NOYOLA

Now in middle school, Noyola’s two favorite subjects are social studies and lunch alongside Spanish II Honors, where he is earning high school credit as a 6th grader, which all DLI participants can do at North.

He is following in the successful CISD footsteps of his siblings, including, his brother, Max, who is in 8th grade at North and his sister, Hanna, who is a junior at Coppell High School.

“CISD is like a family and a community,” he said. “It’s a great place to be.”

This difference is paying off, as during the 2021-2022 school year Noyola was a CISD Kid Superintendent, the star in Aladdin at Wilson Elementary, the winner of the Region 10 Spanish Spelling Bee and the kick-off speaker at CISD’s 2022 Convocation.

A member of the Dual Language Immersion program, Noyola was the runner-up in the 2021 CISD Spanish Spelling Bee. He set a goal for himself to win the district Spanish Spelling Bee in 2022. He ended up winning the 2022 district competition and then went on to win the Region 10 competition.

“It felt like a dream, because my goal was to win at district, and I didn’t think I would win the Region,” he said.

That same evening, he played the lead role in the production of Aladdin at Wilson Elementary.

Success for Noyola is defined by setting goals and working hard to achieve those goals.

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Winter 2023

Noyola says he loves CISD for the opportunities the school district has given him such as Robotics and Math Olympiad.

“I heart CISD because the teachers are amazing and the amount of memories you get to form as a student here is just unbelievable.”

As he continues his CISD student path, Noyola is inspired by two very important people in his life.

“I am inspired by my parents,” he said.

“They are the hardest working people I know and are my heroes.”

C TE DECA Program Prepares Students for

BUSINESS CAREER SUCCESS communicate them effectively and show off their creativity.

school year, the first district president from CHS.

DECA is defined as a unit of measurement involving the number 10.

For high schools across the world, DECA is the name of the international business organization for emerging leaders and entrepreneurs.

Whether it be a role play event, where students must take a 100 question exam and take part in a given scenario, or a written event where students can write up to 20 pages of required material and present, DECA is a Career and Technical Education or CTE program that allows its members to understand how the real world works and gain the soft skills needed to be successful in any career field.

DECA students can compete at the district, state and international level,

During the 2021-2022 school year, DECA in CISD made district history

After district comes the state competition, which was held in Houston. Little did DECA students know that the February 2022 winter storm may jeopardize their ability to leave Coppell. With perseverance and improving weather on their side, CISD DECA was cleared to drive to Houston and compete. CISD DECA broke previous records set with more than 47 competitors qualifying for internationals and even more state finalists.

By Dilan Patel CHS 12th grade student and intern for the CISD Communications and Community Engagement Department.

ICDC, otherwise known as the

“DECA has been an amazing organization to be a part of, and I’ve made so many connections and have grown confidence in myself. I am so thankful that Coppell ISD allows students to take initiative in career based learning.”

— Aryan Shah, CHS Senior while engaging with students from around the world. Through specialization options in the clusters of marketing, hospitality and tourism, finance, and business management and administration, DECA allows students to gain experience with workplace scenarios and environments, using 21st century skills and entrepreneurship to come up with solutions quickly,

with the highest number of students competing at all levels of competition compared to previous years. The journey to the internationals in Atlanta started with the district competition, where a large number of CISD DECA students advanced to the state level. Not only do students compete, but they also have an opportunity to lead regions or states of DECA, with senior Dilan Patel becoming District 11 President for the 2022-2023

International Career Development Conference, was held in Atlanta in April.

Along with the competition, students participated in social events, tourist attractions, leadership conferences and more. At this highest level of competition, DECA came back home with four finalists, two of which were top 10 in their events, respectively, and multiple students recognized for their top scores.

THE FOLLOWING STUDENTS PLACED AT THE 2022 DECA INTERNATIONAL COMPETITION: New Tech High @ Coppell: Soha Alam and Anthika Gunaselan were Project Management Career Development Finalists.

Coppell High School: Isha Rahi was an Apparel and Accessories Marketing Top 10 Finalist; Kavin Sampath (‘22) was a Personal Financial Literacy Top 10 Finalist; Rahul Balaji (‘22) was a Sports and Entertainment Marketing Team Decision Making Top Exam Score; Saniya Koppikar and Anveshi Goyal were Travel and Tourism Team Decision Making Top Exam Score; Sabah Uddin was a Principles in Hospitality and Tourism Top Exam Score.

Winter 2023

COPPELL ISD OUR STORY

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COPPEL ISD

STUDENTS ACHIEVE at the Highest Levels in Fine Arts CISD is jumping for joy and singing the praises of our fine art students, who continue to achieve at the highest levels in their field.

The Coppell High School Varsity Cheer Team recently competed at the 2023 National Cheerleaders Association national competition and won 2nd place in their category. The team also won first place for the best use of tumbling.

CISD is in the top 10 in the state for the number of student performers — choir, band and instrumentalists (orchestra) — who made state for the 2022-2023 school year, as designated by the Texas Music Educators Association or TMEA. CISD had nine band members, seven choir students and one instrumentalist/ orchestra student make state. CISD

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COPPELL ISD OUR STORY

had the highest number of singers who made the 2023 Texas Music Educators Association All-State Choir from our area.

These results are a byproduct of the incredible teachers we have in our district working with these diligent student-performers dating back to Kindergarten.

In the area of drama, 16 CISD high school theatre students qualified for the International Thespian Festival after competing at the Texas Thespian Festival in Grapevine. These students will compete at the International Thespian Festival in Indiana in June.

The Coppell Band marched successfully through competition season in the fall of 2022, collecting multiple accolades Winter 2023

along their way. Their accolades include: UIL Region 31 Straight Super Ratings, UIL Area B 6A Area Champions, 11th Place Finalist at the Bands of Americas San Antonio Super Regional before “creshendowing” in an 8th place finish at the UIL 6A State Marching Contest.

This is the second consecutive year the Coppell Band has finished in the top 10 at state.

In the spring of 2022, CHS9 and CHS students brought home 11 state medals and one Gold Seal at the Visual Arts Scholastic Event (VASE) competition.

There were more than 31,000 entries submitted to the regional level of the VASE competition in Texas. Only 150 artworks were selected for the Gold Seal, the highest level of competition.

CISD Honor Choir Brings Together

ELEMENTARY AND MIDDLE SCHOOL

SINGERS IN HARMONY Once a year for an entire school day, the auditorium at Coppell High School is full of 5th graders from all CISD elementary schools and 6th graders from all district middle schools for rehearsal for the annual CISD Honor Choir Concert.

Now in its 11th year, this event allows the CISD community to come together to showcase the talent of students on a large stage.

Fifteen singers are chosen from each elementary school and 25 are selected from each middle school through an audition process that results in about 230 members of the Honor Choir.

“The concert brings our community together in a truly district-wide event,” said Wilson Elementary Music Teacher Eric Hanson. “Honor Choir highlights the arts and celebrates our elementary and middle school programs.”

According to Hanson, Honor Choir allows 5th and 6th graders to obtain audition

experience since they are not eligible for UIL (University Interscholastic League) competition until 7th grade.

the singers get a taste of what to expect if they continue in choir in middle school and beyond.

Advika Anil, who is in 6th grade at CMS West, is in her second year of the CHS Honor Choir.

CMS West Choir Director Allison Hartzell said, “Beyond a recruitment tool for choir in middle school, the Honor Choir experience helps foster a love for music in a fun environment.”

“Singing together with kids from other schools makes Honor Choir fun,” Anil said. “You feel like part of a community and can express yourself.”

Jace Frank, a 5th grader at Town Center Elementary, is continuing a family tradition by being part of the Honor Choir.

“My sister did it,” Frank said. “My favorite part of Honor Choir is being on stage with my friends and with the kids from all of the other schools.”

For the 2022 concert, technician Colton Blake was brought in to work with the singers to help them learn and refine technique. Hanson says this is to help

Winter 2023

When asked their favorite song of the concert, all of the singers responded with “Walk Through Life.”

“It is a fun song with lots of hype,” said Saiprathik Prakash, who is in 5th grade at Richard J. Lee Elementary. “Being a part of the Honor Choir makes me want to be in choir in middle school.”

CHS Choir Director Bona Coogle said, “This is an opportunity for the singers to engage with music teachers from all of the schools and hear the amazing music we can make together.”

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Inaugural CISD Student iLead Program Provides

LEADERSHIP OPPORTUNITIES FOR JUNIORS

By Dilan Patel CHS 12th grade student and intern for the CISD Communications and Community Engagement Department.

Several Coppell ISD juniors participated in the district’s inaugural Student iLead Leadership program in the spring of 2022. Mentored by CISD Superintendent Dr. Brad Hunt, CISD Trustee Leigh Walker and Chief Communications Officer Angela Brown, CISD juniors took part in the inaugural iLead Leadership Program.

The select group of 53 were handpicked from more than 175 applicants to

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COPPELL ISD OUR STORY

foster the leadership needed to create change within our community and learn the skills necessary for success in any industry.

From January to May, juniors from CHS and New Tech learned about leadership in the community, being business leaders, the importance of service and what it means to be an upstander.

The program consisted of five full-day informative, hands-on sessions and ended with a graduation recognizing their accomplishments and growth.

community leaders: Kevin Nevels, a member of the Coppell City Council and a local business owner and CISD Trustees Nichole Bentley and Leigh Walker. Each with their own critical lessons, they collectively emphasized the importance of balance that must exist in order to fulfill one’s duties in both personal and public life. Students learned that leadership is something that is constantly evolving and growing rather than stagnant. In order to keep growing as a leader, you have to continue to challenge yourself.

The first session revolved around community leadership, where students had conversations with a panel of three

The second session allowed students to interview business leaders across the community, including representatives

Winter 2023

from the United States-India Chamber of Commerce and Northstar Builders Group. Student iLeaders experienced lessons about having perspective and creating the ideal workplace culture and environment. The iLead learners left ready to create an impact wherever their career may take them. With the new gained knowledge from the local business leaders, the student iLead program visited Coppell’s Old Town to provide valuable information on how to increase consumer traffic to become a thriving spot in Coppell. Interviewing a majority of the businesses in the area and touring the new Coppell Arts Center, students came and gave their feedback at the meeting at Life Safety Park.

Student iLeaders started off their third session creating hygiene care packages for Metrocrest Services to help underprivileged members of our community. Led by students, the program created 500 care packages filled with daily hygienic essentials. Later that day, students had the opportunity to speak with Metrocrest Services’ CEO Tracy Eubanks, learning key principles like “Give over Get,” “People over Profit,” and to be involved in things other than your interests. To finish out the day, Jason Dyke from Carson’s Village shared his story and the importance of helping others in times of need.

During the fourth session, student iLeaders had the opportunity to go to the Dallas Holocaust and Human Rights Museum in Downtown Dallas. The in-depth explanation of the tragedies that occurred was balanced by how people responded to those tragedies, emphasizing the Museum’s theme of being “Upstanders” — people who stand up for other people and their rights, combating injustice, working to make it right. The many valuable lessons were centered around perspective, standing up for others and learning from the past.

At the final session before graduation, students took part in mock job and scholarship interviews, preparing them to be successful post graduation. As students reflected on everything they learned, they came out of their comfort zone, graduating the program as completely new and confident leaders ready to take on the world.

The success of the iLead program has led to its second year in the spring 2023, with the graduates who are now seniors available to mentor the CISD Student iLead Class of 2023.

A special thank you for all the staff, volunteers, guest speakers, and partners who made the inaugural iLead Leadership Program possible. Most importantly, thank you to the students who are going to positively impact our community and lead the change across the world.

Priyanka Bhutani, Dilan Patel and Elizabeth Walker The 2022 CISD Student iLead Magazine Article Subcommittee

Winter 2023

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17

Education Foundation Give for Grants Campaign Awards

$90,000+ IN FUNDS TO TEACHERS AND STUDENTS The Coppell ISD Education Foundation has awarded more than $90,000 in grants to 32 teachers to benefit CISD schools and students through the group’s annual Give for Grants campaign.

For the 2022-2023 school year, 34 grant requests were filled through the fundraising efforts of the Coppell ISD Education Foundation and the local community.

Grants awarded include funds for Science, Technology, Engineering, Arts, and Math (STEAM) programs, outdoor learning opportunities, enhancing the high school band library, books for specific educational programming, technology upgrades and small group instruction programming.

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Among the funded grants are: u School garden enhancements and adding drums to the Music Department at Cottonwood Creek Elementary u A calming space for students at Denton Creek Elementary u The Learning with Biotechnology program and VEX Robotics at CHS and CHS9 u “Reels on Wheels” for film students at New Tech High @ Coppell u STEAM lab enhancements for Richard J. Lee Elementary and Mockingbird Elementary u The Drums Alive Program and Town Center Elementary u The Conversation Starter Program at Pinkerton Elementary u Esports Coaching as part of the Coding Program at CMS East Winter 2023

The primary purpose of the Coppell ISD Education Foundation is to financially support the Coppell Independent School District above what is provided by district’s operating budget. The foundation bridges the gap between the CISD budget and teacher and school needs.

The Coppell ISD Education Foundation is made up of community volunteers who work to serve and support CISD as a district parent and teacher support organization. In addition to the Give for Grants campaign, the Foundation hosts a banquet to support the top 5 percent of high school learners, hosts an annual Run to Fund event to support teacher grants and hosts enrichment camps for students. To learn more, visit www.coppellisdef.org

WHO RUNS THE

COLLEGIATE WORLD

? COWGIRLS

CISD Female Student Athletes Sign with Top Universities These CISD Cowgirls will “run” the world, “shoot” for the stars, “ace” their way and “drive” their future success at top national and state universities. These young women have devoted countless hours to training and perfecting their craft to be among only 7 percent of student athletes in the country who are able to compete at the college level.

Waverly Hassman — Track & Field Northeastern University “I chose Northeastern because of its stellar academics, its rising track program and its proximity to Boston. My favorite memory of running track at CHS is winning the regional championship my sophomore year. I would like to thank my coaches, basketball and track, for allowing me to do both sports. I would like to thank my cross country coaches for believing in me before I believed in myself. I would like to thank my family, in particular my parents, for driving me everywhere and supporting me. I am excited to begin the next chapter of my life. Go Huskies!” — Waverly Hassman Megan Judd — Track & Field Dartmouth University “I chose Dartmouth, because it is a school that will challenge me both academically and athletically, and it has the most amazing community. I am most excited about a complete change of weather. My favorite memory of running track at Coppell High School is qualifying for the Texas relays last year. It was so much fun to travel as a team. I would like to thank my coaches for always supporting me throughout my high school career.” — Megan Judd

Sky Schuller — Track & Field Stanford University

Jules LaMendola — Basketball Indiana University

“I chose Stanford because of the amazing coaches, people and campus, as well as the great academic and athletic opportunities it offers. I am so excited to get the chance to continue my track career at the next level and see where it takes me. My favorite memories at Coppell High School are breaking school records in high jump at the district meet last year. I would like to thank my mom, dad and siblings for being my biggest supporters during my many years of competing. I also want to thank all my coaches. Without these amazing people in my life, I would not have the incredible opportunity to compete for Stanford.” — Sky Schuller

“My favorite memory of playing for Coppell basketball is competing with my teammates in my junior year and going all the way to the Regional Quarter Finals for the first time in 10 years. I would like to thank the coaching staff at Coppell High School for being a great support system in my high school career and helping me to grow into the player I am today. I would like to thank my brother and sister and, of course, my parents, none of this would be possible without their support, both big and small. Go Hoosiers!”

— Jules LaMendola Kirstin Angosta — Golf TCU

Lindsay Patton — Tennis Baylor University “I chose Baylor, because it offers a lot of opportunities for me both as a player and as a student. I would like to thank God, my family and my friends for sticking by my side throughout my high school playing experience and tennis career overall. I would not be able to do anything without them. Sic ‘em Bears!”

— Lindsay Patton

Winter 2023

“My favorite memory from CHS is winning as a team and individually at the Castle Hills tournament and the drive back to campus with the team after. I would like to thank my parents, brother, grandparents, coaches and friends for helping me along the way. I chose TCU because of the awesome coaches and strong team atmosphere.” — Kirstin Angosta

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HOW ‘BOUT THEM

Celebrating CISD Athletic Accomplishments

“Cowboy Fight Never Dies,” is the mantra that drives CISD student-athletes and coaches. Their hard work and spirit is paying off in recent accomplishments that instill pride in our community.

BOY’S CROSS COUNTRY TEAM PLACES 3RD AT STATE The Coppell Cowboys’ Cross Country team finished 3rd in the State UIL 6A Championship held Nov. 4 in Round Rock. Senior Andrew Mullen finished 7th at State and finished his high school cross country career with three consecutive State Championship appearances, two top 10 State 6A finishes, two top 10 Region 1-6A finishes and three top 10 District 6-6A finishes.

NEW COACH PROPELS VOLLEYBALL TO PLAYOFFS CHS alumna and new head volleyball coach Robyn Ross led her team beyond preseason expectations, as the team advanced to the playoffs.

COPPELL TENNIS FINISHES SEASON AS AREA CHAMPS AND RANKED NO. 15 IN THE STATE The Coppell Varsity Tennis Team ended its season as Area Champions and

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ranked no. 15 in the state. In Spring 2022, the CHS mixed doubles team of Vinay Patel and Lindsay Patton finished 3rd in the State Tennis Championship, which is the best mixed doubles finish at state in CISD history.

HOME PLAYOFF GAME CAPS OFF SUCCESSFUL FOOTBALL SEASON Under new head coach Antonio Wiley, the Cowboys only lost one game in 2022 and advanced to the playoffs, hosting a playoff game at home for the first time in years.

Winter 2023

GIRLS BASKETBALL FINISHES 2023 AS STATE SEMIFINALIST AFTER BACK-TO-BACK RECORD SEASONS The 2023 Girls’ Basketball season was the most successful in CISD history, with the Cowgirls finishing their season as State Semifinalists. In 2023, the Cowgirls were ranked no. 1 in the state for the first time in the program’s history. The Cowgirls ended the 2023 season as district champions, bi-district champions, area champions and regional champions before advancing to the State Tournament as Semifinalists

COWBOYS AND COWGIRLS? for the first time in program history. The team has had two consecutive 30-win seasons for the first time ever. In 2022, Coach Ryan Murphy was chosen as the 6-6A Coach of the Year, and the team had the most wins in school history. The Cowgirls ended the 2022 season as district champions, bi-district champions and area champions. The 2022 team advanced to the Region Quarterfinals for the first time in more than 20 years.

BOYS AND GIRLS SOCCER TEAMS ACHIEVE DISTRICT PLAYOFFS The Cowboys and Cowgirls soccer teams both advanced to the playoffs in the spring of 2022. The teams continue to play at the highest levels, as they hope to continue playoff runs this spring.

WRESTLING CONTINUES STATE BERTHS High School wrestlers continue to qualify and medal at the state championships.

SWIMMING AND DIVING TEAM SUCCESS The CHS Swim and Dive Team had the most successful season in program history, with nine individuals qualifying for state. The swimmers who qualified are Katie Jost — 200 Free; 500 Free, Annie Chang — 50 Free; Sean Li — 50 Free, 100 Breast, 200 Free Relay, 200 Medley Relay; Gabe Campos-Canelas — 200 IM, 200 Free Relay, 200 Medley Relay; Nathan Kim — 200 Free Relay, 200 Medley Relay; Jonathan Ting — 200 Free Relay, 200 Medley Relay; Amav Khambete — Alternate; William Li — Alternate; and Justin Chang — Alternate.

Winter 2023

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21

Back to the

BEGINNING ALUMNI TEACHERS BUILD FUTURE GENERATIONS

BY REVISITING THE PAST When Dr. Bianca Benitez graduated from Coppell High School in 1994, a career in the classroom was the last thing on her mind. Today, she says she’s never felt as strong a calling to anything else in her life.

that I learned from, and still learn from, knowing that maybe I can have that impact on the next generation of students who might also return to Coppell,” Dr. Benitez said.

“When you’re teaching and kids get that ‘ah-ha moment’, you’re like, ‘This is why I’m here — to help them make those connections,’” she said. “Their ability to see things from so many different perspectives and have that inquisitive mind all the time drives me.”

Recently, Dr. Benitez was chosen as the high school “Teacher on the Rise,” a monthly award sponsored by Market Street and Mrs. Baird’s Bread that honors North Texas educators for their contributions to education.

Her efforts to bolster her students’ futures are evident both in and out of the classroom. Students say she can often be found at sporting and community events or mentoring students in their college applications. The genuine relationships she fosters with students have earned her accolades, including the Claes Nobel Educator of Distinction by The National Society of High School Scholars (NSHSS) last school year.

After receiving a Doctorate of Chiropractic from Parker University, Dr. Benitez worked as a contract doctor in a nearby clinic, where she filled in as an instructor teaching interns. She fell in love with teaching instantly.

“I was like, ‘I have to do this,’” she said.

Dr. Benitez obtained her alternative educator certification and landed her first instructional role teaching freshman biology at Williams High School in the Plano Independent School District.

Eventually, she found herself drawn back to CISD, where she currently teaches AP Biology at CHS. She believes she would not be the teacher she is today without the learning environment she had as a student in CISD. “The idea of coming back and being able to give back to a district and community that was such an important part of my life — and still is — was a dream come true,” Dr. Benitez said.

As a former student, Dr. Benitez recalls taking social studies with Diane de Waal and English with Linda Moore and Kim Pearce. She remembers when CHS Principal Laura Springer was coaching P.E. and Superintendent Dr. Brad Hunt was a newly-hired special education teacher. Calling them her colleagues now is “surreal and special.”

“I find it really inspiring and powerful that I see people daily

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CHS senior Aman Singhal nominated Benitez for the recognition.

“She delivers her passion for her kids and class more than any teacher I’ve ever seen in my life, and you know it from the moment you walk into her room,” Singhal said.

The surprise award resulting from the heartfelt words of her student was a “defining moment” for Dr. Benitez.

“Any time an award comes from a student who goes out of their way to fill out whatever form or write whatever essay and has such incredible things to say about you, it just goes right to the heart,” she said.

JOSHUA CHANIN Class of 2012

AP US History Teacher at Coppell High School

“I graduated from New Tech High @ Coppell in 2012. I returned to Coppell ISD to teach because of the school district’s superior academic excellence in the classroom as well as Laura Springer’s student-first, FISH philosophy that is practiced every day at Coppell High School. I love working in a school district that is welcoming and supportive to all its employees!”

BRITTANY SCRUGGS Class of 2006 AP Human Geography Teacher at CHS9

Return as GREAT TEACHERS BAILEY ERNST Class of 2014

First Grade Teacher at Valley Ranch Elementary

“I decided to come back and work as a teacher in CISD because I had such a wonderful experience growing up in the Coppell Schools.

My teachers helped me grow my love and passion for learning.

Every day as a student I woke up excited and ready to go to school because of the positive atmosphere my teachers created. I feel my teachers made me feel welcomed and loved every day! I truly enjoyed CISD and feel they have shaped me into the teacher I am today. My goal as a teacher at CISD is that I am giving my students the same wonderful experience that I got as a child. I hope to create a love and passion for learning while creating a positive environment where all students feel loved and welcomed. I am so proud to work in the best district at the best elementary school, Valley Ranch Elementary!”

ANNMARIE VINCENZO Class of 2015

Kindergarten Teacher at Canyon Ranch Elementary

“To me, Coppell ISD is a district that shaped me and made me who I am today, and I am lucky and proud to say that it is a district that continues to mold me.

I truly believe that the most important pillar in CISD’s core beliefs is relationships - relationships between teachers, relationships between partners in our community, relationships among students, and relationships between educators and learners. As a child and teenager, I was lucky enough to have so many important teachers and people in my life that inspired me daily. I am the educator that stands here today because of the educators that helped me - many that are still working for CISD today. I wanted to come back to Coppell to have the same impact on my learners that my educators had on me. CISD will always be home to me and will always be the place that made me who I am.”

“I am a proud alumni.

To go from a student perspective to being a teacher has given me an insight on what students experience daily. I have a connection to the school spirit. Sharing the unique Coppell experience with my students is a bond I am glad to have.”

SABRINA KHAN Class of 2009

Instructional Coach at Austin Elementary

“I always knew I wanted to be an educator, and it seemed only fitting to return to Coppell ISD where I had so many positive experiences as a student. I’ve stayed because CISD values not only great teaching but also relationships. It’s been amazing to be able to learn from and work alongside educators who were once my teachers. Not everyone can say that their neighbor was also their high school principal and is now their superintendent.”

MACI PHILLIPS Class of 2014

Pre-Kindergarten Teacher at Lakeside Elementary

“I grew up attending CISD from Kindergarten at CCE to graduating from CHS. The stellar education I received and the deep relationships I built over the years with my teachers, drove me to become a teacher myself. I wanted to return to CISD to make an impact on students just like I received. It was a dream of mine to work in CISD and I am very proud to work in my hometown district and to give back to the school district who shaped me into the teacher I am today. I will forever always be a Coppell Cowboy!”

KRYSIA STEPHENS Class of 2010

English Teacher at Coppell Middle School North

“I attended Valley Ranch Elementary, Coppell Middle School East, and graduated from Coppell High School in 2010.

I returned to teach in CISD because of how much I valued the education I was given and the relationships that I built with my amazing educators and peers. My hope in becoming a teacher here in CISD is to someday be as impactful and inspiring as some of the teachers that I had growing up.”

Winter 2023

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23

2021-2022 Secondary Teacher of the Year

Anthony Hufford

New Tech High @ Coppell

EMBRACES WORKING TOGETHER PHILOSOPHY TO EMPOWER LEARNERS When Anthony Hufford entered his first teaching class at the University of North Texas, he had no idea education would turn into a career that would bring him endless joy.

“Being in Coppell ISD and teaching at New Tech High @ Coppell has really been rewarding in a way I can’t imagine anything else would be for me,” says Hufford, the CISD 2021-2022 Secondary Teacher of the Year.

One reason Hufford has been so fulfilled is the support and innovation of his colleagues at New Tech.

“Their desire to be open-minded, create a family, foster vulnerability and

growth, give back to our communities, and change the world has pushed me and inspired me every day since I first stepped foot on the campus to be a student teacher 10 years ago,” Hufford says. “I truly can’t imagine a better place to call home.”

In addition to teaching math, Hufford coleads the New Tech Learner Leadership Council, serves as the school’s learning management system expert and is a trainer for the New Tech Network, meaning he regularly consults for other schools across the United States.

“Empowering learners to change the world around them is what makes me love being a teacher, sponsor and

mentor,” Hufford says. “I love seeing learners discover the patterns and logic of life and build confidence through experiences I help create.”

As a project-based campus, New Tech teaches and assesses collaboration as one of its core learning outcomes.

Hufford strives to build confidence in all learners so they feel like they can truly contribute to the problems at hand, no matter how daunting they may seem at first.

“None of us can do our best work in isolation,” Hufford says. “We need the support of our friends and colleagues to really be our best.

Whether that’s to help us brainstorm ideas for lessons or it’s just for a shoulder to lean on in a rough time.”

Huffords adds, “We are unstoppable when we work together, from students, parents and community partners to support staff to classroom educators to campus and district administrators. This is when we can create amazing experiences for our learners and ourselves.”

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Winter 2023

CHAMPION FOR STUDENTS:

2021-2022 Elementary Teacher of the Year

Natalie Cuccia

Pinkerton Elementary

Being a champion for a child is what drives Pinkerton Elementary Special Education Teacher Natalie Cuccia, the CISD 2021-2022 Elementary Teacher of the Year.

“Fear gripped me on my first day of school,” Cuccia says. “I was only 5, but Perthes Disease had robbed me of my childhood. My full-leg brace inhibited me from doing all the things I loved to do.”

It was her kindergarten teacher, Ms. Johnston, who was Cuccia’s champion and made sharing about her disability an honor.

“At that moment, my life was transformed,” Cuccia says. “Deep inside me was a longing to impact another person’s life, just as she did for me.”

“It is with the same loving eyes that Ms. Johnston showed me, that I welcome every new student,” Cuccia continues. “I walk side by side with my learners through every rageful moment, aggressive word and act of desperation.

Looking past the behavior, I find the child.”

Cuccia says her students are successful, because everyone in her school embraces the ideology that every child has greatness.

“The support and strength at Pinkerton is unwavering,” she says. “Every day, I learn something from the interactions with our staff. There is a climate of open collaboration, acceptance, and a growth mindset.”

and full of rage. Throughout our time together, I saw so much growth in him.

With all the challenges facing educators these days, Cuccia says the love and support of educators must remain constant. Her classroom is about instilling hope and encouraging her learners to rise above their present struggles.

For Cuccia, there is no greater joy than when you have impacted a child’s life.

She believes schools are a sanctuary where children can learn and grow in an environment full of hope and openness.

“My kids have overcome insurmountable obstacles to lead successful and happy lives,” Cuccia says. “One boy, who was transferred to me in the first grade from a psychiatric hospital was suicidal

Winter 2023

This young man is now enlisted in the army and is giving back to our country.”

“If teachers allow time for self-reflection, take care of our emotional needs, rely on our team and always put the needs of the child first, all of this will enable us to be the champions that all of our kids deserve.”

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Spotlight on Relationships:

CISD UNSUNG HEROES MAKING A DIFFERENCE All CISD employees are committed to taking care of our students, including those who serve children outside of the classroom. CISD is spotlighting some of our unsung heroes who impact the lives of our children behind the scenes.

SARA CRUZ

Custodian at Town Center Elementary

Sara Cruz has served as the custodian for Town Center Elementary for 12 years and has worked in CISD for 25 years.

“I love it here and watching the students grow from kindergarten to 5th grade,” Cruz said.

“The learners at Town Center are so polite and sweet and are so happy to see me each day.”

Cruz added, “I love CISD, because everyone makes me feel like I am an important part of their community and family.”

CINDY McCLURE

Crossing Guard at Lakeside Elementary

Cindy McClure is known for putting the safety of the kids and families she serves first. She also is known for the goody bags she hands out on holidays such as Halloween, Christmas, Valentine’s Day and Easter.

“I want the kids to know that I care for them, and I am here for them,” she said. “We are like family.”

“I think it is important we recognize [being a crossing guard] is an important role and helps keep kids safe,” she said.

“Sometimes traffic gets pretty crazy and drivers aren’t always paying attention to the children who are walking to school. I would throw myself out there to protect a kid.”

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Winter 2023

REGINA WHITAKER Bus Driver

Regina Whitaker wants every one of her bus riders to feel loved, valued and special.

“My goal is to put a smile on their face,” said Whitaker, who has been a bus driver for CISD for six years and driving school buses for 16 years.

She believes that she has an opportunity in the mornings to help students start the day off on a good foot.

“Even if they had a rough morning at home, I can help turn that around so it is a good day at school,” she said. “I also can turn around a rough day at school by making the ride home as positive as possible. I will try to make it a good day.”

LILIAN CRUZ

Child Nutrition Manager at Denton Creek Elementary

Lilian Cruz has been working in the CISD Child Nutrition Department for 17 years, serving at Coppell High School, CMS East and, now, at Denton Creek Elementary.

“I love working with the kids and knowing that I play a big role in their lives,” Cruz said. “I receive them with a smile every day.”

Cruz says both her and the kids’ favorite meal from the cafeteria is pizza. She also enjoys farm fresh Fridays and serving students fruit and vegetables grown in the Denton Creek school garden. Cruz wants the community to know that school cafeterias provide a variety of healthy food and vegetarian options for students.

“I love CISD because here, you are treated like a family,” she said.

WAYNE NEAL Plumber

When Wayne Neal started working for CISD 40 years ago in 1982, when the district had two campuses, the number one movie was “E.T.”, the top song was “Eye of the Tiger,” and among the top TV Shows was “The Greatest American Hero.” Neal has been one of CISD’s greatest and unsung heroes for 40 years.

Neal is a homegrown talent, having graduated from Coppell High School in 1984, which means he started working for CISD while he was in high school and has remained here ever since. From opening new campuses to repairs at all hours during recent ice storms, Neal has dedicated his career to ensure CISD schools are ready to educate students.

“CISD is and always will be my home,” he said. “Making sure that the kids and teachers have a place where they can learn comfortably has been my life’s work, and I am proud to be a part of this district.”

Winter 2023

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CISD Trustees Call

BOND ELECTION FOR MAY 2023

Coppell ISD has a long history of engaging parents, students, teachers and staff, and the community at large in its decision-making processes, including the Strategic Design initiative in 2017, the Long-Range Facilities Committee in 2019-2020 and the Visioning Committee in 2020-2022.

In August 2023, the CISD Board of Trustees created a Bond Steering Committee, consisting of parents, students, staff members and community volunteers, for bond planning work. Trustees charged the Bond Committee to analyze, prioritize and recommend options and funding requirements through 2028 for facilities and other capital projects.

The two co-chairs of the Bond Steering Committee — community member Jim Walker and CHS student Dilan Patel — shared the Bond Steering Committee’s recommendations to the Board of Trustees on Jan. 23.

Consultant Cindy Powell with Cooperative Strategies and CISD Executive Leadership recommended separating these recommendations into two parts. Trustees held a Board Workshop on the Bond on Feb. 6, and on Feb. 13, the CISD Board of Trustees called a Bond Election to take place on May 6, 2023.

WHAT IS A BOND?

Texas independent school districts issue bonds to pay for capital expenditures. School district bonds are similar to a home mortgage in that the borrower repays the lender, in this case, investors, over time and in accordance to the terms of the bond sale. Districts repay the bonds through revenue generated from property taxes collected by the district.

HOW CAN BOND DOLLARS BE USED? School districts may issue bonds to pay for the construction, acquisition and renovations of school buildings; acquisition of sites for school buildings; purchasing equipment for school buildings, buying buses and other capital expenses.

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HISTORY OF CISD BONDS 1985

$25 Million

Built 3 elementary schools (Mockingbird, Wilson and Lakeside), added classroom space at Old Lee, Intermediate School, Middle School and High School, improvements at various campuses, upgrade of Pinkerton, and acquisition of elementary sites.

1994

$41.47 Million

Provided for CHS expansion, CMS West expansion and remodel, elementary school expansion, student support and instructional support facilities, technology improvements, air conditioning of elementary gyms and other maintenance projects.

2006

$50 Million

Phase One: Renovations and repairs of facilities, technology updates, library materials and facilities, and playground equipment over the next five years.

Phase Two: Maintenance note conversion to finalize the purchase of CISD’s 122 acres of North Lake (Cypress Waters) property.

2013

$79.5 Million

Provided for construction of CHS9, CMS West and Canyon Ranch Elementary, expansion and improvements at CMS East, CMS North and CHS, security kiosks for all 18 schools, new bathrooms, repairs and updates at the nine footprint elementary schools, 200+ cameras for enhanced security across the district and technology infrastructure and equipment (including 1:1 technology devices for all students)

Phase One: Build Austin Elementary and purchased land for school sites.

Phase Two & Three: Construction of Coppell High School and equipped for additional elementary schools.

1990

$29.5 Million

Built 4 elementary schools (Cottonwood Creek, Denton Creek, Town Center and Valley Ranch), 1 middle school (CMS North), added classroom space at CHS, expansion of auxiliary service facilities, improvements at Old Lee, Austin and CMS West; acquisition of 2 additional elementary sites, classroom technology.

1999

$49.875 Million

Purchased land in North Lake (Cypress Waters), district-wide remodeling and renovation projects, security and safety upgrades, technology improvements, and other maintenance projects.

2009

$55.9 Million

Provided for construction of Richard J. Lee Elementary, technology infrastructure and equipment, campus safety and security, campus learning upgrades and renovations, band, library and classroom instructional materials and improvements, CHS expansion and renovations, campus maintenance projects and mechanical renovations.

2016

$249 Million

Winter 2023

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COPPELL INDEPENDENT SCHOOL DISTRICT

Understanding 2022-2023

Budget & Tax Rate Total Operating

Property Tax Rate

$1.2173

est Low ate R Tax 1993 e sinc

FOR EVERY $100 OF THE PROPERTY VALUE

M&O Tax Rate $0.9867

Debt Services Combined Tax Rate Tax Rate $1.2173 $0.2306

+

=

NOTE: The State takes 26.1% of the CISD Budget ($46.5 million) in Recapture to support the general fund, including charter schools.

Actual CISD Budget

$178,498,490 - $46,575,229 = $131,923,261 Last year Coppell ISD had a lower tax rate ($1.292) than the majority of the school districts in DFW, including Allen ($1.4068), Arlington ($1.3617), Denton ($1.362), Fort Worth ($1.3432), Lewisville ($1.3081), Plano ($1.3207), Prosper ($1.4603) and Richardson ($1.3909).

$1.2173

$1.2920

$1.3100

$1.3309

$1.4605

$1.4777

The Debt Service budget is used to service (pay off) the debt incurred from bonds, which is used for construction and/or renovations of school district’s buildings/facilities and for the purchase of school buses and technology.

$1.4927

$178,498,490 $178 Million

The Maintenance & Operations budget funds staff salaries, learning materials, utility bills, fuel, insurance, transportation and cleaning supplies.

Coppell ISD Tax Rate History

BUDGET

2017 2018 2019 2020 2021 2022 2023

WHERE DOES THE OPERATING BUDGET COME FROM? State Aid

Property Taxes

7.96%

90.58%

CISD has a tax base comprised of 56.6% commercial and business personal property and 43.4% residential property.

Other Local Aid

0.91%

Federal Aid

0.56%

WHAT DOES THE OPERATING BUDGET PAY FOR? Recapture

26.1%

$46,575,229

The State takes 26.1% of the CISD Budget in Recapture to support the general fund, including charter schools.

“Charter schools are publicly funded through taxation and operated by privately owned management companies. Charter schools are often established, operated, and maintained by for-profit organizations, and are not necessarily held to the same standards as traditional public schools.”

Charlotte, NC: IAP. p. 59. ISBN 978-1-68123-296-6.

COPPELL ISD OUR STORY

Instruction $85,112,796

5.3%

- Tell, Shawgi (1 April 2016). Charter School Report Card.

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47.7%

Instructional Leadership $9,546,433

Winter 2023

9.3% Student Support Services $16,653,645

2.6% Administration $4,543,620

8.4% Non-Student Support Services $14,950,753

0.6% Other

$1,116,014

COPPELLISD JULY

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July 4_________ Independence Day Holiday

OCTOBER Sun Mon

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Aug. 7-11_____ Professional Development Aug. 14_______ Staff Workday Aug. 15_______ First Day of School First Semester Begins First Grading Period Begins

2023 Wed

Thu

Fri

Sat

NOVEMBER Sun Mon

Tue 7

1

2

3

4

5

6

7

8

9

10

11

12

13

14

5

6

18

19

20

21

22

23

25

26

27

28

29

30

Sept. 4_______ Labor Day Holiday

2023 Fri

17 24

Wed

Thu

Sat

1

2

3

4

8

9

10

DECEMBER

2023

Sun Mon

Tue

Wed

Thu

11

3

4

5

6

7

Fri

Sat

1

2

8

9

15

16

17

18

19

20

21

12

13

14

15

16

17

18

10

11

12

13

14

15

16

22

23

24

25

26

27

28

19

20

21

22

23

24

25

17

18

19

20

21

22

23

29

30

31

26

27

28

29

30

24

25

26

27

28

29

30

31 Oct. 5________ Early Release Day First Grading Period Ends Oct. 6________ Professional Development/ Student Holiday/Staff Workday Oct. 9________ District Holiday Oct. 10_______ Second Grading Period Begins

JANUARY Sun Mon

2024

Tue

Wed

Thu

Fri

Sat

Nov. 20-21____ Flex Professional Development/ Student Holiday Nov. 22-24____ Thanksgiving Break

FEBRUARY

2024

Sun Mon

Tue

Wed

4

5

6

7

Thu

Fri

Sat

1

2

3

8

9

Dec. 8________ Early Release Dec. 15_______ Early Release First Semester Ends Second Grading Period Ends Dec. 18-29____ Winter Break

MARCH

2024

Sun Mon

Tue

Wed

Thu

10

3

4

5

6

7

Fri

Sat

1

2

8

9

1

2

3

4

5

6

7

8

9

10

11

12

13

14

15

16

17

18

19

20

11

12

13

14

15

16

17

10

11

12

12

14

15

16

21

22

23

24

25

26

27

18

19

20

21

22

23

24

17

18

19

20

21

22

23

28

29

30

31

25

26

27

28

29

24

25

26

27

28

29

30

31 Jan. 1________ Flex Professional Development Jan. 2________ Staff Workday Jan. 3________ Second Semester Begins Third Grading Period Begins Jan. 15_______ MLK Day Holiday

APRIL Sun Mon

2024 Tue

Wed

Thu

Fri

Sat

Feb. 16_______ Professional Development/ Student Holiday/Staff Workday Feb. 19_______ Bad Weather Day

MAY

2024

Sun Mon

Tue

6

7

Wed

Thu

Fri

Sat

1

2

3

4

8

9

10

11

Mar. 8________ Early Release Day Third Grading Period Ends Mar. 11-15____ Spring Break Mar. 18_______ Fourth Grading Period Begins

JUNE

2024

Sun Mon

Tue

Wed

Thu

Fri

2

3

4

5

6

7

Sat

1

2

3

4

5

6

7

8

9

10

11

12

13

5

1

14

15

16

17

18

19

20

12

13

14

15

16

17

18

9

10

11

12

13

14

15

21

22

23

24

25

26

27

19

20

21

22

23

24

25

16

17

18

19

20

21

22

28

29

30

26

27

28

29

30

31

23

24

25

26

27

28

29

8

30 Apr. 12_______ Bad Weather Day Apr. 15_______ Flex Professional Development/ Student Holiday

www.CoppellISD.com

May 24_______ Early Release Last Day of School Second Semester Ends Fourth Grading Period Ends May 27_______ Memorial Day Holiday

Grading Periods (GP) First Semester (81 Days) GP1: Aug. 15 — Oct. 5 GP2: Oct. 10 — Dec. 15

Second Semester (93 Days) GP3: Jan. 3 — Mar. 8 GP4: Mar. 18 — May 24 Revised 12/13/2021

Winter 2023

COPPELL ISD OUR STORY

31

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