AISD Insights Fall/Winter 2016

FALL / WINTER 2016

A SEASON FULL OF

triumph

The Official Magazine of the Argyle Independent School District

Fall / Winter 2016 • Argyle Insights •

3

Hilltop

FUN RUN

A SEASON FULL OF

TRIUMPH

(Students on the Cover)

Allison White is a senior member of the AHS Varsity Volleyball Team. She is an FCA Leader at AHS and AMS, Canvas Service Leader for The Well, Member of The Well Youth Group, AHS Volleyball Team Captain, PALS, and leads a weekly Bible Study. Allison will attend Texas Tech University in the fall of 2017 on a full athletic volleyball scholarship.

Benjamin Nichols is a 5th grade student attending Argyle Intermediate School. Ben is proud to have participated in UIL Chess Puzzle Competition for 2 years and has been awarded two team 1st Place medals. Ben is also a part of Boy Scouts of America and has goals of becoming an Eagle Scout. Ben is a well-rounded young man with natural leadership abilities among his peers, maintains high goals for the future, and will continue to soar high as an Argyle Eagle.

Lyndie Freeman is in first grade at Hilltop Elementary. She is very social and enjoys making friends. She has lots of energy so she spends a lot of time playing outside.

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• Argyle Insights • Fall / Winter 2016

Ellie Richardson loves the challenge of being a sixth grade Argyle Eagle! She has embraced the academic heritage of excellence with awards in UIL Spelling, Social Studies, Ready Writing, and others. Ellie joined Duke TIP events in health care and engineering programs during her fifth grade year and is currently participating in robotics club and beginner band with the clarinet.

Annabel Thorpe is the two-year Editorin-Chief and Broadcast Director of The Talon News. She is also a documentary filmmaker, being a back-to-back state champion in UIL film and sweeping 1st, 2nd, and 3rd in 2016. Thorpe plans to major in broadcast journalism when she graduates this year.

Reeves Moseley is a 12th grader at AHS. “I am the bands drum major, senior class president, argyle youth advisory council president, challenge day club president, band senior representative.

I am on the varsity tennis team and have been for 4 years. I enjoy politics, and have worked on Senator Marco Rubios presidential campaign. I also interned for Senator Jane Nelson and have worked numerous local campaigns.”

Edgard Enrique Graterol Paez is 11 yrs old and currently in 5th grade at AIS. Edgard is part Colombian, part Venezuelan and was born in

Mexico. He has lived in Mexico, Miami, Germany and Dallas; He is fluent in English, Spanish and knows some German.

Branna Krumme has been an Argylian her whole life and an Argyle Eagle since Pre-K. Branna leads a very active life enjoying volleyball and running as well as archery. She has been a member of the Hilltop/Argyle Archery team since Kindergarten with her dad as a coach. They qualified and competed at Nationals and World competitions this summer.

Jillian Broadhurst is in 3rd grade at Hilltop.

She has lived in Argyle for 1 year. She is a very athletic girl who loves tumbling and plays volleyball, basketball and softball. Jillian is a very sweet and outgoing girl.

Peyton Deffenbaugh is an 8th grader. She is the VP of NJHS, VP of AMS Thespian Club, School leadership team. Active in Wyldlife, AMS girls basketball and track teams. Awards: Eagle of the Year, 2015 & 2016, Duke TIPS, District Best Actress award, AMS one act play, Spring 2016.

Grayson Gossett is 4 years old and attends the Pre-Kindergarten program at Hilltop Elementary. Grayson enjoys playing sports including flag football, tee ball and golf.

ARGYLE

BOARD OF

TRUSTEES

Get to Know ARGYLE ISD

The Argyle Board meetings are scheduled for the third Monday of each month at 7:00 p.m. in the Board Room of the AISD Administration Building, 800 Eagle Drive, Argyle, Texas 76226.

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.

Keith White Board President

Craig Hawkesworth Secretary

Brad Lowry Member

Jeff Williams Member

Dr. Telena Wright Superintendent

Chris Daniel Assistant Superintendent

Elizabeth Stewart Chief Financial Officer

Mandi Murphy Hilltop Principal

Renee Funderburg Argyle Intermediate School Principal

Scott Gibson Argyle Middle School Principall

James Hill Argyle High School Principal

Todd Rodgers Athletic Director

Kathy Johnson AISD Band Director

Skip Townsend AISD Girls’ Athletic Director

Greg Royar Technology Director

Pamela Arrington PR Director

Kari Frederick AISD Food Services Director

Albert Rutledge Transportation Director

Jim Hash Maintenance Director

Chief Carney AISD Police Chief

John Bitter Vice President

Jeff Day Member

Steven Moore Member

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Table of

ON THE COVER A Season Full of Triumph Argyle students share their achievements. . . . see Page 4

22 23 24 25 26 28

Publisher Scott & Kelly Murray Student Shout Outs AMS Band News Cheerleaders at Speed Camp Meet Fire Dept #6 Argyle Community Carnival AMS Breast Cancer Survivor Argyle Spirit Week

Argyle High School Hilltop Elementary

4 A Season Full of Triumph 5 Argyle Board of Trustees

AHS Theatre Events

Tennis District Champions

9 10

UIL Lone Star Cup Champions

11 12

Child Nutrition Nuggets of Info

Hilltop Veterans Day Program

Mrs. West’s Class Patterns Hilltop Chess Club

Argyle Archery Club

Hilltop & Intermediate Libraries

32

Argyle Intermediate

14 15

Message from Renee Funderburg

Run for Our Sons

New Technology Argyle Education Foundation

17

18

A Word From Mr. Gibson

School Advocates Program

19 Concussions 20 Middle School Sport Schedules

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• Argyle Insights • Fall / Winter 2016

Class of 2006 Reunion Message from the Coach AHS Student Spotlights Lady Eagle Athletics

38 40

High School Sport Schedules

41 42 44 45 46

Teaching Leadership

AHS Bass Team

Argyle 4-H Club

Shoot for the Stars AHS Band News Events from AHS Eagle Pride

Contributors Argyle ISD Steve Gamel Susan Neuhalfen Advertising Kelly Murray kelly@murray-media.com Production Art Director Lizeth Wallace Graphic Designers Whitney Hill Stephanie Hansen Caroline Brock Letters AISD Insights welcomes reader feedback, story suggestions and general comments.

Email artwork@argyleinsights.com.

All submissions become the sole property of Murray Media Group.

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

by December 30th, 2016 Address: 1011 Surrey Lane Building 100 Ste. 101 Flower Mound, TX 75022

Photo Pages

Communication

Transportation Department

Argyle Middle School

33 35 36

Meet Tex

8

PTO & PTA Mission Statements

Mrs. Murphy’s Message

Hello from James Hill

7

A Message from Dr. Wright

STAAR Update from Chris Daniel

29 30 31

Support Robotics Club

Lady Eagles Softball Teacher Going Over Edge

Get to Know AISD

Editors Jana Melton Bobbi Byrne

3 12 13 17 18 28 34

Hilltop Fun Run Hilltop Welcomes Marine Hero Day & Canned Food Drive Ranger Pride at Intermediate AMS Color Wars AMS Robotics Club Homecoming 2016

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. © 2016 Murray Media Group.. www.Murray-Media.com

A Message

from Dr. Telena Wright, Argyle ISD Superintendent

W

hat an eventful and busy school year 2016-17 has been! For the first time ever middle school and high school students are on completely separate campuses. The new Argyle Middle School opened in August to over 600 students in Grades 6-8. Ribbon cutting, dedication, and a fun night for students was held August 20 before the first day of school August 22.

Configurations changed at three campuses this year. Hilltop is now PK-3. Intermediate is 4-5. Middle school is 6-8.

The architectural firm for the school was Corgan and the construction company was Northstar. The school was made possible by

the passage of a 2014 45 million dollar bond that also included athletic upgrades.

This year a new strategic plan for the district is being developed. A community summit was held August 30; Kevin Castner with Cambridge is the facilitator for the creation of the plan.

A three day work session on the creation of beliefs, a mission statement, parameters, and strategies by a team of 25 that included parents, community leaders, teachers, administrators, students, and Board members was held September 21-23. Next step will be action team leaders and action team members meeting over a four month period and bringing information back to the large team. If

you are interested in being on an action team, contact Chris Daniel at cdaniel@argyleisd.com.

Becoming a District of Innovation is being investigated by AISD. The 84th legislature passed HB 1842 which gives districts an opportunity to become a DOI and have more local control. A resolution to investigate was passed in July. A public hearing was held in September. Now the Board will decide whether to go forward with appointing a DOI committee.

Enrollment is currently at 2438; the demographic projection for end of October is 2467. Canyon Falls and Harvest are bringing the most new students into the district.

Dr. Telena Wright Argyle Superintendent

STAAR UPDATE L

ast spring, our students took the State of Texas Assessments of Academic Readiness (STAAR) tests. These high-stake exams were administered to students in grades 3-HS in the areas of math, reading, writing, science, and social studies. Students must pass the Algebra 1, Biology, English I, English II, and US History tests to graduate. Overall, we were pleased with the progress our students are showing on these exams.

A summary of our scores is below. The Level II rates refer to the percentage of students that scored at the Satisfactory Level. In other words, the passing rate. Level III refers to the percentage of students who scored at the Advanced Level. More information about the performance levels can be found on the Texas Education Agency website

Chris Daniel Argyle Assistant Superintendent

Hilltop STAAR Scores 15-16

Argyle IS STAAR Scores 15-16

Grade 3 Reading

Level II 87

Level III 38

Grade 5 Reading

Level II 95

Level III 46

Grade 3 Math

84

27

Grade 5 Math

97

37

Grade 4 Reading

92

38

Grade 5 Science

93

28

Grade 4 Math

94

47

Grade 6 Reading

94

40

Grade 4 Writing

85

25

Grade 6 Math

93

18

Argyle MS STAAR Scores 15-16

Argyle MS STAAR Scores 15-16

Grade 7 Reading

Level II 92

Level III 44

Algebra 1

Level II 94

Level III 19

Grade 7 Math

89

28

Biology

100 33

Grade 7 Writing

91

37

English I

93

14

Grade 8 Reading

95

29

English II

95

18

Grade 8 Math

92

11

US History

98

44

Grade 8 Algebra 1

100

58

Grade 8 Social Studies

87

29

Grade 8 Science

92

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PTO PTA Mission Statements by engaging and empowering families and communities to advocate for all children.

Contact for membership is Jennifer Marley -Jennifer.Marley@charter.com Upcoming Events - Friday October 28 is AIS Fall Festival for 4th and 5th grade Hilltop PTA – Mission Statement To nurture every child’s potential while providing an avenue for families and the community to advocate for all children.

Contact Person: Kelly Lowe – VP of Membership Mandklowe@gmail.com

AIS PTA – Mission Statement To make every child’s potential a reality

AMS PTO - Mission Statement The mission of the Argyle Middle School PTO shall be to provide service and support to the students, faculty, and parents of Argyle Middle School in pursuit of excellence in academic achievement and personal development.

Contact for membership is Theresa Locastro- 940-595-3549

Mrs. Murphy’s Message

E

very day is a new day. In everyone’s life a fresh start is a gift, but with elementary children it is a necessity. And frankly, given a new day children use it with more zest than adults do. To help, our district, school, and classrooms need vision. Since August, I have been mesmerized in meetings by discussions about vision, community, culture, and togetherness. It came up with community members, administrators, teachers, and students in a district strategic planning meeting.

Vision was discussed in a grade level teacher team meeting, and parents and a teacher discussed their vision for the child they would share this year.

The hard part about vision is that we must take the time to put down the words that tell the expectations of the results that will one day occur. Our relationships, our actions, and our words will be the culture we create. If done well, the culture will provide a place for the vision to be an outcome.

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• Argyle Insights • Fall / Winter 2016

Participation in vision: It’s not enough to discuss vision for a district, school, classroom, or child. It takes all of us participating in a positive culture to make it happen. We must determine together what we want to obtain in the future. The most productive conversation about a child, content, or development has usually been heated with multiple viewpoints AND everyone stuck with the conversation until we had an outcome that we agreed we would full heartedly take part in.

Development in culture. Adversity Builds Character & Hearts Aspire When Victories are Celebrated For at least four weeks, our teachers worked with their students to develop the culture in their classroom. They strive to develop compassionate, caring, and positive classrooms while instilling initiative and positive risk-taking opportunities for each child. It continues through our volunteers, Instructional Assistants, and most importantly our parents.

AHS PTO – Mission Statement: The mission of the Argyle High School PTO shall be to provide service and support to the students, faculty and parents of Argyle High School in pursuit of excellence in academic achievement and personal development.

Contact: Jane Krzysiak, AHS PTO President ArgyleHSPTO@gmail.com

Remember, PTOs & PTAs play a integral part in school life to ensure that children reach their potential in a fun and nurturing environment.

Be sure to support your local PTO or PTA.

We are so thankful for you working with us.

All children go through struggles with one another, in learning, and often events occur out of their control and even the adults that love them. But the productive conversations that take place provide support and encouragement for those who need them. If you hear anyone sharing a concern about school and they have not reached out to us, please encourage them to do so.

We have so much to be excited about: assemblies, dress up days, fun run, holidays, presentations, visitors, friendships, connections.

Let’s never forget the joy of learning and the productivity of meeting a challenge.

We cherish the opportunity to educate and assist your children. Each individual is so special to us. I encourage you to participate in Hilltop functions and activities.

Mandi Murphy Hilltop Principal Argyle ISD 940.464.0564

UIL

LONE STAR CUP

CHAMPIONS

A

rgyle High School was honored in September for its 5th consecutive and 7th overall UIL Lone Star Cup victory! This is the second highest number of Lone Star Cups and Consecutive Cups in the state of Texas in any class.

With state championships in academics, marching band, volleyball, girls basketball and boys golf, Argyle set a school record with 134 total UIL Lone Star Cup points for the 2015-16 school year and has been named 2016 UIL Lone Star Cup champion for Conference 4A.

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Hilltop Elementary

Veterans day Program

Scheduled for November the 7th

T

he 2nd Grades at Hilltop Elementary would like to invite all Veterans, Grandparents, Friends and Neighbors to join us in celebration of our Veterans in a special music program. This will be held on Monday, November 7th at 6:00 p.m. in the Hilltop Elementary Cafeteria, 1050 Harrison Lane in Argyle. Please mark your calendars for this very special program honoring all of the men and women who have so proudly served our country. If you would like to contribute to our program or help out in any way, please contact the music teacher Mrs. C. at dchrestopoulos@ argyleisd.com.

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• Argyle Insights • Fall / Winter 2016

Mrs. West’s Kindergarten Class

PATTERNS

Chess Club Hilltop

E

ach spring, Hilltop students in grades 1-3 have the opportunity to participate in the school’s chess club. Chess Club serves as a wonderful opportunity for children to learn about sportsmanship and character while learning to play a truly amazing game that has been shown to improve memory, reasoning, and creativity. The chess season culminates with the much-anticipated Hilltop Elementary Chess Tournament that is held at the end of April. The club meets on Monday afternoons after school. Registration for the 2017 season will take place in December. photo by Susan Neuhalfen

Nuggets of Information Child Nutrition

courtesy of Kari Frederick

I

We want to be able to help you keep your s your child’s lunch money vanishing quicker child’s account in good standing so that there than you would like? It is common for our is not a disruption in service. You may also students to be entree focused and forget, view their account status at any time free of or choose not to select, a fruit or vegetable charge by logging into their My School Bucks with their meal. But, within the school lunch program, more will often cost less. According account. The website is www.myschoolbucks. com. Once on the site, you may view your to federal guidelines, school lunch is made student’s balance, check their up of five components: meat/ meat alternate, grain, vegetable, “The Child Nutrition transactions, and make a Department works deposit into their account using fruit, and milk. A student must hard to strike a your credit card. Please be select between three and five balance between components, with at least one serving healthy meals aware that there is a credit card of the components being a and serving what our processing fee associated with students love to eat.” making a deposit. However, fruit or a vegetable, in order you can always send a check or to get the meal price. If what cash to the cafeteria with your child and make they have selected on their tray does not a deposit free of charge. meet that criteria, they are charged at an Food is a very personal choice and children a la carte rate, which often ends up being have very specific ideas about what they do more expensive. This gets very confusing and do not like. It has been my experience to explain to young children, especially when that what works for one family in regards combination foods like pizza or lasagna come to food choices, does not always fit what is into play. If you will let your child know that acceptable for another family. If you have they need to get at least three items on their certain requests in regards to your child’s tray, and that they must select a fruit or a selections in the school cafeteria, there are vegetable, the likelihood of them choosing a different ways we can restrict,or flag, your tray that qualifies for meal pricing will increase student’s account to achieve the intended significantly. This will save you money, and will result. Please contact your child’s cafeteria ultimately provide them with a more manager if you have specific requests so balanced meal. that we can identify the best way to set up At Argyle ISD, we allow students to charge the desired restrictions within our software MEALS if they are out of money up to system. Your cafeteria managers are: negative fifteen dollars. If a student’s negative balance exceeds fifteen dollars, the student is offered an alternate meal of a cheese sandwich, a fruit, and a milk. Unfortunately, students are not allowed to charge extras or a la carte items. Currently, low balance alerts are sent to parents by School Messenger via phone or e-mail. Due to new FCC rules, we will soon have to cease contacting parents via automated phone calls, and will only be permitted to contact you via e-mail. Please go into your School Messenger account and make sure you are set up to receive e-mails and that your contact information is correct.

Hilltop Elementary . . . Leesa Cooper 940.464.0564 ext. 5129 or lcooper@argyleisd.com Argyle Intermediate School . . .

LaNisha Stagg 940.464.5100 ext. 4200 or lstagg@argyleisd.com Argyle Middle School . . .

Amiee Greathouse 940.246.2126 ext. 3102 or agreathouse@argyleisd.com Argyle High School . . . Nitosha Ramsey 940.262.7777 ext. 2018 or nramsey@argyleisd.com

In addition, you may always contact me directly at 940.464.7241 ext. 1010 or at kfrederick@argyleisd.com.

The Child Nutrition Department works hard to strike a balance between serving healthy meals and serving what our students love to eat. It is our goal that your child receive a hot, healthy, safe, and appealing meal in a friendly, supportive environment. We hope that if your child does not currently dine with us that you encourage them to give school lunch in Argyle ISD a try.

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Argyle Archery Club

A

rgyle Archery Club is beginning our 2016-2017 season on October 17th.

We meet on Mondays and Thursdays from 5:30-7pm in the building behind the intermediate school. Our group is open to students K-12 and supports the in-school program we have at Argyle. Archery has been competing at a high school level since 2007 at the Texas state competition.

All equipment for archery is provided for students to use during archery practice.

Archery is a safe sport and an excellent activity to get students involved in to build lifelong skills. Our volunteer staff is thrilled that they can share their love of archery with your students.

Libraries HILLTOP & INTERMEDIATE

courtesy of Mary Ann Riley, Librarian

W

e are off and running this year with newly-organized libraries at both Hilltop & Intermediate Libraries. Our Fiction books have been arranged by Genre, which makes it easy and efficient for our students to find the types of books they enjoy reading. Both libraries have moved to a Flexible schedule, which means students are able to visit the Library at the point of need, right when they have finished a book and need a new one. This leaves open time for the librarian to collaborate with teachers on their students’ research projects, as well as time to connect to other classrooms around the world through Skype or Google Hangouts. Here is a photo of a class that

Hilltop Welcomes

MARINE

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• Argyle Insights • Fall / Winter 2016

participated in a Skype visit with another class in Illinois to celebrate International Dot Day. The students shared the artwork they created in Mrs. Ruestmann’s Art Class.

Stop by our Libraries sometime to say Hello!

SUPERHERO DAY & Canned Food Drive

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A Message from the

Argyle Intermediate Principal W

e have almost made it through the first nine weeks of school and welcomed 351 Eagles so far this year. It has been a great beginning thanks to the hard work and dedication of our staff and PTA volunteers. We have the best PTA and they are committed to providing us with everything we need to make AIS so successful. They also spoil us with delicious luncheons and gifts. We truly appreciate them and their tireless dedication to our school. We had our first Grandparents Breakfast during the Book Fair and it was a huge success. It was wonderful to meet so many grandparents of our super students.

We’ve had many great changes this year to our building. We welcomed the fourth grade to our campus including the fourth grade teachers coming from Hilltop. We said goodbye to our sixth graders and their teachers. We wish them all the best at the new middle school.

So we had all new faces of students this year and it is taking a little while to learn everyone’s name, but we are diligently working on it. We also welcomed four new staff members — Lisa Ramsey, receptionist; Will Griswold, fourth grade music; Christie Lambert, special education and fourth grade social studies; and Emily Morrow, fifth grade science.

We are excited about the new changes of students and staff and look forward to what the rest of the year brings.

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• Argyle Insights • Fall / Winter 2016

This year our staff and school is focusing on a book we read this summer called, The Energy Bus, by Jon Gordon. It focuses on building a team with a common vision, and the belief that positive energy and a positive attitude influence and create more success than negative. Sometimes that is hard to do, but with a great group of people surrounding you with the same purpose and goal, you can accomplish far more together than as an individual. We are a family here at AIS and work closely together to ensure the success for ALL our students. We encourage you to pick up the book and read it. It will change your life!!

We started a new safety patrol on our campus this year. You will see several fifth grade students opening car doors and welcoming students to school every morning with a cheerful greeting. We are also fortunate to have high school students in the PALS program come over to our campus and mentor some of our students every Wednesday starting in October. Our October will be a very busy and exciting time at AIS. We have conference day scheduled for Oct. 5. Teachers will be in contact with parents if they feel a conference in necessary.

At anytime throughout the year, if you would like to schedule a conference to discuss your child’s progress, please feel free to contact any teacher. There is a staff development day on Oct. 10, so there will be a holiday for students.

The end of the nine weeks is on Oct. 14 and

report cards will go home on Oct.20. Red Ribbon Week is Oct. 24- 28 with lots of fun activities scheduled. In November, we want to invite all our family members that are currently serving or have served in the military to our Veteran’s Breakfast on Nov. 11. We will also be serving Thanksgiving Dinner during both of our lunch times on Nov. 16 and we welcome parents and grandparents to attend.

We have many opportunities for students to get involved in some extracurricular activities here at AIS. Most clubs meet after school during the week and provide time for students to meet new people, find a new interest or continue to be involved in something they love. We have Girls on the Run, a running club for girls. We also have a book club, Drama Kids, robotics club, and homework helpers. Later on in the year we will have a science club, chess club and pickle ball club. What’s pickle ball you ask? Ask your child…they will learn all about it later this semester in PE. We look forward to getting to know all our students and families this year at AIS. We believe that it takes a partnership between school and home to create a successful learning environment for all. Please know that you are always welcome to call or email if you have a question or concern. We wish everyone a great and successful school year Renee Funderburg Principal Argyle Intermediate School

Run for Our Sons

I

n 2005, a group of 20 runners put together a team and entered the Walt Disney World Marathon. The goal was simple — raise money for Parent Project Muscular Dystrophy (PPMD). The success of that event blossomed into an extraordinary fundraising program as there are now several locally organized events raising money for PPMD year round, as well as teams still entering in big name, national marathons and running events.

One of those events has been right here in Argyle for years. The first “Argyle Run For Our Sons” event was held in October 2013. With a play on “argyle” as a type of sock, we coined the phrase of “sock it to Duchenne.”

Doug Hollenshead was the visionary for the first event, and has been the organizer and race director for the previous three runs.

All age levels can participate. We have had

runners as young as 2 or 3 (with their feet on the ground), of course babies in strollers, and believe the oldest registrant that we have had was 86.

The one mile fun run/walk for this year’s

Over the past three years we have averaged over $35,000 per year. All in, approximately $110,000 has been raised.

Our 2016 goal was again to raise $30,000.

It was a wonderful way for families to have fun, exercise and participate together in a local community event.

While these proceeds do not go directly to local families, the research directly affects several Argyle ISD students.

installment began at 8:00AM, and the 5K Run began shortly thereafter at 8:30. There were finisher medals for all kids, crystal and medals for race winners.

This year we had warm ups with Steadfast Performance Fitness, led by former Dallas Cowboy and Super Bowl XLVI Champion, Isaiah Stanback. Also, the Allen American’s Ice Angel Dance team performed a routine. That team also participated in the run. We also had the Chik-Fil-A Cow doing the race. There was a raffle of items donated by local merchants as well.

NewTECHNOLOGY article and photos courtesy of Greg Royar

O

ver the summer, the AISD Technology department deployed new display devices into every classroom in the district.

The new Dell TV’s are 70” with touchscreen support for adopting interactivity within the classroom. They offer superior image quality and brightness over the projectors that had been previously deployed in 2008. Along with the TVs, staff are supplied with Dell laptops that have touchscreens as well. In an age that

is moving to touch devices, we believe that it is imperative to mimic real world scenarios and prepare students for the future, which can be seen by the adoption of a one-to-one program for students. This program uses touchscreen chromebooks from grade 5 through 12. For more information about technology in AISD, please visit www.aisdit.com

C

ongratulations to our Golden Eagle Teacher Excellence Award Winners: Pam Moore, Hilltop Elementary; James McNair, Argyle Intermediate; Kimberly McCage, Argyle Middle and Pam Arrington, Argyle High School. And honoring our 2015-2016 Lisa M.Z. AISD Teacher of the Year Mrs. Pam Arrington.

For information on upcoming available Gala sponsorships and table sponsorships contact: Amy Williams Information@supportargyleisd.org www.supportargyleisd.com

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• Argyle Insights • Fall / Winter 2016

Communication E

ffective Communication is vital to success.

Our goal for this year in the area of communication is to implement more ways for people in our district to conveniently access quality information. It is important for our communication methods to build a bridge connecting everyone in our district. So far this year we have consolidated messages being sent to parents by sending out a “Week at a Glance” as well as a weekly “Eagle Update.”

We have established lines of communication by sitting down and meeting with community members, parents, and stakeholders. We have scheduled district PTA/PTO meetings that take place every other month allowing board members from each PTA/PTO organization a chance to meet with each other as well as Dr. Wright and myself so they can ask questions and discuss upcoming events, collaborate on ideas, and offer suggestions. It is very important to capture the events as they occur in our district so you will often see me at events

taking pictures and collecting information for stories. As a district, we want people to know what amazing things our students and teachers are doing. We have a lot of pride in our district and community and want to share that pride with those around us. This year we were able to give our former district newsletter “Insights” a whole new look. We partnered with Murray Media Publishing to provide this up to date magazine. “Insights” will be published quarterly and will be available in print and online. As our district continues to grow it is important to help new students and their families get acclimated with our school system and community. We will continue to further our communication and outreach and look forward to ensuring success in these areas.

TRANSPORTATION Department courtesy of Albert Rutledge

he new school year is off and running and the Transportation Department is doing everything possible to ensure your student gets to and from school and extracurricular events and field trips safely. On an average day, we see around 655 students going to and from school.

With the growth of our district that number is expected to double in the next five years.

If you or someone you know are interested in becoming a school bus driver, please do not hesitate to contact the Transportation Department. We provide paid training and you will have the same holiday schedule as your students.

Some of our

at Argyle Intermediate School

Pamela Arrington Director, Public and Community Relations parrington@ argyleisd.com 940.390.9090

A Message from the

T

RANGER PRIDE

new neighborhoods have seen multiple route changes already this school year. This is due to the rapid growth and the lack of bus drivers to start the 2016-17 school year. We are still making changes as new bus drivers come on board. Please check the district web page and social media accounts regularly for updates.

Hilltop and Intermediate school parents, be on the lookout for our “Bus Bucks” reward program. This program rewards your students with Bus Bucks for good behavior while on board the school bus. Your students will be able to purchase small items with their bus bucks at the

end of each month. The items include pencils, bookmarks coloring books and stickers. Our goal is to have local vendors donate other items as the program progresses throughout the school year. We hope the program reinforces good behavior while your students are riding the school bus to and from school.

Our bus drivers care about your student’s safety. Be sure to thank them when you see them. Most start at 6 a.m. and most are not done until after 5 pm. If the driver has to drive an after-school event, sometimes they do not finish until after 10 p.m.. The simple thank you or a wave goes a long way.

Each year the Transportation Department donates hundreds of clothing, back packs and phones that were never claimed from our lost and found to a local charity. Please mark your child’s personal items with a label or permanent marker with their name and school of attendance. This will help us return your child’s lost articles back to them.

Thank you in advance for encouraging your students to be safe while onboard the big yellow bus.

Fall / Winter 2016 • Argyle Insights •

17

A Word from Mr. Gibson SCHOOL W

e are off to a great start for the

If you have questions regarding the

2016-2017 school year at Argyle

middle school please do not hesitate to

Middle School. We are experiencing many

call or email. My contact information is

firsts this school year. This is the first year to

sgibson@argyleisd.com and I can be reached

be separated from the high school. This is the

at 940-246-2126 x3002. I look forward to

first year to be on our new campus, the first

getting to know all of our middle school

year to reunite our sixth grade with seventh

students and parents.

Scott Gibson Principal Argyle Middle School 940.246.2126 Ext. 3002

and eighth grade, and the first time we have enrolled over 100 new students.

All of these first occurrences have helped create an atmosphere of excitement around our school building. Speaking of our school building – what an impressive building for our students to come and learn each day. From the library to the classrooms, collaboration spaces, cafeteria, and gyms, this is a premiere campus for our students to

ARGYLE MIDDLE SCHOOL

COLOR WARS

attend.

18

6TH GRADE

7TH GRADE

8TH GRADE

• Argyle Insights • Fall / Winter 2016

ADVOCATES

PROGRAM

T

en eighth graders traveled to Region XI to participate in the iSchool Advocates Program. This was a three day program that empowered students to model, inspire and facilitate change through technology at the local school level.

The students were paired off and took on the challenge of improving different technology applications in our district. The students virtually met with administrators from AISD and asked questions on improvements that they would like to see in the district. The administrators then asked the opinions of the students on their experience in the classrooms.

At the end of three days, the students presented their information and plans on different topics to improve technology in AISD. Their ideas included a virtual tour of the new middle school, training videos helping teachers integrate technology into the classroom, parents signing in to student accounts to see their productivity in classes, and creating a website to post help videos for students with different technology applications.

As a group, the iSchool Advocates for AMS have decided this year’s project will be to make training videos that help teachers integrate technology into the classroom. They will begin with meeting the first Monday of each month and create videos. On October 5th, the students will be presenting their idea to teachers during the teacher’s workday.

CONCUSSIONS Sports in North Texas are in full swing.

With all this activity comes an increase risk of injuries, specifically head injuries. As a parent myself, I understand why head injuries can be worrisome and scary. Being informed on head injuries, such as concussions, can ease a parent’s mind and prevent complications. I wanted to share important precautions, what to do when an injury does occur, and an informative app to help parents ensure their child’s safety.

• Loses consciousness (even briefly).

What is a Concussion?

• Bothered by light or noise.

A concussion is a type of traumatic brain injury caused by a bump, blow, or jolt to the head or by a hit to the body that causes the head and brain to move quickly back and forth.

• Confusion, concentration or memory problems.

Tips to Prevent Concussions • Practice good sportsmanship.

• Players should follow their coach’s rules for safety and rules of the sport.

• Emphasize to your child the importance of knowing and reporting symptoms of a head injury to their coach and taking time to recover.

• Make sure your child always wears the right helmet for their activity and that it fits correctly. Wearing a helmet is a must to help reduce the risk of a serious brain injury or skull fracture. The right fit and type of helmet is extremely important.

However, helmets are not designed to prevent concussions. There is no “concussion-proof ” helmet.

Signs of a Possible Concussion • Appears dazed or stunned.

• Moves clumsily.

• Answers questions slowly.

• Shows mood, behavior, or personality changes.

• Can’t recall events prior to or after a hit or fall.

• Headache or “pressure” in head.

• Nausea or vomiting.

• Balance problems, dizziness, or double/ blurry vision.

The CDC HEADS UP Concussion and Helmet Safety app will help you learn how to spot a possible concussion and what to do if you think your child or teen has a concussion or other serious brain injury. The application also includes a 3D helmet fit feature that teaches about proper helmet fit, safety and care. For more information, visit: http://www.cdc.gov/ headsup/index.html

• Feeling sluggish, hazy, foggy, or groggy.

• Just not “feeling right” or “feeling down”.

What Should I Do If my Child Has a Possible Concussion?

Take your child out of play IMMEDIATELY following the injury. They should be seen by a medical professional ASAP and only return to play with clearance from a doctor who is experienced in evaluating for concussions.

Do NOT try to judge the severity of the injury yourself. Some symptoms may not show up for hours or days. A repeat head injury in the hours, days, or weeks following an initial insult/ injury can result in permanent damage, coma, or death. This is referred to as SIS (second impact syndrome) and is life threatening. A child’s return to school and sports should be a gradual process that is carefully managed by a medical professional.

Rachelle Smouse, RN, BSN, CPEN has been a pediatric nurse for over 17 years. She is currently part of the Lantana Pediatrics family with Dr. Rebecca Butler and Melanie Bitzer, NP. Visit our website for more information on how we can assist you in caring for your children. www.lantanapediatrics.com

74 McMakin Road, Ste. 100 • Bartonville, TX 76226 940.455.7200 www.LantanaPediatrics.com Mon-Thurs: 7:30am-6:30pm • Friday: 7:30am - 5pm • Saturdays: 9am - 12pm Call to schedule appointment with Dr.Butler or our NEW Nurse Practitioner, Melanie Bitzer.

MIDDLE SCHOOL

SPORTS Schedules

Volleyball Band

DATE

OPPONENT

LOCATION B

A

OCT 13

Sanger

Sanger

6:00

7:00

OCT 15

LC Tournament

Liberty Christian

TBD

TBD

OCT 20

Azle

Azle

6:00

7:00

OCT 27

Lake Worth

Lake Worth

6:00

7:00

OCT 25 - 6:00 pm to 9:00 pm MS Band Fall Concert @ Auditorium NOV 15 - TBD MS Band Region Auditions @ TBD

8th Grade

7th Grade

Football DATE

OPPONENT

LOCATION BEGINS

OCT 18

Sanger

Sanger

6:00

OCT 25

Krum

Argyle

6:00

NOV 1

Piner

Argyle

6:00

DATE

OPPONENT

LOCATION BEGINS

OCT 18

Sanger

Argyle

6:00

OCT 25

Krum

Krum

6:00

NOV 1

Piner

Piner

6:00

DEC 08 - 6:00 pm to 9:00 pm MS Band Winter Concert @ Auditorium JAN 13-14 MS Region Clinic and Concert @ TBD

MORE SPORT SCHEDULES ARE AVAILABLE AT WWW.ARGYLEISD.COM

Basketball DATE

OPPONENT

LOCATION

7B 7A 8B 8A

NOV 10

Decatur

Decatur

6:00

7:00

6:00

7:00

NOV 17

Krum

Argyle

6:00

7:00

6:00

7:00

DEC 1

Gainesville

Gainesville

6:00 7:00 6:00 7:00

DEC 8

Azle Forte

Argyle

6:00

DEC 15

Sanger

Argyle

6:00 7:00 6:00 7:00

7:00

6:00

7:00

DEC 17 Lewisville Tournament Lewisville TBA TBA

20

JAN 5

Krum

Krum

JAN 7

Braswell Tournament

Braswell

• Argyle Insights • Fall 2016

4:30 6:30 5:30 7:30 TBA

Fall 2016 • Argyle Insights •

21

Celebrate your students achievements in a personalized shout out!

Interested? Call us at 972.890.1128 or email Kelly@Murray-Media.com

22

• Argyle Insights • Fall / Winter 2016

, Director

y Johnson om Kath fr s te a d p

ental of Instrum

yle ISD

Music , Arg

Band U

AMS WINTER CONCERT HELD DECEMBER 8TH

AMS FUNDRAISER BEGINNER BAND CONCERT HELD OCTOBER 25TH The Beginner Band students are making their first sounds on their instruments and just around the corner is the AMS Beginner Band Demonstration Concert. This will be the very first performance of the beginner band and will be held on October 25th at Argyle High School. The 7th & 8th grade Band Fall Concert, to be held on October 27th at Argyle High School.

OUR THANKS Thank you to our Band Boosters Board for their continued diligence in keeping our students fed, hydrated, clothed, and supported.

Kudos to Mark Miracle for his efforts in raising funds for the band. Hearty thanks go out to Wendie Heine and crew for taking on the daunting task of marching uniform fittings and shoe dying! Thanks to our trailer driver parents, Fred (Yogi) Gantz and Rob Schermerhorn.

Eternal thanks to Brian Darnell for organizing the prop and pit parents and for his help with the electronics and LED screens. Thank you to the community of Argyle for your undying support. Finally, thank you to all of the parent volunteers from ‘pit pops’ and prop helpers, to ‘bleacher creatures’ to drivers….without you, we couldn’t do our jobs nearly as well!

The AMS Band fundraiser is in progress and will continue through September 13. This is a magazine sales and renewal project that the band does every year. So, please renew your existing subscriptions through the band to help them out. And if you want to subscribe to any new publications, contact your nearest band student or Mr. Fletcher and Mr. Gutic at AMS. After September 13th, orders can still be placed online. In conjunction with the fundraiser, middle school band students will be traveling to AT&T Cowboy Stadium to have an up close and personal tour of the facilities. This event will occur on September 30th.

The middle school bands will perform their annual Winter Concert on December 8th at Argyle High School. The middle school bands do many great social activities; among them will be a visit to Six Flags Holiday in the Park on December 10th.

AMS JOINS THE EAGLES On October 21st, all middle school activities will be showcased at the high school football game against Sanger. The AMS Red & White Band students will join forces with the Argyle High School Eagle Band to perform pep tunes in the stands. This is an amazing representation of musical talent all in one place!

ARGYLE’S OUTSTANDING PERFORMANCE Over the summer the Argyle Middle School Red Band placed in the top 5 in the ATSSB Outstanding Performance Series. This honor was achieved by the submission being adjudicated through a region, area, and state process. In addition, 17 AMS band students attended the Texas Lutheran University Summer Music Academy where they spent time honing their musical skills through band ensembles and music electives.

Fall / Winter 2016 • Argyle Insights •

23

Argyle Eagles Cheerleaders at

NCA SPEED CAMP article and photos provided by: Kelly Baum

I

n June, the Argyle Middle School and High School Cheer Programs attended NCA Speed Camp at the University of Oklahoma.

The NCA Innovative Speed Camps are designed to be the premier source for skill development and training of today’s cheer athlete. NCA Speed Camps are perfect for teams that want to focus on the techniques needed to advance their individual and team skills in stunts, pyramids, and baskets. NCA Innovative Speed Camps are taught by the most highly-trained professionals in the nation.

This was a new format for our program and the girls loved it!! It was an intense 3 days of tumbling, stunting, and pyramid building.

There were three awards that were awarded at the end of camp as well as NCA All-American Cheerleader.

24

• Argyle Insights • Fall / Winter 2016

The Awards were Top Gun Tumbler, Top Gun Jumper and Top Gun Stunt group.

In the High School Division, Gracie Baum was named Top Gun Jumper.

In the Junior High/Middle School Division, Cayden Sizelove was named Top Gun Tumbler and Emma Estrada, Makinley Miller, Sara Holder and Maggie Standridge were awarded Top Gun Stunt Group.

NCA All Americans were: Gracie Baum, Farrah Naderi, Rachel House, and Taylor Kirkpatrick on Varsity; Elexah Milbaurer and Elizabeth Beduna on Junior Varsity; Riley Berger, Sam Gladys, Lila Rigsby, Cayden Sizelove, and Trista Acker on the Middle School Squad.

AHS will send a competition squad to compete for a UIL state championship in January, so the girls will be working hard to earn a top title in their division. Our AMS cheerleaders are coached

by Kellye Baum and Tiffany Halk. JV cheerleaders are coached by Erin Lemish and varsity is coached by Laura Truebenbach. The choreography and stunting coach is Valerie Standridge.

Meet

FIRE DEPT

6

#

Flower Mound Fire Dept.

Chief Greaser

Tell me about your background and position with The Flower Mound Fire Department?

I am the Fire Chief for the Flower Mound Fire Department and have been since August 2014.

Prior to my service here, I was at the Coppell Fire Department for 20 years, where I most recently served as the Deputy Chief over operations.

Explain why Fire Station 6 is housing at AMS. As the area began to develop and a school was announced, it became crystal clear that public safety improvements were needed in the area. We based our ‘go live’ date on temporary

station 6 on the school’s schedule. Unfortunately, our public works building (that will serve as a temporary station for about 3 years) and the improvements to Stonecrest Dr. have delayed our temporary occupancy at that facility. Thankfully, Argyle ISD has allowed for us to utilize the apartment at the middle school in the meantime.

Thoughts about the reception?

It was an honor to be recognized by ISD staff and the PTO and to be welcomed with open arms into a unique relationship between the district and the Town, which includes a fire station.

Thoughts about the fire fighters and how they are being housed at AMS, maybe how they can impact students while they are there.

During our stay at AMS, the officers and their firefighters have been charged with making an impression with the students to include life and career choices and to generally serve as mentors.

Brandon Barth Emergency Management Officer for Flower Mound What is your role with The Flower Mound Fire Department?

I am the Emergency Management Officer, but my other duty as assigned is Public Information Officer.

How long will they be there?

The temporary site at the school will likely be utilized until sometime in November.

What areas do they service?

The station 6 service area will cover about 18 square miles and will allow for decreased response times for our residents as well as those living in the adjacent county service areas. Previously, response times in this area were 10 mins or more. This location will also benefit our mutual aid responses throughout southwestern Denton County.

Thoughts about the reception We have all been humbled by the hospitality and generosity of the staff, parents, and students of Argyle Middle School.

The effort that was placed forth with the reception to welcome us into the AISD family was a class act.

Fall / Winter 2016 • Argyle Insights •

25

Argyle

Community Carnival

A Great

Success

A

rgyle Middle School principal, Scott Gibson, was eager to start the school year on his new campus at 6601 Canyon Falls Drive for many reasons – the gleaming state of the art facility, his outstanding staff and students that included a new grade level, and the vision of his newly formed Parent Teacher Organization.

It wasn’t long until an idea began to germinate with the PTO fundraising team to capitalize on the beautiful AMS grounds – a perfect place to host an Argyle community wide carnival. Vice President of Fundraising, Gina Bunnell, and Executive Board member, Jane Krzysiak, mused about ways to bring a carnival back to Argyle.

Both had heard about the special memories of carnivals from the past. The excitement of the new campus coupled with an open Friday evening due to a varsity football bye seemed like a recipe for success. It wasn’t long until PTO member, Jayne Kraus, joined the planning team to turn the vision into a reality.

The response to a Carnival was overwhelming in more ways than one, according to Mrs. Bunnell.

“We had many strong supporters, most importantly Mr. Gibson. He was a champion of this idea right from the start and went to Dr. (Telena) Wright, who gave us the green light.

26

• Argyle Insights • Fall / Winter 2016

We literally made the decision to run with the Carnival idea right as school was ending last year.

This didn’t leave much time for planning. We did meet over the summer a couple of times and had so many AMS PTO members who signed on to help with sponsorships and vendors. AMS and AHS students helped set up the event by filling coolers with drinks and ice, organizing concessions, moving tables, setting up games and offering extra hands to whomever needed them.

Because of their involvement, we were ready for the event to start at 6:00 pm.”

Mrs. Kraus led logistics and vendor planning and was able to rely on her past event planning experience.

“We faced many challenges in the planning stages, such as parking, traffic, safety, weather contingencies, and the unloading of more than 85 vendors during carline. We greatly appreciated the advice of the Flower Mound Fire Department, Flower Mound Police, and Argyle ISD Police Chief Cairney in the planning stages.

Although it was a little hectic, all the vendors made their way to their booth locations and set

up wonderful attractions to entertain hundreds of people. The CareFlight Helicopter and Argyle Fire Department Drones were a big hit. With the assistance of so many community partners, and the hard work by all the vendors, the Carnival was definitely a success,” Jayne Kraus stated.

Others agreed.

“Pam Arrington was a critical component to our PR piece and was always willing to go the extra mile with idea generation, as well as, getting the word out,” reported Jane Krzysiak.

“We lucked out with fantastic weather and it literally felt like the entire town of Argyle was

there at some point in the evening. We are extremely grateful to our sponsors, many who signed on early to support this endeavor. We had over $12,000 in underwriting sponsorships, led by ReMax North Texas team, our title sponsor, and many in kind donations. Businesses were able to have tables at the carnival and introduce their products and services to several hundred community members. Another important piece of the event was the ability for local clubs and organizations to run an activity booth and raise money and awareness for their groups.

Early counts show approximately $4,100 was raised by these groups and that does not include any retail sales they had. That is a win-win for all!

Hopefully, the Carnival continues and becomes a legacy event.”

To see the Argyle Community Carnival come to fruition was extremely gratifying because it was a wonderful night for the school and the community. A huge shout out and thank you to the many, many volunteers who worked countless hours before and during the event. Special thanks to the numerous businesses, AISD staff and families who partnered with AMS PTO to create this successful event.

Fall / Winter 2016 • Argyle Insights •

27

Tina Shobe AMS Counselor &

Breast Cancer

Survivor

Argyle Middle School

ROBOTICS CLUB

What role do you play in the planning of “Think Pink”?

Ordering/selling the shirts that are the sole source of raising money for donating.

What does the event mean to you personally?

Honored knowing that I can give back to those that have endured this horrible disease / plus, I am a survivor as well.

How much money was raised last year?

For the past 4 years, we have raised and donated $5,000 each year.

How does this event impact others in our community?

It gives them a chance to give back, come together with a common goal for the community and also honor our cancer warriors.

What are your hopes for the event?

Continually bring awareness and just reassure that we are here as a community to help in any way we can.

Explain what will take place the week of “Think Pink”.

Community Dinner / Pink Out Pep Rally / Pink Out Game. This year’s shirt was designed by 3 Seniors whose mom’s battled breast cancer.

28

• Argyle Insights • Fall / Winter 2016

Argyle

SPIRIT

WEEK

A

t any Texas school, homecoming is a big deal. This is especially true at Argyle Middle School since it shares facilities with the high school. During the week of homecoming, October 19th through the 23rd, Spirit Week was celebrated with each day designated as “Spirit” days. Students were invited to dress up based on the themes made by the high school Student Council with middle school following their school Spirit.

Almost every middle school student participated! Our Spirit Week dress up days were mathlete vs. athlete, tacky tourist, country vs. country club, color wars, and our school colors

Parents!

Hello Eagle

W

e have had a fantastic start to the school year! Our theme this year is “We Are Argyle.” The focus of our staff is building positive relationships with our students, parents, community, and each other. Together, through these relationships, we will work to continue a high level of success in all areas of our school.

Our school will continue to grow in numbers, and as we do, it is important that we foster relationships to ensure that we keep our small community feel. It is vital that we know each of our kids extremely well so that we can meet their needs, help them find a place to get plugged in, and build upon their strengths so that they find success. One way that we are working towards these goals is through our new block lunch program.

Mega Lunch will begin in October. Students will have a one hour block to eat lunch.

However, Mega Lunch is not just about eating lunch for an hour. Students will have an opportunity to receive tutoring, get involved in clubs and extracurricular activities, get their homework done, exercise, relax, and socialize. Oftentimes our students’ busy schedules prevent them from joining a club or from attending tutorial times that they need.

All of our teachers will have tutoring times throughout the week during lunch for students to come in for extra help. In addition, we have several clubs and activities that will meet during lunch. Students will have the freedom to choose which activities they will attend and when they go to tutoring as long as they are making good choices. However, Mega Lunch is a privilege. If students are not passing their courses, nor are they attending tutorials, or if they are experiencing poor attendance or making negative behavior choices, they will lose their Mega Lunch privilege. We are hoping that our students will embrace the program, receive the extra help they need from teachers, and become more involved in school activities.

Finally, we were fortunate to recently receive

our school’s seventh (and fifth in a row) Lone Star Cup for earning the most UIL points out of any Class 4A high school in Texas last school year. The Lone Star Cup is special because it represents success in all areas of our school: academics, fine arts, and athletics. I am so proud of the hard work that our staff and students have put in, and I am extremely grateful for the great support our students and school receive from our parents and community. It is with this support and through positive relationships that we will continue to be successful for years to come.

WE ARE ARGYLE! James Hill Principal Argyle High School

Fall / Winter 2016 • Argyle Insights •

29

t e e M

X E T unt

ina H

stor y

Da d by: mitte

sub

T

ex is a Californian Rabbit that is currently being trained at Argyle High School in the STEP classroom to become a Therapy Bunny.

Tex has about 6 months of training ahead of him to earn his Therapy Bunny status. Once Tex is certified, transition students will take him to visit residents at local nursing homes and retirement centers.

Through the use of Tex, students with

30

• Argyle Insights • Fall / Winter 2016

disabilities will be able to connect with these residents and build relationships.

Conner Bateman is the first AHS STEP student to work on this adventure.

In addition to building bridges with the community, Tex is also teaching STEP students about responsibilities and the environment.

Students are expected to provide for Tex’s care on a daily basis in school. The students clean his cage, feed him, water him, and give him ample socialization opportunities.

In science, Tex’s needs are tied into the Johnny Stallings Learning Garden which is a garden on the AHS Campus that was created last year, giving students a more global understanding of biology and the world in which we live. “The social opportunities that are possible through Tex are exciting for our students with disabilities.” “Tex opens doors with his presence and gives our students a platform to approach other people in an appropriate social manner,” said Hunt.

D&L in Denton donated the cage and bedding to help the STEP program provide secured lodging for Tex when he stays at

school. Mrs. Hunt, the STEP class instructor at AHS said, “The possibilities that Tex brings to the classroom are endless and exciting!”

“D&L’s support helped us make these opportunities possible.”

Pictured above: Mrs. Hunt and her STEP class students with Tex. Pictured right: Mrs. Hunt and her student Connor Bateman and Tex. Pictures by: Pamela Arrington

Support Y YOUR ARGYLE ROBOTICS TEAM! Your local AHS students are seeking support for the CoCo (Collin County) BEST Robotics Competition!

our support will aid students in their pursuit of knowledge in engineering, programming, technology, and marketing skills.

Students will compete to build a robot that will aid farmers in cultivation, harvesting, and distribution of crops.

This is a very fast paced competition, and only lasts 6 weeks! Please join us at Prosper High School on October 22nd from 8am to 5pm!

Your support will allow for advertisement on our robot, and at our display booth. There are over 50 teams competing, and we cannot do it without your help!

If interested, or in need of more information, please contact Ashley Allen at aallen@argyleisd.com, or call at 940.368.5303.

Donations may be made payable to AHS Academics, with memo “Robotics.”

LADY EAGLES Fall Softball T

he 2016 Fall Ball Softball season has been great. They have had beautiful weather and after three weeks of games the Lady Eagles are undefeated. Come out and watch each Wednesday for 5:30 and 7:15 games between Argyle, Lake Dallas, Denton, Aubrey, and Pilot Point.

Come hungry and enjoy fresh hot dogs, nachos, popcorn, chips, and candy. The Fall Ball season is expected to continue into December. While you’re at the game, pick up one of their new Car Sun Visors. The team is selling these high quality Mylar sun visors to raise money for the spring season. They are a universal size to fit most cars and include two built in suction cups and two bungee straps for easy storage.

Pick one up at the game or request one by email to argylesoftball@gmail.com for delivery. They are only $25 each.

A must have for any Argyle Eagle fan!

SUPPORT THE TEAM!

Order Your Sun Visors Today!

Support Your Teacher GOING OVER THE

EDGE H

ello, My name is Daina Hunt and for those unfamiliar with me, I am the STEP Teacher at Argyle High School – and I’m Going Over the Edge! Last year, I was able to raise $1,900 for Special Olympics.

Please support me this year as I jump Over the Edge yet again!

Join me in my adventure to rappel off the side of a high-rise building. I need to raise a minimum of $1,200 to Go Over the Edge and support Special Olympics Texas.

Special Olympics Texas is a nonprofit organization that provides year-round sports training and athletic competition in a variety of Olympic-type sports for over 51,000 children and adults with intellectual disabilities.

This organization is very special to me which is why I’m willing to take that step off the ledge and rappel 20 stories down a building. Special Olympics supports my students, allowing individuals with special needs to participate in an incredible array of sports and competition! My student athletes are brave and amazing and now it’s my turn to support them!

This year, the Argyle ISD is continuing to grow it’s own Special Olympics program. What better way to recognize these athletes than to send their teacher “Over the Edge?!”

Please help me in my support of Special Olympics Texas and donate to a cause that is willing to go Over the Edge. http://sotx.convio.net/goto/DainaHunt Thanks in advance for your support.

Sincerely, Daina Z Hunt, STEP Teacher Special Education Department Chair Argyle ISD

Fall / Winter 2016 • Argyle Insights •

31

AHS Theatre

UPCOMING EVENTS Argyle’s 3rd Annual Haunted House “Chester’s House of Horrors” DATES: Oct. 28th-30th from 6:00-10:00pm PLACE: AHS Performing Arts Wing PRICE: $6.00 *Appropriate for ages 10 & up AHS Theatre Presents “TRIANGLE” DATES: Nov. 10th & 12th at 7:00 pm PLACE: AHS Performing Arts Auditorium TICKETS: Suggested Donation $5.00

TICKETS: $5.00 Students ; $8.00 Adults Pre-Sale tickets available at the Extravaganza on November 5th in the High School Kendra Scott Jewelry Argyle HS Extravaganza Benefiting Argyle HS Theatre November 5th, Saturday AHS Theatre Presents MURDER MYSTERY DINNER “MURDER AT THE MALT SHOP” DATE: May 2017 (Date, Place and Time to come)

AHS Theatre Presents “GREASE” THE MUSICAL DATES: January 19-21st at 7:00pm PLACE: AHS Performing Arts Auditorium

TENNIS

DISTRICT

CHAMPIONS

F

or the first time since 2011, and the first time as a Class 4A school, the Eagle tennis team has claimed a district championship. This is not by surprise. Your Argyle Eagles have worked tremendously hard from pre-season practices, mid-season and NOW! To say I am proud would be an understatement. These athletes have been through some tough practices and matches to gain the experience and knowledge to push on this season. And we are hopeful! Hopeful and willing to put in the extra work the next three weeks to take our tennis team farther than it has ever been in 4A Team Tennis.

Doubles Lyng/ Oellermann won 6-1, 6-1 Livingston and Zablosky won 6-3, 4-6, 1-0 (4) Brown and Sorensen won 6-1, 6-0 Hynek and Rigsby won 6-3, 6-4 Crawford and Block lost 3-6, 3-6 Rivero and Dvorsky lost 3-6, 3-6 Pilawski and Stanford won 6-1, 7-6 (0)

32

• Argyle Insights • Fall / Winter 2016

Singles Lyng lost a tough match 3-6, 3-6 Oellermann took her match 6-1, 6-1 Zablosky downed her opponent 6-0, 6-3 Livingston put up a hard fight but lost in a 3rd set tie-breaker 4-6, 7-6 (1), 0-1 (8) Sorensen won with ease 6-2, 6-1 Brown took on her opponent 8-5 Hynek fiercely defeated his opponent 6-0, 6-3 Rigsby was able to win 6-2, 6-1 Block put up a hard fought fight losing 3-6, 4-6 Jack Crawford- PLAYER OF THE GAMEalmost came from behind to win his first set but dropped it 4-6. Unwilling to give up, Jack defeated his opponent 7-6 (6) in the 2nd set and won 10-8 in a 3rd set tie-breaker. I am so proud of you Jack. Keep working hard!

Rivero won in straight sets 6-4, 6-4 Dvorsky lost a tough match 1-6, 0-6 OVERALL ARGYLE WON 14-5!

CLASS OF 2006

Ten Year Reunion

T

he Argyle High School graduating class of 2006 reunited during Homecoming to celebrate their ten year reunion.

Graduating with just a little over one hundred students and only the fourth graduating class of AHS, the students achieved great success during their senior year, racking up 2A State Championships in marching band and girl’s basketball, as well as state runner-up in football.

The year 2006 was also the first year that the school earned the prestigious Lone Star Cup, with awards and accolades in fine arts and academics making for well-rounded success.

For the Class of ‘06, the 2016 AHS Homecoming Weekend was filled with events in Argyle, including a tour of the high school by Mr Hill, a Letterman’s Reception prior to the football game, and reserved seating during the game. In a special moment, Hayley Malcuit - Creeser, former Homecoming Queen and ‘06 alum crowned this year’s queen. On Saturday, approximately 60 alumni gathered at Audacity Brew House in Denton to reminisce and renew friendships.

The Class of ‘07 is already making preparations for 2017 to carry on the reunion tradition!

Fall / Winter 2016 • Argyle Insights •

33

Homecoming Decorating

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• Argyle Insights • Fall / Winter 2016

On Wednesday, September 22 Argyle ISD kicked off its Homecoming 2016 celebration with a Parade of Champions, Community Pep Rally, and Bonfire. This year a new tradition was started with the parade being held inside Eagle Stadium. Instead of truck-pulled trailers and groups marching, each organization, team, or group that wanted to participate in the parade marched into the football stadium and was recognized at the 50-yard line. The homecoming court nominees were driven around the stadium in decorated golf carts. After the parade, a community pep rally was held that was then followed by the annual bonfire.

HOMECOMING

GAME September 23rd

Congratulations to Argyle Homecoming king and queen Garrett Carter and Erin Riley!

Visit our Argyle Insights facebook for more photos Fall / Winter 2016 • Argyle Insights •

35

MESSAGE FROM THE

I

COACH

n the spring of 1985, I had what I now know was a moment of clarity – an epiphany if you will. I was playing golf with my old high school golf coach, and somewhere in the course of those 18 holes, I began to notice something about this man. As I watched him and listened to him, I realized that this man really and truly loved what he did for a living. It wasn’t work for him. It really didn’t even seem like a job. He loved sports, he loved to teach, and it showed in almost everything he did. He was enjoying every day doing exactly what he loved and, yes, he even got paid to do it. It was at that very moment that I knew exactly what I wanted to do. I wanted to be a coach.

So, after a year in community college, I enrolled at Angelo State University, graduated three years later, and took my first coaching/ teaching job at Somerville High School.

It wasn’t as glamorous as I expected it to be. I realized quickly that there weren’t enough hours in the day, that the days were excruciatingly long, and that there was pressure to do “everything”.

Being a new teacher was nothing like what I thought I had observed as a high school athlete, but somehow I made it through it.

My second year was an improvement. I took a job at Rosebud-Lott High School. We were very successful in most sports. The coaching staff was generally older and mentored me over the course of the school year. They taught me by example what a strong work ethic was and how to apply it to such a demanding job. My time at Rosebud-Lott High School really motivated me to accelerate my career, and I next took a

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• Argyle Insights • Fall / Winter 2016

position as a graduate assistant football coach at the University of Texas, in Austin. Coaching Division I football radically accelerated my learning, and my experiences there cemented my career choice to coach for a living.

I made it my goal to learn each year how to better handle distractions and challenges that are inevitable in our business. I matured as a coach, as a teacher, and as a man. I worked for the next nine years at Flower Mound Marcus High School and was privileged to win a Class 5A state championship. My association with this achievement brought the opportunity to seek a head coach position, and I have been here in Argyle for the past 14 years truly doing what I love.

I am thankful everyday for the decisions I made and for the coaches that influenced my life, and especially for that day on the golf course so long ago. I think I have the greatest job in the world. I love the passion and responsibility that comes with being a head football coach and Athletic Director in Texas. I embrace the responsibility and I hold in esteem the influence that I have on young athletes. I know that is my “calling” and I’m certain that is the exact place God wanted me to be.

Todd Rodgers Athletic Director Head Football Coach

Lady EAGLE ATHLETICS

A Message from Athletic Director SkipTownsend

L

ady Eagle Athletics is excited to begin a new year, although 2015-2016 will be hard to top. But with state championships in volleyball, back to back state championships in basketball, a playoff soccer team, and a softball program with loads of new talent, it could even get better.

Don’t count out the cross country team, with many returning runners, and several new talented newcomers to make a run at the state meet. Golf and tennis’ annual appearances at the regional tourney look good, as well as regional qualifier individuals in track. Tradition runs high here in Argyle in Girls Athletics and so does our coaches’ expectations. Let’s get it on this year! It’s Argyle Lady Eagles vs. All Y’all!

Skip Townsend Girls Athletic Director

Argyle High School Student Featuring

Nico

Nico is a sophomore at Argyle High School and is involved in football and baseball at AHS. He is also involved in Challenge Day Club. Nico always has a smile on his face and is always very encouraging to others.

Mira

Mira is a junior at Argyle High School.

I am involved in the National Charity League and hold the positions of President of my class and Vice President of our high school UNICEF club. I am a National Honor Society member and have won two state titles as a member of the girls varsity basketball team. I was also student of the month my freshman year.

I love lifting others up and making them smile, as well as keeping a positive attitude.

Fall / Winter 2016 • Argyle Insights •

37

HIGH SCHOOL

SPORTS Schedules

Volleyball

Wrestling

DATE

OPPONENT

LOCATION

TEAM TIME

OCT 14

Gainesville

Gainesville

V, F/JV

5:00, 6:00

OCT 18

Krum

Argyle

F/JV, V

5:00, 6:00

OCT 21

Bridgeport

Argyle

V, F/JV

5:00, 6:00

OCT 25

Decatur

Argyle

F/JV, V

5:00, 6:00

OCT 31-NOV 1

Bi-District

TBD

V

TBD

NOV 3-5

Area

TBD

V

TBD

NOV 7-8

Regional Quarterfinal

TBD

V

TBD

NOV 11-12

Regional Tournament

Mesquite Poteet V

TBD

NOV 16-19

State Tournament

Garland

TBD

V

NOV 16 - Byron Nelson Dual Weigh-in 4:00 pm • Start 5:00 pm @ Byron Nelson HS NOV 18-19 - Talon Duals Weigh-in 7:00 am • Start 9:00 am @ Eaton HS NOV 30 - Grapevine Dual Weigh-in 4:30 pm • Start 5:30 pm @ Grapevine HS DEC 3 - Redhawk Duals Weigh-in 8:00 am • Start 9:00 am @ Frisco Liberty HS

Football

DEC 6 - Richland Dial Weigh-in 5:00 pm • Start 6:00 pm @ Argyle HS

9th & Junior Varsity DATE

OPPONENT

LOCATION BEGINS ENDS

OCT 13

Gainesville

Argyle

5:00

8:30

OCT 20

Sanger High School

Sanger

5:00

8:30

OCT 27

Wichita Falls Hirschi

Argyle

5:00

8:30

NOV 3

Burkburnett

Burkburnett

5:00

8:30

DATE

OPPONENT

LOCATION BEGINS ENDS

OCT 14

Gainesville

Gainesville

7:00

10:00

OCT 22

Sanger High School

Argyle

7:00

10:00

OCT 28

Wichita Falls Hirschi

Wichita Falls

7:00

10:00

NOV 4

Burkburnett

Argyle

7:00

10:00

Varsity

38

NOV 10 - Liberty Christian Dual Weigh-in 4:00 pm • Start 4:30 pm @ Liberty Christian HS

• Argyle Insights • Fall 2016

DEC 9-10 - Outback Invitational Weigh-in 10 am - 7 am Start 12pm - 9 am @ Weatherford HS ( JV - V ) DEC 15 - District Quad Weigh-in 5:00 pm • Start 6:00 pm @ Eaton HS JAN 5 - District Quad Weigh-in 5:00 pm • Start 6:00 pm @ Springtown HS JAN 6-7 - Lamar Invite Weigh-in 3 pm - 7:30 am Start 5 pm - 9 am @ Arlington Lamar HS

Basketball DATE

OPPONENT

LOCATION

FRESH JV

VAR

NOV 8

Keller Timber Creek

Argyle

5:00

5:00

NOV 12

Frisco Wakeland

Frisco Wakeland

TBA

TBA

TBA

NOV 15

Liberty Christian

Argyle

5:00

6:15

7:30

NOV 22

Kennedale

Kennedale

5:00

6:15

7:30

NOV 29

Boswell

Boswell

4:30

6:00

7:30

DEC 1-3

Lake Worth Tournament

Lake Worth

TBA

TBA

DEC 1-3

Fairfield Tournament

Fairfield

TBA

DEC 6

Denton High

Denton High

5:00

5:00

6:30

DEC 8-10

Princeton Tournament

Princeton

TBA

TBA

TBA

DEC 13

Lipan

Argyle

6:00

7:30

DEC 16

Midlothian Heritage

Midlothian

5:00

6:15

7:30

DEC 19

Brock

Argyle

11:00

12:15

1:30

DEC 28-30

Whataburger Tournament

TBA

JAN 3

Ponder

Argyle

5:00

6:15

7:30

JAN 6

Graham

Argyle

6:30

5:00

8:00

FRESH JV

CONGRATS! AHS Golf Team

GOLF STATE CHAMPIONS FOR THE SECOND YEAR IN A ROW! Argyle golf team finished top 10 in Texarkana against some strong 5A and 6A schools.

Lady Eagles DATE

OPPONENT

LOCATION

NOV 1

Sachse Scrimmage

Sachse

5:30

5:30

NOV 5

Brock, Liberty, Ryder

Argyle

TBA

TBA

TBA

NOV 8

Venus

Venus

5:00

6:30

6:30

NOV 15

Grapevine

Grapevine

5:00

6:00

7:30

NOV 17-19

Flower Mound Tournament Flower Mound

NOV 17-19

Burleson Centennial

Burleson

TBA

TBA

NOV 22

Little Elm

Little Elm

5:00

5:00

NOV 26

Frisco Liberty @ Nike Hoopfest

Duncanville

TBA

NOV 29

Kennedale

Argyle

7:30

DEC 1-3

Jack Frost Tournament

Georgetown

DEC 1-3

Byron Nelson Tournament Byron Nelson

DEC 6

Ranchview

Ranchview

5:00

DEC 8-10

Era Varsity Tournament

Era

TBA

DEC 9

Prosper

Argyle

DEC 13

Dallas Christian

Argyle

5:00

6:30

DEC 19

Frisco Lonestar

Frisco

10:30

12:00

DEC 27-30

Springfield MO Tournament Springfield MO

5:00 TBA

6:00

TBA 6:30

TBA

TBA

5:00 10:30

VAR

6:30 6:30

Band OCT 22 - TBD UIL Region Marching Contest @ Northwest ISD Stadium OCT 29 - TBD UIL Area Marching Contest @ TBD NOV 06 - 08 - All Day UIL State Marching Contest @ San Antonie DEC 3 - TBD Region Band Auditions @ TBD DEC 12 - 6 pm to 9 pm Winter Concert @ Auditorium

TBA

Fall 2016 • Argyle Insights •

39

AHS

BASS TEAM

T

here is a new club at Argyle High School called the AHS Bass Team. They have 24 anglers and 12 captains and many sponsors.

The team had their first tournament on Lake Lewisville on Sept. 24th and their students did very well! Before the tournament they had a parent/angler meeting where they had a guest speaker Dana Gage, founder of The LV Project. Dana lost a son to drowning and she promotes water safety by wearing life jackets.

Dana took time to speak to the AHS Bass Team about the importance of water safety and wearing life vests.

The AHS Bass Team is a part of the Texas High School Bass Association.

Student Team Members Are: President- Kaden Roberts- JR Vice President- Luke Thompson- JR Secretary- Scotty Dunham- JR Treasurer- Michael Rigsby- JR

What Is 4-H All About?

4-H

is a community of young people across America who are learning leadership, citizenship and life skills. 4-H is about having fun, learning, exploring and discovering. In 4-H, young people make new friends, develop new skills, become leaders and help shape their communities.

More than 65,000 Texas youth are enrolled members of 4-H community clubs in Texas. Another 850,000 Texas youth get involved in 4-H through special educational opportunities at school, in after school programs, or at neighborhood or youth centers.

These youth live in cities, suburbs, small towns and rural communities.

4-H gives them a chance to pursue their own interests – from photography to

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• Argyle Insights • Fall / Winter 2016

computers, from building rockets to raising sheep. A list of 4-H projects is available online.

They go places – to camp, to state and national conferences. They learn to be leaders and active citizens.

In 4-H clubs, they serve as officers and learn to conduct meetings, handle club funds, and facilitate group decision-making. In a growing number of communities, 4-H youth serve as youth representatives in municipal or county government or as members of Teen Courts. They give back to their communities. 4-H members get involved in volunteer projects to protect the environment, mentor younger children and help people who are less fortunate.

Jackson Adams- SR Jameson Shaw- SR Cody Allcorn- SR Brian Massey-SR Greg Stringfellow- JR Connor Repp- JR Wade Pennington-SR Brett Lundy- SR Garrett Carter- SR Connor Mushinski-SR Lee DeMarsh-FR Michael Cosentino- FR Bryson Hudgens- JR Caleb Halvorson-SR Garrett Thomas- JR Chase Estrada-JR John Yonce- JR Mason Thrash-JR Marshall Thrash-FR Chris Yonce-FR

Teaching LEADERSHIP Through PALS article and photo by Pam Arrington

Mr. Sutton wanted to start this class because he thinks it has real potential to make a huge difference within the community. “Lots of students within our community have been blessed with good parents and a good home life, but I think there are also still plenty of students who need that older role model to look up to.” “I think PALS provides that for those kids,” said Sutton. He also thinks being a PAL will be a huge growing experience for the high school students who are in his class. “It will really get them out of their comfort zone, as well as give them the opportunity to leave a legacy in the community that they live in.”

Due to the PALS program being new they are trying to build their

P

program financially. They are ALS is a new Peer Assistance and Leadership course offered this year

needing to raise money for field

at Argyle High School for students who are interested in leadership,

trips, conferences, training sessions,

being a positive role model to others, and teaching. Peer Helpers

work with grades K-5 in a variety of ways to promote good decision-making skills and to exemplify what it means to be a positive role model. Each Peer Helper must make and keep a drug free commitment for the duration of the course. Emphasis is placed on behavior that is congruent with positive peer pressure as role models and awareness of this responsibility is crucial.

There are 20 students in the PALS class

is called the “service delivery” portion of the

at AHS. Mr. Lance Sutton is the instructor

course. For the remainder of the year, the class

for the class. He trains students in the

will go to other campuses and start mentoring

areas of; leadership skills, communication

and getting to know younger students. They will

techniques, team building, decision-making skills,

spend Mondays at the High School, Tuesdays

self-awareness, risk factors, and confidentiality.

and Thursdays they will be at Hilltop, and

After the first 6 weeks, the class will start what

Wednesdays they will be at AIS.

t-shirts, and various materials that they will need to take with them to the other campuses they visit (like board games, basketballs, etc.). The PALS monetary goal is to raise $5,000.

They have currently raised $2,215.

Support this organization and donate today at gofundme.com/AHSPALS

Fall / Winter 2016 • Argyle Insights •

41

Our Hearts S A STAR IN

hoot for the Stars has become an annual Argyle community event, given in memory of Alex Betzhold, who passed

of the UIL Number Sense team. To top the

sticker represents not only Alex but the great

list of Alex’s honors and activities, the Betzhold

love shown by the Argyle community. The star

family is most thankful that he is a Christian

itself is a reminder of the shooting star that

away in January 2012 at the age of 13 due to

and was active in the Argyle Methodist Church

many in the community believe was God’s way

an undiagnosed heart condition. The event

youth program, Wyldlife, and FCA. Alex’s love

of bringing comfort during one of life’s many

was named after a shooting star that inspired

for his two sisters (Claire

tragedies,” said Steve Betzhold.

a crowd who had gathered for a prayer vigil

and Sophie), his parents,

Through their journey

for Alex shortly after his passing. The event’s

friends, teammates and

of grief, the Betzholds have

organizers were Steve and Julie Sheridan,

classmates will always

come to believe that “ God

who by honoring Alex, brought awareness

be remembered.

first sends people” as a

to the importance of youth heart screenings.

Alex has not been

source of comfort to those

Today, along with free/reduced youth heart

forgotten by his peers as

in need. “We will always

screenings, the event has grown to include

part of this year’s Class

be grateful to the Argyle

a 3-on-3 basketball tournament, vendors, an

of 2017 seniors. The

community for the ongoing

evening music festival at Fuzzy’s, an auction

seniors of the Argyle High

ways they have supported us

and various other school and community

School football team,

and shown love to our family

sponsored events.

led by captains Casey

during our journey apart

Harper, Dane Ledford,

from Alex.” At Argyle High’s

student at Argyle Middle School. He enjoyed

Jack Williams and Pierce

first football home opener,

multiple sports,including football, basketball

Davies, initiated placing a

Mary Betzhold recalls how

and baseball while playing the trumpet in the

Shoot for the Stars logo sticker on the back

she and her husband, Steve, scanned the field

AMS band. Academics were a strong suit of

of every helmet worn by each member of the

looking for players who might resemble the

Alex’s and he received various awards as part

varsity team. “The A in the center of the star

height and look that Alex would have if he

Alex was a very active seventh grade

42

• Argyle Insights • Fall / Winter 2016

were seen playing today. A sense of dismay hung over them until they just happened to stand directly by the team as they ran to the fieldhouse at halftime. Their eyes followed the boys as they ran by and astonishingly every sticker on the back of each player’s helmet.

Instantaneously joy filled their hearts and they watched the second half realizing that Alex was still out on the field... in the heart of each player.

“These boys are very special to us,” Steve Betzhold said. “Not just because they were Alex’s teammates but because they are truly a unique group of caring and loving individuals.

We are honored to know these kids and to see how God has used them for his glory in such a multitude of ways. He has great plans for them and we are very blessed to have witnessed these years watching them grow. We will always remember the great admiration Alex had for his teammates and know that a glorious reunion awaits us all.”

Fall / Winter 2016 • Argyle Insights •

43

, y Johnson om Kath usic , Argyle ISD fr s te a d Band Up f Instrumental M o Director

THE 7 COUNTRY CONCERT TOUR This summer 31 Argyle Band students and parents joined forces with schools from the surrounding area to become the Texas Lone Star Ambassadors of Music. Over 16 days this summer, this group visited and performed in seven countries throughout Europe. Concerts were very well attended and audiences were very appreciative of the musical talents of these students. Countries visited were England, France, Switzerland, Austria, Italy, Lichtenstein, and Germany. Argyle band students had an amazing experience and made many new friends. (band students pictured right)

ALL-REGION JAZZ BAND High school band students will be auditioning for the All-Region Jazz Band on September 17th and will perform their concert on November 19th. The Plano Drum Line Competition will be held on September 24th at Clark Stadium in Plano. The All-Region Concert Band auditions are on Saturday, December 3rd and is the beginning of the journey to the Texas All-State Band. The clinic/ concert is held here at Argyle High School on January 13th & 14th. Area auditions are on January 7th here in Argyle, and the students selected for the All-State Band will travel to San Antonio in February for the clinic/concert.

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• Argyle Insights • Fall / Winter 2016

MARCHING COMPETITIONS BEGIN The High School Marching Band will began its competitive season on Saturday, October 1st at the Golden Triangle Marching Contest.

On October 8th, the Eagle Band will compete at the Little Elm Marching Festival. The UIL Marching competitions begin on October 22nd with the region level, followed by October 29th with the area level, and finally on November 7th in San Antonio with the state level. The Argyle Eagle Marching Band will be defending a state title that they have held since 2008. Argyle is the only 4A high school band in the history of UIL to hold the state title 8 consecutive years.

UIL SHOW This fall has been fast and furious! The high school band has been rehearsing since the summer and is gradually getting their UIL Contest Show on the field at the football games. This year’s field production is titled iGeneration and is a representation of how technology has developed and enhanced our lives. (rehearsal pictured below)

AHS COMMENDED WINNER Over the summer the Argyle High School Wind Ensemble was selected as the State Runner-up for the Texas State Honor Band competition. This is the concert band version of the State Marching Band Contest. The band’s recording went placed first at both the region and area levels of the contest on the way to the state level. In addition, the Wind Ensemble was named Commended Winner in the 2016 Mark of Excellence National Wind Band Honors project.

PICCOLO PLAYERS PLAYING

EVENTS from Argyle High School

Teacher & Staff of the Month

On July 4th, piccolo students from all around Texas joined forces with the Dallas Winds to set a world record for the most piccolo players playing our National March, “The Stars and Stripes Forever”. Piccolo students from the Argyle High School Band represented Argyle well!

Mrs. Truenbach is the Teacher of the Month and Mrs. Lemish is Staff of the Month

LED WRIST BANDS While you are in the stands at the football games, you may notice fans wearing LED bands on their wrists. This is something new that the band boosters are doing to engage the fans in the football game and in the half-time show.

These bands will be programmed to light up in a variety of different patterns when the football team scores a touchdown, completes an extra point kick or a conversion, and each time they make a first down. During the half-time show this year, we plan to have the wristbands sync with

the lights that we will be using in the field production so that everyone can participate.

In addition, we will set them up to work at the high school pep rallies. We will use the wristbands at both home and away games and would like to see the entire Argyle side of all stadiums shine bright for the Eagles.

These wristbands will be available through the Argyle Band Boosters and will be offered at games and during lunches at all schools.

Congratulations!

A

rgyle High School Students Max Macwhorter and Matthew Castle were honored as National Merit Semi-Finalists. In addition, Mariah Bach, Joshua Block, Gentry Cole, Brooke Daniel, David Davis, Haylee Holt, and Jacob Merrill were all commended. Kevin Thomas was the National Hispanic Scholar.

In the picture from left to right: Brooke Daniel, Matthew Castle, Max McWhorter, Joshua Block, David Davis, Kevin Thomas, Mariah Bach, Jacob Merrill, and Haylee Holt. Not pictured - Gentry Cole

Fall / Winter 2016 • Argyle Insights •

45

EAGLE PRIDE A

rgyle Eagle Spirit is something we take great pride in here in Argyle. Whether you are attending an AHS Pep Rally, cheering at a football game from the stands or attending another Argyle High School sporting event, you are sure to see the Argyle Eagle dancing, cheering on the sidelines, posing for pictures, or giving hugs to all of the little Argyle fans.

The sight of the Argyle Eagle on the sidelines brings spirit and pride to those in the stands.

So who is the person behind the Argyle Eagle mascot suit who brings us the Eagle Spirit?

None other than AHS sophomore, Gracie Arthur. Gracie has been the mascot for Argyle High School for 2 years. When you ask Gracie about being the mascot, she will tell you that it is something that she never thought she would do. But one day at the end of her eighth grade year, she had a conversation with AHS nurse Sherrie Thompson. Gracie said nurse Thompson was the one who convinced her to try out for mascot. Gracie’s talent in dancing, acting, and creating skits set her apart from the rest and have made her an ideal fit for the AHS school mascot.

“I love being the mascot because it allows me to hang out with all of the Eagle fans.

Argyle has a great fan base and everyone has great Spirit. Oh.... and dancing, I love to dance,” Gracie said.

When asked what the hardest thing about being mascot is, she will quickly reply that it is the heat. The temperature inside the suit averages about 20 degrees hotter than the temperature outside. Oftentimes, kids will also pull, poke, and hit THE Eagle, and because of this Gracie has someone who takes care of her at the events – her mascot handler whom she is very thankful for.

Gracie’s favorite event that she’s performed at was the Citrus Bowl in

46

• Argyle Insights • Fall / Winter 2016

“It’s going to be a great show!” Gracie said.

Orlando, FL. Gracie’s freshman year, at “The show will be on Jan 19, 20, and 21.” cheerleading camp, she won the award Gracie went on to say that her theater of All American Mascot. With teacher, Mrs. Toomer, is a wonderful that award she was invited Instagram: teacher and really pushes her and her to perform at the Citrus the_argyle_eagle fellow actors to try things outside of Bowl on New Year’s Day. Twitter: their comfort level.

Gracie said the event was @argyle_eagle “I love being The Argyle Eagle! Again, a great experience. Equal it’s something that I never thought I to that experience, Gracie would do, but I’ve enjoyed every minute also has fond memories of of it.......except the Texas heat!,” Gracie said. cheering at the state title games So if you see the Eagle on the sidelines, in a for football, volleyball and girls basketball. She pep rally, or at any AISD event, make sure you said those were very exciting games. take time to thank her for what she does to When Gracie is not playing the role of the bring that extra spirit to the events.

Argyle Eagle, she is fully involved in everything Please follow the Eagle on Instagram related to theater. Gracie enjoys acting, singing, and Twitter dancing, and her favorite, FX makeup. She is Instagram: the_argyle_eagle very excited about this year’s AHS Theatre Twitter: @argyle_eagle performance of Grease, where she plays the role of Jan.