CARDINAL
BOARD OF TRUSTEES
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 Cardinals,
As we reflect on the incredible journey of this past year, it is evident that Southside ISD has experienced remarkable growth and achievement. We have much
to celebrate, from our high school culinary team's historic triumph at the Annual Paella Competition to statewide recognition from the Texas Education Agency (TEA) for our district-wide improvements. This is just the beginning of an exciting voyage for us all.
Behind every success story lies the unwavering support of our community. Your dedication and commitment to our district has been instrumental in our progress.
The safety and well-being of our students remains paramount, and the various safety measures implemented with your support have made a tangible difference in our school environment. As we continue to prioritize security, we are actively introducing additional safety protocols across our campuses to enhance the safety of our students and staff.
As Southside ISD continues to evolve and expand, we rely on your support to nurture and strengthen our vibrant community. With each graduating senior class, we witness the culmination of years of hard work and dedication. We are immensely proud of our students and grateful for the teachers who have guided them along their journey.
As we look ahead to the upcoming 2024-2025 school year, we do so with enthusiasm and anticipation. Together, as part of the Cardinal family, we will embark on another year of growth, learning, and achievement.
Thank you for your unwavering support and commitment to the success of Southside ISD.
Southside ISD's Top 10%
VALEDICTORIAN SALUTATORIAN
ALAN PATINO CASANDRA CANTU
MARIAH
MARISSA RODRIGUEZ
ABIGAIL
ARIANA AGUILAR
RICARDO DELGADO
CONGRATULATIONS SOUTHSIDE HS CLASS OF 2024
CONGRATULATIONS SOUTHSIDE HS CLASS OF 2024
CONGRATULATIONS SOUTHSIDE HS CLASS OF 2024
CONGRATULATIONS SOUTHSIDE HS CLASS OF 2024
UZZIEL TORRES
ANTHONY VEGAHOFF
ALEXANDER ZEPEDA
CONGRATULATIONS SOUTHSIDE HS CLASS OF 2024
EDWARD TORRES DE LA ROSA
EDGAR VILLA-MARTINEZ
JOHNATHAN ZERTUCHE
ROBERTO TOVAR
ALEXA VILLA VAZQUEZ
NATHAN ZERTUCHE
EZEKIEL TREVINO
NEVAEHA VILLARREAL
ALIZE ZUNIGA-ALMENDAREZ
U’VIA TREVINO
JORGE VALADEZ NOAH VAN AUSDALL ESTRELLA VARGAS
VASQUEZ JR
VASQUEZ
DANIEL WHEELOCK
RAYMOND WADE JULIANNA WILSON
ERIK ZAMARRIPA JR
NICHOLAS ZAMORA
JOSHUA ZAMORA CANTU
NOT PHOTOGRAPHED: BRYAN ALDAY, TRINITY AVILA, DAYSE BARAJAS-PATINO, VANESSA BAYSINGER, JOSE BAZAN, CRYSTAL CAMARILLO, GABRIELA DAVIS, JOSHUA DELEOS, ZAYLI DURAN REYES, ANDREA ESCOBEDO RACHEAL FERNANDEZ ASHLY FLORES ABCEDE GARCIA DANNIA GARZA ISAAC GUTIERREZ ISAIAH GUTIERREZ ISMAEL HERNANDEZ JR MUNSHI HOSSAIN ANGEL HUERTA BRANDEN INTAKEO, JORDAN LOMAS, EDWIN LOPEZ, DELILAH MANCHA, ASHLEY MARTINEZ, JASMINE MARTINEZ, JEREMY MENDEZ, ABRIL MENDOZA, MAKAYLA MENDOZA, AMBER MONSIVAIS, LORENZO MOORECUELLAR, JOVANY MORALES, CHRISTA MORENO, JOSHUA MORENO, STEPHANIE PUENTE, MIA REYES, ANGEL R RODRIGUEZ ANGELINA RODRIGUEZ, WALTER RUEDA, JOSE RUELAS-CASTANON, CAYDEN SANCHEZ, EVAN TAMEZ, EMILY TARIN, JULISSA TERRAZAS, NAYELI TERRAZAS, KLARIBEL VARA, JAIDEN VASQUEZ LOPEZ, JACOB VEGA, MIA VENTURA, JASMIN VILLARREAL, WILLIAM WALLE, ANDREW WEST, ELIJAH WHITSON, DOMINGO YBARRA, AND GAVIN ZARATE
Southside Independent School District was beaming with pride as they announced a visit from the Texas Education Agency’s Commissioner of Education, Michael Morath. This significant event not only highlights Southside’s influential role in shaping the future of education, but it is also a testament to the dedication and hard work of its exceptional students and staff.
The district's commitment to academic achievement, community engagement, growth, and rise from a low-performing school to a shining example of excellence in the state caught the attention of state-level leaders, hence Commissioner Morath's prestigious visit to Southside.
"This visit from Commissioner Morath is a profound acknowledgment of the remarkable progress and accomplishments achieved by Southside ISD," remarked Rolando Ramirez, Superintendent of Southside ISD. "It speaks volumes
about the relentless dedication of our students, educators, administrators, and support staff, who consistently go above and beyond to ensure success for every learner."
Southside ISD recognizes that none of this would have been possible without the support of its students, staff, parents, and the broader community. Their collective encouragement, involvement, and commitment to the district's mission have propelled Southside ISD to new heights of achievement and recognition.
Commissioner Morath's visit is a symbol of affirmation and encouragement, emphasizing the tireless efforts of the students, educators, administrators, and support staff within the Southside ISD community. SISD remains steadfast in its commitment to fostering a culture of excellence, equity, and opportunity for all.
As the district prepared for this momentous occasion, the spirit of pride and celebration resonated throughout the Southside ISD community, illuminating a bright future filled with limitless possibilities for every student.
SOUTHSIDE TEACHER RETIRES AFTER 54 YEARS IN EDUCATION
ELIVIRA BASCO SERVED SOUTHSIDE ISD FOR 21 YEARS
really want to help them. Because my thinking is [that,] these kids need some background knowledge about math, which they can bring in their real life It is not just me teaching the subject for passing the test, but I am preparing them for the future.”
“I couldn’t believe it. America! What is America?” Ms. Elvira Basco laughs as she recounts how she got to the United States “My sister said, why don’t you try it, and I said, No, I am afraid Am I able to? Am I really worth it to be an American? I said I don’t know She said, just try it.”
Ms. Basco, the eldest of three children, grew up in the Philippines on her father’s farm, where they grew coffee, beans, and rice, and she learned to plant seeds Basco attended Notre Dame University, taking both Math and General Science Biology is her love, which explains her passion for plants. “I talk to them,” she giggles. She plants Filipino vegetables in her backyard, mostly because you cannot find them here in the United States
After teaching at schools in the Philippines for 13 years, Basco applied to be a teacher in Texas In the late 1990s, a program in Texas to increase the number of qualified science and math teachers recruited her, and her first job was at La Joya ISD in the Valley near McAllen
“I really cherish the days when I am in school with all the challenges that I see with students But, despite that, I just
She admits it can be discouraging to prepare students when it seems they become more cynical by the minute “Sometimes there are students who say, 'Miss, when are we going to use Algebra?’ ‘Why do we have Algebra?’ So I give them examples, ‘Okay, you are an athlete ’ ‘Yes, miss ’ ‘When you throw the ball, how high will the ball go? That is math Did you know that this is a parabola?’” She said the student was in awe of the lesson and that inspires her.
She also inspires most of her colleagues at Losoya Middle
School, where Ms. Basco will retire after 21 years at Southside ISD There are countless stories of her generosity and her cooking! From Matthey Middle School, where she started at Southside, to the far corners of the district, she is known for her Filipino Lumpias, which are like small egg rolls. While many people will miss her cooking, she says, “I will miss the kids ”
She has this advice for educators: “Never give up ” And for first-time teachers, she advises, “Bear with these students because behaviors and attitudes are changing all the time. But, bear with them... [have] a lot of patience If I stayed this long, they can do it ”
Ms Basco reflected on how much she influenced students after 54 years in education We took a moment and, yes, did the math -more than 2,220 students have sat in a classroom with Ms. Basco. More than 2,220 students' lives have been affected and shaped by a woman who says, “I believe I [was] sent by God to be here helping these kids, no matter what.”
Now, she says she is meant to go home to the Philippines and tend to the family farm The farm where she learned to plant seeds Make no mistake, she planted many seeds here at Southside, both professionally and personally, which is why many have grown to love her.
EARLY CHILDHOOD & ELEMENTARY SNAPSHOT
MENCHACA EARLY CHILDHOOD CENTER OFFICER HONORED FOR OUTSTANDING SERVICE IN SCHOOL SAFETY
Ensuring safety is our top priority here at Southside ISD. Menchaca Early Childhood Center has demonstrated its unwavering commitment to this goal by nominating Police Officer Michelle Contreras for a big safety award. We are proud to announce that Officer Contreras has been honored with the Outstanding Individual Service Award by the Texas School Safety Spotlight Program for her exceptional dedication to maintaining a secure environment at MECC.
ATTENDANCE MATTERS AT GALLARDO ELEMENTARY
By Gabriella Mae Vargas (4th Grade Student at Gallardo Elementary)
"Ring! Ring!" My alarm goes off Despite feeling tired, I know I have to get up and go to school because ATTENDANCE MATTERS Missing school means missing out on important work, as N Valdez can attest: "I feel rushed because the work continues to pile up, and I feel upset with my grade because I know I can do better " So, it's crucial to prioritize school over other activities to avoid falling behind
Affecting Your Grade
To succeed in school, good attendance is key. Kayden Bartlett explains, "When I am absent I miss work and that has an impact on my grades because I need to catch up with my work." Missing school not only affects your grades but also steals time from activities you enjoy.
Attendance Goal
Setting goals for attendance can help you succeed Try going to bed early, scheduling appointments after school, planning vacations during breaks, staying healthy, getting involved in school activities, and connecting with friends, faculty, and staff Remember, attendance matters for your success and well-being
CELEBRATING GOOD CHARACTER AT FREEDOM ELEMENTARY
At Freedom Elementary we strive to not only grow a child's knowledge through rigorous instruction, but we also work to teach good character skills to help mold them to be caring, productive, and responsible citizens in the community. Each month we focus on a different character trait such as: courage, respect, responsibility, kindness, honesty, and so on. Each month we hold a pep rally called the Cardinal Care Pep Rally where we celebrate students by recognizing many things like our intramural sport players, grade level spirit
contests, and awarding students for AR (Reading) points. Most importantly, at this rally we recognize students who have shown exceptional character for the month. These students are nominated by the classroom teachers. Teachers write a description on why their student is deserving of the character award. These descriptions are read aloud, and students are presented with a medal and certificate at the rally. It is a complete surprise as to which students will win. We also invite families of the children receiving these awards. The families get to hear the presentations and be present for their child as they are recognized in front of the student body and staff at Freedom Elementary. These rallies are always such fun events with lots of laughter and smiles. It’s just another example of how Freedom Elementary works to develop a child’s mind, body, heart, and spirit.
Students from Freedom with their Cardinal Care Award.
Fourth Grade Student Gabriella Mae Vargas.
Police Officer Michelle Contreras.
ELEMENTARY SNAPSHOT
HERITAGE ELEMENTARY STUDENTS SHINE WITH GRANT FROM
SOUTHSIDE EDUCATION FOUNDATION
Heritage Elementary recently received a grant from the Southside Education Foundation, sparking a wave of creativity among its students. Each student received a journal, while teachers got themed books. After immersive read-aloud sessions, students penned their own stories. The excitement culminated in an "Open Mic Event," where students shared their tales with peers, staff, and families. From talking animals to tales of resilience, the event showcased the vibrant imagination of Heritage Elementary's students, thanks to the grant.
A NIGHT OF EXPLORATION AND CREATIVITY AT PEARCE
What a night to remember at Pearce Elementary's April STEAM Night! Students and families came together for an evening filled with exploration, creativity, and unforgettable memories. The halls of Pearce Elementary were transformed into a stunning gallery as students proudly displayed their artwork. Paintings, drawings, and sculptures adorned the walls, each piece a testament to the talent and creativity of our students.
Our young architects and engineers showcased their creativity as they built towering structures and intricate sculptures with LEGO bricks. The energy in the room was electric as imaginations soared!
From sleek designs to daring flights, the paper airplane races were a highlight of the night! Cheers filled the air with each successful flight, showcasing the power of experimentation and teamwork.
Families were captivated by the live animal exhibits, getting up close and personal with a variety of creatures. From slithering snakes to fluffy rabbits, each animal sparked a sense of wonder and appreciation for the natural world.
Students Aitana Pacheco Dominguez and Jaxon Carr reading their short story at Heritage’s Open Mic Event.
Pearce student, Loretta Solis, learning about a snake from NHS member, Annabelle Alvardado from Southside High School.
Matthey Middle School Esports Club: Thriving with Principal Leadership and Counselor Sponsorship
Matthey Middle School's Esports Club is not just a gaming initiative, it's a testament to the school's commitment to student success. Under the guidance of Principal Miguel Martell and with the sponsorship of School Counselor Mr. Fernando Alvarado, the club has flourished, providing students with a platform to excel both academically and competitively. Principal Martell's vision for a dynamic and inclusive school community has been pivotal in the growth of the esports club. His unwavering support, from the inception of the club to its current success, has created an environment where students feel encouraged to explore their interests and talents fully.
Complementing Principal Martell's leadership is the sponsorship of Mr. Alvarado, whose dedication to student welfare extends beyond his role as a counselor. Mr. Alvarado's commitment to providing diverse opportunities for student growth led to the acquisition of a $3,000 grant from the Southside ISD Education Foundation, a crucial catalyst for the club's development.
Beyond individual achievements, the club has fostered a sense of community and camaraderie among its members. Through regular practice sessions, strategy discussions, and friendly matches, students have forged meaningful connections and developed invaluable teamwork and problem-solving skills.
Behind the Curtain: Celebrating Excellence in Losoya Middle School's Production of “The Honorable Urashima Taro”
The Losoya Middle School Theatre Department recently performed their one Act play, "The Honorable Urashima Taro” under the Direction of Anthony Tejeda. This amazing production showcased the acting talent of Isaiah Barajas, Adalee Tejeda, Emily Robles, Leonidas Polendo, and fifteen supporting roles. The beautiful costumes were created by the Losoya Sewing Club under the guidance of Rebecca Magana and Maria Burchell. The stage props used by the actors were designed, created, and painted by Ms. Priscilla Garcia's Art 3 class. The special effects bubbles, fog, and special lighting were designed and incorporated into the production by students Caleb Traeger and Thomas Padilla. The script contains over six thousand words that were meticulously characterized, memorized, and articulated through the art of acting.
Students Damon Gibbs (forefront) and Michael Horner at esports club practice.
Students in costume for school play, “The Honorable Urashima Taro.”
Close up of students in their costumes created by Losoya Sewing Club.
SOUTHSIDE HIGH SCHOOL'S
RETURN TO COMPETITIVE ROBOTICS: A JOURNEY OF DEDICATION AND ACHIEVEMENT
This school year, Southside High School re-embarked into the world of competitive robotics for the first time since 2018. SHS Cardinal Chaos, Team 9524, competed in Belton and San Antonio, TX over Spring Break and came away with a wealth of knowledge and inspiration, as well as the Rookie Inspiration Award. The FIRST Robotics Competition is a six-week-long challenge for high school students that aims to engage young people in science, technology, engineering, and math (STEM) to inspire the next generation of innovators and leaders. It pits schools across the nation against each other in friendly competition that involves obstacles and objective completion through the use of robots that the students build at the start of the competitive season. The students devoted their time and energy multiple times a week, after school and on weekends, to make sure that their robot was competition-ready. If it wasn't for the massive support from parents, mentors, sponsors, and the school, this would have never come to fruition.
COVER STORY: CULINARY PROGRAM RECEIVES PRESTIGIOUS AWARD
Today marks a historic milestone for Southside ISD as its culinary program has been honored with the prestigious United States Congressional Achievement Recognition. This is a great honor, that helps recognize their victory at the Annual Paella Competition, clinching 1st place As a result, they've earned a fully paid trip to New York City, where they will have the opportunity to visit one of the nation's top culinary schools.
At the helm of this exceptional achievement is a dedicated leader, Chef Angel Machado, who has guided a group of outstanding young culinarians toward excellence. Their hard work, passion, and culinary expertise have not only brought them recognition but have also captured the hearts of many.
Thank you to our representatives from Congressional District 28 and State House District 181. And we cannot forget our Southside community; they have been instrumental in our achievements.
Cardinal Chaos hard at work doing maintenance on their robot.
Cardinal Chaos posing with their robot at competition.
Culinary students and Chef Machado posing with their congressional award.
Chef Machado and culinary students: Angel Ruiz, Valeria Luna, Landon Tatman, Haeli Acosta, Johnny Martinez, Rene Galan.
SOUTHSIDE ISD EDUCATION FOUNDATION CELEBRATES $1.3
MILLION MILESTONE AND 2024 SCHOLARSHIP WINNERS
The Southside ISD Education Fo these funds have gone to scho enrich the lives of as many So initiatives and to give students a
This year the Foundation is prou
Natalia Torres
$5,000
Sairé Casares $3,500
A'Ronn Stuart $2,500
Daniella Walker $2,500
Alan Patino $1,500
Scotte J. Montemayor $1,500
Hannah Ramirez $1,000
Jose Rodriguez $1,000
Andrea Orantes $750
Camila Ojeda $750
Congratulations to these studen
CELEBRATING SOUTHSIDE ISD'S TOP STUDENTS AND THEIR ACADEMIC GROWTH
Congratulations to our Top Students at each campus at Southside ISD. Their academic success was recognized at the May 15th Board Meeting with the Board of Trustees and the SISD Superintendent Rolando Ramirez on hand. Each student was given a computer for their achievement
The Superintendent works with the Southside ISD Education Foundation (SEF) to outline initiatives and goals to achieve academic excellence at Southside ISD. One of his initiatives is an incentive to honor outgoing students from each campus. It started in May 2021 and is funded through the SISD Education Foundation fundraising efforts.
Since this initiative was started, academic growth has been evident across all spectrums at SISD. We are grateful to the Foundation for providing such impactful incentives.
Southside senior, Natalia Torres holding her check with members of SISD Board and the SISD Education Foundation.
2024 Top Students for Each Campus: MECC - Ava Lopez and Achilles Salcido, Gallardo Elementary - Younas Nawaz and Allyson Rodriguez, Pearce Elementary - Jaimie and Omar Saso, Hertitage Elementary - Eduardo Adauta and (2nd place tie) Aaliyah Pesina/Leonel Ochoa-Cano, Freedom Elementary - Rosalynda Gomez and Maggie Navarro, Matthey Middle School - Jacob Barnes and Derek Medina Reyes, Losoya Middle School - Santiago Castro Avila and Clarissa Cano, Southside High School - Valedictorian Alan Patino and Saluditorian Cassandra Cantu.
SOUTHSIDE ISD STUDENTS EMBRACE COSMIC LEARNING DURING RARE SOLAR ECLIPSE
Southside ISD participated in a once-in-a-lifetime event on April 8th this year. It was a total solar eclipse that swept all of San Antonio. Although it was a pretty cloudy day for students on the south side of the coverage area, many were still excited: "I could not see the actual eclipse, but it was pretty freaky to see the sun go away and the day turned dark," said one high school student standing in the courtyard.
STEAM coordinator Dr. Sam Ebong, who was out with several other administrators at SHS, said that even if we had heavy cloud coverage, the students got a science lesson, which was just as powerful as the cosmic event.
All 6,000+ students and staff were outfitted with safe, approved ISO-rated glasses, which PNJ Solar helped fund.
Students at Pearce Elementary with their teacher Debbie DeHoyos Gonzales. Students at Southside High School looking at the Solar Eclipse.
Students at Gallardo Elementary enjoying the solar eclipse.
Students at Menchaca Early Childhood Center viewing the solar eclipse.
SPRING BAND HIGHLIGHTS
Colorguard Contests
Three 1st place finishes, two 2nd place finishes, and 1st place in championships!
Solo and Ensemble Contests
47 1st division medalists, 3 small ensembles qualifying for state contest, and 7 soloists qualifying for state contest.
UIL Concert and Sight Reading
RED JACKETS DANCE TEAM SHINES AT NATIONALS
The Red Jackets Dance Team did exceptionally well at Nationals in Galveston, Texas on March 23rd. At the Crowd Pleasers National Dance Contest, the Red Jackets won first place with their Kick Routine, second place with their Hip-Hop routine, and fourth place with their Pom routine. The Red Jackets placed third overall in their division (Classic small team.) Their strong work ethic, dedication, and talent contributed to their winning season!
1st division “straight ones” in both concert and sight reading for symphonic band and wind ensemble.
CARDINAL SPRING SPORTS
Rincon.