CARDINAL
A G A Z I N E
BOARD OF TRUSTEES
Th k B d Th k B d
Margarita Morales-Garcia Board Trustee
Lisa L. Salazar Board Trustee
Mary Silva Board Trustee
Mary Belle Unger-Robles Board Trustee
Jesse Hernandez Board President
Katie Farias Vice President
Brenda Olivarez Board Secretary
THE SUPERINTENDENT MESSAGE FROM
ROLANDO RAMIREZ
Dear Parents and Community Members,
On behalf of the Board of Trustees and administrators, we want to start by wishing you all a very happy and peaceful holiday season. As we reflect on the year, we are filled with gratitude for your continued support of Southside ISD. It is truly a privilege to work alongside such a dedicated and caring community.
In this edition of our fall/winter magazine, The Cardinal, we are excited to showcase the hard work and achievements of our incredible educators and students. In Academics, the district attained a projected 81 State Academic Accountability Rating for the 2023-2024 school year, and this year's district benchmarks show improved scores. In Finance, the district earned a 91 rating on the Financial Integrity Rating of Texas (FIRST) Report. We look forward to more improved academic and financial state ratings this year.
In Fine Arts, Losoya, Matthey, and the High School all received Division I ratings earning sweepstakes honors and attaining the highest achievement possible. Our elementary art students took 1st place in the Dee Howard Art competition, and their artwork has been exhibited throughout the city.
every classroom to improve communication, engagement, and safety. Additionally, security film has been applied to exterior windows in vulnerable areas, and, thanks to a generous grant, all of our school police officers now wear body cameras. These measures are part of our ongoing effort to create a safe and supportive environment for everyone at Southside ISD.
In Sports, we have much to celebrate! Our Cross Country team had an outstanding season, and we are particularly proud of Emerald Aguirre, a freshman who made it all the way to state! Congratulations are in order for our 7th and 8th-grade football teams at Matthey Middle School, who recently won the Big 19 Zone III Championship! Their dedication and teamwork have made us all incredibly proud. Our Varsity girls basketball team is off to a great start, and hoping to advance in the playoffs.
We are also committed to keeping our students and staff safe, and, in this edition, you will find updates on the significant strides we’ve made to enhance security across our campuses. We’ve completed the installation of phones in
We want to also celebrate the growth of Southside ISD. Our enrollment is at an all-time high! We have so much to be thankful for at Southside. We are excited for all the opportunities the new year will bring, and we look forward to another incredible year. Thank you again for your unwavering support. We wish you and your family a joyful holiday season, and we look forward to another year of success, growth, and achievement in our Cardinal Nation.
Bright New Looks for Cafeterias at Southside ISD
The Child Nutrition Department at Southside ISD is dedicated to preparing healthy and delicious meals for students, and they recently identified some areas for improvement. Thanks to secured funding, they’ve launched a series of exciting upgrades throughout the district. This initiative kicked off with new kitchen supplies, an additional serving line, and vibrant artwork outside Southside High School. Now, all four elementary schools have been transformed with fresh paint and creative designs, leaving the students excited about the enhancements. “The students couldn’t believe how beautiful everything looked,” said Janie Ramirez, Director of Child Nutrition. “That’s why we did it—it’s all for them!” The next project will focus on installing new tables at the middle schools later this year.
Southside ISD Business Office Awarded Transparency Star Award
The Texas Comptroller of Public Accounts' Transparency Stars program recognizes local governments for going above and beyond in their transparency efforts. The program recognizes government entities that accomplish the following: Open their books in the areas of traditional finances, contracts and procurement, economic development, public pensions, debt obligations, and open government and compliance. Provide clear and meaningful financial information by posting financial documents, as well as thorough summaries, visualizations, downloadable data and other relevant information.
Southside ISD received the Financial Transparency Star for the transformation and redesign of the Finance website page for the purpose of presenting clear, meaningful data to our community. Southside ISD Business Office Department.
Feast of Giving Celebrates Community and Gratitude at Southside ISD
Southside ISD’s annual Feast of Giving is the perfect way to kick off the holiday season With smiling faces, heartwarming student performances, and a spirit of unity, this cherished event brings together thousands of people from across the Southside community to share a special Thanksgiving meal with their Cardinal family Every year, the event shines with memorable moments, particularly when each campus showcases its unique performances in the auditorium This year, we were honored to have incredible support from our community, including the SA Food Bank, which provided produce bags, University Health, which hosted a booster seat giveaway, and CommuniCare for their generous donation Thank you to all our supporters and the Southside community for making this wonderful tradition possible
EMPLOYEE CONTRIBUTION CAMPAIGN AND BINGO NIGHT
The Southside ISD Education Foundation kicked off the 2024-2025 school year with a Bingo, we mean Bang! Out of the $75,000 the 501c3 nonprofit is trying to raise this year, they have already raised approximately $16,000.
Bingo for Bags was a huge success. Friends and families gathered at Pica Pica Event Plaza to enjoy 20 rounds of bingo. The event raised valuable funds for student scholarships and teacher grants. The grand prize was a $2,000 Louis Vuitton tote bag!
Coming up this Spring is the annual Golf Tournament at Canyon Springs. More information is on the last page of this magazine.
EDUCATION FOUNDATION GRANTS & SCHOLARSHIPS
ARE NOW OPEN!
Southside ISD Education Foundation is working hard to raise as much money as possible in order to give it out this coming Spring! Grants will be awarded in May 2025 and are to be used in the 2025 - 2026 school year. Seniors can expect their news by May 2025.
Attention Southside ISD staff and students: two opportunities to earn money are now open for applications. Teachers can apply for Innovation grants that are $500 to more than $6,000. Seniors can apply for scholarships. One student even received $7,000!
SOUTHSIDE ISD 9TH ANNUAL SPANISH SPELLING BEE
Congratulations to all the students across Southside ISD who participated in the 9th Annual Spanish Spelling Bee. Every year the Bilingual Department puts on this great event, and it is truly a collective effort across the district that continues to flourish. The SISD Spanish Spelling Bee is open to both English and Spanish-speaking students. This event helps support our ESL (English as a Second Language) and Dual language programs. There are three areas Southside ISD wants to showcase and grow through this event: bilingualism, biculturalism, and biliteracy. This year we had approximately a hundred students compete. Each year our winners go on to compete at the state and national levels.
Next year the Bilingual Department plans to celebrate its 10th year here at Southside ISD - be on the lookout for a bigger and better event!
Here are the 9th Annual Spanish Spelling Bee Winners:
Elementary School: 1st Place-Kayla Salinas (Freedom), 2nd Place-Azenet Aguillon Martinez (Freedom), 3rd Place-Ithan Torres Garzon (Gallardo)
SOUTHSIDE FFA MAKES HISTORY WITH TWO TEAMS COMPETING AT AREA COMPETITION
On November 20th, Southside FFA had the honor of sending two teams to compete at the Area VII Leadership Development Events (LDEs) at Schreiner University, marking the first time in school history that two teams have qualified for the Area contest in the same year. The Public Relations (PR) team, which advanced after securing 3rd place at the Alamo District LDEs, and the Radio Broadcasting team, which earned 1st place at District, represented Southside FFA with pride.
At the Area contest, the PR team comprised of Izabela Kibiger, Melany Avila, Cole Matheny, and Hilda Dominguez earned 9th place, while the Radio Broadcasting team, made up of Izabela Kibiger, Cole Matheny, and Zach Ramos, finished in 8th place, bringing home an Area banner. This is an outstanding accomplishment, especially considering that Alamo District is one of the most competitive districts in Area VII, which is known for being one of the most challenging areas in the state.
High School: 1st Place-Mia Ruiz (9th grade), 2nd Place-Alyn De Santiago Ortiz (10th Grade), 3rd Place-Bethany Iniguez-Morales (11th Grade)
Academic Excellence and Positive Behavior Supports
The Southside Special Programs Department has made significant strides in improving outcomes for students with disabilities. By implementing research-based inclusive practices and providing ongoing professional development to staff, we have seen a marked improvement in the academic achievement of our students Additionally, our department has embraced a proactive approach to behavior support, focusing on deescalation techniques and restorative practices. This shift has resulted in a significant reduction in out-ofschool suspensions, ensuring that students remain in the classroom and engaged in learning.
Community Partnerships and Family Engagement
A Brighter Future
The Southside Special Programs Department is committed to providing an exceptional educational experience for every student. We believe that all students, regardless of their abilities, deserve the opportunity to reach their full potential. Through our dedication to inclusive practices, positive behavior supports, and strong community partnerships, we are creating a brighter future for our students with disabilities. We are proud of the work we do and remain dedicated to continuous improvement in our mission to serve.
Recognizing the importance of collaboration, the Southside Special Programs Department has actively sought partnerships to enhance services for our students. We are proud to have partnered with a local university to establish two state-of-the-art sensory and motor rooms, providing therapeutic support and promoting self-regulation for students with sensory needs. Furthermore, through our collaboration with a generous non-profit organization, we will soon be providing five adaptive bicycles, enabling students with disabilities to experience the joy and freedom of cycling We also deeply value the partnership with our families. We have hosted successful parent nights focused on autism and other low-incidence disabilities, providing valuable information and support to our families.
First to have ONSITE Mental Health Clinic
Earlier this semester, the Southside ISD Board of Trustees approved a first-of-its-kind partnership. Southside ISD will be the first district in the area to have an on-site Mental Health Support Guidance Center. Clarity is the only nonprofit in South Texas solely dedicated to the behavioral health needs of children ages 3 to 17.
Although Clarity currently has on-site services at two other area school districts, Assistant Superintendent Miguel Castillo says this partnership will be unique in that this will be the first time Clarity will have an onsite center at the campus and in the district. “This will take away some of the obstacles of cost and travel. It will also mean an easier transition for our students back to the classroom.”
Southside ISD is a mostly rural school district, and transportation and access to medical health are already challenging for some families in the area. Getting access to behavioral and mental health can be even more challenging. There are no psychiatrists in the South San Antonio area codes and only two known therapists. Clarity services would include:
Adolescent Psychiatric Partial Hospital Program (PHP):
The PHP will offer intensive outpatient services for adolescents aged 12 to 17 years who are enrolled with Southside ISD.
Participants will attend daily therapeutic sessions and group counseling.
Walk-In Assessment Program:
The walk-in program will provide psychiatric assessments on a walk-in, first come first served basis for children and adolescents (aged 3-17), who are enrolled with Southside ISD and experiencing acute mental health crises.
Outpatient Therapy and Psychiatry Services: Outpatient routine appointments for individual/family therapy and medication management will be offered through a combination of in person and tele-health resources.
Services will be available for children and adolescents aged 3-17, who are enrolled with Southside ISD and are requiring routine mental health intervention.
These are just a few of the services that will be available. At the board meeting on Wednesday, October 16, 2024, Board President, Jesse Hernandez, said, “[We] definitely see the need. I know we have the need and so being able to bring it closer to us and be here no closer than our campus, that is just wonderful.”
Board Vice President Katie Farias expressed how she has seen, through her work and personally, how sparse services are throughout South Texas, and trustee Brenda Olivares expressed her approval by saying, “ I love this; it is so needed in this area.”
Mr. Castillo says this is also so impactful because, “Southside ISD has a history of being underrepresented or not represented at all when it comes to the realm of social, emotional health, and mental health services. This will enable access to all our students and help our families.”
Clarity will be housed in a section of the high school campus. A ribbon cutting is set for late January.
SISD counselor Atlee Gonzales and student is Izabella Kibiger in new clarity space.
Southside ISD Enhances Campus Safety with New Body Cameras and Classroom
Southside Independent School District (ISD) is taking significant steps to enhance the safety and well-being of its students and staff through new initiatives funded by a generous grant from Texas Political Subdivisions (TPS). The district will use this grant to purchase 12 body cameras for school police officers, which will help document incidents and create a safer environment for everyone on campus. This initiative is part of TPS's broader effort to support its member districts, understanding that school safety is a shared concern. Research shows that the presence of cameras can deter disruptive behavior, and by equipping staff with these tools, Southside ISD hopes to both prevent incidents and provide valuable evidence when necessary.
communication in emergencies. The phones will also enhance daily classroom operations, allowing for seamless communication with parents and administrators. This commitment to both technology and safety underscores Southside ISD’s dedication to creating a secure, supportive learning environment where educators can focus on what matters most— providing an exceptional education for every student.
With these initiatives, Southside ISD continues to prioritize safety while fostering a positive, productive atmosphere for students and staff alike. The body cameras and new classroom phones are just the latest steps in the district’s ongoing effort to create a school environment where everyone can learn and grow in safety.
“We are grateful to TPS for this generous grant,” said Rolando Ramirez, Superintendent of Schools. “The cameras will not only help document important events but will also contribute to a safer, more respectful atmosphere where everyone can focus on learning and growth.” In addition to the body cameras, Southside ISD is also installing new phones in every classroom district-wide. These state-of-the-art devices add an extra layer of security by enabling quick and effective
Chief Don Berger wearing new bodycam.
Up close image of the new bodycams at Southside ISD.
MECC teacher Christina Vaca testing out new district phones.
EMPOWERING PARENTS THROUGH POSITIVE PARENTING AT MENCHACA
Throughout the fall semester, Southside ISD elementary parents participated in the Triple P Positive Parenting classes at Menchaca ECC, available in both English and Spanish, where they gained valuable insights into addressing a variety of common parenting challenges. The program covered a range of topics, including strategies for managing disobedience, fighting, and aggression, as well as tips for establishing smooth bedtime routines. Parents also learned effective approaches to make mealtimes more enjoyable with hassle-free eating techniques and discovered practical solutions to simplify grocery shopping with their children. These sessions provided actionable tools and guidance, empowering parents to foster healthier relationships with their children while reducing daily stress. The bilingual format ensured that families from all backgrounds could fully benefit from the program’s resources.
In addition to the core topics covered, the Triple P Positive Parenting classes also emphasized building stronger, more positive connections between parents and children. Parents learned how to create consistent routines and reinforce positive behaviors, fostering an environment of trust and mutual respect. The program encouraged open discussions about the emotional and developmental needs of children, helping parents better understand their kids’ perspectives. With a focus on practical solutions, parents were guided on how to manage everyday challenges with less frustration and a reduction in power struggles. The inclusive nature of the classes allowed parents to share their experiences and connect with others facing similar challenges, creating a supportive community where everyone could learn and grow together. By the end of the semester, parents felt more confident in their parenting skills, equipped with new tools to build stronger, more positive family dynamics.
PLATICAS PODEROSAS & TELPAS NIGHT AT GALLARDO ELEMENTARY
Gallardo’s bilingual Administrator, Carla Escamilla, led the Platicas Poderosas/TELPAS night for our bilingual families. Platicas Poderosa was a vibrant gathering that brought together the bilingual community. The event featured informative sessions, engaging discussions, and opportunities for networking among families. Parents learned about the resources available to support their children's bilingual education and how to navigate the challenges that may arise. As part of the event, parents were informed about the Texas English Language Proficiency Assessment System (TELPAS), which assesses the English language proficiency of bilingual students. Parents were able to practice the TELPAS test using the TEA website which allowed parents first hand experience of the test. Bilingual students also surprised parents with a Hispanic Heritage Living Wax Museum. We had personalities such as Cesar Chavez, Selena, Frida Kahlo, Emiliano Zapata, El Chavo del Ocho, and many more. We look forward to future events that continue to strengthen our community and celebrate the rich diversity of our school.
Student Isabel Zavala Moncayo from Gallardo Elementary.
ELEMENTARY SNAPSHOT
HERITAGE ELEMENTARY GETS
A CLOSER LOOK FROM
Heritage Elementary caught the eye of two Northside ISD teachers, who are working on their Masters degrees, on ways to help improve their school's scores. The two educators work at John Glenn Elementary, a campus previously rated C on the state accountability system. They are also on the city's west side, with demographics similar to Southside ISD's. The reading and math specialists, Priscilla Mendez and April Flores, contacted Principal Elise Puente when they learned Heritage received an A in the State Accountability System in 2023. Heritage is still highly successful in testing and academic scores, so the ladies wanted to know their secret. "We are honored that they are here, and we are excited to be able to help. We are all educators and want our students to get the best education," says Elise Puente, who has been the principal there for over a decade. Flores agrees that collaborating with fellow educators is smart, "We are working together; we have to look beyond our borders to help our students succeed."
NISD TEACHERS
A NIGHT OF EXPLORATION AND CREATIVITY AT PEARCE
Pearce campus officer Ruben Cardenas goes above and beyond his regular scheduled duties as he presents to Pearce students each month about various safety and security topics. Students enjoyed learning about Halloween safety tips in October and anti-bully awareness in November.
THE PAJAMA TREE AT FREEDOM: A WARM GESTURE OF KINDNESS
In a heartwarming initiative to support students in need, Freedom Elementary has a "Pajama Tree." Located in the front office, the tree is decorated with paper ornaments each bearing the size needed and if it's for a boy or a girl. All students who are chosen could benefit from a new pair of cozy pajamas this winter and can wear them on the next pajama day.
The Pajama Tree is a discreet and compassionate way for the community to come together and make a difference. Families, staff, and even local businesses are encouraged to pick an ornament, purchase a pair of pajamas, and return them wrapped or unwrapped to the school front office.
This effort not only helps provide warmth but also shows the power of kindness and generosity. The Pajama Tree reminds everyone that small acts of giving can bring comfort and joy to those who need it most. Freedom Elementary has been doing this act of kindness for the last 9 years.
Teachers from Northside ISD meeting with Principal Puente and Assistant Principal Bernal.
Rising Stars: Middle School Robotics Team Grows
in Confidence and Skill
Matthey Middle School Robotics Team is making impressive strides, thanks to the dedication of its talented students and the support of a SISD Education Foundation Grant. Two years ago, this funding launched the team’s exciting journey, and today, the robotics program is still thriving under the leadership of sponsor Mr. Justin Buckner.
With a total of 8 students, the team is composed of two groups–one representing 7th grade and the other 8th grade. Their shared goal is to build two fully functioning robots to showcase their work at team exhibitions later this school year. This marks a significant milestone for the team, as this is the first year they have successfully constructed a moving robot.
For these young innovators, the journey to this point has been filled with hard work, problem solving, and creativity. Through their club participation, students are not only learning about robotics and engineering but also developing critical skills in teamwork, communication, and perseverance. Whether it’s brainstorming solutions to technical challenges or testing their robot, the team members have embraced the process of learning and growing together.
“This year’s team has been amazing,” said Mr. Buckner, who has been guiding the students through each stage of the robot-building process. “The critical thinking skills they have shown have changed the game.”
Though the team’s goal for this year is to showcase their robots in exhibitions, these students have their eye on the prize. Next year, the team plans to take their skills to the next level by revealing their talents in out-of-district-tournaments.
It’s clear this is just the beginning for our Matthey Robotics Team. With a strong foundation in place from their sponsor and their budding confidence, there’s no telling how far they will go!
Around the World Visit From Kyrgyzstan
The cultural knowledge at Losoya Middle School was expanded by a visit from special guests from around the world. Foreign Exchange students from different parts of the world, including Switzerland, Germany, and Kyrgyzstan visited Losoya to put on a presentation to help our students learn about Kyrgyzstan.
Our students learned about the history, cultural symbols, folklore, music, art, and dance of the people of Kyrgyzstan. Everyone learned a basic dance and were treated to an awesome performance of the traditional Kyrgyz instrument called the Komuz.
L-R Madalynn Navarro, Mila Martinez, and Christopher Lira
Losoya students and Band Director Eric Wells learning a special dance.
HIGH SCHOOL SNAPSHOT
SOUTHSIDE HIGH SCHOOL STUDENTS LEAD THE WAY IN HOSPITALITY AND TOURISM EXCELLENCE
Southside High School is paving the way for future entrepreneurs and leaders in the global Hospitality and Tourism industry. Ms. Norma A. Marquez's Practicum Hospitality class was invited to represent the district with ten centerpieces at the Bexar County Education Coalition conference where students were praised for their craftsmanship. Also, there was much admiration for the balloon bouquets that were displayed at the NHS induction ceremony last month. Not only were our students asked to decorate, but they also played a key role in the Dia de los Muertos commemoration by having numerous ofrendas or altars. Students not only decorate within the district at events, but they also give back to the community by visiting the San Antonio Food Bank and helping to feed 600 families in a day's visit. We are very proud of the Hospitality and Tourism students for all that they do to make our campus and events memorable.
SOUTHSIDE HIGH AV STUDENTS EXPLORE NBA GAME PRODUCTION
Southside High School AV students recently toured the Frost Bank Center, home of the San Antonio Spurs, for an exclusive behindthe-scenes look at NBA game production. During the visit, they learned how every detail of the Spurs vs. New Orleans game, from setup to the final buzzer, is meticulously planned. The team also shared insights on the importance of adaptability when things don’t go as planned
Students explored the various roles involved in creating the high-energy atmosphere at the arena and how these skills apply to other events like soccer games and concerts. Dolly Hernandez noted, “I didn’t even know they had a mic for the backboard to get the swoosh sound,” and Vanessa Aguilar marveled at the teamwork required to make everything look good. The students were impressed by the scale of operations, including the six-hour process to clean up after each event. The trip gave them valuable insight into the hard work and collaboration that goes into producing world-class events, inspiring them to apply these lessons to their own AV projects.
Students and staff at SHS after volunteering at the SA Food Bank.
Ms. Marquez and student Amerie Rivera.
IN CASE YOU MISSED IT
SOUTHSIDE VARSITY GIRLS CROSS COUNTRY TEAM WINS DISTRICT CHAMPIONSHIP
Congratulations to the Southside High School Varsity Girls Cross Country team for winning the District Team Championship. Our talented girls clinched the 28-5A District Championship and are advancing to regionals.
Members include: Emarald Aguirre, Gabrielle Carreon, Ariana Carreon, Itzel Chavez, Jasslyne Rodriguez, Bethany Iniguez-Morales, and Kimberly Rubio
Emarald Aguirre Earns Top 60 Finish at State Meet as a Freshman
Congratulations to Emarald Aguirre on her impressive performance at the State Meet this weekend in Round Rock, Texas! Competing against 148 elite runners from across the state, she secured an outstanding 60th place with a time of 19:52 70 As a freshman, Emarald’s achievement is a remarkable honor, showcasing her talent and dedication while representing Southside ISD We look forward to witnessing her bright future ahead!
Matthey Football Teams Are Zone Champions After an Incredible Season
Congratulations to the Matthey 7th and 8th grade football teams on an outstanding season, earning the title of Zone Champions for the first time in six years! The 7th grade team showcased grit and skill, including a thrilling comeback against Somerset and a strong defensive win over Floresville The 8th grade team bounced back from an early challenge with a key victory over Dwight Middle School, finishing strong. Both teams displayed exceptional teamwork, determination, and sportsmanship. We're incredibly proud of their achievements and character. A big thank you to the coaching staff —Coach Corona, Coach Del Valle, Coach Guzman, Coach Mayberry, Coach Rizo, and Coach Sendejo for their leadership and commitment.
SOUTHSIDE ISD STUDENTS LEARN STEAM AND SUSTAINABILITY AT BAMBERGER RANCH PRESERVE
Several students from four elementary schools in Southside ISD stayed at the Bamberger Ranch Preserve for 2 nights and 3 days. Students were exposed to a variety of STEAM-related activities. At Bamberger Ranch, their mission is to teach ethical land stewardship by example and outreach. This was a great learning opportunity for our students and inspired them to change consumption habits and learn how to better conserve natural resources The experience was covered by a $30,000 grant secured by Dr Sam Ebong SISD's STEAM Coordinator This is the second time the district has benefited from this program this year.
SOUTHSIDE CULINARY ARTS STUDENTS AWARDED $600 SCHOLARSHIP FROM TEXAS CHEFS ASSOCIATION
Chef Angel Machado and the SHS Culinary Arts students were the proud recipients of a $600 scholarship from the Texas Chefs Association. Chef John Munoz, who is also a professor at Alamo Community Colleges and helps our dual credit students with their classes, presented the check along with a sponsor from Groomers Seafood and Chef Anthony Cubit. SHS Chef Machado says this class of students has proven to be very impressive, with at least one student being accepted this year into the Culinary Institute of America so far this year, Landon Tatman.
Pearce students enjoying their new creation.
Freedom students participating in experiment. Heritage students learning outdoors.
Gallardo students showing their findings.
BANDS ACROSS SOUTHSIDE ISD ARE
MAKING NOISE
MATTHEY BAND STUDENTS EARN SPOTS IN TMEA MS REGION 11 HONOR BAND
Congratulations to the Matthey Band students who auditioned on November 9, 2024, and earned a spot in the TMEA MS Region 11 Honor Band! These dedicated students have been preparing since August, committing countless hours to perfect their skills in anticipation of this event. They competed against talented musicians from other school districts for the opportunity to secure a chair in the prestigious Region 11 Honor Band.
Pictured from left to right:
Zariah Brazil – Clarinet Alternate
Christopher Lira 6th chair – Trumpet – Band 2
Sydney Gutierrez 2nd Chair Flute – Band 2
Danika Vasquez-Benavides 4th chair – Alto Saxophone –Band 2
Michael Horner – Trumpet – Alternate (not pictured)
The students will be representing Matthey MS in the 2024 TMEA Region 11 Clinic/Concert to be held at Somerset ISD Performing Arts Center on November 15 & 16, 2024.
LOSOYA
MIDDLE SCHOOL
REPRESENTED AT TMEA REGION 11 ALL-REGION BAND
Five talented students from Losoya Middle School represented our district at the TMEA Region 11 All-Region Band Clinic and Concert. These students performed exceptionally well and gained valuable insights and skills from their experienced clinicians.
Congratulations to the following students:
Jorge Zavala-Moncayo, Trombone, Band 1
Abram Macias, Percussion, Band 1
Tomas Teniente, Clarinet, Band 2
Rodrigo Avila, Clarinet, Band 2
Nathan Lopez, Euphonium, Band 2
MIGHTY CARDINAL BAND UIL SUPERIOR RATING
On October 19th, the Southside High School Mighty Cardinal Band competed in UIL region marching contest at DW Rutledge stadium. The band earned unanimous ratings of "1: Superior" from each of the three judges.
Cristian Rodriguez won 10th chair in the Region 11 Honor Choir.
CELEBRATING CHOIR SUCCESS AT SOUTHSIDE HIGH SCHOOL
Congratulations to Senior Choir member Jaren Alvarado from Southside High School for earning a prestigious spot in the Texas Music Educators Association’s Region 11 Choir on Saturday, September 28th. The competition took place at Wagner High School, with 18 area high schools participating. Jaren proudly represented Southside High School on November 2nd where he performed with the Region 11 Choir at East Central High School. A huge congratulations to Jaren and all the Cardinal Choir members who participated in this competition. For full band accolades visit southsideisd.org
