Argyle ISD Insights - Spring/Summer 2017

SPRING/SUMMER 2017

Leaving a

Legacy The Official Magazine of the Argyle Independent School District

Career Week Jan. 30th with Career Day being Feb. 3rd During Career week, students participated in theme days including Career Hat Day, College Spirit Day, and the Dress for Success Day where they wore professional attire to meet with guests. Thirty-one professionals from our community had the opportunity to speak to nine different classrooms and share their career experiences and advice.

Spring / Summer 2017 • Argyle Insights •

3

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

Chris Daniel Assistant Superintendent

Renee Funderburg Argyle Intermediate School Principal

Elizabeth Stewart Chief Financial Officer

Mandi Murphy Hilltop 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 Cairney AISD Police Chief

John Bitter Vice President

Jeff Day Member

Steven Moore Member

Jeff Williams Member

4

Dr. Telena Wright Superintendent

• Argyle Insights • Spring / Summer 2017

Spring / Summer 2017 • Argyle Insights •

5

TABLE OF PUBLISHERS Scott & Kelly Murray

Hilltop Elementary

37

8 Mrs. Murphy’s Message

38 High School Band

10 Kindergarten Program

42 Lady Eagles Basketball

10

43 Congrats to Weitzer & Sheridan

10 Annual Book Fair

46 Argyle Eagles Basketball

12

13 All Dogs Love Reading

CONTRIBUTORS Pamela Arrington Argyle ISD Steve Gamel Susan Neuhalfen

ON THE COVER

ADVERTISING Kelly Murray kelly@murray-media.com

National Read Across America Day

Coach Townsend Retires

Chess Tournament

Argyle Intermediate

12 Air Force Major John Farquhar

15 Message from Mrs. Funderburg

18 Argyle Nights

Classmates and teammates of Alex Betzhold honor him and his #35 jersey.

See additional information about his teammates on page 26.

Argyle Middle School

16 Greetings from Mr. Gibson

18 Debate Club

18 Practicing for Discus

20 Hog Hearts & Cow Eyes

20 Volleyball

20 Spring Fling

20 Track Meet

21 Middle School Band

22 Archery Merritt Hawkesworth

22 Metric Olympics

22 Top 10 at AHS

22 Cheer Banquet

23

Asa Ward Wins Wrestling Division 3

Argyle High School

4 Argyle Board of Trustees

4 Get to Know AISD

7 Message from AISD Superintendent

9 PTO & PTA News

14 A.E.F. 12th Annual Gala

19 Career Day

28 Congrats to Annabel Thorpe

28 Chief Paul Cairney

31 UIL Sponsor Excellence Award

36 H-E-B Excellence in Education Awards

24

26 Hello from Mr. Hill

39 Archery Team Goes to Nationals

26 FLIGHT – Honors Alex Betzhold

40 Giving Credit Where Credit is Due

27 National Merit Scholarship Program

44 Summer Sports Camps

28 Hennes Becomes Eagle Scout

29 Coach Perkins – Basketball Q&A

30

31 TMSCA State Meet

32 Lady Eagles Softball 2017 Season

12 Daddy Daughter Dance

33 Michael Hope Day

33 AHS PTO Luncheon

34 Building a Foundation - Choir 2017

35 Night to Shine

36 Roth – State Wrestling Champion

43 Argyle High School Varsity Baseball

6

Competitive Shooting Team

District News

Fine Arts Showcase

• Argyle Insights • Spring / Summer 2017

Photo Pages 3

Career Week

EDITORS Jana Melton Bobbi Byrne

PRODUCTION Art Director Lizeth Wallace Graphic Designers 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 August 9th, 2017 Address: 1011 Surrey Lane Building 100, Ste. 101 Flower Mound, TX 75022

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. © 2017 Murray Media Group. www.Murray-Media.com

A Message

from Dr. Telena Wright, Argyle ISD Superintendent

Financial advisers from RBC, Julie McMillan and Matt Boles, gave information to the committee regarding the capacity of the District to issue bonds and information on when the issues could be made.

Girls’ basketball won their third straight state championship in March. Boys’ basketball made a trip to state for the first time since 2012; the team lost the semi-final game by only one point after holding a high scoring

T

he May 6 passing of a bond in AISD for $166,000,000 will allow the

Much information was considered. Making

team to 46 points.

Tennis won district this year. Soccer boys’

clear the differences in the boundaries of

District to build two elementary schools, add

and girls’ teams advanced into playoffs with

the Town of Argyle, the ETJ, and the Argyle

12 classrooms to the current high school,

boys going to regional semi-finals and girls to

ISD; Argyle Town Manager Paul Frederickson

complete Phase II of the MS/Future HS,

area. Six track and field athletes are headed

and Argyle Mayor Peggy Krueger presented

build a new transportation center, add 10

to state, and the boys’ golf team will be

information to the group.

playing at state May 22-23.

buses for replacement and growth, enhance technology, renovate current buildings, and build a new administration building.,This has been a busy Spring with the facilities/bond committee meeting October -February, the Board calling a bond election February 13, and presentations for the bond being held.

There are six action teams that have been working on the District’s new strategic plan and gave presentations to the strategic plan team on April 24. The facilities/instructional team began work in October. As their

For five years AISD has used Bob Templeton as a demographer. AISD has a specific researcher assigned to the district

The HS UIL team won district, regional, and state meets.

AISD has seven staff members retiring this

who works diligently to keep up with all of

year and will host a retirement reception

the housing developments approved by the

from 4:00-6:00 p.m. at the HS on May 23 for

various town councils. Trent Smith is the researcher for AISD; he presented to the facilities/bond committee also.

Twice a year the District receives an update on enrollment projections.

Skip Townsend, Sammye Townsend, Jan Steger, Cliff McCurdy, Brenda Spain, Jim Hash, and Debra Drake.

Architects from Corgan who have

meetings continued, an expansion of the

worked with the District on design put

group into a facilities/bond committee

together a capacity analysis that showed

occurred. The facilities/bond committee met

the points at which the District enrollment

each week during January and early February.

would exceed capacity.

Dr. Telena Wright Argyle Superintendent

Have Photos/Events You Would Like to Promote?

If you have suggestions for student/teacher spotlights, local events or special news to share send you suggestions to artwork@argyleinsights.com by August 9th, 2017!

Spring / Summer 2017 • Argyle Insights •

7

, Mrs. Murphy s Message from Hilltop

S

pring is here! Along with the flowers came

parents compared to other schools’

their child; however we do not take teacher

allergies, storms, sports, and tests. A storm

students, teachers, and parents ~

requests. Giving me a list of strengths and

HILLTOP’S ARE THE BEST!

weaknesses, concerns about your child’s

seems like a bad deal until you read their exciting stories in journal entries about brave

With that being said, that should be our

moms and dads, hail the size of a giants eyeball,

primary focus. Everyone should do their

the joy of being stuck together in a pantry

best to raise us all up. Regardless of any one

closet with all the snacks! Allergies seem to

score, we all help each other out. There is no

be the end of everything good until you hear a

pressure on one person or one question. We

class of children say, “Bless you!” to the sneezer.

are a team above all.

Life is all about enjoying the events we can,

PTA

and supporting one another until we find the

We are grateful for the work and time PTA

positive in the tough situations. All of this, can

volunteers put in to make Hilltop great. When

be the big lessons taking place at Hilltop in

you are looking for a way to connect, this is

the Spring.

a productive way to do it! I am especially

learning, and social environment help me make a better decision about where each child is for the next year. Thankfully our teachers are always learning too. They plan together, train together, and they seek conferences that build unique skills that they can share so they are never the same year to year. They are consistently improving instruction for the students who become their very own. There is so much that goes into planning a classroom,

Testing

looking to connect with our parents that are

please feel free to share information about

I met with Third graders to tell them how

working. I get it, it’s hard to be here during the

your child. Our class lists are always growing

I feel about STAAR. I want all children to do

work day. Help us find a way to connect our

so they are not released until Meet the

their best anytime they are tested. Everyone

needs, your children’s class, and the benefits

Teacher in August.

is tested… daily! We learn lessons and need to prepared for the test. STAAR just sounds scary and grown ups get nervous for us. Here is the truths about STAAR • Failing STAAR alone is not the reason

interested! We will do our best to schedule an evening get together.

Teacher Appreciation Thank you for loving on our teachers

for retention. Lack of attendance, poor

and staff during teacher appreciation week!

grades, and a lack of mastery of content

Teachers work hard because they love your

through the year would all be elements of

children and it’s the right thing to do. But my

conversation for what is best for a child.

goodness we appreciate your generosity!

• STAAR is a great measurement of your own personal growth. You will take tests see progress.

students in workable, even pods. They make

outdoors became a wonderland! Games, slides, activities and music were packed into our backyard. Students LOVED the freedom and the fabulous choices of skill and silliness.

They worked hard and deserved a wild time of adventure and fun in the sun.

sure every child has a friend from the year

prepares a list of 40 comparable schools

before. They make sure personalities that

to Hilltop. They look at our population,

don’t need to mesh, are taken care of as well.

our school and class sizes, demographics

I spend enough time in classes that I know if

etc and then compare us to those

any changes need to be made on those lists.

schools. This is where my competitive

After the students are grouped then I assign

side comes out. It’s awesome! When I

teachers to the group of students.

• Argyle Insights • Spring / Summer 2017

May 12th was Field Day and Hilltop’s

We spend a lot of time preparing classes for the next school year. Teachers put

think of Hilltop students, teachers, and

Field Day

Planning for Next Year

your whole life. It’s just a way to • 40 school Comparison. The state

8

to their learning. Send me an email if you are

I do appreciate parent descriptions about

Make it Great, Mandi Murphy Principal Argyle ISD

PTO PTA

Hilltop PTA Hilltop PTA has done some great things

AIS PTA The Argyle Intermediate School PTA celebrate Teacher Appreciation week May 1st-5th. They showered the wonderful teachers and staff that make Argyle Intermediate such a wonderful place for students.

outstanding teachers!

Deserae Good - $922.03 (Biology Vernier Lab Probes), Tanya Kosla - $1,028.00 (Art & Media Communication Digital Drawing Tool; Surface Pro 4), $300.00 (Archery Club Bow (Film Stars; mirrorless Digital Camera),

family’s and volunteers. The PTA was able

Terra Lyon - $225.00 (Fahrenheit 451

to provide two field trips per grade level, an

Graphic Library), Jeanna Sutton - $397.72

awesome character program, reading and Run and Field Day. They are currently planning

The AHS PTO awarded to grants to several

Repairs), Stacy Short - $2,000.00

for Hilltop this year thanks to amazing

math curriculum, plus fun things like The Fun

AHS PTO

(Classroom Library), Emily Thomas - $200.00 AMS PTO The AMS PTO held their last “General”

(Immersion Games for French), Daina Hunt $250.00 (Circle of Friends funds)

for another great year ahead with fresh

meeting on April 7th @ 11:45 am in the AMS

ideas. If you would like to get involved with

library. They voted and announced their new

your support of PTO fundraising efforts this

the PTA next year, contact Amber Sams at

PTO slate for 2017-18. Dr. Wright also gave

year. Your donations helped to make these

ambersamsrealtor@gmail.com.

a “Bond Presentation.”

grants possible.

Thank you to the AHS parents and staff for

Spring / Summer 2017 • Argyle Insights •

9

HILLTOP ELEMENTARY

Kindergarten Program

by Courtney Vest

I

n Kindergarten at Hilltop, students are taught phonics, reading, math (number recognition,

pulls resources from Brain Pop Jr., Pebble Go, Online readers and more for the teachers to

addition, subtraction, money identification,

use in their classrooms with their students.

graphs), Science (seasons, light/dark, sound,

They go to the library for stations and they

living and non living, oviparous animals) and

are able to rotate around and listen to stories

Social Studies. In Social Studies they use Texas

read aloud to them on the computer, listen

Studies Weekly. They are little magazines they

to songs about the topic of study, click on

get to take home.

different links in Pebble Go using iPads as well

They do a mix of whole group and small group teaching. Math and Reading are taught

as look through books the librarian has pulled from the shelves.

whole group and small group. Science and

As far as a project that they’ve done, they

Social Studies are whole group. They have

are studying oviparous/pond right now. They

specials, recess and a rest time each day.

visited the Hilltop garden/pond and then they

They integrate technology by using iPads

even walked to the big pond on Harrison Ln.

in the classroom for station work. Mrs. Riley,

They observed animals/insects in their habitat.

the librarian, sets up Mackinvia groups when

When the classes returned to Hilltop they

they are studying certain topics and she

made a big pond with butcher paper and the

S

NATIONAL READ ACROSS AMERICA DAY

tudents at Hilltop Elementary, AIS and AMS took part in National Read Across America Day last week. Pictured below are 3rd grade students from Hilltop that dressed up to celebrate.

students made animals that they saw in or around the pond. They have used many online resources (Pebble Go, Brain Pop Jr, online books) and library books to learn about ponds/oviparous animals.

They go to the zoo in the fall and had an Easter egg hunt in the Spring. They also have High Tech, High Touch come in and do science experiments with them in the spring.

HILLTOP ELEMENTARY

H

Annual Book Fair

illtop Elementary hosted it’s annual book fair prior to spring break. There was a great turn out and students enjoyed purchasing new books. Hilltop also hosted Spring Open House. Students were able to show their parents the art, science projects and other academic projects that they had been working on in their classes. Many teachers showed how they integrate technology into their lessons. Students used iPads to show book reports they recorded and showed how they used apps to enhance their lessons.

Mrs. Knotts pictured above on the left at open house with one of her students, Eden Ostler.

Pictured center and right are students at Hilltop Book Fair.

10

• Argyle Insights • Spring / Summer 2017

SWIMMERS EAR A

cute otitis externa (AOE), also known as “swimmer’s ear”, is a common problem encountered in the summer months well into the fall here in Texas. With the heat index rising and kids out of school, the swimming pool is the best place to be for many families to hang out. This summer, as usual, we have seen many kids with complaints of worsening ear pain and a diagnosis of swimmer’s ear. This type of ear infection is most often preventable with a few routine practices during those times kids spend a good amount of time in the water.

AOE is inflammation of the outer ear canal characterized by redness, swelling, itching, occasional drainage and pain especially with touching of the outer ear. The vast majority of AOE is caused by bacteria. The most common include Pseudomonas aeruginosa and Staphylococcus species. Frequent and recurrent untreated infections can lead to complicated bacterial and fungal infections.

Factors that predispose the ear to infection include high temperature, high humidity and water exposure, especially swimming. Exposure of the skin of the ear canal to water, particularly when prolonged, can lead to skin breakdown, making it more vulnerable to minor trauma and infection. Minor trauma could be caused by anything inserted in the ear canal such as cotton-tip swabs and even one’s own finger when scratching itchy ears. Water exposure, soaps, shampoos and chlorine from pool water can irritate the skin of the external ear canal and contribute to the loss of protective wax which serves as a water-repellent coating for the skin of the canal and provides antimicrobial properties.

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TREATMENTS Topical antibiotic drops should be used for at least a week and continuing use for a few days after symptoms resolve.

Most patients have resolution of symptoms by six days after starting treatment. If no improvement is noted in 4872 hours, or if symptoms persist beyond two weeks, please call or revisit your doctor.

Patients with AOE should avoid submerging their head in water for seven to ten days, but competitive swimmers might be able to return to the pool if pain has resolved and they use well-fitting ear plugs.

RESOURCES

Dr. Rebecca Butler is Board Certified in Pediatrics by the American Board of Pediatrics and is a Fellow of the American Academy of Pediatrics. She is proud to be a resident of Lantana and the owner of Lantana Pediatrics. For more information on Lantana Pediatrics, Dr. Butler and/or Melanie Bitzer, CPNP or to schedule an appointment with one of these providers, call the office at 940-455-7200.

PREVENTION • Dry ears thoroughly after swimming or bathing. Use a towel to dry the ear, tilt the head to each side in turn to allow water to drain from the down-turned ear, and consider using a blow dryer set on the lowest heat and fan speed held several inches away from the ear.

• Alcohol-based ear drops after swimming (or each morning and evening) to reduce moisture content in the ear canal, correct the ear pH and reduce bacterial growth has been recommended. Commercially prepared alcoholbased ear-drying solutions are available, or patients can make their own 1:1 mixture of rubbing alcohol and white vinegar. These drops should not be used in the presence of ear tubes, tympanic membrane perforation or acute external ear infection.

• Use a bathing cap, ear plugs or custom-fitted swim molds when swimming to keep water out of ears.

• Do not try to remove ear wax. It helps protect your ear canal from infection.

• Avoid putting objects into the ear canal, including fingers and cottontip swabs.

• For information on Recreational Water Illness and Injury Prevention Week, visit www.cdc.gov/healthywater/swimming/rwi/rwi-prevention-week/index.html.

• Information from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) about recreational water illnesses can be found at www.cdc.gov/healthywater/swimming/rwi.

• Information from the CDC for patients on swimmer’s ear is available at www.cdc.gov/healthywater/swimming/rwi/illnesses/swimmers-ear.html.

NOMINATE US!

NEW EXPANDED HOURS

Mon-Thurs: 7:30am-6:30pm Friday: 7:30am - 5pm • Saturdays: 9am - 12pm

940.455.7200 www.LantanaPediatrics.com

74 McMakin Road, Ste. 100 • Bartonville, TX 76226

June 14

July 12

Daddy Daughter

Photos from Argyle Residents

photo courtesy of Song Hong.

CHESS Tournament

T 1st Grade Gold – AJ Ball Silver – Cody Ball Bronze – Kaden Johnson

he 2017 Hilltop Elementary Chess Tournament was played on May 1st and 2nd. It was Hilltop’s 11th annual tournament!

2nd Grade Gold – David Velzaquez Silver – Eli Rouly Bronze – Luke Metcalf

3rd Grade Gold – Marc Carames Silver – Nathaniel Bruce Bronze – Cort Williams

Major in the United States

Air Force Visits Mrs. Dunn’s 5th Grade Math Classes

J

ohn Farquhar, Major, in the United States Air Force came to visit Mrs. Dunn’s 5th grade math classes on Thursday Feburary 16. Mrs. Dunn’s classes had been writing to Major Farquhar as a pen pal this school year. He returned home form Kuwait and he wanted to meet the students in person. During his visit, Major Farquhar showed the students a brief video of different duties and responsibilities he had while stationed in Kuwait. Additionally, he answered questions from the students and gifted Mrs. Dunn with three patches from his uniform.

12

• Argyle Insights • Spring / Summer 2017

ALL

DOGS Love Reading

by Mary Ann Riley

H

illtop Elementary Library has introduced some new furry friends to our students this year! Hilltop Library has partnered with the Golden Triangle Dog Obedience Organization to bring in trained therapy dogs once a month to listen to students read aloud.

Students gain reading fluency and develop confidence as they read aloud to the dogs in a fun, safe environment. We look forward to having the therapy dogs in our school again next year, as well as expanding the program to the Intermediate Library.

Spring / Summer 2017 • Argyle Insights •

13

ARGYLE EDUCATION FOUNDATION

12th Annual Gala

by Cheryl Slaton

A

rgyle ISD supporters gathered at Robson Ranch on March 4th to support the Argyle Education Foundation’s Fund a Teacher campaign. The 12th annual Gala supporting AEF, presented by generous donors throughout the community was a great success!

With over 300 in attendance the event included a whiskey & wine pull, silent and live auction, photo booth, cigar bar, dinner and dancing with music provided by the band InTENsity.

Josh Westrom, AEF Vice President of Development, added “The 2017 AEF Gala was fun and exciting community-wide event with over 325 attendees gathering to support Argyle ISD, its students and our teachers.

The Argyle Education Foundation wants to thank all of our sponsors and guests for making it a successful evening and helping the Argyle Education Foundation achieve its goal of supporting above and beyond teachers that lower student teacher ratios at the elementary school and expand the educational opportunities for middle and high

school students in the areas of computer programming and science, technology, engineering and mathematics. Supporting the Argyle Education Foundation, Argyle ISD students and teachers during this time of unprecedented growth in our community has never been more important. We look forward to growing the foundation and expanding its impact and reach within our school district through the continued support of existing residents and our new friends and families who move here for the wonderful educational opportunities Argyle ISD provides for our children.”

Three years ago, the Argyle Education Foundation began the Fund a Teacher campaign to help fund “above and beyond “ staff opportunities, allowing the district to hire teachers and staff that are above and beyond what is state mandated. AEF will continue to support the district with nearly $200,000 raised during our 2017 Gala. For more information, please visit www.SupportArgyleISD.org.

photography by Illustrative Depictions Photography - www.illustrativedepictions.com

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• Argyle Insights • Spring / Summer 2017

A Message from the

Argyle Intermediate Principal I It is hard to believe that we are at the end of endless contributions and dedicating a great the 2016-17 school year. What a successful deal of time to provide beneficial activities, programs and events to our school. I would school year it has been with the addition also be remiss if I didn’t mention the delicious of the fourth graders and their wonderful luncheons and treat days that have been teachers. Reflecting on the journey we have provided for the staff along with all the things taken so far this year makes me realize how on the teacher wish lists that were purchased fortunate we are at Argyle Intermediate. this year. We feel very spoiled and blessed Our school has been successful due to the that you take such good care of us. We are awesome collaborative partnership between very thankful for your generous students, staff members and “Please support and we look forward to parents. Our students are enjoy the next year. meeting high standards of During the final weeks of change of performance due to the excellent school, staff and students were teaching from our fabulous staff pace that busy with teaching and learning, and support from our parents. summer STAAR tests, and exciting events We must recognize our students brings.” such as field trips, end of the for their perseverance, hard work, year parties, end of year awards and effort displayed throughout ceremony and other celebrations. the school year. Our work is not quite done We have already started the planning and though; we still have lots of learning left. preparation process for the 2017-18 school I would like to take this opportunity year. I am excited to announce that I will to thank our terrific PTA and executive be hiring an assistant principal. We have board. Sara Richardson and Sabrina interviewed some very qualified people, but Spies, PTA co-presidents, have provided as of now, that person has not been named excellent leadership and support to the so stay tuned for more information. One of PTA committees, the school staff and the planning areas is to ensure our staffing administration, and most importantly to the exemplifies the very best of educators who students at AIS. They have provided many demonstrate a passion for teaching and resources to help teachers in the classrooms, working with children. We are also revamping as well as, providing scholarships for students our schedule for next year so students will that may not be able to afford to attend some have a homeroom, more recess time, and school trips. Thank you to all the parents on less movement among teachers. We hope the PTA and the various committees for your in the long run this will help students be

more organized, parents more connected to school and students more connect to their classmates. Fourth grade will consist of nine teachers divided into three pods. In each pod, there will be a math teacher, ELAR teacher, and a science/social studies teacher. Students will be assigned a homeroom teacher and just move among the other teachers in that pod. Fifth grade will have eight teachers divided into two pods with one teacher for each of the four core subjects; math, science, social studies and ELAR. Students will have a specials rotation with art, music and PE. One day a week they will receive an extra specials so that teachers can participate in planning and professional learning communities with their teams. This will also allow for students to get PE, music and art, two days a week for the whole year. We hope this new schedule helps better meet the development needs of students on our campus next year and in the future.

Please enjoy the change of pace that summer brings. Have a happy, relaxing, and safe summer with your children. We look forward to seeing everyone upon our return for the 2017-18 school year. The office will be open through June, so please feel free to contact us if you have any questions. Have a wonderful summer!!

Renee Funderburg Principal Argyle Intermediate School

Spring / Summer 2017 • Argyle Insights •

15

GREETINGS FROM

Gibson T

he 2016-2017 year has been a tremendous year for Argyle Middle

white board by touching the screen.

both the chromebooks and the monitor. At the end of the period he was interviewed along with one of his students on the use of technology in the classroom.

The second class visited was a sixth grade English language arts class taught by veteran teacher Erika Adams. Students used their chromebooks in class with the production crew moving between students to get just the right footage. A television was placed outside

Because Argyle ISD was one of the first

the room in the collaboration space where

School. The opening of a school has brought

schools to begin using the new Dell monitors,

students modeled how to use the device.

many “new” experiences. A new building, new

we were asked to appear in a promotional

The group rounded out their visit with Ms.

chromebooks, and new interactive monitors.

video promoting the use of Dell products

Thetford’s third period STEM class where

There has been much talk about the first item,

in the classroom. A professional production

these devices were shown in a completely

though the new chromebooks and interactive

crew, along with Dell employees, spent the

different setting than an English or history

monitors have gotten their share of attention

day at AMS earlier this spring. The crews

class. When the classroom filming was

recently too.

went into three different classrooms that

finished administration and other staff were

were teaching three very different subjects to

interviewed for the video. We should see a

chromebooks for the 2017-18 school year.

highlight how these devices are being used.

rough draft of the video soon. The district will

To go along with these chromebooks, each

The crew started in Matthew George’s

make comments about the video and then the

Argyle ISD purchased new Dell

classroom received a 70 inch interactive

7th grade Texas history class. Mr. George

production crew will use that feedback for a

monitor. An interactive monitor is basically a

prides himself on having a completely digital

final copy. Look for the finished product on

television that allows the user to use it like a

classroom. Mr. George modeled use of

the AMS website in the future.

I hope everyone in Argyle enjoys the summer and comes back ready for the 2017-18 school year.

Scott Gibson Principal Argyle Middle School 940.246.2126 Ext. 3002

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• Argyle Insights • Spring / Summer 2017

Spring / Summer 2017 • Argyle Insights •

17

ARGYLE NIGHTS

Middle School Debate Club

by Brooklyn Greer

A

rgyle Nights was sponsored by sixth grade parents for students to learn social etiquette and enjoy socializing with friends. Held on four different dates, themes included hip hop, western, red/black, and formal. Sixth graders participated and the school and community center at Robson Ranch.

by Hope Freeman

T

he Middle School Debate Club started practices in February and is open to any student interested in participating.

Approximately twenty students participated and were visited by the high school debate team April 12th. The students and club sponsor, Edie Collins, meet every Wednesday during lunch and flex. So far they have discussed debate topics and met with their groups to discuss the upcoming debates. They are planning to eventually have one debate per meeting.

This will be an exciting year for the Debate club.

pictured above: Billy Mykel, Trenton Goodpaster, Andrew Gibson, Bryan Mazariagos, and Simeon Childress

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• Argyle Insights • Spring / Summer 2017

PRACTICING FOR DISCUS

by Payton McNulty

K

atie Garner threw discus at the track meet at Argyle High School on March 7, 2017. She had been practicing all week to prepare for the meet and outperformed her competitors.

Two special presentations followed the job fair portion of the day. In the first presentation, the Ft. Worth Zoo discussed the spectrum of careers involved in their organization and the education required to obtain these careers.

The second presentation provided a real life look into the legal system. Made possible by Susan Piel and the Denton County District Attorney’s Office, the Mock Trail kept students

CAREER DAY

on the edge of their seats and explained the

A

the mascot provided entertainment along with

by Jayne Kraus

s the parent of high school and middle school students, I understand the need

for career and college education in the middle school. The high school graduation plan includes endorsement options that will have students and parents thinking about long-term plans and goals beginning in 8th grade. It’s our responsibility as parents and educators to offer our students as much information as possible so that they can make informed decisions.

When I was asked to help plan this year’s career day, I was excited about all the possible

Slideshows, demonstrations, role-play, and other methods were used to engage the students in their presentations.

The afternoon was modeled after a traditional job fair. Students explored and interacted with 31 vendor booths from a wide variety of companies and professionals. Eighth grade students actually interviewed with these companies. I am not sure who enjoyed it more, the students or the vendors. It was exciting to see the interest level of all of the students.

process involved in a court trial.

The day came to a close as the University of North Texas gave us all a look into college life and benefits of higher education. Scrappy the UNT Dancers and Step Dancers from a fraternity. Lots of UNT gear was handed out to students as well.

This experience was made possible by all of the wonderful parent and student volunteers that played host and hostess to our guests. The Challenge Day Club students were so helpful and professional. I would like to thank Mrs. Shobe and Mr. Gibson for the opportunity to help out with this event, as well as all of the volunteers that made it all possible.

ways we could get students involved.

The week began with College and Career Poster Projects that decorated our walls.

Some students explored their interests with an aptitude test and career matching. All week, students participated in theme days including Career Hat Day, College Spirit Day, and the Dress for Success Day where they wore professional attire to meet with our guests.

To keep Career Day interesting, we decided to incorporate several formats throughout the week and day. The morning started off with a series of classroom presentation – 31 professionals from our community had the opportunity to speak to nine different classrooms and share their career experiences and advice. These presenters came from a wide variety of industries and provided insight into careers involving math, science, art, public service, nature, customer service, law enforcement and much more.

Spring / Summer 2017 • Argyle Insights •

19

HOG HEARTS and

COW EYES

20

• Argyle Insights • Spring / Summer 2017

in similar ways to those of a human providing insight for students to learn how their bodies work.

Using a fresh pig heart and lungs, students observed the major chambers, valves, and vessels of the heart and were able to describe the circulation of blood through the heart to the lungs and back and out to the rest of the body. (The pig heart is used because it is very

lungs, and cow eyeballs. To gain a better

students learn the parts of the eye and the

understanding of the human body, students

structures that surround it. Students can also

can see, touch, and explore various organs in

recognize distinct structures like the pupil,

a body. Seeing the organs and understanding

cornea, optic nerve, lens and iris. Thank

how they work within a single animal allows

you to the Kraus Family for providing this

students to understand how organ systems

wonderful learning experience for our 7th

work together.

grade students!

Spring Fling

by Grace Fife

A

t AMS, we soar to new heights and in this picture Jessie Moore is soaring to another point for the volleyball team. Our growing community provides a lot of opportunity to enjoy sports and academics outside the classroom. We always try to soar like an eagle and the staff at Argyle always strive to make sure all the students are successful.

organ systems of a complex living thing work

A

observe and dissect fresh hog hearts,

by Sophie Slaton

between humans and other animals, many

like the human heart in structure, size,

rgyle Middle School students were recently given the opportunity to

VOLLEYBALL

While there are various aspects that differ

& function.)

By examining and dissecting a cow’s eye,

TRACK MEET

by Olivia McAlister

T

his year, AMS track teams have been doing extremely well, with both the 7th and 8th grade boys teams placing first and both the 7th and 8th girls placing fourth. So far, Argyle has had four meets and performed successfully in all of them.

F

ebruary 10th marked AMS’s first Spring Fling dance for seventh and 8th graders. Seventh grade takes time to pose before enjoying the night’s festivities, including a live DJ, snacks, and a photo booth. Everyone looked stunning at the semi-formal dance. Student Council sponsored the event while Thespians decorated. StuCo sponsor Mrs. Nelson agreed “this was an amazing night of StuCo, Thespians, and Staff working together to create a wonderful night for these students.”

pictured: 8th grader Reese McDonald clears the hurdle to spring to the finish line.

, Director

y Johnson om Kath fr s te a d p

Band U

BAND PERFORM AT UIL CONCERT All four Argyle bands, two at the middle school and two at the high school, had phenomenal performances at the UIL Concert at Sight Reading Evaluation on April 13. White Band, Red Band, Symphonic Band, and Wind Ensemble all received unanimous first divisions from all six UIL judges.

The Argyle Middle School beginner band received a unanimous first division rating and won Band of the Day at the Sandy Lake FunFest on April 19. The theme for the FunFest was patriotic, with bands, choirs and orchestras from Texas, Oklahoma, Arkansas, Louisiana and New Mexico competing at Sandy Lake Amusement Park in Carrollton.

Upcoming Events: May 17th - Argyle Middle School Spring Concert at Argyle High School May 25th - Solo Contest at Argyle High School June 25-30 - Texas Lutheran University Summer Music Academy

ental of Instrum

yle ISD

Music , Arg

BEGINNER, WHITE, AND RED BAND All three Argyle Middle School bands competed at Beach Within Reach at Richland High School at the end of April. The Beach within Reach Festival features over 130 middle and Jr. high school bands competing over a span of four days.

All three bands (Beginner Band, White Band, and Red Band) got first division ratings from all three judges. This is a huge accomplishment as they competed against some of the best bands in the state.

In addition, Red Band and White Band were both recognized as Best In Class runners up. Red Band was ranked 5th overall in their classification, and White Band was awarded 2nd in their classification.

All bands competed in the open division which can include any type of music, including UIL music, and is judged slightly below a UIL standard. They each played 2-3 pieces and performed before an adjudication panel of highly experienced professionals.

ARGYLE MS RED & WHITE BANDS

ARGYLE MS BEGINNER BAND

The 7th and 8th grade bands have many social activities after school. Recently, they traveled to the Galleria in Dallas for a social outing to ice skate and hang out with friends. All band students participated in game night in the band hall where they brought game systems and board games to celebrate the hard work this quarter. And most recently they took a trip to Medieval Times where they experienced a jousting tournament!

In addition, the middle school students participated in the Argyle ISD ensemble contest where they performed a student-taught ensemble for a judge who gave feedback about how to expand and strengthen their musical performance. All student performers performed at the highest level and comments from the judges were stellar! All 7th & 8th grade students prepared for the UIL Concert & Sight Reading contest at AHS on Thursday, April 13th. This was an event that is open to parents, family, & friends.

Beginner band students just completed their Band Olympics where each students accumulates points for passing off lines from their book and Rhythm Rockers. This was a great opportunity for the students to demonstrate their independent learning, compete and have fun! The week of March 6th, all beginner classes presented chamber music concerts during their class periods.

Parents and friends came by to enjoy these very talented young musicians.

Upcoming Events for Beginner Band:

Upcoming Events for Red

Solo Contest-May 25th

& White Band: Summer Band trip to TLU and Schlitterbahn! June 25-30

NRH2O-June 2nd Summer Band Trip to TLU and Schlitterbahn! June 25-30

Spring / Summer 2017 • Argyle Insights •

21

ARCHERY

Metric Olympics

MERRITT

by Presley Allen

S

HAWKESWORTH by the Hawkesworth Family

S

he began attending archery after school as a second grader. She went to one local tournament as a third grader. She competed at a couple tournaments and at the state level as a fourth grader and finished with a score of 228. At the time, she had qualified for Nationals and wanted to go. We explained to her that it would be very expensive to get there and we wanted her to devote extra time to practice and raise her score so that she could be competitive and stronger as a fifth grader. She was disappointed, but agreed that she could improve her score. She has shown us a degree of focus, patience, and determination that we have never seen from her before. She is an amazing student and great with several other sports, but there is definitely something special between her and that bow. We were blown away to think about the fact that her personal best happened to be on the biggest competitive stage in the state. Merritt says often, “I just don’t get nervous in competitions. It doesn’t matter where I am shooting or who I’m shooting beside. It’s still the same target.”

She is 11 years old now, she grew 4 inches over the past year, and she is definitely stronger physically and mentally. She knew she had an incredible round of shots the minute she finished shooting the final arrow. As soon as we told her the total of her 30 arrows, she looked us straight in the eye and said, “Now can I go to Nationals?”

TOP 10 AT AHS

eventh graders Savannah Hartwell, Morgan Stafford, and Emma Stapleton in Coach Gay’s science class. The class was competing in the metric Olympics by throwing cotton ball “shot puts” and measuring metric distance.

photo courtesy of Sophie Slaton

Cheer Banquet

Cheerleaders Recognition Eagle Cheer Award(given for each squad) Varsity - Haylee Holt JV - Elizabeth Bedunah Middle School 8th Grade - Lila Rigsby Middle School 7th Grade - Jenna Schnabel Pictured below Jenna Schnabel- 7th grade Eagle Cheer Award Jenna Schnabel, Olivia Dembowski, Trista Acker (all 7th grade) Amanda Cox (8th grade), Annette Linahan (Senior), Jenna Schnabel (7th grade)

photo By Kirby Reyes Annabel Thorpe

Reeves Moseley

Max McWhorter

Joshua Block

Jennifer Kerner

Gracie Baum

Matthew Castle

Reign Bach

Brooke Daniel

Molly Sheridan

22

• Argyle Insights • Spring / Summer 2017

photos provided by Stacie Schnabel

WARD WINS WRESTLING DIVISION 3

by Gail Ward

A

rgyle Middle School 7th grader, Asa Ward, won the Texas state youth wrestling title in Division 3 at 120 lbs on Feb. 25-26. The event took place at the Legends Youth Sports Complex in The Woodlands with over 900 Texas Youth wrestlers competing.

He started wrestling at age 4 through Argyle Youth Wrestling Club with his dad, Lyn Ward, coaching him.

He continued training at Keller Wrestling Academy when Argyle closed its Youth club.

This is the first year Asa has won state after many years of training and a few injuries along the way.

He enjoys this individual mental & physical sport and his years of hard work have come to fruition.

PRINT - ONLINE - SOCIAL MEDIA MOBILE MARKETING - PUBLISHING www.Murray-Media.com • 972.899.3637

Spring / Summer 2017 • Argyle Insights •

23

Featuring a Q&A with Coach Seno

by Robert Seno

T

he Argyle Eagles Competitive Shooting Team was established in 2011 as a means of teaching the youth of our community firearms safety, ownership, and use while passing on the old tradition of the clay target shooting sports to future generations. We focus heavily on safety.

Every athlete, volunteer and assistant coach will attend the team safety course every year regardless of shooting experience or how many years they have been on the team. (These sports are currently the safest school sports in the nation.) The head coach, volunteers and assistant coaches are required to undergo a background check annually to ensure the safety of our athletes.

We provide “bench-free” sports (we have a rifle and pistol team as well) for intermediate, junior high and high school athletes (grades 5th – 12th) to compete against other schools and organizations in one of the fastest growing high school sports in the nation. The term “Bench free” refers to the fact that everyone on the team has the opportunity to compete for their school. The coach cannot bench an athlete for performance. We compete in tournaments and shoots with the following organizations: Scholastic Clay Target Program (SCTP), USA Youth Education in Shooting Sports (USAYESS/TexasYESS) and 4-H. Our

24

• Argyle Insights • Spring / Summer 2017

athletes are encouraged to shoot the with the following organizations as well: Amateur Trapshooting Association (ATA), National Skeet Shooting Association (NSSA) and National Sporting Clays Association (NSCA).

In the team’s first year, there was only a handful of athletes on the team. As the years moved on the team grew to about 15 in 2015.

Last year that number went to 21 and this year a milestone was reached as we have 40 athletes on our team roster. Roughly half of those are female.

This year has marked another milestone for the team. This year the varsity level shotgun athletes are eligible to get a varsity letter in the clay target sports if all requirements are met.

They are one of the few teams in the D/FW area that can do that. The Argyle ISD Athletic Director approved this and they thank him. It gives the athletes another goal to strive for.

We are not funded by the AISD. We are a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization funded through donations, sponsorships, fundraisers, team fees and a Go Fund Me page.

We believe in family and strongly encourage the entire family to participate in all team events from fundraising and parent board to assistant coaching or just helping keep

score. Our team is a family and we spend many weekends together throughout the late winter, spring, and through mid-summer at tournaments, some lasting up to 4 days, and practice days. These athletes practice in and compete in some harsh weather from below freezing to temps to over 115 degrees with heat indexes exceeding 120. Shoots go on rain or heat and snow or wind or any combination of those.

Last year they had great success throughout the season and saw the medal stand numerous times – 17 total awards went to athletes anywhere from 3rd place in a single event to Regional Champion in all events to State Champion twice. This year has started off great as well with three High Lady awards, a couple of 1st place finishes in different events, and a 3rd. They have had several this season finish in the top 10 of their respective divisions. Pretty good considering they shoot against schools as big as 6A whose rosters regularly has 70-plus athletes to pull talent from.

What makes this different than most other school sports besides the equipment is the athletes must be self-analytical and self-correcting. There is no coaching during a round. The coach cannot walk up to the firing line to correct an athlete or yell corrections from the sidelines, or sidewalk in their case.

The coach must stay back and be quiet for

the whole round of 25 targets. Not an easy thing to do if you’re a coach and one of your athletes is struggling. The two or three minutes between rounds is all you get to talk to the athletes and try to help. And that time is divided between five shooters. They must be able figure out; “Why did I miss that?” or “Did I shoot that pair in the right order or should I try it the other way?” and fix it themselves during the round between shots.

Another difference is that some of these athletes will give up more than half of their summer to do what they love. Some of our athletes will practice and shoot tournaments into the third week of July. While their friends are on vacation and relaxing, some these athletes are getting ready for and competing on the national stage against schools from across the nation – some as far away as Alaska.

There are some very mentally tough athletes on this team. This sport is 90% mental and 10% physical. You can’t let a miss or “lost bird” ruin the rest of your round. You have to be able to “let it go” and get ready for the next target. Some of these athletes will have a bad round and shoot a 15 out of 25 and

come back the next three rounds and shoot 23 to 25 out of 25 targets. They need to focus on, “The next target is the only target that matters.” You win one target at a time.

When did Argyle Establish the Shooting Team?

2011 What is the official name for the team?

Argyle Eagles Competitive Shooting Team What ages are involved?

We will take 5th – 12th How many members do you have on your team?

40 on the shotgun team roster What are the requirements to be on the team?

As long as they can safely use and are mature enough to handle a firearm.

How often does the team practice?

We have three scheduled practices a week – Thursdays, Saturdays and Sundays. Most practice on Thursday evenings and Sunday afternoons. Saturdays are our tournament days so not every Saturday we have practice.

What types of events/competitions do your team members participate in?

We participate in the three main events of Trap, Skeet and Sporting Clays. Some athletes will participate in other events such as Double Trap and Skeet doubles. We also shoot charity events and assist national and local organizations with their fundraising events.

We have one such event coming up in about two weeks. Our athletes going for their varsity letter are required 20 hours of community service on top of several other requirements.

What types of skills do students learn while participating in these events?

Critical thinking, problem solving, teamwork, time management, dedication, determination, mental toughness, integrity, respect, accountability and most importantly is safety.

Are students able to get scholarships for college for shooting?

Yes. Many colleges and universities offer scholarship opportunities. Many add them every year.

What is your role?

Head Coach and dad to a daughter on the team.

Spring / Summer 2017 • Argyle Insights •

25

Hello Eagle Parents from Argyle High School

W

e are winding down another

continued its dominance and earned a silver

successful school year. I would like

medal at state. Argyle theater put on our

beginning its playoff run. We have several athletes who have qualified for the region track meet and hope to make it to state. Our boy’s golf team has qualified again for the state tournament.

Finally, I would like to congratulate the

to take the time to thank all of you for your

best musical to date “Grease” and blew away

Class of 2017 on a job well-done. They have

support of our students and our school. We

audiences. Our boys and girls basketball

worked hard for 13 years and they are ready

appreciate everything you do from attending

teams both earned trips to state with our

to move on to the next chapter of their

games and concerts to taking your child

Lady Eagles winning their third consecutive

lives. We are so proud of each of them and

to practices, working concession stands,

state championship! We had a state champion

their unique talents and abilities. We cannot

supporting our PTO, and making sure your

in wrestling and state qualifiers in cross

wait to see the amazing things they will

child does their homework. The support we

country. Our math and science students won

receive from you makes it possible for us to

state at TMSCA for the 12th consecutive

continue to be successful year after year.

year. Our academic UIL students won state

I would like to cover some of the highlights

in literary criticism, Math, calculator, number

of this year. Our outstanding marching

sense, and accounting and third in computer

band made another historic run at state,

science. We also had several individuals

bringing home a silver medal. Our varsity

placing or winning state in academics. Looking

football team went undefeated throughout

ahead, our baseball team earned the district

the regular season and made another deep

championship and will begin the playoffs

playoff run. Our Lady Eagle volleyball team

soon. Our softball team placed third and is

FLIGHT FEARLESSNESS • LOYALTY • INTEGRITY • GRATITUDE • HUMILITY • TEAMSHIP

by Mary Betzhold

T

he 2016-17 boys basketball team’s motto for the year was FLIGHT, representing fearlessness, loyalty, integrity, gratitude, humility, and teamship. Each player of the team exemplified these characteristics as they soared reaching heights of third place in state competition. The team principle, loyalty, was embodied in its utmost by actions shown in honoring Alex Betzhold, former teammate, who passed away five years ago at the age of thir teen. Alex, an avid basketball fan, was in the middle of his seventh grade basketball season when he died in his sleep due to sudden cardiac arrest. He was a teammate/classmate of this year’s seniors.

26

• Argyle Insights • Spring / Summer 2017

accomplish in their futures!

The love shown by Coach Russell Perkins and Alex’s teammates surrounded Alex’s parents, Steve and Mary Betzhold, along with sisters, Sophie, and Claire. The Eagle basketball teams’ home opener found each player wearing Alex’s number, 35, on their jerseys which they did throughout the season.

Including the Betzholds in all Senior Night

photo by Quinn Calendine

James Hill Principal Argyle High School

activities, the Eagles presented a framed jersey with the number 35 that was Alex’s jersey this season.

“I will always remember the overpowering feeling of love that my family felt as the boys walked over to give us this jersey,” Steve said.

“The thoughtfulness that went into this gift is such a loving example of the heart of this team.”

The boys continued their kindnesses by cutting a piece of the net for Alex upon winning the Regional Championship.

“It is truly unheard of for a team to show the amount of thoughtfulness and kindnesses they have when it has been five years since Alex passed on,” remarked Steve.

“For Alex to be honored as a part of a team with this kind of integrity and humility is one of the greatest treasures of all” replied Mary. “One day when we are reunited with Alex in heaven, I believe we will see this team part of Alex’s eternal and cherished friends.

What could have been our darkest of season has been one filled with overwhelming love.”

Castle & McWhorter Finalists at

NATIONAL MERIT SCHOLARSHIP PROGRAM A

rgyle ISD is proud to announce that

Scholarship Program (NMSP). “Argyle High

information about the semi-finalist’s academic

two high school seniors, Matthew

School and Argyle ISD are extremely proud of

record, participating in school and community

Castle and Max McWhorter, were recently

the hard work and dedication that Matthew

named finalists in the National Merit

activities, demonstration of leadership abilities

and Max have shown. To be named a National

and honors and awards received.

Merit finalist is a tremendous accomplishment.

“I am honored to be their principal and I am thankful to the teachers and parents of Matthew and Max for the guidance they have shown them throughout their educational careers,” stated James Hill, principal of Argyle High School.

To become a finalists, semi-finalists and

National Merit Finalists must have an outstanding academic record, be endorsed and recommended by a high school official, write an essay and earn SAT scores that confirm the student’s performance.

These students represent the top 15,000 (.5%) of the nation’s high school graduates.

their high schools must submit a detailed

Congratulations to Matthew and Max and

scholarship application in which they provide

their families!

Spring / Summer 2017 • Argyle Insights •

27

Congrats

Hennes Becomes Eagle Scout

C

A

TO DIRECTOR ANNABEL THORPE

ongrats to Director Annabel Thorpe and crew for taking 2nd place at the UIL State Young Film Makers State Championships!

pictured from left to right: Caleb Miles, Anabel Thorpe & Lauren Landrum. photo above provided by: Stacy Short

by Janelle Hennes

rgyle resident Andrew Hennes of Troop 192 became an Eagle Scout on July 27, 2016. Andrew’s Eagle Scout Court of Honor will be held this Spring at Argyle United Methodist Church.

On his journey to Eagle Scout, Andrew earned 38 merit badges and served his troop in a variety of leadership roles, including Sr. Patrol leader. For his Eagle Project, Andrew worked with Preschool Director, Kelli Stoops, to coordinate building outdoor benches and planting a tree at the Argyle United Methodist Church Kingdom Kids Preschool.

Hennes, a 17-year-old junior at Argyle High School, plans to pursue a career in medical research. He continues to be active in Scouts and will be attending Philmont Scout Ranch this summer. Andrew was elected into the Order of the Arrow, Scouting’s National Honor Society, in September of 2015. He has earned one eagle palm. Andrew plays the euphonium in the AHS marching band and has participated in cross country, UIL academics, Student Council, and National Honor Society.

His parents are Ken and Janelle Hennes of Argyle.

BSA Troop 192 is sponsored by Argyle United Methodist Church.

Student (Andrew Hennes) builds seating for Argyle Church Preschool playground

A Letter from

CHIEF PAUL CAIRNEY

A

s you travel around Argyle ISD, you will see two new additions to the police department.

Sergeant (Detective) Bob Mastropiero joined Argyle ISD Police Department in January; he brings years of experience to us as a patrolman, a schools resources officer and as an investigator. His partner is Kiero, a 14 month old Labrador who is a certified drug detector dog.

“Officer Bob,” as he is known to those who cannot quite manage to pronounce his last name, is also now a trained drug dog handler.

He and Kiero have an office in Argyle Middle School, but they will cover the entire district.

“It’s fun,” Officer Bob says about working with Kiero. “It’s a challenge. It’s cool to have a full-time partner – that’s what it really comes down to. You do things together. It’s

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• Argyle Insights • Spring / Summer 2017

rewarding doing your job together as a team.”

The Argyle Board of Trustees recognized last summer that as the district grows we will face new challenges and authorized the additional officer as well as the drug dog. As is the hallmark of Argyle ISD, they wanted to be proactive against the rising presence of drug use in the area before it became an unmanageable problem. Until now, Argyle ISD has used contract dog services which have been excellent, however the board members decided we needed more coverage and a greater deterrent and thus decided to invest in our own drug dog.

Does this mean drugs are rampant in our schools? No, but we would be naïve to think it is non-existent or something we should ignore. Drugs are an issue all school districts, including private schools, are facing.

By bringing Officer Bob and Kiero on to the team, we can be much more aggressive in attacking the problem.

“The goal is to get rid of drugs,” says Officer Bob, “but we also need to get the young adults to realize it may be fun for the moment but it is detrimental to long-term success.

They need to know how much drugs will damage their long-term development.”

Officer Bob says he is also excited about working in Argyle ISD. “This is a great school system. It’s not overcrowded. The people are very down to earth and friendly. They are genuine. It feels good to work for a district that’s forward-looking and excited about where they are going.”

Q&A

goals and working our hardest to try and make those dreams a reality. We won 33

BASKETBALL

games and made it to the state tournament.

We had 7 outstanding seniors who really led our eight underclassmen into a great group

COACH RUSSELL PERKINS

who put our team first. That is the most

T

have the best players (although ours are

eaching: This is my 27th year in teaching

coaching is getting to shut the door of the

– eight at Jim Ned, one at Cameron Yoe,

classroom or be in the gym with me and my

14 at Abilene Wylie and four here at Argyle.

kids and watching them just get better at

I have taught every math class there is, but I

doing things. I know most kids will not solve

have taught Algebra 2 all 27 years. Algebra 2 is

logarithmic equations or hit jump shots for a

what I teach here.

living, but what we do will help them get to

Coaching: I have coached

do what they want to do and,

important thing we can build. We might not really good), but we can create the best team with Fearlessness, Loyalty, Integrity, Gratitude, Humility, and Teamship. (I made that last word up if you were an English major) Class goals: I get emails all the time from former students that are doing amazing

every year. I coached football

more importantly, be great

things in the real world. I share those with

and basketball for 23 years and

husbands, wives,

my students I have now to let them know

only coach basketball here at

fathers and mothers for the

in less than 10 years, they too can be doing

Argyle. This is my 24th year as a

next generation.

things that are amazing. I just try to constantly

head basketball coach.

Favorite thing: My favorite thing about teaching and

Season: This has been a

remind my kids that what we do in math will

dream season. We are not

allow them to excel at the things they want to

afraid to talk about setting big

do later -- in college and beyond.

Spring / Summer 2017 • Argyle Insights •

29

FINE ARTS

Showcase

by Brayden Ratcliff

follow a structure of chord changes, allowing

in a crowded restaurant,” senior Chantz

musicians to insert their own musical ideas on

Graff said. “The drum set is the noise in the

the spot.

background, the trumpet and saxophone are

“Jazz is the greatest genre of music to play in my opinion because you get to have so

and forth, and all the accompanists are kind of

much freedom,” senior Jeff Woelfel said. “I

like the expressions of the people.”

once heard that you can’t play a wrong note because there are no rules in jazz, and if that doesn’t show total musical freedom I don’t know what would.”

With the addition of mega lunch, the group has utilized this time to practice once a week.

“Having practice during lunch is a great concept, but by the time we get our

A

fter a year of absence as a formal group, the jazz band has its first performance

at the school’s first Fine Arts Showcase on May 4.

“The format for that right now is sort of evolving, but the jazz band will be kind of a lounge band,” jazz band sponsor and Associate Director of Bands Asa Burk said. “It’s not crazy formal, but it is an opportunity for the group

the two people having a conversation back

instruments out and warm up and get the

While the group is now just a club jazz, Burk has aspirations of expanding the program.

“Hopefully in the future we can have a jazz band class when we have more students to choose from and the school grows a little bit,” he said. “You don’t have to have your best players in there, you just have to have people that want to be in the jazz band.”

While the Fine Arts showcase is the only

music, we have little time to rehearse,” Woelfel

performance booked, there might be more

said. “If a jazz band class was made then so

opportunities to hear the group in the future.

much more would get done because there

“Keep in mind that we are just a club jazz

would be more time to rehearse and learn

band, but I’m looking at some competitions

harder tunes.”

that maybe aren’t as stringent as UIL and

Senior Chantz Graff said that jazz provides a unique experience for the player.

“Jazz is like people having a conversation

that would not stress us out,” Burk said.

“If performance opportunities present themselves, we will go for it.”

to show off their musical ability.”

Along with the jazz band, the event will also include theater, choir, and the art program.

“The mingling and socializing aspect will be perusing art that students have created, going to see a theater impromptu performance, and hearing the choir,” Burk said. “It’s a showcase of a little bit of everything that we do here in regards to fine arts, and it will be a great venue.”

Unlike concert or marching band, jazz often allows students the ability to improvise, or

30

• Argyle Insights • Spring / Summer 2017

photo by Brayden Ratcliff

Kimberly Kass Given

UIL Sponsor

Excellence Award

by Faith Stapleton

A

fter being selected as one of the best contributions of others that make something University Interscholastic League like this possible” Kass said.

(UIL) sponsors in the state of Texas by a Being a sponsor is rewarding in the sense group of judges, Kimberly Kass has been of accomplishments and in the sense of chosen as a winner of the 2016 UIL Sponsor bonding with the students.

Excellence Award.

“It’s very rewarding to sponsor something Only 15 UIL sponsors in Texas are like this, because you get to see students recognized each year with the award and in a different way, outside of the classroom, are selected by a panel of judges from all where you can get to know them better areas of UIL: music, academics, and athletics, as individuals.” after being nominated by superintendents In her more than 30 years of teaching and and principals from districts throughout the sponsoring, one of Kass’ favorite things is state. This year, Kass was seeing the students she has recognized as one of the coached in UIL academics 15 for 2016. As a winner, succeed themselves.

Kass will receive a symbolic “Obviously it’s wonderful memento and $1,000 to watch them win a gold for her contributions to medal,” Kass said, “but even interscholastic competition. when they don’t win, the “I’ve been very humbled,” knowledge and work ethic Kass said, “There are so they’ve learned usually gives many talented coaches, and them a big advantage later to be included with those on when they’re either photo by Pamela Arrington recognized is going through a degree plan, quite an honor.” getting into college, seeking scholarships, or Earning this achievement has helped Kass in their career.” reflect on the circumstances that make With Head Girls Basketball Coach Skip Argyle successful, such as the talented Townsend receiving the UIL Sponsor students, supportive parents, knowledgeable Excellence Award last year, colleagues and excellent and Cliff McCurdy receiving administrators who have the award in 2004, Kass contributed to the six hopes that more Argyle individual overall science sponsors will win state champions, almost 40 in the future. students placing in the top six for “It’s really a big honor,” Kass said, state science, and ten science team “And I’m hoping more of Argyle’s state championships. talented coaches are recognized.” “[Receiving the award] has made me very cognizant of the

TMSCA

TEAM

A

rgyle won the TMSCA state meet in San Antonio. This is the 15th year in a row that Argyle has brought home the championship trophy! We want to congratulate the teachers and students who work so hard to accomplish these great achievements.

photo above provided by Mrs. Kimberly Kass AHS Senior Justin Clark made a name for himself at the TMSCA State Competition in San Antonio over the weekend. He placed 1st in number sense (meet high score 2A - 6A), 1st calculator (meet high score 2A - 6A), 1st mathematics, 4th science, High physics (medal) and placed 1st Top Gun receiving a $1100 scholarship.

Congratulations Justin!

photo above provided by Mrs. Phyllis Clark Spring / Summer 2017 • Argyle Insights •

31

ARGYLE SOFTBALL

THE 2017 SEASON

by Kevin Cook

T

he current season has the Argyle Lady Aring have made great contributions during Eagles Softball team playing for the area the season. Lauren and Kate have formed a championship. This is the first time in three pitching-catching battery that produced all of years the girls have been in the playoffs and our district wins. Sarah has been our leading it’s only the fourth time the softball team has hitter and has played mistake free at first base. been in the playoffs in its history.

The team is rounded out with freshmen The year started off with wins in the Ft Lanie Rodgers, Abby Williams, Grash Rash, and Worth Brewer and Granbury tournaments. move ups Katie Boyzuick and Tori Hamilton.

We had pre-district games with Celina, These girls have added talent and enthusiasm Springtown, and Burkburnett. to our team. Abby has added The team finished district with speed to our leadoff position The team has a 5-5 record to finish in third and plays second base. Lanie been blessed place and qualify for the playoffs. has started in the outfield, with to have the Seniors Callye Leenhouts, stints at shortstop and first base. leadership Heather Atkinson, and Tori Grace has been a great addition of two Burke have led the team this to our outfield. outstanding year. Tori and Heather played The team has been blessed assistant the outfield and Callye was our to have the leadership of two coaches shortstop. Tori is one of the outstanding assistant coaches in team leaders in batting average.

Mandy Barnett and Lance Sutton. Mandy runs Callye and Heather have been outstanding the infield and Lance gives direction to the on defense. outfield. It is awesome to have their input in all Juniors Marley Straubmueller and Shealyn phases of our season.

McNulty have added additional leadership.

The program has been growing for the third Marley has had a tremendous year hitting, straight year and all of these girls have been including a walk-off hit against Sanger and a part of this success. Thanks to all the parents game tying home run against Bridgeport. and fans who have seen us play this year.

Sophomores Sarah Oellerman, Lauren Kraus, Kate Repp, and Newcomer Samantha #changetheculture

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• Argyle Insights • Spring / Summer 2017

MICHAEL HOPE DAY T

he AHS Senior class declared March 9th as “Michael Hope Day”. The Senior Class and AHS honored Michael with a luncheon and special presentation. Michael has been a member of the senior class throughout his years in Argyle ISD until the beginning of his high school years in which he started attending a home school program due to his battle with Duchenne Muscular Dystrophy. The senior class sold bracelets “United with Hope” with proceeds going to research for Duchenne Muscular Dystrophy. March 9th was a very special day for Michael. His classmates & AHS Principal Mr. Hill gave him a special welcome. AHS Senior Brayden Ratcliff presented The Hope Family with a donation to help in the research of Duchenne Muscular Dystrophy.

AHS PTO

Spring Break Kick Off Luncheon

Spring / Summer 2017 • Argyle Insights •

33

Argyle Choir 2017

our end of the year spring concert which will feature the 4th grade music students and

Building a Foundation

by William Griswold

T

he “Start of Something New” is not just a classic Disney Channel hit song from

that should never stop us. We can always go

2nd/3rd grade choir. And finally an emotional performance of “You’ll Never Walk Alone” from Carousel at graduation to close out our year.

Next year our opportunities for students to

back to the beginning, assess our mistakes, and

sing will increase tremendously. More students

the movie High School Musical. It is exactly

take another pass. The choir room is a safe

will be cast in our high school production of

what Argyle ISD set out to do last year in the

place – a place to feel encouraged, welcomed,

Legally Blonde the Musical than ever before

2015-2016 school year when, for the first time

and at home.

in AISD. For the first time, choir students

in almost 20 years, a choir program

This year choir performed our opening

from the middle school and high school will

Fall Concert in October and soon after

be auditioning for All-Region and All-State

performed a beautiful arrangement of “In

Choirs. Students will be taking voice lessons,

Secondary School, choir had never been

Flanders Fields” at the Argyle Middle School

receiving audition coaching, and stepping into

offered as an elective during the day. Now,

Veterans Day Program. In December, the high

leadership roles that will challenge their skills

in only its second year of existence, almost

school and middle school choirs were joined

and personalities. Finally, we will be kicking off

30 students are involved and more than 200

by the 4th grade music choir and the 2nd and

the year with a fun and enthusiastic week of

students have participated this year.

3rd grade choir. Performing classic holiday

Choir Camp right before school starts.

was started.

Since 1999 with the opening of Argyle

There are many challenges to building a

hits as well as contemporary winter songs

choir program from the ground up. How do

to a packed high school auditorium was an

opportunity to lead this program for many

students find out about choir? Where is the

experience our students will not forget.

years to come.

choir room? What even happens in choir?

During the winter, the high school and

My goal from day one of this school year

middle school choirs had the opportunity to

was creating exposure. We want everyone in

perform at the Argyle Christmas Festival &

the district to know choir has arrived and is

Tree Lighting. After performing our main set

here to stay. We began the year with 15 choir

we walked throughout the venue and sang

students and have grown to almost 30 in only

classic carols.

eight months. Next year we are predicting at least 50-60.

With the end of the school year in sight,

Choir is truly a family. We build each other

at our official UIL Concert and Sight-Reading Contest on April 11th at Denton High School.

time we come together for rehearsal we have

Other end of the year performances include a

an opportunity to improve. We never want to

trip to Argyle Intermediate School to perform

waste an opportunity to do something better,

for the 5th Grade Students, our inaugural high

a mantra that I believe rings true in all aspects

school fine arts showcase entitled “Shine” on

of our lives. Life is full of first-time fails, but

May 4th at 7:00 p.m. at Argyle High School,

• Argyle Insights • Spring / Summer 2017

This year we have built the rock on which we will stand for years to come.

choir will have the opportunity to perform

up and we push each other to be better. Every

34

As a first year teacher, I am grateful for the

photo by Pam Arrington

February 10th, 2017 at Argyle High School

Spring / Summer 2017 • Argyle Insights •

35

H-E-B Excellence STATE in Education Awards AHS WRESTLER HEATH ROTH

CHAMPION

H

eath finished his freshmen wrestling season undefeated 61-0 with a State Championship at 120 lbs. The State Tournament in Houston started off with a bang with a pin in his first match in only 24 seconds. He won his quarter final match 8-1. In the Semifinal match he dominated his opponent pinning him in the 1st period. The Finals was hard fought against Lubbock with heath coming out on top 3-2.

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• Argyle Insights • Spring / Summer 2017

photos provided by HEB

S

even North Texas educators were named finalists for the 2017 H-E-B Excellence in Education Awards, spotlighting them as some of the best educators in Texas.

H-E-B’s Excellence in Education is the largest monetary awards program for educators in Texas, and among the largest in the nation. The honor was kept a surprise from the educators, who learned they were finalists when H-E-B representatives visited their classrooms and schools with balloons, cookies and flowers.

Five teachers were presented with a $1,000 check for themselves and a $1,000 check for their schools. Two principals received a $1,000 check for themselves and a $2,500 check for their school. We want to recognize Mrs. Brenda Williams, Argyle Intermediate School, Argyle ISD (Leadership Elementary) for being named a finalist.

COACH

TOWNSEND

RETIRES

by Connor Repp

B

ehind every great team is a great coach and the Lady Eagles basketball team definitely has that in one of the legends in coaching, Skip Townsend. The Lady Eagles head coach has accomplished a lot in his storied career: 1,000 wins, 9 state titles, a Texas High School Basketball Hall of Fame inductee last year, and two turn-arounds in both the Brock and Argyle programs that turned the schools into perennial state title contenders. Earlier this year, he was awarded coach of the year by the Texas High school Coaches Association.

Townsend has lead the Lady Eagles to four straight state title appearances and back to back to back state titles.

“That award was given to me by my peers,”Coach Townsend said. “That’s people who coach and know what coaching is and so it’s a real honor when your peers give you an honor.” Coach Townsend said.

Even before his great run at Argyle, Townsend was a coaching legend, leading Brock to six titles in 10 years before leaving for Argyle. The departure of the Eagles’ previous coach left the team with a big void to fill, and athletic director, Todd Rodgers, wanted a big name head coach. The move was made to go with Townsend. The move to Argyle had to be tough after such a storied run of success with Brock. Townsend left Brock in a good place; they won two state titles in the years after his departure.

“It was hard because my kids had graduated from there,” Townsend said, “And after I left they won two more state titles after I worked hard to build that program, so it was very hard.”

For the Eagles, Townsend amassed a record of 176-29 with three state titles and one runner up finish. The meteoric rise for Argyle

began in 2012 when the team went 25-7 and in the following year, made a run to the regional quarterfinals before making it to state in his third year behind the Freshman trio of Vivian Gray, Madison Ralston, and Jocelyn Pierce. However, the season ended with a narrow loss to Waco La Vega in the UIL State Tournament. The next year, the Eagles came for revenge, beating La Vega in the state semifinals and Abilene Wylie in the finals. Two years and two state titles later, the Eagles finished another strong season with a record of 37-2 and their third straight state title.

photo by Caleb Miles

Spring / Summer 2017 • Argyle Insights •

37

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

WINTERGUARD

ARGYLE HS BAND GO TO SAN ANTONIO TX MUSIC EDUCATORS CONFERENCE In February members of the Argyle High School Eagle Band traveled to San Antonio for the Texas Music Educators Conference. These seven students auditioned with thousands of other students in the state to be selected as a member of the Texas All-State Band. The students were Audrey Livingston on flute, Emma Webb on Clarinet, Sierra Albanesi on saxophone, Madalyn Williams on bass trombone, Chloe Kokenes on euphonium, Gabriella Cate and Patrick DeSpain, both on percussion.

The All-State Band process started back in December with students from all over the state auditioning at the region level, then a select group went on to the Areal level, and finally a select few completed the process at the state level. While in San Antonio students rehearsed for 4 days with students from all over the state with a nationally renowned guest conductor. The experience ended with a concert on Saturday, February 11th for all of the Texas music educators in the state and the families of the all-state students. These students represented Argyle and the state of Texas very well.

Pictured above and right: Argyle High School Band 2016-17 All-State students While in San Antonio, Emma Webb was one of only four music students in the state of Texas to be awarded the TMEA Past Presidents Scholarship. In addition, Sierra Albanesi was awarded a scholarship from ATSSB for being a three year all-state student.

Pictured above: Emma Webb, Past Presidents Scholarship

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• Argyle Insights • Spring / Summer 2017

Pictured above: Sierra Albanesi ATSSB 3 Year All-State Student Scholarship

The Argyle Winterguard performed it’s 2017 contest program entitled, “Go Forth”, at the North Texas State Color Guard Contest hosted at Denton-Guyer High School on March 5th. Out of the 25 participating schools, Argyle sweeps every caption award, and wins 1st place overall. The Winter Guard continues to compete both locally and nationally, winning several caption awards throughout the North Texas region. For the first time in school history, the Winter Guard competed at the Winter Guard International (WGI) – Dallas Power Regional event hosted at Coppell High School on February 25th. Out of 45 participating schools from across the country, Argyle finished 16th.

The Winter Guard also hosted a Spaghetti Dinner before their community preview performances and Spring Show on April 21st. It was open to the public.

All current and prospective Color Guard members began their training sessions and rehearsals on Thursday, March 30th, which met at the Middle School Band Hall from 6:00-8:00pm.

AHS BAND PERFORMANCES Members of the Argyle High School bands performed chamber music for a panel of judges in February where they received Superior ratings from their judges. The following morning students performed a Chamber Music Concert for “Music in the Morning� in the AHS auditorium. And on March 6th, the awarding winning Argyle percussion students presented a night of percussion chamber music. All students were placed in a variety of ensembles, performing for a near full house.

High school band students prepared for a Pre-UIL assessment on March 31st which was followed by the official UIL Concert & Sightreading contest on April 13th.

Upcoming High School Events: Spring Concert, May 18 Directors Choice Festival, May 19 Band Banquet, May 19 Spring Trip, May 20-23

Argyle Archery Team Goes to Nationals

W

e are proud to announce that there were two archery teams competing from Argyle ISD at The National Archery Competition in Louisville Kentucky in May. Two teams placed at the State Competition that was held in Belton, TX. One Elementary Team and one Middle School Team qualified. There was one Elementary Team and one Middle School Team.

Congratulations to the archers and coaches!

GIVING CREDIT WHERE CREDIT IS DUE

by Jake Fischer

I

n one of our old family albums is an 8x10 black and white photograph. It’s a portrait of a goofy looking, but steelyeyed kid in a football uniform. Black jersey, number 64, white pants, squinting into the sun with fresh looking crew cut hair. A perfect four point stance. I was six years old and played guard for the Jaycees Southside Panthers and we were Oklahoma City Little League champions in 1966. This photo, another one of the entire team, a program from the championship game, my tiny letter jacket and a gold trophy all testify to my participation, but sadly time has misplaced all but a few flashes of this experience and I really don’t remember very much of it at all. I remember a little bit about practices. I remember where we played, I remember my buddy and fellow guard Rocky Winkle, but what I remember most clearly is Coach Tommy James. He seemed like a giant to me back then with a voice like thunder. He stood straight and tall like a chiseled statue and most

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• Argyle Insights • Spring / Summer 2017

importantly, after all these years, I remember he made me feel like I could do anything.

Turn a few pages and there I am again in 1974. A little taller. The photo is in color. I’m skinny but I look a little more athletic. My hair is a bit longer and my uniform here is red and white spandex, white headgear and white wrestling shoes. A referee is raising my hand in the center of a wrestling mat and I’m looking off to the side. I’m grinning from ear to ear. I remember much more about all that goes with this picture and I know exactly why I’m not looking at the camera. I am looking for - Randy Jacoby. He was my junior high wrestling coach. I couldn’t wait to leave the mat and run and jump into his arms. “We” had just won the Oklahoma Junior High State tournament and I wanted nothing more at that moment than to celebrate with him. This man taught me more about perseverance, self control, commitment, and sacrifice than I could ever imagine. He pushed me beyond what I thought was possible. He was unwavering

and relentless when he taught. He refused, and better than that, he taught us to refuse to accept anything less than our best at whatever we were doing. He taught his science classes the same way. I remember times in practice when I thought he was truly trying to kill us, but I never doubted his resolve to make us the best wrestlers and the best young men we could be, I admired him then, and I admire him still.

A few pages more, and there I am again in 1977. This time I’m wearing what was my last high school football uniform. I look like any high school football player after a game. I’m sweaty and dirty with grass stained pants. I look exhausted. I’m holding my helmet in one hand as I make my way through the crowd and off the field after coming up 4 points short in the 3A State Championship game at Norris Field in Ada Oklahoma. My head is bowed and I am visibly disappointed, but walking beside me is another of the coaches that helped shape me into the man I would later become. Wayne Hallmark was my secondary coach and he was a model of everything I wanted to be. He was confident.

He was enthusiastic. He was demanding. He was knowledgeable. He truly enjoyed doing what he did. In the picture he was telling me the only thing that I really wanted to hear, and though it didn’t change my disappointment of losing the game, it gave me what I most needed at that time - “Fisch” he said, “Get your head up - I’m very proud of you”.

Later that year, I took another picture and it’s in that same album. This time I’m standing on the awards podium at the Oklahoma State Track Meet in my track uniform. Around my neck hangs my runner up medal for the pole vault. I’m in my red track uniform and again, I’m not looking at the camera. I’m looking for my track coach, Ron Gilliam. I knew he’d be standing among the people crowded

I’ve been a teacher and a high school around us. I wanted desperately to read the look on his face. I was afraid he would coach now for 25 years. I’ve seen literally be disappointed. He had worked with me thousands of faces come and go. I’ve made every day of track season and more days great friends along the way. I’ve seen kids than I could count during the offseason. He win at the highest level and I’ve seen kids made sure I had everything I needed to struggle to make sense out of just getting succeed. I admired him for his through the day. Not a day poise, his perseverance and his “I’d want them passes that I don’t consider dedication to his career. He my coaches when I talk to to know that was another coach who, when a player or a student or a I take pride I became a man, I wanted to fellow coach for that matter. in what I do be like. When I finally saw These coaches were the because of him, tears came to my eyes. men who shaped my life.

He was absolutely beaming. the pride they These coaches were the men Not because I had gotten took in what who modeled for me what second place, but because they did.” a coach should be. I often “we” had set a personal lament that I may not have record and the hard work told them how important they were to me. and the time he had committed to me had I think I did, but I wish I could be sure. If I paid off in the best way possible. I had done could, I’d want them to know that not a day the best I could and he and I both knew it goes by that I don’t try and emulate them in couldn’t have happened any other way. He some way. I’d want them to know that I take shook my hand, turned my medal over in pride in what I do because of the pride they his hand and said “I told you, I told you, you took in what they did. Most of all I’d want to could do it.” I held onto his hand and said thank them.

“Not without you coach, not without you.”

World Down Syndrome Day

S

tudents & Teachers at Argyle High School brought awareness to World Down Syndrome Day by wearing crazy socks to school.

Spring / Summer 2017 • Argyle Insights •

41

Lady Eagles

BASKETBALL

by GiGi Robertson and Campbell Wilmot

T

he Lady Eagles defeated Liberty Hill in the finals of the state girls basketball tournament with a final score of 40-30, making them three-time state champions on March 4, 2017.

Having played Liberty Hill before, the bench knew that they would have to play well to make the win.

“We were playing a really good team, a team that knows us very well. We’ve beaten them two times,” said Head Coach Skip Townsend.

Argyle began the first quarter with a 3-pointer made by freshman Brooklyn Carl (11). With 2:39 left in the same frame, Jocelyn Pierce (10) pushes for two and successfully makes it to the basket updating the score to 5-0.

“They don’t let you make mistakes,” Coach Chris Lange of the Liberty Hill Lady Panthers said.

With two minutes left in the first quarter Liberty Hill’s Sedona Prince (23) added points to the board by making a successful jumper, followed by a layup making the score 5-4. In the final seconds of the first quarter Liberty Hill’s Kandyn Faurie (32) made a contested 3-pointer in the final seconds ending the first quarter with a score of 7-7.

Starting a rocky second quarter, Liberty Hill’s Andrea House (03) fouled Carl, giving her two free throw attempts to bring the score up to 9-7. After the Eagles’ defensive rebound and a foul on Prince, the Panthers called a timeout with 3:34 left on the clock in the first half. A defensive rebound by Gray late in the second quarter and a pass outside set up Standifer (33) to shoot a successful three.

With one second left on the clock, Standifer

During the fourth period, the Panthers

(33) made a three, ending the second quarter

worked hard to match the Eagles’ lead.

with the Lady Eagles maintaining a 17-13 lead.

Liberty Hills’ Bethany McLeod (10) started

“We had one goal in mind and that

off by making a layup, which was answered

was to make state again and win the state

immediately by another three from Standifer

championship,” Standifer said.

(33). After a timeout by the Eagles, Liberty

The second half of the state game

Hills’ Kasye Bevers (10) fouled Sophie

began with just as much intensity

Betzhold (14). Gray made two more free

as the first. Gray pulled in an

throws with one second left on the board,

offensive rebound and put in a

which brought an end to her high school

layup to make the score 19-13.

career and pushed the Lady Eagles to 40

The Panthers went on to foul

points, ending the game with the Lady Eagles

twice, which brought Madison

winning 40-30 over the Liberty Hill Lady

Ralston (22) to the line to shoot two successful free throws. With

Panthers.

“I think the feeling is better this year

two seconds left, Prince (23) missed a

because we are going out on a win. That is

three that left the score at 28-22 with Argyle

what we have wanted to do since we were

in the lead.

freshmen, we have always wanted to win a

“This year, every practice has been ten

State Championship, we got the three-peat

times more intense,” Pierce said. “We just took

and we were legendary,” Senior Vivian

it game by game.”

Gray said.

photo by Caleb Miles

Argyle High School Varsity

BASEBALL We are so proud of the AHS Baseball Team - STATEBOUND

Congratulations to Weitzer & Sheridan

A

HS Seniors Logan Weitzer and Molly Sheridan advance to Business Professionals of America Nationals for Payroll Accounting and Advance Accounting.

Congratulations to these two students and their sponsor Mr. Rahman.

Spring / Summer 2017 • Argyle Insights •

43

SUMMER

SPORTS

Please note: All grade designations are for the 2017-18 school year

Camps

BASEBALL

SOFTBALL

Grades 6-8, 6:30-7:30 p.m. - Wednesdays

June 12-15 (Monday-Thursday) Grades 2-6, 8:30-11:30 a.m.

Grades 7-9, 1:00-4:00 p.m.

June 6-9 (Tuesday-Friday) Grades 3-5, 8:30-10:30 a.m.

$6 each session – Free t-shirt after 5 sessions *No session on July 5th

Fee: $100, Location: Baseball Field

Grades 6-9, 9:00-12:00 noon

VOLLEYBALL

Fee: $90, Location: AHS Softball Field

Middle School June 27-30 (Tuesday-Friday) Grades 6-8,9:00-12:00 noon

Fee: $60, Location: AHS Softball Field

BASKETBALL – BOYS June 19-22 (Monday-Thursday) Grades 3-6, 8:30-11:30 a.m.

Grades 7-9, 1:00-4:00 p.m.

SUMMER CONDITIONINGHIGH SCHOOL / MIDDLE SCHOOL

Fee: $125 by June 20th Location: AHS Gym

Fee: $100, Location: AHS & AMS Gyms

June 12-July 27 (Monday - Thursday) HS Group A*/Group B*, 7:30-9:00 a.m. (boys)

June 26-29 (Monday-Thursday) Grades K-2, 10:00-12:00 noon

9th Grade, 8:00-9:30 a.m. (boys)

Fee: $100 by June 20th Location: AHS Gym

8th Grade, 8:30-10:00 a.m. (boys plus all girls

Volleyball – Team Camp Grades 9-12 July 24, 2:00 – 5:00 p.m. and July 25 & 26, 12:00-5:00 p.m.

Fee: $60, Location: Hilltop Gym

BASKETBALL – GIRLS June 12-15 (Monday-Thursday) Grades 1-5, 9:00-12:00 noon Grades 6-9, 1:00-4:00 p.m.

in 7th-12th grades who HAVE lifted before)

7th Grade, 9:00-10:30 a.m. (boys plus all girls in 7th-12th grades who HAVE NOT lifted before)

Fee: $100, Location: AHS Gym

Fee: $35/wk or $180/session – session is 6 weeks Location: Field House

FOOTBALL

No Summer Conditioning during the week of July 4th

July 24-27 (Monday-Thursday) Grades 1-6, 8:30-11:30 a.m.

Fee: $100, Location: Football Stadium

July 31-Aug 3 (Monday-Thursday) Grades 7-9, 7:30-10:30 a.m.

Fee: $100, Location: Football Stadium

SOCCER – COED June 19-22 (Monday - Thursday) Grades 3-5, 8:00-10:00 a.m.

Grades 6-9, 10:30-12:30 p.m.

Fee: $100, Location: Football Stadium

*HS groups determined by Coach based on number of participants

TENNIS June 12-15 (Monday-Thursday) Grades K-2, 10:00-12:00 noon Fee: $60 Location: Tennis Courts July 10-13 (Monday-Thursday) Grades K-2, 10:00-12:00 noon Fee: $60 Location: Tennis Courts

Weekly Junior Development Camps Grades 3-5, 5:30-6:15 p.m. – Wednesdays

Elementary/Intermediate June 27-30 (Tuesday-Friday) Grades 2-5, 1:00-3:30 p.m.

Fee: $110 by 1st day of camp Location: AHS Gym

Visit ArgyleISD.com for more information on Summer Sports Camps, Athletic Schedules and other important information

Spring / Summer 2017 • Argyle Insights •

45

ARGYLE EAGLES

BASKETBALL

by Stacy Short

T

he Argyle Eagles (31-6) faced off against the top-ranked Silsbee Tigers (31-6) at the Alamodome in the Class 4A state semifinal game in March. Playing for a “bigger purpose” in honor of #35 Alex Betzhold, who would have been a senior this year, the boys basketball team held their own against a feisty swarm of Tigers, ultimately falling in 46-45 in the last two seconds of the game.

“All you ask is to get a shot, it just didn’t go in,” head coach Russell Perkins said.

The Eagles have had a rough road the whole season, being in the shadow of the state bound girls basketball team, and despite what many people thought, the boys were preparing for a state run, playing solid offense and defense throughout the season.

“There’s not very many people that thought we could do this. People did not even believe that we could make it this far,” Perkins said.

“We’ve had 15 players and three other coaches that talked about it a lot and said this is something we can do. We have been working hard preparing for this moment all season.”

As the game began, Silsbee scored six unanswered points before Argyle would come back and end the first quarter up 12-9 with

point contributions from David Davis (5), Nathan Priddy (3), and Christian Splain (4). Jon Harding and Nathan White also led the defense.

On the bench at the end of the first quarter, Silsbee’s head coach Joe Sigler said to his players, “We got to D-up.” And when the second quarter started, the Tigers promptly followed suit with both defense and offense, running down the court and scoring 2, then another 2, to take the lead.

The play during the second quarter did not change drastically, with both teams scrapping for points and working a solid defense, but the third quarter proved to be more intense. With the Eagles working their way back up the board, Silsbee only putting up four points to Argyle’s 10 points. With 30 seconds left, senior Nathan Priddy (3) scored a three pointer at the end to put the Eagles back on top 33-31.

“If you’re going to play the number one team in the state,” Perkins said, “Let’s work on them and see what we can do, just give it a shot.”

Senior captain David Davis was a key to slowing down the Tigers.

“Silsbee is obviously an incredible team and they forced us to speed up the game,” he said.

Senior Brandon White (1) dribbles past Silsbee’s senior Willie Jones (11). The Argyle Eagles boys basketball team toook third place in the UIL division 4A tournament, falling to #1 ranked Silsbee Tigers on March 10, 2017 at the Alamodome in San Antonio, TX. (Quinn Calendine / The Talon News ) 46

• Argyle Insights • Spring / Summer 2017

“We just didn’t put in enough shots to win.”

Senior guard Trajan Harris hit 4-for-4 off the free throw line in the last two minutes of the game, changing the tempo of the game, and putting the Tigers back on top 46-45.

“Four in a row. I had to go hunt him down and tell him,” Sigler said. “Those were big.”

When it came down to the final moments of the game, all the stars had to align to get the shots right, and no one knew what the result would be until the final second when the buzzer sounded.

“We got a chance from a kid who hits that all the time and has a great look for us and Nathan [Priddy] did a great job, and I knew they were going to come doubling and get the ball out of his hands, and he got it to the right guy to shoot it and we were wide open,” he said. “Sometimes it just doesn’t go in.”

Coach Perkins set a play in motion at the end of the game that had worked all year. The Silsbee players double-teamed Priddy, forcing a pass to junior Blaze McMellian.

“I was holding the best player #3 [Nathan Priddy], a pretty good player” senior Bruce Newton (1) said. “I saw [Priddy] pass the ball.

I saw my whole senior year going down the drain, and when he missed it, I just collapsed and thanked God.” Coach Sigler had played Argyle before, noting that Argyle was the toughest team they had played this year. He credited the team’s success to their “pack-line” defense and his own players’ failure to put shots on the board tonight.

“That’s your season, basically, right there in flight,” Sigler said. “The style of playing that was here today, our shooting was terrible, we couldn’t make any shots.”

At the end of the game, the “shot” didn’t really matter, and it wasn’t the shot that won or lost the game. Instead, the real shot came down to the opportunity to play the big game.

It had much more to do with the preparation, hard work and determination that brought the whole team to the state tournament.

“The pressure is relentless, but I don’t think that broke us,” Perkins said. “Sometimes the shot just doesn’t go in and that’s what happened,” he said. “[But] I couldn’t be prouder of these guys and the whole team, and just the preparation we’ve been through all year long.”