Serving those who serve our students.
Checking & Savings Loans, Vehicle, Mortgage, Personal Certificates of Deposit Online Banking Mobile Banking 2500 Perryton Pkwy Pampa, Texas 79066-0920 Phone: (806) 665-0057 Fax: (806) 665-0533
www.ptfcu-tx.com Federally Insured by NCUA
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Superintendent’s Message They say time flies when you are having fun! One glance at the activities going on at the campuses will paint a picture of engaged and busy students, staff, and of course---families. Each season brings a sense of hope and renewal, but it also brings about busy schedules getting to school, to work, to a practice, or a performance of some kind. There is homework to do, laundry to clean, meals to prepare, bills to pay, places to be, and so on... for us all. Our days are a series of tasks, to-do lists, events, and full of expectations that others have for us or those that we put on ourselves. Moving at the speed of life is hard in today’s world, but we urge you to pause for just a moment and soak up all of the blessings we have in our schools, in our community, in our churches, and in our relationships. The Pampa ISD is proud that we have continued to build meaningful and lasting relationships with our students, staff, parents, churches, community and business members, and all other stakeholders who know and understand that preparing our young people for their future is our mission! Pampa ISD is a school of Purpose, Passion, and Pride! We live and work each day with intentionality to reach our goals and ensure success for ALL. Our parents, community members, students, and staff have one thing in common. We have a deep desire to achieve excellence in everything we do. I feel blessed to live and work in the Pampa community and school district. What makes Pampa so special is the core values of the people, the relationships forged through good times and bad, and the relentless focus on the future for the next generation of Harvesters. Our mission, as a school district, is to produce learners who are compassionate, competent, confident, and future-ready! In order to do that , we must create a safe environment where our students and staff engage in high quality, challenging, and meaningful learning experiences that empower and prepare us all for the future. Our purposeful attention to educating the whole child is evident in every decision we make and in every action we take. As you #Explore this publication, you will notice how the people personify the purpose, passion, and pride that is Pampa ISD. Our community is united in the work of teaching, learning, creating and innovating, so that we are all making a difference not only in each other’s lives, but in the lives of those around us. Let us know how we can continue to improve what we do and how we do it. Together, we can continue to build a system that appreciates and invests in the WHOLE child. Tanya Larkin, Pampa ISD Superintendent
Explore Pampa ISD A Publication of the Pampa Independent School District
1233 North Hobart Pampa, Texas 79065 806-669-4700 www.pampaisd.net
Staff and Contributors Tanya Larkin
PISD Superintendent
Nathan Maxwell
Associate Superintendent
Pam Mitchell
Thank You!
We appreciate the advertisers who made this Explore Magazine possible. Additional Contributors
Marissa Biven
Kelsi Hargrove
Keana Daughtry
Greg Poynor, Athletic Director PHS Athletic Department
Mona Hennessey and Sandar Godwin,
Wilson Elementary Principal
Carrie Williams
Director, Pampa Learning Center
Anita Russell
Director of Finance
Director of Federal Programs & Professional Development
Suzanne Pingel
HR/Family/Community Relations
Director of Instructional Technology & Assessment
Graphic Designer
Heather Wallace-Weinette
Jana Williamson
Robert S. Forester
The Pampa Independent School District complies with all federal and state rules and regulations and does not discriminate on the basis of race, color, national origin, gender, or disability. This holds true for all students who are interested in participating in educational programs and/or extracurricular school activities. Inquiries regarding compliance and/or grievance procedures may be directed to the school district’s Title IX officer and/or Section 504/ADA coordinator.
Dist. Social Worker/Safe & Drug Free Coord.
Molly Brinkley
PHS Fine Arts Department
Mark Murray,
CTE Coordinator
Ashley Oglesby Melody Youree,
PHS Principal’s Secretary & Cheer Sponsor
PHS SPED Teachers
Michelle Jensen,
PHS English Teacher
PHS English Student Editors Sheylah Arreola Rylee Parks Paige Richards
Austin Samulowitz, PHS Teacher
Alicia Ortner,
Travis Elementary Counselor
Some graphic assets courtesy of Vecteezy.com
Explore Pampa ISD • 3
Stay Close,. Go Far.
800-687-9737 Clarendon
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Locations in Clarendon, Pampa, Childress & Amarillo
Pampa ISD: Our Mission! The Mission of Pampa ISD is to produce learners who are compassionate, competent, conďŹ dent and future-ready!
What we Value! What we Believe! How we Behave! Purposefulness
We believe that the core business of schools is to ensure that every student, every day, is provided challenging, engaging , and meaningful work; therefore we will purposefully prepare ourselves and our students for authentic experiences to ensure their future readiness.
Authentic Engagement
We believe that students and adults learn best when they are actively involved in the learning process; therefore, we will promote engaging and active learning opportunities to staff and students that foster an attitude of being life-long learners.
Mindset for Growth
We believe that all students are capable of high achievement; that intelligence is developed, and that achievement results from consistent and effective effort; therefore, we will support and encourage students and staff to have a growth mindset in order to meet expectations of excellence.
Preparedness
We believe that students must be prepared for a future of rapid change; therefore, we will foster the abilities to reason, to solve problems, to be challenged, and to use technology as a signiďŹ cant tool for learning.
Assurances
We believe we have a collective responsibility to create and sustain a safe environment that is respectful, caring, engaging, vibrant, and culturally responsive. We believe that the alliance of home, school, and community promotes both school and student success; therefore, we will promote ongoing stakeholder communication and seek authentic, trusting relationships. Explore Pampa ISD • 5
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• • • • #iBelieve I can be... Teachers of the Year 37 District
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Project Lead the Way
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Get to Know Superintendent
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Harvesters Around the World
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Back to School
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Tech Yes!
Inaugural Conference 78
BE THE GOOD
Welcome to PLC!
93 2019-2020
PISD Calendar
94 2018-2019
Hall of Fame Inductees
96 PISD Financial Report 98
The Harvester Explore Pampa ISD • 7
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first baptist Pampa
where faith, friends, & family come together!
203 N West St (806) 669-1155 www.firstpampa.org
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Pampa Independent School District School Board 2019-2020
Back L to R: Dr. David Godino, Luis Nava, Denise Intemann Front L to R: Lance DeFever, Cay Warner (Secretary), Richard Qualls (President), Matt Brock (Vice President)
10 • Explore Pampa ISD
Message from Richard Qualls, President On behalf of the Pampa Independent School District Board of Trustees, it is my honor and privilege to welcome you to the 2nd edition of the Explore Pampa ISD Magazine. I also want to say “thank you” for supporting Pampa ISD. Our board’s goal is to provide our community, state, and nation well-educated and well-rounded graduates who are future ready. This can only happen when our students and staff have safe and secure facilities in which to work and learn. This will be an exciting year in Pampa ISD. The community continues to support the booster clubs and schools with money and time so that our students may succeed. Our VIP’s (Volunteers In Pampa Schools) continue to be a huge success and benefit to our students and staff. Many of our community members participated in the “Profile of a Graduate” committee to help identify the skills that our future work forces need to obtain upon graduating from high school. The rallying cry for our staff during this 2018-19 school year was #iBelieve. I was able to speak with each school’s staff at the staff orientation meetings. I reiterated that we continue to hear bad news about the economy and that our athletics’ district was changed, and it was going to be tougher and tougher for PISD to succeed. However, I told them, “I believe in you and that this is going to be a great year for Pampa,” and indeed it was! The theme for the 201920 school year is "Moments." There are so many moments to be Pampa Proud! Our facilities are very well maintained and secured. This year’s test scores were up from previous years and continue to close the gap. Our fall tennis teams advanced to the regional finals, the band received I’s at contest, our volleyball team advanced to the area round of playoffs, Bethany Roden went to State in Cross Country for the 4th consecutive year, we advanced 12 students to TFA State for Speech, and the choir musical, Shrek, was fantastic. Our football team had a successful non-conference schedule and competed in a lot tougher district. Every team knew that they had been in a “Dog Fight” after the Harvesters had played them. The second semester brought numerous successes for our students as well. The Lady Harvesters won their very first district title in school history. The Hustlin’ Harvesters also won the district title and advanced deep in the playoffs. The Harvesters are the UIL District Academic Champions for the sixth time in the last 7 years, with 22 students advancing to Regionals. Band and choir have several students advancing to state. Our Art department had 3 students advance to the state level in VASE. Theater placed 4 students on the district All Star cast. Soccer girls and boys advanced to Area. Boys Golf won district, regionals and 4th at State and our baseball team was the District, Bi-district, and Area Champs! Everyone knows about the rich traditions and past successes of Pampa ISD. The history is on display in the Heritage Room at the Administration Building. I invite you to stop by and visit the Heritage Room if you have never seen it. Even though I am very proud of our history I am even more excited about our current and future graduates. If you would like to see some of the exciting things going on in our schools I invite you to attend many of the public events, sign up as VIP, or make an appointment with a campus principal and get a campus tour. I think you will see why the rest of the Board of Trustees and I are Pampa Proud and believe in our schools. Explore Pampa ISD • 11
Student Ambassadors Serving • Learning • Leading
The Superintendent’s Student Ambassa-
dor program began in 2016 and has continued to positively impact our students, staff, campuses, and the community. Through the tenets of serving, learning, and leading, the Student Ambassadors are engaged in numerous endeavors that are making a difference to so many. Some of the ongoing projects for the Student Ambassadors are SnakPak4Kids and the Back to School Backpack distribution. Past events have included Hurricane Harvey Relief for Lake Jackson schools and developing kindness initiatives on every campus. During the 2018-2019 school year, the Student Ambassadors expanded their service projects to include assisting the Pampa Fire Department in washing the fire-engines and serving at the Chamber of Commerce Annual Banquet where the citizen, business, and youth of the year were awarded. Student Ambassadors had the opportunity to meet and listen to the amazing life-story of Sichan Siv, former US Ambassador to Cambodia. The Student
12 • Explore Pampa ISD
Ambassadors meet monthly with the Superintendent to study leadership, to communicate with others about service projects and leadership opportunities, and to conduct self-reflections on his/her academic goals, leadership experiences, and service projects. The Pampa ISD believes that it is our mission to create the conditions in our classrooms, in our schools, and in our community that ensure the opportunity for each student to be a learner who is compassionate, competent, confident, and future-ready! The Student Ambassador programs provides a mechanism for our students to gain valuable life skills as illustrated in our Profile of a Graduate through school and community outreach. The Superintendent Student Ambassador program has been overwhelmingly successful. Next year, 71 student ambassadors will represent their school and the district. We are excited to see the impact that these students make on a daily basis in their school and in our community.
2018-2019
Pampa ISD Student Ambassadors
Tristan Bagwell 5th Grade Austin
Danika Platt 5th Grade Austin
Kaelyn Murray 5th Grade Lamar
Angel Soto 5th Grade Lamar
Tate LeBlanc 5th Grade Travis
Kaydee Schmatjen 5th Grade Travis
Elyvia Terry 5th Grade Wilson
Boston Botello 5th Grade Wilson
Kyler Peet 6th Grade PJHS - Austin
Jennah McDonough 6th Grade PJHS - Austin
Duncan Gamblin 6th Grade PJHS - Austin
Judson Wilhite 6th Grade PJHS - Austin
Explore Pampa ISD • 13
Carsyn Hunt 6th Grade PJHS - Austin
Rylan Qualls 6th Grade PJHS - Austin
Briley Daniels 6th Grade PJHS - Austin
Ilinca Greer 6th Grade PJHS - Lamar
Mia McClendon 6th Grade PJHS - Lamar
Emma Perry 6th Grade PJHS - Travis
Jessica Alonso 6th Grade PJHS - Wilson
Aidan Garcia 6th Grade PJHS - Wilson
Molly Culpepper 7th Grade PJHS - Travis
Kaley Bilyeu 7th Grade PJHS - Travis
Gianna Davila 7th Grade PJHS - Wilson
Michael Sims 7th Grade PJHS - Austin
Yamilia Rodriguez 8th Grade PJHS - Wilson/Travis
Brianna Soto 8th Grade PJHS - Lamar
Sydney Larkin 8th Grade PJHS - Austin/Travis
Kendyll Roberson 8th Grade PJHS - Travis
14 • Explore Pampa ISD
Hudson Scribner 8th Grade PJHS - Austin
Katie Smith 8th Grade PJHS - Austin
Kaylee Wilhite 9th Grade PHS - Austin
Luis Martinez 9th Grade PHS - Wilson
Mason Zamudio 10th Grade PHS - Wilson
Celeste Ostercamp 10th Grade PHS - Lamar
Seth Smith 10th Grade PHS - Austin
Cooper Trolinger 11th Grade PHS - Austin
Kaitlyn Roberson 11th Grade PHS-Tavis
Cidnie Goodson 11th Grade PHS-Austin/Lamar
Avery Sprinkle 11th Grade PHS-Wilson
Kylee McMurrian 11th Grade PHS-Austin
Carolyn Golleher 12th Grade PHS-Tavis
Jastein McCahen 12th Grade PHS-Lamar Explore Pampa ISD • 15
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Shattered Dreams 2019 was a very emotional and eye opening experience. I was able to see that the unexpected can happen by making one simple mistake and more people care about you than you think. -Avery Sprinkle
For the first time since 2012, the students at Pampa High School experienced the emotion and impact from a campus-wide program called Shattered Dreams. Shattered Dreams was an interactive event spanning several days which included a mock car crash, overnight student retreat, parent education, counseling support, and a school-wide assembly. All of these events were coordinated through a community-wide effort. People from our local emergency response systems including the fire, police, ambulance service and Lifestar, as well as DPS, PRMC emergency room personnel, Carmichael-Whatley Funeral Directors, local civic organizations, community members, and students/teachers were all involved in the planning and presentation of this event. According to US statistics, every 50 minutes someone dies in a drinking and driving accident. This component was presented to the students by having an adult dressed as the Grim Reaper pull a different student every 50 minutes from class. A mock obituary that was created by the parents of the student was read to the classroom by a counselor. These student volunteers, known thereafter as “The Living Dead,” had their faces painted white and then they returned to class with the instruction not to communicate with anyone. These deaths affected so many different people, including teachers, family members, and friends. “Shattered Dreams 2019 was a very emotional and eye opening experience. I was able to see that the unexpected can happen by making one simple mistake and more people care about you than you think.” -Avery Sprinkle After the mock crash, all participants in the mock crash and the students that were a part of the "Living Dead" experience attended an overnight retreat. During the retreat, they had no contact with their parents or friends outside of the retreat. They were educated about the dangers of drinking and distracted driving, and they were also reminded of the emotions that their parents and friends would be experiencing if it was not a mock event. “Shattered Dreams 2019 was a life changing experience that opened my eyes to the dangers of driving while under the influence of drugs/alcohol. I now see that the 'it won’t happen to me' mindset is invalid as we saw it can happen to anyone. Thank you for this life changing experience!” -Cooper Trolinger The organizers and committee members also feel the emotional weight of such a heavy program. "It is something that I have to prepare myself for each time I organize and plan Shattered Dreams. I love the students here at Pampa High School, and to see the hurt and pain that they must experience to later understand the consequences of their decisions is gut wrenching, but then I also get to see the good stuff. I get to see the students come together and Explore Pampa ISD • 17
tell one another how they feel about each other. I get to see the students write letters to their parents and their friends and tell them about the respect and love they have that sometimes has never been shared. I also get to see them read letters from their family and friends that were written to show them how much they care." said Suzanne Pingle, PISD District Social Worker. According to another participant, Margo Mendoza, "The biggest thing that I took away from this experience was speaking up and saying what you feel to those you love in the moment. No one is promised tomorrow and I know from experience it is hard to look past not telling someone you loved them and then never getting the chance to say it again. It is so important to make everyone in your life feel your compassion and your love daily and that is something that I always strive to do."
Stay informed on everything
Pampa ISD!
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Facebook Twitter Instagram Pampa ISD App Can be found in your app store under the name Pampa Schools. • Digital Newsletter Each campus has a digital newsletter • Website www.pampaisd.net
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Explore Pampa ISD • 19
PROFILE to PURPOSE
Pampa ISD Launches Profile of a Graduate Superintendent Tanya Larkin on how the Profile of a Graduate is igniting new purpose, passion, and pride in our schools and community. “Our job is not to prepare students for something. Our job is to help students prepare themselves for anything.” -A.J. Juliani I heard A. J. Juliani speak these words several years ago and they have stuck with me. The role of public education has always been to equip young men and women to be contributing and engaged citizens who will live and thrive in a democracy. I believe in this public mission and have made educating others my life’s work. However, several years ago, I began asking myself if we had lost our way. Had education somehow veered away from our mission? We have as a society become over-reliant on ratings, grades, and outside critics and have under-valued the core work of educators. We are in the business of teaching, learning, growing, and developing. Yet, somehow, we have forgotten that this work takes time, is very much an individual experience, and is ever changing. I am proud of the Pampa ISD Mission: To produce learners who are 20 • Explore Pampa ISD
compassionate, competent, confident and future-ready! So, what does the mission mean? As a community, and as a school district, we expect our learners to be compassionate toward one another and understand both locally and globally how to embrace the human condition. We expect our learners to be competent and confident in the capacities framed in the profile so that they will be equipped and ready for their future. Compelled to get back to the purpose of our mission, I began working with several staff members and stakeholders on the concept of building a profile for Pampa ISD students. In the Spring of 2018, a group of more than 75 stakeholders including parents, students, business representatives, community members, administrators, and teachers met several times and developed a profile that describes the expectations our community believes are required of successful future-ready Pampa ISD Graduates. The committee reviewed various documents, presentations, videos, and testimonies on the 21st Century skills needed for our students in the coming decades and the importance of educating the WHOLE child as we prepare them for their future. The stakeholders determined that the following seven components would be the basis for the profile and would be used in describing the Pampa ISD Future-Ready Graduate:
• Self-Directed • Communicator • Ethical Decision Maker • Creative and Critical Thinker
• Contributing Citizen • Collaborator • Solution Seeker
The Profile of a Future-Ready Graduate frames the discussion for our community and our staff. It encompasses the essence of the goals and dreams we have for our students in Pampa schools. This serves as a compass on our journey to working the true mission of our schools. Now that we have
the profile competencies identified, we must take the necessary steps to operationalize the profile. We must move from Profile to Purpose and work the mission of the district. Teachers, counselors, and administration, along with some stakeholders from the summit, worked during the 2018-19 school year to embed in our instructional days various opportunities for our students K-12 to acquire, explore, and enhance the skills identified in the Profile of a Graduate. Some of the activities and learning experiences include various career fairs where students were able to engage in conversation and exploration of different careers and jobs in the region with volunteers from the field. Other opportunities were in the form of service projects that enabled the students to interact, communicate, and collaborate with students from other school districts and with community and business members of all ages. Several of our CTE pathways provide internships and practicum classes that engage the students in handson work, practice, and job shadowing in order to solve problems, think creatively and critically alongside professionals in our community. We have implemented a social-emotional curriculum in grades K-8 that provides the students opportunities to self-reflect on their emotional intelligence, problem solving skills, ethical decision-making, and self-control. Multiple events in our schools provide students with opportunities to learn about citizenship, character, and how to become a contributing citizen including our mock elections, service projects with the Salvation Army and United Way and of course our Veteran’s Day program to name a few. One of our activities that provided opportunities for students to hone their skills was the UNPLUGGED day at Pampa High School. Students were challenged to NOT bring technology or smart phones to school and engage in authentic conversations with
Basis for the Profile
7 Components Self-Directed: Possesses a positive growth mindset, shows initiative, perseveres through challenges and holds themselves accountable. Contributing Citizen: Understands and values the importance of civic engagement and serving others in the local and global community.
Self Directed
Contributing Citizen
Creative & Critical Thinker
Communicator
Solution Seeker
Collaborator Ethical Decision Maker
Communicator: Skillfully demonstrates listening, speaking, reading and writing to purposefully convey understandings, concepts, and meaning. Collaborator: Understands, cooperates and balances diverse viewpoints and beliefs to reach workable solutions, particularly in varied environments. Ethical Decision Maker: Exhibits integrity, honesty, empathy, fairness and respect in generating both questions and solutions that reflect moral thinking that result in responsible, trusting relationships Solution Seeker: Demonstrates flexibility and innovation while engaging in the problem-solving process. Creative and Critical Thinker: Practices innovative and complex thinking to adapt to dynamic situations in order to transfer knowledge into multiple settings and applications. peers, adults, and community members. Student feedback was surprisingly positive and refreshing. We want our students to be digitally competent to survive and thrive in their world; but we must not lose sight of the importance of human interaction and their ability to have meaningful dialogue and be strong communicators in various contexts. One of the most inspiring events was the LIFE 101 day at Pampa High School. This day was packed full of opportunities for our students to test their profile skills and learn new skills from community and business professionals from all around Gray county. Every senior attended 8 sessions throughout the day that they selected. Some of the sessions included Car Care, Money Matters (taxes, investing, budgeting), Job-Ready Skills and Interviewing, Basic Family Care, Basic Home Maintenance, Nutrition and Mental Health.
We will continue to develop and implement more opportunities for our students to practice the competencies of the Profile of a Graduate. The goal is to ensure that we educate the WHOLE child, every day, and that we are providing them with the appropriate challenges, experiences, and work that will lead our students to exemplify the characteristics and competencies of a Pampa ISD Future-Ready Learner! We encourage you to learn more about the Profile of a Graduate by visiting our website www.pampaisd.net/ProfileofaGraduate. Explore Pampa ISD • 21
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n o s r a K one busy young woman with a purpose.
Photo by Jenny Edwards
During her senior year, her day began at 6:00 am with Cross Fit before school. She was on a tight schedule with high school classes, dual credit classes, rotations at the hospital, tennis practice, and then off to a Wheel Times Board meeting. Karson Parnell, recent graduate from Pampa High School, was one busy young woman with a purpose. She was part of the popular Health Science program at Pampa High School. Karson is the daughter of Kyle and Kayla Parnell, both PHS graduates (1995, 1994). The Parnell family has lived in Pampa for more than 30 years; they attend Central Baptist Church, and are Harvesters through and through. Pampa Independent School District offers numerous post-secondary pathways to the students at Pampa High School and Pampa Learning Center. One of the fastest growing programs is the Health-Science Career Pathway that is offered as part of our Career and Technical Education (CTE) department. This program is only possible through a collaborative partnership with Pampa ISD, the Clarendon College Pampa Center and the local medical professionals in our community.
Profile of a Graduate Spotlight Career and Technical Education:
One Student's Journey by Tanya Larkin
Photo by Charla Shults
Explore Pampa ISD • 23
We met up with Karson Parnell and asked her to share about her experiences in Pampa High School’s Health Science program. Q: How did you decide on your goal of becoming a Nurse Practitioner? “I began taking classes in the Health Science program at PHS my sophomore year and it really sparked an interest in nursing for me. I love helping people, but I wasn’t sure then exactly what area of nursing I wanted to do at first. But, then, I was able to work with Dr. Sieck’s Nurse Practitioner, Callie Crouch. Callie was a significant influence on me and encouraged me to pursue my dream. She even wrote a letter of recommendation for me to get into a nursing program.” Q: Tell us about the Health Science Program at PHS. “The Health Science classes really helped me discover what I enjoy. When researching careers in the medical field, I learned that nursing is really so universal in that there are many different avenues for nurses to practice. I also learned the pay is good! So many of my classes at PHS prepared me for college level work. Because of these courses, I am also now certified in CPR and as a Phlebotomist Technician. I just took the HESI test for entrance into the collegiate nursing program and the PHS Health Science classes prepared me for that too. I passed!" Q: What experiences did you encounter at Pampa Medical Regional Center? "The rotations were so practical. I went every Tuesday, Wednesday, and Thursday from 9:30-10:30 am and various other times for special opportunities. We did several different rotations including the OR, ER, OB, MedSurg, PT, Pediatrics, Family Medicine, Urgent Care, Dept. of Transportation, and Radiology. My favorite rotations were the OR and OB units. One of my favorite memories was working with a hospice patient through Interim Hospice. She was so encouraging every day and her smile and her faith, no matter how much pain she was experiencing, was inspiring." Q: Share with us a little about your experiences at Pampa High School. "I was able to take several dual credit classes at PHS—54 hours. I finished with an Associate’s Degree from Clarendon College with a 4.0 GPA. I also had the opportunity to be involved in many different sports and activities including volleyball, softball, tennis, Fellowship of Christian Athletes, National Honor Society, and Students Against Destructive Decisions." Q: What advice do you have for underclassmen at Pampa High School? “First, take the Dual Credit courses! They prepare you for college and will save you so much money. I will finish my entire plan in 4 years of college for only $35,000. Without my dual credit classes it would cost well over $85,000! And…lastly, get involved as much as possible and don’t get behind. Senioritis is real!” 24 • Explore Pampa ISD
Photo by Charla Shults Photo by Jenny Edwards
Q: Any final thoughts? “I really just want to thank my family for all of their support and guidance. My Dad has helped me every step of the way with researching the nursing profession, colleges, and even my classes. He learned most of this right along with me—especially statistics!” Karson stayed busy with school but found time to volunteer with Interim Hospice, SnakPak4Kids, and Wheel Times. She plans to attend West Texas A&M and become a nurse practitioner. After achieving her goals, she plans to return to her beloved hometown and serve the Pampa community at the Family Medicine Center and be a part of the Pampa Regional Medical Center family. As with all of the college and career opportunities in PISD, the Health Science Pathway provides students with experiences and exposure to the numerous careers and fields of study within a career cluster. These programs include the academic course work necessary for both high school and prerequisites for undergraduate course work, internships, and practicum classes for a variety of career options. These programs provide students with opportunities to build capacity in the components of the Pampa ISD’s Profile of a Graduate. These components illustrate a student’s capacity to be self-directed, a contributing citizen, a communicator and collaborator, an ethical decision maker, a critical and creative thinker, and to be a solution seeker. The Health Science program is just one of the programs the PISD offers students to develop and sharpen these skills every day in the classroom and through internships with partners like this one with the Pampa Regional Medical Center. We encourage you to learn more about the CTE, Dual Credit, and College/Career pathways for students in PISD on our website. Visit us at www.pampaisd.net
2427 N. Hobart St. • Pampa, TX 79065
806-665-0921
Christopher Mohr, DDS
Diana Mohr, DDS
www.pampadentalarts.com Explore Pampa ISD • 25
CTE
IN
PISD
Collaboration & Community, Enhancing Career & Technology Education in PISD By Mark Murray, CTE Department Head
The 2018-2019 school year marked the first year that many seniors will graduate with an industry certification that they received while attending Pampa High School. If you have not
heard, great things are happening in the world of Career & Technology Education. Upon graduation, PHS has two young women that already had jobs secured as Certified Nurse Assistants; a young man had been offered full time employment at a local car dealership as a mechanic, and there are many other examples just like this. 26 • Explore Pampa ISD
Our goal is to prepare students for life after high school whether they continue to college, go straight into a career, or enlist in the military. CTE is changing fast and PISD is committed to offering the best career pathways and industry certifications for our students. What we hope to accomplish in the short time that we have your students is put in place some building blocks that they can continue to grow upon. We hope to spark their interest in the career path of their choice and expose their passion for auto mechanics, welding, health science, information technology, business, culinary arts, or veterinary medicine.
Building Blocks Each year 8th graders from Pampa Junior High are introduced to what they can expect as freshmen at Pampa High School. During the pre-enrollment process, students discover the various programs of study that are offered. With this information, students then are guided through the process of filling out their personal graduation plan. The personal graduation plan sets in place the building blocks of what they will study while in high school to help prepare them for the career of their choice. Beginning in the 2019-2020 school year, the Texas Education Agency will be
introducing ‘Programs of Study’. The Programs of Study will be the overall umbrella that the personal graduation plan will fall under. In the future, when a student chooses the program of study, as parents and educators we will be able to quickly identify which endorsement they will receive as well as which CTE courses they need to complete each year to satisfy the program of study. It is our goal in Pampa ISD to help students discover what they are passionate about and then help guide them and provide them with the tools they need to be successful. By receiving an industry certification while in high school, we are able to help position students to continue their education or begin a new career where they are able to utilize the skills they received while at Pampa High School. When students graduate, whether they remain in Pampa or relocate elsewhere, the building blocks that we put in place will hopefully help and contribute to their success.
Hands-on Learning Many of our classes today offer hands-on experiences so that students are not just reading how to complete a task but actually applying it. By doing this, student learning is enhanced greatly and therefore student understanding is at a much higher level. For example, rather than students merely sitting down and reading instructions on how to change the oil in a car, they are in our shop area actually changing the oil. Another example is a young man has learned by reading a book how to build a BBQ Smoker. He then moves into the welding shop with Mr. Childress and together they build a
nice BBQ Smoker using the skills he obtained in welding class. In Health Science, students in our Practicum of Health Science class partnered with area health providers and received job shadowing experience. New in 2018-2019 was our Certified Phlebotomy Technician program. Students received classroom instruction as well as required hours for lab that lead them to receiving the CPT certifications. In order for students to be able to take the certification exam, they must perform 30 successful sticks. Many of our very own PHS students have volunteered to help these students complete the 30 sticks.
Our newest program, Information Technology, allows students to learn various skills involving server fundamentals, networking fundamentals, etc. Students that choose this program of study will work towards receiving their Microsoft Technology Associate certification. Through efforts between these classes and the district Technology Department, students are able to receive hands-on training/experience while working on the district's technology equipment. For example, students have been working to wipe all of the old Chromebooks that were in use in years past throughout the district.
Hard Work Rewards Imagine walking across the stage to receive your high school diploma knowing that you already have an industry certification in the career field you want to pursue. This dream is now a reality as all of the programs of study that we offer at PHS provide at least one industry certification that students can obtain prior to graduating high school. These certifications include Automotive Service Excellence (ASE), Certified Phlebotomy Technician (CPT), Microsoft Technology Associate (MTA), and so many more. Every one of these certifications make a student more marketable in the job market, providing opportunities for life-long success, which is our goal in Pampa High School’s Career & Technology Education.
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n i g n i v i Thriving
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Surv n e t r a g r Kindedvice from recent dA Quotes an rteners! a g r e d n i PISD K
Addie – A ustin Ele mentar y "Kinderga rten is fun but it is a of work. M lot ake sure y ou keep u with your p grades. M ake sure y eat your c ou arrots."
Elli – Austin Elementary "Kindergarten is fun! I have met many new frie nds. My favori te is the arts and cr afts, I do a lot at home too!" Sharm aign "Listen e–Lamar Ele menta r won’t g to your teach er so yo y et in tr o u uble. D and run on at the s ame tim ’t scream e. Resp ect others."
ar endiz – Lam Easton Res about g in n ar le e is "My favorit ning . We are lear gs in th new ew n d an unds about new so numbers."
amar ave – L n centers. d U x e Al ith fu iday w hands to r F n u . I like f eep my myself ed to k I learn
entar y tin Elem learn. I s u A – Olivia rten. We acher inderga erina te "I like k w g. A ball in it r en I gro w e lik to be wh t n a w I g." is what e dancin up. I lik
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"Raylee Mea rs – Lamar My favorite thing about Kindergarten is my teache r helps us do everything right and sh e is the best teacher I’ve ever had. I would tell kids that they should be happy. Being rude is not the thing to be right about in Kindergarte n."
Skylar Wheat – La mar Elementary "My favorite frien d has a huge brain, it’s as big as earth because they have a bunch of memories from school."
Josiah Cab rales-Lam ar "Fun cente rs are my fa vorite. You have to be nice. I like to pla y on the iP ads."
Hunter – "I like lu Austin Eleme nt nch and candy t ar y you go t ime. If o sleep early wake up rested a you will nd read for rece y ss."
r a e Y r o i Sen Advice that is
r Harveste a e b o t How mpetent, o c , e t a n o compassi e ready! r u t u f d n a confident
"To get through High School, don’t wait last minute to do your work. Try to get things done ahead of time and it will help you out in the long run. Having a calendar might sound stupid, but it will help you out a lot." Kiarra Terrell
To thrive at Pampa High School make sure to pass every class and come to school every single day. Robert Botello
To have a good experience at Pampa High School don’t procrastinate, know you aren’t going to please everyone, always put in effort, be kind to others and make friends with teachers. Callin Burleson To succeed at Pampa High School, you need to be at class. Don’t be skipping, skipping if for bums, showing up is for the cool kids! Don’t be lame, show up to class. Braydon Oxley
Braydon Oxley
Creed Stribling
To survive PHS, not procrastinating is the key to an (almost) stress free experience. If you get your work done ahead of time it will make you feel accomplished. On the social aspect don’t stress about being the most popular. If you are kind and thoughtful you will find the right group of people. Madison Davis Explore Pampa ISD • 29
The Travis Elementary
Kindness Squad By Alicia Ortner, Travis Elementary Counselor Travis Elementary
Byron May, Principal
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n any Tuesday morning after you walk through the cheerfully painted front doors of Travis Elementary, you will find pairs of students lining the halls quietly reading together. Each pair consists of a Kindness Squad member along with a younger, beginning reader. The buddy is typically smiling ear to ear, soaking up the positive attention from their big buddy. The older student reads, asks questions about the text, and invites the younger student to read or point out words or letters they know. Much more than reinforcement of reading skills is happening in these halls, students are making relationships and building community. These powerful cross-age relationships are promoting kindness, inclusiveness, a sense of safety, and teach social skills. The Kindness Squad is comprised of a unique group of upper elementary students. Before joining, they must thoughtfully explain why they want to be a member, show how outside experiences have prepared them to serve, and tell what they feel makes them a great leader. Once they apply, they sign a promise stating they will strive to be of excellent character on and off 30 • Explore Pampa ISD
campus. The Squad meets weekly on Tuesday mornings to read with a buddy, and then on Thursdays to participate or plan activities that promote and maintain a sense of community on our campus. They learn leadership skills that will benefit them throughout their lives. Last ear, the Squad has participated in many different activities around campus. Along with reading with a buddy every Tuesday morning, they have created posters promoting kindness and inclusion. They have worked together to plan assemblies that have honored school board members, as well as promoting the Great Kind-
ness Challenge the last week of January. They have painted and hidden #kindnessrocks around the playground, written kind and encouraging notes to our faculty members, and organized the campus food drive. Each week they also deliver Snack Packs to the classrooms, which teachers then send home with qualifying students. Travis Elementary is blessed by all the positive effects from the service of our Kindness Squad.
Tralee Crisis Center. How may I help you? Since 1984, we have been that calm voice on the other end of the telephone that opens a door of hope for thousands of women, teens, children and men, too, who turned to Tralee Crisis Center when domestic violence, sexual assault, teen dating violence and other violent crimes shattered their lives. Counties served: Carson Childress Collingsworth Donley Gray Hemphill Roberts Wheeler
In the 35years Tralee has served this area, one thing remains constant – caring people always step up when they hear of a true need. Please consider the innocent victims in your community with your support.
Your donations make a difference!
Services: 24-hour shelter
Crisis intervention
Accompaniment
Advocacy
Transportation
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Support
Tralee Crisis Center
310 S. Cuyler or P.O. Box 2880, Pampa, TX 79066-2880—(806) 669-1788 or 1-800-658-2796 www.traleecrisiscenter.com Explore Pampa ISD • 31
“The quiet heroes of the school. They are always the first to arrive each day, cleaning up messes no one dares to touch and befriending everyone that passes by.” –Teresa Kwant At 5:30 A.M. on a cold December morning in the Texas Panhandle, it is 12 degrees and snowing. Pampa ISD custodians have reported to work, shoveled snow, ensured ice-melt is covering the walkways, and cleared parking lots to help families arrive to school safely. Lamar Elementary custodian, Maria Davila, already has more steps on her “fit-bit” than most people record in an entire work day. Davila is one of 3 custodians at Lamar Elementary that serve and meet the needs of 650 students and 80 staff members on a daily basis – rain or shine! She has served in this capacity for 18 years, each year with the same smile and incomparable work ethic. Fast forward to February 1, 2019. Lamar Elementary is participating in “kindness week.” This week allows students the opportunity to learn and show kindness to their peers and campus personnel. Who better to recognize than Davila? Not only does Ms. Davila maintain the facilities, she serves as a friend and encourager to all. Lamar faculty and
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students decide to plan a special moment for Davila this week. At 3:00, everyone quietly enters the Lamar gymnasium. Mrs. Winborne, then Lamar Principal, calls for a janitor to clean up a spill in the gym. Maria enters the gym, surprised to see 500 little voices singing her the following Bruno Mars lyrics: “…Find out what we are made of, for we are called to help our friends in need. You can count on me like 1-23, I’ll be there. And I know when I need it, I can count on you like 4-3-2, you’ll be there. ‘Cause that’s what friends are supposed to do….” Maria cries hysterically as tears of joy run down her face. Several students continue the recognition by showering her with banners and kind words that describe her selfless dedication and sacrifice. Additionally, Davila’s family members are in attendance to greet her with flowers and hugs. Each family member, faculty member, and student that recognized Maria used one common word, KIND! Although this day was dedicated to showing appreciation, in typical Maria fashion, she couldn’t stop thanking everyone else and expressing her appreciation for the servant work she “gets to do” on a daily basis.
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2018-2019 Educational Showcase • #iBelieveIcanbe… The Pampa ISD Educational Showcase is an annual event that highlights the academic work of students from all Pampa ISD schools. With booths staffed by students, there are demonstrations and displays of academic work from all grade levels, content areas, and disciplines that fill the commons and McNeely gymnasium at the high school. This year the work was focused to reflect the theme “#iBelieveIcanbe” as students were tasked to connect their work with future careers. The 9th annual Educational Showcase proved to be a record-breaking event for Pampa ISD. This year’s showcase broke the record in attendance and student participation. Students from across the district gathered to showcase their work and demonstrate their knowledge on subjects from electrical circuits, website building, health screenings, models of early colony settlements, art, PE demonstrations, choir presentations, and much more. Guests were encouraged to participate in an interactive scavenger hunt for students and community members to actively communicate with representatives from a variety of careers. Careers that were represented included a policeman, plumber, banker, writer, PHS Graduate, Physical Therapist, and Mayor. As showcase guests registered, they were given a scavenger card and instructions to locate the representatives of the various careers. As part of the scavenger hunt, participants also were instructed to take a family photo and take a picture with a presenter and to tweet #weBelieveinPISD! At the end of the evening, completed scavenger hunt cards were turned in and prizes were awarded from businesses in the community. If you have not attended an Educational Showcase, you are missing out! It is a great opportunity to champion students and educators, while connecting parents and community members in meaningful ways that will impact student growth, and ultimately impact our community’s future leaders. Join us next year and see that the future is bright!
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Explore Pampa ISD • 35
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36 • Explore Pampa ISD
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2018-2019 Pampa ISD Teachers of the Year
Michelle Ditmore District Elementary Teacher of the Year
Brandy Peterson District Secondary Teacher of the Year
Pampa ISD Teachers of the Year
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Pampa ISD Teachers of the Year 38 • Explore Pampa ISD
Austin Elementary Teacher of the Year
Emerging Teacher of the Year
Paraprofessional of the Year
Demi Singletary 2nd Grade
Aubrey Pearson 3rd Grade
Amanda Ramirez SPED Redirect Aid
Lamar Elementary
Teacher of the Year
Emerging Teacher of the Year
Paraprofessional of the Year
Michelle Ditmore 5th Grade
Kelsey Johnson 4th Grade
Becky Jackson FSA Head Start Aide
Travis Elementary
Teacher of the Year
Emerging Teacher of the Year
Paraprofessional of the Year
Jill West 5th Grade
Shannon Watson Kindergarten
Kelly Flood SPED Aide
Emerging Teacher of the Year
Paraprofessional of the Year
Maggie Zamudio 4th Grade
Adela Solis Kindergarten-Bilingual
Sergio Urrutia ELL Aide
Pampa Junior High School Teacher of the Year
Emerging Teacher of the Year
Paraprofessional of the Year
Brandy Peterson 7th Grade Math
Bailey Read 8th Grade English
CeCe Smith SPED Redirect Aide
Pampa High School Teacher of the Year
Emerging Teacher of the Year
Michelle Jensen English
Rex Childress Agriculture
Pampa ISD Teachers of the Year
Wilson Elementary
Teacher of the Year
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Wilson Academic Showcase By Keana Daughtry, Principal
Here at Wilson, we began to notice a trend with our traditional award ceremonies at the end of each six week grading period. We were mostly celebrating the same students over and over again for A and AB Honor Roll and Perfect Attendance. Though we were extremely proud of our students and their successes, we wanted to find a way to encourage all of our students to keep working hard and to celebrate their growth as well. We decided to do something different with our award ceremonies because we know that ALL of our students are unique, talented, and have value. In order to do that, we have chosen to not have our traditional award ceremonies and instead have invited parents to attend a Student Highlight Showcase twice a year! Pampa ISD hosts a district-wide Academic Showcase in October each year and all of our students enjoy that experience so much. We decided to host two additional Student Highlight Showcases at Wilson this year in order to celebrate all of our students' growth, successes, hard work, and talents! We wanted to find a way to highlight their unique talents and progress. Each student, kindergarten through fifth grade has a portfolio that they are expected to add at least one artifact to each week from their various classes. In addition to student work, students are encouraged to add in extracurricular activities like art, poetry, etc. Our students at Wilson not only work hard to learn and grow academically, but they are also extremely talented. These Showcases afford our students the ability to showcase athletic and artistic talents as well. These Showcases give all of our students the ability to show success and growth. We encourage parents and families to come to see their student’s portfolios and celebrate every child’s uniqueness. We are still cele-
40 • Explore Pampa ISD
brating our students for achieving A and AB honor roll, attendance, and kindness awards because we are incredibly proud of those accomplishments as well. We also know that having A’s and B’s is not the only way to show success. We are proud of each and every one of our amazing students at Wilson! Thank you so much for the opportunity to work with your child(children)! Showcase Examples: One fourth grader that participated in showcasing their artistic side showed off her ability to do origami. She explained that she does this to help stay calm and it helps her focus on things. Her origami was impressive! Another student said, “I was so nervous to sing, but this song (Champion by Carrie Underwood) speaks to me and helps me stay strong!” When asked, a parent at Wilson Elementary said, “I love that all of the students get a chance to show their talents. I know I wasn’t a straight A student when I was in school and this kind of thing would have really encouraged me.”
Wilson Elementary
Keana Daughtry, Principal
Explore Pampa ISD • 41
What's Your Plan?
College, Career, and Military Readiness Preparation Guide 42 • Explore Pampa ISD
Simply stated, College, Career, and Military Preparation endeavors at Pampa ISD are based on our conviction that all students can experience success in high school, college/university, career, military service, and ultimately life in general if they choose to plan for that success. For this important reason we habitually pose the same question year after year beginning in elementary and throughout high school to our student body:
What's Your Plan? Elementary School Children as young as kindergarten are beginning to think about their identities, strengths, differences, and to absorb messages from adults—spoken and unspoken—about what kind of students they are and what is expected of them. It is very important that parents, teachers, administrators, and guidance counselors send clear, consistent messages to young children that adults believe in them, think they are capable, and that they are valued as members of the school community. By doing this, the adults create a positive association with school at an early age. Early elementary school is also a time when students are developmentally ready to build awareness of different subjects and disciplines, of school-related milestones and benchmarks, and of different types of careers. Kids this age may not grasp the details, but exposure to different types of training and work builds background knowledge to prepare them for later exploration of various career options, and ultimately concentrating on a particular field. Students to do: ❑ Do your best in school everyday ❑ Read as much as possible ❑ Have fun learning ❑ If you have a question, ask someone ❑ Attend any college, career, or military prep events offered at your school
Students to explore: Visit www.kids.gov to learn about jobs and to find fun online games. Check out the Kids’ Zone at www. nces.ed.gov/nceskids Parents to do: ❑ Help your kindergartener develop an interest in reading by reading aloud to him or her. ❑ Check your child’s homework and follow his or her progress in school by looking at report cards and attending teacher conferences ❑ Start saving for your child’s college education. Learn about the tax advantages of state-offered college savings plans and prepaid tuition plans at www.collegesavings.org. ❑ Take a look at the K-12 resources for parents provided by Texas Workforce Commission at http://www.twc.state.tx.us/ students. Students who have been in school for several years have learned the routines of the classroom, have likely developed preferences for certain subjects and learning modalities, and have experienced both academic success and frustration. They are more self-aware as students and better equipped to both communicate about their learning and exhibit success in their academic lives. Upper elementary students are developmentally ready for more accountability and a higher degree of exposure to different types of post-secondary speakers and career professionals.
Junior High Middle school students are at an age where interest inventories can be helpful tools to promote self-knowledge and to see how their aptitudes align with various workforce opportunities. They are also ready to begin regularly practicing academic goal setting. The influence of older students can play a significant role and may be very helpful for transition to high school. Students to do: ❑ Make continuing your education after high school a definite part of your future plans. Discuss ideas with family and trusted teachers and counselors at PJHS. ❑ Start saving money for college if you have not already. ❑ Choose challenging and interesting classes to prepare for high school; including the College and Career Readiness course which offers interest and skill inventory assessments.
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❑ Discover additional resources by visiting: https://texasoncourse.org/students-families#level-1 Parents to do: ❑ Use FAFSA4caster at fafsa.gov to find out how much federal student aid your child might receive. This information will help you plan ahead. ❑ Continue saving for your child’s college education. If you have not opened a savings account, you can find information about tax advantages and links to state plans at www. collegesavings.org. ❑ Talk to your child about his or her interests and help match those interests with a college major and career. ❑ Help your child develop good study habits, such as studying at the same time and place every day and having the necessary materials to complete assignments. ❑ Stay in contact with your child’s teachers and counselor so that they can let you know about any changes in your child’s behavior or schoolwork. ❑ Keep an eye on your child’s grades, and help him or her find tutoring assistance, if necessary.
Pampa ISD superintendent, Tanya Larkin, leads an activity at the Austin Elementary "Whats' Your Plan?" event. Annual assemblies are held at each campus to remind students that is never too early to develop a plan.
Junior High cont. ❑ Develop strong study habits. ❑ Do your best in school and on standardized tests. If you are having difficulty, don’t give up—get help from a teacher, tutor, or mentor. ❑ Become involved in school or community-based activities that let you explore your interests and learn new things. ❑ Speak with adults, such as your teacher, school counselor or librarian, relatives, or family friends, who you think have interesting jobs. Ask them what they like about their job and what education they needed for it. ❑ Review endorsement options available at Pampa High School. Consider what you (only you, not everyone else) find interesting. ❑ Prepare important questions to ask high school CTE teachers when they come to visit your class to talk more about what programs they teach and what jobs they prepare you for. Students to explore: Find out why you should prepare for college now at www.StudentAid.gov/prepare ❑ Browse My Future, My Way: First Steps Toward College, a workbook for middle and junior high school students, at www.StudentAid.gov/resources#my-future
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Parents to explore: ❑ Get tips from the following documents at www.ed.gov/ parents/academic/help/hyc.html: Helping Your Child With Homework offers suggestions on how to empower your child to successfully complete assignments. ❑ Helping Your Child Through Early Adolescence addresses issues that parents of 10- to 14-year-olds generally find most challenging. ❑ Browse Parent Power at www.ed.gov/parents/academic/ help/parentpower/booklet.pdf for ideas to help support your child as he or she transitions into high school.
High School Students often enter high school with a somewhat fixed idea of their skills and interests. This can be beneficial in some ways because it can allow them to focus, but it can also potentially limit them from new or unexplored opportunities or skill development. At Pampa HS we encourage students to continue exploration but to also endeavor to take rigorous coursework to further abilities for critical problem-solving and independent practice. Once students reach the upper levels of high school, their post-secondary planning should have already begun. They are now ready to concentrate on specific career possibilities through activities like practicum courses, internships, job shadowing opportunities, and dual credit opportunities. Ideally, by the time they graduate, students should exhibit independence, the ability to critically think and solve problems, and perform at the college-ready level. Students who prioritize their abilities to perform at the college-level, may successfully earn valuable industry recognized credentials, and/or earn college credit hours for transfer or even earn a fully-accredited Associates Degree from Clarendon College by the time of their high school graduation.
Every Year in High School Students to do: ❑ Review TEA’s Graduation Toolkit for information about graduation requirements, programs of study, and ways to earn distinguished achievements. ❑ Stay involved in school or community-based activities that interest you or let you explore career interests. Consider working or volunteering. Remember that it’s quality—not quantity—that counts. ❑ Talk to your school counselor and other mentors about education after high school. Your counselor can answer questions about what classes to take in high school, how to sign up for standardized tests, and where to get money for college. ❑ Create a personal email account (google, yahoo, Microsoft live, etc) with appropriate email address, and a password you can easily remember. Plan to retain this email account for many years, use it for all important college, career, and/ or military email correspondence. ❑ Attend the Fall College Night, and Spring Career Day. As well as any local events: such as job fairs, soft skills trainings, college prep programs offered by local community-based organizations Students to explore: ❑ Check out KnowHow2Go: The Four Steps to College, at www.knowhow2go.org for more advice on actions you can take as you start thinking about education beyond high school. ❑ Explore the resources for high school students and families at: https://texasoncourse.org/students-families#level-1 ❑ Get answers to common questions about college by watching our videos on the “Prepare for College” playlist at www. YouTube.com/FederalStudentAid. Parents to do: ❑ Attend the PISD Annual Educational Showcase event ❑ Continue to talk to your child about college plans as if he or she will definitely go to college. ❑ Keep an eye on your child’s study habits and grades. Stay involved. ❑ Encourage your child to take dual credit, advanced placement courses, or other challenging classes. ❑ Add to your child’s college savings account regularly. ❑ Submit the PISD application for free/reduced lunches each year. Results from this form will determine eligibility for dual credit class tuition waiver. Parents to explore: ❑ Explore www.StudentAid.gov/parent for information on saving for college, borrowing for college, applying for financial aid, getting tax benefits to help make college affordable, and more.
9th Grade Students to do: ❑ Review “Every Year in High School” checklist. ❑ Talk to your school counselor or teachers about Advanced Placement courses. Find out what courses are available, whether you are eligible, and how to enroll in them.
Hot Tips: • File your federal income taxes as soon as possible. Your FASFA cannot be filed until after your taxes have been submitted. Schools have limited scholarship funds and delayed FASFA filing could result in missed college scholarship opportunities! • Pay careful attention to deadlines! Mark a calendar or set reminders on your phone. Missed deadlines are not overlooked by colleges or other scholarship opportunities. • Pampa ISD allows for students to have two days of excused absences for college visits. The absences must be pre-approved. Ask the school office for details.
❑ Use the career search at www.StudentAid.gov/careersearch or utilize the valuable tools located at: http://www.texascareercheck.com/ which focus on exploring careers, exploring education, and planning for college, career, and/or military success in Texas. ❑ Make a list of your awards, honors, extracurricular activities, and paid and volunteer work. Consider participating in academic enrichment programs, summer workshops, and camps with specialty focuses such as music, arts, or science. ❑ Declare an endorsement, review preliminary graduation plan with counselors, then take home and return with parent/guardian signature. Note the plan can be changed anytime upon student request. ❑ Any students planning to start dual credit classes their Sophomore year should find an opportunity to take the TSI test before the end of 9th grade year. Students to explore: ❑ Visit https://studentaid.ed.gov/sa/prepare-for-college#why-college for a quick rundown on why deciding to attend college is a no-brainer. ❑ Find ways to get help preparing for college at www.StudentAid.gov/prepare-for-college/help ❑ Other courses of interest for next year ❑ Specific requirements to take dual credit, or AP classes
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Did You Know?
Students can Earn an Associate Degree before High School Graduation! The Texas Higher Education Coordinating Board defines "dual credit" as the process by which a high school student enrolls in a college course and receives simultaneous academic credit for the course from both the college and the high school. While dual credit courses are often taught on the secondary school campus to high school students only, a high school student can also take a course on the college campus and receive both high school and college credit. Dual credit courses can be academic or technical in nature. These courses are stepping stones from high school to college, and serve as a path to academic degree programs or college-level workforce education certifications. There are numerous advantages for both the student and the state in regards to dual credit. A few possible advantages include: • Increased likelihood that a student will complete high school, enroll in, and persist in college • Decreased cost of tuition and fees for students by accelerating time to degree • Accelerated degree time may free up facility space and faculty for additional students to enroll • Expedited entry into the workforce and into wage earning and beneficial positions PHS students enroll in dual credit courses for many reasons: • Earn general education credit to transfer to other colleges or universities • Earn a workforce certificate to utilize while pursuing additional education • Earn an Associate Degree PRIOR to PHS graduation • Accelerate time to PHS graduation Current offerings derived from 2 higher education partners: 1. College-level engineering credit is provided through a partnership between PISD and UT Tyler and is aligned around the widely accepted Project Lead the Way curriculum. “Keep up the PACE with UT Tyler. The PACE Program at UT Tyler allows students the opportunity to earn dual credit for core academic courses that will transfer to all public institutions in Texas as well as many out-of-state institutions. The PACE Program partners with high schools across the state by offering college courses in a variety of formats to meet the needs of administrators, teachers, and students.” 2. Texas general education core courses, provided through Clarendon College, allow students to earn college level credits, at a reduced price. These credits can be applied towards an undergraduate degree at any public college and university. Dual credit career/technical courses offer students the opportunity to earn college level credits toward nursing, welding, cosmetology, and industrial maintenance. Through our local partnership with Clarendon College, Pampa High School students may attend dual credit courses on either the college or high school campus, receive automatic admission to pathway programs, and accelerate their time to completion. The citizens of Pampa and other stakeholders provide financial assistance for economically disadvantaged students to participate in dual credit courses for little to no cost.
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9th Grade cont. Parents to do: ❑ Review “Every Year in High School” checklist. ❑ Make sure you are fully aware of the provisions of any college savings accounts you have opened for your child. ❑ Question your child about their choice of endorsement, their class schedule, and their current career aspirations. Sign and return your student’s Personal Graduation Plan (contact counselors for more information). ❑ Discuss AP and dual credit options with your child.
10th Grade Students to do: ❑ Review “Every Year in High School” checklist. ❑ Meet with your school counselor or mentor to discuss colleges and their admissions requirements. ❑ Consider taking a practice Preliminary SAT/National Merit Scholarship Qualifying Test (PSAT/NMSQT®) or PSATTM 10. ❑ After all, EOC/STAR testing completed this year, sign up for your first attempt at the TSI Assessment. ❑ Plan to use your summer wisely: Work, volunteer, or take a summer course (away from home or at a local college). ❑ Go to career information events when possible. ❑ Research majors that might be a good match with your interests and goals. Consider what fits well with your results from the career search at StudentAid.gov/careersearch, or from the Interest Profiler at www.texascareercheck.com Students to Explore: ❑ Learn the differences between grants, loans, workstudy, and scholarships at www.StudentAid.gov/types. ❑ Think about starting to research different colleges. Play around with the College Scorecard tool at www.collegescorecard.ed.gov to explore schools based on size, location, programs, and more. ❑ Find information about where to find career focused programs and education in Texas at www.texascareercheck. com. Parents to do: ❑ Review “Every Year in High School” checklist. ❑ Talk with your child about dual credit, AP, and other advanced courses ❑ Plan to attend the college night event at PHS in the fall semester. ❑ Help your child develop independence by encouraging him or her to take responsibility for balancing homework with other activities or a part-time job.
11th Grade Students to do: ❑ Review “Every Year in High School” checklist. ❑ Explore careers and their earning potential with the Occupational Outlook Handbook search tool at https://www.bls.gov/ ooh/. ❑ Learn about choosing a college using the college search
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tool provided at www.studentaid.gov/prepare-for-college/ choosing-schools. Or by using the college planning guide found here: https://bigfuture.collegeboard.org/ Go to college fairs and college-preparation presentations hosted by school counselors and/or college representatives. Take the PSAT/NMSQT.* You must take the test in 11th grade to qualify for scholarships and programs associated with the National Merit Scholarship Program. Register for and take exams for college admission and placement.* The tests that many colleges require are the TSI, SAT, the SAT Subject Tests, and the ACT. Check with the colleges you are interested in to see what tests they require. Use the free scholarship search tool at StudentAid.gov/ scholarships to find scholarships for which you might want to apply. Some deadlines fall as early as the summer between 11th and 12th grades, so prepare now to submit applications soon.
Students to explore: ❑ Visit www.YouTube.com/FederalStudentAid and go to the “Types of Aid” playlist to see how the government can help you pay for college. ❑ Learn how to avoid scholarship scams and identity theft at https://studentaid.ed.gov/sa/types/scams Parents to do: ❑ Review “Every Year in High School” checklist. ❑ Take another look at your financial situation, and be sure you’re on the right track to pay for college. ❑ Talk to your child about the schools he or she is considering. Ask why those schools appeal to your child, and help him or her clarify goals and priorities. ❑ Attend college fairs with your child, but don’t take over the conversation with the college representatives. Just listen; let your child do the talking. ❑ Take your child to visit college campuses, preferably when classes are in session. ❑ Attend any financial aid information events at your child’s school.
❑ As soon as possible after its Oct. 1 release, complete and submit your Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA®) at fafsa.ed.gov, along with any other financial aid applications your chosen school(s) may require. You should submit your FAFSA by the earliest financial aid deadline of the schools to which you are applying, usually by early February. ❑ After you submit the FAFSA, you should receive your Student Aid Report (SAR) within three days to three weeks. This document lists your answers to the questions on your FAFSA and gives you some basic information about your aid eligibility. Quickly make any necessary corrections and submit them to the FAFSA processor. ❑ If you haven’t done so already, register for and take such exams as the TSI, SAT, SAT Subject Tests, or ACT for college admission.* Check with the colleges you are interested in to see what tests they require. ❑ Apply to the colleges you have chosen. Prepare your applications carefully. Follow the instructions, and PAY CLOSE ATTENTION TO DEADLINES! ❑ Well before your college application deadlines, ask your counselor and teachers to submit the required documents (e.g., transcript, letters of recommendation) to the colleges to which you’re applying. ❑ Complete any last scholarship applications. ❑ Visit colleges that have invited you to enroll. ❑ (Review your college acceptances and compare the col-
12th Grade Students to do: ❑ Review “Every Year in High School” checklist. ❑ Work hard all the way to graduation—second-semester grades can affect scholarship eligibility. ❑ Stay involved in after-school activities, and seek leadership roles if possible. ❑ By October 1, create a username and password called an FSA ID that you’ll use to confirm your identity when accessing your government financial aid information and electronically signing your federal student aid documents. You and your parent will each need your own unique FSA ID. Learn about the FSA ID, and create yours, at https://fsaid.ed.gov/ npas/index.htm Note: You must create your own FSA ID; if your parent creates it for you, that will cause confusion later and will slow down the financial aid application process.
Attending Spring College Night at PHS is a great way to learn more about different schools, as well as college life in general. College websites are great resources, too. Military recruiters are also there to answer any questions.
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12th Grade cont. leges’ financial aid offers. Use the “Compare Financial Aid Offers” tool at www.consumerfinance.gov/paying-for-college to analyze aid offers side by side. ❑ Contact a school’s financial aid office if you have questions about the aid that school has offered you. In fact, getting to know your financial aid staff early is a good idea no matter what—they can tell you about deadlines, paperwork you might need to submit, and other aid for which you might wish to apply. ❑ When you decide which school you want to attend, notify that school of your commitment and submit any required financial deposit. Many schools require this notification and deposit by May 1. ❑ Once you have chosen the specific college, university, or branch of military you will attend, ask your college admission counselor or recruiter for some type of regalia to display on PHS CCM Signing Day. Students to explore: ❑ Refer to StudentAid.gov/fafsa to learn about the FAFSA process. ❑ Understand the FAFSA better by watching the videos in the “FAFSA: Apply for Aid” playlist at www.YouTube.com/FederalStudentAid. ❑ Follow or like the office of Federal Student Aid at www.Twitter.com/FAFSA and www.Facebook.com/FederalStudentAid to get regular financial aid tips. ❑ Make informed decisions about student loans; find important information at the “Why Get a Federal Student Loan?” and the “Federal Versus Private Loans” page at www.StudentAid.gov/federal-vs-private. Parents to do: ❑ Review “Every Year in High School” checklist. ❑ Work with your child on collecting all required documentation and submission of the FAFSA.
Military Preparation The Armed Services Vocational Aptitude Battery test (ASVAB) is a multiple-aptitude test that measures developed abilities and helps predict future academic and occupational success in the military. To date this test has been administered to seniors each fall, but beginning in the fall of 2018, Pampa ISD began offering the ASVAB to sophomore and junior students, as well. Information regarding the ASVAB will be announced as the fall test date nears.
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Parents to explore: ❑ Make sure your child’s personal information is safe when he or she applies for financial aid. For tips, read Federal Student Aid and Identity Theft at www.StudentAid.gov/resources#consumer-protection. ❑ Go to www.irs.gov and read IRS Publication 970, Tax Benefits for Education to see how you might benefit from federal income tax credits for education expenses. Search for “Publication 970” from the IRS home page to find the most recent version of the document. ❑ Understand the benefits of federal student loans by reading “Why Get a Federal Student Loan?” www.StudentAid.gov/ federal-vs-private. ❑ Help your child learn about the responsibilities involved in accepting a student loan by reviewing www.StudentAid.gov/ types/loans#considerations with him or her. ❑ Look at communications from schools to which your child sent FAFSA information. If a school has offered you or your child Direct Loans, the Federal Student Loans: Basics for Students and Federal Student Loans: Direct PLUS Loan Basics for Parents booklets might be useful to you. Find them at www.StudentAid.gov/resources#loans.
College Tuition Whether you have years to prepare, or the time is drawing near, Financial preparation is a BIG DEAL! For most families, paying for college is a huge task! But the U.S. Department of Education offers a helpful variety of options to aid in reducing this gigantic task down to size, whether applying to a vocational/technical school, college or university. It is essential to know the eligibility requirements and application process for federal student aid. And it is necessary to understand the different types of financial aid available to help cover expenses such as tuition and fees, books and supplies, and room and board. Aid can even help pay for transportation, a computer, and dependent care as needed.
Who is Eligible for Federal Student Aid? To meet the basic eligibility requirements, you must: • Demonstrate financial need • Be a U.S. citizen or an eligible non-citizen • Have a valid Social Security number • If male, be registered with Selective Service (you must register between the ages of 18 and 25) • Have a high school diploma or recognized equivalent, such as a General Educational Development (GED) OR - a completed high school education in a state approved home school setting • Be accepted for enrollment as a regular student in an eligible degree or certification program • For more details about our eligibility criteria, visit StudentAid.gov/eligibility
How does one apply for Federal Student Aid? To apply for Federal Student Aid, you must: • File Federal Income Taxes • Fill out FAFSA® (Free Application for Federal Student Aid) at fafsa.ed.org
There are three main categories of federal student aid:
Grants The U.S. Department of Education offers many different types of grants. Most are awarded to students based on financial need, and are not required to be paid back.
Loans There is a wide variety of federal and private loans available to help to meet college expenses. Loan money must be repaid, the majority, with interest.
Work Study Programs The work-study program helps college students find employment on or near campus, offering accommodating earning opportunities while attending classes.
For more information on federal student aid visit: www.StudentAid.gov Explore Pampa ISD • 49
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State of the Harvesters 2018-2019 Seasons
ng i k a M y... r o t s i H
Lady Harvesters, 2018-19 District Champs, Bi-District Qualifier Baseball District Champs, Bi-District Champs, Area Champs, Regional Quarterfinals Qualifier Basketball Boys District Champs, Bi-District Champs, Area Champs, Regional Quarterfinals Qualifier Basketball Girls First Time Ever--District Champs, Bi-District Qualifier Cross Country, 7 Regional Qualifiers Golf- Boys, District Champs, Team Regional Qualifier, 1st place Boy Regionals, 1 State Qualifier 4th place finisher Soccer Boys, Bi-District Champs, Area Finalist Soccer Girls, Bi-District Champs, Area Finalist Swimming, 16 Regional Qualifiers Team Tennis - District Champs, Area Champs, Regional Qualifiers Tennis- Spring, District Champs, 12 Regional Qualifiers, 4 State Qualifiers Track Boys, 11 Area Qualifiers, 2 Regional Qualifiers Track Girls, District Champions, 17 Area Qualifiers, 9 Regional Qualifiers Volleyball, Bi-District Champs, Area Qualifier Wrestling, 5 Regional Qualifiers
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Pampa ISD Earns Texas Education Agency Academic Distinctions Districts receive an annual performance rating from the Texas Education Agency (TEA), and Pampa ISD is pleased to announce that each of our seven campuses met the state standard for the 20172018 school year. In addition to meeting the overall standard, individual campuses are eligible to receive statewide recognition for academic achievement, known as “Distinction Designations.” Distinction Designations are awarded for academic achievement in several areas and are based on performance relative to a group of schools of similar type, size, grade span, and student demographics.
Lamar Elementary – (1) Top 25 Percent: Comparative Academic Growth This distinction shows how students perform over time and how that growth compares to similar schools. Lamar Elementary was ranked 5th of 40 in this category.
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Pampa High School – (1) Academic Achievement in Social Studies, (2) Postsecondary Readiness, and (3) Top 25 Percent: Comparative Closing the Gaps (1) 41% of PHS students received the highest level of achievement on the U.S. History EOC exam. (2) PHS received a distinction in postsecondary readiness due to its four-year longitudinal graduation rate of 98%, alongside the four-year graduation plan rate of 93.1%. Also, The AP/IB examination participation rate was at 26.5%. (3) Pampa High School ranked 11th of 40 in this category.
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Pampa ISD 18+ Program
A "Win Win" for Everyone! by Mona Hennessey and Sandar Godwin
54 • Explore Pampa ISD
The Pampa High School 18+ Program provides transition services to students with disabilities who are between the ages of 18 and 22. Established in 2017, “18+” has blossomed into a successful and beneficial program to students with disabilities who are capable of living semi-independently. This program, while relatively new, has already proven to be of great value. Lisa Mitchell, head of Pampa High School’s Special Education Department remarks: "The 18+ Program is a treasure at Pampa High School. It is so exciting to watch how our Special Education students learn to feel valued as productive adult citizens in the community while, in return, the community recognizes the value of these students as beneficial employees who are a true asset to their businesses. This is such a “win-win” for everyone. Our students have support from the program throughout their employment as they learn how to be professional on the job and how to gain confidence in their decision making on the job as well. This gives them such a purpose as they venture out into a new chapter in their lives. I am so proud of them and so thankful for the employers in the community for giving each of them this opportunity." The goal and mission of 18+ is to assist students with acquiring the skills which are necessary to transition into the real world. This can include job coaching at local approved vocational training sites. Some of the businesses which have graciously allowed students in this program to obtain training hours are United Supermarkets, Country Chevrolet, Walmart, and Pak-ASak. Students also have the opportunity to obtain daily living skills such as balancing a checking account, and maintaining a budget.
jah Palma, Shyann Price, and Summer Price. Each student has shown significant progress since entering the program in August 2018. All four students have entered the workforce since starting the vocational program, and report satisfaction in their jobs. While in this program, each student can obtain a job, and will have job coach support from the program on an as-needed basis. This provides support for students with disabilities to transition into adulthood as independently as possible." Pampa High School holds high expectations for all students. Our hope is to provide the support and education they need while here, but also give the tools necessary to be successful after graduation. So far, every student who has entered the 18+ Program has shown tremendous growth and have reported to have fulfillment in their career, as well as having confidence to follow their dreams. We are proud of them and their many accomplishments.
"We are very excited about the successes of the 4 current students in 18+: Michael DeLeon Hardy, Eli-
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P
ampa ISDʼs art programs spent their 2018/19 school year with an eye on community service, art advocacy, and reaching a level of excellence that will result in Pampa being one of the first districts in the state of Texas to receive a prestigious distinction from the Texas Art Education Association (TAEA). TAEAʼs new District of Distinction recognition is awarded to districts in Texas that have met a rigorous set of fourteen criteria, all of which are designed with a benefit to students.
ART 56 • Explore Pampa ISD
The TAEA criteria include a public exhibition of student artwork (PISD Educational Showcase), art advocacy through articles and social media, community service hours for art club students, and a registered Big Art Day event. Additionally, to receive the distinction, PISD was required to submit student artwork to two different state-level events: the TASA/TASB Convention (Texas Association of School Administrators/Texas Association of School Boards), and the Texas Youth Art Month student art exhibit held at the Bob Bullock Texas State History Museum and the Texas State Capitol in Austin. This past school year, PHS sophomore Raegan Beckham was selected to have her artwork displayed at the TASA/TASB Convention in Austin, and PHS junior Kayla Monds was one of only 100 students selected from across the entire state of Texas to have her artwork displayed
in the Youth Art Month exhibit in Austin. All of these requirements help PISD to receive the District of Distinction award from TAEA, but more importantly, they benefit our students and help us in our efforts to educate the whole child. Educating “the whole child” provides lifelong benefits as we work to help students become “future ready” and develop their creative thinking skills. By the end of the 2018-2019 school year, Pampa met every requirement set forth by TAEA for our class. Our community should be incredibly proud of the hard work this year to advance PISD’s status as a district that supports and promotes the arts so that our students can thrive in all areas.
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PAMPA ISD whole school safety and security for the whole child Providing a safe and secure environment for students to learn and educators to teach is “Priority #1” at Pampa ISD. Creating school campuses that are emotionally, physically, and digitally safe, secure, and healthy is a responsibility that is not taken lightly. The Pampa ISD School Board, administrators, staff, parents, community stakeholders, and students have planned, prepared, and practiced programs and drills in order to proactively prepare for the unknown, the unwanted, and the unimaginable. We understand that this is a process that will continually evolve, but constant is the fact that school safety is and will remain “Priority #1.”
Digital and Cyber Security
We take great effort to ensure the digital safety of our students. Additionally, we explicitly educate our students on digital safety, citizenship and responsibility. Below are many of our programs: Lightspeed Web Filter monitors key words and phrases to alert personnel of inappropriate searches such as violence, drugs, suicide, etc. – Notifications are sent when users access blocked sites and perform suspicious searches. Gaggle monitoring of student Google drive, human monitoring and notification to Pampa ISD staff of inappropriate words, phrases, and harmful situations. Microsoft Exchange Online Protection and Office 365 Security and Compliance monitor key words from a universal list of inappropriate words and phrases for staff and student emails. This service monitors over 4,000 accounts. Sophos offers anti-virus and malicious website protection, and protects active staff, student and district devices. STOPit is an anonymous anti-bullying reporting mobile device app. It is available to over 3,500 Pampa ISD students and their families.
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Dual Firewall Protection through Pampa ISD and Region 16 prevents unauthorized access to the school network. Digital Safety and Citizenship is taught through curriculum in K-8 and is embedded into digital projects throughout a student’s K-12 academic experience.
Social and Emotional Safety
Social and Emotional Learning (SEL) is the process through which children and adults acquire and effectively apply the knowledge, attitudes, and skills necessary to understand and manage emotions, set and achieve positive goals, feel and show empathy for others, establish and maintain positive relationships, and make responsible decisions. There are five Core SEL Competencies. Each plays a role in enhancing students’ capacity to integrate skills, attitudes, and behaviors to effectively and ethically deal with daily tasks and challenges. All students in grades K-8 are explicitly taught and engage in lessons to acquire these SEL skills. Self-awareness The ability to accurately recognize one’s own emotions, thoughts, and values and how they influence behavior. The ability to accurately assess one’s strengths and limitations, with a well-grounded sense of confidence, optimism, and a “growth mindset.” • Identifying emotions • Accurate self-perception • Recognizing strengths • Self-confidence • Self-efficacy
Self-Management The ability to successfully regulate one’s emotions, thoughts, and behaviors in different situations — effectively managing stress, controlling impulses, and motivating oneself. The ability to set and work toward personal and academic goals. • Impulse control • Self-discipline • Goal-setting
• Stress management • Self-motivation • Organizational skills
Social awareness The ability to take the perspective of and empathize with others, including those from diverse backgrounds and cultures. The ability to understand social and ethical norms for behavior and to recognize family, school, and community resources and supports. • Perspective-taking • Appreciating diversity
• Empathy • Respect for others
Relationship skills The ability to establish and maintain healthy and rewarding relationships with diverse individuals and groups. The ability to communicate clearly, listen well, cooperate with others, resist inappropriate social pressure, negotiate conflict constructively, and seek and offer help when needed. • Communication • Relationship-building
• Social engagement • Teamwork
Responsible decision-making The ability to make constructive choices about personal behavior and social interactions based on ethical standards, safety concerns, and social norms. The realistic evaluation of consequences of various actions, and a consideration of the well-being of oneself and others. • Identifying problems • Analyzing situations • Solving problems • Evaluating • Reflecting • Ethical responsibility
Physical - Campus Safety & Security Emergency planning and management plays a key part in keeping our schools safe. The sad reality is that potential threats or events can occur with little or no warning. This requires Pampa ISD to be proactive in planning and preparing for events that we hope will never happen. Pampa ISD considers students, teachers, administration and law enforcement, all strategic partners, all with specific roles, each playing their part in planning and implementation of school safety protocols. Pampa ISD’s Emergency Operation Plan consists of ongoing training, drilling, and exercising, coordinating with state and local partners, ongoing assessments and the establishment of personnel dedicated to safety and security. Please contact us with your concerns and ideas at: keeppampasafe@pampaisd.net Or visit: http://www.pampaisd.net/safeschools
www.pampaisd.net/safeschools • keeppampasafe@pampaisd.net Explore Pampa ISD • 59
Pampa Independent School District
Family and Community Engagement In Pampa, Texas, much like many cities and towns across the state and nation, our school district is the heartbeat of the community. The stakeholders in the school district are the pulse, made up of parents, community partners, business leaders, board members, teachers, administrators, staff and students. The Pampa ISD Family and Community Engagement (FACE) program is built on the philosophy that collaborating and maximizing all of our resources will best support, develop, and inspire our children to fulfill their life-long potential. We do this by building partnerships that pro-actively anticipate needs, respond to concerns, honor contributions, and inspire aspirations. We share the responsibility of creating the conditions for, allocating resources for, and making decisions that will ensure the academic, physical, and social-emotional wellness and success of the whole child.
Family & Community Partnerships
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Family Focus Forums
School/Family partnerships are crucial to student success. It is our goal to provide parents and families with the tools to encourage student success. Periodic forums are designed to connect parents and schools for the purpose of collaborative communication and educational growth. Together we strive to create safe learning environments for our children. Topics such as Bullying, School Safety, Drugs/Alcohol, FAFSA College Aid, Health and Wellness, Student Educational Support (study skills, grades), and an annual Back to School Bash providing school supplies, vision and hearing checks, etc. are some of the strategies designed to partner with families in Pampa ISD.
Academic Partnerships
The annual Educational Showcase is sponsored by the FACE department and provides a snapshot of student learning to parents and community. Each year over 2000 people fill the halls of Pampa High School collaborating with students and teachers on various projects. This year featured a digital scavenger hunt that connected students with professionals in our community.
VIPS (Volunteers In Pampa Schools)
VIPS is the heartbeat of the FACE program in PISD. It partners parents, families, and the community with schools to support student and staff specific needs. VIPS can volunteer in the following areas: P Parental Involvement (Classroom volunteer, field trip sponsors) or Partnerships with Schools (Adopt a School program) L Learning Support (mentors, tutoring, reading support) A Appreciating students/staff (special events, notes, service activities) N Navigating College/Career Success (career fair, business/trade shadowing)
Student Ambassadors
The Student Ambassador program has over 70 students ranging from 5th grade to 12th grade who represent each Pampa ISD campus. Students apply for the program and then are selected based on essays, grades, and recommendations of teachers/principals. During the year, Student Ambassadors receive training on important leadership skills and are given the opportunity to put those skills to use. Pampa ISD Student Ambassadors have served at Region 16 events in Amarillo for public school leaders across the Panhandle, partnered with local businesses, led assemblies on their campus, served as greeters and waiters for Teacher of the Year and awards banquets, and have been spokespersons for a variety of events.
“There is no substitute for a strong, supportive relationship between family and school… the success of our children depends on it.” —Kyle and Kayla Parnell, Pampa ISD Parents and VIPS Business Partners, Larry Baker Plumbing
Business/Community Partnerships
Local businesses, civic organizations, and churches partner with Pampa ISD through encouraging VIP participation, donations of clothing and school supplies, mentoring/training partnerships for CTE classes, guest presenters in classrooms, and also support Pampa ISD through paid advertising in various activities throughout the school year. Through the partnership of organizations for events such as the Back to School Bash, we were able to provide over 800 backpacks and supplies to students.
Grant/Scholarship
While in the beginning stages, Pampa ISD is working to expand its grant/scholarship programs for students and teachers. The Pampa Education Foundation is managed independently from Pampa ISD but awards scholarships every year to teachers and to students.
# BACK TO
SCHOOL
BASH
#pampaproud
Pampa ISD firmly believes in the benefits of social media. A little more than 3 years ago, we began the #pampaproud campaign and could not have predicted the overwhelming response that we received. Our goal was to promote the positive things happening in our schools every day. Our staff is encouraged to post positive learning experiences and use this hashtag. We partnered with local businesses to provide coupons and free items for those who participate. Teachers, administrators, parents, students, businesses, and the community began to use the #pampaproud. It has united our community and built support for our schools.
Back to School Bash
Pampa ISDʼs Back to School Bash is a community wide event that draws several thousand students, parents and community members. Co-sponsored by Gray County First Responders, this festival style event features food, activities, and student/ community services. Students in need of immunizations, vision and hearing screenings and even haircuts for back to school, receive these services free of charge. Almost 30% of PISD students (800) received backpacks with school supplies donated by individuals, churches and businesses (2018). Principals and teachers greet attendees to help kick off the new school year. The Bash is a great way to form lasting relationships throughout the community.
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Project Lead the Way by
Molly Brinkley
62 • Explore Pampa ISD
PISD
As students continue to investigate their future goals, we strive to educate them regarding opportunities in the Science, Technology, Engineering, and Math (STEM) fields. Through Project Lead the Way (PLTW), students at Pampa Junior High School and Pampa High School have an opportunity to investigate these fields through project-based learning opportunities. PLTW is a partnership with the University of Texas at Tyler where students receive instruction through discovery and investigation. Students are empowered as problem solvers as they work through real world problems from the vantage point of an engineer, scientist, or mathematician. The courses engage students to collaborate with their peers and critically think about solutions. Pampa Junior High students have an opportunity to begin working with Automation and Robotics to learn about mechanical systems, energy transfer, machine automation, and computer control systems. Students are introduced to VEX Robotics to design, build, and program real-world objects such as traffic lights, toll booths, and robotic arms. Following the introduction to these various systems, they participate in the Design and Modeling class, using strategy and creativity to develop an invention applying what they learned in class. Projects this year have included building a toy for patients with cerebral palsy, a puzzle cube for patients with Amyotrophic Lateral Sclerosis (ALS), and developing an Ankle Foot Orthosis. Students must begin by researching and discovering the requirements for each project, as their design has to meet the needs
of the end user. Taking into consideration the needs of the patient during the design process, students enter notes and a detailed sketch of their invention in their journal before transferring the information into the program Sketch Up to build a 3D model. Once the design is finalized, students build a physical prototype. Jesus Bernal, an 8th grade student at Pampa Junior High, stated that he enjoyed the ALS cube design the most “because [he] enjoyed working with [his] team to create a design that would help a patient that has ALS. When designing the cube, we had to brainstorm ideas together and come up with tools that should be added to the cube that would potentially help a patient.” These courses are a perfect introduction to the skills necessary in a STEM field to build communication and creative thinking to solve problems. The junior high courses enable interested students to enter the engineering pathway at Pampa High School and continue this trajectory forward. Project Lead the Way courses align to the Engineering field and progressively challenges students more each year with increased rigor of yearlong courses at Pampa High School. Students begin their study with Introduction to Engineering Design (IED) uncovering the design process while applying mathematical calculations to science and engineering standards. Then, using specific design specifications and industry standards, students get hands-on experience designing projects like a new toy, or improving an existing product. Despite Explore Pampa ISD • 63
being an introductory course, students quickly incorporate calculations into designs such as building the longest bridge and developing a fling machine to launch specific materials with varying mass and density. Through Principles of Engineering (POE), students explore a broad range of engineering topics including mechanisms, strength of structure and materials, and automation. Learning to build and program from scratch is a basic component throughout this course. Students then apply what they know to take on challenges such as calculating and building a truss to meet specific load requirements, building a machine to lift a weight a specified height using a pre-determined amount of force, understanding hydraulic systems, and building an automatic sorting machine for recycling. Gissell Perez, a sophomore at Pampa High School, shared, “it can be hard at times, but I have learned a lot of new things. I have been in the PLTW program since 8th grade. PLTW helps you realize that math is not that easy, but it’s solvable.” Students gain a new understanding and purpose behind math used in day-to-day life with an engineering and scientific perspective. After Principles of Engineering, students may take Civil
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Engineering and Architecture. During this course, students learn important aspects of building along with site design and development. As a class, students apply what they know to design a commercial building to scale. Students have been involved in developing scale models for Habitat for Humanity, a shed, and an architect building. This year students listened to an engineer with Open Range share ideas about their projects to provide insight on the process from an engineer’s point of view. Students worked with Stuart Smith, Pampa ISD Director of Student Services, and Bill Hieronymus, Pampa ISD Transportation Supervisor, to design a new bus barn model. Students had to take into account the needs of the transportation department, types of equipment used, include areas to provide maintenance, and several other specific requirements for the department. Although the project is hypothetical, students had to take into account why and how each element would add to their overall project while aligning to local, state, and federal code requirements. As seniors, students who have completed the previous three courses, may take the Capstone class called Engineering Design and Development (EDD). This course involves students identifying a real-world chal-
lenge and then researching, designing, and testing a solution; ultimately presenting their unique solutions to a panel of engineers. Students work in teams on developing either an Anti-lock Braking System (ABS) for an older motor bike, a modern drum harness, a modular game controller, a redesigned floodgate system, a more reliable jeep top, or a mechanical rechargeable battery. Carter Sprinkle, a Senior at Pampa High School, shared that “It has been a great way for me to expose myself to the world of engineering and develop many useful technical skills such as coding and 3D modeling. The courses have allowed me to explore different disciplines of engineering, which will help me decide what field I wish to study in college.” Students who complete all four courses are far more prepared for entering a STEM field and are well prepared to begin college level engineering courses. In addition to providing course content for students, Project Lead the Way has a robust program for teacher education. The teacher preparation is completed during the summer prior to teaching any Project Lead the Way course. During one to two weeks of intensive training, the teachers will learn the content and practices for the upcoming year, including knowledge of all the units of study and where student misconceptions may arise. Project Lead the Way’s Professional Development is a dynamic learning experience for teachers focused on robust and flexible instructional support, on-demand resources, and a close-knit community of collaboration with fellow educators. The Project Lead the Way program has brought a heightened awareness of the STEM fields into the classroom. Students who complete one or more courses will have an opportunity to learn what it takes to create, analyze, annotate, and examine their thought processes through real world applications. Students build both knowledge and skills to think critically and create innovations that often take collaboration and perseverance.
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Are We Future Ready?
By: Kelsi Hargrove
Have you ever sat down and asked a kindergartener what they want to be when they grow up? Of course, you get the silly answers, like I want to be a princess or a superhero, but many say things like, I want to be a policeman or a firefighter, or even a teacher. I have to ask myself, is it ever too early to get kids thinking about their future and what they want to be when they grow up? To me, the answer is no. After months of preparation, Austin Elementary held its first ever career fair on November 16, 2018. We hosted more than 30 different individuals from various careers. We had everything from a car salesman to an attorney to wind turbine technicians and everything else in between. The career fair ran during the afternoon and students
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in grades two through five rotated through three careers of their choosing. Students in grades kindergarten and first were able to dress up as what they wanted to be when they grew up, and three presenters came to their classrooms to talk about their careers. Presenters had flexibility in what they wanted to talk about. Some created Power Points, while others brought in equipment, such as physical therapist Kimberlea Moore, to demonstrate what they do every day in their jobs. One staff member said, “The students were all engaged, the entire time. True learning was taking place.” Bringing in speakers allowed the students to see what they can become one day. Kale Dame, a fourth-grade student said, “This was the best day! We have to do it again next year.” This is just the beginning. We have to keep kids talking about their future. If we truly want to graduate students with purpose, passion, and pride it has to start at the elementary level. Students must think about their life, not just one day from now, but five, ten, even fifteen years from now. The truth of the matter is that as educators, we are preparing our future generations for jobs that may not even exist yet. It is our job to show them pathways to achieve their dreams and goals.
Austin Elementary School
Kristal Floyd, Principal
Are We Future Ready?
YES WE ARE!
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Veterans Day Tribute, by Ashley Oglesby For 20 years, the Pampa Independent School District and community of Pampa have joined together to honor our veterans. In 1999, elementary music teacher Kay Pittman started a school music program at Travis Elementary. The program was dedicated to those who have served in the armed forces and those who continue to serve even still. In its early years, the program was performed by all kindergarten-fifth grade students at Travis Elementary, quickly becoming a great tradition in the community of Pampa. Veterans and their families look forward to this day once a year and many come year after year to share in this special time. After being performed solely by Travis Elementary for many years, the leadership at PISD expressed a desire for all of our schools to be a part of this great experience,
rather than each trying to do its own program. The decision was made to combine 300 fourth graders from all four elementary schools to perform the program at the M.K. Brown Convention Center in Pampa every year. The planning for the PISD Veterans Day tribute begins the summer before the program and involves many different people and a great deal of time. The elementary music teachers and veterans’ tribute committee decide on a program and set list, as well as a theme for each year. The program has always involved many people from the Pampa community. Some community members perform solos alongside the students; many others assist in the fundraising or even the set up and tear down of the program. It takes an entire team of people working together to make this program a success. Pampa Independent School District is so grateful for the Pampa organizations and businesses who donate funds annually to continue this special program in honor of our veterans. One of the ways the funds are used is for a reception immediately following the program to honor veterans and their families. This is a special time for the veterans and families to mingle and catch up with one another. A unique aspect of the reception is the wall of honor. This is a large display of veterans of the Pampa community. Each veteran has a picture and information along with it to indicate their branch and years of service in the Armed Forces. In 2018, the number of veterans listed on the wall of honor was up to 1000! The Pampa Independent School District students who are involved in this program are greatly impacted by the knowledge gained throughout this experience. As students learn the songs in the program, the elementary music teachers take time to teach and discuss the
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meaning behind each one. We share personal experiences, as well as the history of the veteran community and Veterans Day as a whole. Some of the classic patriotic songs the students learn year after year are “God Bless America,” “God Bless the USA,” and of course the “Star-Spangled Banner.” Our students have also had opportunities to hear stories from local veterans, as well as write letters to thank them for their service. The PISD Veterans Day tribute has become a staple in our community and one we can be incredibly proud of for years to come.
Pampa ISD Wins Awards!
Former Robert E. Lee coaches Dick Dunham, Steve Porter and Mark Bowan were present for the 2018-2019 Veterans Program.
Pampa ISD is proud to announce the receipt of 5 awards at the 2019 Texas School Public Relations Association Conference. Awards received were: Gold Star, Pampa ISD Website Gold Star, Teacher of the Year Banquet program Gold Star, Teacher of the Year Video, Travis Elementary Silver Star, Explore magazine Silver Star, Pampa ISD Recruiting Brochure Thanks to Jana Williamson, HR/Family and Community Engagement Coordinator and to Robert Forester, Pampa ISD's Graphic Designer for the great job of conceptualizing and creating graphic assets that promote Pampa ISD to the community. These awards demonstrate that Pampa ISD ranks well against larger school districts in the state for promotion and community engagement.
Graphic Design forestergraphic.com Thank you PISD, for allowing me to be a part of another great issue of PISD's Explore Magazine. —Robert S. Forester 70 • Explore Pampa ISD
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H J and Evelyn Johnson were part of what has been called the Greatest Generation. When Hojo [nickname] returned from Europe and his service in WW II, he and Evelyn married and began a family which was in many ways similar to the Cleaver family of “Leave it to Beaver”. H J worked for Cabot Machinery division for 45 years and Evelyn worked for the Cabot Carbon Black division for 35 years. Both were very involved in the community, loyal to their employer, Cabot, dedicated to First Baptist Church and completely supportive of the school system in Pampa. Their story begins approximately 90 years ago when HJ Johnson moved to Pampa and entered elementary school. A few years later, his future wife, Evelyn Mae Morehead started her education at Pampa’s Woodrow Wilson Elementary School. So began a ninety year, four generation relationship with the Pampa school system that continues to this day. A total of 19 members of the HJ Johnson family have attended school in Pampa. [Not including H J and Evelyn's 7 siblings and 5 nieces and nephews, who are also PHS graduates] 16 members of HJ Johnson’s immediate family members have graduated from Pampa High School. Three students of their fourth generation are currently students in Pampa schools. 72 • Explore Pampa ISD
Education was a core value and central focus for the Johnsons. All of the 14 family members (Evelyn and HJ’s children, spouses, and grandchildren) who have graduated from PHS have also graduated from college. (Their three other grandchildren who did not attend Pampa schools are also college graduates) In addition to the 17 college degrees, many have earned graduate degrees (a PhD, a DDS, and six masters degrees). Evelyn and HJ were not able to attend college themselves because of life circumstances, but they were determined that all their children, grandchildren and great grandchildren would have the opportunity to attend college. Having 100 percent of the family obtain college degrees fulfilled a lifelong goal for Evelyn and HJ. These academic successes could not have been achieved without the excellence and commitment of PISD. HJ and Evelyn were big supporters of Pampa schools. They could see the benefits of the fine education their children were receiving. They were thrilled that so many of their children and grandchildren were getting such a good educational foundation through PISD. Pampa schools allowed the Johnson family to excel at college level work because they were academically prepared. They knew how to study, how to write, and how to communicate. A 100 percent college graduation rate in one family does not happen by chance. It can only happen through a combination of strong family support and excellent educational preparation.
The educational background from PISD and the respective colleges has enabled the Johnson family to succeed. All have established successful and meaningful careers. Carletta has traveled the world helping companies develop their leadership to create organizations where people can thrive. Mary Beth has built an honored and highly respected business in interior design. Jay has had a successful career as a dentist in Pampa and has received many honors. Janis is both a rancher and a respected teacher in Pampa. The next generation are all active in their careers, doing interesting work. (To name a few careers: a registered nurse, an executive coach, an energy commodities trader, two interior designers, a software designer, a petroleum landman, and a teacher.) The second and third generations of the family have continued their involvement in PISD. Jay served on the Pampa school board for 16 years and has served as president. Both Jay and Mary Beth have been inducted into the Pampa Harvester Hall of Fame. Janis works for PISD as the Dyslexia Coordinator. Jay's daughter, Laura Allen, currently teaches at Pampa Junior High. Linda Johnson was a teacher at Woodrow Wilson. Being a student in Pampa was not only about the academics. “We had many activities to choose from, including athletic programs, student government, music programs and many extra-curricular activities. Those opportunities gave us chances to lead and to build relationships. Our teachers took a personal interest in us and helped us find our passions. We were encouraged to be involved. We participated in student council, track, tennis, football, basketball, baseball, softball, volleyball, cross-country the yearbook, the school newspaper, National Honor Society, Junior Classical League, Key Club, Show Choir, Future Farmers of America, Future Teachers of Amer-
ica, musicals, cheerleading and work/study programs. You name it and you could probably find a Johnson involved somewhere. Students in our family had the opportunity to travel to New York, Boston, Los Angeles, London and many other places of interest. The list could go on and on.” Reflecting on their years of schooling brought back many special memories of good times spent in Pampa schools. Carletta Johnson Taylor remembers being an extremely shy first grader and afraid to talk. Her teacher understood the need for that little girl to find her voice and worked with her everyday to get her to speak up. Because of that teacher, Carletta went from not being able to talk in school to being a speaker on the world stage in leadership. Mary Beth Johnson Raffferty remembers waking up every morning to the sounds of the high school band practicing. Several of the family commented on the pride we felt in our hearts every time we heard the band play The Harvester Fight Song. Jay mentioned the outstanding teachers who made certain their students were prepared for the next step in life. We all remember Inez Clubb for making sure her students paid attention to current events; a practice we all still do. BUT Jay says the best thing about PHS was meeting his wife, Linda. Janis remembers the many opportunities all of us were given. Even though we were from a small town and a small high school, we were all able to make the transition to big universities because our educational foundation was strong. “I wouldn’t trade the blessings of growing up in Pampa for anything in the world! My days at Pampa High School will always be so special to me…Great teachers who equipped me for a successful college experience and more. Memories with friends… both in academics and extracurricular activities that will last a lifetime! An even bigger recent blessing has been becoming a teacher at Pampa Junior High. I have the opportunity to help shape young lives the way my teachers did.” Laura Johnson Allen Jaclyn Spearman Street noted, “My upbringing in the Pampa schools had a large impact on me and my accomplishments. Sports were always a huge part of my time growing up in Pampa. Many of my coaches pushed me to become a leader and hard worker. I was taught how to build communication skills and how to work with my peers. These Explore Pampa ISD • 73
skills made an easy transition into playing collegiate volleyball, graduating from college and becoming a registered nurse.” Jared Spearman said, “The most important impact that PISD had on me had to be the teachers who taught me beyond what was required, and who taught me to never stop learning, even when my formal education is done.” “Growing up in a small town like Pampa with a class of about 235 and being involved in school activities gave me the perspective that I had 234 friends. I felt I should know something about and care about everyone around me. My school experience instilled a sense of valuing and participating in community that I still appreciate in my adult life.” Anna Johnson Jones
son Jones, 2004 (her husband Adam Jones, 2002), Janis Johnson Spearman, PHS ‘77 (her husband Jay Spearman, ‘76) Janis's children, Jared Spearman, 2002 (his wife, Lindsay Langford Spearman, 2001), Jordan Spearman 2003 and Jaclyn Spearman Street 2005 Laura and Cullen Allen's children are now attending PISD schools: Clark Allen class of 2023, Graham Allen class of 2026, and Nash Allen class of 2031.
All the family members remembered what it felt like to see the whole community involved in the school activities. It did not matter how cold or how far it was, everyone turned out to follow the Harvester teams. The Johnson graduates do not feel their family was different from their peers who were attending Pampa schools. Each could name many families who had similar experiences and successes after graduating from Pampa High School. Pampa schools have prepared and continue to prepare students for success and a variety of careers. Education is the bedrock of democracy and PISD has for many years contributed to that solid foundation for the continuing legacy of prepared graduates - who could be a part of that next – “Greatest Generation.” The 16 who graduated from Pampa High School are: HJ Johnson, ‘38, Evelyn Morehead Johnson, ‘40, Dr. Carletta Johnson Taylor, ‘65. Mary Beth Johnson Rafferty ’67, Dr Jay Johnson, ‘69, (his wife Linda Brumley Johnson, ‘70), Jay and Linda's children, Laura Johnson Allen, ‘96 (her husband, Cullen Allen, ‘96), Anna John74 • Explore Pampa ISD
H J Johnson, ‘38 Evelyn Morehead Johnson, ‘40
Student Editors These PHS English students helped edit articles. Thank you for your hard work!
Sheylah Arreola
Paige Richards
Rylee Parks
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As educators, we consistently continue honing our craft to enrich the
learning experiences of our students. Throughout the district, our educators and staff have opportunities to attend trainings on a variety of topics that continue to grow our knowledge base. As we advance our understanding of the digital age, we want to bring our experiences to our students by focusing on technology use to prepare them for college, career, or military readiness. We wanted to develop a venue where teachers or staff could share their knowledge in a platform that would cross grade levels and content areas and target the use of a digital format. Using one of our professional development days at the start of the school year was the perfect opportunity to develop our own instructional technology mini-conference which we held at Pampa High School.
Tech Yes!
CONFERENCE By Molly Brinkley
Director of Instructional Technology
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We devised a team of teachers who incorporate technology in their classroom on a regular basis to be part of the committee. This committee embarked on brainstorming ideas for the mini-conference including creating the title “TechYES!” for the inaugural event. Although the committee shared many ideas, we wanted to keep the first year somewhat simple and allow for growth over time. Teachers across the district applied to present either one or two sessions. Staff from both the Technology Department and Curriculum Department also applied to share their knowledge for the entire day. We provided 15 options during each session, totaling 90 possible topics for teachers to attend. Sessions spanned grade levels and content areas to create an experience for all teachers PK-12.
The day of the event consisted of six 45-minute sessions with a break in between each session. During the time between sessions, we had a “Goose Chase” that teachers participated in across the high school campus. A Goose Chase is a digital scavenger hunt with tasks to complete. Tasks ranged from ideas such as “post a video explaining one new tool you learned in a session” to “take a picture of your favorite presenter and write a description about why they are your favorite.” In addition, the Pampa ISD Student Ambassadors were facilitating stations in the cafeteria that teachers could participate in during the breaks. While the day focused on learning instructional technology tools, we wanted opportunities to build relationships among the teachers as well. The day concluded with everyone gathering in the cafeteria for a “Demo Slam” where seven teachers competed with 2 minutes each to share their top instructional technology tools. The audience voted on the winner, who won a prize. Due to the generosity of several companies in Pampa and some of our instructional technology vendors, we gave away prizes to teachers who competed in the Goose Chase, as well as those randomly selected after completing a survey about their experience at TechYES! Our vendors also provided some additional prize donations given out during sessions on their topic. We are very grateful for all the donations from both our local community and our vendors. While the day was full for teachers, it was mostly full of laughter, excitement, and learning.
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! C L P o t come
Pampa Learning Center By Carrie Williams, Director of PLC
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e are proud to offer an alternative setting for high school students in Pampa. Learning occurs in many different ways, and students can be successful adults in a variety of venues. A self-paced curriculum enables flexible, individualized progress for our students. Whether a student needs additional time for remediation or an enhanced experiences in order to reach personal academic goals, self-pacing is a valuable tool for student success. Our goal is to allow students to progress while providing needed resources and teacher assistance. Students enrolled at Pampa High School may apply to come to PLC. The application process begins with Pampa ISD Social Worker, Suzanne Pingel. While students apply to come to PLC for many different reasons, we are proud of our program, happy to build positive relationships with our families, and continuously mentor students in making a plan for lifelong learning and successful careers. We strive to assist our students in finding their own definition of success and happiness. In addition to the students requesting to attend PLC, the entire staff has requested to be here. Our success is due in great part to the dedication and genuine love shown by these master educators. Beginning with the 2019-2020 school year, PLC will be located on the 3rd floor of Pampa High School. In addition to the availability of dual credit courses through Clarendon College Pampa campus, our students will now have access to career and technology courses housed at PHS. Cosmetology, welding, industrial maintenance, health sciences, and more will enable our students to possibly obtain college credit or gain a certification while still in high school. PLC students also receive assistance with interest inventories, college applications, and financial aid. We are excited about the wealth of resources available to our students and staff through our relocation to the PHS campus. PLC will remain a beacon of hope for students who desire a non-traditional setting and instruction, with a separate, individualized program within the larger campus. Bright Beginnings is a state-accredited daycare specifically for the babies of teen parents. In addition to academic services during maternity leave, this program is available in order to keep students in school, ensuring their goal of achieving a high school diploma. This is at no cost to students. Children of Pampa ISD teachers are accepted at Bright Beginnings for a fee if there is available space. Children from newborn to 3 years of age experience a curriculum built specifically for their developmental needs. The caring and experienced staff love these babies! We are very proud of our success stories and welcome a visit or phone call for more information. Please like our Facebook page and follow the great things happening at PLC!
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Pampa Learning Center
Carrie Williams,
PLC Director & PHS Asst. Principal
master art - no shadow
master art - with shadow
By Jana Williamson You are a high school senior and the day that you have dreamed about for the last twelve years is finally here. You are about to graduate and officially be “on your own” as an adult. You’ve received an awesome education from Pampa ISD. You are ready to conquer the world and experience LIFE at its best! However, it doesn’t take long until you are faced with some real-life challenges and real-life questions: • • • • • •
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“How do I rent an apartment or house?” “How do I change a tire? What do they mean by changing the oil?” “How do I have more month left at the end of my money? What is “savings?” “How do I cook something that is not frozen or fried so I don’t get sick all of the time?” “Do I have to get a job? How do I create a resume and interview?” “What happens when I get sick and can’t call mom?”
How? What? When? Who? Pampa High School
Hugh Piatt, Principal
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Mike Ruff, CFP
Pampa ISD’s mission is to have students graduate who are compassionate, competent, confident, and FUTURE-READY. Being future-ready includes the basic life skills necessary for life as an adult. It has become trendy in recent years to describe these life skills by the word “adulting”. Some students are taught some of these “adulting” things from family while growing up, but a large percentage are not! With this purpose in mind, Pampa ISD hosted its first Life 101 day for our 2018-2019 seniors. Life 101 was a day packed with interactive classes on real life lessons for our seniors. Pampa ISD, in partnership with local business, led classes on car care, money matters, job ready skills, CPR, basic home maintenance, and nutrition/ mental health. Students learned skills such as how to change a tire, eating healthy while at college, credit and checking accounts, saving for retirement, interview skills and creating a resume, and taking care of your living space. Our businesses and staff that sponsored and led with this event include:
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This first year of Life 101 was very successful and we look forward to next year expanding the program even further to include more businesses and a live-action game to help students apply the principals of living on a budget.
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Pampa Junior High School
BE THE GOOD By Jana Williamson and Megan Horn
For the 2018-2019 school year, Pampa Junior High adopted the motto, “Be the Good”, for the purpose of inspiring staff, students, and family members to impact their school and make a difference in others’ lives on a daily basis. Megan Horn, 8th Grade ELA teacher, was one teacher who made a huge impact on her students and influenced the overall climate at PJHS. We caught up with Ms. Horn and caught a small glimpse of the difference that one person can make. What are some of the things you have done to encourage students on your campus? “Middle schoolers tend to be highly energetic, socially evolving, and emotionally unpredictable—but those are the very tendencies that I love about them. I am a witness to the day-to-day emotional rollercoaster many students experience while they are trying to deal with academic and social pressures. I look for ways to encourage and motivate students academically and socially; creating large, colorful posters with catchy and inspirational quotes has become a way to remind students in a non-threatening way to make sound and “right” choices—to do the right thing. My hope is to create a positive and safe space of support and love for middle school students who may be struggling with lack of motivation, feelings of isolation, or who may need a positive influence.” What is the Great Kindness Challenge? “The Counselor's Office led the Great Kindness Challenge on our campus this year. I painted multiple posters with uplifting quotes to further encourage a culture of kindness, respect, and compassion. To help 82 • Explore Pampa ISD
Megan Horn, 8th Grade ELA teacher, inspiring the staff and students at PJHS.
Pampa Junior High School
Jamie Winborne, Principal
Decorating Doors for Christmas “Our main office serves as a hub on which all other activities revolve. During the Christmas season, I decorated the doors in our front office to help create a cheerful and welcoming atmosphere. Christmas is a season of hope, renewal, and reassurance—what better atmosphere to create in our school foyer and hallways?” Final Thoughts “I guess the bottom line is when I encourage others, it comes back to me ten-fold. Creating the posters and writing the letters fills my mind and heart with positive focus—our thoughts have power: Whatever is noble, whatever is right, whatever is pure, whatever is lovely, whatever is admirable—if anything is excellent or praiseworthy—think about such things. —Philippians 4:8"
boost student morale during testing season, I focused on placing motivational quotes around the campus for students to read throughout the day. Students need to be reassured that we do not define their value by their test scores—they are so much more than any exam could ever measure. In the midst of middle school craziness and pressure, I hope they are able to take a moment and reflect on what is good—around them and in themselves. Kids need to know they are the light that brightens our day.” What is one thing you did that made a huge impact in your classroom and with parents? “Handwritten letters to my students serve as a reminder of how they are special to me. The letters serve as a personal communication and as a reminder that my experience in their life is not limited to the lessons of my classroom; I want to give them affirmation of their ability to achieve greatness and to be "the good" in the world. They are more than the grade they receive on a book report or on STAAR.” What are some ideas that you have implemented to build staff morale? “In our mailroom I created a space for staff to complement one another (Staff Shout Outs). So often, teachers get caught up in the manic pace of school life and get sucked in to the never-ending busyness of teaching. This “nose-to-the grind” mentality can cause us to miss opportunities to encourage one another—and to receive it. We all need a pat on the back—especially by our peers; after all, who knows better what we are experiencing than other teachers. Appreciation and teacher morale go hand-in-hand.”
One of the hundreds of post cards of encouragement (top) Horn wrote to students during the 2018-19 school year. Also samples of the many inspirational hand-drawn signs Horn placed in the halls of Pampa Junior High School.
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Get to Know Superintendent
TANYA LARKIN Region 16 Superintendent of the Year
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Photo Compliments of Lacee McClendon
By Nathan Maxwell
Mrs. Larkin was recently named the Region 16 Superintendent of the Year. We are honored and blessed that she represents Pampa ISD and the Pampa community. Mrs. Tanya Larkin was named Superintendent of Pampa ISD in 2015. She began her career as a teacher in Shamrock in 1994. She has worked for Pampa ISD since 1998, serving in a variety of capacities, including: teacher, federal programs director, curriculum coordinator, elementary principal, high school principal, executive director of curriculum and instruction, associate superintendent, and superintendent. I sat down with Mrs. Larkin to hear more about the passion behind what she does for Pampa ISD every day. Here’s what she had to say:
Tell us a little about your background and what inspired you to become an educator? I find inspiration from the students every day. Their love of learning and pursuit to discover their gifts and talents is a joy to watch. But, when I think of my original inspiration for becoming an educator, I really have to talk about my “WHY”. My “why” began many years ago when I was a little girl growing up in Shamrock, Texas. I was blessed with wonderful, loving, hard-working parents who valued my education. My father, did not graduate from high school and (now I know) had a reading difficulty. Although he was unable to experience the benefits of a full, rich secondary education, he was adamant that my sister and I attend school and do our very best. He worked hard, really hard... doing everything from harvesting wheat, mowing the highways, and being an auto-repairman. I don’t remember if he had the same job for more than a year at a time, but I always remember him working and doing his very best to provide for our family. We had some lean times for sureboy I could tell you some stories. But, most of the time, we had what we needed and sometimes, we had what we wanted. My mother did graduate from high school, but did not often work outside of the home unless things were desperate. My father was a proud man and that was a different time and place. Later on, in her 40's, she eventually attended college and obtained her Master's Degree. That is a great story I will share with you sometime. My mother also insisted on us going to school. I remember clearly both of my parents at numerous times during my childhood saying, “You girls get your education so you don’t have to live like this”... that has always stuck with me. So, going to school was the norm. While at school, I was blessed with amazing, caring, kind teachers who insisted on my very best. They knew I was from a home that would be described today as economically disadvantaged,
but they did not lower their expectations, not at all. They held me to a high standard for learning. Yes, they also provided me with clothes, food, tuition money, and emotional support in some very difficult times. Our home burned down when I was 12 and my father was murdered when I was 14, so there were plenty of opportunities for my teachers to come to my rescue, and they did! However, the best and most important gift they gave me was having high expectations for learning. So, that’s my "WHY!" The events in my life, my parents, and my teachers led me to become the educator I am today. That is what I want to create for every student. A school system that is a safe, caring, supporting place where students can become their best self through high expectations of learning and opportunities to find their strengths. Not all students need the same thing from their teachers, but they all need something. Regardless of their financial and family situations, they all need high expectations in a climate of love and support. Describe the motto #PampaProud, what does this mean to you? I love living and working in Pampa! Our community is a pearl in the Panhandle and I want everyone to know that. We have some of the most kind, generous, talented, and smart people in Pampa and we should be proud of that fact. We developed this hashtag to promote the great things going on in our school and our community. Communities and the schools within them are inter-dependent in that one cannot be successful without the other. The citizens in our town support the students, teachers, principals, and staff in every way. We in Pampa ISD know that our community is behind us and we realize that we are educating the future leaders and business owners of Pampa. The #PampaProud is a common language we all can share, promote, and support. Photo Compliments of Lacee McClendon
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What do you love most about leading 500 employees and 3500 students? That’s an easy question--- I love the people. Our staff works hard and cares deeply about the work they do for the students in our classrooms. I have made many mistakes throughout my leadership journey, but the one thing I have learned that is an undeniable truth is that you cannot have a healthy successful organization if you do not have quality humans. We are indeed blessed in Pampa ISD! Would you share with us about your family and other interests outside of school? I could not do what I do and would not be where I am today without my faith and my family. My husband, Dustin, has supported me in every way and understands that my passion for being an educator is not a job—it is a mission for me. I am so blessed that we both love Jesus and he also believes in this mission and is always willing to help. My son, Brody (18) who just graduated from Pampa High School and daughter, Sydney (14) who will attend PHS in the fall are my pride and joy. They remind me every day to never pass up an opportunity to be happy and find the joy in everything around you. I think they have taught me more about life than I have taught them. As far as interests outside of school, I enjoy following my kids around watching them play their sports, perform on stage, and just hanging out together as a family. I must confess that I am a lover of learning. So, I am currently working on my dissertation and should finish my doctoral work later this year.
Photo Compliments of Lacee McClendon
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H
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Around the World
Visions of travel and experience landed Lennart Schuemann deep in Harvester Nation. This young man from Hamburg, Germany decided many months before his early August arrival to call Pampa High School home. Several exchanges between Lennart and his host family, the Weinettes, prepared him for Texas life. Twenty-four hours upon landing he began his journey as a true Harvester walking to the field house proudly joining the football team. He certainly does not know how to slow down, and quickly became a thriving example of a Harvester. Lennart played both JV and Varsity Football, Varsity Soccer and Golf.
In addition to athletics, his academic pursuits are equally inspiring. Lennart was an active member of the Titans of Talk Debate team competing in Foreign Extemporaneous Speaking, World School Debate and Impromptu. The World School Debate Team on which he participated is the first from Pampa to qualify for Texas Forensic Association (TFA) state. In other spectrums of forensics, he competed in UIL Persuasive Speaking and was a member of the Current Events Teams. Most recently he placed first within in the State for 4A competitors in the Best of Texas Online Contest. In the little spare time Lennart had, you would find him on the theatre stage. He played Dr. Scott in the Great Pretender’s Fall per-
S
formance of John Lennon and Me and as Robin Starveling / Moon in this year’s One Act Play, A Mid Summer Night’s Dream. Apart from school, Lennart could be found at home watching television with his Host family, or hanging out with his new American friends. He stated many times that leaving Pampa was one of the most difficult things he has had to do in his life. The opportunity to host exchange students has not only been a privilege for the international student that comes to Pampa, but it has also become a wonderful educational and social learning experience for Pampa ISD students. Lennart Schuemann, Exchange Student from Hamburg, Germany
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Lamar’s Backstage Bobcats 21st Century Leaders By Ashley Oglesby
Pampa Independent School District strives to give students an opportunity to learn and practice quality leadership that will be of great benefit throughout life. We also believe the best leaders are those who serve others. Martin Luther King, Jr. once said, “Life’s most urgent question is, ‘What are you doing for others?” The Backstage Bobcats are a select group of students at Lamar Elementary School who are developing into servant leaders equipped to positively impact not only their school, but also their homes and community. Since the inception of Backstage Bobcats in 2015, 5th grade students at Lamar have been given the opportunity to be a part of this leadership team and we are seeing wonderful results. Our initial classes of Backstage Bobcats have advanced into Pampa Junior High and Pampa High School and are becoming outstanding learners, campus leaders, and hard-working members of various extra-curricular activities such as campus academic clubs, fine arts, Student Ambassadors and athletics. Several different qualities are evaluated when selecting the Backstage Bobcats each Spring for the following school year. Interested students completing 4th grade are invited to submit an application, which includes a brief essay of why they want to participate; each application must also come with a recommendation from the student’s teacher. Students must have shown a commitment to their schoolwork, desire to set a positive example for younger students, and have a desire to serve the school. After being accepted onto the team, these 5th graders
88 • Explore Pampa ISD
attend weekly after-school Backstage Bobcat meetings during which they participate in team-building games, discuss the qualities of servant leadership, and students are challenged to think of ways to set a good example and display kindness to the others in the school. Throughout the school year, Backstage Bobcats are given various opportunities to practice servant leadership. They have been able to serve Lamar Elementary School in many ways including reading to preschool classes, building props for programs, and helping to set up and coordinate activity stations on Field Day. Recently, the students spent time during the weekly meeting to write encouraging notes to our teachers, custodians, and administrative staff. Beyond the walls of the school, Backstage Bobcats put their social skill training into practice by serving as greeters at Pampa ISD events such as the PHS Honors Banquet and Pampa ISD Teacher of the Year Banquet, both held annually at M.K. Brown. They can also be seen each August welcoming new district employees at the annual Pampa ISD New Employee Breakfast. Backstage Bobcats provide a wonderful first impression of the quality of students found in Pampa ISD as they smile, look adults in the eye, speak politely, shake hands, open doors, and perform other servant leadership tasks for these employees, many of whom are having their first encounter with our community! Backstage Bobcats are always open to new opportunities to serve others. If you know of opportunities in the Pampa community worthy of consideration, please contact the Lamar Elementary School office.
Lamar Elementary School
Troy McClendon, Principal
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As each new school year approaches, most students are excited about the promise the year holds. As students head back to school, there are many things that must be purchased, and tasks completed to make sure that they will be ready for the upcoming year. Making necessary preparations can often put families in a bind due to financial constraints. While this is not an entirely new matter, it appears to be an increasing concern for families as well as classroom teachers that desire for all students to begin the year on a level playing field. In 2017, Pampa ISD began to address this need by providing an avenue for students to acquire the needed supplies for the new school year. Staff from Pampa ISD, churches, businesses, first-responders, and civic organizations joined together to resource students with school supplies in a huge way through what we hoped would be the first of many annual events to be called the “Back to School Bash!â€? Churches and businesses began to collect school supplies to fill backpacks and by the first week of August we were ready to make that happen. Over 800 backpacks were donated through the generosity of a local education grant. Over 50 volunteers with the SnakPak4Kids organization filled the Pampa ISD warehouse and filled 800 backpacks in 30 minutes! As the date of the Back to School Bash approached, all 800 backpacks were delivered and staged for the event to be held at Pampa High School on August 17th. 90 • Explore Pampa ISD
The goal of the Back to School Bash was to kick-off the new year with a fun event for everyone in the community. This event would celebrate our students, provide supplies to begin the year, provide free immunizations, connect students and families with resources available within our community, and partner first-responders with students in fun and interactive ways. Some of the events of the day included free backpacks and supplies, free immunizations, vision/ hearing screenings, child identification cards, face painting, snow cones, hot dogs, bounce houses, horseback riding, and water polo with the Hoover Fire Department. We could not have imagined the ways this would impact our community. An hour before the event was set to begin, over 300 families had arrived to wait in line to participate and acquire free supplies for their school-aged children. Student Ambassadors and Pampa ISD staff checked in families and handed out backpacks for over 3 hours; campus principals and teachers greeted excited students; and community members joined hands with Pampa ISD to make a huge impact in students’ lives. We are so grateful for all of our community partnerships.
The Back to School Bash is an exciting opportunity for students, staff, families, and our community. If you would be interested in partnering with us for this event, please contact Jana Williamson at 806-669-4700.
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PAMPA ISD
2019-2020 Calendar
Fall Semester 2019 JULY
S M T W T F S 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10 11 12 13 14 15 16 17 18 19 20 21 22 23 24 25 26 27 28 29 30 31
AUGUST
S M T W T F S 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10 11 12 13 14 15 16 17 18 19 20 21 22 23 24 [ 25 26 27 28 29 30 31
SEPTEMBER
S M T W T F S 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10 11 12 13 14 15 16 17 18 19 20 21 22 23 24 25 26 27 28 ] 29 30
Instructional Days 2019-2020 1st Six Weeks 8/20 to 9/27........ 28 Days 2nd Six Weeks 10/1 to 11/1........ 23 Days 3rd Six Weeks 11/5 to 12/20...... 29 Days 4th Six Weeks 1/7 to 2/14.......... 28 Days 5th Six Weeks 2/19 to 4/3.......... 28 Days 6th Six Weeks 4/6 to 5/21.......... 32 Days Fall Semester.......................... 80 Days Spring Semester..................... 88 Days Total Instructional Days.......... 168 Days Total Teacher Work Days........ 182 Days
S M T W T F S [ 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10 11 12 13 14 15 16 17 18 19 20 21 22 23 24 25 26 27 28 29 30 31
NOVEMBER
S M T W T F S 1 ] 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 [ 10 11 12 13 14 15 16 17 18 19 20 21 22 23 24 25 26 27 28 29 30
DECEMBER
S M T W T F S 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10 11 12 13 14 15 16 17 18 19 20 21 ] 22 23 24 25 26 27 28 29 30 31
Spring Semester 2020 JANUARY
S M T W T F S 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10 11 [ 12 13 14 15 16 17 18 19 20 21 22 23 24 25 26 27 28 29 30 31
FEBRUARY
S M T W T F S 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10 11 12 13 14 15 ] 16 17 18 19 20 21 22 [ 23 24 25 26 27 28 29
MARCH
S M T W T F S 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10 11 12 13 14 15 16 17 18 19 20 21 22 23 24 25 26 27 28 29 30 31
Student/Staff Holidays 2019
Stu d Sta ents ff
OCTOBER
Independence Day • 7/4 Labor Day • • 9/2 Professional Development • 9/30 Columbus Day • 10/14 Professional Development • 11/4 Thanksgiving • • 11/25-11/29 Christmas Break • 12/23-1/6 Christmas Break • 12/23-1/3
2020
MLK Day • Presidents Day • • Professional Development • Spring Break • • Spring Holiday • • Professional Development • Memorial Day • Bad Weather Makeup (If Needed)
1/20 2/17 2/18 3/16-3/20 4/13 4/14 5/25 5/26 & 5/27
Other Important Dates 2018-2018 First Day of School, Students 8/20/2019 Educational Showcase 10/28/2019 PHS Graduation 5/23/2020 Last Day of School, Students 5/21/2020 Staff Professional Development Days
8/12 to 8/16 • 9/30 • 11/4 • 1/20 • 2/18 • 4/14 5/26
Teacher Work Days
APRIL
S M T W T F S 1 2 3 4 ] 5 [ 6 7 8 9 10 11 12 13 14 15 16 17 18 19 20 21 22 23 24 25 26 27 28 29 30
MAY
S M T W T F S 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10 11 12 13 14 15 16 17 18 19 20 21 22 23 ] 24 25 26 27 28 29 30 31
❄❄
JUNE
8/19 • 1/6 • 5/22
Legend [ ] 6 Week Grading Period Begins/Ends S M T W T F S 1 2 3 4 5 6 Teacher Work Day (Staff Only) Professional Development (Staff Only) 7 8 9 10 11 12 13 Student and Staff Holiday 14 15 16 17 18 19 20 ❄ Bad Weather Makeup Day (Staff Only) 21 22 23 24 25 26 27 Student Early Release at 12:00 Student Testing Day 28 29 30 Educational Showcase Graduation
Board Approved 3/25/19
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Pampa ISD Hall of Fame
2018-2019 Hall of Fame Inductees Pampa ISD annually bestows it’s highest honors on individuals who have made outstanding contributions to their professions and community, committed themselves to advancing the values and goals of Pampa ISD, and ensured a better quality of life for future generations.
Todd Clement, Class of 1980 Todd Clement is also a 1980 Pampa High School graduate. While in junior high, he had already decided that he wanted to be a lawyer. His favorite classes at Pampa High School were History taught by the late Howard Graham and Government taught by Judge Richard Peet. After graduation, Mr. Clement attended Texas Tech University, and the Texas Tech School of Law where he graduated third in his class. After law school, Mr. Clement was selected to be a briefing attorney for the Texas Supreme Court. Thereafter, he went to work for a large Dallas law firm. After five years of defending personal injury cases, he realized that representing injured victims and their families was his lifeʼs calling. In 1995, he founded his own personal injury law firm. The Clement Firm specializes in truck crashes, construction accidents, alcohol over-service cases, and other cases involving catastrophic injuries or death. Mr. Clement has been named one of the best personal injury attorneys in Dallas, and has also been named a Texas Personal Injury Super Lawyer every year since 2009. He was selected as one of the top 100 Dallas/Fort Worth Super Lawyers for the last four years. Martindale Hubbell has given him the highest possible peer-reviewed ranking for 20 years. Mr. Clement has been involved as an officer and volunteer for the Texas Trial Lawyers Association for many years. He received the John Howie Spirit of Mentorship Award, and he was elected president of the 500 plus Dallas Trial Lawyers Association. The most well-known case Mr. Clement has handled is the “Affluenza” case, where he initially represented a man whose wife and daughter were killed by Ethan Couch. He later represented a teenager who was injured in the same crash. His prosecution of Ethan Couch and his parents was featured on an ABC 20/20 episode. Mr. Clementʼs pro bono work focuses on publicizing the dangers of driving while talking and texting on a cell phone. After representing the family of a mom and grandmother who were killed by a texting driver, he become a crusader for safety. He developed a speech, “Driving While Distracted”, to persuade businesses to ban cell phone use while driving. He speaks regularly on behalf of the National Safety Council, the National Highway Transportation Safety Board, the Texas Department of Transportation and other safety organizations nationwide. He also speaks to high school students about distracted driving. His efforts have been featured in The Washington Post, The Dallas Morning News, CBS This Morning, and NBC Nightly News. Mr. Clement was an invited speaker in favor of a texting ban at the Texas Legislature in 2015 and 2017, and he and other safety advocates were instrumental in its passage into law. Mr. Clement and his wife, Sandra, currently reside in Dallas, and have two children. 94 • Explore Pampa ISD
Glenna Bowman, Class of 1980 Glenna Bowman is a 1980 graduate of Pampa High School, where she graduated in the top 5% of her class, was active in choir and theatre, and was a member of the National Honor Society. Mrs. Bowman graduated from West Texas State University, and then moved to Austin to work as an intern at the Texas State Comptroller’s Office. Thereafter, she was offered a permanent position to help develop the state’s first Annual Financial Report. She earned her license as a Certified Public Accountant and continued her work developing and managing statewide projects. She served as the Chief Financial Officer for the Texas State Board of Public Accountancy, the Alcoholic Beverage Commission, and the Department of Agriculture. In 2012, Mrs. Bowman earned her Master of Accountancy degree from Texas State University, and was hired as an instructor to teach intermediate accounting. In 2014, Mrs. Bowman was named Administrator of the Year by the Texas State Agency Business Administrator's Association. After retiring from the state, Mrs. Bowman founded Sound Beacon Entertainment to produce music and live theatre. She is actively working on two original musical theatre works and has completed a children's Christmas musical. Mrs. Bowman and her business partners introduced a Professional Artist series to Austin audiences with their first show, UNSTOPPABLE! High school students worked on the production, alongside seasoned theater performers and technical crew members. In 2018, Sound Beacon presented its first public reading. Mrs. Bowman has been active in church for many years. She has served as a Sunday School Teacher, youth sponsor, youth choir director, worship director, and also served in various leadership positions. Mrs. Bowman has supported her community through a variety of organizations, including the Austin Battered Women's Shelter, LifeCare Pregnancy Services, Texas Alliance for Life, the Austin Food Bank, and Open Door Ministries. She has also served as Treasurer for the Travis County Republican Party, attended Republican conventions and served on various committees. Mrs. Bowman and her husband, Rick, currently reside in Austin, and have five children and six grandchildren.
Sheila Webb, Agent Las Pampas Square P. O. Box 2689 Pampa, Texas 79066
Office: (806) 669-3861 STATE FARM INSURANCE COMPANIES HOME OFFICES: BLOOMINGTON, ILLINOIS "Like a good neighbor, State Farm is there." ®
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Where Your 2017-2018 Tax Dollar Went
This illustrates how each dollar is divided and spent on the various student services and operating departments of Pampa ISD. These pennies depict rough percentages and are based on the 2017-2018 audited general operating and food service expenditures.
51¢
TEACHERS, INSTRUCTIONAL SUPPLIES AND INSTRUCTIONAL AIDS
4¢
EXTRA CURRICULAR ACTIVITIES & AFTER SCHOOL PROGRAMS
7¢
9¢
3¢
FACILITIES
2¢
TRANSPORTATION
2¢
FOOD SERVICES
SECURITY MONITORING & HEALTH SERVICES
3¢ UTILITIES
6¢
CURRICULUM & INSTRUCTIONAL STAFF DEVELOPMENT
4¢
4¢ DISTRICT LEVEL STAFF
PRINCIPALS AND ASSISTANT PRINCIPALS
GUIDANCE COUNSELORS
5¢ LIBRARY & SAFE
SECURE COMPUTER NETWORK
THE DOLLAR 96 • Explore Pampa ISD
DOING MORE Pampa ISD: Doing More with Less!
2017-2018 Audited General Operating and Food Service Expenditures
Instructional & Instructional Related Services.................. $18,877,983........ Teachers, Counselors, Curriculum, Extra Curricular Instructional & School Leadership....................................... 2,238,894........ Principals & Teacher Support Ancillary Services................................................................... 291,146 ....... Social & Health Services Student Support Services.................................................... 3,696,453........ Transportation, Food Services, Information Technology Administrative Support Services......................................... 1,416,390........ District Level Administration Non-student Support Services............................................ 4,619,045........ Facilities, Maintenance, Security, Community Services
2018-19 Tax Rate
Average Property Value per Student*
Maintenance & Operations - 1.0600 Debt Service - 0.26503 Total - 1.32503
PISD: 347,060 State Avg: 418,176
2017-18 Tax Rate
Per Pupil Expenditures*
Maintenance & Operations - 1.0400 Debt Service - 0.2691 Total - 1.3091
PISD: 9,204 State Avg: 9,503 *Source 2016-17 PEIMS Actual Financial Data Report
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The Pampa High School
Class of 1956 sponsors an annual essay contest. Inspired by ‘56 Ted Swindle’s description of the bronze Harvester Statue that resides in the rotunda of Pampa High School, this contest challenges participants to give their answer to the question...
2018 contest winner Jordan Littlefield pictured with Mr. Ted Swindle.
Who is this Pampa Harvester?
The Harvester By Jordan Littlefield, Class of 2019
W
e have gone through a change within the past couple of years, where the idea of school has shifted from a place of education and shelter to one of violence and fear. Every single day, we have seen the effects that violence has brought upon schools just like our own. Yet, as a school, we have persevered. This perseverance may be the only characteristic that can properly describe the entirety of our school. In the past, the ideal Harvester has been described as the star athlete, working for hours on end to bring home another medal for the school. The ideal Harvester was also the performer, practicing tirelessly for ten minutes in the spotlight. The ideal Harvester was the diligent student making the highest marks in class. Every person has their own meaning and purpose within the school, meaning that there is no single answer for what it means to be a Harvester. However, we all share one single characteristic: determination. Take a moment to think back to every Harvester essay you have heard before this one. Out of every single one that has been presented since this tradition started, not a single one mentioned a Harvester who gave up, who caved in to the pressures of school or life outside of these walls. We have all been given the option to give up, yet here we are. Look at the people around you and understand that these are the people you have grown up with. Whether you were born here and your family for generations before yourself, or moved here sometime during this year, you have still grown with them. No matter how much you might have hated coming to school every day, you cannot deny that these people had an important role in creating the “you” that you define yourself as. There are things that cannot be taught in school, instead given to us through our experience with our own peers. These people and the experiences you shared with them have made you a Harvester. The image of the Harvester must not be based on the qualities of a few, but rather the commonalities of all. We are as unique as we are Harvesters. Whether you are in band, choir, student council, athletics, theatre, debate, top of your class, everything on this list or nothing at all, you are still a Harvester at heart and always will be. No matter where you go in life, take this title and wear it proudly, knowing that you are the true meaning of a "Pampa Harvester."
Photo Courtesy Charla Shults Pics
98 • Explore Pampa ISD
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Serving those who serve our students.
Checking & Savings Loans, Vehicle, Mortgage, Personal Certificates of Deposit Online Banking Mobile Banking 2500 Perryton Pkwy Pampa, Texas 79066-0920 Phone: (806) 665-0057 Fax: (806) 665-0533
www.ptfcu-tx.com Federally Insured by NCUA