Argyle Insights ISD, Fall 2022

FALL 2022

12X LONE STAR CUP Published by

CHAMPIONS

The Official Magazine of the Argyle Independent School District

www.Murray-Media.com

Welcome to the New argyle south elementary school

I

t was an historic day on Monday, Aug. 15, 2022 as Argyle ISD opened its newest campus.

The third elementary campus in the district opened its doors on time to start the 2022-2023 school year. Argyle South Elementary School is a beautiful new facility located in the Canyon Falls community in Flower Mound on Denton Creek Blvd.

The new campus serves students in grades PreKindergarten through 5th grade. With the opening of the campus, Argyle ISD shifted to the PreK-5th grade configuration for all elementary schools to balance enrollments.

The first day was full of excitement as the campus welcomed nearly 800 students and 90 staff. With the campus being located in the middle of the Canyon Falls community, many students walked or rode their bikes to school.

"The first day of school is one of my favorite days," Argyle South Elementary Principal Dr. Dawn Jordan said. "There is so much excitement, happiness, and eagerness to embark on a new

journey. It has taken the dedication of many, many people to open this beautiful new school and I am grateful to be part of it. At Argyle South Elementary, we are "Always Striving for Excellence," and that excellence started today."

With the opening of South Elementary, the district closed Argyle Intermediate and it will serve a future role as a repurposed facility. Argyle Intermediate was a 5th-grade only campus and this transition required Dr. Jordan to build an additional staff of new teachers before the start of the year.

South Elementary was part of the 2017 bond package that also included West Elementary, which opened in 2019 in the Harvest Community. With the district’s enrollment continuing to grow, the fourth elementary school was approved in the 2022 bond package and is scheduled to open in the 2024-2025 school year with the location to be determined.

The design of South Elementary was modeled off the architectural footprint of West Elementary. More photos and video of South Elementary can be found on ArgyleISD.com.

Fall 2022 • Argyle Insights •

3

ARGYLE ARGYLE ISD

BOARD OF

TRUSTEES The Argyle Board meetings are scheduled for the third Monday of each month at 7 p.m. in the Board Room of the AISD Administration Building, 6701 Canyon Falls Drive, Flower Mound, Texas 76226.

Dr. Telena Wright

Chris Daniel

Superintendent

Deputy Superintendent

Dona Lumsden

Renee Funderburg

Dr. Deana Steeber

Assistant Superintendent

Elizabeth Stewart

Chief Financial Officer

Time is allotted each month for public comments. For additional information and the next scheduled meeting, contact the Superintendent’s office at 940.464.7241.

Hilltop Elementary Principal

Sam Slaton

Dr. Dawn Jordan

Argyle West Elementary Principal

Argyle South Elementary Principal

Todd Rodgers

Chance Westmoreland

Scott Gibson

Argyle Middle School Principal

Dr. John Bitter

Board President Vice President John King

Argyle High School Principal

Athletic Director & Head Football Coach

Girls Athletic Coordinator

Jason Bird

AISD Band Director

Craig Hawkesworth Josh Westrom

Secretary

Trustee

Rick Herrin

Matt Slaton

Trustee

Dr. Leona McDade

4

• Argyle Insights • Fall 2022

Angel Garcia

Maintenance Director

Greg Royar

Technology Director

Albert Rutledge

Transportation Director

Trustee

Ritchie Deffenbaugh

Trustee

Communications Director

Tommy Ledford

Executive Director of District Operations

Amy Bresnahan

Student Nutrition Director

Dr. Mark Ruggles

Special Education Director

Scott Collins

AISD Police Chief

Table of

contents

PUBLISHERS Scott & Kelly Murray EDITORS Jana Melton Rick Herrin Bobbi Byrne Sydney Bottum Christopher Sayler CONTRIBUTORS Argyle ISD The Talon News ADVERTISING Kelly Murray kelly@murray-media.com PRODUCTION Graphic Designers Nancy Winberg Cayla Thompson Hallie Preece Jessica Seitz

This Year's 2022 AHS Drum Majors: Abby Halvorson (L) and Maya Medrano (R) —read more on pg. 12

Letters AISD Insights welcomes reader feedback, story suggestions and general comments. Email artwork@murray-media.com.

All submissions become the sole property of Murray Media Group.

Argyle ISD News 03 Argyle Opens South ES 04 Board of Trustees 06 A Message from Dr. Wright 07 District Welcomes 150 New Staff 08 Argyle High School Principal Update

19 Argyle Middle School Principal Update 21 Hilltop Elementary School Principal Update 22 Eagle Partners

09 Convocation Kicks Off

23 HS Advisory & Planning Committee

10 First Day of School Photos

24 AHS Choir

12 AHS Band

26 Argyle South Elementary Principal Update

14 Celebrate Grandparents Day 15 Argyle West Elementary Principal Update 16 Lone Star Cup Award

27 Argyle ISD Earns "A" Rating 28 Friday Night Lights 30 Back to School Calendar

Contact Us Editorial and advertising inquiries call 972.899.3637 or email your photos, stories, student spotlights and| suggestions to artwork@murray-media. com for your chance to be featured.

Address: 3513 Yucca Drive, Suite 200 Flower Mound, TX 75028

Published by Murray Media Group.

Opinions expressed in articles or advertisements do not necessarily reflect the opinion of the publisher or the Argyle Independent School District. AISD Insights is not responsible for omissions or information that has been misrepresented to the magazine.

Advertisers and its agencies assume all liability for advertising content. No part of this publication may be reproduced or transmitted without the permission in writing from the publisher. © 2022 Murray Media Group. www.Murray-Media.com Fall 2022 • Argyle Insights •

5

A message from

Dr. Wright I

am so excited to kick off another school year as AISD’s superintendent!

In January of 2009, I became your superintendent after serving as interim for ten months. My own background experience includes teacher, counselor, assistant principal, principal, assistant superintendent, college instructor, and superintendent. I am honored to work in AISD and to represent the students, parents, and staff of this district. As the 2022-2023 school year gets underway here in Argyle ISD, I envision a very productive and exciting year for students and staff. Each school year brings new challenges and new adventures. AISD is a place where children are eager to learn, and educators are invested in creating a learning environment that allows students to be enthusiastic seekers of knowledge.

Teachers accept nothing less than the best from all students and hold fast to the dreams of each and every individual.

In June 2017, the district had 2,454 students, so you can see that the enrollment has doubled in the last five years. We are excited to start this year with a total enrollment of almost 5,000 students! Starting this fall, Argyle ISD is officially a Class 5A district. While parents may feel concerned that the increase in class sizes will detract from the attention their child receives, I want to emphasize that the Argyle ISD staff is committed more than ever to the education of our children. Teachers recognize that every student has unique characteristics, which 6

• Argyle Insights • Fall 2022

is why instruction must be versatile to meet their needs. Our educators strive to be role models for students — both at and away from campus. In addition to the new curriculum launched at AHS, such as the Law Enforcement elective, we have been able to bring back French classes to the middle school.

Last May, AISD voters passed a $267,885,000 bond designated to fund instructional spaces and facilities needed for the future. The goal is to increase the overall capacity of students with the addition of two elementary schools and a middle school. Technology, transportation, an indoor activity center, and a new stadium are also included in our future expansion plans. One year ago, AISD opened Phase 2 of Argyle High School in Canyon Falls. The high school is designed to serve approximately 1,500 students in Grades 9-12 this year. Opening August 15 is our newest campus, Argyle South Elementary School in Canyon Falls, which will serve 850 students, grades PreK-5.

This campus will be led by Dr. Dawn Jordan, who previously worked as the principal of Argyle Intermediate. Some of our campuses are even transitioning to grade-configuration changes this year.

Students in grades PreK-5 will attend Hilltop, South, and West elementary schools while Argyle Intermediate remains closed for future repurposing.

AISD will continue this year with PreK classes, which provide an excellent learning opportunity for students who

qualify as economically disadvantaged, Emergent Bilingual Learners, homeless, or children of military families. PreK is a crucial time for developing language and other readiness skills for Kindergarten.

Because AISD believes in the importance of early education, parents may pay tuition for a student who does not meet the eligibility criteria to attend PreK if space permits. We are still so thrilled about Argyle High School winning another UIL Lone Star Cup last year, which marked the 12th in school history. The Lone Star Cup represents an accumulation of UIL points from academic, athletic, and fine art competitions within each district classification. The UIL Lone Star Cup will be presented to AHS during halftime at an Eagle football game in October.

Once again, my purpose is to listen, uphold, and represent everyone within the AISD school district, so, please don’t hesitate to contact me at any time.

Dr. Telena Wright Argyle ISD Superintendent

DI S T R I C T W E LCO M E S

150 NEW STAFF

I

t was a record-setting event at Argyle ISD’s New Eagle Academy! This year, the district welcomed 150 new employees and staff at the annual new employee orientation. It was held for the first time at the new Argyle High School in Canyon Falls. Last year the event was held at Argyle Middle School as the high school campus was in the process of completing the move from the Highway 377 facility at the start of school.

New Eagle Academy is designed as an orientation to the district and staff with department presentations by curriculum, technology, special education, transportation, maintenance, finance, student nutrition, human resources and communications. Argyle ISD Superintendent Dr. Telena Wright, district leadership and each campus principal had

an opportunity to speak with the new hires to provide overviews and updates.

The new employees also have team building activities and learn many of the practices in the district. They enjoy receiving new Eagle gear and are provided breakfast and lunch over the four days of orientation.

This is also a great opportunity for the district’s Eagle Partners to sponsor the meals and have a chance to welcome the new employees to Argyle. We are very grateful for the eight Eagle Partners that were part of this year’s successful academy - DATCU-Pat Sherman, Kim Reding & Independence Title, CR Plumbing, The Real Estate Station & LHM Mortgage, Rich McDowell, Cross Timbers Church, First Baptist Church of Argyle and Point Bank-Rachel Dean.

Fall 2022 • Argyle Insights •

7

AHS Principal Update

MR. JOHN KING H

ello, Eagles! I would like to take this opportunity to personally welcome everyone back for the 2022-2023 school year! The new year brings with it a tremendous amount of changes and opportunities, and we are excited to start the year.

AHS opened its doors to almost 1,500 students this year – by far, the most in the school’s history. With growth comes opportunity for all University Interscholastic League competitions to move to Conference 5A. We welcome these new challenges and look forward to strive for the same level of excellence that we have displayed over our 20-year history here in Argyle.

The growth in the number of students on our campus has resulted in a need for additional faculty, coaches and staff. This year, approximately 22 new educators have joined our campus, and I believe that we have put together one of the best groups of teachers in the entire State of Texas. We have also added three new counselors to our staff to serve as 8

• Argyle Insights • Fall 2022

a mechanism to support the needs of all students; those of which come to Argyle with over 40 combined years of experience. I’m sure you will get to know and welcome several of these new faces over the course of the school year.

Games, events, and competitions have begun, and AHS has already experienced a great amount of success. The athletes, band, cheerleaders, and fine arts members have already put in a great amount of work over the summer and early fall.

We currently have the state’s top-ranked football team in Class 5A, and our tennis team is ranked in the top 5 in the state. Our cross country teams and volleyball teams have started the year off strong, and the playoffs will be here before we know it.

Our band was selected as one of the only bands in the entire state to be represented at the Texas Music Educators Associations Conference in February.

This is equivalent to winning a state championship in band. Congratulations Band! Good luck to all of our students as

they compete and represent our school this school year.

We held our school-wide open house on Monday, Sept. 26. It was a great opportunity to meet the faculty, staff, and counselors. As always, I want to thank you for the opportunity to work with your student this year. It is a privilege and an honor to help lead Argyle High School. I want you to know that my door is always open, and I welcome your input on the happenings of our school.

Thank you for your continued support – GO EAGLES!

Mr. John King - Principal Argyle High School

CONVOCATION KICKS OFF THE 2022-2023

SCHOOL YEAR A

rgyle ISD kicked off the 2022-2023 school year for all staff at this year’s annual Convocation!

The district welcomed back more than 600 staff for this exciting event that serves as a pep rally to start the year. This year’s theme was Saved By The Bell: The Eagle Years. It was a fun spinoff of the popular sitcom in the early 1990s.

Eagle staff dressed in 90s attire, and the event included breakfast and show all at Argyle High School.

This year’s breakfast showcased our Eagle Partners, and AHS student Daniel Cate performed as the morning’s DJ. The Convocation presentation was held

in the AHS auditorium and was led by outstanding student emcees Levi Pabst and Caleb Leonard. The show included a Saved By The Bell intro video & skit (starring Eagle staff) and recognition of last year’s Teachers of the Year by the Argyle Education Foundation. Student performances included AHS varsity cheer at the Majestics Drill Team.

Superintendent Dr. Telena Wright presented an update on the district, and the event’s guest speaker was Stephen Mackey. He provided an inspirational presentation about the Six Pillars - Integrity, Service, Excellence, Belief, Effort, and Toughness.

Fall 2022 • Argyle Insights •

9

FIRST DAY OF SCHOOL 2022-2023 O

n Aug. 15, 2022, Argyle ISD welcomed back students on the first day of school. The district’s first-day enrollment topped 4,800 students and included the opening of the new Argyle South Elementary School. This is the third elementary in Argyle ISD and is located in the Canyon Falls community.

Argyle ISD has more than 400 new students this school year!

In addition, the district’s staff continues to grow and is now over 600. This year, 150 new staff joined the Eagle team!

10

• Argyle Insights • Fall 2022

Fall 2022 • Argyle Insights •

11

Argyle HIGH SCHOOL BAND T

he Argyle High School Band is hard at work preparing the UIL competitive show “Shades of Autumn.” Students are spending hours outside with each other working on music, building relationships, and creating memories.

This year is a special year for the Argyle Band. For the first time in school history, the students will be competing in the Bands of America competition circuit. This includes a contest in Waco and in San Antonio. These contests are inclusive of all classifications at UIL. In addition to Bands of America, the Argyle Band will compete at the Princeton Marching Contest, UIL Region 2 Marching Contest, and the UIL Area B Marching Contest. UIL is not hosting a State Marching Contest for 5A this year.

Upcoming High School Band Competitions OCTOBER 1 • Princeton Marching Contest Princeton High School Stadium, Princeton, TX OCTOBER 15 • UIL Region 2 Marching Contest C.H. Collins Complex, Denton, TX OCTOBER 22 • UIL 5A Area B Marching Contest - McKinney High School Stadium, McKinney, TX OCTOBER 29 • Bands of America Regional McLane Stadium, Waco, TX NOVEMBER 5 • Bands of America Super Regional - Alamodome, San Antonio, TX This year’s 2022 AHS Drum Majors: Abby Halvorson (left) and Maya Medrano

12

• Argyle Insights • Fall 2022

nd a s h oot le! b b a r l i do va a s Ven p shi r o s spon Scan for tickets and more info!

November 13 2 - 5 P.M. Harvest Front Porch

Tickets: Child: $5 Adult: $10 Food Entry: $25

Join us for a day of family fun including amazing food, drinks, kids activities, live music, raffle items, prizes and much more! All proceeds benefit AISD!

SupportArgyleISD.org Fall 2022 • Argyle Insights •

13

Elementary Campuses

CELEBR ATE GR A NDPA RENTS DAY

O

New Tradition Brings Family Excitement at Elementary Schools

ne of the most exciting days of the year happened in early September at the elementary campuses.

The Grandparents Day Parades were held at Hilltop, South, and West Elementary Schools. This event started during the pandemic in 2020 and has been a great experience and new-found tradition for our Eagle students and families. Students made signs, and grandparents decorated cars, dressed up, and even brought their pets along for the ride. There was an alpaca at South Elementary, a grandparent dressed in a banana suit at Hilltop Elementary and more great decorations on vehicles thrilled the students at West Elementary.

14

• Argyle Insights • Fall 2022

“We love our Grandparent Parade days. I have two favorite things I’ve seen each year. The first is how families bring grandparents from wherever they are through the parade virtually by having them Facetimed on a device. The second thing is most cars yell out a “Thank You” when they drive by me.”

-Dona Lumsden, Hilltop Elementary “We are so grateful for the love and support our grandparents give us. They are our heroes! We hope they felt like celebrities during the parade because our students think their grandparents are pretty special. There were big smiles on both sides!”

-Dr. Dawn Jordan, South Elementary “It is wonderful to see the kids’ faces light up when they see their grandparents. These grandparents go all out decorating their vehicles, whether it be a car, truck, golf cart, rock climber, or four-wheeler. I have many grandparents tell me this is their favorite thing, and they appreciate it tremendously.”

-Renee Funderburg, West Elementary

Argyle West Welcome to the 2022-2023 school year!

I

hope everyone enjoyed their summer and is ready for another exciting year at AWE. The first month of school was a huge success, and we have welcomed many new students.

We have also welcomed many new staff members. DeLauren Tullos is a new Assistant Principal. She was previously the counselor at Argyle Intermediate School.

Erin Trantham comes as a new counselor to our campus, replacing Mrs. Edge, who went to the new South Elementary.

We also have many other new teachers throughout the building. Everyone is excited about their new positions and thrilled to start this year with our fabulous students.

We were so happy to welcome all our students back. Our goal is to provide an environment in which all students feel accepted and thriving in the classroom.

I encourage our AWE students to assist the new students in adjusting to our school community, and standards of high expectations. This can be as simple as introducing yourself, offering a show of support, or inviting them to join you at lunch or recess. I know our new students in the district will quickly feel right at

ELEMENTARY PRINCIPAL

home and welcomed to our AWE family.

We were thrilled to have 5th graders back on campus this year. Their classes are designed more like middle school with the comfort of a few teachers and a smaller campus. Additionally, you will see an increasing level of specialization among the teachers. It is also beneficial for students to interact with different students during each class rather than moving with the same individuals all day.

I can’t tell you how many parents tell me they appreciate how much our campus prepares our students to be successful in middle school. We hope you will find the same experience if you have students in 5th grade this year.

We have started our House System again this year. Check with your child to see which house they are in (Red-Amistad, Black-Altruismo, Green-Isibindi, or Blue-Reveur). We have various activities throughout the year for the houses to compete with each other. They earn points for behavior, charitable contributions, etc.

The house with the most points every nine weeks gets an extra recess. Winners of the competitions earn other fun activities, as well. Thursdays are wear your

house colors day. This system helps build community across grade levels and across schools, since all the elementary schools participate in the house system.

If you have any questions, please don’t hesitate to contact the AWE office at 940-246-4007. Your involvement and commitment to your child’s education are a vital part of our success. We value our partnership with the parents and look forward to working with each of you this school year to make it spectacular. Thank you again for your continued support.

Warm Regards, Mrs. Funderburg Argyle West Elementary Principal

“Our goal is to provide an environment in which all students feel accepted and thriving in the classroom.”

Fall 2022 • Argyle Insights •

15

AHS WINS LONE STAR CUP AWARD

IN RECORD-BREAKING FASHION

A

rgyle High School continued its tradition of excellence during the 2021-2022 school year.

Argyle was officially announced as the University Interscholastic League Lone Star Cup Class 4A state champion on Friday, July 1, 2022. The Eagles won this year’s championship in record-breaking fashion.

Argyle scored a state-record 168 points, marking the most points in the history of the award (all classifications) dating back to its start in 1997-1998.

This also marked Argyle’s 12th overall award, second only to Highland Park, which won its 13th title this year in Class 5A. Beginning in the 2022-2023 school year, the Eagles will move up to Class 5A, and Argyle will carry a state-record streak of 10 consecutive Lone Star Cup titles.

“Winning the Lone Star Cup is such a huge accomplishment for Argyle High School,” Argyle ISD Superintendent Dr. Telena Wright said. “Endless hours and a monumental amount of effort by students, teachers, coaches, directors, and parents have gone into this achievement. I am so very proud of their winning a 12th Lone Star Cup for AISD.” The Lone Star Cup recognizes the most successful high school in each of the six classifications based on overall results in

academics, athletics, and fine arts. The UIL will officially present the award to Argyle High School during a special ceremony at halftime of the Eagles’ football game on Friday, Oct. 21, vs. Frisco Independence.

Celina finished second behind Argyle with 101 points, and Canyon was third with 91. Argyle’s 168 points topped the previous point total record held by Carroll with 150 in 2001-2002.

Argyle earned team state championships in Marching Band, Academics, and Boys’ & Girls’ Golf. The Eagles also produced state runner-up team finishes in Spirit, Boys’ Track, Team Tennis, Boys’ Cross Country, and Baseball.

The Eagles were also regional finalists in Volleyball, Girls’ Soccer, and Softball.

Every Argyle athletic team qualified for the playoffs and combined for 13 district championships.

Lone Star Cup points are awarded in Team Tennis, Cross Country, Marching Band, Volleyball, Robotics BEST, Football, Congress, Spirit, Swimming & Diving, Wrestling, Mariachi, Film, Basketball, Robotics FIRST, Soccer, Academics, One-Act Play, Theatrical Design, Track & Field, Golf, Tennis, Softball, and Baseball.

“It truly takes the combined efforts of everyone in our school and community to

make this a reality,” AHS Principal John King said. “Breaking the state record for Lone Star Cup points in one school year was a goal that we have worked to achieve for many years. I am so proud of everyone that played a part in making this goal a reality for Argyle High School.”

Each winning school also receives a $1,000 scholarship. Trophy presentations will take place in the fall at events chosen by the winning schools. Visit the UIL website for a list of the final point totals in each classification.

“I am very appreciative of the dedication and hard work of all of our athletes, coaches, and staff for this to happen,” Argyle ISD Athletic Director and head football coach Todd Rodgers said.

“Excellence is an expectation in Argyle ISD, and every varsity athlete in our entire program contributed to the winning of the Lone Star Cup.” The Argyle Band won its 8th state championship this year, making it the most decorated band in the state regardless of classification.

“The Argyle Band community is honored to be a part of this historic accomplishment,” AHS Band Director Jason Bird said. “Argyle is a special place.”

Congratulations Eagles!

16

• Argyle Insights • Fall 2022

A RGYLE S TATE C HAMPIONS AHS Marching Band Academics Boys' Golf Girls' Golf Girls' Singles Player Meghna Kumar

A RGYLE S TATE R UNNER-UPS Baseball Boys' Cross Country Boys' Track Cheerleading Spirit Squad Team Tennis

STATE SEMIFINALISTS

REGIONAL FINALISTS

Girls' Softball Soccer Volleyball

Girls' Basketball Fall 2022 • Argyle Insights •

17

BE READY

FOR FALL

by Dr. Rebecca Butler (Lantana Resident), Board Certified in Pediatrics by the American Board of Pediatrics

R

eady for Fall? So are we! Don’t let the Flu steal all the fun. Get vaccinated and stay diligent about hand washing, eating healthy, and getting enough sleep to stay well all season. “Flu season” typically starts in the fall (sometimes earlier) and can last until the end of spring. Always get an annual flu shot as soon as it is available and ideally no later than the end of October.

COME see us ASAP for a flu vaccine OR check out our Halloween “STICK and TREAT” party. Bring your kids in their Halloween costumes and say “Boo to the Flu”. Science is no trick, and the flu is no treat. The flu vaccine can prevent severe illness in ages 6 months and older.

940.455.7200 | LantanaPediatrics.com 74 McMakin Rd., Ste. 100 • Bartonville, TX 76226 Mon, Tues, Thurs: 7:30am-6pm | Wed: 7:30am-1pm Fri: 7:30am-5pm | Sat: 9am-12pm

18

• Argyle Insights • Fall 2022

A MESSAGE FROM AMS PRINCIPAL

Mr. Gibson

Welcome back for the start of the 2022-2023 school year!

A

s Argyle Middle School continues to encounter rapid student growth, our 7th grade class has now topped the 400 student number as our largest class. We are sitting at just under 1,170 students for our 6th-8th grade campus.

Even with how much we have grown, we were still able to fit all of our faculty and students in the gym for the first pep rally!

This event really made me realize that things are moving back to pre-COVID times. The energy level from our students was amazing and behavior during our speakers was superior. Great job AMS Eagles!

Starting this school year without having made a move like last year was a blessing. The relief of already being on campus a year really did make a difference in staff stress levels. My hope is that we will continue to make strides in building relationships with students and providing an academically rigorous environment. Here are a

couple of changes for this year. We are implementing a new software called Ehall Pass in order to more closely monitor who is in the hallway, where students are going, and how frequently students are leaving the room. This information will help us to help keep all of our students safe. It is working very well just a few weeks into the year.

Students are prohibited from using cell phones this year except during passing periods. Parents can still communicate with their students during this time. Phones are not allowed during instructional time in class. A few weeks into school this looks to be going very well.

AMS has a number of activities going at full steam. Football, Volleyball, Cross Country and Tennis have a number of students participating. We look forward to seeing all of our student succeed in each activity. This school year is going to be outstanding.

“The energy level from our students was amazing and behavior during our speakers was superior.”

Scott Gibson - Principal Argyle Middle School Fall 2022 • Argyle Insights •

19

20

• Argyle Insights • Fall 2022

Hello From Hilltop!

ELEMENTARY PRINCIPAL DONA LUMSDEN

What a great start to our year!

W

e enjoy seeing all the smiles, listening to all the conversations, and having laughter fill the school. You and your students are what makes what we do so meaningful. We are excited about what lies ahead this year.

We want to welcome our new teachers and staff members to Hilltop. I’m not sure I would even call them new staff because they just hit the year running and have blended in so well at Hilltop! We are fortunate to add the experience and skills these individuals bring to our school.

Autumn is such an exciting time of the school year. The weather turns cooler, everything comes in pumpkin flavor, and activities begin. We have some exciting events planned, like Literacy Night, Watch Dogs Launch Event, Red Ribbon Week, and a Turkey Trot Fun Run.

We decided to change the fun run to a Turkey Trot this year so Mrs. McCage could add a turkey costume to her collection. Mrs. McCage is so ready to dress up as a turkey!

We are excited to announce that we have a new Argyle ISD Police Officer at Hilltop. Officer Velo has been quite a hit with our students. He enjoys immersing himself during recess to participate in football or soccer. He says his favorite class to join is Mr. Barkley’s music class, especially when they are dancing (I know someone who likes that also…me!). Also, he’s very skilled at noodle tag, from what I hear!

I tried to find Officer Velo to get a quote for this article and found him in the midst of Kindergarten Lunch, surrounded by students engaged in conversation. When I asked Officer Velo what the first thing that comes to mind if he were going to describe Hilltop students is, he said, “They are very respectful and very friendly.” Not only does he keep our campus safe, but he is forming so many strong relationships with our students and staff.

I know he is looking forward to building relationships with our Hilltop families as he sees you visiting the campus. Make sure you say hello and introduce yourself if you see him.

I appreciate the community we have at Hilltop, and our families are very special to us!

It’s a GREAT day on the hill!

Dona Lumsden - Principal Hilltop Elementary Fall 2022 • Argyle Insights •

21

WE VALUE OUR EAGLE PARTNERS!

Argyle United Methodist Church

Matt Friess

22

• Argyle Insights • Fall 2022

HIGH SCHOOL

ADVISORY & PLANNING COMMITTEE

I

n late August, Argyle ISD began studying high school configuration options.

The High School Advisory & Planning Committee held its first meeting and started the collaboration of more than 60 parents, staff, and students in studying the information. The first meeting included a welcome and getting to know each other exercise before the committee began examining the high school configuration options.

Throughout the next five meetings, the committee will analyze the configurations through five separate lenses and record their scores. The lenses include extracurricular & co-curricular participation, enrollment growth, finances, curriculum & instruction, and facilities.

Following the examination through the final lens, scores will be recorded and provided at the final meeting on December 7.

The meetings, which are open to the public, are led by Dr. Jim Vaszauskas, a

former Mansfield ISD Superintendent with nearly 40 years of service in public education. He serves as a strategic partnership consultant for many districts across the state after retiring in 2020.

The community can also be part of this process through an open feedback form.

Visit ArgyleISD.com or check a recent district Eagle Extra newsletter for the form to provide your feedback that will be shared with the committee members.

More information is available about the High School Advisory & Planning Committee on the district website at ArgyleISD.com. On the website, you will find the committee meeting schedule, list of committee members, documents shared at the meeting, and the purpose and charge of the committee by the Argyle ISD School Board.

Following the final meeting, the committee will present configuration options to the School Board at the Monday, Dec. 12, regular Board meeting.

Fall 2022 • Argyle Insights •

23

AHS

Choir Update

T

he 2022-2023 school year has finally started, and the Argyle High School Choir program is in full swing!

Over the summer Argyle hired Evan Ramos, who was previously teaching at Carroll Senior High School in Southlake, to serve as the new head choir director.

Ramos expressed his enthusiasm for leading the choir program this year.

“It’s been really nice getting to know the students so far; their lives, and their extracurriculars, but I also get to learn about them musically,” Ramos said. “I am honored to continue the legacy of our choir motto…Love Your Neighbor.”

Before working in Carroll ISD, Ramos served as the Assistant Choir Director at Rowlett High School (2010-2015) and in Plano ISD at Rice Middle School/Jasper High School and Schimelpfenig/Haggard 24

• Argyle Insights • Fall 2022

Middle School (2007-2010). He has a Master of Music, Music Education from SMU and a Bachelor of Music Education, Choral Studies from the University of North Texas.

Ramos also serves as the Texas Music Educators Association Region 31 Vocal Technology Chair and is a member of the American Choral Directors Association, American Society of Composers & Publishers, the Texas Choral Directors Association and TMEA. “We are excited to add Mr. Ramos as our new Choir Director,” AHS Principal John King said. “We love his vision for the program and believe that he is the right person to lead us into the world of 5A competitions.”

Currently, the entire program is preparing for the Fall Concert on October

25 at 7 p.m. in the Argyle HS Auditorium.

The choir will be singing a variety of songs in many different styles and from many various musical periods.

In addition to the Fall Concert, a number of choir students have been preparing since summer to audition for the 2023 Texas Large School All-State Choir. They will be part of over 13,000 choir students from across Texas competing for a spot in an All-State Choir!

The Argyle HS A Cappella groups Remedy and Flight are also preparing for multiple events. They will be singing at the Flower Mound A Cappella Invitational in November, and participating in AcaTex in December. Remedy is also gearing up to compete in ICHSA, the premiere high school A Cappella competition in North America.

Fall 2022 • Argyle Insights •

25

ARGYLE south elementary

School Principal Argyle South Elementary is off to a great start!

T

he best part of this journey is that everyone is so happy and excited! There is already a strong sense of belonging and family. As a school community, we are focused on fostering a warm and welcoming environment where everyone feels seen and heard. We are all about “South”ern hospitality, “South”ern vibes, and Eagle pride!

As part of this inclusive environment, we have implemented a House system.

The students coming from Hilltop and West will stay in their House from the previous campus. New students will be “sorted” during PE and receive a big greeting from their new House. During this first grading period, we will also celebrate Grandparents Day with a parade, host the official ribbon cutting for our beautiful school, and kick off our Watch Dog Dad program. We are very busy this fall!

Opening a new school has been very fun and somewhat challenging. However, we have continued to focus on three pillars: building a positive culture, creating safe and efficient systems, and providing appropriate professional learning for the staff.

A positive culture encompasses many areas. This includes a growth mindset, strong family engagement and high expectations. We bring our standard of excellence to life by including all our stakeholders and sharing our vision of success for our students. We set high goals for ourselves and for our students.

26

• Argyle Insights • Fall 2022

We are determined to accomplish these goals through hard work and intentional practices. We are halfway there because we truly believe in our students and have the encouragement of our community.

The next pillar is safe and efficient operations. We have spent many hours collaborating on the best systems for our campus. This includes movement inside and outside of the building, creating a master schedule that reflects our priorities, and clearly communicating and practicing safety plans. We are proud to have an experienced police officer on staff, Officer Eli Davis. He has been an incredible addition to our school and safety team.

Lastly, is our focus on professional learning for our top-notch, experienced educators. We are just as dedicated to their continued learning and growth as we are to that of our students. We have plans for ongoing professional learning communities and regular data team meetings. We combined the ideas and experience of our new staff with the Eagle excellence already present in Argyle and created something truly remarkable.

We are also very proud to have students and staff that speak a variety of languages and represent countries around the world.

It is a blessing that our students can learn so much about other cultures just by coming to school! We may be from around the globe, but now we are all Texans. We are Argyle South y’all!

At Argyle South Elementary, we are Always Striving for Excellence!

Dr. Dawn Jordan - Principal Argyle South Elementary School

Argyle ISD

Earns "A" Accountability Rating T

he Texas Education Agency released the accountability ratings for Texas public school districts and schools in August at the beginning of the 2022-2023 school year.

This marked the first release of the accountability ratings since the COVID-19 pandemic began in 2020.

Argyle ISD received an “A” rating and scored 97 out of a possible 100, marking the district’s highest score in the history of the A-F ratings. Argyle ISD also earned the highest score of any district in Denton County.

The ratings measure how much students are learning in each grade. It also reflects how well a school or district prepares students for college, the workforce or military. Argyle improved from its 2019 score of 95.

“I am very proud of the accomplishments of our students and teachers in the 2022 accountability ratings,” Argyle ISD Superintendent Dr. Telena Wright said. “The ratings reflect the immense amount of tireless efforts by our students and teachers during the 2021-2022 school year.”

The district earned a 95 in Student Achievement, which TEA measures whether students met STAAR test expectations. In School Progress, the district earned a 91 and this score measures how students perform over time and how the district’s performance compares to other districts with similar economically-disadvantaged populations.

AISD scored a 100 on Closing the Gaps, which determines how well a district ensures that all student groups are successful.

Argyle High School received an “A” rating along with Argyle Middle School, Argyle Intermediate (5th grade campus in 2021-2022) and Argyle West Elementary. Hilltop Elementary received a “B.” Argyle Intermediate, which closed this year with the opening of South Elementary School, scored 98. AIS earned six distinction designations - Academic Achievement in English/ Language Arts/Reading, Academic Achievement in Mathematics, Academic Achievement in Science, Top 25%: Comparative Academic Growth, Postsecondary Readiness and Top 25%: Comparative Closing the Gaps.

Argyle High School received a 97 and earned distinction designations in Top 25%: Comparative Academic Growth and Top 25%: Comparative Closing the Gaps.

West Elementary scored 91 and Argyle Middle School scored 90. Hilltop Elementary was one point shy of an “A” rating with a score of 89 and earned a distinction designation for Academic Achievement in Mathematics.

Fall 2022 • Argyle Insights •

27

FRIDAY NIGHT

LIGHTS

28

• Argyle Insights • Fall 2022

2022

T

here’s nothing quite like Friday Night Lights in Texas! And especially in Argyle!

When the Argyle Eagles opened the 2022 season this year, you could feel the excitement around town, in school, and at Eagle Stadium. Argyle opened the year on Friday, Aug. 26, against rival Melissa in the program’s first game in Class 5A. The night included an excellent season-opening victory and included all the great performances by the Eagle Band, AHS Cheerleaders & Eagle Mascot, and the Majestics Drill Team.

Be sure to come out and see all our talented Eagle students perform under the Friday Nights Lights! We are #SoaringHigher!

Fall 2022 • Argyle Insights •

29

ARGYLE INDEPENDENT SCHOOL DISTRICT 2022 - 2023 DISTRICT CALENDAR S

1 3 10 17 24 31

JULY 2022

M

T

W

T

4 11 18 25

5 12 19 26

6 13 20 27

7 14 21 28

S

M

2 9 16 23 30

3 10 17 24 31

S

M

1 8 15 22 29

2 9 16 23 30

S

M

2 9 16 23

3 10 17 24

OCTOBER 2022

F

1 8 15 22 29

T

W

T

F

4 (11 18 25

5 12 19 26

6 13 20 27

JANUARY2023

S

2 9 16 23 30

S

S 7 14 21 28

M

AUGUST 2022

T

1 8 (15 22 29

S

M

7) 14 21 28

1 8 15 22 29

6 13 20 27

7 14 21 28

2 9 16 23 30

T

1 8 15 22 29

T

F

S

S

M

(3 10 17 24 31

4 11 18 25

5 12 19 26

6 13 20 27

7 14 21 28

5 12 19 26

6 13 20 27

7 14 21 28

S

S

M

T

W

T

F

4 11 18 25

5 12 19 26

6 13 20 27

7 14 21 28

1 8 15 22 29

7 14 21 28

F

4 11 18 25

5 12 19 26

W

2 9 16 23 30

T

3 10 17 24

FEBRUARY 2023

W

T

3 10 17 24 31

T

NOVEMBER 2022

T

APRIL 2023

W

1 8 15 22 29

T

W

1 8 15 22

T

2 9 16 23

MAY2023

2 9 16 23 30

W

3 10 17 24 31

T

4 11 18 25

F

S

6 13 20 27

S

4 11 18 25

5 12 19 26

F

S

3 10 17 24

4 11 18 25

F

S

5 12 19) 26

6 13 20 27

SEPTEMBER 2022

S

M

T

W

4 11 18 25

5 12 19 26

6 13 20 27

7 14 21 28

T

1 8 15 22 29

M

T

W

4 11 18 25

5 12 19 26

6 13 20 27

7 14 21 28

S

M

5 12 19 26

6 13 (20 27

7 14 21 28

S

M

T

W

4 11 18 25

5 12 19 26

6 13 20 27

7 14 21 28

T

1 8 15) 22 29

3 10 17 24

F

S

2 9 16 23 30

3 10 17 24 31

F

S

MARCH 2023

T

W

1 8 15 22 29

T

2 9 16 23 30

3 10) 17 24 31

4 11 18 25

F

S

JUNE 2023

T

1 8 15 22 29

2 9 16 23 30

30

Holidays

Important Dates Student/Staff Holiday

New Eagle Academy (New Teachers Only)

Student/Staff Holiday (Staff Comp Day)

District Staff Development

Student Holiday/Teacher Workday

First Day of School - August 15, 2022

Bad Weather Make-Up Day - Student/Staff Holiday if not used

Student Early Release Day

Student Holiday/Campus Professional Development

Conference Day for Elementary/Student Holiday Graduation: May 20, 2023

S

2 9 16 23 30

DECEMBER 2022

S

F

3 10 17 24

Fall 2022 • Argyle Insights •

31