AISD Insights Winter 2019

winter 2019Â

Published by

www.Murray-Media.com

The Official Magazine of the Argyle Independent School District

FOCUS ON

EDUCATION DAY

S

chool Priority Month is a public education biennium event where school districts across Texas invite locally elected officials from every level of government to visit and

experience firsthand the great work taking place in our public schools. Argyle ISD took this idea and made it an annual celebration. The purpose behind this event is to foster engagement and promote public schools across Texas, acknowledge a valued partnership with all elected officials of government, local businesses, district supporters and the community. This was the fourth year for this event in the district. We were honored to have State Representative Dr. Lynn Stucky as the keynote speaker on November 15th.

Guests were able to see first hand why Argyle ISD’s Academic and Fine Art programs are so successful. All guests were transported via school bus to Argyle West Elementary, Argyle ISD’s new elementary school. The attendees were given a tour of the new campus and then were escorted back to Argyle Middle School for lunch and awards. We were honored to have over twenty Eagle Partners in attendance along with the AISD School Board, local elected officials and non-profit groups.

...continued on page 39

Winter 2019 • 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 • Winter 2019

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 Advertising Kelly Murray kelly@murray-media.com

A RGY L E H I G H S C H O O L

BAND UPDATES

Read More About Us on Page 31

Pictured on front cover: Top row left to right - Taylor Childress, Abigail Adams, Hannah Fisher • Bottom Row Left to Right - Zackary LaCrosse, Isabel Lechowit, Elizabeth West, Haley Fisher, Carter McNulty

06 A Message from The Superintendent

38 Alumni Bios

08 AEF Puts on a Show at Annual Chili Cookoff and Mac Down

40 Argyle News

42 Giving Back for the Holidays

44 New Year Resolutions

09 Keep Argyle Beautiful Art Contest

12 Local Student Earns Major Role in Hollywood 13 Argyle West Welcome from Principal

15 A Never Happy Story

16 Eagle Partners

46 Greetings from The Hilltop Principal 46 Local Cheerleader Performs at Walt Disney World

47 AISD District Calendar

Photo Pages

20 Argyle Girls Varsity Basketball Ready to Defend Titles

03 Focus on Education Day

10 Homecoming Carnival

22 How to Stay on Task for the New Year

14 Cultures from Around the World at Argyle West

25 A Message from AMS Principal

26 Middle School Band Updates

30 A Day in the Life of Kendall Baker

31 High School Band Updates

34 Argyle Intermediate School Principal

Graphic Designers Alyson Modene Caroline Brock Letters

Argyle ISD News

Production Art Director Lizeth Wallace

16 The Difference Makers

17 Northlake Dentistry Supports Our Students

18 Argyle West Ribbon Cutting

21 District 4A UIL Lone Star Cup

24 Teacher of the Year

35 AHS Principal Update

32 Pink Out 2019

36 High School Sport Schedules

39 Focus on Education Day

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 January 18, 2020.

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

Winter 2019 • Argyle Insights •

5

Afrom Message Dr. Telena Wright, Argyle ISD Superintendent

Transportation Center work will begin in the Summer of 2021. The center can be occupied by Fall 2022.

Future Needs Middle School in Harvest Stadium Technology Transportation Phase 3 HS Bond of 2017 Update $47.15 million issued in 2017 $78 million issued in 2019 Total: $125.15 million issued in first

T

he summer and fall of 2019 have been

included Steele Freeman personnel, Corgan

busy construction times for Argyle ISD.

Architects, AISD Board, AISD administration,

The work at West is nearing completion, and the work at Canyon Falls on Phase II of the high school has begun.

With the completion of the main part of the building, students first occupied West on August 19 for the first day of school.

Once the turf is complete in the courtyard, the library area will be finished and all of the building occupied. The ribbon cutting and dedication will be scheduled once all pieces of the library and courtyard are finished. Everyone in the Argyle community is encouraged to attend the ceremony.

Information will be sent out to the school and community to announce the date.

The building has bright colors with lime green, orange, red, blue, and yellow all being part of the pallet of color in the building.

The colors are carried out in the tile and the carpet. The building includes space for 850 students, music room, art room, STEM classroom, gym, technology lab,

and cafeteria.

HS PHASE II Steele Freeman is the construction

and first responders from Flower Mound.

Phase II will increase the capacity of the building to 1,750 students. A competition gym and auditorium are included in this phase.

Is there a stadium? No, there is not a stadium. The $166,000,000 2017 bond did not include a stadium. By 2023, the Board will be evaluating the need to call a bond that will include a stadium.

Administration Building 2019 There was $5,000,000 allocated in the

will become the high school.

Why? There was not enough bonding capacity to build both phases in 2015-2016.

Steele Freeman received a building

through your vote.

In closing, I’d like to say that we continue to welcome new families into AISD. It is so very important for you to become involved in activities that support our schools, whether that means Watch Dogs, PTA, PTO, Band Boosters, Athletic Boosters, Theatre Boosters, Choir Boosters, Eagle Partner, AEF member, or as a school Board member.

On November 13, we had a special event with featured speaker Lynne

grade center.

Stuckey. This event included Eagle

During the November 2019 to December 2019 time frame, an architect for the administration building will be selected.

The current building has to be vacated to prepare for the renovation and transition to becoming the sixth-grade center.

Design is expected to take a maximum of six months, with construction taking another nine months. The administration building will

partners, the AISD Board, local elected officials, and first responders.

Also, campuses will be placing particular emphasis this year on educating faculty, parents, and students about the hazards of vaping. This is a nationwide health concern about which all schools need to educate all stakeholders.

The third issue of bonds will be sold. These bonds will be used for the third elementary at Canyon Falls and the renovation of the administration building to become a sixth-grade center. Fall 2022 is the earliest completion of the sixth-grade center.

Between June and July 2021, work will begin on a third elementary at Canyon Falls.

The plan is to open Elementary #3 at Canyon

a groundbreaking on October 15, which

Falls by the Fall of 2022 at the earliest.

• Argyle Insights • Winter 2019

school, town, and nation. Your voice is heard

along with AIS will be turned into a sixth-

permit as of October 4, 2019. There was

6

voice heard in elections that impact your

engaged with the community.

there. The current administration building

May/June 2021

middle school facility, and the middle school

to vote so that you are able to have your

Your support is needed to keep the district

be completed in Spring 2021.

school year. The high school will become the

Wherever you live in AISD, please register

There is enough land at Canyon Falls to build

is a 24-month project that will result in the school in August 2021 for the 2021-2022

third issue

2017 bond for an administration building.

manager at risk on the Phase II project. This flipping of the middle school and the high

two issues Remaining $40.85 million for

Dr. Telena Wright Argyle ISD Superintendent

innovation, programming grants, and scholarships that continue to make Argyle the No. 1 place to work, live, play, and send your kids to school.

Many school districts across the state – including right here in Denton County – are supported in various ways by their own non-profit education foundations. Argyle has relied on its Foundation heavily to solicit, manage, and distribute funds used to

puts on

enhance the educational experience of the

a show At Annual Chili Cookoff And Mac Down

students at Argyle ISD not already funded by the district. They generate those financial resources in a variety of ways, including grants, donations, and fundraisers. The fundraisers include everything from back to school events in the fall to online giving campaigns and their wildly-popular annual gala. This year’s gala was held on Feb. 22.

And that’s the tip of the iceberg. The town hasn’t reached its target growth rate

by Steve Gamel

yet, which means so many new families moving to the area still don’t know about the Foundation and how much more can be

T

he Argyle Education Foundation really knows how to put on an event. More importantly, the Argyle community as a whole really knows how to show its support in full force —

especially when it comes to supporting the school district.

The 2nd annual AEF Chili Cookoff and

in a lot of what we do and are consistent.

Mac Down is a perfect example of that.

But when we sat down afterward, we were

The event, which was held on Sept. 21 at

amazed by the new faces and the new

the Unity Park pavilion, raised approximately

support this year.”

$4,500 thanks to the roughly 250 residents

The Chili Cookoff and Mac Down is one

and business sponsors who came out to

of many fundraisers the Argyle Education

enjoy a night of family fun.

Foundation puts on every year. The intent of

done if more people join forces.

The organization recently cut a check to the school district for $168,000, which represents money raised from their annual gala, last year’s cookoff, and other events and donations.

As for this year’s cookoff, it is clearly here to stay. There were kids events such as bounce houses and football, local singers providing entertainment, and a screening of Secret Life of Pets 2 at the end of the evening. The winner of the Chili Cookoff was

keeping this event going was not just to raise

the Argyle United Methodist Church Men’s

a chili competition and a new Mac N

money but also to raise community aware-

Group. The AHS Eagle Foodies won the

Cheese showdown.

ness that AEF is here to stay and committed

Mac N Cheese event, which appears to be a

to supporting its teachers

keeper in terms of competitions

and students.

moving forward.

Naturally, the night was punctuated by

“They say it takes about three years for an event to really get going, but this was a lot of fun, and a lot of people showed up,” AEF

Since 2003, the Foundation, which is

“It was a full, fun evening for families

official Michael Pritschow said. “What I really

composed of business, community, and

and kiddos,” Pritschow said. “Substantially

thought was cool was all the new faces.

neighborhood volunteers, has contributed

more people showed up this year as

With the education foundation, we have our

more than $1.2 million to Argyle ISD to

opposed to last year, and that was

standard group of supporters who take part

support and offset expenses for teacher

great to see.”

8

• Argyle Insights • Winter 2019

Keep Argyle Beautiful

Art Contest

T

hank you to the AISD School Board and

their artwork made into this beautiful

with us and taking the time to encourage

Superintendent for allowing Keep Argyle

canvas made by Keep Argyle Beautiful. It

and explain this contest. And thank you to

Beautiful to come to publicly recognize

can be hung in their home to treasure for

the students for thinking about what Litter

several Argyle students and art teachers for

years to come.

Prevention looks like to you and drawing

their participation in the 2019 “Don’t Mess

From Hilltop Elementary:

your vision. We hope that you will all enter

1st: Jemma Barnes 2nd grade

again next year!

With Texas Art Contest.”

Every year in February, the Texas Department of Transportation along with the “Don’t Mess With Texas” organization opens up a “Litter Prevention” themed Art Contest to students in Kindergarten through 12th

Runners Up: Jocelyn Rogers & Evangeline Edmonson (both in 3rd) Mrs Ruestman-Art Teacher (gift certificate)

Free 2020 Calendars will be available in Argyle soon.

Please follow Keep Argyle Beautiful on Facebook, Instagram, and Twitter for photos from our Argyle Students, state-wide

grade. Twelve winners are selected to appear

From Argyle Middle School:

on the yearly calendar and also receive a

Art Teacher Mrs Lyle

details about what Keep Argyle Beautiful has

2nd and 3rd Place Winners Runners Up:

planned in the community next. It’s going to

Chloe Blue & Sydney Payne (both in 7th)

be GOOD!

$100 Gift Certificate.

We at Keep Argyle Beautiful KNOW that we have very artistic students in our community and decided that we would contact the

First Place Winner: Meleal Reivitt (8th grade)

art teachers to partner with us to send in

From Argyle High School:

some entries.

Art Teacher Mrs Tonya Kosla

We made posters for the schools and posted on social media. And with the help of the teachers, we collected 44 entries that were mailed to Austin to be judged.

Though none of our entries were chosen to appear on the 2020 Calendar, we already

winners on the calendar, and to get more

2nd and 3rd place winners Runners Up: Samantha Foster (9th) and Rylie Folmer (12th) First Prize Winner Ella Rader (9th) Thank you again teachers for partnering

had chosen “Local Winners” from Argyle to recognize and award.

So without further ado, we’d like to recognize the following students and teachers with these awards: Bahama Bucks owned by Argyle residents and Eagle Parents Jared and Cindy Rosckes located on 407 in Copper Canyon was happy to supply prizes to ALL of the winners.

The three FIRST PRIZE winners receive this (SHOW) very special bag from Bahama Bucks. We thank them for their support for our community!

The three First Place winners also receive

photos courtesy of Kathy Salisbury

Winter 2019 • Argyle Insights •

9

HOMECOMING

CARNIVAL

10

• Argyle Insights • Winter 2019

Winter 2019 • Argyle Insights •

11

He added, “There were far too many

Local Student Earns

major

role

in Hollywood

by Steve Gamel

T

feeling working with people

thought was his new life in college. Now, he

that I have grown up watching,”

has a lead role in an upcoming major motion

Slade said. “It isn’t just working

picture alongside some big-name

with them that can feel bizarre

Hollywood actors.

or unreal. Waking up every

hree months ago, Slade Monroe was unpacking bags and settling into what he

Slade, who graduated from Argyle High

“I must say, it is a very strange

morning and having normal

emotions to count when I found out I got the part. Excitement was among the largest, of course.”

He first became interested in acting at the age of 10. His mother immediately enrolled him in Cathryn Sullivan’s Acting for Film Studio in Lewisville. He spent the next several years honing his craft and studying all aspects of film while also taking on lead roles in the Argyle theater department.

A few of those roles include Grease the Musical, Murder at the Malt Shop, and Paragon Springs.

He proved to be a quick study while at Cathryn Sullivan and completed every level of training possible. He earned the attention of the Kim Dawson Agency, which represents him and helped get him the initial audition for 12 Mighty Orphans.

Production for the film is ongoing at various sites throughout Fort Worth and Weatherford. An official release date has yet to be announced.

“I take a lot of pride in my craft, and if I can live happily

conversations and eating lunch

Wheatie, the quarterback of the Mighty Mites

with these veteran actors who

football team, in the upcoming film 12 Mighty

have far more experience than I

Orphans. The Ty Roberts-directed drama is

do has this surrealness about it.

based on the popular novel by Jim Dent. It is

I get to see the side most other

a true story of a group of Fort Worth orphans

people don’t which took a lot

out from in front of the camera

who compete for a state championship and

of getting used to. At this point,

and instead get behind it. I do

manage to rally a broken nation during the

it is easy for me to snap out of

see myself being a producer or

height of the Great Depression.

awestruck attitude I had my first

director in the future. But until

Also starring in the film are Luke Wilson, Martin Sheen, and Robert Duvall.

12

• Argyle Insights • Winter 2019

through it than I will give everything in my power to do so,” Slade said. “Who knows, maybe I will eventually move

week on set, but I must admit that I still do

then, I am going to ride this wave as long as I

get mesmerized.”

can and share my passion with the world.”

photo provided by Kathleen Monroe

School last year, will make his film debut as

Argyle W est

W elcome from the Principal

W

ow! We have made it through the first semester and before we know

We also want to thank all of our parents for the support, encouragement, and

been fantastic in helping to develop some unique and engaging activities for our families. Stay tuned for more information regarding those things.

I look forward to getting to know all our students and families. That is my goal, to know each student by name. With over 740 students that is a daunting goal, but one I hope to achieve by the end of the year. If you see me out in the community, please feel free to stop me, introduce yourself, and tell me your student’s name. We are

it, it will be Christmas break. I guess the

patience as we’ve had to work out some

saying is accurate, “Time sure flies when

kinks in procedures since we are new to how

partners in this adventure we call education.

you’re having fun!” It has been a great

events will run on our campus. This year is

Whatever we need to do to help your child

beginning in our new building thanks to the hard work and dedication of our staff, parents, community members, and PTA volunteers. We have the best PTA and they are committed to providing us with everything we need to make AWE so successful. They have

I look forward to getting to know all our students and families

spoiled us this year with

a year of trial and error.

We will try something

be successful is our top priority.

Please know that you are always welcome

and see how it works and

to call or email if you have a question or

then tweak it for next year

concern. I want to wish everyone a Merry

if needed. We want to

Christmas and Happy New Year! I hope all

make sure that students,

of us take a moment to reflect on our many

staff, and parents are safe

blessings. I know that I have definitely been

at all times, but also feel welcomed and at home.

With a new school comes the opportunity to build a new culture and

blessed to be a part of a wonderful school community. I look forward to wrapping up 2019 and starting the New Year together!

With many thanks,

delicious snacks, luncheons and gifts. We

traditions. I realize that many of you came

truly appreciate them and their tireless

from Hilltop and AIS where there were

dedication to our school. We hope to

things that traditionally took place. However,

have a ribbon-cutting for the community

we are establishing our own identity and

Funderburg

to tour our beautiful building as soon as it

traditions and while some things may be

Argyle West

is completed. We are very close to having

similar, we won’t do the same things as the

Elementary

the library done and ready for books to be

other schools. This is our time to come up

Principal

on the shelves.

with our own new and fun ideas. PTA has

Renee

Winter 2019 • Argyle Insights •

13

Cultures From Around the World at Argyle West Elementary School

14

• Argyle Insights • Winter 2019

A NEVER

HAPPY STORY

by Brooke Ezzo

A

typical summer in Texas for kids might

day in the woods when something happens,

the idea for her a short story and the writing

look like days at the neighborhood pool,

and they are forced to solve a mystery to

was all Violet. She even helped format the

riding bikes along the sidewalks, or when

save their family. Will they stick together or

story so the Kindle publishers could take it

it’s too hot outside playing video games in

fall apart? You will have to read it to find out!

to print.

the air-conditioned house.

But, for Argyle Intermediate School student Violet Siewert, this past summer was spent creating her first literary masterpiece.

Violet has always wanted to write books and screenplays, and it’s something she is very excited to do. At only ten years old and in the fifth

Violet hopes people enjoy her story and realize there are a lot of kids out there just like her who love being creative.

grade, she has become a published author.

The idea for A Never Happy Story was

When asked how she felt about

Violet hopes people enjoy her story and

having her first book published,

realize there are a lot of kids out there just

Violet said it makes her feel

like her who love being creative. She wants

happy, excited, and smart.

others to embrace that creativity and create

“I plan on writing many stories

age. Because not many people can call

one,” exclaimed Violet.

themselves published authors, especially not

Following in the footsteps of her father and grandparents, Violet’s passion for writing is in her genes. Her grandparents are

books through Kindle Direct Publishing.

“Drama Drama” that she wanted to have as

use of quotation marks and introducing

a screenplay. With her father’s help, they

characters.” Although her father helped her

decided to break it up into a series of short

with the edits,

photo courtesy Chad Siewert

edit it,” Chad said. “Teaching her the proper

The story tells a tale of three

on Amazon!

“Once she typed up the story, I helped her

completed. She started with a story called

children who are out for a fun

You can find Violet’s short story

mother was once a magazine editor. Her

in Florida and she worked on and off

many short stories to come.

Siewert, and she has a story to tell!

ther has done screenplays, and her grandfather, Chad Siewert has published several

stories. A Never Happy Story is her first of

many ten-year-olds. Well, maybe one. Violet

published authors; her grandfa-

born while on vacation with her family during the summer until the final draft was

spaces for literary outlets no matter a child’s

based on the characters in this

Winter 2019 • Argyle Insights •

15

The Difference Makers in Argyle ISD

Mrs. Sutton

Mrs. Warden

High School Award Recipients sponsored by: Kim Reding with Magnolia Realty in Argyle. Argyle Middle School recipients sponsored by: Kimberly Boales - Impact Group - Keller Wiliams in Southlake

EAGLE

PARTNERS

Mrs. Ray

16

• Argyle Insights • Winter 2019

Mrs. Lumsden

Northlake

Dentistry Supports our Students A

ISD District Level Eagle Partners - Northlake Dentistry held a presentation at Argyle Intermediate School this fall. They taught the students about dental care and brought toothbrushes for all of them. The students enjoyed the fun presentation and learning more about Dentistry.

Winter 2019 • Argyle Insights •

17

ARGYLE WEST

Ribbon

Cutting

18

• Argyle Insights • Winter 2019

Winter 2019 • Argyle Insights •

19

O T Y D A RE

D N E F E D

S E L T I T

by Steve Gamel

Standifer returns from a knee injury and has

T

he Argyle girls basketball team has made winning five straight Class 4A state

championships look automatic. And they have a chance of winning a sixth this year, provided that they continue to heed one specific message from head coach Chance

them hold their own against teams in higher

already created a once-in-a-generation duo

classifications in an attempt to work out any

few teams will be able to match up with

kinks and be battle-tested by the time the

moving forward.

District 8-4A opener against Bridgeport rolls around on Jan. 10.

be content.

“When we got back to the state tournament last March, that’s all we were talking about. We had a fabulous year, and we have a lot to look forward to next

we have a target on us.

year. But the main thing is you can’t be content,” Westmoreland said.

“Every team out there is trying to get better, and we have a target on us. We have to put in the work to be even better than what we were last year.”

He added, “Every year is different. You can’t say [winning state] is a guarantee, because it’s not.”

So far, so good, though. The bulk of the Lady Eagles’ nondistrict schedule has seen 20

• Argyle Insights • Winter 2019

MVP of the 2018 title game before missing

When Westmoreland used this scheduling

Westmoreland: Don’t

Standifer, a Clemson commit, was the all of last season. In her absence, McKinney

tactic last year, his girls had

averaged 23.9 points, 2.2 assists, and 2.9

seen and experienced it all

steals per game and was the District 8-4A

by the time they started

MVP while leading Argyle to a 32-7 record.

playing teams in their own class, and they didn’t lose another game.

This included a playoff run in which they beat each of the state’s four top-ranked teams to close

out the year (No. 1 Canyon, No. 2 Levelland, No. 4 Dallas Lincoln, and No. 3 Hardin-Jefferson). Perhaps the most impressive of

Brooklyn Carl, Kiley Lavelle, Abby Williams, and Bailey Timmons add to that firepower.

Shelby Henches, a 6-foot-2-inch move-in from Pennsylvania, is quickly making a name for herself, too.

“We had to slow the game down a lot last year because we didn’t have a lot of vup while also playing a lot more kids — and I think that will wear a lot of teams

those wins was over Joe Lombard’s Canyon

down,” Westmoreland said. “The good

squad. Lombard has won 19 state titles

news is that we have great girls who are

during his more than 40-year career.

unselfish and want to find ways to attack

The scary part is that winning a sixth

the basket and find the open person. If we

straight state title isn’t just big talk. Not

play like that, we’re going to find ways to

only is Rhyle McKinney back, but Sydney

get everyone involved.”

District

4A UIL LONE STAR

Cup

Argyle High School was awarded their tenth total and eighth consecutive UIL Lone Star Cup this fall.

Winter 2019 • Argyle Insights •

21

How to Stay on Fortask The

New Year

22

• Argyle Insights • Winter 2019

I

f your to-do list is never-ending these days, you’re not alone. From work assignments

and client meetings to shuffling the kiddos to baseball practice, doctor’s appointments, or piano lessons, there’s always something keeping us busy. And just when we knock a few things off the list and feel a sense of accomplishment, five or six more tasks quickly take their place.

Adulting is difficult. That’s why it’s more important now than ever to have a trusty tool to help us manage our personal schedules, time, and activities. Doing so eliminates guesswork, keeps us on task, and tells us where to be and when.

But what’s the best option for you as we approach the New Year?

USE A CALENDAR There was once a less frantic time in all of our lives when we didn’t need a calendar and were okay with flying by the seat of our pants. We could get by with mental notes and snickered at those who couldn’t. Things are different now, and calendars are the perfect remedy to stay on task of all our professional, personal, and family commitments.

Here are a few types to consider: Electronic or online calendar — Digital calendars are portable and can easily be backed up and accessed on multiple devices.

This means you can schedule a meeting or appointment between tasks using your phone without having to worry about carrying around additional items all day. Everyone has their cell phone on them, so it just makes sense. Digital calendars are also better if you want to create recurring events, block out time in your day well in advance, and even share your schedule with an assistant or family member. Plus, you can set notification alerts as reminders.

Paper calendar — If the digital age isn’t quite your thing and you want something tangible, there are still desk calendars, calendars you place on the refrigerator door, and even pocket calendars that allow you to accomplish many of the same things that digital calendars do. This will require more manual work, and there’s no backup if you lose it. But a few reasons why some people prefer paper or physical calendars is that they can remember tasks better simply by writing them down. A paper calendar is also great for a quick visual reminder rather than unlocking your phone and going to a specific app.

U S E A D AY PLANNER

U S E TO - D O LISTS

Day planners are a step above a traditional

CALENDAR

paper calendar, day planner, or a combina-

benefits and features of a digital calendar.

tion of all three, there is something about

Perhaps more enticing is that they allow you to create a system that works for you.

There are day planners out there for every organizational style, from at-a-glance daily and weekly appointment books to goal-setting diaries, planner-organizer combo sets, and everything in between. Here are just a few things you can keep track of with a

DAY PLANNER

Even if you prefer using a digital calendar,

paper calendar and mirror many of the

creating a to-do list on a notepad or using a smartphone app like Evernote. Creating a to-do list right at the beginning of your day or the night before creates structure for your day. It also gives you a sense of accomplishment as you’re able to cross off completed items as the minutes and hours pass by.

day planner.

Some people only make to-do lists for the

•

Setting annual goals

day while others create longer ones for busy

•

Monthly overviews

•

Weekly tasks

•

Daily logs

•

Meal and workout plans

•

Shopping lists and household tasks

weekends or an entire work week. Additional benefits include: •

Prioritization

•

Relieving stress

•

Less to keep in your head

It’s important to remember that regardless of which option you choose, none of them will be effective if you don’t consistently incorporate them into your daily and weekly schedules.

TO-DO LIST

Choose an option (or several) that works best for you, and then stick to it.

Winter 2019 • Argyle Insights •

23

M

rs. Jeanna Sutton was surprised in her classroom at the end of last school year. The Argyle Education Foundation awarded her with the Lisa M. Z. Endowment Award.

She was awarded the Golden Eagle Teacher of the Year Award for Argyle ISD 2018 - 2019. Mrs. Sutton teaches Student Leadership and English I. She is the sponsor for the AHS Rotary - Interact and The AHS Challenge Day Club.

24

• Argyle Insights • Winter 2019

A Message From AMS Principal

T

Mr. Gibson

he most frequently asked question

existing middle school band hall will be

The football field we had been using

regarding this school year has to

incorporated into the expansion of this

has been dug up and that dirt is being

fine arts section.

used in other parts of the construction.

do with the construction around our building. Let me take a moment and

The area next to the administration

give you some updates

wing of the building will be

from our perspective at the

an addition of counseling

middle school.

The current school configuration will stay through the 20-21 school year. The fall of 2021 will bring many changes as the middle school moves to the current high school and the high school takes

Operating a school during this time brings challenges but we are all keeping a positive attitude

over the building in Canyon

offices and special education classrooms. This addition is necessary with

our middle school to use those fields for football practice in our final year in this building next year. A turfed field will be made but NO stadium was on the bond

will be serving.

package that is phase two of this building.

Behind the school there

Operating a school during this time

has been much dirt work to

brings challenges but we are all keeping a

prepare for the additional

positive attitude and keeping in mind how

classroom wing, high school student parking and a

fieldhouse. The classroom addition will

of construction. So what is happening

be similar to the current wing with the

outside our building right now?

greenhouse staying between these

dug in front of the school. This area

softball field will be made in time for

the number of students we

Falls after the completion of phase 2

Work initially began with piers being

For example, a practice baseball and

two spokes.

Our current middle school has two

will be a fine arts expansion to include

gyms but no competition gym suitable for

an auditorium that seats over 800. A

a high school. This new gymnasium will

black box, theatre classroom, technical

be built adjacent to our current gym and

theatre room, and dressing rooms also

a wrestling room as well. The school will

make up this section of the school. Band

have eight tennis courts and our band will

will have a new hall as will choir. The

have a paved marching practice area.

great our facilities will be throughout the district once this project is completed.

Scott Gibson Principal Argyle Middle School 940.246.2126 Ext. 3002

Winter 2019 • Argyle Insights •

25

L O O H SC E L D MID

s e t a d Up

Kendra Scott Pop Up shop At our Winter Concert on December 9th, we will bring the Kendra Scott store to you! Teachers receive a 15% discount!

National Recognition The Argyle Middle School Honor Winds were selected as a Commended Winner in the Mark of Excellence National Wind Band Honors. The Mark of Excellence is a national music competition that honors music programs and their ensembles for high standards in performance. The ensembles are judged by nationally respected adjudicators from colleges and universities around the country. 278 entries were submitted from 38 different states and the Argyle Middle School Honor Winds were selected for this award! This is a HUGE honor and is attributed to the hard work of the students and parents involved!

26

• Argyle Insights • Winter 2019

Beginner Band World Premiere!

Over 120 beginner band students performed their World Premiere on October 30th.

These students demonstrated what they have learned so far and did an excellent job!

Upcoming Events The Argyle Middle School Band has a number of upcoming events. These events can be found at www.argyleband.org and we would love to see you at one of our upcoming events or performances!

Pep Rallies and Social Events!

The Argyle Band has performed at a number of MS pep rallies, as well as fun social events at Andy B’s, Medieval Times and AT&T Stadium!

Be a part of the Band!

In addition to the social events and musical concepts students will learn band, students will strengthen a number of character traits that will lead them to success in the classroom, on the field or in the gym. There is a place for everybody in band! We will begin to test current 5th graders on instruments around spring break, and we want you to be a part of it!

Questions?

If you have any questions about the Argyle Middle School Band feel free to contact Mr. Fletcher at any time!

Evan Fletcher, Director of Bands at Argyle Middle School 940-246-2126 ext. 3103 • efletcher@argyleisd.com • www.argyleband.org

Winter 2019 • Argyle Insights •

27

28

• Argyle Insights • Winter 2019 2019

Winter 2019 • Argyle Insights •

29

A D ay in the L ife of

Kendall Baker

Photos and info provided by Kendall Baker

K

endall Baker is an eighth grader at

days she spent there, she was able to sit

Argyle Middle School. She is involved

on the field during an Aggie Football Game

she said her mom. She said her mom is

in basketball, track, FCA and church. She

and was able to meet some of the college

strong and is her biggest fan. She also

really enjoys athletics in school. Even though

athletes that also have Type I Diabetes.

said that her brother and her entire family

Kendall is a very active and talented student,

Kendall hopes that the documentary

inspires her to be a better person.

she does deal with challenges on a daily

she filmed will bring awareness to Type I

basis. Kendall is constantly monitoring her

Diabetes and charities.

blood sugar and correcting her highs and lows. She isn’t able to spend the night at friends houses because she is having to be really careful with her blood sugar levels.

A normal day for Kendall would involve her having to take six to eight shots. Type I Diabetes does have its challenges. Even though it takes Kendall a little longer than the other athletes to get ready for sports, she always stays positive and works hard.

Kendall hopes to relay that diabetes does not define who she is. She sees it as an obstacle that she can face. “You can still be anything you want to be.” “Follow your dreams no matter what you face in life.” ‘Be strong, be positive, patient and love big.” ‘God will not give you something you can’t handle.”

This fall Kendall was asked to be an Aggie for a day at Texas A&M. The Aggie for a Day program is made possible by funding from the company Pederson’s Farm. They have teamed up with Texas A&M to raise money and awareness for Type I Diabetes.

Pederson’s Farm raises over $100,000 a year. Kendall was chosen to appear in a documentary about this program. She spent three days in College Station while being filmed for the documentary. During the three

30

• Argyle Insights • Winter 2019

When asked who she admires the most

OL

CHO S H HIG

tes a d p U Community performance To finish the fantastic season, the Argyle High School Marching Band performed “Into the Light” one final time.

ATSSB All-Region Band Competition Seventy-five Argyle High School band students will be competing in All-Region Band auditions on December 7th. Students who finish at the top of the competition will advance to the All-Area auditions on January AHS Band Update

11th, which could ultimately lead to a spot in

The Argyle High School Marching Band had a successful and competitive season!

the All-State Band.

HEB Marching Contest - Swept all classification captions including Best in Class, outstanding percussion, outstanding visual, outstanding color guard, and outstanding effect.

Sound of Springtown Marching Contest - Overall Grand Champion, winning outstanding percussion, outstanding music, and outstanding visual.

UIL Region 2 Marching Contest - Awarded a Superior Rating for the 18th year in a row.

Texas State Honor Band Competition Every other year, opposite of State Marching Contest, the Texas Music

Want to join band or color guard?

We are always looking for new students in the band and guard. No experience is necessary to join color guard; however, previous experience is essential to join a wind or percussion section.

Many students join the band through our color guard. The color guard is a dance organization that spins flags and portrays the music with dance and color at halftime and competitions. In 2020, we are wanting to add many more members to the color guard to compete for the State Championship.

If you are interested in joining band or guard, please contact Mr. Bird at jbird@argyleisd.com.

Educators Association hosts a competition that focuses on concert band. The Argyle High School Wind Ensemble was named the 3A honor band in 2008 and the 2A honor band in 2006.

Schools will record four concerts and submit their best performance. These recordings go through “playoff-like” rounds. At each round, judges will rank and advance the top two ensembles through the process until a winner is decided. The

U p co m i n g H i g h S c h ool Band Competi tions

winner will perform a concert at the Texas

December 10th - Winter Concert

Music Educators Association Conference in

January 11th - ATSSB All-Area Auditions January 16th and 17th - ATSSB All-Region Band Concert

February 11th-15h - TMEA/ATSSB All-State Band Clinics and Concert in San Antonio

February of 2021.

The Argyle High School Wind Ensemble will be preparing for their recordings this Spring to submit into the competition.

Winter 2019 • Argyle Insights •

31

2019

Pink OUT 32

• Argyle Insights • Winter 2019

Winter 2019 • Argyle Insights •

33

Argyle Intermediate School

PRINCIPAL

A

t AIS, we achieve, inspire, and soar! I say

Club, Coding Club, and STEM Club. The UIL

and grow. Each class voted on a student

this everyday during announcements

competitive season has started practices

leader to represent them. These 14 students

as a reminder to students of the high

as well. They will compete in January in 12

attended a one-day leadership academy and

expectations in place for them. We instill

different areas. Not only do we want our

the meaning of this motto through our

meet monthly to discuss how to be positive

students achieving academically, but we

goals and actions. Our House program has

promote achievement in other areas such

leaders. We look forward to continued

been a fun way for us to recognize student

as drama, foreign language, sports, and

accomplishments and add a little competitive

community service. Students can participate

fun to our daily routines. Every Monday, it

in our on-campus after school activities

is always exciting for students to see which

such as Drama Kids, Sarah’s Spanish School

House flags are flying to show who is in the

(coming in January), Archery, and Scouts.

lead! As part of Amistad, I can’t help but

AIS students inspire those around them

growth this school as we monitor benchmark assessments, curriculum- based assessments (CBAs), and STAAR test results.

AIS is a great place to work, learn and grow. I am always available to hear your ideas on how we can improve. Thank you for

to be their best. We promote positive

sharing your amazing children with us at AIS.

AIS students achieve not only through

character and inclusive practices. We teach

We are proud to be part of this district and

rigorous curriculum and instruction, but also

the importance of including others through

community and we look forward to another

through the educational fields and clubs.

classroom stories and individual recognition

outstanding quarter.

The fourth grade has attended the Fort

on our Growing Leaders Tree. The TAO Club,

Worth Zoo and looks forward to Forest

Think About Others, meets monthly and

Glen in May. The fifth grade attended the

chooses ways to give back to those in need

Water Works science-based trip to Waco.

in our school and community. We participate

The Ross Perot Museum will be presenting

in the high school PALS program to plant the

Superhero Science to our students in

seed of inspiring others that can continue in

January as another way to experience hands

high school. During daily morning meetings,

on learning. AIS staff members host weekly

students have the opportunity to share

clubs for all students as a way to focus on

personal stories and comments to inspire

other areas of achievement. Club choices

their classmates to be their best.

hope to see red flags flying!

include: Music Club, Art Smart Club, Book

34

• Argyle Insights • Winter 2019

Our students at AIS amaze us as they soar

Dr. Dawn Jordan, Principal

AHS Principal Update

Mr. John King P

arents and Students:

week. Our volleyball team won the district

Good luck to all of our teams and coaches

Our fall semester for the 2019-20

championship and is poised for a deep

as playoffs begin and new seasons start.

school year is quickly coming to an end.

playoff run, and both our boys’ and girls’

We are proud of all of you and your

It seems like just yesterday that we were

basketball teams are ranked in the top 5 in

outstanding accomplishments!

beginning the new school year, and now final

the state in the pre-season polls. And, our

As we near the holiday season, I wish a

exams are just around the corner. Let me

team tennis team advanced to the regional

happy and restful time to everyone. Enjoy

encourage you to finish out this semester

finals for the first time in school history.

a little down time as we prepare for a very

strong. I have always followed

As we near

the advice of the author who said – “Don’t waste a lot of hard work by failing to do just

the holiday season,

a little bit more hard work.” An investment of time now can certainly pay huge dividends in

I wish a happy and

the near future.

restful

Our extracurricular activities and events are having great success this

time to everyone.

year. Our football team is still undefeated and currently ranked #1 in the state in Class 4A. They will begin their playoff run toward another state championship very soon. Our girls’ cross country team is having unprecedented success as they have advanced as a team to the Class 4A State Meet in Round Rock this

What an accomplishment! We

busy and exciting spring semester. As always,

are very proud of all of our

I want you to know that my door is open

sports teams and their amazing

to the entire community at any time that I

coaches. On the fine arts side,

can be of assistance. Thank you for allowing

our outstanding band put on

me the opportunity to work with such an

an absolutely amazing show

amazing group of students, faculty, and staff.

this year and captured best

Go Eagles!

performance in the majority of their competitions. Our choir program is soaring to new heights as well as they had a record number of students qualify for the all-region

choir this year. Our theatre department is preparing for the spring musical, and you

Mr. John King Principal Argyle High School

will definitely want to make plans to see this performance. Finally, on our academic front, our UIL teams have already begun competitions and look as strong as ever.

Winter 2019 • Argyle Insights •

35

HIGH SCHOOL

SPORTS Schedules

SOCCER Lady Eagles DATE OPPONENT

V JV

DATE OPPONENT

TIME

DEC 17

@ Liberty Christian Scrimmage

7:00

5:30

DEC 30

@ Alvarado Quad Scrimmage

TBA

DEC 27

@ Northwest HS Scrimmage

2:30

1:00

JAN 2-4

@ Princeton Tournament

TBA

DEC 30

vs Denton Braswell HW

12:30

11:00

JAN 7

@ Castleberry

TBA

JAN 3-4

@ Kennedale Tournament

TBA

JAN 16-18

@ Alvarado Tournament

TBA

JAN 6

vs Molina HS

JAN 24

@ Celina

6:30

JAN 9-11

@ Midlothian Heritage Tournament

JAN 28

vs Alvarado

7:00

JAN 14

@ Boswell HS

JAN 31

vs Gainesville

7:00

JAN 16-18

@ Highway 5 Tournament

TBA

FEB 3

@ Anna

7:15

JAN 24

@ Celina HS

5:30

FEB 7

v Melissa

7:30

JAN 28

vs Alvarado HS

5:00

District 5-4A

JAN 31

vs Gainesville HS

5:30

4:00

FEB 14

vs Decatur

7:30

FEB 3

@ Anna HS

5:30

4:00

FEB 18

@ Bridgeport

7:30

FEB 7

vs Melissa HS

6:00

4:30

FEB 21

vs Springtown

7:30

FEB 25

@ Decatur

7:30

5:00

TBA 4:30

District 7-4A FEB 14

vs Decatur HS

5:30

4:00

FEB 28

vs Bridgeport

7:30

FEB 18

@ Bridgeport HS

5:30

4:00

MAR 3

@ Springtown

7:30

FEB 21

vs Springtown HS

5:30

4:00

MAR 6

vs Decatur

7:30

FEB 25

@ Decatur HS

5:30

4:00

MAR 13

@ Bridgeport

7:30

FEB 28

vs Bridgeport HS

5:30

4:00

MAR 17

vs Springtown

7:30

MAR 3

@ Springtown HS

5:30

4:00

MAR 6

vs Decatur HS

5:30

4:00

MAR 13

@ Bridgeport

5:30

4:00

MAR 17

@ Springtown HS

5:30

4:00

36

• Argyle Insights • Winter 2019

More sport Schedules are available at www.argyleisd.com

BASKETBALL

WRESTLING

DATE

OPPONENT

9TH JV

VAR

DEC 20

vs Midlothian Heritage

4:00

5:30

DEC 27-28

Whataburger Tournament

TBA

DEC 27-28

@ Braswell Tournament

DEC 31

vs Graford

1:00

2:15

JAN 7

@ Ranchview

6:15

5:00

7:30

JAN 10

@ Bowie

4:30

5:45

7:00

JAN 14

@ Faith Family (Oak Cliff)

5:00

6:15

7:30

JAN 17

@ Springtown

6:15

5:00

7:30

JAN 21

vs Krum

6:15

5:00

7:30

JAN 24

@ Decatur

6:15

5:00

7:30

JAN 28

@ Bridgeport

6:15

5:00

7:30

JAN 31

OPEN

FEB 4

vs Springtown

6:15

5:00

7:30

FEB 7

@ Krum

6:15

5:00

7:30

FEB 11

vs Decatur

6:15

5:00

7:30

FEB 14

vs Bridgeport

5:00

6:15

7:30

FEB 18

OPEN

TBA

TBA

DISTRICT 8-4A

DEC 21 WYLIE INVITATIONAL @ Wylie HS • JV/V at 9am JAN 3-4 GRAPEVINE DUALS @ Grapevine HS • V at 9am JAN 10-11 TROJAN CLASSIC @ Trinity HS • V at 10am Jan 10 JV/V at 8:30am Jan 11 JAN 18 STATE DUALS @ Canyon Randall HS • V at TBA JAN 23 JJ PEARCE / ROOSEVELT @ Argyle HS JV/V at 6pm JAN 24-25 COYOTE CLASSIC @ Frisco Heritage HS • JV at 9am & V at 8:30am JAN 28 SPRINGTOWN (SENIOR NIGHT) @ Argyle HS • JV/V at 6pm

Lady Eagles DATE

OPPONENT

9TH JV

DEC 19-21

@ KSA Classic Tournament (Orlando)

TBA

DEC 31

vs Dodd City

1:00

JAN 2

@ Lewisville

10:0

11:30

JAN 3

@ South Oak Cliff

6:00

7:30

JAN 7

@ Ranchview

5:00

6:15

JAN 11

@ Krum 9th Grade Tournament

TBA

JAN 10

vs Bridgeport

5:00

5:00

6:15

JAN 14

BYE

JAN 17

@ Springtown

7:30

5:00

6:15

JAN 21

vs Krum

7:30

5:00

6:15

JAN 24

@ Decatur

7:30

5:00

6:15

JAN 28

@ Bridgeport

7:30

5:00

6:15

JAN 31

BYE

FEB 4

vs Springtown

7:30

5:00

6:15

FEB 7

@ Krum

7:30

5:00

6:15

FEB 11

vs Decatur

7:30

5:00

6:15

10:00

VAR

DISTRICT 8-4A

FEB 7 DISTRICT @ Grapevine HS • V at 9am FEB 14-15 REGIONAL CHAMPIONSHIP @ Independence HS • V at 9am Feb 14 & 9:30am Feb 15 FEB 21-22 STATE CHAMPIONSHIPS @ Berry Center • V at 9am Feb 21 & 8:30am Feb 22

Winter 2019 • Argyle Insights •

37

ALUMNI BIOS Information by: Gracie Williams • Articles by: Jaclyn Harris

Thorpe also serves as a journalism ambassador for the university, which involves a number of activities geared toward introducing prospective students to the journalism school.

“I do tours, I meet with prospective

KTJ and Carly Haynes Katie and Carly Haynes graduated from Argyle High School last year, and moved to

students should stay focused on their end goals. “[Life] may get tough, it’s important to

Los Angeles to work in the film and music

always remember your end goal in mind

industry after graduation. They released

as you work hard, and surround yourself

their debut single “On Your Mind” on July

around supportive and real people, and

19, 2019 and released their newest single

most especially, figure out time management

“Moonlight” on October 30.

before you go.”

“We are constantly

They are now working

working outside of the music

toward scoring and

itself,” Carly said. “whether

composing a feature length

that be photo shoots,

film called “God Save the

producing sessions, writing

Queens.” They also plan to

sessions, rehearsals,

continue to release music in

[or] shows.”

the upcoming months.

During their time in

“Our future goals are to

Argyle, the two participated

continue to consistently be

in theater, each playing a

releasing singles, release

lead role sometime during their high school career. Katie cited a number of teachers that helped her grow during her high school years.

“Classes that changed my perspective for the better in high school would definitely be Theatre with Mrs. Toomer and Mrs. Reynolds, Independent Music Study, Special Topics with Mrs. Romero, and especially Band with Mr. Lemish,” Katie said. “My teachers in these classes taught me that nothing is just handed to you, and you must work harder than you can imagine is possible if you want to make something legendary.”

Carly was also a member of the Talon, the student media organization of the high school.

an EP or LP later in 2020, and make a music video for our next single release coming out sometime around February.” Katie said. “[We would also like to] make music for more musicians, score more films, to sign with a label, and continue working at making something great.”

Annabel Thorpe Annabel Thorpe was the valedictorian

students, and I go to meet Mizzou days, which are days designated to talking to and introducing potential students to what the journalism school has to offer,” Thorpe said.

During her time in Argyle, Annabel founded the broadcast program and served as both the Editor-in-Chief and Broadcast Director of the Talon.

“All of the journalism class [at AISD helped me prepare for my career],” Thorpe said.

“Specifically, we went to conventions. Doing conventions and working with Mrs. Short so diligently to compete was absolutely key to my ability and the level I am able to perform at in college.”

In the future, Thorpe said she wants to be a national correspondent for a news network.

“My proudest accomplishment since graduation would be having the opportunity to report and anchor so early on during my journalism career at the University of Missouri,” Thorpe said. “It’s not really commonplace for students to be able to dive right into the station and get that experience right away.”

When asked what advice she would give to other students in AISD, Thorpe stated that

of the class of 2017. She now attends the

students should “chase whatever they are

University of Missouri and is pursuing a

passionate about.”

double major in journalism and economics

“Be a leader and take charge,” Thorpe said.

and works at their NBC

“Don’t let the limitations of

affiliate station, KOMU.

there not being enough interest,

“I actually work at a

there not being a club, and

commercially operating

there not being a class in order

station,” Thorpe said. “I

to really go for it. In newspaper

anchor on Friday nights, and

and broadcast specifically that

I report on Sundays for the

was really the mentality I took

better public speaker, which is so important

nine to 10 o’clock news. I go

and the mentality a few others

in any career path.”

live, I edit all my own video,

on staff took. Through that

and I pitch my own

experience, I gained so many

story ideas.”

skills that I value to this day.”

“The Talon also helped me a lot with filming and technical aspects of this career which has really come in handy,” Carly said. “[It] made me become tech savvy and a

When asked what advice they would give to other students in AISD, Katie stated that 38

• Argyle Insights • Winter 2019

FOCUS ON

EDUCATION DAY ...continued from Page 3

Winter 2019 • Argyle Insights •

39

E L Y G AR

CHOIR GOES TO AREA AUDITIONS

Sixteen Argyle High School Choir students participated in the TMEA Region 2 All-State Pre-Area auditions. Out of the sixteen students who auditioned, ten of them are moving on to the final round of Area Auditions in January at TWU! This is the most students Argyle ISD has ever had advance to this round. The AHS Choir also has more students than any other school in their Region moving on to the Area round for the Small School All State process.

Congratulations! AISD High School.

Photo courtesy Greg Martin

ARGYLE HIGH SCHOOL VARSITY GIRLS CROSS COUNTRY TEAM WINs AGAIN

photo courtesy of Town of Argyle

ARGYLE SPIRIT WEAR

Resident Priscilla Gouge and her company Thirsty 4 More Marketing has found a niche

Congratulations to the Varsity girls Cross

in the community when it comes to quality

Country team! Winning their third meet

and customizable spirit wear for the Town of

in a row at the Gingerbread Jamboree in

Argyle. She is currently offering free delivery

Denton on August 29. Three of the seven

to Argyle and Argyle School Zoned Commu-

girls placing in the top ten! Visit arygleisd.

nities. If you are looking for custom team

com for the full Cross Country schedule

sports and school apparel visit her website,

for both boys and girls teams.

thirsty-4-more.myshopify.com. photo courtesy of Priscilla Gouge

THE TOWN OF ARGYLE POLICE CHIEF RETIRES

After 20 years of serving the citizens of Argyle, Police Chief Temple Cottle has retired. His retirement was effective October 1 and the Town will bring in a Interim Chief until the vacancy is filled. Chief Cottle began his career with the Argyle Police Department in December 1998, and has served as Reserve Officer, Officer, Sergeant, Captain, and Interim Police Chief. As an important member of the community, we salute and thank you for your service.

40

• Argyle Insights • Winter 2019

photo courtesy of Britt S. Falten

CONGRATULATIONS TO BRENDA WILLIAMS

GRAND CHAMPIONS

STEM teacher at Argyle Intermediate

High School Band competed in the 6th

School, Brenda Williams, is the recipient of

Annual Sound of Springtown Marching

Recipient for 2019-2024, earning the Scenic

the Presidential Awards for Excellence in

Showcase. Competing against 19 other

City Certification Program designation!

Mathematics and Science Teaching. This is

schools these incredible students marched

the highest recognition a math or science teacher may receive in the United States.

AISD is so lucky to have her! On October 15, Brenda was awarded in Washington, D.C. Thank you for being an inspiration to our students!

On Saturday, October 12th the Argyle

their way to FIRST PLACE! They beat out schools classified as 5A and 6A! The AHS Band won Best Drumline, Best in Marching, Best in Music, and became Grand Champions! Congratulations!

TOWN OF ARGYLE SILVER AWARD RECIPIENT The Town of Argyle is a Silver Award

This means that Argyle was recognized for its commitment to high-quality scenic city standards, and making our community beautiful and picturesque for citizens and visitors. On October 10th, Town Manager Kristi Gilbert accepted the award on behalf of the Town at the Texas Municipal League Annual Conference in San Antonio.

ARGYLE ARCHERY

Mon, Tues, or Wed 5pm-6pm or 6pm-7pm | Archery Arena 800 Eagle Dr. • Argyle, TX 76226 The archery program is now part of Argyle Youth Sports Association and the new season is open for registration. Bullseye practices are at the Archery Arena located behind Argyle Intermediate School. Archery is open to 4th-12th grade students and the program needs coaches! If you would like to register your student visit www.argyleyouthsports.com and if you would like to be a parent volunteer or archery coach email Katey Harbison at klharbison1@gmail.com.

Remedy A Cappella takes second place

Remedy A Cappella participated in their first and only competition of the 2019-2020 school year and went up against 9 of the best HS A Cappella groups in the state of Texas! Four of the groups we were competing against have all competed in HS A Cappella National Finals in New York City multiple times over the past 10 years so the competition was extremely competitive! The hard work of the students truly paid off and they finished in 2nd Place at the SING Texas Vocal Arts Convention! This is Remedy’s first time to place in the top 3 in a competitive a cappella event.

Winter 2019 • Argyle Insights •

41

Giving Back For

The Holidays

by Brooke Ezzo

SADIE’S SLEIGH After her own fight with Leukemia, Sadie Keller knows all too well what it means to miss out on Christmas mornings because of cancer. In 2015 Sadie created her own toy drive to help bring Santa to hospitals. Sadie’s Sleigh delivers donated toys to children being treated for cancer, ensuring they have a wonderful Christmas.

They are accepting donations until December 16th at www.sadiekellerfoundation.org.

HOPE SUPPLY CO. Founded in 1989 as The Hope Foundation for the Homeless, their mission was to provide emergency grants to shelters for critical operating needs. As the growing number of babies being born into the homeless population the foundation chose to focus its resources toward helping homeless children in North Texas. They are currently the only program of their kind. All donations go toward warm, dry clothing, diapers, hygiene items, school uniforms and supplies, and toys. To volunteer, to donate, or to schedule clothing pick-up please visit www.hopedonation.org.

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• Argyle Insights • Winter 2019

logos courtesy of their respective facebook page

T

he joy of the holidays comes with surrounding yourself with friends and loved ones, but the spirit of Christmas represents the selfless things we do for others. There are many families in Denton County who may not have a home to wake up in after Santa comes, or loved ones spending that exciting morning in a hospital room fighting for their lives. This time of the year isn’t called the receiving season, it’s the giving season. If you are looking for a way to give your time, to give back, and to serve your community, here are few places to start. Be a Santa this year and spread Christmas cheer.

OUR DAILY BREAD In June 2000, more than 20 Denton area churches founded Our Daily Bread to feed and care for the homeless and atrisk in our community. Their mission is to maintain the dignity of their guests and offer opportunities for a new start. This faithful soup kitchen provides free, nutritious meals seven times a week. To volunteer or donate please visit them at www.ourdailybreaddenton.org.

DENTON COMMUNITY FOOD CENTER

DENTON ANIMAL SUPPORT FOUNDATION

Their mission is to provide food for families in need. Cash donations are the most versatile but non-perishables are greatly appreciated. Their biggest need for canned goods include canned fruit, canned tuna and chicken, and canned meals like SpaghettiO’s, chili, and stew. This center is solely run and operated on the efforts of volunteers and community donations. For more information please visit www.dentoncfc.org.

DASF has one mission: to save more animals.

Whether it is funding medical treatment for homeless pets or subsidizing adoption costs so more dogs and cats can find their fur-ever families, their goal is to enhance quality of life for these animals and help raise awareness in our area. They are always looking for volunteers and foster pet parents.

You can also donate to the cause by visiting www.dentonasf.com.

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make sure your

New Year’s Resolutions

stick

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• Argyle Insights • Winter 2019

W

e are inching closer to Christmas, which means the calendar will soon flip to the New Year and everyone will break out those pie-in-the-sky resolutions.

Sadly, very few of us will follow through.

Wow; talk about a Debbie-Downer statement to usher in 2020, right? But you and your friends here at Murray Media all know it to be true. While New Year’s resolutions are a great way to make a positive change in your life, whether it’s finally getting organized, losing a few extra pounds before next summer, quitting smoking, or taking the plunge and starting a new business, most reputable statistics show that 92 percent of all resolutions will fail by February.

That means only eight percent of us will attain whatever goal it is we set.

To make sure your New Year’s Resolutions stick, here are six tips to follow. At the end of the day, your friends here at MMG want to see you make the most out of the rest of this year and beyond.

92 percent of all resolutions

will fail by February At Least Initially, Don’t Get Too Lofty With Your Goals

You may want a “sky is the limit” mentality in 2020, and we are in no position to tell you differently.

But mentally, it’s easier to hit goals and stick with them longer if they are smaller at first. For example, instead of focusing on the big target of losing 100 pounds, start with the first 25-pound mark. As you get closer to hitting that first target, then get more adventurous.

Sometimes, this road merely begins by being more active today than you were yesterday.

Write Your Goals Down Writing your goals down helps make them real, which leads to accountability. But don’t just write them down and stick them in the bottom of your purse or in a junk drawer – put them on the corner of your desk at work or pin them to the front of your refrigerator door with a magnet. Seeing your goals every day keeps them top of mind and keeps you motivated.

Keep Track of Your Progress Speaking of writing things down, tracking your progress in a journal or on a calendar is a great way to stay mindful of your goals and to see what type of progress you are making.

Create Smart Goals We mentioned earlier about not getting too lofty with your goal-setting. It’s equally as important to make sure your goals are Specific, Measurable, Achievable, Results-Focused, and Time-Bound. New Year’s resolutions have a better chance of sticking if you are clearly defining what you are going to do, how you are going to do it, and in how much time.

Find an Accountability Partner Finding that one person who will hold you accountable every step of the way, no matter what your resolution may be, makes keeping the promises you made to yourself at the beginning of the year so much easier to achieve. The best accountability partner is someone who is trying to achieve the same goal you are, or has at least been in your shoes before and succeeded.

Remember The reasons Why You Decided to Do This If one of your New Year’s Resolutions is to quit smoking, your reasons for doing so may include being able to have the energy to play with your kids in the backyard, to keep your house from smelling bad, and just overall better health.

When you start to lose sight of your goal, think of the reasons why you got into this to begin with.

New Year’s resolutions are a great way to make a positive change in your life Clearly, this is not an exhaustive list of tips to avoid failing at your New Year’s resolutions. What are some of the tips and tricks that have worked for you over the years? Share them with us, and let’s all help each other be a better version of ourselves in 2020.

Winter 2019 • Argyle Insights •

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At Hilltop the past three months have

Greetings From The

flown by so quickly. We have seen great

Hilltop Elementary Principal “U

growth in reading scores and math continues to be one of our strengths. Our energy spent on STEM and science in the classroom (especially with the opportunity to use some spare rooms as labs) we are impressed

ngratefulness sees lack and

needs more structure.” “My child doesn’t

with students’ learning. Children optimize

complains. Gratitude celebrates

have friends.”

learning with inquiring questions that would

potential and progress.” Dan Rockwell I chose celebration!

I tell my teachers at the beginning, let’s

blow you away!

I want to thank our PTA, volunteers, watch

be ready for the struggle, until we hit a struggle for a child, the child cannot increase

dogs, substitutes, AHS PALS, sports buddies,

individual students, teachers, grade levels

self-confidence, resilience, or ignite unknown

and staff for continually finding new ways to

and schools. As the leader of the school the

capabilities. Every year as a parent, I remind

encourage and enlighten our learning! What

plan to guide is based on the reality of data

myself that the struggle is part of MY child’s

a happy place because of what you do! So

on students, observations of work, and the

growth. My hope as we work with struggling

as I look at opportunity to determine will I

continual growth of the whole child. Parents

children and the parents that struggle, we

complain about where

are faced with the same rampant need to

can move to statements such as “I want to

we need to get them to

see their unique child receiving the individual

help him find how to be happy” “I want her

or will I celebrate their

plan that reveals their best potential. I hear

to struggle until she meets her capabilities”

progress, this is an easy

these statements: “I want him to be happy”

“When my child shows watch she knows,

choice. We celebrate

“I don’t want her to struggle like I did.” “She

and then explore what she doesn’t know”

and continue to press

acts inappropriately because she’s bored and

“My child is learning to make friends.”

for growth.

In education we have goals set for classes,

Mandi Murphy Hilltop Principal

LOCAL CHEERLEADER PERFORMS IN THE VARSITY SPIRIT SPECTACULAR AT THE WALT DISNEY WORLD® RESORT

A

Info and photo provided by John Calitri

melia (Mia) Irwin from Argyle High School in Argyle, TX IS one of more than 800 high school cheerleaders and dancers from across the country that represented the camp brands of Varsity Spirit at the Varsity Spirit Spectacular at the Walt Disney World® Resort in Orlando, Florida on November 21 – November 25, 2019.

GO EAGLES!

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• Argyle Insights • Winter 2019