The Pride - Volume 41, Issue4

THE PRIDE The Official Newsletter of Shallowater ISD VOL. 41 ISSUE 4 • FEBRUARY 2025

Welcome to Volume 41 of

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Congratulations SHS Cheer!

Click here for pictures of UIL State Spirit Championships.

2x State Champions THE PRIDE

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Message from the Superintendent Let’s talk vouchers in Shallowater ISD………

Right now, discussions about school vouchers are everywhere, with people on all sides of the issue sharing their perspectives. Social media often reinforces our own viewpoints, making it easy to see only one side of the conversation. But beyond the online debates, what truly matters is how these policies could impact students, teachers, and communities like Shallowater ISD. So where are we now?

Today, Shallowater ISD has grown at a rate of just over two percent/year since 2019. We have exactly one more teacher position since then, but we have added a Safety Coordinator and an additional officer (required by unfunded safety laws). Through the generosity of our community supporting our bond program and our Shallowater Education Foundation, we have expanded and updated our spaces and provided technology for every student. We have greatly expanded CTE programs such as Health Science, robotics, broadcasting and graphic design (SSN), and strengthened other existing ag, culinary, teaching, and technology programs. We have updated every court and athletic field and expanded our fine arts spaces and equipment. We stretch to lead the state in every competition we participate in, and we support our kids wildly with our presence and finances.

The funding for all these things was possible primarily through local efforts including our bond construction program, Shallowater Education Foundation, booster clubs, PTOs, and organization fundraisers. We were also shored up with federal COVID funds for a few years, and we maximized their usage. Our taxes have increased, but state funding has decreased leaving our operations budget stagnant.

Through very conservative budgeting principles, our school board has maintained a balanced operations budget, building reserve funds each year, providing a 3% annual raise for teachers, and increasing support staff salaries to stay competitive in the market. Yet, despite these efforts, we have struggled to keep pace with increasing inflation rates (8% last year alone)—all with little to no additional support from the state.

The harsh reality is this: We have not seen an increase in the state's Basic Allotment per-student funding since 2019.

This basic funding level remains at $6,160 today. We have received no money for teacher pay increases, for additional safety positions, for full-day PK, and for the giant inflationary costs that have hit us in the last few years. We have become TIGHTLY efficient with our spending to the point where any emergency or unexpected expense will send us straight to reserves. Our insurance alone has tripled in price with higher deductibles, and our maintenance budget has barely increased even though utilities costs, even paper costs, have inflated. This means all discretionary spending is gone. If this pace continues, we will have little to no means to maintain our facilities and transportation fleet while continuing to support our academic and extracurricular needs. cont. on next page

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What does all this mean for Shallowater ISD? We live in this tight reality while the billions that could have been pumped into our system from the state have sat and earned thousands, even millions, in interest. All the while our Governor and legislators promise to deliver school choice first. All the talk over myths vs. facts really doesn’t matter. The “PIE” of available funds for schools is a fixed number. Vouchers simply take a slice of the pie. Period. And the slices are set to grow larger each biennium the legislature meets. Correspondingly, the slice for public schools will decrease more over time, as promised by our Governor. That’s why it’s essential for communities like ours to stay informed and engaged in the conversation.

Important fact! The $1B set aside for vouchers, if divided out per student across the state, could mean an additional $320,000 to Shallowater ISD next year! That is the FIRST impact we could face in loss of dollars. We also could face a decline in enrollment, with loss of that funding as well. Different rules and playing fields would be created for education, with a lack of accountability. The district would be required to accept students who took a voucher and then came back to SISD, and they likely would not be prepared for a higher standard of accountability.

We don’t know the details, but we know that many legislators are dedicated to the task. Because it is political, only one measure can be taken: Taxpayers must ensure that politicians know their wishes and their votes. If you believe in investing in your local community school with your tax dollars, you can take the time to call our representatives’ offices and let them know your expectations and that you will follow them with your vote. They will tally your calls, and they will matter. District leaders are willing to answer any questions you may have, and please know that we are doing all that we can to advocate for our school. Shallowater ISD has ALWAYS thrived because of the support of our community. Let our politicians know your local community is important to you, and our school is worth investing in FIRST! Senator Charles Perry (512) 463-0128 Speaker Dustin Burrows (512) 463-0542 Rep. Carl Tepper (512) 463-0676 House Ed Chairman Brad Buckley (512) 463-0684 Senate Ed Chairman Brandon Creighton (512) 463-0104

--Dr. Anita Hebert

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DIGITAL SAFETY TOOLKIT At Shallowater ISD, we prioritize the digital safety and well-being of every student in our care. In today’s technology-driven world, students are constantly exposed to new digital environments, and we understand the importance of working hand-in-hand with families to keep them safe online. To support this effort, we have curated a collection of trusted resources to help parents navigate and better understand the digital spaces their children engage with. By fostering this partnership with families, we aim to create a safe, informed, and supportive digital experience for all students, both at school and at home.

View SISD’s Digital Safety Toolkit here! Be sure to check back often, as we’ll continue adding new resources for you!

CHAMPIONING IT Students are engaging with their devices, taking ownership of their learning, and meeting their goals! Mrs. Phillips is also actively supporting teachers in integrating technology into their classrooms. Stay updated on all the exciting initiatives by following the SISD Instructional Technology Facebook page!

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INTERMEDIATE MUSTANG SPOTLIGHT 4TH 6 WEEKS

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SHS MUSTANGS & FILLIES OF THE MONTH

January

9TH GRADE: Parker Young & Gage Mobley 10TH GRADE: Sophia Bellar & Riley Mathewson 11TH GRADE: Alyssa Beldon & Maddox McDonald 12TH GRADE: Makenna Strickland & Stone Beach

SHS MIGHTY MUSTANG OF THE MONTH

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SCHOOL BOARD APPRECIATION MONTH Shallowater ISD proudly celebrated School Board Appreciation Month in January, honoring the dedication and leadership of our incredible Board of Trustees. We extend our deepest gratitude to Brice Foster, Dr. Brian Carreon, Kyle Motheral, Bradley Price, Aaron Morris, Kyla Hamilton, and Dr. Alana Hayes for their unwavering commitment to our students, staff, and community. Their vision and leadership help shape the future of our district, ensuring that every student has the opportunity to learn, grow, and succeed. Thank you for your service and dedication to Shallowater ISD!

SEF GOLF TOURNAMENT

One of the goals of Shallowater Education Foundation is to provide tools for our students to succeed. One way they do this is through awarding scholarships to deserving seniors seeking to further their education.

Our Golfing for Graduates event provides the funds for the Senior Scholarships.

There are many ways to help make this event a success for the class of 2025. Click this link for all of the information!

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FINANCIAL TRANSPARENCY At Shallowater ISD, we are dedicated to financial transparency and responsible stewardship of our resources. Every dollar is invested with a focus on student growth and success, ensuring our schools provide high-quality education and opportunities for all learners. Through clear reporting and strategic planning, we prioritize both fiscal responsibility and the needs of our students, staff, and community. Click this link to check out our Business & Finance page! Be sure to check back regularly as new information will be added!

GRIMES NAMED CHEERLEADER OF THE YEAR Congratulations to SHS Senior, Maggie Grimes! She was named the 2024-2025 1A-4A TGCA Cheerleader of the Year. Maggie is a two-time UIL Spirit state champion and has been an integral part of multiple other state champion teams including the 2024 Fillies Basketball team, and the 2022 and 2023 Mile Relay teams.

Honorees are chosen based on cheerleading skills, GPA, class rank, community service, awards/recognitions and is then voted on by the TGCA Spirit Committee. This award is given to only ONE cheerleader from all schools 1A-4A, so this is an incredible honor not only for Grimes, but for Shallowater ISD! Coach Willer shared, “Maggie is one of a kind! She came to practice and was always such a light. She is a natural leader and leads by example. When the team was down, she always knew how to build them up! Right before UIL Maggie was so sick, but she was determined to win another state championship and not let her team down! She was getting an IV in the hotel the day before we competed! She is dedicated, driven, and just the best!!! I feel so lucky to have had the opportunity to coach Maggie Grimes! I hope she always knows how much she means to me and to Shallowater Cheer!!

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FINE ARTS NEWS SCARLET STEPPERS AUDITION INFO

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FINE ARTS NEWS SCARLET STEPPERS SHINE DURING COMPETITION SEASON The Shallowater High School and Middle School Pom teams kicked off their competition season with outstanding performances at the West Texas Dance Classic, bringing home top awards and high honors.

Click here for photos from the competition.

High School Achievements: Division 1 Sweepstakes (score of 90+ on all routines), 3rd Place Runner-Up in Division, Academic Champion Runner-Up, Sportsmanship Award (voted on by other teams for high character and excellence) Middle School Achievements: Double Division 1 Rating, Sportsmanship Award Team Highlights: Division 1 Rating for All Team Jazz, Judges Award for All Team Jazz (94+ score from each judge) Solo Honors: Sadie Miles—2nd Place Solo & Division 1 Rating The Scarlet Steppers finished their competition season at the Crowd Pleasers Competition at Lubbock Cooper Liberty on February 15th with another day of success. Middle School received 1st Place High Point in Jazz and Fusion. High School received 2nd Place High Point in Jazz, Hip Hop, and Pom and The Award of Excellence, which is voted on by other the other teams competing. We are incredibly proud of the Scarlet Steppers for their hard work, talent, and sportsmanship!

As we celebrate these achievements, we would also like to honor our four seniors—Paisleigh Brownd, Presley St. Clair, Makenna Strickland, and Haley Davis. Since the Scarlet Steppers' inception in 2019, these remarkable young women have played a pivotal role in building the program from the ground up.

Their vision, dedication, and leadership have shaped the Scarlet Steppers into the thriving team it is today, creating a legacy for future students. We are deeply grateful for their contributions, along with the unwavering support of their parents and coaches (Sabrina Gill and Cori Moffit).

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FINE ARTS NEWS SHS BAND MEMBERS QUALIFY FOR STATE SOLO AND ENSEMBLE SHS Band had a VERY successful at the region solo and ensemble competition on February 28th! The following students earned a first division and will be competing at the Texas State Solo and Ensemble Competition in May. Way to go musicians and band directors!

Soloists qualifying for state: Kaylen Barber Aiden Carter Michael Clay Raelee Clayton Lizeth Olivas Kiersyn Outland Sawyer Ramage Araceli Rios Aaron Trujillo Sonatina Giocosa Flute Quartet: Kelley Clausen Camryn Duesterhaus Alianna Ramirez Kailyn Thompson

Whitney Brass Quartet: Jay Alexandroni Avery Arthur Aubri Maldonado Presley Morren Whitney Brass Quartet: Madison Ganus Clara Hamilton Rhealee Key Addison Lusk Whitney Brass Quartet: Makenna Brown Aiden Garcia Andrew Garcia Aubri Maldonado

Die Bankelsangerlieder Brass Quintet: Andrew Garcia Clara Hamilton Yesenia Rios Luis Rodriguez Isaac Salazar Die Bankelsangerlieder Brass Quintet: Carson Babb Conner Youso Todd Engelbrecht Aiden Garcia Riley Mathewson

The Whaling Song Brass Quintet: Jayden Bayliss Madison Ganus On a Pastoral Theme Clarinet Quartet: Rhealee Key Lizbeth Arguelles Brayden Sharp Die Bankelsangerlieder Brass Quintet: Amrie Martinez Chris Starcher Carson Babb Jennyfer Nunez Kaylen Barber Drum Amalgum Percussion Ensemble: Alyssa Thompson Clover Cate Lizeth Olivas Raelee Clayton Kiersyn Outland Jose Pando Aaron Trujillo

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FINE ARTS NEWS SHS CHOIR STUDENTS ADVANCE TO STATE

Congratulations to our outstanding students who have qualified for the Texas State Solo and Ensemble Competition this May! These talented musicians earned Division 1 ratings—the highest possible score—at their recent competition at Frenship. Their dedication and hard work have paid off, and we couldn't be prouder. Best of luck at state!

Taylyn Boatright Taylor McMurry Maddox Phillips Haeven Parks Ella Starcher Kayal White We would also like to congratulate high school students Kaycey Williams, Alexyz Deporto, and Hayden Harris on a job well done, and middle school students Kaylee Wood and Kate Jock, who made first divisions on their middle school solos. Way to go!!

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SPORTS ZONE SHS & SMS CHEER TRYOUT INFO

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SPORTS ZONE SHALLOWATER FILLIES AND MUSTANGS LEAVE A LASTING LEGACY OF EXCELLENCE The Shallowater Fillies have left no doubt about their dominance this season, securing the outright district championship with a crucial victory over Slaton. Their 38-22 win over Idalou to finish district play further solidified their top spot, showcasing their strength and skill. Battle-tested from the regular season, the Fillies carried that momentum into the postseason without missing a beat. They opened their playoff run with an impressive 62-43 win over the Bushland Falcons, extending their winning streak to 19 games and improving their record to 26-8. Continuing their remarkable journey, the Fillies took down the Brownfield Lady Cubs 66-41 at the Texan Dome, pushing their record to 27-8 with their 20th consecutive victory. Their balanced offense and relentless defense were the driving forces behind their success.

As the postseason progressed, the Fillies faced Jim Ned in a tough battle. Despite their incredible efforts on both ends of the court, the Fillies fell short with a 56-49 loss, bringing their remarkable season to a close. While the final result was heartbreaking, their journey has been nothing short of inspiring. The Fillies’ resilience, teamwork, and commitment to excellence have left a lasting impact, and the leadership shown by this year’s senior players will be remembered for years to come. These seniors have set a high standard for future Fillies, leaving behind a legacy of hard work, perseverance, and dedication.

Similarly, the Shallowater Mustangs have been unstoppable, finishing an exceptional district run with an 81-37 victory over Roosevelt to secure the district championship. Their dominant performance marked their ninth consecutive win, pushing their record to 18-4. Over that stretch, the Mustangs have outscored opponents by an average of 42.6 points per game, a testament to their aggressive playstyle and determination. Their postseason journey was a series of statement victories, including avenging an earlier loss to Slaton with a 69-51 win, edging out Idalou 60-57, and dominating Muleshoe 81-26. (cont. on next page.)

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SPORTS ZONE The Mustangs’ consistency and drive were on full display as they continued to overpower their opponents.

In the first round of playoffs, the Mustangs faced Dalhart in the Bi-District round at Canyon Randall, continuing their winning streak with a 57-50 victory. The stakes were high as they took on Presidio in the Area matchup in Monahans. The game reached a thrilling climax when Mikah Blackshear hit a buzzer-beating 3/4 court shot to send the Mustangs into halftime with renewed energy. The second half was an intense, high-stakes battle, and despite their valiant efforts, the Mustangs fell just short with a 46-43 loss. Though their postseason journey ended in heartbreak, the Mustangs’ strength, heart, and determination were evident every step of the way.

As we reflect on both teams’ seasons, we are filled with pride for the Fillies and Mustangs—especially the seniors who have left a profound legacy. These senior athletes not only demonstrated exceptional skill on the court but also showed leadership, commitment, and sportsmanship that will inspire future generations of Fillies and Mustangs. Their unwavering dedication to their teams and communities will be remembered as a shining example of what it means to give everything for the game and for each other.

Click here for Fillie Basketball photos.

Click here for Mustang Basketball photos.

Don’t forget to check out Peachjar for all student/family opportunities. Click the icon to the left to be directed to the dashboard of all flyers! Flyers also come to your email Tuesdays and Thursdays and can be accessed at anytime from the district website!

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Thank you to our sponsors for your continued support of The Pride Newsletter!

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THE PRIDE STAFF DR. ANITA HEBERT, SUPERINTENDENT OF SISD, PUBLISHER JENNIFER MITCHELL, MANAGING EDITOR FOR ADVERTISING RATES, CONTACT THE MANAGING EDITOR AT 806-832-4531 OR JMITCHELL@SHALLOWATERISD.NET

The Pride is a publication of Shallowater Independent School District and is distributed monthly during the school year.

Newsletters are sent free of charge digitally to all subscribers and printed free for community members who are 60+ by request. Printed subscriptions are available for other residents for $25 annually. Articles published in the PRIDE are copyrighted. All Rights Reserved.

Readers can express their views on articles in this newspaper by writing to: The PRIDE Letters to the Editor 1100 Ave. K Shallowater, TX, 79363

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