PROGRESS FALL 2019
PEARLAND INDEPENDENT SCHOOL DISTRICT
IN THIS ISSUE:
STUDENT SPOTLIGHTS
MAKING THE GRADE
I AM PEARLAND ISD
Students share their excitement for the upcoming holiday season
Read all about the latest district achievements and accolades
Child-centered & passionate - two words to describe our students and staff www.pearlandisd.org | 1
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Contents
Superintendent Dr. John P. Kelly
Fall 2019
Executive Director of Communications Kim Hocott Communications Coordinator Lexi Marshall Communications Specialist Cissa Madero
District Achievements
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I Am Pearland ISD
12
Webmaster Vic Bushfield Communications Department 281.485.3203 Ad Design School Revenue Partners CONTACT INFORMATION
Your Bond at Work
14
Foundation Feast Day
16
General Questions/Comments, Artwork and Design, Advertising info@schoolrevenuepartners.com School Revenue Partners 500 N. Central Expy #231 Plano, Texas 75074 Ph: 214.620.2091 www.schoolrevenuepartners.com PROGRESS is a publication of the Pearland ISD Communications Department.
ON THE COVER: Alexander Middle School 5th grader Jackson Matejka had a fun afternoon interacting with the Dawson football players and Eagle mascot.
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From the Desk of Superintendent Dr. John Kelly GIVING THANKS! I am so thankful to work with the people who provide educational services to our twenty thousand plus students here in Pearland ISD. We are blessed by an incredible team. Personally, I have never worked for a better group of teachers, administrators, aides, counselors, custodians, librarians, bus drivers, maintenance workers, secretaries, subject specialists, cafeteria workers, technology workers and the myriad of other people advancing the educational mission of our district. There is so much here that unites us all in a common cause. Part of our blessings is to be one of the most culturally, racially and ethnically diverse school districts in Texas. While there are those in every community who attempt to exacerbate the differences among us, the predominant spirit here assumes and finds the good will in others. I know that’s not what you always hear from TV news, social media and newspapers. But the reality is that we strive to be a model for the nation’s future – with people working together in harmony to give our kids a better life ahead. To paraphrase an old quote: “A society grows great when people plant trees whose shade they know they shall never sit in.” Please know our people are very encouraged and motivated by those parents and community members expressing gratitude for what they do each and every day. I urge you to take time and express thanks for those on the Pearland ISD team who have made a positive difference for you or others you know! I give thanks first to God – and then to all our people – for the continued blessings here in Pearland ISD!
Dr. John P. Kelly Superintendent of Schools
www.pearlandisd.org | 5
Student Spotlights Henry Wilson
2nd grade, Magnolia Elementary What is your favorite holiday dish and what is in it?
My favorite Thanksgiving food is barbecue. For Halloween, we have regular dinner. On Christmas, we have breakfast with biscuits and orange marmalade (like in my favorite book about Paddington the bear).
What does your dream holiday look like?
I would take a plane and go to England, take a train across the English Channel, then go to Paris for Christmas and we’d go to the Eiffel Tower to see it they decorated the evergreen trees around the gardens. My whole family would come with me and we would have baguettes.
Grace Akpan
3rd grade, Rustic Oak Elementary How do you prepare for the holidays?
I’ll go to the store with mom and get all the things we need, like ingredients and any decorations that we don’t have. I also make Christmas cards and pass them around the neighborhood. I’ve made 30 cards before!
What do you think is the essence of Christmas?
That you can get to know new people and spend time with them. Every year, we set a table outside in our front yard and ask people if they want to join us. We decorate, have food, dance, play games and get to know each other.
Camila Alvarado
5th grade, Alexander Middle School What do you think makes the holiday season so special?
Being all together and feeling really happy. I also think the traditions that you have and the people you spend time with make the holidays really special.
If you could have a Christmas that is different than anything else you’ve ever done, what would it look like?
Instead of getting a bunch of presents, I would like to go on a big trip somewhere like Disney World or on a Disney cruise.
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Thevan De Silva
6 grade, Rogers Middle School th
What do you prefer: Thanksgiving or Christmas?
Thanksgiving because I can eat a lot of food. I love mac cheese and turkey. We usually have Thanksgiving at our house, we invite a bunch of our friends, sit around our large dining table and we talk! We all say what our Thanksgiving wish is - this year, I want to be nice.
What is your favorite holiday tradition?
It’s not an American holiday, it’s from Sri Lanka, which is where my parents are from. It’s in April at the end of the harvest season that they have and its’ when we celebrate the end of the year. They make a lot of great food! We have coconut milk rice for breakfast.
Jacob Wilson
8th grade, Pearland Junior High East What is your favorite thing about the holiday season?
I really like that it gets cold and I love Christmas lights too. We decorate our house and also go to another neighborhood to look at the lights. Everyone in my family helps decorate.
Why do you think children believe in Santa?
Probably because of what they see in movies and seeing Santa at the mall. I think it makes Christmas more fun for the kids and parents. When I was little I didn’t even really care about the presents, I just wanted to see if Santa had come – I’d check the cookies and carrots we left out.
Jessica Nguyen
12 grade, Pearland High School th
What is your favorite holiday memory?
When I was a child , I would wake up in the morning and I would see the cup with milk for Santa with a lip milk mark and the cookies half eaten, seeing that Santa came.
What is a wish you have for the world this holiday season?
I wish that more people would pick up trash after themselves. I feel like climate change is just getting to be such a big problem. Not a lot of people know what is happening on the other side of the world.
www.pearlandisd.org | 7
District Achievements Pearland ISD received a score of 89 according to the Texas Education Agency A-F state accountability system rating, with 16 of 23 campuses maintaining an “A� rating or improving one letter grade.
Top-performing large Houston-area district in 2019 Children at Risk rankings. Pearland ISD has produced the most outstanding combination of highly graded schools among the Houston-area large school districts according to the rankings.
5 Stars in TXSmartSchools Ranking
for the fifth consecutive year, the district stands out due to cost-effective operations and high student achievement.
A+
Pearland ISD received an A+ rating according to Niche ratings and ranked fourth in the Houston metro area for excellent academics and student culture according to 2020 Niche ratings.
Houston-area
No. 4 Best School District No. 9 Most Diverse No. 16 Safest
Texas
No. 25 Best School District
*Note: Niche ranked 46 school districts in the Houston area and 1,002 school districts in Texas. For more info, visit www.niche.com. To learn more about the A-F accountability system, visit https://tea.texas.gov/A-F.
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Latest News Keith Kaup Director of Transportation Formerly the director of Spring ISD’s transportation department, Kaup brings more than 24 years combined experience in school transportation. A lifelong Pearlander, he served as Pearland ISD’s Assistant Director of Transportation between 2002 and 2004. Kaup holds a master’s degree in Leadership Studies from Grand Canyon University and a bachelor’s degree in Mathematics from the University of Houston. He is excited to come home to Pearland ISD and have the opportunity to make an impact in his community. “Pearland ISD will be the district of choice for pupil transportation professionals in the Houston area,” he said. “We will serve our students, families, schools and community in a safe, caring and efficient manner.”
Second Annual Dual Language Family Bi-Literacy Night Pearland ISD Bilingual/ESL Department welcomed close to 400 children and their families from Carleston, Cockrell, Lawhon and Magnolia elementaries at the second Dual Language Bi-Literacy Night on Oct. 22. Attendees came together for a night of fun promoting the importance of reading in Spanish and English. They were encouraged to connect with their children through interactive literacy stations.
Join In…Inspired, Informed, Involved Pearland ISD welcomed parents and community members at the third “Join In…Inspired, Informed, Involved” on Nov. 5. Attendees participated in a panel discussion with district counselors, attended sessions on gun safety and the dangers of juuling & vaping and interacted with 15 local mental health agencies through a Carousel of Resources.
www.pearlandisd.org | 9
Around the District
(Above) GT/Advanced fifth-graders from Alexander Middle School put their knowledge of circuits to practice while adapting toys for life skills students. Audrey Moore, fifth-grade life skills student, plays with bubbles created by one of the adapted toys.
(Right) Harris Elementary students wear orange and hold hands during a pledge supporting a bullying-free environment at school during Unity Day on Oct. 23.
High School’s (Above) Turner College & Career champion goat at Lauren Furr boasted the grand w & Career Expo. the Pearland ISD Livestock Sho tography) (Photo courtesy of Devin Sisk Pho 10 | PROGRESS
(Above) Berry Miller JH seven th-graders Leslie Hannan, Lyla Kutach and Maya Sabha rwal celebrated Red Ribbon Week by dressing up as the ir favorite decade and showing that drugs are old -school!
(Above) PJH Wes t’s Randle Moore , Ian MacPhail an Balabaskar celebr d Bharani ate "Start with H ello" week, prom inclusivity amon oting g students and st aff. her celebrates rtener Matej Pitc ga er nd Ki st re acter (Above) Shadyc his favorite char off s ow sh d an ing his love for read er Parade. er Book Charact nd Ki g outfit durin
(Above) Jamiso n Middle Scho ol students Nao Richardson an mi d Breanna Roch a prepare to p in the school’s articipate annual Veteran s Day program .
ng while lliams learns about quilti (Above) Senior Jessica Wi Dawson of rt app Senior Center as pa volunteering at the Kn in October. lping Seniors initiative He rs nio Se s ol’ ho Sc gh Hi
(Above) Cockrell Elementary Kindergartners visited the new Pearland Fire Station No. 1 on Oct. 11 and learned about fire safety during Fire Prevention Month. www.pearlandisd.org | 11
I AM PEARLAND ISD I AM
CHILD-CENTERED
Mrs. Cassie Parker, Silverlake Elementary Every October for the past 18 years, Physical Education teacher Mrs. Parker has dedicated her time to creating a spooky and elaborate Spider Obstacle Unit for students of all grades. Her initiative keeps students active and engaged in physical activities while celebrating Halloween. The spooky music along with students’ exclamations of excitement fill the room year to year!
Cindy Barcenas, Dual Language/ESL Specialist With nine years of educational experience, Barcenas was recently nominated as the 2019 Bilingual/ESL Secondary Teacher of the Year by the Texas Association for Bilingual Education (TABE). “It is a great honor and privilege to represent Pearland ISD and the Houston Area Association for Bilingual Educators. This moment is something that most educators merely dream about, and I am blessed to have this accomplishment as a reality. This award is for all my students, their parents, my colleagues and my support system. Without all of them, I would not have been able to accomplish all that I have in my career. I am passionate about being students’ voice of encouragement as they pursue their dreams, their voice of support as they grow in their academics and their support system as they encounter joyful, exciting or trying times in life,” Barcenas said.
www.pearlandisd.org/IAm 12 | PROGRESS
I AM
PASSIONATE
Michelle Hicks, Educational Technology Specialist “Every year, for the past three years, Mrs. Voluntine, second grade teacher at Massey Ranch, reaches out to me when the students start studying idioms. That’s when I reach for my personal collection of Amelia Bedelia books, which is one of my favorites! My own children are 12 and 15 years old, so I don’t get to read to them anymore. I usually read one book to the class every year, but this year I read two – we just read one of her books about Thanksgiving. My favorite thing about doing this is being able to spend time and interact with the kids, while I get to read to them one of my favorite books!”
Jaden Cole, Turner CCHS Student FFA student and high school senior Jaden Cole recently initiated the first Partner Livestock Show. An FFA student since fourth grade, Jaden is also heavily involved in Boy Scouts. He prepared a 32-page presentation addressing concerns, outlining a timeline, a mentor selection process and an overall plan for the event. Jaden was able to combine his passion for both organizations and for serving others through his Boy Scout Eagle Project, Pearland ISD’s first livestock show specifically focused on students with disabilities.
www.pearlandisd.org | 13
PJH East Entrance/Security Vestibule
NOVEMBER 2019 UPDATE Additions and renovations are complete at Dawson and Turner high schools, Junior High West, Junior High East, Jamison and Sablatura middle schools and seven elementary schools. Security upgrades at all schools have been completed. Upgrades include security vestibules, access control card readers, additional cameras, fencing, security hardware, emergency call buttons and window safety film. Additional call buttons will be added during 2020.
Dawson HS Fine Arts/Dance Room
Pressbox renovations and a faรงade treatment at The Rig have begun and will be complete for fall 2020, as will the renovations at Pearland High School. The bond program is progressing on schedule and within budget. For more information, visit the bond website: www.pearlandisd.org/bond.
Silverlake Elementary Gym
Turner College & Career HS Culinary Facility 14 | PROGRESS
WE
OUR COMMUNITY PARTNERS!
2019 EMPLOYEE BENEFITS & WELLNESS FAIR
PARTNER SPOTLIGHT
Pearland ISD recently held its inaugural Employee Benefits & Wellness Fair. Because of our sponsors, attendees were able to be entered into exciting raffles while attending the fair. Thank you to these local businesses for supporting our staff and district initiatives!
Year after year, Marco’s Pizza in Pearland shows up as a strong partner for Pearland ISD. Through support ranging from free pizza incentive certificates for students, to sponsorship of multiple events including the annual #iwillASK suicide prevention event, Marco’s continues to serve up a slice of support for the district, our students and staff! (Left) Alfredo Magana and Reyes Orozco, franchise owners of Marco’s Pizza in Pearland, pride themselves on being consistent supporters of Pearland ISD staff and students.
www.pearlandisd.org | 15
Pearland ISD Education Foundation is partnering with local area restaurants for its second annual “Feast for the Foundation� community fundraiser to be held on . The date is significant as it coincides with #GivingTuesday, the Tuesday after Thanksgiving recognized as National Day of Giving. Community members are invited to dine out for education at one of the participating restaurants on . “This event gives Pearland citizens an opportunity to support local dining restaurants, raise funds for innovative education in our classrooms and give back to a charity in need on Giving Tuesday,� Melissa Black, Pearland ISD Education Foundation President, said. Each restaurant will donate a portion of proceeds to the Pearland ISD Education Foundation. Proceeds will support the nonprofit organization and the Innovative Teaching Grants Program, which funds educational programs and activities in Pearland Independent School District. Patrons are encouraged to bring the printable flier or mention the event upon arrival. For more information about Feast for the Foundation, visit  .
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DIDYOUKNOW?
2014 $361,000
WHAT ARE EDUCATION FOUNDATIONS?
6,500+
PURPOSE: what is it?
DIDYOUKNOW
GETINVOLVED
?
WHY DO FOUNDATIONS EXIST?
CONTACT
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Out & About With the Board Board president Charles Gooden, Jr. welcomes teachers to the district during New Teacher Orientation.
and Trustees Crystal Carbone w off sho ly ud pro Sean Murphy HS’s CC r rne Tu in the pizza oven y. ilit Fac ts Ar new Culinary
Board members held a Town Hall to discuss the dangers of vaping and juuling and district safety/security updates with community members.
Trustees Lance Botki n, Crystal Carbone and Mikael Floyd en joy interacting with students during board recognition.
Trustees Crystal Carbone and Jeff Barry held a discussion with the student advisory committee, consisting of junior high and high school students, to discuss happenings in their schools.
During board recognition, trustees Jeff Barry, Rebecca Decker and Charles Gooden, Jr. congratulate an FFA student on his achievements.
Board of Trustees Charles Gooden, Jr. | President Lance Botkin | Vice President Rebecca Decker | Secretary
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Jeff Barry | Member Crystal Carbone | Member Mikael Floyd | Member Sean Murphy | Member
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