AISD Insights - Spring/Summer 2019

www.Murray-Media.com

SPRING / SUMMER 2019Â

PREPARING STUDENTS

for FUTURE

CAREERS

The Official Magazine of the Argyle Independent School District

MATH Night

at Hilltop Elementary

Spring / Summer 2019 • Argyle Insights •

3

ARGYLE

BOARD OF

TRUSTEES 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.

Sam Slaton Board President

Craig Hawkesworth Secretary

Jeff Williams Member

KNOW ARGYLE ISD

Dr. Telena Wright Superintendent

Chris Daniel Deputy Superintendent

Deana Steeber Assistant Superintendent

Elizabeth Stewart Chief Financial Officer

Mandi Murphy Hilltop Principal

Renee Funderburg Argyle Intermediate School Principal

Scott Gibson Argyle Middle School Principal

John King Argyle High School Principal

Todd Rodgers Athletic Director

Dr. John Bitter Vice President

Brad Lowry Member

Dr. Leona McDade Member

Ritchie Deffenbaugh Member

4

GET TO

• Argyle Insights • Spring / Summer 2019

Chance Westmoreland Girls Athletic Coordinator

Jason Bird AISD Band Director

Pamela Arrington PR 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

Health Science Technology

Read More About Us on Page 16

Featured on the cover is the AHS Health Science Technology students

Hilltop Elementary

Argyle High School

03

Math Night at Hilltop

12

Texas State Youth Wrestling Champion Asa Ward

08

Greetings from Mrs. Murphy

12

Volleyball Scholarships

09

Literacy Night

18

Black History Month Debate Team at CX Debate Competition Letter from Principal King

10

STEM Program

21

13

Traveling Art Museum

26

Dr. Suess Day

24

Argyle Choir Super Performance & Awards

28

Computer Science with Mr. Rashidur Rahman

31

Timothy Davis: Argyle’s Student of Many Talents

Soccer Updates

Argyle Intermediate

07

T.A.O. Club

12

Introducing Our New Principal Dr. Jordan

14

33

23

39

Google Goggles

40

Family & Consumer Sciences with Mrs. Rhonda Hill

Message from the Principal

42

Student Spotlights

44

Theatre Wrap Up

45

Argyle Majestics

46

Congrats Top 10 Seniors

Argyle Middle School

19 Message from Mr. Gibson

20

Edible Car Contest

10

Lady Eagles Win 5th Consecutive Championship

District News

Message from Dr. Telena Wright

30

2019 Retiree Spotlights

11

06

Argyle’s Olympic Equestrian Reyna Taylor

35

Transportation Update

36

Shoot 4 The Stars

Band Updates

22

27

Argyle Eagle Archery Head to Nationals

ADVERTISING Kelly Murray kelly@murray-media.com PRODUCTION Art Director Lizeth Wallace Graphic Designers Alyson Modene 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 16, 2019.

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

Published by Murray Media Group.

Opinions expressed in articles or advertisements do not necessarily reflect the opinion of the publisher or the Argyle Independent School District. AISD Insights is not responsible for omissions or information that has been misrepresented to the magazine. Advertisers and its agencies assume all liability for advertising content. No part of this publication may be reproduced or transmitted without the permission in writing from the publisher. © 2019 Murray Media Group. www.Murray-Media.com

Spring / Summer 2019 • Argyle Insights •

5

Afrom MESSAGE Dr. Telena Wright, Argyle ISD Superintendent

T

he 2018-2019 school year continues

the school, and is doubling manpower

forward at a very fast pace!

to complete it. The school is located on

Graduation is scheduled for 5 p.m. on May

Old Justin Road at the intersection of

21 at UNT with 208 students in the senior

Harvest Way. West Elementary staff will

class. Argyle High School is currently in

provide instruction for an estimated 665

first place for the Lone Star Cup, which

PK-5 elementary students. The passage

is an award given to one school in each

of the 2017 bond made building the

of the six classifications (1A, 2A, 3A, 4A,

school possible.

5A, 6A) for the highest number of points in all UIL activities including academics, athletics, and fine arts. AHS currently holds the record for the most consecutive Lone Star Cups in Texas.

The 12-classroom addition at the high school has been invaluable space for the students. This space was opened in October. This coming fall science offerings

Renee Funderburg, current Argyle Intermediate School principal, will be

The Argyle girls basketball team coached

by Chance Westmoreland won a fifth state championship in March

the principal at West, and Brady Bell, current Argyle Intermediate School assistant principal, will be the assistant principal at West. Dr. Dawn Jordan from Rockbrook Elementary in Lewisville Independent School District will be the Argyle Intermediate School

will be expanded to include forensic

Principal; Kristin Haynes will be working

science and nutrition science. Both will

as the assistant principal. The flipping

be taught in the new area. At 25 students

of the high school and middle school is

per classroom, 300 students can be

scheduled to occur in Fall 2021. Steele

accommodated per period throughout the

Freeman will be the construction company

day in the new classrooms.

for Phase II of the HS. Demographic

The fifth campus for the district has

projections show 3,472 students for

been named Argyle West Elementary

2019-20 and 3906 for 2020-21. Growth

School. The School will house students

for 2019-20 is projected at 14.7% for the

west of I-35 and includes those from

district. Templeton Demographics provides

Canyon Falls, Trailwood, Harvest, and

two updates regarding demographic

Prairie View Farms. Teachers transferred

projections each year. Trent Smith serves

from Hilltop and Argyle Intermediate will

as the demographic researcher.

serve at West, as well as new hires. Lee Lewis Construction Company is building

6

• Argyle Insights • Spring / Summer 2019

championship in March. Only two other schools in Texas have accomplished this.

The girls basketball team has now won six state championships and made eight tournament appearances.

Both girls and boys golf teams will be competing at the state golf tournament this month. UIL academic team is competing in Austin May 3-4 after winning district and region.

There is always a need for volunteers in AISD; you may be interested in PTO, PTA, band boosters, AEF, athletic boosters, special olympics, choir boosters, or another area. You are needed. Contact your campus principal or the sponsor of the organization you are interested in helping. Your vote in bond and school board elections is your voice. Plan ahead and make sure you are registered to vote before election time. Feel free to contact me with any questions you have regarding AISD.

The Argyle girls basketball team coached

by Chance Westmoreland won a fifth state

Dr. Telena Wright Argyle ISD Superintendent

Argyle Intermediate School

T.A.O. Club

T

he T.A.O. Club (Think About Others Club), in its second year of existence during the 2018-2019 school year, has been busy with quite a few projects. Our first project of the year changed quickly after flooding affected many families in south Texas in the Canyon Lake area. Our club collected a long list of supplies and delivered them to the victims. (Many of them relatives of A.I.S. staff & students).

The second project in November was a Salvation Army Clothing Drive, in which coats, shirts, pants, and undergarments were collected and donated to the Denton County Salvation Army.

In the month of December, we “adopted” 19 Christmas Tree Angels from the Salvation Army Angel Tree. This is almost double the amount of children

“adopted” in our first year. As Mr. Veit dropped the gifts off at the Toys For Tots location, he met Mrs. Nancy Pace, who has been a volunteer coordinator and advocate for Salvation Army for several decades. She attended one of our February lunch meetings and spoke to the students about the purpose and importance of giving back to our community. The children also made over 100 Christmas cards, which Mr. Veit delivered to local nursing homes just before the holidays.

In January, the T.A.O. Club members made “Thank You” cards to teachers and workers around our school who help every child get the best education possible.

The February project was to make Valentine’s Day cards for the children in

the Children’s Hospital in Ft. Worth. One of our parents and her children made the delivery for us.

In March and April, we had another donation period and collected hundreds of toothbrushes, toothpaste, deodorant, shampoo, lotion, shaving cream and razors, and lotions.

Here is a picture of just a few of the items donated from our students to the Denton County Salvation Army.

The final project of the year will be donations for the area animal shelters and possibly a canned food for the local Salvation Army.

A HUGE “Thank You” goes out to all our students, families, and teachers, who participated in these worthy causes.

Spring / Summer 2019 • Argyle Insights •

7

Greetings

FROM HILLTOP ELEMENTARY PRINCIPAL

Mrs. Mandi Murphy

A

dvocating for children I sit in

the ball rolling. We have so much work to

play and learning that interacts and

hundreds of meetings with parents,

do at that point. Anytime is a good time.

intwines. Now, communication develops.

teachers, staff, and even children.

Always start with your child’s teacher,

Parents and teachers advise children what

Sometimes children can be supported by

but an administrator’s goal is to support

to say when they disagree. If we dismiss

providing concrete, visible solutions and sometimes the communication moves to an abstract understanding of what the child needs. In the meetings, parents give us clarity about how a child responds in the comfort of his/her home. Teachers provide classroom environment data and observation. Sometimes parents see the same behavior from children at home and sometimes they wonder if they are talking about the same child. Regardless, it is the

this conversation. Regardless of what the child’s struggle is, parents and teachers must walk the very fine line between support and least restrictive opportunity.

We want to support them, but we never want to over-correct. We will work together to empower children with strategies and connections to assist them.

We will help them and you understand your child’s educational rights and develop

the importance of working it out, finding common ground, respecting taking turns, and listening, we miss the opportunity to cultivate healthy relationships. Telling children, “Don’t play with him if you can’t agree” or “Just ignore her” or “Find other friends” is not always the necessary life-long lesson.

Thank you for your continued support in

non-adversarial ways to develop a plan

this. We WANT to communicate with you!

to address your child’s needs. Parent

Let us know what your child says in the car

imperative to communicate. Sometimes,

and school relationship is built based on

or at bedtime. If they need our help, they

parents see negative behavior that we

conversation. You are a huge part of your

often will tell you first, let us know.

can’t imagine. We have to be together to

child’s success. Talk to us.

truly understand the whole child.

Recently, a couple contacted me to meet about their child. They started the meeting with, “Last year, we knew there was a problem, but we thought it would get better this year.” I had already looked for notes on their child. I had nothing. I listened to them talk about this year versus last year. The parents clearly knew the struggles their child experienced at school, However, I did not. I shared solutions and steps we could take right now and in the future, but I also stated,

It’s ok to Disagree Thank goodness for different opinions, ideas, and talents.

In my marriage, my friendships, and work relationships, I am thankful for the unique input that others make in my life. However, it can also lead to fiery conversations, right? We all have that person that we adore, but they are as strong willed as we are and they make us mentally and emotionally grow. They just see it differently. Our students begin school with side-by-side interactions with other children. As long as there are

Summer plans ENJOY this time. Yes children need to be reading and solving math problems. Find riddles, games, and hands on activities. STAY away from worksheets and workbooks. BLAH! Pick books that are engaging. Let children read books on their level and then you read aloud a classic or one that has a movie coming out. Find another family to pen pal with about the book; you can read the same book and share your connections and opinions.

Camps are a great way to stay in touch

enough toys in the sandbox, they can

with friends and try new activities. Argyle

“Come earlier.” When you felt the issue

coexist. As they get older, the abstract

High School coaches, teachers, and

continued, “come then.” Communicating

emotion and feelings become involved

leaders coordinate a list of fun activities

with us that you see an issue only starts

and they interact. They start developing

that are affordable. I highly recommend all

8

• Argyle Insights • Spring / Summer 2019

of them! You will find these on the Argyle ISD website.

LIST OF ACTIVITIES Kindergarten High Tech High Touch Program - May 2 & 3

ESL Field Trip - May 21

Lunch Heroes Day - May 3

Pre K Graduation - May 23

Story Book Dress Character Day - May 3

Kindergarten & 2nd Grade End of Year Party - May 23

Teacher Appreciation Week - May 6 - 10

Pre K, 1st & 3rd Grade End of Year Party - May 24

years ago. We will be sending updates

Field Day - May 10

Early Release Days - May 23 & 24

and plans in June and again in August.

3rd Grade STAAR Test - May 13 & 14

Your children are the world to us. Please

Last Day of School - May 24

Pre K Field Trip - May 16

EPI School Pack Deadline to Order - June 14

The future is BRIGHT and roomier.

We are looking forward to the next year.

The Hilltop staff and building have been stretched to the max the past few years; fortunately, we are thrilled to shrink a bit and return to some of the programs and plans we have been able to facilitate

be ready to join us in fun and exciting years. We want to enjoy traditions

Unplug Night - May 16

School Assembly - May 22

and also want to implement the best of experiences from our new families’ previous schools. The best way to impact quickly is to join our PTA. We are here for you. Let us know what we can do to as we continue to serve you and your children will participating in the

Mrs. Mandi Murphy Principal Hilltop Elementary

best community in Texas!

Literacy NIGHT

included were Bingo, Minute to Win It, Dr. Seuss character crafts, Fishing for Words, Hopscotch with words, Character Ring Toss, read alouds by the principals, a popcorn bar, photo booth with Cat in the Hat, a book exchange, and reading with therapy dogs.

Info provided by Mrs. Lindemann

M

rs. Lindemann has been teaching in Argyle for 14 years. She taught first grade in Argyle for 13 years and reading is her favorite thing to teach, it has always been her passion. This is her first year as the reading specialist at Hilltop Elementary. Literacy Night has become a tradition, and she wanted to continue to carry on that tradition. “It is a time for families to get together and celebrate their love of books and reading,” said Lindemann.

This year’s literacy night was a Dr. Seuss theme. Being so close to Dr. Seuss’ birthday, Mrs. Lindemann decided it would be a fun way to celebrate. The children dressed up as their favorite Dr. Seuss character for school and the celebration continued into the evening. Students participated in literacy games and activities that teachers and staff created. Argyle High School NHS students volunteered their time to help with crafts. Some of the activities Spring / Summer 2019 • Argyle Insights •

9

Program

STEM

T

Info provided by Mrs. Cameron Mouser

he STEM program at Hilltop emphasizes hands-on exploration as a way to engage students in developing 21st-century problem-solving skills and real-world application. The STEM program has three main focus areas; science, technology, engineering, and mathematics. At least two main focus areas are integrated into the projects and lesson. Through the projects, students will develop stronger literacy skills.

Mrs. Mouser, the STEM teacher at Hilltop Elementary, sees each pre-kindergarten class for one week each month. She sees the kindergarten and first-grade students every ten days and sees the second and thirdgrade students every two weeks.

All of the projects and activities in STEM are hands on. The students get to create and expand their learning through the design

process. The third grade STEM students

Lady Eagles Wins

T

5

th

Consecutive

CHAMPIONSHIP Courtesy of Coach Westmoreland

recently made Hexbug Mazes that focused on the design process. The first-grade students are currently designing sail cars and exploring aerodynamics while the students in Pre-K are learning about how gears and pulleys work.

Mrs. Mouser attended college at Tarleton State University in Stephenville, TX. What she loves most about teaching STEM is watching students creating and achieving things they never thought they could. She also enjoys giving students the freedom to think outside the box. “It's truly amazing seeing students defy the limits that they've given themselves.” “There are layers to STEM, and every child at any level can be involved!”

he 2018-19 Lady Eagle basketball

Stephenville in the regional quarterfinals.

season ended on a great note as

The key to our success was defense,

we won our 5th consecutive Class 4A

rebounding, taking high-percentage

state championship. We began the

shots, and having great team chemistry.

season with high expectations but knew

It was great to experience a state

it would be a challenge to repeat due to graduation, injuries, and moving to Region 1. This group of girls played great basketball all season and saved their best run for the playoffs. We played a challenging schedule early in the season against 6A and 5A competition but used that experience to prepare us to go undefeated in district and carry that

photo courtesy of Andrew Fritz

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• Argyle Insights • Spring / Summer 2019

championship with this team because I got to witness how hard they worked in practice and prepared for games. We weren’t picked to win a state championship, so being the underdog gave us a lot of motivation.

Our two seniors were Kennedy Reaves (Forward) and Maggie Adams (Guard).

The goal for next season will be to

momentum into the playoffs. In our

become the best team we can and play

playoff run, we defeated the top four

great basketball in district and the playoffs.

ranked teams in the state (#1 Canyon,

We have a lot of returning and young

#2 Levelland, #3 Hardin Jefferson, and

players who I know will put the work in

#4 Dallas Lincoln) in addition to #7

this summer to improve their game.

Argyle’s Olympic Equestrian

Reyna Taylor photo courtesy of Reyna Taylor’s family

by Barbara-Scott Kolb

A

rgyle resident Reyna Taylor’s life

“But I had a couple of days to regroup for my

what began as a little girl’s quiet interest in

turned upside down after receiving

next event, the English Equitation, which is

horses would open her world up to achieving

a letter in the mail from the Special

one of my strongest events.”

not only life’s typical milestones but finding

Olympics World Games. The Taylor family could not contain their excitement when they read the news that Reyna had been invited to represent the United States in

Despite a rocky start, she bounced back in her second appearance at the Games and

While Reyna revels in her recent

earned the Bronze medal.

accomplishments from Abu Dhabi, she has

Equestrianism at the 2019 Special Olympics

“Thrilled to have redeemed herself with

in Abu Dhabi.

an incredible performance, Reyna stated,

Reyna was diagnosed with autism at age 4.

Shortly after her diagnosis, Reyna’s parents

herself on the world stage.”

“Winning the Bronze was a huge relief as a result of all my hard work; it was the best

already started preparing for her next events.

She will return to competition at the State Special Olympics in May, followed by the upcoming Summer Olympic Games in Berlin,

feeling to turn around and hug my coach.”

Germany.

Riding Unlimited, and she quickly became

Reyna wrapped up her Olympic debut taking

Congratulations to Reyna Taylor for

enthralled with horses.

6th place in her final event, Dressage. Upon

“I first got on a horse at six years old, and I

the family’s arrival back home, not only

enrolled her in a therapeutic program,

didn’t want to get off,” Reyna said. “Riding horses has always made me feel free — free

were they met with a community parade in declared a “Reyna Taylor Day.”

Reyna now rides religiously at Stable Strides,

“The parade was amazing; I was friends and the community come out to

put in has now qualified Reyna to compete

celebrate me,” Reyna said.

on a global stage alongside the best

Her parents, Jim and Yolanda Taylor, have been adamant in their pursuit of instilling a

During her first event in Abu Dhabi —the

strong work ethic in Reyna, no matter the

English Trail — Reyna lost balance, and her

obstacles she faces.

foot slipped out of the stirrup, which causes a disqualification at the World Games.

for all athletes.

overwhelmed with emotion to see my

Mandy Cleveland. The hard work the duo

equestrians in the world.

demonstrating the importance of inclusion

Reyna’s honor, but the town of Argyle also

of any frustrations.”

under the guidance of professional trainer

representing the U.S. impeccably and

“She works hard with a determination and passion that defines who she is, as she is

“It was hard to overcome; I was disappointed

living her life without a glass ceiling,” her

I couldn’t regain my balance,” Reyna said.

mother stated. “I couldn’t have imagined that Spring / Summer 2019 • Argyle Insights •

11

Introducing Our New Principal

Dr. Jordan D

r. Dawn Jordan has worked in education for 17 years. She has taught introductory Spanish, science, and biology. Dr. Jordan spent three years as a high school assistant principal and five years an an elementary school principal.

Dr. Jordan attended Incarnate Word Catholic University, where she earned her Bachelor’s Degree. She went on to earn her Master’s Degree at the University on Southern Mississippi and her Doctorate at William Carey University.

TEXAS STATE YOUTH WRESTLING CHAMPION

ASA WARD

VO L L E Y BAL L SCHOLARSHIPS

W

e’re super proud of High School freshman Asa Ward. On March 2 at a wrestling event in El Paso he won the Texas State Youth Wrestling Champion in Division 4 at weight 142.

This is the 2nd state youth wrestling title for Asa, as he also won it in 2017.

He wrestles for the Argyle Wrestling team and also trains at Texan Wrestling Club and Mile High Wrestling. GO ASA!

12

• Argyle Insights • Spring / Summer 2019

Mabry Ward

M

Paxton McGlinch

abry Ward and Paxton McGlinch are the first Argyle ISD athletes to obtain athletic scholarships to play beach volleyball in college. The NCAA recently sanctioned beach volleyball as a collegiate sport in 2016. Both girls were starting players on the Argyle varsity indoor volleyball team this year and both are members of the National Honor Society. Mabry Ward will be attending Tusculum University in Greenville, Tennessee. Paxton McGlinch will attend Stetson University in DeLand, Florida.

Dr. Jordan is excited about getting to know the staff, students, and families in Argyle. “I am also excited to celebrate student growth and success while we learn and have fun!”

When asked what she loves most about being a principal, she states that she loves the relationships she is able to build with staff, students, and families. “I am invested in the success of our school, so I thrive off of seeing our students learn, mature, and grow!”

Traveling

ART MUSEUM Content Provided by Ashley Cooley

M

rs. Ashley Cooley is in her 20th year teaching. Mrs. Cooley is proud to say that she grew up and went to school in Argyle. Mrs. Ruestmann was her art teacher when she was in elementary school. The innocence in elementary is what keeps her smiling every day. The week that they hold the traveling art museum is Mrs. Cooley’s favorite because she says it is a little like a vacation from the everyday norm. Mrs. Cooley is not just a general education teacher, she is also an art appreciation teacher. Children are always the best

audience, says Cooley. “I couldn’t wait to come to school every day that the Traveling Art Exhibit was on display. Our PTA was once again kind enough to purchase the exhibit for arts and education in order to acquaint children with Van Gogh & Michelangelo,” said Cooley.

Cooley stated that nothing comes close to viewing the original work of the old masters. Knowing the historical and artistic context it was created in and then seeing the “real thing” right in front of you is like no other experience. For so many children,

this opportunity never becomes a reality, says Cooley. Arts education is an essential component of a child’s curriculum. Art inspires and children are most creative when they are inspired. Teachers and parents want their children to be exposed to art, especially when it has such a positive effect on their creativity and questioning.

This year, Mrs. Cooley’s favorite piece of art was Van Gogh's Starry Night. She said she wants to reach out and touch the swirling stars. “I think they look like lemon icing on a cupcake...so dreamy!”

Spring / Summer 2019 • Argyle Insights •

13

GOOGLE

Goggles

by Mary Ann Riley

V

irtual Reality has come to Argyle Inter-

War took place, such as Fort Sumter, the

mediate School! Thanks to the Argyle

Gettysburg battlefield, and the Hunley, a

Education Foundation, Book Fair profits,

Civil War-era submarine that was discovered

and AIS Campus funds, the Library was able

in Charleston Harbor.

to purchase a Google Expeditions Virtual Reality Kit!

Mrs. Blue's and Mrs. Pugh's classes won a Google Expedition for bringing the most

Our kids have visited all kinds of fabulous

Box Tops to the Library and took a trip under

places in virtual field trips and experienced

the sea to view coral reefs around the world.

amazing science and social studies topics

In April, Mrs. Williams' STEM students were

through Britannica books and different VR

able to visit six different biomes, such as the

Apps. Mrs. Riley & Mrs. Williams collab-

Tundra, Taiga, Temperate Forest, Tropical

orated to take kids in STEM classes on a

Rainforest, Savannah, and the Desert.

virtual trip to the North Pole via Google

Students then put their knowledge to use to

Expeditions, as well as Santa's residence in

create special homes that would survive the

the North Pole in December.

conditions of those specific biomes.

In January, Mrs. Moore’s 4th Graders

AIS students have really enjoyed working

participated in a virtual field trip to the

with the Virtual Reality goggles in Library

Grand Canyon to help students understand

MakerSpaces and traveling with Google

more about natural resources and the

Expeditions in different classrooms. Thank

erosion and weathering processes in nature.

you Argyle Education Foundation and AIS

In February, 5th Graders took a virtual field

parents for buying books at our Book Fair to

trip to many different sites where the Civil

raise money for this amazing digital tool!

Photo Courtesy of Mary Ann Riley and Pam Arrington

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• Argyle Insights • Spring / Summer 2019

Spring / Summer 2019 • Argyle Insights •

15

HEALTH SCIENCE

TECHNOLOGY Content provided by Mrs. Carrie Sisco

H

er background is in medical technology. Mrs. Sisco started working in Argyle ISD in 2016 and teaches Health Science Technology.Health Science Technology is a coherent sequence of classes. The courses are designed for students who are interested in the medical field. Through the classes, students can determine if medicine (or veterinary medicine) is the pathway they wish to continue post high school.

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• Argyle Insights • Spring / Summer 2019

• Course 1: Principles of Health Science This course is an overview of the world of medicine. Students learn about a variety of topics such as the history of medicine, careers, body systems and how they work together to keep the body functioning, trends in health care, and so much more! One important aspect of this class is that students are introduced to a variety of careers in the healthcare field, many of which the students did not know existed.

• Course 2: Health Science 1 This course moves from the overview of the previous course to a more focused

In class, students continue their studies focusing on topics relevant to their future careers. Students spend a significant amount of time learning about HIPAA (Health Insurance Portability Accountability Act). Students also focus on job skills/ professionalism that are relevant to all careers. Some examples of hands on training include Bedmaking (occupied and unoccupied), taking vital signs, patient transfers, infection control measures, CPR/first aid, and patient care .Practicum students learn to perform tasks deemed safe and legal by their Practicum site mentor.

one. Students earn their CPR/first aid cards. Some of the topics covered in this class are the physiology behind vital signs, homeostasis, extensive medical terminology, infection control, communication in health care and much more. The skills learned in this class include (but are not limited to) vital signs, CPR/ first aid, bedmaking (occupied and unoccupied), infection control measures, patient transfers, • Course 3: Anatomy and Physiology • Course 4: Practicum in Health Science This course is the capstone of the program. Students spend a portion of class each week shadowing a healthcare professional in a healthcare facility. Students observe first hand the career they wish to pursue in a real world experience/setting. Through this experience, students are able to make an educated decision about the career path they wish pursue. An added bonus is the students now have a resource/mentor to rely on as they journey toward their goal.

The Health Science students get to participate in many different types of projects.

• Research projects (including visuals, etc.) over the dissemination of health care throughout the world (vs. that of the United States) Practicum level.

Practicum students also research and teach the other students how to communicate with patients from cultures other than their own that they might encounter throughout career.

• Research diseases and the pathogens that cause them. Students make a representation of the pathogen (You should see them hanging from my classroom ceiling!)

• Design board games, write children’s books, write a graphic novel that explains one of the body systems to a student in kindergarten through third grade. We actually have game day to play the games designed by students!

• Role playing activities

Mrs. Sisco has former students who are now in the following careers: nurses, nurse practitioners, physicians (including a ER physician), registered dietitians, dentists, occupational therapists, paramedics, veterinarians and vet techs, a mortician, a doula, and a forensic Scientist.

Students in the Health Science Program, especially those students who follow the entire pathway, have the opportunity to learn specific information related to the career(s) in which they are interested but ultimately by participating in and completing the Practicum course students are able to make informed, educated decisions about their future career.

If you have interest or are curious about the healthcare field then this is the class for you!! Mrs. Sisco loves working with students. She loves their enthusiasm and interest. “What could be better than combining two of the things I am passionate about – healthcare and teaching?” “I think it is an awesome combination!”

STUDENT QUOTES “I have had the amazing opportunity to be involved in the Health Science Program all four years of high school.”

“This program has educated me on necessary skills for the medical world, but also skills for the real world.”

-Claire Chowning

• Many others Spring / Summer 2019 • Argyle Insights •

17

BLACK HISTORY

Month

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• Argyle Insights • Spring / Summer 2019

Photo by Mrs. Christy Keck

M

rs. Gloria Hocking poses in front of a display for Black History Month at AHS. Students at AHS researched key figures in history and put together famous quotes from Black Historians. Every week, a new quote and figure was added. Students also made daily announcements of Black History facts. Through the social studies classes, the students studied the Civil Rights Movement. Mrs. Hocking is wearing a Niarobi Authentic Wax Dress in this photo. We want to recognize her for supporting and promoting Black History Month in our district and making an impact on our students.

A Message From AMS Principal

Mr. Gibson W

The greenhouse, garden, and

hen you are driving by the middle

water and grow naturally in this area.

school, it is hard not to notice

The garden and greenhouse concentrate

bluebonnet areas have positively added

the greenhouse behind the school with

on vegetables and herbs and teaching

to our school in how it looks and in the

a connected raised flower bed garden.

the students when to plant and when to

smiles it brings to the student’s faces who

Also behind the school are bluebonnets

harvest different species of vegetables.

get to enjoy them. Thank you to all who

that were planted in the fall of 2016

The new Outdoor Classroom area has a

when we had only been in the building

gravel area with three picnic tables now

for a few months. These flowers are

with the idea to add more next year. The

now in full bloom and occupy almost

idea behind this is that all classes can take

one acre of land. Students have enjoyed

advantage of the outdoors with enough

taking pictures during flex time of these

seating for an entire class.

have helped better our school.

beautiful creations.

AMS Environmental Science students

Thank you to the following

have been hard at work this season

for donations:

amping up our Garden and Greenhouse

• The Home Depot in Roanoke for

areas. With the leadership of Mrs. Lisa Roderick and Mrs. Kristi Thetford, the students have added additional flower beds and an outdoor learning center. The students added a total of five flower beds around the outskirts of the garden area.

This area will concentrate on growing Native to Texas plants that require little

$150 in gift cards to help supply plants and dirt • Mrs. Sharon Garrison for dirt to fill our flower beds • Mr. Franklin for the gravel in the picnic table area • The many student donations of garden supplies

Mr. Scott Gibson, Principal Argyle Middle School 940.246.2126 Ext. 3002 Spring / Summer 2019 • Argyle Insights •

19

EDIBLE

CAR CONTEST

T

Info provided by Mrs Kristi Thetford

exas Woman’s University hosted its 21st annual Edible Car Contest on Friday, Feb 8. The contest challenged Dallas-Fort Worth area grade school students to combine their creative ideas with principles of mathematics and physics. Students in teams of four (with a minimum of two female participants per team) built small cars entirely out of edible materials, which were then judged in several categories, including ingenuity, mobility, and design. The teams also competed against each other for the fastest race times by rolling their cars down an inclined racetrack.

Argyle Middle School had 65 teams participate out of the 89 total teams that were there.

AWARDS MOST PARTICIPANTS Professor and chair of the TWU Department of Mathematics and Computer Science, Don Edwards, Ph.D., presented an additional award of $300.00 to Argyle Middle School’s Mrs. Kristi Thetford for bringing the most participants.

BEST USE OF MATERIALS Team 35: Argyle Middle School- Ella Stoops. Miranda Dipietro, Sophia Summerford, Jonah Bird FIVE FASTEST RACE TIMES - NEW AWARD FOR 2019 Team 13: Argyle Middle School- Merritt Hawkesworth, Hannah Daniel, Addison Sarratt, and Kate Rendon Team 23: Argyle Middle School- Sara Daniels, Victoria Taylor, Reagan Faria, and Allison Giese Team 46: Argyle Middle School- Sara Shilling, Sofia Wolfe, Ethan Vest, and Trevor Patton

20

• Argyle Insights • Spring / Summer 2019

Argyle High School

Debate Team @

CX DEBATE

COMPETITION Photos and content provided by Mrs. Jessica Reynolds

T

he AHS Debate Team has had many successes this spring, starting with

our District CX Debate competition in February. Their three teams placed 1st (Morgan Stone and Savanna Lessley), 2nd (Tristan Ball and Callie Crosslin), and 3rd (Alec Allen and Landry McClure), and they were also the overall District Champions.

The top two teams from that meet also qualified for state, making school history as the first state qualifiers in this event.

The two teams competed at the state meet on March 22 and 23. Tristan Ball and Callie Crosslin went 2-2, getting knocked out on the first day of competition.

Morgan Stone and Savanna Lessley went 3-1 on Day 1 and qualified to compete on Day 2. On Day 2 of the competition, the duo went 1-1 to place 8th in the state.

They made school history being Argyle’s first ever state medalist in this event. The debate team is proud of both teams for representing Argyle so well at the UIL CX Debate State Meet.

Our next events took place at the UIL District Meet on March 27th. The Debate team took home the following awards: Informative Speaking 1st- Billy Mykel* 2nd- Savanna Lessley* 3rd- Tristan Ball* Persuasive Speaking 1st- Morgan Stone* 3rd- Eric Giangiulio* 4th- Landon LeBoeuf LD Debate 1st- Joseph Thompson* 2nd- Billy Mykel* 3rd- Nick Loveday* Poetry 1st- Jackson Barnes* 2nd- Alex Govea* 3rd- Peyton Deffenbaugh* Prose 2nd- Jenna Schnabel* 3rd- Carlin Clark* 6th- Caden Reeves *Region qualifier

The debate team was also named Speech Champions at the district meet.

At the region level the debate team took home the follow awards: Informative Speaking 3rd- Savanna Lessley* 4th -Billy Mykel 5th- Tristan Ball LD Debate 2nd- Joseph Thompson* Poetry 2nd- Jackson Barnes* 4th- Peyton Deffenbaugh *State qualifier The debate team was also the 2nd place speech team in the region. They will go on to compete at the UIL Speech and Debate State Meet on May 29th and 30th. This is the first time in school history that Argyle has had state qualifiers in LD Debate, Informative Speaking, and Poetry.

Spring / Summer 2019 • Argyle Insights •

21

tes a d p U SWEEPSTAKES The AMS Honor Winds and Symphonic Band performed at the Region 2 UIL Concert and Sightreading evaluation and earned a first division rating from every adjudicator. This award is called sweepstakes and is a product of our student’s hard work and dedication!

MUSIC FOR ALL NATIONAL FESTIVAL The Argyle Middle School Honor Winds were selected to perform at this year’s Music For All National festival. The festival had hundreds of applicants from around the country and only eight middle school bands were selected.

The students’ hard work started in August as they began to work on their music for this trip and slowly learned more and more of it. Over spring break, these students flew to Indianapolis, rehearsed, had master classes from professional musicians, and put on a fantastic performance! In addition to performing at the Schrott Center at Butler University, these students were in the audience for several bands from Texas, New York, New Jersey, and Hawaii! They also got to hear an incredible performance by the Honor Band of America.

As the festivities subsided, we went on a tour of the Indianapolis Motor Speedway and made our way home.

MEDIEVAL TIMES The AMS band took a trip to the queen’s castle for a tournament at Medieval Times!

Students cheered for their knight, ate food with their hands, and had a FUN time with their friends!

UIL REGION 2 CONCERT AND SIGHT READING EVALUATION

ARGYLE HIGH SCHOOL WINTER GUARD

This spring, the Argyle Wind Ensemble and Symphonic Band have been hard at work preparing music for the UIL Region 2 Concert and Sight Reading Evaluation. The ensembles performed at the contest on April 3rd and 4th. We are proud to announce that both high school ensembles and both middle school ensembles received straight ones from the adjudicators. Of the 22 ensembles in attendance, only seven of them received straight ones.

Four of them were from Argyle ISD.

The Argyle High School Winter Color Guard is currently completing their 2019 season at the NTCA Grand Championships on April 13th. They have had an incredible season, finishing with the silver medal at the NTCA Championships in March.

22

• Argyle Insights • Spring / Summer 2019

Letter from Argyle High School

PRINCIPAL

A

s the 2018-19 school year draws to a close, we turn our focus to the students who will be walking the stage and beginning a new chapter of their lives. This time of the year is always filled with mixed emotions. Of course, we are so proud of our seniors and this huge accomplishment in their lives. Thirteen years of work encapsulated into one evening as they accept their diplomas and are forever known as graduates of Argyle High School. We will miss the senior class of 2019, and we are certainly proud of everything that have accomplished.

There is an old saying that “It takes a village to raise a child.” This could not be more accurate, and I would like to take a minute to thank everyone who has

invested time, attention, and effort into our seniors. Let me start off by thanking all of the parents. You have done an amazing job raising such fine young men and women. Your investment into your child’s life will cause a ripple effect with no end. In just a few words, let me say “Job Well Done.” Next, I would like to thank each teacher and coach – from Pre-K all the way to high school – who have impacted our seniors. Students may forget some of the material that you taught them, but they will never forget the relationships they formed with you.

Simply put, teachers impact lives, and I am very appreciative of all of you who have touched the lives of our senior class. Finally, I would like to thank the

community of Argyle for the investment you have made into the lives of our seniors. Each of you in some way has touched the lives of these students.

No matter how big or how small your actions may have seemed, you, too, touched a child’s life, and we thank you.

To the seniors, I wish you the very best as you spread your wings and head off into the real world. Please always remember who you are and who you represent. I encourage you to make good choices and seek wise counsel. You will forever be an Argyle Eagle, and you are always welcomed here. Please don’t be a stranger – we want you to come back and share your success stories with us. Best of luck Class of 2019!

Until next year...

John King Argyle High School Principal

Murray Media Group wishes seniors, students, and staff a happy and safe summer.

Don’t Miss us! Follow us on facebook during the summer on facebook @ArgyleInsights Live in Argyle? Follow @argylelivingmagazine on facebook for local news and events. The magazine is mailed monthly to homes in Argyle so be sure to check your mailbox.

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Call Us Today at 972.899.3637 for a FREE Quote!

Spring / Summer 2019 • Argyle Insights •

23

Super Performance

& AWARDS Content and photos provided by Mrs. Will Griswold

T

he Argyle ISD Choir program has

Ensembles to perform at the highest level

experienced great success throughout

of difficulty. Every Choir that performed for

the 2019 Spring semester. We are so excited

Argyle received encouraging comments from

about the steps that our program is taking

our judges complimenting our powerful and

to become one of the most recognized

moving performances. We hope to continue

programs in the DFW metroplex. In only

to build on this success next school year and

three years, our program has grown from 11

bring more Superior Performance and Sight-

students to more than 300 students district-

Reading Awards to Argyle ISD.

wide participating in Choir throughout the year. This growth occurred because there are countless numbers of Argyle students who are passionate about music and love to sing.

We want to say thank you to our wonderful parents who support us at concerts and community events, to our administrative staff

UIL RESULTS AND AWARDS •

MS Men’s Choir - Superior

that continues to bolster the strength of our

Performance & Excellent

Choir program in every way, and our Choir

Sight-Reading

Booster Club who continues to support the growth and excellence of our program.

•

Performance (Straight 1s) & Excellent

This Spring, Mr. Griswold took four Choirs to the 4A and Down UIL Concert and Sight-Reading Contest, and all four Choirs

Sight-Reading •

HS Bella Voce - Excellent Performance & Superior Sight-

received at least one Superior Award. Three

Reading (Straight 1s)

of the four choirs performed at the UIL contest for the first time in school history,

MS Treble Choir - Superior

•

HS Concert Choir - UIL Sweepstakes

and their performances were nothing

Award - Superior Performance &

short of incredible. The HS Concert Choir

Sight-Reading (Received the highest

performed for the second time in school

rating possible from all six UIL judges

history and was one of only two Varsity

for the 2nd year in a row)

24

• Argyle Insights • Spring / Summer 2019

Spring / Summer 2019 • Argyle Insights •

25

Dr. Suess Day

26

• Argyle Insights • Spring / Summer 2019

ARGYLE EAGLE ARCHERY

Head to Nationals!

Content and photos provided by Mrs. Jessica Wade

T

he National Archery in the Schools Program (NASP) is an in-school program aimed at improving educational performance among students in grades 4th - 12th. And through it students are learning focus, self-control, discipline, patience, and the life lessons required to be successful in the classroom and in life.

Throughout the school year, the Argyle Eagle Archers work hard to practice and compete at tournaments across the state.

Their season starts in October and they hope their hard work lands them qualifying for Nationals. This year (like most years), their hard work paid off and they were able to compete in the NASP Western Nationals Tournament on April 26th and 27th! The following are the results from the tournament:

Participants: Keaton Barnes, Saianiketh Battepati, Lily Beaulieu, Jordyn Davis, Reagan Faria, Charleigh Harbison, Sriman Kandula, Maximilian Kintzley, Tessa Kneip, Branna Krumme, Tristan Medrano, Drighten Miller, Kaiden Miller, Puneet Nunsavathu, Savannah Scoggin, Nolan Wade, Rylee Wintermute, Jack Woods, Evan Young

Elementary Cole Murray - 1st Place Elementary Boy, 1st Place 4th Grade Boy

Kyle Cherms - 9th Place 9th Grade Boys

3D - 7th Place Team Overall Participants: Keaton Barnes, Saianiketh Battepati, Lily Beaulieu, Jordyn Davis, Reagan Faria, Sriman Kandula, Maximilian Kintzley, Tessa Kneip, Branna Krumme, Puneet Nunsavathu, Savannah Scoggin, Rylee Wintermute, Evan Young High Bullseye

Maxwell Knoernschild - 5th Place 4th Grade Boy Zachary Gibbons - 9th Place 4th Grade Boy

3D

Participants: Bryce Baker, Emily Dallas, Eric Ebeling, Henry Edmondson, Zach Gibbons, Nick Griffin, Maxwell Knoernschild, Cole Murray, Olivia Murray, Jackson Nelson, Rylee Pizana, Ryan Stegmaier

Stephen Ebeling - 6th Place 10th Grade Boys

Middle Bullseye - 4th Place Team Overall

Middle School Team

Riley Milam - 8th Place 9th Grade Girls Participants: Kevin Arnold, Trent Baker, Amanda Cheatham, Kyle Cherms, Austin Criswell, Stephen Ebeling, Gabriella Guidry, Neva Henderson, Riley Milam, Asher Rajan, Heather Roberts, LeNora Schindler

Emily Dallas - 10th Place Elementary Girl, 7th Place 5th Grade Girl

Elementary Team

High School Team

Riley Milam - 6th Place 9th Grade Girls Participants: Amanda Cheatham, Kyle Cherms, Austin Criswell, Stephen Ebeling, Gabriella Guidry, Riley Milam, Heather Roberts, LeNora Schindler

Saianiketh Battepati - 7th Place Middle Boy, 2nd Place 6th Grade Boy Charleigh Harbison - 1st Place 6th Grade Girl Spring / Summer 2019 • Argyle Insights •

27

COMPUTER

SCIENCE with Mr. Rashidur Rahman Content provided by Mr. Rashidur Rahman

M

r. Rashidur Rahman graduated with a Bachelors in Business Administration in Decision Science with concentration in Information Systems and holds a

Masters in Business Administration with a concentration in Economics. He has been teaching for 15 years, with the last four years being at Argyle High School. When asked what he likes about working at Argyle High School, he stated that he is honored to be a teacher at AHS and work with such talented and hard working students.

28

• Argyle Insights • Spring / Summer 2019

“I am blessed to be able to teach Accounting, Computer Programming,

High School accounting focuses on: •

Computer Science, and PAP Geometry at

Career and Technology Education is

Understanding the language of business

divided into 16 different clusters which include:

are high demand careers. The cluster

AHS. I love that I am able to learn new

•

Analyzing business transactions

things everyday. I consider myself as a

•

Preparing and analyzing financial documents

•

Health science

•

Business

•

Researching business topics on the Internet

•

Sales

•

Using spreadsheet software

•

Finance

•

Government

•

Information technology

•

Science, technology, engineering, and math

•

Manufacturing

(364,000), health professions and related

•

Logistics

programs (216,000), social sciences and

•

Hospitality

history (167,000), psychology (118,000),

•

Law

biological and biomedical sciences

•

Agriculture

(110,000), engineering (98,000), visual and

•

Human services

performing arts (96,000), and education

•

Construction

•

Training

•

Arts, audio/visual technology,

student for life and I hope that all my students from freshmen to seniors realize that they are also students for life. We never stop learning!”

According to the National Center for Education Statistics, “Of the 1,895,000 bachelor’s degrees conferred in 2014–15, the greatest numbers of degrees were conferred in the fields of business

(92,000).” (NCES) Knowing that the vast majority of students when they attend college will

and communications

major in some kind of business field, it only makes sense to offer them classes such in high school to prepare. Some of the classes offered at AHS are; Accounting, Business Computer Information System, Computer Programming and Computer Science to name a few. Business Majors at colleges or universities require students to take two semester of Accounting and Programming classes and studies have found that students who are exposed to

High School Programming focuses on: •

Problem solving techniques using computers

•

Analyzing and synthesizing complex problems

•

Understanding the development of software

Accounting or Computer Programming in high school are better prepared to take college classes then students who have not taken these classes. Students with prior Accounting or Computer Programming knowledge have a higher retention in business programs than students who waited and took Accounting or Programming as their first class at a

Through funding from the Argyle Education Foundation, Argyle ISD is able to offer Computer Science and Programming.

college or university.

Spring / Summer 2019 • Argyle Insights •

29

2019 AISD

Retiree

Spotlights Congrats

Coach Stephen Chancelor

Mr. Jerry Cardwell

Mrs. Kathy Arendt

Mrs. Laura Sutton

Mrs. Marylin Ellis

Mrs. Mauri Whaley

Mrs. Robbin Higgs

Mrs. Sue Dourgarian

Mrs. Tracie Smith

Ms. Jane Ruestmann

to Everyone

30

• Argyle Insights • Spring / Summer 2019

Timothy Davis ARGYLE’S STUDENT

OF MANY TALENTS

by Barbara-Scott Kolb

E

ver since he enrolled at Argyle

and pride himself on — he can also add All-

his life, specifically Chemistry teacher

High School, Timothy Davis has

State Band to that list of feats.

Kimberly Kass and UIL Math Coordinator

conquered milestone after milestone

while excelling in every activity he’s been involved in. His senior year is close to an end, but no matter the task – academics, marching band, or volunteer work – those who know Timothy the best expect him to continue pouring every ounce of his focus and energy into those passions as he moves on to the next stage of

With a strong passion for music, he began percussion lessons in the sixth grade.

“I have the utmost respect for all the

He’s so talented that The Troopers Drum &

staff and teachers; they are world-class

Full-Ride Academic Scholarship

his life – college.

Timothy has been accepted to Texas A&M

and Algebra teacher Russell Perkins.

Bugle Corps based out of Casper, Wyoming noticed Timothy’s skill

educators and have made a profound impact in my life,” Timothy said. “I can’t

as a percussionist and offered him

thank them enough.”

a position to perform with the

Another testament to Timothy’s character

corps throughout the country. He plans to join The Troopers at the appropriate time but decided that

this summer would best be spent preparing for his freshman year at A&M.

was his choice to volunteer as a junior counselor at Wyldlife, the middle school branch of the Christian organization, Young Life. His family has had an insurmountable amount of pride watching their son grow

on a full-ride academic scholarship.

“Marching band taught me how to commit

through his various activities, all the while

“I am incredibly thankful for all the support

to hard work. I put hours of practice into

keeping God at the forefront of his life.

this activity I love, and I was able to reap

my friends and family have shown me through high school, and I am thankful for how friendly and supportive the Argyle community has been to me,” Timothy said as he inches closer to closing out this chapter of his life.

the positive benefits from my practice,” Timothy said. “Marching band taught me a new level of commitment.”

at Argyle have worked with

Engineering in college, thanking Chemistry teacher Mrs. Kass for introducing him to the subject he found to be his calling

As for his academic success, the administrative staff and teachers

Timothy plans to study Chemical

and aspires to work for a semiconductor

Conquered

manufacturing company, such as Intel or Texas

Dedication to his education propelled

Timothy since Kindergarten and

Timothy to being ranked No. 1 in his class

have watched his journey as he

as well as two-time state champion in

has flourished into an extremely

the UIL Calculator competition, status as

intelligent young man with plenty

a national merit scholar, and earned him

of talent. When not playing

a full ride at A&M through the Craig and

music, the focus of Timothy’s

Galen Brown Foundation Scholarship. But

studies has revolved around math and

“I’m very excited about my future as an

academic excellence is merely one of many

science; he referred to his teachers as

Aggie and for the paths that college may

accomplishments at Argyle to remember

some of the most influential people in

take me on.”

Milestone After Milestone

Instruments.

“I will always appreciate how gracious the community of Argyle has been to me,” Timothy said.

Spring / Summer 2019 • Argyle Insights •

31

32

• Argyle Insights • Spring / Summer 2019

A Message from the

ARGYLE INTERMEDIATE SCHOOL I

PRINCIPAL

t is hard to believe that we are almost

people. First and foremost, the wonderful

second to none. There has never been

to the end of the 2018-19 school year.

teachers that I worked with these last five

anything I’ve asked for that PTA was not

What a successful school year it has been.

years. Some are going with me to Argyle

able to provide. I look forward to the new

Reflecting on the journey we have taken

West while others are staying behind. I

students, parents, and staff that will make

so far this year makes me realize how

have appreciated the dedication, hard

up the Argyle West School community,

fortunate we are at Argyle Intermediate.

work, and loyalty they have to each other,

and I know we will achieve great things

Our school has been successful due to

their students, and parents. I couldn’t

together. Dr. Dawn Jordan will be starting

the awesome collaborative partnership

ask for a better group of people to work

as the new AIS principal in July. She comes

between students, staff

with. We have become a

from Lewisville ISD, where I also came

members, and parents. Our

close-knit family. It will be

from. I know she will be a great fit for our

students are meeting high

difficult to adjust to the

AIS students and parents.

standards of performance

change, however, change

Please enjoy the change of pace that

due to the excellent

is always good and grows

summer brings. Have a happy, relaxing,

teaching from our fabulous

you as a person. I would

and safe summer with your children. We

staff and support from

like to thank the parents

look forward to seeing everyone upon our

our parents. We must

for trusting me to run this

return for the 2019-20 school year. The

recognize our students for

school and take care of

AIS office will be open through June 7th,

their perseverance, hard

your babies. I’ve always said

7:30 a.m. to 3:30 p.m., so please feel

work, and effort displayed throughout the school year.

Our work is not quite done though; we still have lots of learning left.

During the final weeks of

Mrs. Renee Funderburg Current AIS Principal Principal of New Elementary - Fall of 2019

school, staff and students

that I have 450 children,

free to contact us

because I love them and

if you have any

treat them as if they

questions.

were my own. I want

Please also

to thank the students

stop by Argyle

I’ve had throughout

West anytime

the years. My first

are busy with teaching and learning,

group are sophomores this year that

STAAR tests, and exciting events such as

I had as sixth graders. Thank you for

field trips, end of the year parties, awards

the wonderful memories we created

ceremonies, and other celebrations.

on this campus. Finally, I’d like to

Please see our calendar on our website for

thank all the PTA presidents

dates and details.

and board members that

Since this is my last Insights article

and say “Hi!” Have a wonderful summer!!

I’ve had the privilege to

as the principal of AIS, I would like to

work beside. Your support of

take this opportunity to thank several

me and my staff was always

Spring / Summer 2019 • Argyle Insights •

33

AISD TRANSPORTATION

UPDATE W

by Albert Rutledge

OW, it’s hard to believe that the

grade. The Board approved walk to stop

they attend middle school and high school

2018-19 school year is nearly

distances help to shorten ride times for all

in the future.

complete. It seems to have flown by again

students riding the school bus to and

this year. Due to the continued success of our athletic, academic, and other student activities, the Transportation Department has very been busy ensuring transportation is available to take our students to the next level of competition. So far this school year, in addition

from school.

Nobody could ride the school bus if it was not for the hard work and dedication of our school bus drivers, trainers, mechanics, and office staff.

It takes a team to run the Transportation Department. Nobody could ride the

Unfortunately, routes

school bus if it was not for the hard work

are being eliminated for

and dedication of our school bus drivers,

PK-5th grade students

trainers, mechanics, and office staff. I

living in the Harvest

would like to thank them for all of their

community due to the

hard work transporting your students

limitations of state funding

safely this school year. If you would like

for transportation services.

to be part of our team, we are hiring and

Guidelines for state

training new drivers for the upcoming

to our home to school trips, our staff

funding does not reimburse the school

school year. Please contact us if you are

has processed more than 897 field trip

district for students living within two miles

interested in joining our team of hard

requests totaling more than 1,165

from their campus. All of the homes within

working professionals.

vehicle assignments.

the Harvest community are within two

As this year draws to an end, we

Thank you for the opportunity to

miles of Argyle West Elementary School.

transport your students this school year.

are in the process of planning for the

Our drivers will miss your students and

We are looking forward to transporting

2019-20 school year. Preliminary routes

are looking forward to seeing them again

your students again next school year.

are in development. Students who have

when they travel on a field trip or when

Have a wonderful summer!

registered for transportation services are being assigned to the new routes.

Preliminary stop times for next school year will be posted online on or before June 10th.

As the Canyon Falls community continues to grow, routes are being added to accommodate the growing number of students. The walk to stop distance for Argyle ISD students is ¼ mile for PK-5th grade and ½ mile for 6th – 12th

Spring / Summer 2019 • Argyle Insights •

35

To the Argyle community, Thank you to each of you who participated in our eighth annual Shoot for the Stars community event held in memory of our son, Alex Betzhold. Alex passed in his sleep, Jan 17, 2012, due to an undiagnosed heart condition.

We find great meaning through youth heart screenings generously donated each year by Living for Zachary. If you have never had your child’s heart screened, please contact L4Z or your local doctor to do so. Nearly 50% of SCA patients have no prior symptoms.

Our 3-on-3 basketball tournament hosted 33 teams this year. It was an honor to see such fun generated through participation in this sport that Alex loved so dearly. Thanks go out to Nash Rouly and the A-train team, as well as Jaime Hackney, for sharing words of inspiration. A special tribute was given at the dove release in memory and honor of those who have passed in our community. We appreciate those giving blood at the AHS Student Council blood drive.

Thank you to everyone in attendance at our Music under the Stars evening event! We enjoyed student performers Katie and Carly Haynes, Alex Govea, Frankie Arrington, Katie Arrington, and Mattie Kelton, as well as George Dunham and the Bird Dogs, the Ray Johnston Band, Zach Nytomt and the Thieving Birds.

Great generosity was once again shown through all who donated and bought items in our Silent Auction.

We are forever grateful for the Shoot for the Stars committee for their countless hours in planning and running each event. God’s light shines brightly through these individuals and the great love shown through our community!

The Betzhold Family

Spring / Summer 2019 • Argyle Insights •

37

Thank You to All the Shoot for The Stars Sponsors!

38

• Argyle Insights • Spring / Summer 2019

UPDATES

I

t was a historic season for the Lady Eagles soccer team, as they finished the year 16-6-2. They won their first ever district championship, and for the first time in the history of the program, won multiple playoff games. The team dominated District 7-4A. In nine district games, the Lady Eagles scored 51 goals and only allowed two. They advanced to the regional quarterfinals, where they lost to Castleberry in penalty kicks. The Lady Eagles are only graduating one Senior, Ti Krumme (defender), who is going on to play college soccer at Northwestern State University (LA). This is Coach Marc Koke’s 19th year coaching and his eighth year to be coaching in Argyle. His favorite thing about coaching is building relationships with the athletes.

Content provided by Coach Koke

T

he AHS Boys Soccer Team played in the regional semifinals and for the third time in program history played in the region tournament.

The team finished 17-6-2, second in district.

Congratulations to Coach Parks and his team on a very successful year. Kyle Banar was named district 7-4A offensive player of the year.

Connor Banar, Tyler DeBruin, Grant Shaw, and Carter Dodson were named first team all-district.

Adam Schleder, Colin Crawford, Eli Garcia, and Connor Webster were named second team all-district. Gage McCutcheon, Nick Malik, Caden Dodson, and Mason White were named honorable mention all-district.

Content provided by Coach Parks

Spring / Summer 2019 • Argyle Insights •

39

Family & Consumer Sciences with Mrs. Rhonda Hill Content provided by Mrs. Rhonda Hill

M

Mrs. Hill attended the University

to strengthen her skill set and grow as

of Central Oklahoma. She has taught

an educator. “As an elective teacher, I

she would have all of her stuffed animals

in three school districts; OKC Public

am blessed to have students who have

gathered around as she pretended to be

Schools, Lewisville ISD, and Argyle. Mrs.

chosen to take my classes and have an

Hill said that each district allowed her

interest in the subject. It is so fun to

rs. Rhonda Hill is a small-town girl with a big heart for kids. As a child,

the teacher. If she wasn’t playing teacher, she was playing restaurant or hosting dinner parties in her play kitchen. Mrs. Hill has always enjoyed being the host. Fajitas were her favorite thing to cook back in high school. When it came time to enter college, it just seemed natural for her to major in Vocational and Consumer Home

watch students grow over the school year. The students become confident as they prepare for adulthood knowing they are equipped to take care of themselves and others.” Mrs. Hill stated that it is very rewarding when students tell her they landed a part-time job because they applied the knowledge from the job skills

Economics Education. “I was blessed to

unit. It is especially rewarding when

discover my niche early in life.” “And here I

students go into a career related to one

am, completing my 19th year teaching.”

of the subjects she has taught. “Recently,

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• Argyle Insights • Spring / Summer 2019

a former student’s mom told me her son

a Chili Cook-Off for the flavor profile

convenience foods to homemade foods

was now a manager of a cupcake bakery

unit; her students made yogurt in the

as we analyze quality, cost, nutrition,

in Frisco, and that his passion for food

fermentation unit and many other labs

food additives, and preparation time to

started when he took my class. Helping

that connect science to everyday life.

determine which is best.

kids find their passion and the confidence

One of the big questions they investigate

to pursue their dreams is probably the

in Food Science is, “just because we can

most rewarding part of being a Career and

do something with/to food, does it mean

Technology Education teacher,” said Hill.

we should?”

As an elective teacher,

Since Family & Consumer Sciences is part of the Career and Technology Department, Mrs. Hill gets the privilege of helping students learn more about potential career choices. Almost

Mrs. Hill’s classes change

every CTE course includes

as student interests

employability skills. Each class

changes. She has been

develops a specific set of

teaching Money Matters,

hard skills, but all classes

Interior Design, and Fashion

teach students about soft

Design. With the new

employability skills. No

wing addition to the high

matter what a student

school, a food lab was

chooses for a career path,

included in the design

he/she will have learned

which allowed her also

soft skills that will serve

to offer Lifetime Nutrition

him/her well in any career.

& Wellness. The interest in the

Students also gain skills for

food-related course has been

food prep, budgeting, and

overwhelmingly positive.

Next year, Mrs. Hill will be

time management principles

teaching all food-related

which can help them maximize

classes which will continue to

their personal resources as they

include Lifetime Nutrition Wellness

become independent. Even though

with the addition of Food Science and Introduction to Culinary Arts.

The culinary arts pathway courses

Lifetime Nutrition & Wellness students learn how to

teach food preparations skills, resource

prepare foods in each food group with

management, sanitation, and daily

nutrient-retention cooking methods. They

operations of the front and back of the

apply meal appeal and nutrition principles

house. The big PBL in Intro to Culinary

to plan healthy meals. Lab teams

Arts is a Restaurant Design. Students

participate in a PBL where they compare

will design a restaurant along with its

Shark Tank but with food.

Food Science students will learn about the science behind nutrition and food preparation. The class is 40% lab-based, so students will have many opportunities to apply scientific principles learned in class. In the past, Mrs. Hill has done

profession, they all need to eat. After taking food-lab classes, students have skills that can help them eat well while saving time and money as they plan and prepare meals.

Students in the Culinary Arts pathway will obtain their food handler’s license and may go on to obtain a food

menu and promote their idea to culinary professionals. This project is similar to

not all students go into a culinary

Lifetime Nutrition & Wellness students learn how to prepare foods in each food group with nutrientretention cooking methods.

manager’s license.

Possible career choices include personal chef, professional chef, research chef, culinary instructor, food writer, marketing and sales in the food industry, restaurant consultant, restaurant manager, restaurant owner, registered dietician, food scientist, and many more.

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Argyle High School

STUDENT SPOTLIGHTS CAMPBELL WILMOT MY ROLE ON THE TALON STAFF: I am currently the Managing and Social Media Editor for The Talon. In addition to Social Media, I work on and help oversee our broadcast and photography that is published and help produce videos and take photos.

During the 2017 season, I was hired by George Dunham to film the AHS Football games for his producing of an “End of Season” highlight reel for the team’s banquet. This year I continued to film every game in order to put together my own End of Season and highlight videos. At the game against China Springs, I spoke with Mr. Dunham, and he gave me the opportunity to produce a music video for the new song (which is featured in the movie The Last Whistle). The song, “Til the Last Whistle Blows,” co-wrote by Pat Green and George Dunham, and music video was to be aired on Mike-Doocy’s Fox 4 “Free 4 All” the following week. Over the weekend, I was able to take some additional footage of our home stadium and finish producing the video. I am very grateful that I was given the opportunity to not only produce something for my favorite Texas Country Singer/Songwriters, but also to make something that meant a great deal to our entire town. By incorporating some of Annabel Thorpe’s footage from previous seasons, I was able to include a large amount of the people who have been involved in Friday night lights at AHS and have had lots of positive feedback.

Without having joined The Talon during my Freshman year, I never would have received this opportunity. The class, my Editors, and Mrs. Short have taught me countless things about journalism and production over the past three years. The Talon has also brought me to meet

4th Place Broadcast Story of the Year for National Scholastic Press Association Nov 2018 • Grade 11 1st Place in UIL Documentary Film (Local Round) Jan 2019 • Grade 11 1st Place in UIL State Documentary Film Mar 2019 • Grade 11 Honorable Mention Broadcast Story at TAJE Convention Oct 2018 • Grade 11 1st Place in UIL ILPC Sports Broadcast April 2018 • Grade 10 1st Place in UIL ILPC Sports Feature Broadcast April 2018 • Grade 10 2nd Place in UIL ILPC Sports Action Photo April 2018 • Grade 10 Excellent/2nd Place Portrait Photo at JEA Nationals Nov 2017 • Grade 10 Published photos and articles in The Cross Timbers Gazette Newspaper Mar 2018 • Grade 10

the class.

1st Place in UIL Headline Writing at Argyle Invitational Jan 201 • Grade 9

COLLEGE/FUTURE PLANS:

Info provided by Campbell Wilmot

new people and seek opportunities that would have never been available if I had not joined

Although I am not completely sure where I want to attend yet, I have visited the Walter Cronkite School of Journalism at Arizona State, as well as the Moody School at the University of Texas. I know that I want to go into the journalism field, but I am not sure which branch yet.

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• Argyle Insights • Spring / Summer 2019

LAUREN LANDRUM Three years ago, I joined the Talon News. Through the Talon, my interest began with news stories that I reported through broadcast, photography, and videography. During my second year on staff, I began creating documentaries for the UIL Film team. I am honored to have been able to share the stories I did. I have taken home three state titles, including a State Championship this year. The Talon has given me the opportunity to travel around the country to Chicago, New York, and Seattle for journalism conventions – bringing home over 20 awards.

From a reporter to Broadcast Director and then Editor-in-Chief, I have been able to take on a leadership position to the incoming freshmen and teach them the skills involved with journalism. The Young Filmmakers Festival is the UIL State Film contest held at the Paramount Theatre in Austin, Texas. Filmmakers go through five rounds of judging in order to be selected as a state finalist and watch their films on the big screen at the historic theatre. I have been lucky enough to be make it to state three years in a row.

The first film I helped with was called The Hardest Mile. This film is about a girl who was told by countless doctors that she would never walk again, but she proved them wrong. Annabel Thorpe, the director of the film and my Editor-in-Chief at the time, was an incredible journalist who taught me everything I needed about documentary film. The Hardest Mile took second place at the Young Filmmakers UIL State Finals. By my second year on the UIL film team, I had directed, shot, edited, and produced my first solo film. After Hurricane Harvey barreled through South Texas, its destruction left the town of Kingwood underwater. More specifically, Mustang Strong was about the effects Hurricane Harvey had on a South Texas high school baseball team. During the month following Harvey, local communities united to find hope through Kingwood’s new motto: Mustang Strong. This documentary took third place in all of Texas at the Young Filmmakers UIL State Finals.

Although Mustang Strong was eye-opening for me, my final UIL documentary is the most important to me. I have always had a passion for animals and have always known that animals have a healing power. Since animal therapy is so important to me, I knew I wanted to do my documentary about it. Angels of Mercy was created to spread awareness about the impact of animal therapy with mental health as it relates to creating a happier and more healthy life.

Ranch Hand Rescue is a 501 (c) 3 non-profit organization that rescues abused and neglected animals and pairs them with abused and or traumatized victims, including veterans. More and more studies are revealing that there is a direct and beneficial outcome when adding a horse into mental health treatments. As a result, the rate of people seeking help through alternative therapy has been increasing. CEO and founder of Ranch Hand Rescue, Robert (Bob) Williams, and veterans, Paul Cairney and Rachael Wilson, share their stories about turning their darkness into light with the use of equine assisted animal therapy. Veteran, Paul Cairney, shares that seeking out help is not a sign of weakness. Rather, it is a sign of strength and that horses truly are ‘Angels of Mercy.’

Although winning a State Championship for this documentary was a huge reward and honor, seeing the impact that my film made was an even bigger accomplishment. For students who want to become a part of the Talon, and I may be totally biased, I highly recommend it.

Whether you have an interest in writing, media, or public relations, the Talon has a place for you. From 14 staffers my first year to 28 my last year, the Talon has become a larger presence in the community than ever before. It has been rewarding to teach other students about all things journalism and then watch them succeed, and I am eager to see what the Talon staff will accomplish in the next few years.

Info provided by Lauren Landrum

HEATH ROTH

Heath Has 2 State Titles

Heath has been wrestling 12 years, winning his first

3X Regional Champions

match at 5 years old. He practices twice a day, five times

3X District Champions

a week. In addition, he trains in a gym weight lifting/cardio

5X Outstanding Wrestler Awards

seven days a week. He was inspired to wrestle because he

His Record Is 145-2

father wrestled in high school in Ohio. His dad coached both Heath and his older brother Chase, who was also a threetime state champion.

He’s won numerous freestyle, greco, and folk style youth

He Was Undefeated Both His Freshman and Junior Year.

Info provided by Heath Roth

state championships, as well as several judo championships.

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THEATRE WRAP UP Content and photo provided by Mrs. Melissa Toomer

T

he AHS Theatre Department had many

The UIL Theatrical Design Team broke a school record and had nine students

successes this spring, beginning with

the UIL One Act Play. Their production of

District Contest

“Blue Stockings,” based on the true story

Outstanding Crew - Milan McKenna

of the first women fighting to earn the

Honorable Mention All Star Cast: Raleigh

right to graduate from Girton College in Cambridge in 1896, made it to the Area

Turner & Mikayla Simmons All Star Cast: Avery Winter & Gracie Arthur

qualify for the State Contest, which was held April 25 and 26th at the Round Rock Performing Arts Center. Qualifiers included: Gracie Johnson and Lauren Van Zee for Costume Design, Berret

Best Actress: Peyton Deffenbaugh

Buvinghausen & Kate Repp with Make-Up

acting and technical awards. Company

Bi-District Contest

with Set Design, and Group Design Team

members included (pictured left to right,

Outstanding Crew - Milan McKenna

front row) Javy Govea, Ty Smith, Gracie

Best Sound - Ty Smith

Johnson, Izzy Wolfe, Peyton Deffenbaugh,

Honorable Mention All Star - Zack LaCrosse

level of competition and took numerous

Hannah Rettig, (middle row) Gracie Arthur, Mikayla Simmons, Carlin Clark, Kate Repp, Berret Buvinghausen, Avery Winter, Raleigh Turner, Bella Zindel, Kadyn Kozminski,

All Star Cast: Raleigh Turner & Peyton

Make Up design and Berret Buvinghausen

forward to the summer and next season.

Outstanding Crew - Javy Govea Turner & Gracie Arthur

Ramsey, Alex Govea, Grady Henexson,

All Star Cast: Peyton Deffenbaugh

• Argyle Insights • Spring / Summer 2019

State results: Kate Repp 3rd place Hair &

Area Contest

Reeves. (Back Row) Colby Raasch, Blake

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Tatum Earp, and Chase Dillinger. The Final

6th place Hair and Make Up design

Honorable Mention All Star Cast: Raleigh

pictured: Damian Hirschhorn.

was Aidan Monticino, Paige Pakebusch,

Deffenbaugh

Milan McKenna, Zack LaCrosse, and Caden

Jackson Barnes and Will Ramsey. Not

& Hair Design, MacKenzie McCormick

The Theatre Department is already looking They will be hosting their first ever Kids Musical Theatre Camp this summer during July 15th-19th at AHS Auditorium. Students will learn music, choreography, and perform Seussical, Kids on July 19th at 6 p.m. in the AHS Auditorium. Registration information is on Mrs. Toomer’s teacher webpage.

Argyle Majestics Content and photo provided by Mrs. Haley Martinez

Y

our Argyle High School Majestics are always moving, and the Spring time is not an exception for them. From performing every Friday night at football games and appearances throughout the community in the fall, the spring semester is a time that they can continue to dance and bring trophies back to Argyle.

As soon as football season ended, they turned their focus to their competition season. This year they traveled to two local competitions and a national competition. The team and officers brought home many first place trophies and continued to grow throughout the entire season. They were named the

13th best team (out of 50 teams) at the CrowdPleasers Dance Competition this February, beating many dominate and large teams. Along with team and officer routines, they had two solo finalist, Amelia Williams and Zoe Sealy, who both received high honors for their solo. For the first time in Argyle history, our Officers were named Grand Champions!

Their year does not stop there. This May, they will hold their second annual Spring Show titled “Summer Time Fun.” This show will feature not only the Majestics but the AYSA Talonettes, Mini Majestics Participants, High School and Middle School Dance Classes, and Argyle’s

a cappella choir Remedy. There will also be a special combined performance with Remedy and the Majestics.

All throughout this busy year, your majestics have taken it upon themselves to continue to push harder and perfect their craft. Due to this drive and persistence, they continued to grow and make a name for themselves not only in the Argyle community but the drill team community, as well.

Next year, they will have 26 Majestics from 9th to 12th grades strutting on the field for your halftime enjoyment. We cannot wait to have our new members join our family and to introduce them to you.

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TOP 10 SENIORS

TOP ROW- Jacob Morgan, Jack Young, Jacob Bitter, Matthew Darnell, Timothy Davis. BOTTOM ROW- Chloe Kokenes, Kat Ricones, Faith Stapleton, Chloe Livingston, Audrey Livingston Photo by: Lauren Landrum

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• Argyle Insights • Spring / Summer 2019

Photo by Lauren Landrum

Congratulations

We would like to Thank all of our Eagle Partners for supporting our students in Argyle ISD!

District Partners Mathnasium of Denton & DFW Music Academy of Argyle

All students enrolled in the spring will receive a free summer camp! Details coming soon about our summer Musical Theatre and Instrumental Camps!

NOMINATE US! June 12

July 10