Argyle ISD Insights Magazine Spring 2020

Olympics Argyle Special

Published by

www.Murray-Media.com

The Official Magazine of the Argyle Independent School District

spring 2020

BRENDA WILLIAMS ROBOTICS + ARCADE

Spring 2020 • Argyle Insights •

3

Argyle

Board of

Trustees T

he 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.

Get to

Know ARGYLE ISD

Deana Steeber Assistant Superintendent

Sam Slaton Board President

Jeff Williams Member

Mandi Murphy Hilltop Principal

Renee Funderburg Argyle West Principal

Scott Gibson Argyle Middle School Principal

John King Argyle High School Principal

Todd Rodgers Athletic Director

Brad Lowry Member

Dr. Leona McDade Member

Ritchie Deffenbaugh Member

4

Chris Daniel Deputy Superintendent

Dr. John Bitter Vice President

Dr. Dawn Jordan Argyle Intermediate School Principal Craig Hawkesworth Secretary

Elizabeth Stewart Chief Financial Officer

Dr. Telena Wright Superintendent

• Argyle Insights • Spring 2020

Chance Westmoreland Girls Athletic Coordinator

Jason Bird AISD Band Director

Pamela Arrington Communications Director

Greg Royar Technology Director

Albert Rutledge Transportation Director

Tommy Ledford Maintenance Director

Amy Bresnahan AISD Food Services Director

Chief Cairney AISD Police Chief

Table of Publishers Scott & Kelly Murray Editors Jana Melton Bobbi Byrne Pamela Arrington Contributors Argyle ISD Steve Gamel Brooke Ezzo

ARGYLE SPEC IAL OLYM PI CS

GO FOR THE GOLD

Advertising Kelly Murray kelly@murray-media.com

Read More About Us on Page 38

Argyle ISD News

06 A Message from The Superintendent

32 Argyle Intermediate School Spring Update

07

How Your Child’s Sleep Affects Their Brain

08

Greetings from The Hilltop Elementary Principal

09

Updates from Hilltop

10

Argyle High School Choir

12

Argyle Comes Together to Help Others

13

15

16 Argyle Eagle Partners

17

18

30

33

High School Band Updates

Congratulations Mrs. Hocking

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.

Dr. McDade Visits STEM Class at AIS

36

High School Sports Schedules

40

Majestics Drill Team

41

AHS Principal Update

Contact Us

42

Make a Wish Foundation Callie Darnell

Argyle West Welcome from The Principal

44

Life Skills at AHS

46

Tower Gardens

Argyle Anonymous

46 Project Adam

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 April 6, 2020.

All-District Volleyball 2019

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

Photo Pages

03 Brenda Williams Robotics + Arcade

Thoroughly Modern Millie

14

21

Author Carmen Oliver Visits Hilltop Elementary

16

Kindergarten Holiday Musical Performance

22

Tennis Team Finishes Strong

Argyle West Harmony Choir

24

Hilltop 3rd Grade Toydrive

25 Congratulations Argyle Choir

20

Graphic Designers Alyson Modene Caroline Brock

33

A Message from the AMS Principal Mr. Gibson

Production Art Director Lizeth Wallace

26

Argyle Welcomes New Chief of Police

29

Argyle Football District 7-4A All District Team 2019

21

Altruismo Wins

27

AIS Library Gingerbread House Competition

28

STEM Night with the Perot Museum

34

January School Board Recognition

Elves at Argyle Intermediate

43

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. © 2020 Murray Media Group. www.Murray-Media.com

Spring 2020 • Argyle Insights •

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Afrom Message Dr. Telena Wright, Argyle ISD Superintendent

A

AISD be able to have their voices heard in elections.

Please make sure you are registered to vote and that you vote in all elections.

AISD will have a school board election in May 2020. This is an opportunity for you to become involved in your school district. You may file for a position up to

s a new decade begins, Argyle ISD continues to grow rapidly. Growth

above 10% each year is projected through the 2022-23 school year. West Elementary is currently at 751 students. This campus opened on August 19 in all areas with the exception of the library.

The library was completed by the end of November, and a dedication and ribbon cutting was held for the school on December 3.

West provides instructional space for Grades PK-5

Once the third school is built the zoning will change, and Trailwood Terrace and Canyon Falls will go to the

There are ongoing opportunities for you to become involved in the school district, whether you have students enrolled or not.

and currently includes

new school.

Phase II of Argyle HS

district, whether you have students enrolled or not. On our website, we complete. We want to engage our

This phase will provide

students and staff with our community.

instructional space for 1,750 students as well as additional fine arts space, an auditorium, and a competition gym. In the Fall of 2021, this building is planned to become the high school; the current high school will become the middle school.

One question I am

included in the 2017 bond.

• Argyle Insights • Spring 2020

you to become involved in the school

24-month building process.

Harvest students who reside in AISD. elementary in Canyon Falls.

There are ongoing opportunities for

have a volunteer application you may

frequently asked is if there was a stadium

The 2017 bond included funds for a third

February 14, 2020.

at Canyon Falls is in a

all Trailwood Terrace, Canyon Falls, and

6

very important that all residents of

No, there was no stadium; another bond will be required for a stadium. It is

Dr. Telena Wright Argyle ISD Superintendent

Sleep How Your Child’s

Affects Their brain

S

leep is vital for everyone’s brain health, especially for growing and developing

It can be difficult to tell if your child is getting the right amount of sleep. Even if you

sleep difficulties by tricking the brain into thinking it should still be awake.

kids. Without enough sleep, certain cognitive

put your child to bed at the right time, they

(brain) functions may not work as effectively

may have trouble falling asleep. A child who

The right sleep environment can help

as they otherwise could.

can’t fall asleep or wakes up often during the

your child fall asleep and stay asleep.

If children do not get enough sleep, you may see negative effects on attention and emotional regulation. The brain needs enough ‘brainpower’ to be able to control those automatic, knee jerk, emotional reactions. Kids without enough sleep may have trouble with regulation of impulsivity and may contribute to frustration and irritability.

Children who aren’t sleeping enough may also have trouble paying attention in school.

They may start to have behavior problems, such as tantrums or extreme reactions to small events, at both school and home.

How much sleep does your child need?

According to the American Academy of Pediatrics, your child should sleep: • 12 to 16 hours per day (including naps) between ages 4 months and 12 months • 11 to 14 hours per day (including naps) between ages 1 and 2 • 10 to 13 hours per day (including naps) between ages 3 and 5 • 9 to 12 hours per day between ages 6 and 12 • 8 to 10 hours per day between ages 13 and 18

night may have a sleep disorder, or this may simply be indicative of anxiety. Fear of the dark and/or fear of having nightmares are common issues, as well.

How to help your child get enough sleep If you think your child isn’t getting enough sleep, the first step is to talk to them about their sleep experience. Ask how long it takes them to fall asleep, how often they wake up in the middle of the night, and how long they are awake when they do wake up. Quietly checking on your child or setting up a video monitor in their room may help you determine if any issues are occurring.

Try the following tips to for better rest: • Move up bedtime. Set your child’s

• Create a good sleep environment.

Your child’s bedroom should be: • Dark, with only one dim nightlight if necessary • Cool, ideally below 74 degrees • Quiet, with only a small amount of white noise (e.g., a fan), if necessary • Screen-free, including televisions, smartphones, computers, and tablets • Avoid late-night treats. Avoid sugary foods for a couple of hours before bedtime to help him/her rest easier.

Caffeinated drinks should not be consumed within six hours of bedtime. **If sleep patterns do not improve, a further workup with your pediatrician may be warranted to determine an underlying medical cause. **

bedtime earlier.

• Establish a routine. Follow a regular bedtime routine – such as taking a bath, brushing teeth, and then reading for a short period of time. A routine can be calming for children.

• Avoid screens prior to bedtime. Lights from electronic screens within a couple hours of bedtime can disrupt the brain’s circadian rhythms and contribute to

940.455.7200 | www.LantanaPediatrics.com | 74 McMakin Rd., Ste. 100 • Bartonville, TX 76226 Mon, Tues, Thurs: 7:30am-5pm | Wed: 7:30am-12:30pm | Fri: 7:30am-4pm | Sat: 9am-12pm

Spring 2020 • Argyle Insights •

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Greetings From The

Hilltop Elementary Principal The ABC’s are harder for parents than children.

A

student walked past me on his way to

Parents, I encourage you, before you

do more play in elementary!” We agree they

class one morning. He gave a nod and

rescue them, consider the impact of their

are playing with the knowledge. Sometimes

said, “Make it a good day, Mrs. Murphy!”

character developing during the struggle.

teachers guide them and sometimes

I nodded, “Of course! And I know you will,

Recognize the power in your encouragement.

students investigate.

too.” And he does. This child works so hard.

And when you doubt, tell the teacher. We

He does his very best every day, but most

can arm you with helpful tidbits to decrease

often he does not understand new concepts quickly.

It’s not a learning disability; he can do the work.

Recognize the power in your encouragement

Teachers must

strife, but for the most part, they

House Teams and Celebrating the Positives This year, Hilltop teamed with AIS and

are brave and

implemented our own House System

diligent workers.

modeled after the Ron Clark Academy.

Do not let the

All children and every staff member belongs

negativity of

to one of four teams. The teams recognize

society say our

strong character, academic excellence, and

repeat the information, he plays with the

children do not power through difficult work.

positive support for one another. It has

concept, tries and fails, and then eventually,

YES, they do! And parents, we learn through

been a fun and engaging way to increase

he owns it. The work is hard, yet every day,

our children, how to learn our own ABCs.

interaction with peers and adults in all grade levels. It has raised our school spirit and

he walks in with a smile on his face and joy in his heart ready to work.

Many of our students have similar experiences. Learning is challenging, and there is so much to remember. They often

Considerations for Hilltop Teacher personality vs Consistent Patterns is what is the right amount of curriculum

of his life will be improved because of

guidance and teacher structure for

his ability to understand the ABCs of life.

consistent learning through all grade levels?

Adversity Builds Character.

We believe the foundations we provide for children should encourage children to love

“It takes too much time,” or “This age cannot

to learn and prepare them for the next year.

understand that concept,” and “They should

I have been attending planning meetings in

just be happy” are excuses from adults.

which grade level teachers discuss weekly

Yet children can and do thrive in problem-

plans. Mercy, it is difficult work. They

solving. They need support, sometimes.

emphasize foundations while preparing them

They want encouragement, always. But,

for the next scaffold. The proof students

rarely do they need rescue. When they

own the learning must be demonstrated.

feel successful because of their efforts,

Teachers spend most of their time defining

they happily return for more, and here they

students’ success. “How do they manipulate

remind me, “Mrs. Murphy, make it a

the new information to demonstrate new

great day!”

schema?” I hear people say, “They need to

8

• Argyle Insights • Spring 2020

high standards we expect from children.

A consistent conversation for educators

fail until they succeed. I wonder how much

When adults save children from struggle:

increased motivation to participate in the

Mandi Murphy Hilltop Principal

updates f rom H illto p photos courtesy of Adrienne Austin

School Assembly

Spring 2020 • Argyle Insights •

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YL

E

HI

CH

ARG

OIR

We are so proud of all our students who

GH SCH

OO

L

auditioned for All-State and we are cheering on our five representatives who will be performing a concert on Saturday, February 15th under the direction of world-renown conductor, Dr. Ken Fulton, Professor Emeritus from Louisiana State University.

Argyle High School Choir has many upcoming performances that we would love for you to be a part of! Some of these performances include: • Date Night Cabaret - Saturday, February 29th at Argyle UMC • UIL Concert & Sight-Reading - Tuesday, March 24th at Decatur HS • Remedy Spring Show - Tuesday, April 21st at Argyle HS • Spring Voice Recital - Sunday, May 3rd

CHOIR HAS GREAT START TO 2020

to Mr. King and his wife. They spent their

A

celebrate because five of our talented

rgyle High School Choir has had an amazing start to the decade! With 84

students enrolled, our largest number in history, Concert Choir, Bella Voce, and Remedy are ready to take on the new year with energy, excitement, and excellence! If you want to relive our 2019 Winter Concert, make sure to head on over to our

or Youtube channel to catch the highlights to an amazing night of music. Thank you to everyone who came out to support us, including all of the Argyle ISD teachers and staff. We want to send a special thanks • Argyle Insights • Spring 2020

Argyle HS Choir also has reason to singers were selected to the TMEA Small School All-State Choir and are headed to San Antonio where they will rehearse

We are so proud of all our students

Instagram, Facebook page,

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wedding anniversary at our concert!

and perform alongside the top high school musicians from all across the state of Texas. Aimee Gray, Austin Rusk, Ethan VanDerwerken, Kassidy Rosengren, and Levi Pabst represent the largest number of singers Argyle

HS Choir has ever had selected for the All-State Choir in one year. This is also Kassidy’s second year in a row that she has been selected for this prestigious honor.

at Argyle HS • Argyle HS Choir Spring Concert Monday, May 11th at Argyle HS Every performance is free of charge with the exception of our Date Night Cabaret.

This is our first annual Date Night event, and tickets can be purchased online at www. argylechoir.com/boosterclub. Tickets are $50 and include a three-course Italian dinner for two, service provided by HS Choir students, and an hour and a half of musical entertainment featuring some of the greatest love songs of all time! If you have any questions, please contact Mr. Will Griswold at wgriswold@argyleisd.com.

Thank you for your unwavering support of Fine Arts in Argyle ISD, and we hope everyone continues to have an incredible school year!

Remedy A Cappella

We want to thank everyone who donated

T

our album! We know that your resources

to our Living Tree campaign. Because of your generosity, we were able to fully fund

he 2010s came to a close and Remedy is ready for an amazing new year to

begin! Throughout the holidays Remedy had the pleasure of performing in the Argyle area including performances at the Harvest Tree Lighting, Briarwyck Holiday Festival, Breakfast in Bethlehem at Argyle UMC, and the Argyle Choir Winter Concert! These events were wonderful and put everyone in the perfect holiday mood! If you are interested in having Remedy come out to your holiday event in 2020, please contact Mr. Will Griswold at wgriswold@argyleisd.com as

are valuable and we greatly appreciate your support of Remedy A Cappella and Music Education. We cannot thank you enough!

Our second studio album Waves is set to debut on all major streaming platforms including Spotify, Apple

Remedy also just completed recording their second studio album

soon as possible. Our holiday tour calendar fills up quickly and we want to be able to perform at as many events as we can.

The new decade is off to an amazing start.

We began the year by learning two amazing arrangements and traveling to the Briarcrest A Cappella Invitational in Memphis, TN on January 31st. Briarcrest Christian School is

Music, Amazon Music, and Youtube Music mid to late May! We cannot wait to share the incredible songs that have transformed the way we think about a cappella music.

Remedy is also available for hire and would love to come and perform at one of your events this year! If you are interested in having us out to perform, please contact

Mr. Griswold at wgriswold@argyleisd.com for more information! Thank you for your supporting vocal music education in Argyle ISD. We hope to see you at one of our upcoming events and if there is ever any way our Choir Program can serve you, please reach out and let us know!

the home of the award winning a cappella group OneVoice, who has been featured on America’s Got Talent and at the Grammy Awards. Remedy proudly represented Argyle ISD and the state of Texas at this prestigious event. We received great feedback and we have already applied it towards our next performance, the Remedy A Cappella Spring Show, which you can see on Tuesday, April 21st at Argyle High School.

Some of our upcoming performances include: • Remedy A Cappella Spring Show - April 21st @ Argyle High School • AHS Choir Spring Concert - May 11th @ Argyle High School Remedy also just completed recording their second studio album with the help of Mel Daneke and Viridian Productions!

Spring 2020 • Argyle Insights •

11

W

e would like to say thank you to everyone who

Argyle Comes Together\

participated in the Argyle ISD Thanksgiving Food

Drive and those who adopted an Angel. We were able to feed over 50 families in our district and provide toys, clothing, and shoes for over 30 children in our district for Christmas. It was amazing to see so many people come together and help for both events. Check out the group photo of our volunteers on the day of sorting for the Thanksgiving food drive.

We would also like to thank the Argyle Police Department.

They went above and beyond in donating meals, adopting Angels, and personally volunteering on the day of distribution for the Angel Tree Project. We appreciate everything they did.

t o H elp Others

Students in 8th grade at Argyle Middle School adopted a local family in need.

Using their own funds, the students went shopping during the Christmas season.

12

• Argyle Insights • Spring 2020

Argyle W est

W elc o me from the Principal D

ear AWE Families,

As always, this semester will be a busy one

Welcome Back! I would like to take

at Argyle West. Each class will begin new

this opportunity to welcome new families

units of study with thought-provoking and

to Argyle West, and to wish everyone a

enriching concepts. We have benchmarks,

very Happy New Year! May this year bring

STAAR testing, field trips, and fun events

you and your family great happiness, peace,

planned for the end of the year. Keep an eye

prosperity, and good health. I thank you for

on the school website and calendar for dates

your support and partnership in working

and details. Please remember that students

together for your children.

The New Year is a wonderful time for families to discuss their own family values and ways of making a positive difference in the lives of others. Families are encouraged to seize the opportunity to discuss with your child about personal achievements and to set goals.

must be here to learn. Teachers

I want to thank everyone for a very successful first semester at AWE

I want to thank everyone for

do a lot of group work and hands-on activities that can’t be recreated when a student misses class. I understand when

after school, attend numerous meetings, collect data and analyze that data to help drive their instruction, teach, grade papers, meet with parents, handle discipline, counsel students when needed, are your child’s biggest cheerleader and advocate, and try to maintain a personal life. Teachers are the heroes in any school building. They are on the front lines every day trying to do what is best for every student. Rest assured, they have your child’s best interest at heart.

We look forward to continuing our partnership with you and your children and invite you to call, email, or schedule an appointment any time to meet with the teachers or me to discuss your child’s individual needs. Have a blessed New Year!

Warm Regards, Mrs. Funderburg Argyle West Principal

expect those students to come.

Please try not to schedule planned absences at the end of the nine-week period.

This makes it very difficult for

teachers to get grades turned in by the

are fortunate to have wonderful parents,

deadline while also trying to get makeup

staff members, and PTA who go above and

work from students that were gone.

us with anything requested.

students who need help, tutor before and

students are sick and don’t

a very successful first semester at AWE. We

beyond to support what we do and provide

exciting lessons, complete paperwork on

Teachers work so much harder than many people realize. They plan engaging and

Spring 2020 • Argyle Insights •

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photos courtesy of Adrienne Austin

14

• Argyle Insights • Spring 2020

A R G Y L E ANONYMOUS

A

you to make a tax-deductible contribution to aid in the success of this much-needed organization. The help that the donations provide is something that we have been proud to witness. Please remember that all of the money is used to help children and seniors right here in Argyle. No donation is too large or too small. If you would like to

rgyle Anonymous is a non-profit

other minor medical needs not covered by

organization that was founded in

Medicare or insurance or when a family is

donate your time, that would be appreciated

1990 for the purpose of helping

unable to afford comprehensive medical

as well. We would be delighted to welcome

care. The goal is to increase a child’s ability

you aboard. Please let us hear from you.

Argyle children in need. In 1999, the program expanded its vision to help the growing needs of Argyle seniors as well. The actual program is organized and run by about ten individuals who, of course, wish to remain nameless. Argyle school nurses, Rynn, Randall, Kris Wildeveld, Kathleen Fortino, Traca Maestas, and Sherrie

We need your help.

to learn and to help seniors in need live life more comfortably.

The beauty of the program is that everyone is anonymous. In the same manner that the donors and people who run the organization are

Argyle Anonymous

no reason for any child, senior, or

receiving assistance.

The types of needs that are met include

Thank you for your support, Argyle Anonymous

unidentified. Thus, there should be

organization. Children are typically referred

eye care, dental care, prescriptions, and

and anonymously.

Please send your contribution to:

family to feel embarrassed for

needs that are going unmet.

towards our vision... generously

anonymous, recipients are likewise

Thompson serve as the eyes and ears of the by one of them as they become aware of

We hope that you will join us in reaching

We need your help. Argyle Anonymous

P.O. Box 31 Argyle, Texas 76226 or by donating online at

relies entirely on donations from this

www.justgiving.com/argyleanonymousinc

once-a-year fundraiser to meet the growing

Argyle Anonymous is recognized by the

needs of the community. We are asking

IRS as a 501-C non-profit organization.

Spring 2020 • Argyle Insights •

15

Kindergarten Holiday

Musical Performance photos courtesy of Adrienne Austin

E A G L E PARTNERS

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• Argyle Insights • Spring 2020

All-District Volleyball 2019

Arygle District 8-4A

Co-MVPs: Allie Jones, Argyle; Zoe Hall, Bridgeport Co-Hitters of the Year: Mariah Hesselgesser, Argyle; Payton Lucas, Krum Setter of the Year: Kassidy Reeves, Argyle Blocker of the Year: Reese Robinson, Krum Libero of the Year: Jada Price, Argyle Server of the Year: Trinity Vinzant, Decatur Newcomer of the Year: Ella Payne, Argyle Coach of the Year: Megan DeGroot, Argyle

First Team Kiley Lavelle, Argyle; Jessie Moore, Argyle; Miranda Guffy, Krum; Madeline Guffy, Krum; Tori Hamilton, Krum; Madison Lowery, Decatur; Jentry Lamirand, Decatur; Tayte Helton, Decatur; Tiffany Wootton, Bridgeport; Riley Druxman, Springtown

Second Team Andie Piel, Argyle; Ava Curran, Argyle; Sydney Martin, Krum; Paige Orsi, Krum; Makenna Gantt, Decatur; Bayli Miller, Decatur; Kota Hartman, Decatur; Kaylee Peterson, Decatur; Anna Strother, Bridgeport; Haley Barton, Bridgeport; Carli Haugen, Springtown; Rayleigh Farris, Springtown

Spring 2020 • Argyle Insights •

17

A M essage F r o m A M S P rincipal

Mr. Gibson I

t is difficult to believe we are already in the spring semester and in a new decade.

From here, we begin to find someone who

person or a couple of people to consider, the

we think might be a good match. Because I

next part is to check references. These might

The year is really moving quickly, and we

have been in the area for 23 years, there is a

be people they have marked or others that

continue to see growth in our student

good chance I may have mutual contact with

were supervisors who may not be put down

population. Due to this growth, each campus

the applicant and find information out before

as references but have knowledge of the

will be adding new positions.

making an appearance for an interview.

person’s work.

The middle school, pending board approval

I will usually interview between three and

at the January board meeting, will add four positions due to this increase in student population. The addition of these positions often brings the question, “what do you look for in a middle school teacher?”

To answer that question can be very complicated or

I try to find someone who loves kids

shortened to a very simplistic answer. The long version takes into account many different factors. When looking at applicants, I am able to narrow choices down by looking at several things within the application. Does the resume look like time and effort was done in seeking a position?

Does the applicant have the required certification to teach the class? What is the

six applicants depending on

the individual on the phone and offer the

the field and the level

position. This is one of the most parts of

of applicants.

the job...being able to hear the excitement

The interview: Is the

realize the reality of joining our team at

dressed appropriately? Some

AMS. There are a few more procedural

interviews I have given

things to do with recommending the hire

them a personality test that

to the superintendent and school board by

is completed very quickly

submitting the recommendation letter to

before coming in. Over the

our Human Resource office. This is the long

years, it is very interesting how different subject teachers score differently. Math teachers would tend to be one direction and ELA teachers a different way. Once back in my office, I will ask the applicant several questions regarding student

school teacher.

The short version is that I try to find someone who loves kids and is knowledgeable of the subject matter.

Have a great 2020!

I am looking for how this person would fit

“red flags” like moving from school to school

would be teamed together.

and not staying anywhere very long? Did

At the conclusion of the interview, I give the

the applicant pass the background check

applicant an opportunity to ask me

that Human Resources accesses? Is the

any questions.

I always go home and sleep on the

glaring errors that would help weed the

developments from that day. Only in special

field like referring to me as Principle Gibson

circumstances where time was of the

rather than Principal Gibson. This makes a

essence have I ever offered a position on the

good start.

day of the interview. After I have selected a

• Argyle Insights • Spring 2020

version on how I find a middle

relationships and the subject being taught. with our students and with the teachers who

18

in the voice of the new teacher when they

applicant on time and

applicant’s GPA? Does the applicant have

cover letter written well? Are there other

Once I determine the best applicant, I call

Scott Gibson - Principal Argyle Middle School 940.246.2126 Ext. 3002

Spring 2020 • Argyle Insights •

19

M

rs. Jessica Reynolds was the lead director for Thoroughly Modern Mille.

Thoroughly Modern Millie is set in the roaring 20s in New York City. A feisty young

Mrs. Melissa Toomer was also very involved in the direction.

The production had 57 students in the cast and crew.

When asked what she loved most about the production, Mrs. Reynolds’ response was the style. She said she loves the style of the 20s and that it was so much fun to recreate

flapper named Millie plans to

This was a fun musical production filled with color, excitement, and great choreography

that world.

Each year, the AHS Theatre Department

find a job and marry a wealthy employer. Though fond of penniless paper-clip salesman Jimmy, she’s determined to marry well-heeled company man, Trevor Graydon, who is fond of Millie’s roommate, Dorothy Brown. As all four try to find love, evil landlady,

Mrs. Meers, schemes to sell the orphaned

puts on one musical, one UIL One-Act Play, a

Dorothy into white slavery. This was a

murder mystery, and a few showcases. They

fun musical production filled with color,

stay busy preparing for each production.

excitement, and great choreography.

20

• Argyle Insights • Spring 2020

Argyle West

Harmony

Choir Photos and information courtesy of Megan Lamb

A

rgyle West Harmony Choir had its inaugural performance at AWE Cafeto-

rium on December 17th. Congratulations on a wonderful performance!

Carmen Oliver Author

V isits H illt o p elementary Info by - Mrs. Brittney Tubbs, Photos by - Mrs. Adrienne Austin

C

hildren’s book author, Carmen Oliver, presented to students

at Hilltop Elementary. Her presentation titled, “Dream Big,” inspired students to never give up and to remember that anything is possible when you are a reader. In her presentation, she shared how her

Buddies, was turned down by more than 10

anything is possible when you are a reader

popular book, Bears Make the Best Reading

publishers. But she kept trying and considers that book to be like the train in one of her favorite childhood books, The Little Engine that Could. Mrs. Oliver has written more books in the bears series, including Bears Make the Best Math Buddies and

Bears Make the Best Writing Buddies. photo courtesy of Carmenoliver.com, Capstone Young Readers, Carmen Oliver.

Spring 2020 • Argyle Insights •

21

D IS T R I C T M V P Z o e Zabl o sky

T

he Argyle Tennis team’s season ended in the regional finals after losing to a very competitive Wills Point Team. Compiling

a record of 20-4, the Eagles finished strong in district with 12 of our 16 players earning All-District honors. Congratulations to the team on a successful season, and good luck this spring.

22

• Argyle Insights • Spring 2020

Newcomer of the Year C layt o n A rnett

ar i a n a s adler

b ra n do n dodd

carl i n clar k

C lay to n A r n ett

1 st team mixed d o ubles

2 nd team doubles

1 st team singles

1 st team singles

1 st team d o ubles

2 nd team d oubles

E la i n a H i ld n er

G race F i fe

1 st team d o ubles

1 st team singles

2 nd team S ingles

1 st team d o ubles

1 st team mixed d o ubles

N i k k i Z a b lo s k y

R a i n a Schm i ed

Wade Paq u i n

2nd team d o ubles

2 nd team D o ubles

mar k m i relez 1 st team singles

1 st team d o ubles 2 nd T eam S ingles

N i c k loveday 1st team doubles

Z oe Z a b lo s k y 1 st team singles 1 st team doubles Photos courtesy of Tobi Jordan

Spring 2020 • Argyle Insights •

23

HIlltop 3rd Grade

Toydrive Photos and information courtesy of Tamara Akers and Adrienne Austin

M

rs. Akers’ and Ms. Doak’s 3rd grade classes at Hilltop conducted a Toy Drive in December. The students

implemented a well-thought out project where they advertised and organized a school-wide toy drive. We were able to collect and then deliver almost 300 toys to the Salvation Army of Denton County. This organization helped over 600 families and over 1,700 children in Denton County this holiday season. They were so thankful and in awe of all the toys we delivered!

24

• Argyle Insights • Spring 2020

C O N G R AT U L AT I O N S Huge shout out to Argyle Band for also having five students selected to the All-State Band and seven students selected as alternates! Mr. Bird, Mr. Burk, and Mr. Lemish continue to push our Choir program to achieve more and more each year. Thanks for setting such a high standard of success!

P

lease congratulate our 2020 All-State

All-State Alternates - Alex Govea,

Choir Musicians! Almost 3,000 students

Wade Paquin.

from around the state began the Small School Choir Audition process, and only 112 were selected to represent their schools at the 2020 TMEA All-State Convention this month in San Antonio, Texas!

Not only is this the most students that our Choir program has ever had selected in one year, but we are also tied for the most students of any school in the North Area of Texas to be selected to the Small School

All-State Musicians - Aimee Gray, Austin

All-State Choir! We braved the snow, and it

Rusk, Ethan VanDerwerken, Levi Pabst,

was absolutely worth it!

Kassidy Rosengren (this is her 2nd year in a row).

Thank you to everyone who is supporting these incredible students and our program.

Spring 2020 • Argyle Insights •

25

NEW

by Br o

oke E zzo

Argyle Welcomes

O

to Sergeant, supervising the communications and 911 divisions. Once promoted to Lieutenant, he was a patrol watch commander, commander of the Love Field Airport, SWAT commander, and finally the commander of the day shift in the Dallas city core.

In August 2017, Jackson took the role of Police Chief in Keene, Texas. Keene is a city of roughly 6,200 residents. Jackson said the pace and scale of crime issues were drastically different from Dallas.

n January 3, Argyle Town Hall

Carolla spoke about having the pleasure of

buzzed with excitement as new

watching Jackson grow in his

Chief of Police, Emmitt Jackson,

police leadership.

Jackson’s leadership and law

was sworn in by Mayor Donald Moser.

In attendance for Jackson’s swearing in and welcoming party were fellow officers and administration with Argyle PD, family

enforcement resume made him the ideal candidate.

“I began my policing career at the Dallas Police

and friends, Keene PD officers, Mayor

Department in 2002,” Jackson

Moser, and Lake Dallas Police Chief,

said. “I worked as a patrol

Daniel Carolla.

Carolla, a long-time friend and colleague, introduced Jackson and told the crowd stories of their time together in the force.

officer until being promoted to Senior Corporal and worked as an undercover

“While there, I shifted the culture of the police department from one that was highly

I look forward to meeting and hearing from our residents.

narcotics detective.”

From there, Jackson moved up the ranks

revenue focused toward one that is more community focused,” Jackson said.

“We were able to substantially improve the department’s level of transparency, engagement, and public trust.”

A community focused police agency is Jackson’s top priority as Argyle’s Chief of Police.

“Officers should, each day as they patrol, look for

ways to deliver value to citizens,” Jackson said. “A truly community focused agency

pictured is Chief Jackson, wife Lera, and their children

understands that enforcing the law is only part of what we do.”

Community focused means officers will pro-actively engage with people and ask questions about what issue citizens are observing. This could be a traffic problem in a particular location, a suspicious vehicle, or knowing that the employees from a business walk to their car at closing time.

“Officers need to know their community problems,” Jackson said.

Jackson said this is one of the things that attracted him to Argyle.

“The opportunity to bring my varied experiences to a department that was already highly regarded by its community, while bringing my family back to the area

26

• Argyle Insights • Spring 2020

photos courtesy of Brooke Ezzo

and make themselves available to solve

Gingerbread H o u se C o mpetiti o n A I S L ibrary

A

rgyle Intermediate School Library loved seeing the creativity of their fourth and fifth graders! A special thank you to all of this year’s participants for making their first Gingerbread House Contest a success!

Chief Jackson being sworn in by Mayor Moser

where I grew up, was a chance I jumped at,” Jackson exclaimed.

Jackson grew up in Denton and obtained his Bachelor’s Degree in Criminal Justice from the University of North Texas.

Jackson spoke of his long-time dream of becoming Chief of Police for the Town of Argyle. He ended his speech by thanking the Mayor for choosing him.

“I know it’s never easy to choose somebody,” Jackson said to Mayor Moser.

“I will do everything in my power to make you understand that you made the right choice.”

Jackson raised his right hand and repeated after Mayor Moser. Applause erupted as Emmitt Jackson officially became the Town of Argyle’s Chief of Police. With great respect, Jackson’s wife, Lera, stood up to do the honorary badge pinning.

“I am beyond excited to begin the work of taking the Argyle Police Department to the next level,” Jackson said. “I look forward to meeting and hearing from our residents so that we can work together to tackle problems.”

As the swearing in came to an end, he reiterated his excitement about coming home to Argyle — ending the night with, “dreams really do come true.”

Spring 2020 • Argyle Insights •

27

STEM Night with the

Perot Museum

S

TEM night was a huge success. Thank you to the AWE PTA, CoServ and the Perot Museum for a fabulous night!

28

• Argyle Insights • Spring 2020

Argyle

Football

District 7-4A

All-District TEAM 2019 MVP: Bo Hogeboom, Argyle Offensive Player of the Year: Brendon Lewis, Melissa Defensive Player of the Year: Logan Engle, Celina Offensive Newcomer of the Year: Sheridan Wilson, Argyle Defensive Newcomer of the Year: Damon Youngblood, Melissa Offensive Lineman of the Year: Micah Hiter, Argyle Defensive Lineman of the Year: Tate Van Poppel, Argyle Utility Player of the Year: Cade Merka, Argyle Coaching Staff of the Year: Argyle

First Team Hunter Watson, Celina; Do’rian Williams, Paris; Logan Point, Celina; Tito Byce, Argyle; Cole Kirkpatrick, Argyle; Alex Gonzales, Argyle; DJ Dell’Anno, Celina; Chase Mapps, Melissa; Tyler Burton, Melissa; Jasper Lott, Argyle; Blake Spence, Argyle; Caden Reeves, Argyle; Bryson Zufelt, Melissa; Jack Tucker, Argyle; Tyler Bidelman, Celina; Blake Carrico, Melissa; Blake Sullivan, Argyle; Quintarious Dangerfield, Paris; Kattravion McCarty, Paris; Braiden Rexroat, Argyle; Lain Atwood, Paris; Davis Elsey, Argyle; Caden Hayes, Melissa; Riley Hartman, Argyle; Jalen Gray, Paris; Reese Bedford, Celina; Jameon Mitchell, Paris; Jake Sullivan, Argyle; Abner Dubar, Anna; Will Ramsey, Argyle; Trent Espinosa, Celina; Caden Dodson, Argyle; Brian Ramirez, Paris; Tallyn Melborn, Sanger.

Second Team Rylan Smart, Sanger, Xylohn Posey, Melissa; Isaiah Martinez, Celina; Luke Farris, Argyle; Zach Shepard, Sanger; Dorien Allen, Anna; Luke Addy, Celina; Ezra Monroe, Melissa; Antonio Robinson, Melissa; Brady Cunningham, Celina; Dawson Younker, Celina; Lukas Self, Celina; Garrett Bowen, Melissa; Michael Reemts, Celina; Hayden Nofziger, Melissa; Ashton Milton, Paris; Logan Walker, Celina; Caleb Kroese, Melissa; Cullen Davee, Argyle; Wyatt Stephens, Celina; Ethan McCollum, Melissa; Carson Stamper, Sanger; John Mark Box, Anna; Tyler Merchant, Celina; Parker Jack, Melissa; Dykalen Douglas, Paris; Braylon Brown, Melissa; Ja’Bray Young, Melissa; Carlos Branch, Melissa; Micaiah Ross, Anna; Caleb Murdock, Argyle; Zachary Roberts, Celina; Bubba Gray, Paris; Zach Stewart, Argyle; Caden Knowles, Celina; Isaiah Martinez, Celina; David Patrick, Melissa.

Spring 2020 • Argyle Insights •

29

OL

CHO S H HIG

tes a d p U

ATSSB All-State Band Students Thousands of students across the state of Texas Audition for one of these spots and less than 1% will make the All-State ensemble. The students will represent Argyle ISD and North Texas at the All-State Clinic and Concert in San Antonio, February 11th-15th. Please congratulate the following members on their success.

Micah Splain, Zach Tait, Karter Hennigan, Trinity Flaten, and Preston Rushford

ATSSB Region 2 All-Region Band The Argyle High School Band has 46 students who auditioned, made, and performed in the ATSSB Region 2 Band. Argyle represented a third of the band. These students are the

Argyle High School Winter Guard The Argyle High School Winter Color

best high school musicians across the Northern DFW area. Collegiate directors from around

Guard is currently competing in the North

the State of Texas worked with these students in January to prepare a concert on January

Texas Color Guard Association Circuit. They

17th. It was a special clinic and concert for these students.

had their first competition on February

Of the 46 musicians that made the All-Region Band, 29 of them advanced to the

1st and will have several competitions throughout the spring.

area round.

Upcoming High School Band Events February 20th

March 14th

March 31st and April 1st

High School Band Ensemble Recital

North Texas Color Guard Association

UIL Concert and Sight-reading Contest

- Argyle HS Auditorium

Championships

- Argyle High School

February 27th and 28th

- Marcus HS

North Texas Color Guard Association Contest - TBA

30

• Argyle Insights • Spring 2020

Argyleiate med Inter School

E T A UPD W

e have a busy spring semester

learning about matter, energy, and the

coming up at AIS! Students are

properties of light. When we make learning

working hard to be the very best they can

fun, students are more willing to participate,

be. We started a popcorn wall showing

take risks, and remember the material. Our

students of good character “popping up”

STEM class and club bring the fun to class

everywhere. Students and staff can write

each week while they learn programming

a shout out to any AIS family member

and even get to build their own arcade

describing how that person exhibited one

game! The fifth graders will enhance their

of the 11 good character traits as outlined by the TEA Counseling Program. Numerous shout outs are read over announcements each day about our amazing and kind-hearted students. They make us proud!

We are also proud of their recent

AIS has been certified as a Heart Safe School

academic achievements. Our 4th and 5th-grade UIL teams competed and earned several distinctions. With the guidance of our fabulous music teacher, Mr. Neal Karpienski, the Music Memory group earned first place in the team competition with individual placings of second, third, and fourth. The fourth-grade team earned the third-place spot, with Olivia Ruiz earning first place. Mrs. Laura Boysen led our students for the Oral Reading competition. The fourth grade Oral Reading team won first, second, and fifth individual places, and the fifth-grade team won first and third places.

We are excited for round two of team competitions and to get the final results!

The Perot Museum will be making a visit to AIS to present Superhero Science. Our students will investigate the science behind the amazing powers of superheroes while 32

• Argyle Insights • Spring 2020

appreciation for music by attending a symphony performance at Bass Hall. At AIS, we are focused on growing the whole child, making memories, and providing outstanding academics.

We are also proud to announce that AIS has been certified as

a Heart Safe School by Project ADAM at Cook Children’s Heart Center. Our staff crisis team is certified in First Aid, Stop the Bleed, Sudden Cardiac Arrest, CPR, and can operate an AED machine. The safety of our staff, students, and visitors is a top priority to us, and we continue to educate ourselves on how to respond to emergency situations.

Just like our students, the staff at AIS is always learning, too!

We are looking forward to more greatness from our 4th and 5th graders this spring semester!

Dr. Dawn Jordan, Principal

MRS . HOCKING !

C

ongratulations to Mrs. Gloria Hocking,

during the 2020 iCon opening remarks

AISD PEIMS Coordinator, and Qmlativ

in February. As a Leader in Excellence

Liason. Mrs. Hocking was selected as a Skyward 2020 Leader in Excellence Award winner. Skyward received a number of outstanding nominations from district peers and Skyward staff. Mrs. Hocking’s nomination stood out because of the success she experienced while using

Mrs. Hocking and Argyle ISD are a shining example of success in education

Skyward to move and inspire

Award winner, Mrs. Hocking and Argyle ISD are a shining example of success in education.

Skyward will share the story on a local and national level to secure recognition for her achievements. Award recipients will be promoted throughout the year by Skyward through various communication efforts such as news announcements,

people with new ideas and

case studies, and media interviews.

initiatives. Mrs. Hocking will be honored

Congratulations Mrs. Hocking!

Dr. McDade

Visits STEM Class at AIS

S

tudents in STEM, taught by Mrs. Brenda Williams at AIS, worked on creating carnival games entirely out of cardboard. The students researched, worked together in groups, and handcrafted fully functioning carnival games using only cardboard. AISD School Board member, Dr. Leona McDade, visited the cardboard carnival and was able to talk with the students about their projects.

Spring 2020 • Argyle Insights •

33

JANUARY

SCHOOL

BOARD

RECOGNITION

J

anuary was School Board Recognition Month! We want

to thank all of our School Board members for their commitment to our district. We appreciate all they do. From L to R - Top -

Mr. Sam Slaton - President, Dr. John Bitter - Vice President, Mr. Craig Hawkesworth - Secretary.

Bottom - Mr. Brad Lowry, Mr. Jeff Williams, Dr. Leona McDade, Mr. Ritchie Deffenbaugh.

34

• Argyle Insights • Spring 2020

Spring 2020 • Argyle Insights •

35

HIGH SCHOOL

SPORTS Schedules

VARSITY BASEBALL DATE OPPONENT

SITE

TIME

FEB 27-29

Princeton Varsity Tournament

Princeton

TBA

MAR 5-7

Collin County Varsity Tournament

TBA

TBA

Melissa

TBA

MAR 12-14 Melissa Varsity Tournament

36

• Argyle Insights • Spring 2020

MAR 17

TBA

MAR 21

Celina

Argyle

2:00

MAR 24

Benbrook

Benbrook

7:00

MAR 28

Crandall

Argyle

2:00

APR 3

Decatur

Decatur

7:30

APR 7

Bridgeport

Bridgeport

7:30

APR 9

Springtown

Argyle

7:30

APR 14

Krum

Krum

7:30

APR 18

Denton Guyer

Argyle

11:00

APR 21

Decatur

Argyle

7:30

APR 24

Bridgeport

Argyle

7:30

APR 25

Hillcrest

Argyle

2:00

APR 28

Springtown

Springtown

7:30

MAY 1

Krum

Argyle

7:30

SOFTBALL

TRACK & FIELD

DATE OPPONENT

SITE

JV VARSITY

FEB 25

Lake Dallas

Lake Dallas

5:00

FEB 27-29

Brewer Varsity Tournament

White Settlement

TBA

MAR 2

Lindsay

Lindsay

6:45

5:00

MAR 5-7

Alvord Tournament

Alvord

TBA

MAR 9

OPEN

MAR 12-14 San Marcos Tournament

San Marcos

TBA

MAR 18

Bishop Lynch

Home

5:00

MAR 20

Brownwood

Home

4:30

6:30

MAR 21

Henrietta

Away

12:00

2:00

MAR 24

Springtown

Springtown

5:00

6:45

MAR 27

Krum

Home

5:00

6:45

MAR 30

Iowa Park

Bowie

6:45

APR 3

Decatur

Decatur

5:00

6:45

APR 4

Benbrook

Benbrook

10:00

12:00

APR 7

Bridgeport

Bridgeport

5:00

6:45

APR 9

Springtown (Teacher Appreciation) Home

5:00

6:45

APR 15

Krum

Krum

5:00

6:45

APR 17

Trinity

Trinity

4:30

6:00

APR 18

Nolan Catholic

Home

1:00

2:30

APR 21

Decatur (Youth Night)

Home

5:00

6:45

APR 24

Bridgeport (Senior Night)

Home

5:00

6:45

FEB 29 Castleberry Lion Relays, Castleberry High School MAR 5 Sanger Indian Invitational, Sanger High School MAR 14 Southlake Distance Festival (Qualifying Times Only) MAR 19 Argyle Invitational, Argyle High School MAR 26 Decatur Fit-N-Wise Invitational, Decatur High School MAR 27-28 Jesuit-Sheaner Relays, (Qualifying Times & Invites Only) MAR 27-28 Texas Relays, (Qualifiers Only, Days Vary by Event) APR 1-2 District 08 Track Meet, Porcupine Stadium Springtown APR 15 Area 07/08 Track Meet, Mineral Wells APR 24-25 Region I Track Meet, Lubbock ISD Sports Complex MAY 8-9 UIL 4A State Track Meet, University of Texas at Austin

VARSITY TENNIS DATE TOURNAMENT

LOCATION

FEB 28

Wills Point Invitational

Wills Point HS

MAR 6

Melissa Invitational

Melissa

MAR 20

Eaton Invitational

Eaton HS

MAR 27-28 Sharon Wartes Eagle Invitational

Abilene HS

MAR 30-31 District Tennis Tournament

Argyle HS

APR 29-30 Region II-4A Tennis Tournament

McLeod Tennis Center - Lubbock

MAY 21-22 4A State Tennis Tournament

Mitchell Tennis Center - College Station

More sport Schedules are available at argyleisd.com

Spring 2020 • Argyle Insights •

37

Argyle Special Olympics

Info provided by: Mrs. Jennifer Pakebusch and Coach Blake Dunham

Pictured Above: Bottom Row (left to right): Judge Bethel (black shirt), Isabella Mayo, Trey Sullivan, Bo Page, Anna Neuschaefer, Samantha Muffie, Jose Arriaga 2nd Row: Assistant Amy Cruson (grey shirt), Benjamin Kooiman, Martin Palafox, Wyatt Childs, Gunner St Romain, Liam Haynes, Lathan Parker 3rd Row: Assistant Ruth Jones (grey vest, black sleeves), Callie Darnell, Assistant Coach Paige Pakebusch, Assistant Coach Isabelle Wolfe, Dondi Hernandez, Assistant Alicia Nunez, EJ Espinoza, Coach Jennifer Pakebusch, Pedro Perez, Avary Sanchez, Kori Parker, Assistant Coach Savannah Pakebusch, Assistant Coach Michelle Heyns Back: Coach Blake Dunham, Assistant Theresa Lacastro 38

• Argyle Insights • Spring 2020

A

rgyle is proud of its Special Olympics

loves most about coaching, Mrs. Pakebusch

Team. The team was established in

said that she loves her athletes.

2014 and is currently under the direction

“People tell me all the time that it is so

of Mrs. Jennifer Pakebusch. Mrs. Pakebusch

awesome that I volunteer with Special

took over the positions of Head of

Olympics, or they will say how much they

Delegation and Head Coach just this year.

appreciate me doing it. Honestly, I always

The delegation founder was Mrs. Denise

feel embarrassed and even a little guilty

Yeatts - Klinke. Mrs. Pakebusch works as

when I hear these things because it feels like

an Aide in the STEP, School Transitional

I’m getting undue credit. My athletes have

Environment Program, at Argyle Middle

given me so much more than I could ever

School and has been a Special Olympics

give them.”

Volunteer since the team started in 2014.

The Argyle Special Olympics Team consists

Mrs. Pakbusch sees her kids as true champions, and like any great athletes they

of 12 middle school students, four high

get angry, mess up, but get up and work

school students, and two older athletes who

hard and they always try their hardest. Mrs.

compete with the high school team. The

Pakebusch says that her students are a

Argyle Special Olympics Athletes compete

neverending source of inspiration and have

in bowling, basketball, and track. Next year they are looking at adding flag football, cheerleading, and/or soccer.

The Special Olympics Athletes learn so much by being involved in the Argyle Special Olympics program.

The athletes love the sports they play, and being engaged in the practices and games

taught her that everyone has

Win or lose, I want them to go home knowing they are true champions

allows them to forget their

something to offer the world.

Each year, many volunteers help with the team.

The AMS Challenge Day Club helps, along with members of The Young Men’s Service League, Argyle Chapter. There are around 8-9 student volunteers from Argyle High School that are the core, consistent

differences and just do what they enjoy.

volunteers. Coach Blake Dunham, a Special

The students learn how to work hard,

Education Teacher at AHS and an Assistant

improve their social skills, gain courage, and

Football and soccer coach, has some of the

learn teamwork.

athletes in his class. He has five student-

Mrs. Pakebusch stated that not only are

athletes who participate in Special Olympics

the students learning all of these skills,

and many other extracurricular activities

but she feels like the most important thing

such as; bowling, horse riding, basketball,

she can teach her athletes is that being a

athletic training, swimming, track,

champion doesn’t mean they will get a gold

and football.

medal every time they compete. Being a

His student athletes play because they

true champion means coming in last place or

have fun and like to compete. Coach

missing the basket and trying again.

Dunham stated that sports give his

“We are in basketball season now, so

students a chance to work hard, try their

my current favorite words of wisdom are

best, push themselves, and celebrate

– any athlete can shoot a basket but only

over improvements and/or victories. “I

a champion will try again the ball doesn’t

encourage all of my students to work,

go in. Win or lose, I want them to go home

compete, or be a part of an extracurricular

knowing they are true champions, not only

activity. In addition to school, I want them

because they won but because they tried

to have something that they can look

their absolute best.” When asked what she

forward to and be proud of.

Spring 2020 • Argyle Insights •

39

Majestics DRILL TEAM

D

irector Haley Martinez debuted Argyle’s

routines, taking masterclasses from some of

First Drill team in 2017 with 11 team

the top teachers in the dance industry, and

members. Since then, she has seen not

competing against many high caliber teams.

only her team size double but

Bringing home many awards

the talent grow every year.

such as platinum sweepstakes,

From Friday night football to dancing under the stage lights, these girls can do it all. They continue to push themselves not only to be better dancers but to bring new excitement to the Argyle community.

The Majestics traveled to Frisco this past July to attend the Crowd Pleasers Dance Team Line Camp. While

T hese r o utines require a high level o f technical dancing , stamina , and precisi o n .

at camp, the girls had the

Most Outstanding Precision, and a Legendary Leader award.

Throughout the camp, the girls also had the chance to audition to be selected to be apart of the Kick Master Club or All-Star Dancers. These awards are given to the Top Kick Masters and Top Dancers from the entire camp. This year Senior Captain Rachel Davis and Sophomore Paige

was awarded as an All-Star Dancer for the second year. You can see the hard work your Majestics put into their performances throughout football season on the field and off all the way to May – as well as special appearances throughout the entire year.

The Majestics’ year does not end with the end of the football season but begins a transition to their own competition season that will take place from February to March.

These routines require a high level of technical dancing, stamina, and precision.

This year, your Majestics will be competing not only in Texas but will travel to California to compete against schools from all over the country. The girls are excited to be able to travel and represent Argyle throughout the state of Texas and California. Come show your support for the girls as they travel to a Regional, State, and National Champion Competition.

Save the Date: 2/22 State Competition @ Weatherford HS 3/9 National Competition in Los Angeles, California

opportunity to prepare for their football

Nicholson were awarded to the Kick Master

5/1-5/2 Spring Show Performances

season by learning football routines, pep rally

Club, and Senior Lieutenant Amelia Williams

AHS Auditorium

40

• Argyle Insights • Spring 2020

AHS Principal Update

Mr. John King

Semi-Formal was February 1st in the high school auxiliary gym from 8:00 p.m. to 11:00 p.m. During the week of February 10-14, we had an “Anti-Vaping” campaign at the school.

We brought in speakers to talk with our students about the dangers of vaping, and also had speakers coming in On February

H

appy New Year and welcome to the spring semester of the 2019-20 school

In our athletic arenas, both the boys’ and girls’ basketball teams are ranked in the

year! It seems like the spring is always our

Top 10 in Class 4A and are having fantastic

busiest time of the year, and this year is no

seasons. District play is underway, and we

different. I would like to take this opportu-

encourage you to come out and support

nity to highlight a few of our most recent

these players and coaches. Along those

accomplishments and summarize our events.

lines, wrestling, soccer, tennis, track, and golf

13th at 6:30 p.m. to visit with our parents about these same dangers. Finally, we have been celebrating “Black History Month” in February as we focus on the contributions made by Black Americans to the history of our country.

We hope to see you at some of our spring events, and please don’t forget to mark

The AHS Theatre Program

have all begun their seasons,

May 18th on your calendar. That is our high

had their spring musical

and they look forward to

school graduation for the Class of 2020. It

continuing the long-standing

will be here sooner than you think.

entitled, “Thoroughly Modern Millie” the weekend of January 23-26. Ms. Toomer, Ms. Reynolds, and the entire cast have been working very hard since last summer, and it certainly showed. Also in the fine arts department, AHS had five All-State Choir members and two All-State Alternates (the most in

We hope to see you at some of our spring events

school history), while the AHS band had five All-State Members and seven All-State

tradition of excellence that was set long ago. Our UIL Cheerleading Squad recently competed at the Grapevine Invitational Meet and took home the “Grand Championship” award. This group of young ladies will now represent Argyle at the state meet in Fort Worth. Good

luck to our cheer squad.

February was filled with several activities

Alternates. We are so proud of all of our fine

at our high school that parents made sure

Mr. John King -Principal

arts programs, coaches, and participants!

to put on their calendars. Our Winter

Argyle High School

Spring 2020 • Argyle Insights •

41

C

allie Darnell is like most children and loves playing with friends and

enjoying her favorite hobbies. When you see Callie she always has a big smile on

Information provided by: Mrs. Darnell Photos by: Mr. Chris Sayler

her face. Callie’s childhood however; was much different than most. Callie is eighteen years old and was diagnosed with Tuberous Sclerosis at birth. Tuberous Sclerosis is a very rare disease that causes tumor growth in her brain, kidneys and lungs. In order for Callie to maintain her best quality of life, she has to see twelve specialists and multiple doctors. Many of her doctors visits require her to travel out of the country. One of Callie’s doctors decided it would be nice for Callie and her family to experience a week of relaxation and take a break from doctors and hospitals for a while. So, they nominated her to be a Wish recipient through the Make a Wish Organization.

Thanks to the Make a Wish Organization of North Texas, Callie’s dream of going to Disney World came true. Callie and her family were granted the wish of spending a week at Disney World. Mrs. Darnell said that their family was very humbled and grateful that the Make a Wish Organization granted Callie her wish. Her mother went on to say that Callie would have never made it a week at Disney World without the special accommodations that were in place for her.

The trip allowed Callie’s family to also meet several other families from the North Texas area that they continue to stay in touch with. Callie was treated like royalty at Give Kids the World Village where she could eat ice cream for breakfast, lunch and dinner.

Callie’s favorite part about Disney World was Toy Story Land at Hollywood Studios where she was able to meet her favorite character, Woody. Specifically, Callie loved riding the Slinky Dog Dash roller coaster.

Callie’s family feels blessed to have her in their lives.

To learn more about Tuberous Sclerosis visit - www.tsalliance.org.

42

• Argyle Insights • Spring 2020

Elves

at Argyle Intermediate

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43

Life Skills

A T A R G Y L E H I G H S C H OO L

by Jaclyn Harris

T

he life skills class at Argyle High

The curriculum the program uses is called

“Some years, we’re able to do more

School is designed to offer students

the Unique Learning System Curriculum.

activities than others,” physical education

with special needs opportunities to learn

It is a picture-base system that combines

instructor Ricky Griffin said. “We basically

the skills needed to function in daily life.

words with symbols to assist students with

just want to take this hour of the day to

Communication, community involvement,

reading and comprehension. The class also

and basic life skills are all emphasized as part

uses community-based instruction to enrich

of the curriculum.

students’ learning experiences.

“Life skills is for students with severe challenges or disabilities, so we’re really working on functional living,” life skills teacher Michelle Heyns said. “We do academics but lots of it is functional academics.”

Heyns has been a part of the life skills team for the past five years, and during that time the class has evolved to emphasize a number of different core elements based on

“We do a lot of community-based instruction, because you really learn by doing and having real-life experiences,” Heyns said.

“I like to think of it like ‘how can I help make my students more independent?’

For students in Life Skills that would mean basic skills.”

Life skills students also participate in

have them up and moving around. The opportunity to, once a day, give them some type of physical activity, just because of the health ramifications of it.”

The average day in the life of a student in this program can vary depending on the activities planned for the day.

“There are regular routines,” assistant teacher Jessica Pope said. “[The students] usually just a little bit more sensitive to

an hour-long physical education period

changes, say changes in the weather, moods,

every day.

but we just kind of have to take the day as it

the students enrolled at the time.

“There’s things I want to focus on that have changed,” Heyns said. “Some of the things I’ve done with the speech therapist I work with are called eye-gaze machines. We also use what are called speech-generated devices, which are just devices on an iPad that let you communicate.”

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• Argyle Insights • Spring 2020

Communication skills are heavily emphasized in the program

comes. There are lots of good days, we like to go out in the community weekly.”

Older students have the opportunity to learn job-related skills.

“My students can come until they are 22 years old, so some of them work on more job-related skills once they finish their general education requirements,” Heyns said. “We teach them vacuuming, laundry, washing dishes, and putting dishes away.”

Communication skills are heavily emphasized in the program.

“I want [students] to be able to communicate with as many people as possible because that’s going to promote their independence,” Heynes said. “Because I work with them so much I get to know them and know what their behaviors mean, but I want them to be able to communicate to other people who don’t get to spend as much time with them.”

Similar to class for general education students, the skills taught in the life skills program will aid students for years to come.

“The general ed students come to school every day and they learn,” Pope said. “Every day these kids are also learning and it might be on a slower curve, but they are still learning. When they get things, it’s like a lightbulb goes off and it’s so fun and wonderful and magical.”

Heyns encourages general education students to spend time getting to know their life skills peers.

I think that because [the students] do have challenges, especially with communication, that it can be sometimes intimidating and it takes more time to get to know them,” Heynes said. “When you do take the time to get to know them and spend time with them everyone’s rewarded because they’re really special. They teach us a lot too.”

Spring 2020 • Argyle Insights •

45

Tower

Gardens A

rgyle Middle School received new Tower Gardens through a grant from the Argyle Education Foundation. They are

NASA technology, vertical aeroponic growing systems.

These towers are soil-free, pesticide and herbicide free, use 90% less land & water resources than traditional gardening, leave a smaller CO2 footprint, use a closed system so it recycles 100% of its nutrients & water, and yields 30% more produce at

photo courtesy of Jana Z Reed

30% faster rates!

P ROJ E CT A DA M

emergency plan to place into action in the incidence of a sudden cardiac arrest. It’s not enough simply to have AEDs in the building.

Lives are saved when schools are prepared not only with a documented plan, but also with a cardiac response team, in addition to being well trained and practiced on how to respond in the event of a cardiac emergency.

Their affiliates provide the foundation for schools to plan and develop their program, including planning templates, a reference manual and one-on-one consultation on how to help prevent sudden cardiac death in the

A

AISD Intermediate School Photo by: Chris Sayler

school setting.

Project ADAM Heart Safe School

IS Nurse, Kris Wildeveld along with a

playing basketball. Adam suffered a Sudden

designation is attained by schools upon

team of teachers and administrators at

Cardiac Arrest (SCA), in which ventricular

successful implementation of a quality

Argyle Intermediate School worked together

fibrillation occurred, a condition in which the

sudden cardiac arrest program of awareness,

to get the Project ADAM Safe School

ventricles cannot pump blood into the body.

training and effective emergency response

Designation for their campus. Project ADAM

Defibrillation, or an AED, could have saved

to promote a Heart Safe environment for

began in 1999 after the death of Adam

his life.

students, visitors and staff as outlined

Lemel, a 17-year-old Whitefish Bay, WI, high

Project ADAM affiliates strive to assist

school student who collapsed and died while

schools and communities in establishing an

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• Argyle Insights • Spring 2020

within the Heart Safe School Checklist.

Congratulations to AIS for their affiliation!