CISD Our Story Magazine - Spring 2024

SUPERINTENDENT Letter from the Dr. Brad Hunt

Dear Coppell ISD Family,

Our theme for the 2024-2025 school year is #CISDMissionPossible, and I truly believe that when we focus on our mission, anything and everything is possible for our district community.

We have much to be proud of this school year, including our Strategic Planning efforts, progress on the Bond 2023 projects, the continued focus on our Community-Based Accountability System or CBAS, the launch of our new elementary STEAM initiative and much more.

Through it all, it is the partnership with our parents, our teachers and staff, our students and our community that drives the success of our mission, which is “Working together, we are committed to creating profound learning experiences for each child, while nurturing meaningful relationships to positively impact our world.”

As you read in this magazine about our commitment to academic achievement and to our mission, I hope that you understand the crucial role we all play in educating and serving our students.

Thank you for your support of Coppell ISD. Sincerely, Superintendent Coppell ISD

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.

ACADEMIC

EMPOWERING STUDENT EXCELLENCE THROUGH ACADEMIC ACHIEVEMENT,

CISD Boasts Record 49 National Merit Semifinalists

Coppell ISD produced a district recordbreaking 49 National Merit Semifinalists for the 2023-2024 school year, with 48 hailing from Coppell High School and one from New Tech High @ Coppell. This remarkable achievement places Coppell High School as the high school with the highest number of National Merit Semifinalists in the state of Texas and as one of the top high schools in the nation in terms of the number of semifinalists, according to the 2024 National Merit Semifinalist Scholarship Program.

The 48 National Merit Semifinalists from Coppell High School are 4.9 percent of the senior class of 968 students, which means that CHS has almost five times the number of National Merit Semifinalists than the national average.

Of these 49 National Merit Semifinalists, 46 were selected as National Merit Finalists.

This achievement is a reflection of these students’ hard work, dedication and the exceptional education they receive from our outstanding teachers starting in elementary school, then middle and high school, as well as the support of their incredible parents and families, and the entire Coppell ISD community.

— Dr. Brad Hunt CISD Superintendent

Most in Texas

Coppell High School, with 48 semifinalists, had the highest number in the State of Texas.

Started in Public School

45 of the 49 National Merit Semifinalists started their education in a public elementary school.

49

48

National Merit Semifinalists

Coppell ISD had a record 49 National Merit Semifinalists in 2023-2024, with 48 hailing from CHS and one from NTH@C.

National Merit Finalists

46

45

46 of the 49 National Merit Semifinalists have been designated as finalists.

40

Started in CISD Elementary

40 of the 49 National Merit Semifinalists started their education in a CISD elementary school.

A SPECIAL BREW: Transitional Pathways Students’ Cowboy Coffee Cafe at CHS

Percolating with enthusiasm and grounded in Coppell ISD’s core value of redefining success, in February 2024, Coppell High School launched a student-run coffee shop within the CHS Commons, transforming a vacant concession stand. Guided by

their dedicated teachers, learners in the General Employability/Transitional Pathways Special Education program are now the baristas, skillfully crafting and selling coffee and tea to CHS students, teachers, and staff. In CISD, we value each individual’s contribution because success can be different for everyone.

Photo by CHS Senior Sri Achanta.

PERFECT:

CISD is proud to celebrate the eight Coppell High School students who recently achieved the highest possible composite score on a single SAT or ACT exam. Each year, millions of U.S. students take the SAT and ACT, and less than 1% achieve the top scores.

These well-rounded CHS students also participate in programs such as fine arts, athletics, Career and Technical Education (CTE) programs, as well as Advanced Placement (AP), International Baccalaureate (IB) and Dual Credit courses.

Eight CISD Students Achieve Perfect Score on ACT or SAT

Senior Prerith Arunkumar

1600 SAT

Senior Aromi Han 36 ACT

Junior Raj Pradyun

Reddy Gaddam 36 ACT

Senior Ryan Booker

36 ACT

Senior Dhroov Pathare

1600 SAT 36 ACT

Junior Andrew Shi

1600 SAT

Senior Sua Cho

36 ACT

Senior Varun Ravilla

1600 SAT

Less than 1% of US Students earn this Achievement

compassion, independence and resilience is just as crucial as setting the stage for reading and math. That’s why our Balanced Learning ® approach combines character development with play and academics to give children a strong, well-rounded foundation for learning and life

We know how big their little hearts can be. for Elementary Age Students

FULL STEAM AHEAD: CISD’s STEAM Program for All K-5th Graders

New for the 2023-2024 school year, Coppell ISD is offering a STEAM (Science, Technology, Engineering, Arts and Math) curriculum — including coding, robotics, and the engineering design process — at all of its elementary schools. This instructional design promotes higher-level thinking and creativity for students in Kindergarten to 5th grade. Each of the district’s 11 elementary schools has a full-time STEAM educator and the STEAM program is being provided to all Kindergarten to 5th grade students at all elementary schools as part of the weekly “specials” class rotation, in addition to music, art, and physical education.

DISTRICT CHARTS COURSE FOR FUTURE WITH CISD 2030 STRATEGIC PLAN

The Coppell ISD 2030 Strategic Plan sets forth ambitious goals and initiatives aimed at shaping the future of education in CISD for the next five years. The plan builds upon the district’s 2017 Strategic Design work that resulted in the district’s core values, vision and mission statement, as well as the CISD longrange facilities planning and visioning work, and the seven Community-Based Accountability System (CBAS) pillars.

At the heart of the 2030 Strategic Plan lies a steadfast commitment to student success and holistic development. With a focus on maximizing teacher excellence and ensuring high-quality instruction, CISD aims to cater to the dynamic needs of its student body. Through initiatives like Professional Learning Communities (PLCs) and transformative Tier I instruction, educators are empowered to drive positive student outcomes and foster a culture of continuous improvement.

Central to the strategic plan is the emphasis on preparing students for the challenges of tomorrow. By raising awareness about career pathway opportunities and implementing comprehensive benchmarks for academic and social and emotional readiness, CISD endeavors to equip

students with the skills and selfawareness necessary for their future success.

The plan also underscores the importance of recruiting, retaining, and developing high-quality teachers and staff. By leveraging the district’s cultural strengths and prioritizing educator input in professional development, CISD seeks to cultivate a dedicated workforce committed to the education and care of students.

Community engagement and partnerships also featured prominently in the Strategic Plan. Through strategic communication strategies and collaborative efforts with stakeholders, CISD aims to foster enthusiasm for educational opportunities and leverage partnerships that benefit students and the community as a whole.

In nurturing engaged, well-rounded students, the district is focused on creating inclusive environments that promote a sense of belonging for all learners. By revamping learning spaces and emphasizing empathy and perspective-taking, CISD endeavors to cultivate a culture where every student feels valued and supported.

Additionally, the plan addresses fiscal and operational considerations, aiming to optimize investment and ensure long-term financial sustainability. By expanding benefit offerings and implementing efficient property management strategies, CISD aims to remain a steady force that is wellequipped to deal with the challenges of today and tomorrow.

Essential to the CISD 2030 Strategic Plan is the significance placed on safety and well-being. Through comprehensive safety protocols and robust mental health initiatives, CISD is committed to fostering a nurturing environment where every individual feels supported and valued.

I want to thank the parents, students, teachers and staff, and community members who volunteered their time and perspective as part of the Strategic Planning process. Our Strategic Planning Committee and Strategic Plan Action Team volunteers showcase our collective commitment to making CISD the best district it can be, both now and into the future.

— Dr. Brad Hunt CISD Superintendent

FROM ROOTS TO RECOGNITION:

Doris Patrick Digs Deep in Valley Ranch Elementary’s Garden, Earns Statewide Volunteer Award

In the garden outside of Valley Ranch Elementary School, Irving resident and volunteer Doris Patrick can be found tending to an array of crops. Every week, Patrick volunteers her time to look after the VRE garden and educate students about the importance of understanding where food comes from and where it goes after it’s harvested.

On Aug. 16, 2023, Patrick received the 2023 Heroes for Children Award, an honor that recognizes 15 volunteers statewide who provide outstanding services to communities and their students. Valley Ranch Elementary firstgrade teacher Sandra Braden nominated her for this award.

“She’s by far the strongest volunteer we have at Valley Ranch Elementary,” Braden said. “She has a love for volunteering, and I wanted her to be recognized. I’m so glad she got chosen.”

As a former teacher herself, Patrick understands how to work with children in a way that’s engaging and beneficial to them. Her experience has helped her create a unique bond with the students and her efforts inspire them to enjoy

taking part in an activity that benefits beyond themselves.

When receiving the Heroes for Children award, Patrick was pleasantly surprised. She finds joy in what she does and thinks of it as an opportunity for her to grow rather than a service she provides.

“I find it enjoyable teaching the kids,” Patrick said. “I like to see them outside working in the dirt, so I benefit that way.”

Patrick works with VRE students to ensure the garden plants stay healthy and receive what they need to thrive. She teaches them how to monitor plant growth, plant seedlings and instills a love for horticulture in them.

“She does a lot for our garden,” Valley Ranch Elementary school fourth grader Shivansh Malu said. “She’s generous and kind-hearted. We learn a lot from her.”

Patrick hopes that students will share what they learn at the VRE gardens with their family and inspire them to try planting something in their own backyard.

“I hope they won’t be afraid to try gardening at home,” Patrick said. “If not immediately, then maybe in the future.”

Patrick has loved gardening for as long as she can remember; she watched her parents and grandparents take care of plants, so she naturally followed their lead. After the COVID-19 pandemic, Patrick used volunteering at the gardens as a way to safely partake in outdoor activities, and for the past two years, she has continued to do that.

“It’s a way for me to do something beneficial,” Patrick said. “If I can help, I’d like to help.”

The food that is grown in the garden is used in a multitude of ways. What can be used in the cafeteria is served to students for lunch and learners can bear the fruits of their efforts. When the food is not used at school, it is donated to the Metrocrest Food Pantry.

“I’ve gardened all my life,” Patrick said. “There’s nothing better than fresh food!”

Story by Coppell High School Senior Sameeha Syed

MTSS HELPS ENSURE

ALL CISD STUDENTS EXPERIENCE GROWTH MULTI-TIERED SYSTEMS OF SUPPORT

“Multi-Tiered Systems of Support is more than an academic framework. It’s a commitment to ensuring that every student experiences success and personal growth on their educational journey.”

— Mary Kennington Director of Accountability, Assessment and MTSS

Coppell ISD uses a proactive framework of Multi-Tiered Systems of Support (MTSS), alongside Professional Learning Communities (PLCs), to work toward a common goal that CISD students experience at least one year’s worth of growth each school year.

According to Mary Kennington, the district is committed to engaging in collaborative and transformative instruction that fosters social, emotional, and academic growth for all students. MTSS is designed to help schools meet each student’s needs. It focuses on the whole child.

Educators work collaboratively, rather than in isolation, taking collective responsibility for student learning as part of a Professional Learning Community, which revolves around four fundamental questions:

l What do we want our students to learn?

l How do we know if each student has learned it?

l What interventions are in place if students haven’t learned it?

l What extensions are available for those students who already grasp the content?

Delving into the three tiers of instruction that define MTSS, Kennington said that all students receive Tier 1 instruction, which includes a variety of supports, scaffolds, and differentiated best practices in the classroom.

Based on a variety of assessments, for students who need strategic intervention to achieve benchmarks, Tier 2 interventions provide more frequent and smaller group instruction, providing targeted interventions for those students who need additional time and support, in addition to Tier 1 instruction.

Tier 3 steps in for those students who continue to need increased time and intensity of instruction.

“In CISD, we believe Professional Learning Communities and Multi-Tiered Systems of Support go hand-in-hand in supporting students, much like the classic pairing of coffee and donuts — you can’t have one without the other.”

— Mary Kennington

Director

of Accountability, Assessment and MTSS

“We can’t necessarily guarantee that we will solve every student’s learning hurdle, but we can guarantee that we will see the problem and give every student the attention and support they need to overcome it.”

— Dr. Greg Axelson Principal, Coppell Middle School North

“At Canyon Ranch Elementary, we believe that all kids are our kids and that transformational learning begins when people feel loved, valued and connected.”

— Ashley Minton Principal, Canyon Ranch Elementary

Watch how Canyon Ranch Elementary lives out #AllMeansAll through PLCs to support transformational learning. Every single staff member is utilized in an intentional way to support MTSS.

COPPELL ISD’S STUDENTS AND STAFF LEAD THE WAY IN LEADERSHIP EXCELLENCE AND OPPORTUNITY

Coppell ISD is setting the bar high for leadership development for students and staff and is receiving state and national recognition for our work. From four elementary schools receiving Texas Elementary Principal and Supervisor Association (TEPSA) Student Leadership Awards to a principal serving as TEPSA’s President to another principal receiving a prestigious TEPSA award to an elementary school achieving the Leader in Me Lighthouse School designation to our Student iLead program for juniors, leadership is shining bright at CISD.

LAKESIDE ELEMENTARY

Lakeside Elementary received a TEPSA Student Leadership Award for its students’ commitment to helping everyone at the school feel included and supported and for helping to meet the needs of others in the community. Lakeside’s student service commitment includes serving as spirit leaders at spirit rallies, helping with Special Friends Day, welcoming learners and families to Kindergarten Round-Up and writing words of advice to graduating CISD seniors who were former Lakeside Longhorns.

RICHARD J. LEE ELEMENTARY

Lee Elementary received a TEPSA Student Leadership Award because the learners in grades K-5, who are on the “LEEdership council” exemplify strong character, integrity and an eagerness to help. These LEEders decorated coffee sleeves with positive and encouraging messages for teachers. During “The Great Kindness Challenge” week, LEEdership Council members helped design posters for Coppell Middle School West and walked over to deliver these posters during their recess times. They also hosted a canned food drive for Sack Summer Hunger to support Metrocrest Services. Additionally, they encouraged learners to create Memorial Day Cards and placed them on gravesites at the DFW National Cemetery.

WILSON ELEMENTARY AND PRINCIPAL COOPER HILTON

Wilson Elementary received a TEPSA Student Leadership Award because of how the school’s Student Council fostered school spirit and a positive campus culture by helping run the annual school carnival, Wilson Fest, and selling Valograms for learners to exchange with each other. To support the Coppell community, they hosted a fundraiser called “Turkify a Teacher” that allowed the school to buy a Coppell family presents through the organization “Make a Child Smile.” They also hosted several drives to support community organizations and the school.

Wilson Elementary’s Principal, Cooper Hilton, served as President-Elect of TEPSA’s Executive Committee for 2023-2024 and will serve as President for the 2024-2025 school year. With years of experience in various leadership positions, Principal Hilton’s appointment signifies a significant milestone in his journey of service to education. His leadership will undoubtedly steer TEPSA toward continued success in advocating for Texas educators and students.

VALLEY RANCH ELEMENTARY: TEPSA AND LEADER IN ME LIGHTHOUSE SCHOOL

Valley Ranch Elementary received a TEPSA Student Leadership Award due to activities that make the school a “Leader in Me” campus, as well as service and other projects. As a Leader in Me Campus, Valley Ranch Elementary school culture is ingrained in Stephen Covey’s 7 Habits of Happy Kids. In addition, Valley Ranch student leaders organized a food drive for the Lions Club, served as school ambassadors for tours of Valley Ranch Elementary, and had a booth at the Coppell Earthfest, where they gave out free sunflower seeds in newspaper pots for people to plant at home.

In February 2024, Valley Ranch was certified as a Leader in Me Lighthouse School by FranklinCovey Education. This is a distinction that only 700 schools in the world, 62 schools in Texas, and eight schools in North Texas have achieved. Valley Ranch has seen amazing results from implementing the Leader in Me model at the school, as its students are stepping up as leaders in the classroom and beyond. Lighthouse Schools excel in three areas: teaching leadership principles, creating a leadership culture and aligning academics to leadership skills.

COTTONWOOD CREEK PRINCIPAL DR. ANDRA PENNY: A LEGACY OF LEADERSHIP

Cottonwood Creek Principal Dr. Andra Penny’s receipt of the TEPSA Sandi Borden Tribute to Texas Children Award is a testament of her unwavering dedication to public education. As principal of Cottonwood Creek Elementary for nearly three decades, Dr. Penny has left an indelible mark on countless students and educators. Her exemplary leadership has not only shaped the lives of those within her school but has also inspired future generations of educational leaders.

ILEAD: EMPOWERING FUTURE LEADERS

Coppell ISD’s iLead program offers eleventh grade students a unique opportunity to develop and refine their leadership skills. Through seminars and workshops facilitated by CISD staff and local partners, participants gain insights into personal leadership, advocacy, and community service. By investing in the next generation of leaders, CISD continues to nurture a culture of excellence and innovation.

Powering Progress:

YOURBOND DOLLAR$ at work

With the community’s approval of a $321 million bond package in May 2023, Coppell ISD is paving the way for sweeping enhancements across its campuses, prioritizing infrastructure enhancements, safety and security measures, and facilities upgrades to enrich the educational landscape for our students now and in the future.

KEY INITIATIVES INCLUDE: Comprehensive campus improvements | Construction of a state-of-the-art fine arts rehearsal building at CHS | Safety and security upgrades | Renovations to career-focused spaces and athletic facilities | Advancements in technology and STEM education

PLAYGROUNDS

Among the headline projects are the installation of new playgrounds and shade structures at all elementary schools district-wide, except for Canyon Ranch Elementary, which opened in 2019. Designed with inclusivity in mind, these vibrant playgrounds boast ADAcompliant equipment and upgraded features, including new equipment, shade structures, concrete bases and enhanced accessibility.

These new playgrounds will be completed in fall 2024, aside from Valley Ranch Elementary, whose playground will be part of the school’s renovation and completed in 2025.

Regular updates and project milestones are shared through the district’s Informed Newsletter and at www.coppellisd.com/bond.

TECHNOLOGY

Students from Kindergarten to eleventh grade received new iPads in spring 2024. These new iPads are equipped with advanced functionalities to augment their educational journey. With enhanced performance and tailored accessories like keyboard cases and Apple-compatible Metapens, these devices continue a tradition of seamless learning experiences within CISD classrooms.

SAFETY & SECURITY | STEM | CONDITION IMPROVEMENTS

Safety and security enhancements that have been completed include the installation of integrated camera surveillance and card access solutions at Coppell High School, New Tech High @ Coppell, CMS East, CMS North, CMS West and the CISD Vonita White Administration Building.

Middle schoolers are set to benefit from revamped Multipurpose Labs and Makerspaces for STEM, fostering hands-on learning and innovation. With renovations scheduled for CMS East and CMS West, students can look forward to dynamic spaces that ignite creativity and collaboration, empowering them to explore the realms of science, technology, engineering and math.

Beginning in spring 2024 are the conditioning improvements and interior refreshes at Mockingbird and Wilson Elementary schools, which are receiving new door hardware and locks, new furniture, weatherproofing of building exteriors, interior improvements that include flooring, LED lighting and more.

Pinkerton Elementary is slated to receive a much-needed roof replacement in the summer of 2024.

OTHER PROJECTS STARTING THIS SPRING: Valley Ranch Elementary Additions and Renovations, Tennis Center Additions and Renovations and Construction of the New Fine Arts Rehearsal Building

My home is CISD because the community that I’ve built here has been amazing and supportive, and the opportunities that I’ve gotten in Coppell have really helped me grow and become better as a person.

— Faith Amoako Junior Coppell High School

My home is CISD because it’s not just a school district, it’s a nurturing community where both my children and I feel supported and loved. CISD provides incredible professional growth opportunities for their employees and is dedicated to fostering children’s talents and supporting their individual needs. CISD makes us feel valued, important and seen.

My home is CISD because I have the perfect opportunity to work with so many amazing and ambitious people — both students and educators. I get to grow personally and professionally in the best way possible.

— William Harrington, AP Math Teacher / Student Council Sponsor Coppell High School

— Monica Champagne Parent / Digital Learning Coach CHS9

My home is CISD because it is an amazing district that provides the right fit for everyone, no matter their learning style.

— Dhruv Chitiprolu Junior New Tech High @ Coppell

GROUP CLASS MEMBERSHIP

Join our chess classes for kids, filled with fun and learning! Our experienced teachers will guide your child, whether they are just starting out or already familiar with the game. Take advantage of our 10-day trial, allowing your child to attend one class per week and participate in one of our club nights before making a commitment!

Premiere Membership includes:

Multiple classes per week

Attendance to Open Play Nights

25% of Scholastic Tournaments

Unlimited Weekly Swiss Tournaments

ChessKid Gold Membership

Classes Available at all locations! (Irving, Plano, Frisco, Carrolton)

Support Coppell with the Coppell Cowboys Debit Card. Only available at Mobility Credit Union.