CELEBRATING
Our Stars! ACADEMIC EXCELLENCE RECEPTION LINDALE HIGH SCHOOL MAY 19, 2022 6:00 P.M.
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The Lindale ISD Education Foundation Welcomes You ...to the 12th Annual Academic Excellence Reception! It is our privilege to honor the top graduates, distinguished teachers and our "Honor Roll" winners from the Lindale Independent School District.
LINDALE ISD EDUCATION FOUNDATION: The Lindale Independent School District has long enjoyed a tradition of excellence. It is the desire of the Lindale ISD Education Foundation to support that tradition through establishing an organization that encourages and rewards innovation in the classroom both now and in the future.
Taxpayers are making every effort to meet the basic needs of students and to provide a quality education for all children. However, the Foundation seeks to provide educational enrichment opportunities for students and faculty beyond that which is provided for within the budget of Lindale ISD.
Purpose: The Lindale ISD Education Foundation has been created to support the educational programs for both the students and staff of the Lindale Independent School District. The Foundation funds are used to facilitate student achievement and skill development, to recognize and encourage staff excellence and to expand community involvement from individuals, businesses and civic organizations.
Celebrating Our Stars Lindale High School May 19, 2022
Schedule of Events Welcome Foundation Board of Directors
Invocation Recognition of Sponsors Stan Surratt, LISD Superintendent
Congratulatory Remarks Stan Surratt, LISD Superintendent
Recognition of Students & Teachers Jeremy Chilek, Lindale High School Principal
Closing Remarks Jeremy Chilek, Lindale High School Principal
Thank you, Sponsors! "Alone we can do so little; together we can do so much."
Hideaway Lake Kiwanis Mr. & Mrs. Don Achziger D&H Quality Cabinets Suanne Rouse Graham & Robbie Lyons Texas Bank & Trust Mr. & Mrs. Glenn Davis Barbara Wilson & Judy Burleson Chick-fil-A Cooperative Teachers Credit Union Better Homes and Gardens Real Estate I-20 Team
"Sissy Smith is always willing to do any extra duties that are needed and goes above and beyond for her co-workers at the Lindale Early Childhood Center. She is involved in the community and is always attending school district events. We are so thankful to have an unsung hero like Sissy Smith." - Lindale Early Childhood Center
"Debbie Sanchez is a long time aide at College Street Elementary with expertise in working with our most challenging students. For 5 years, Debbie was an aide in our math intervention class. While there, she celebrated successes when students met goals and coaxed effort out of students who felt completely incapable of learning math. Now, as our R&R aide, Debbie is working with students in desperate need of social and coping skills. In every situation, Debbie provides calm understanding and helps students work through their worst moments in school." - Velma Penny Elementary Staff
"Cheryl Worrell is one of the most hard working and valuable staff that Velma Penny or Lindale ISD could ever have. She is kind, knowledgeable, a team player, and a wonderful person to be around. She will stop everything she is doing to help someone. She is calm under pressure and truly loves to help parents, teachers, staff, and students." - Velma Penny Elementary
"Linda Garza approaches every task at work with a positive attitude and a big smile on her face. We have never heard a negative word out of her mouth about anything or anyone. She never complains and always gives everything she has to every thing she does. She makes the students feel special by decorating the lunch line for each holiday. She brings joy to every person that she sees throughout the day. She is a true unsung hero." - College Street Elementary
"Brandi James has exhibited top notch performance in her position as payroll coordinator and now in her current position as business office supervisor. Brandi gives 100% daily in her position and to those around her. She graciously explains payroll and time clock situations to those of us who need a little more help understanding. She amazes us at what she does on a daily basis." - Lindale ISD Central Office
"Catalina Martinez has been a huge help to the custodial department. We have been struggling this year on trying to cover areas at all of our campuses and Catalina always offers to help when we need her. There hasn't been a single time where she has told us she can't do something. She always does what she can with a positive attitude and a smile on her face." - Lindale ISD Custodial Department
"Irene Arzola is the lead custodian at E.J. Moss and has been the lead for two years. She works a lot of overtime because we are short handed but never complains. She works wherever she is needed whether that be at different schools or areas and she treats them as if they are her own. She even comes to work on the weekends if needed. There has never been a time that she has said she can't do something. She always finds a way to help get the work done." - E.J. Moss Intermediate
"Deena Turvaville accepted the challenge 3 years ago to take over and improve our credit recovery/operation graduation/FLEX programs. Deena has exceeded her expectations by investing in these students' lives in and out of the classroom. Deena is a great relationship builder, exhibiting patience and care for her students while holding them accountable. She is the ultimate team player. - Lindale High School
"Laura Blackwell is one of LISD's greatest unsung heroes. Among her many responsibilities, she is charged with making sure there are substiutes to provide coverage for the multiple staff absences each day at the high school. The high school is a very busy campus with the normal amount of illness and personal days taken, but also the many different groups where teachers and coaches must be out for student activities. This is challenging in a normal year but the past couple of years have seen a dramatic decline in the people wanting to work as substitutes. Despite the shortage, Laura works a miracle every day and ensures people are in place so that our students' learning process isn't interrupted. Laura's patience is a virtue that many of us could stand to learn from. She is amazing in all of her ways and we are blessed to have her. We believe everyone should know what an amazing and important job she does for our district." - Lindale High School
Valedictorian Vivian Lehmann Distinguished Educator: Neda Morrow Audio/Visual Media, Journalism, Yearbook, and Newspaper
"Mrs. Morrow has helped me grow as a student and as a person. I have learned quite a bit from her in 4 years, both in class and with UIL. She has shaped my high school career with her advice which I have applied in almost every area of my life. Mrs. Morrow has helped me gain confidence in my abilities, has helped me manage stress in difficult times, and has never stopped encouraging me to reach higher. She even gave me a safe haven within her classroom during lunch, without which, I would have had to brave the student maelstrom, known as the cafeteria."
- Vivian Lehmann
Vivian Lehmann Cumulative GPA: 108.103
Vivian Lehmann will be attending Rice University. She plans to obtain a degree in biology and to attend medical school. She aspires to have a career as a forensic pathologist.
Community & School Service National Honor Society, Project SOAR, Lindale Christmas Helpers
Activities & Awards - Editor-in-Chief: Yearbook
- UIL Journalism
- NHS Treasurer
- Tennis
- Under-Secretary General: Model UN
"Vivian is the definition of a classy lady scholar. She comes to school everyday with laser-focused determination to succeed, and she does so in a quiet, reserved manner that seems effortless. Vivian has been a member of our journalism competition team and our yearbook program for four years. As a UIL competitor, she is one of the highest winning students we have had at LHS, competing and winning in two state championships in multiple categories. Last year, the state director of journalism asked me "who is this Vivian and how does she win in everything?" I just laughed and said, "she came like that, and she hates to lose." Vivian is an outstanding young woman who has represented Lindale High School in the best possible ways. I am so proud to have had the opportunity to be a part of her journey."
- Mrs. Morrow
Salutatorian Gavin James Distinguished Educator: JP Fugler Speech and Debate Teacher
"Mr. Fugler has been my speech coach since my freshman year of high school. In the four years that I have known him, he has given me a multitude of knowledge in both speech and life. In addition to providing an environment where my writing and speaking capabilities were able to grow tenfold, Mr. Fugler always demonstrates an infectious love of learning and life. His classes were always exciting, and he somehow balanced having fun with preparing for serious competition. He has been an ideal mentor, role model, and human being."
- Gavin James
Gavin James Cumulative GPA: 108.036
Gavin James will be attending the University of Texas at Austin. He plans to obtain a degree in Radio-Television-Film. He aspires to have a career as a screenwriter.
Community & School Service National Honor Society, Tutoring, Lindale Christmas Helpers, Assist with Speech & Debate Tournaments
Activities & Awards - Speech & Debate President
- Science - UIL
- Extemporaneous Speech
- Essay Writing - UIL
- Paise Interpretation Speaking
- Model UN
- Current Events - UIL
"If I had to guess, I would think Gavin was ready to enter college around the age of 10. Thankfully, he stuck around a while longer. If you know Gavin, you know a few things about him. You know his unmistakable wit. You know he's as intelligent as he is kind. You know he possesses an encyclopedic knowledge of film. And, you know you're lucky to be in his orbit. As a speech and debate teacher, watching his performances has always provided a breath of fresh air. His most reliable quality is his brilliance. I will miss his daily presence in class as much as his unending movie reviews. While we may have deeply divergent views on such harrowing topics as what qualifies as the ideal snack food, one thing is certain: I will always be Gavin's biggest fan."
- Mr. Fugler
Distinguished Scholar Darby Woodrum Distinguished Educator: Sally Clemmons LHS Health Science Technology, National Honor Society Sponsor
"Mrs. Sally Clemmons has impacted my life not only as a teacher, but as a mentor as well. She taught medical terminology during my junior year of high school and is the National Honor Society sponsor, where I closely worked with her as an officer. Mrs. Clemmons is kind, generous, and always there for her students, whether it's school related or not. Thank you, Mrs. Clemmons, for hemming my jumpsuit on such short notice and thank you for providing donuts and service opportunities for us to help our community and to build character."
- Darby Woodrum
Darby Woodrum Cumulative GPA: 107.426
Darby Woodrum will be attending East Texas Baptist University. She plans to obtain a degree in nursing. She aspires to have a career as a travel nurse and work in labor and delivery.
Community & School Service East Texas Food Bank, 4:13 Challenge, Lindale Christmas Helpers, Junior High League Softball Coach, National Honor Society
Activities & Awards - Team Captain - Softball
- NHS
- Varsity Softball (4 years)
- Student Council
- Varsity Volleyball (2 years)
"I am so honored that Darby has chosen me as her Distinguished Educator. I admire Darby for her discipline, character, integrity, and desire to help others. Having Darby in health science classes for the past three years has been a treat to me. Students like Darby make teaching the best job one could have. One of the many great things about Darby is her ability to be incredibly successful academically, yet remain active in sports, service work, church, and other areas of her life. In the Certified Medical Assistant program, the classes are double-blocked, so I have had the privilege of spending a lot of time with her this year. She is very dependable and responsible, and she makes us all laugh! As a teacher, I know that she is going to move forward in life and make a big difference wherever she goes. Lindale High School has been made a better place because of Darby and students like her, and I will miss her. Darby has the ability to pursue any career she chooses, and I look forward to seeing what her future holds. She has been a blessing to us all!"
- Mrs. Clemmons
Distinguished Scholar Troy Dane Distinguished Educator: Duane Walton AP Physics 1 & 2 Teacher
"Mr. Walton has inspired me to pursue my passion in science. I am incredibly grateful for the effort that he has put into making me a better student. It is obvious that he deeply cares about me and my well being, and I will never forget the impact that he has had on my life. He has pushed me to improve myself on multiple fronts and has shown me the importance of hardwork. I have deeply enjoyed my time in his classes, and I will be forever grateful of his efforts."
- Troy Dane
Troy Dane Cumulative GPA: 107.05
Troy Dane will be attending the University of Texas at Tyler. He plans to obtain a degree in biology before enrolling in their new medical program. He aspires to have a career as an anesthesiologist.
Community & School Service CTMF Respite Care Program, Lindale Christmas Helpers, Nicholas Pet Haven, National Honor Society
Activities & Awards - NHS Treasurer - UIL Science Team Leader
"Troy Dane is one of the finest young men I have gotten to know in my 30 years working with high school students. Troy is extremely intelligent, and coupled with his great work habits, makes him a true delight to have in class. He was clearly my top student in AP Physics 1 and 2. I especially appreciate Troy’s character. He is very humble. If I didn’t tell others I don’t think anyone would ever know how successful Troy has been in the classroom and as part of the UIL Science team. Troy is only the second student in the history of Lindale High School to compete at the Academic State meet in science twice! Troy is also a very positive person. We have spent a good deal of time together over the past two years; I have never heard him say anything negative about a situation or another person. Congratulations, Troy, on a very successful high school career. You are going to make a positive difference in the lives of many people in the future!"
- Mr. Walton
Distinguished Scholar Aryan Patel Distinguished Educator: Rory McKenzie Speech and Debate Teacher "In countless of ways, Mr. McKenzie has served as a guiding force throughout my high school career. From being a speech and debate coach, to even an outstanding classroom teacher, Mr. McKenzie continually showed both care and dedication to his job as a mentor. He gave me the tools that I required to hone my skills in speech and debate events which helped me become a consistent winner in my craft. I can't thank him enough for the life skills that I have gained through the debate program as well as life. Your compassion is something that I will never forget."
- Aryan Patel
Aryan Patel Cumulative GPA: 106.900
Aryan Patel will be attending Texas A&M University. He plans to obtain a degree in biomedical engineering before attending medical school. He aspires to have a career as a specialist or surgeon.
Community & School Service Assist with Speech & Debate Tournaments, Dental Assistant, David Powell Food Pantry, Lindale Library
Activities & Awards - Speech & Debate Captain
- Essay Writing - UIL
- Extemporaneous Speech
- Math - UIL
- Informative Speaking
- Number Sense - UIL
- Current Events - UIL
- LHS Band
"Aryan has a quiet determination about him. He approaches his goals very methodically and works to achieve them. I think what I admire most about him is his ability to roll with the punches and keep on moving. COVID uniquely affected Aryan, and it greatly affected his ability to participate in our speech and debate activities. But, despite that, Aryan was a state and national qualifier in speech and debate. That determination I've seen firsthand, others will see in the future, and I'm so excited for that. Aryan, it has been my pleasure to know you these past four years. You are truly a remarkable young man. I know that you've faced struggles, but I've seen you come out for the better. I can't wait to keep track of all the wonderful things you're doing in the future. I'll always remember our speech and debate trips, but especially our El Paso TFA trip. I loved getting to see that side of you. Thank you for always being such an amazing student and helping make my job more enjoyable. Cheers to you and your wonderful future!"
- Mr. McKenzie
Lindale ISD Education Foundation: 2022 Board of Directors
Courtney Sanguinetti- Executive Director Gay Pyland- President Glenn Davis- President-Elect Kerrie Covert- Treasurer Penni Jordan- Secretary Don Achziger, John Driver, Wayne Fletcher, Robbie Lyons, Barbara Wilson, Pollianne Smith, Mike Barker, Regan Brandon, Wendy Duncan, Karla Richardson, Vicki Thrasher, Stan Surratt, Ex-Officio
Administration The Lindale ISD Education Foundation is a 501 (c) (3) nonprofit tax exemptphilanthropic organization of citizens. It is governed by a volunteer Board of Directors who are representatives of the communities and businesses served by Lindale ISD. The BOD is a separate legal entity from the Lindale ISD, but cooperates with the district to enhance educational opportunities for students and LISD staff.
Mission Statement
Benefits
- To students: Educational experience is enriched. - To parents: Students are prepared to fulfill their potential. - To teachers: Creative ideas are encouraged. - To businesses: An inspired workforce is ready to meet the challenges of tomorrow. - To communities: For the quality of life and economic growth which are directly related to the quality of education available.
The mission of the Lindale ISD Education Foundation is to create and sustain a visionary coalition of businesses and citizens generating investments and funding for innovative programs and initiatives that enrich and inspire educational and leadership opportunities that will benefit the students and teachers of Lindale ISD.
Distinguished Scholar Cassandra Hartman Distinguished Educator: Stephanie Sembritzky Dual Credit Math Teacher
"Mrs. Sembritzky is easily one of my favorite teachers. She works so hard to provide a multitude of methods for learning. Consistently, she walks into her class with a smile and a great attitude, and without a doubt, encourages others to do the same. Moreover, her guidance has allowed me to discover my destined path and passion for mathematics. All in all, I couldn’t be where I am today without Mrs. Sembritzky."
- Cassandra Hartman
Cassandra Hartman Cumulative GPA: 106.523
Cassandra Hartman will be attending Tyler Junior College before transferring to Texas A&M University. She plans to obtain a degree in mathematics. She aspires to have a career as an actuary.
Community & School Service Food Pantries, Band Contests, National Honor Society
Activities & Awards - Squad Leader
- Calculator - UIL
- Number Sense - UIL
- Soccer
- Math - UIL
- LHS Band
"This year, I had the pleasure of teaching Cassandra in my dual credit math class. Immediately, I could see that she was a unique student. Cassandra stood out because she was great at math, loved learning, and helping those around her. Everyday, Cassandra brought a positive attitude to the classroom. Her smile was infectious. Outside of the classroom, Cassandra attended my UIL math team practices. This is when I could really see her curiosity about math grow. She wanted to learn as many concepts and techniques as she could and truly understand the “why” behind the math. During this time, Cassandra mentioned that she is interested in pursuing a degree in mathematics. Her attitude, self-drive, and curiosity will help her excel in anything she wants to pursue in the future, but will make her an excellent mathematician. I am honored to have been a part of her educational career."
- Mrs. Sembritzky
Distinguished Scholar Liviya Simmons Distinguished Educator: Annie Streich Spanish Teacher "Mrs. Streich is my absolute favorite teacher because she inspired me more than anyone else to enjoy life's adventures. Through her kind, forgiving nature and her superior teaching skills, I learned by perfect example what a human being should be like. Through her extraordinary tales of teaching abroad, she sparked a flame of curiosity and wonder in my soul, giving me the burning desire to see what treasures and adventures there are all across the world. It is because of Mrs. Streich that I have not only a general wish to succeed, but more importantly, a passionate dream to fulfill in life. I love you, Mrs. Streich!"
- Liviya Simmons
Liviya Simmons Cumulative GPA: 106.411
Liviya Simmons will be attending Tyler Junior College. She plans to obtain a degree in general studies and to be a part of the TJC Apache Band and the Presidential Honors Program.
Community & School Service National Honor Society
Activities & Awards - Section Leader - LHS Band
- Drum Major - LHS Band
- 1st Chair Clarinet - LHS Band
- Cross Country
- Squad Leader - LHS Band
- Yearbook
"I had the privilege of teaching Liviya Simmons last year in my Spanish 1 class at Lindale High School. I immediately noticed her impeccable character, work ethic, intelligence, and leadership skills. It doesn’t take long to see that Liv is self-motivated and goal driven. She is well respected by teachers and peers alike. As I have gotten to know her personally over these past two years, I have seen her excel in every endeavor she undertakes. Liv is a natural leader; she respects everyone’s opinions. She is a strong young lady who is goal-driven and sets the bar high for herself. She has contributed greatly to many areas of Lindale High School, and I know she will succeed in anything she chooses to do in life. I am deeply honored that she chose me as an educator who made a difference in her life."
- Mrs. Streich
Distinguished Scholar Elizabeth Watkins Distinguished Educator: Katy Lyles Pre-AP Chemistry & AP Chemistry Teacher "Mrs. Lyles has significantly impacted my education and my life. She is one of the most caring and understanding people I know and is always ready to help when I need it. AP chemistry was a rollercoaster but Mrs. Lyles worked very hard to make sure that each one of us understood what we were doing. She is super easy to talk to and her class was the one I looked forward to the most. She is an awesome teacher and person and I hope to be like her one day. Thank you, Mrs. Lyles, for the person that you are and for the mark you made on me during my time at LHS."
- Elizabeth Watkins
Elizabeth Watkins Cumulative GPA: 106.370
Elizabeth Watkins will be attending East Texas Baptist University to obtain a degree in nursing. She then plans to attend UT Southwestern Medical Center to obtain a master's in physician assistant studies. She aspires to have a career as a PA in sports medicine.
Community & School Service 4:13 Challenge, Lindale Christmas Helpers, Santa's Bake Shop, Junior High Summer League Softball Coach, National Honor Society
Activities & Awards - Varsity Softball - 4 Years
- Fellowship of Christian Athletes
- Varsity Volleyball - 2 Years - NHS
"There are not enough words to describe the positive impact that Ellie has made on Lindale High School and our community. Her hard work and dedication have led to tremendous academic and athletic achievements, but it is her character that sets her apart. Ellie, your faith, kindness, and determination are inspiring! Your kindness makes others feel welcomed and appreciated. You are a bright spot in everyone’s day and you embolden those around you to be better. ETBU is gaining a beautiful, talented and exceptional student athlete. I am privileged to have been a part of your journey!"
- Mrs. Lyles
Distinguished Scholar Jesika Miller Distinguished Educator: Meredith Herren Pre-AP Geometry & Pre-AP Algebra II "I made a lot of wonderful memories in Mrs. Herren's class and I loved the way that she taught. She always made the atmosphere so comfortable and I felt like I could tell her anything (spoiler- I did). She never made me feel stupid for asking a question and my math skills would not be where they are now without her. I am thankful for the naps that she let me take, for only getting on to me a little when I talked too much or too loud, and for getting me a lemon bundt cake when I won her March Madness bracket. She has helped me tremendously when it comes to my mental health and I will never forget how happy and joyous she made my life."
- Jesika Miller
Jesika Miller Cumulative GPA: 106.054
Jesika Miller will be attending Sam Houston State University. She plans to obtain a degree in forensic chemistry. She aspires to have a career as a forensic pathologist or crime scene investigator.
Community & School Service CTMF STARS Program, Project SOAR, National Honor Society
Activities & Awards - NHS
- Debate
- Varsity Softball
- Basketball Manager
- Journalism - UIL "Jesika is a wonderful student that every teacher dreams of having in their classroom. I had the pleasure of experiencing this not once, but twice during her years in Lindale. I love her sense of humor, probably because it is so similar to mine. I love that she puts in her best effort on every assignment and test, and does so without overly worrying or stressing. This ambition and her faith allow her to know that no matter what the outcome in the end is, she will always come out ahead of where she began. She is dedicated to her school work, staying on top of her assignments despite a rigorous schedule with journalism and softball. Her confidence is inspiring not only to myself, but to others around her. She is always there to offer support to her friends when needed; though she is humble enough to reach out for help when she needs it. Jesika has worked hard for what she has achieved, never taking her accomplishments for granted. While none of us knows what tomorrow will bring, I am confident that Jesika will continue to apply herself to reach her goals and have the brightest future possible."
- Mrs. Herren
Distinguished Scholar Lian Boone Distinguished Educator: Steven Hitt Pre-AP Biology Teacher "I had Mr. Hitt my freshman year of high school and looked forward to his class every single day. Even though biology wasn't my best subject, he made learning about it fun and captivating. His class was always open and full of laughter. I cherish the memories I made in his class. As an awkward and scared freshman, having a teacher like Mr. Hitt, to be able to go to him without fear of judgement, helped me to come out of my shell. He was always up for a laugh and actively tried to create relationships of trust with his students. Thank you, Mr. Hitt, for always motivating me through some of my most influential and important years."
- Lian Boone
Lian Boone Cumulative GPA: 105.357
Lian Boone will be attending Tyler Junior College before transferring to the University of North Texas or Sam Houston State University. She plans to obtain a degree in general studies. She aspires to have a career as a wildlife photographer.
Community & School Service Project SOAR, LHS Band Competitions, National Honor Society
Activities & Awards - Journalism - UIL
- Yearbook
- NHS - LHS Band
"I consider myself fortunate to have had the opportunity for Lian to be in my biology class her freshman year. She stood out by making an unforgettable impression, even as a freshman. Lian is an incredibly bright and hard working student. Not only did she stand out academically, but personally as well. She is one of the first students to lend a helping hand and she truly represents the values of LISD. She always had a positive attitude that radiated to others, and most importantly, she ensured we ALWAYS had fun and shared many laughs throughout the year. I’m proud of what you have accomplished and I look forward to watching you shape the world for the better. Lian, YOU GOT THIS!"
- Mr. Hitt
- 2021-2022 Donors & Sponsors - Lindale High School Culinary - Stan Surratt, LISD Superintendent - Jamie Holder, LISD Deputy Superintendent - Jeremy Chilek, Lindale High School Principal - Courtney Sanguinetti, LISD Education Foundation Executive Director - Tommy Mallory, LISD Print Shop - Lindale ISD Education Foundation - David Ramsey, Lindale High School Counselor - Tamica Collard, Lindale High School Counselor - Larry Wilson, Event Photographer - Neda Morrow & LHS Journalism Staff - Southern Swag "Investing in the future of our schools, communities and society."