Horizons is the magazine for the Sunnyvale Independent School District Its purpose is to provide parents and students of SISD and other Town of Sunnyvale residents with useful information about SISD. It has a press run of 3,200 and is mailed to the same audience via postal carrier route through bulk mail delivery. Horizons is published three times annually by the Sunnyvale ISD Communications and Marketing Department.
Articles are written by Director of Communications and Marketing Emily Henvey.
Graphic Design is by Kristin Odom. Photography is by Emily Henvey and the staff, students and community of Sunnyvale ISD. For questions about Horizons, please call 972-226-5974.
SISD BOARD OF TRUSTEES
Mr. Brad Cravens, PRESIDENT
Mrs. Linda Gooch, VICE PRESIDENT
Mr. Michael Threet, J.D., LL.M., SECRETARY
Mr. Ben Wright
Dr. Pollye Hunter, PT, DPT
Mr. Kelleyton Wilson, Sr.
Mrs. Lee Mathew, RN, MSN, MBA, NEA-BC
Town of Sunnyvale
Sunnyvale ISD enjoys a strong partnership with the Town of Sunnyvale.
Please contact Town Hall at 972-226-7177 or www.townofsunnyvale.org.
Facebook @sunnyvaletx
Twitter @TownofSunnyvale
Instagram @ townofsunnyvaletx
Mayor Mr. Saji George mayor.george@townofsunnyvale.org
Town Manager Mr. Jeff Jones jeff.jones@townofsunnyvale.org
MATT KIMBALL
Welcome back to the Raider Nation!
There is nothing like the excitement of a new school year. We are excited to welcome more than 2,200 Raiders and their families to the 2025-2026 school year. This back to school edition of Horizons is your all-in-one guide to getting your year off to a great start. Whether you are a returning Raider or just joining Sunnyvale ISD, we welcome you to a district built on a strong tradition of excellence, community and school spirit.
Inside, we are turning up the school spirit. Don’t miss our special spread on pages 6 and 7, packed with everything you need to know to show your Raider pride and be game-day ready. Meet our mascot, Rowdy, learn the alma mater and fight song, and discover more ways to celebrate what it means to be a Raider.
You will also find essential information such as campus contacts, school start times, bus app details and more to help you start the year strong. Our new Executive Director of Teaching and Learning, Courtney Sharkey, shares updates on CTE program certifications and highlights student achievements in college readiness on pages 12 -13.
Get to know new SISD staff and see familiar faces in new roles on pages 15-19. Find ways to partner with us and get engaged through our boosters, PTA and the Sunnyvale Education Foundation on pages 14-15. If you have any questions, please reach out to our faculty, staff and parent volunteers.
As you read through Horizons, remember that our greatest strength lies in the people who make up our community. The relationships built with classmates and staff, as well as your drive to get involved and blaze your path, are what define your experience as a Raider. Make this year extraordinary!
• Wear a Helmet: Always wear a properly fitted helmet every ride.
• Be Visible: Use bright or reflective clothes and bike lights or reflectors.
• Check Your Bike: Inspect tires, brakes, and chain before riding.
• Stop and Look: Watch for cars, driveways, and sudden hazards.
• Walk Bike Across Busy Roads: Use crosswalks and follow pedestrian signals.
Rules of the Road
• Ride on the Right: Go with traffic, staying as far right as safely possible.
• Obey Traffic Laws: Stop at signs and lights; follow all road rules.
• Use Hand Signals: Signal turns and stops to others.
• Ride Single File: Stay in line with friends to keep safe and clear the road.
REMEMBER YOUR MOST IMPORTANT SCHOOL SUPPLY: IMMUNIZATIONS
State law requires all students in Texas schools to be immunized against certain vaccine-preventable diseases. Please provide the school nurse with a record of immunizations prior to the first day of the 25-26 school year.
INCOMING 7TH GRADERS: Texas law requires proof of the Tdap (Tetanus, Diphtheria, Pertussis) booster and Meningococcal (MCV4) immunization before student attends school. These vaccines are typically administered around age 11. If your child has already received these immunizations, please send an updated record to their school nurse. If not, contact your healthcare provider or local health department to schedule an appointment. Families with Immunization Exemption must resubmit the Immunization Exemption Form every two years.
WALKING SAFETY TIPS
Top Safety Tips
• Younger children should always walk with an adult.
• For older students, walk with a friend or two whenever possible. Pick a safe route to school that parents have approved. Avoid dangerous intersections when possible and use crosswalks. Stick to the route, even if friends want to take a shortcut.
If strangers offer a ride, say NO. Stay away from unknown cars and people.
Cross the Street Safely
• Watch out for cars and trucks at every driveway and intersection.
• Look for drivers in parked cars. They may be getting ready to move.
• Always wear bright-colored clothes, and if it is dark or hard to see, carry flashlights or wear reflective gear. When near the street, don’t push, shove, or chase.
• Obey traffic signs, signals and crossing guards.
Sunnyvale, Our Sunnyvale, Our faith we pledge to thee. Sunnyvale, Our Sunnyvale, With love and loyalty
Our blue and gold so glorious, Forever stands victorious For dear Sunnyvale, our Sunnyvale Will reign eternally!
FIGHT SONG
GO! RAIDERS! WIN!
Oh when you see that RAIDER blue and gold
You know that victory will be our goal For the RAIDER teams we love so well,
We’re gonna yell and yell and yell, “FIGHT, FIGHT,FIGHT!”
RAIDERS fight for every score,
We’re gonna circle in and win some more
We’re gonna fight to win with all our might
We’re gonna fight ,fight, fight!
OUR MISSION
To engage, equip and empower all learners for life-long success.
OUR MOTTO Four Campuses, One School
RAIDER SPIRIT BATTLE CRY
V-I-C-T-O-R-Y
What’s the Sunnyvale Battle Cry?
V-I-C-T-O-R-Y
That’s the Sunnyvale Battle Cry! Raiders, Raiders, Go Raiders!
DID YOU KNOW?
The Town of Sunnyvale was incorporated in 1953 and covers 17 square miles.
Photos by Avery and Abby Mollett
Stay Connected
SISD OFFERS SEVERAL WAYS FOR PARENTS, STUDENTS, STAFF AND THE COMMUNITY TO STAY CONNECTED TO SISD.
MONITOR YOUR CHILD’S GRADES WITH PARENT PORTAL
Keeping families informed of student progress is a top priority for SISD. To that end, parents can stay informed of student performance by accessing the Parent Portal. Parents new to the district receive an email from your campus registrar with your student’s unique Parent Portal ID. Once you have received the unique ID, you will be able to access your child’s grades and attendance by linking them to your account. You can access the Parent Portal at portals10. ascendertx.com/ParentPortal/login?distid=057979 (all grades).
Contact your campus registrar (page 5) with any questions.
MANAGE YOUR CHILD’S MEALS WITH NUTRISLICE CAFETERIA MENUS AND SCHOOLCAFÉ
It’s easy to find information about cafeteria menus and student account payments. Download the Sunnyvale ISD app, select “Menus” and then select “Cafeteria.” From there, you’ll be able to access our Raider breakfast and lunch menus and load money in your Raider’s lunch account using his or her student ID number. Reach out to Rhonda.Martin@Sunnyvaleisd.com or Robin.Plett@ Sunnyvaleisd.com for any assistance.
DOWNLOAD THE SISD APP TODAY TO GET NEWS AND INFORMATION FROM ANYWHERE
Sunnyvale ISD makes it easy for families to stay connected to teachers, class and district information with the free district app. Access district, school and class information as well as communicate with teachers all in one place. The app allows users to switch between the district news interface and Rooms, where you can find specific class information and teacher contacts for your student. Download the free app by searching for Sunnyvale ISD TX in the app store. Apps may be downloaded to your Apple and Android phone. Rooms may also be accessed on your computer via the web. .
NEW PARENTS AND STUDENTS:
Download the app and wait for SISD to send login and password information directly to the email you used to register with SISD. .
NEW THIS YEAR: Students may see a slight increase on menu prices this year, as recommended by the Texas Department of Agriculture.
EXISTING PARENTS AND STUDENTS: Your Raider’s new classes and teachers will rollover at the beginning of the school year.
Keep up with SISD News and Updates
SISD E-NEWS
SISD’ E-News is delivered straight to your email inbox each Friday—no sign-up or registration required. All families who provide a valid email address during enrollment will automatically receive the district’s e-newsletter. SISD E-News may also be accessed through the district app. To make sure your contact information is up to date, please reach out to your Raider’s campus registrar.
HORIZONS
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THE DISTRICT MAGAZINE OF SUNNYVALE ISD Horizons, the district magazine of Sunnyvale ISD, is published by the SISD Communications Department three times a year (August, December and June), both digitally and in print. The magazine is also available on all district campuses, at the SISD Administration Building and through select local businesses.
SISD BUS COMMUNICATIONS
TOOLS FOR PARENT AND STUDENT
CONVENIENCE
The Viafy Parent app created by Busology Tech, a K-12 bus transportation software company with 30 years of experience, allows Sunnyvale parents to track their Raiders as they travel to and from school via GPS.
Listed as Viafy Parent in app stores, the app notifies parents about bus arrivals or a late bus through app push notifications. Download the Viafy Parent app to access real-time bus tracking, making it easy to always know where your Raider’s bus is. The app is available for Apple and Android phones.
To learn more about Viafy Parent, visit the SISD Transportation page at www. sunnyvaleisd.com/page/transportation.
Please note that custom log-in email will come from Viafy with information sent directly to the e-mail address you have registered with SISD (please check your Spam folder if you do not see the email in your in box). Users who do not receive their login e-mail or who may have questions about transportation or the Viafy Parent app should contact Director of Transportation Todd Staley todd.staley@sunnyvaleisd.com.
YOUR BUS RIDER’S SAFETY IS OUR HIGHEST PRIORITY
All bus riders must sign up on one of two Bus Rider forms - the “Existing Bus Rider” form or the “New Bus Rider” form. Help us make keeping track of all bus riders one step easier.
RAIDER CONNECT 1:1
Sunnyvale ISD’s Raider Connect 1:1 program provides every student in grades 6–12 with a district-issued device for their time in SISD, supporting easy access to learning and promoting responsibility. Devices are provided at no cost to families. Students are accountable for adhering to the District Acceptable Use Agreement.
DEVICE DISTRIBUTION:
• Incoming 6th graders: Pick up devices during August schedule pick-up.
• New 7th–12th graders: Devices will be issued during your first period class (athletics/ band students in second period).
• Returning students: Devices were kept over summer. Make sure they are charged and ready for school!
SISD has implemented GoGuardian, an Internet filtering and monitoring tool, to improve student focus and to protect students while using district-issued technology.
Parents have the ability to monitor students’ Internet activity on school-issued devices during school hours and monitor, filter, and set controls outside of school hours.
KEY FEATURES:
• Top 5 overview of your student’s online activity
• 30-day overview of your student’s online activity
• Teacher interventions view
• Block websites during out-of-school hours
• Pause internet access during out-of-school hours
How to Get GoGuardian
1. APP INSTALL: After downloading and installing the app, open it and enter the parent email address used in Parent Portal.
2. LOGIN/CHECK EMAIL: From your phone, check your email for a login link. Tap “Verify your email,” and the app will open.
3. WATCH VIDEO: Watch this quick overview of the GoGuardian Parent App: https://youtu.be/xqhXAwPaF8Y
FORGOT YOUR EMAIL, NEED TRAINING OR HAVE QUESTIONS? Contact Director of Technology Buck Baskin at buck.baskin@sunnyvaleisd.com
AlphaBEST Extended Day program for after school Grades PreK (4) - 6 | 2025-2026
AlphaBEST gives your kids more than a safe place to do their homework. We engage their minds and expand their horizons. With an innovative, experiential curriculum, we allow kids to decompress from a day in the classroom by appealing to their curious, creative natures.
Run by a high-quality, caring staff, and designed to meet the changing needs of working parents, AlphaBEST
Extended Day includes:
•Art
•Robotics
•Coding
•Drama
• Sign Language
•World Languages & Culture
•Homework Help
•Snacks
•Fitness Activities
•And More!
For hours, locations, rates and online registration, visit: AlphaBEST.org/sunnyvaletx
For questions, contact: customercare@alphabest.org Let the adventure begin with Sunnyvale ISD kids!
Real-World Ready
SUNNYVALE ISD EXPANDS CAREER CERTIFICATION OPPORTUNITIES
Whether designing eye-catching graphics, decoding cyber threats or caring for animals, Sunnyvale High School Raiders are diving into real-world classes that spark their curiosity and prepare them for the future. Career and Technology Education (CTE) courses let students graduate with a diploma and certifications in high-demand fields, opening doors to career opportunities.
“These certifications empower students to turn their interests into career-ready skills before graduation,” Executive Director of Teaching and Learning Courtney Sharkey said. “By graduating with these credentials, students leave high school with a competitive edge in the job market, often qualifying for entry-level roles or internships immediately.”
For the 2025-2026 school year, SHS has expanded its industry certification offerings to include real estate certification through the Practicum in Business course. Piloted last year, this course allows students to work toward their real estate license with access to pre-licensure coursework and exam preparation.
SHS currently offers the following pathways and certifications:
Animal Science Elanco Fundamentals of Animal Science Certification
Culinary AMSA Food Safety and Science Certification
Cybersecurity CompTIA A+
Teaching and Learning Educational Aide I
Engineering Autodesk Certified User: Fusion 360
Government and Public Administration General Management
Graphic Design and Audio/Digital Communications
Adobe Certified Professional in Graphic Design and Illustration
Yearbook – Printing and Imaging: Nocti Graphic Production Technology Certification
Healthcare ECG Technician and Patient Care Technician
Interactive Simulation and Game Technology Level I Game Development Certification issued by Dallas College
Sports Medicine Pre-Professional Certification in Nutrition, Food, and Wellness
As awareness about certification opportunities continues to grow, more SHS students are earning industryrecognized certifications.
Total Certifications Earned in 2024 - 2025
“Offering these certifications helps Sunnyvale ISD remain competitive with surrounding districts and maintain high performance in state evaluations,” Sharkey said.
Also new this school year, the CTE program is building partnerships with local businesses to offer internships, job shadowing and mentorships.
“One of the key goals for Sunnyvale ISD’s CTE program is to begin developing strong partnerships with local businesses to enhance the relevance and impact of our courses,” Sharkey said. “These partnerships will not only help students apply their classroom knowledge in real-world settings but also build a supportive network that can guide them toward future employment, certifications, or continued education after graduation.”
If you are interested in partnering with SISD’s CTE programs, please contact our new Director of Advanced Academics, Accountability and CTE, Sara Staley at sara.staley@ sunnyvaleisd.com. ✹
BACK-TO-SCHOOL READING/ELAR TIPS
FROM SUNNYVALE ISD ELAR INSTRUCTIONAL COORDINATOR RAGAN OSTEEN
Allocate 15 to 20 minutes each day to make reading a part of your routine.
Let your child choose the books. Encourage the love of reading at home by allowing kids to read what they enjoy.
Ask open-ended questions about what your child is reading. For example, "Who is your favorite character and why?" or "What was something that surprised you?"
Be a role model. Let your child see you read and hear you talk about what you are reading.
Encourage creative and expressive writing at home. Whether it is a journal, poetry, short story, or letter, giving children a low-stakes opportunity to write can strengthen their skills and confidence. ✹ 1 2 3 4 5
RAIDERS RISE: SCORES SOAR WITH NEW COLLEGE READINESS INITIATIVES
PSAT
Sunnyvale High School students are seeing impressive growth in college and career readiness, with significant increases in PSAT and SAT scores reported over the past year. Notably, three students scored in the top 2% nationwide on the PSAT with one student earning a perfect score.
This progress is the result of intentional strategies to expand access and support for all students. “The main difference this year was our commitment to testing every 11th grade student,” Executive Director of Teaching and Learning Courtney Sharkey said.
Another key initiative that had a positive, direct impact on scores was the introduction of Khan Academy as a test prep resource. This was launched in collaboration with Sharkey and College, Career and Military Readiness (CCMR) Coordinator Prince Johnson.
SISD also offers additional support for college entrance exams, AP courses and dual credit classes. Students can participate in Saturday workshops, summer boot camps and AP prep days. Additionally, dual credit students have access to a Dallas College student success coach. To support at-risk and ESL students and ensure equitable access, the Texas Success Initiative Assessment is offered multiple times each year.
Looking ahead, Sharkey is excited about a new partnership with Dallas College to offer an Associate Degree pathway. “In the 2025-26 school year, we will be continuing our work of supporting Raiders in their pursuit of future readiness in whatever way best suits their needs,” she said. “We will continue to innovate and collaborate to prepare students for life after high school.” ✹
GET INVOLVED! JOIN ONE OF SISD’S PARENT GROUPS
SUNNYVALE ALUMNI ASSOCIATION
Make your mark on Sunnyvale ISD and be a part of our Legacy Walk! Purchase a personalized brick to show your support and commemorate your days at SISD. Proceeds benefit the Gwinn Blankenship Scholarship Fund. The Legacy Walk is located near the entrance of Raider Stadium.
RAIDER ATHLETICS BOOSTER CLUB
Booster Club memberships are no longer offered. Instead, support Sunnyvale Athletics through fundraisers and sponsorship opportunities tailored to each program’s needs throughout the year. All concession stand proceeds will continue to flow through Booster Club funds to benefit Raider Athletics.
RAIDER PRIDE BAND BOOSTER CLUB
It’s time for the 7th Annual Raider Pride Band March-a-Thon! Join us on August 9 at 9 a.m. as we march through our Sunnyvale neighborhoods for this important band fundraiser. Once again, lawn concerts are available for purchase. Look for route maps online at www.RaiderPrideBand.com.
SUNNYVALE CHOIR BOOSTER CLUB
The Sunnyvale Choir Booster Club is a non-profit organization which benefits the fabulous SISD choral program. With a growing group of performers, our choir programs would benefit greatly from your volunteer efforts, financial assistance and overall support.
SUNNYVALE FFA BOOSTER CLUB
Sunnyvale FFA Booster Club is looking for volunteers and members! Watch Raider football games while doing something good for the community. Sign up to help us sell visitor side concessions. Concession proceeds benefit scholarships and other FFA activities.
Courtney Sharkey Named New Executive Director of Teaching and Learning
Courtney Sharkey, the new Executive Director of Teaching and Learning, will build on her previous experience as Director of Advanced Academics, Accountability and CTE to focus on strengthening the instructional core, the intersection of content, teacher capacity, and student engagement, to ensure success for all students.
“In many ways, I will be continuing the same work, but on a larger scale,” she said. “As Director, I consistently use data to inform decisions, partner with teachers to enhance instructional outcomes, and seek opportunities to build capacity.”
She has fostered cross-department collaboration and trust with staff and believes these will remain key in her new role.
“My approach to both leadership and education centers around the belief that all students have inherent worth and the ability to learn, and it is our privilege and obligation to support students on their journey to excellence,” Sharkey said. “The greatest impact on student learning comes from a well-aligned and effective curriculum, well-trained teachers and actively engaged students. So, our efforts will align with these key areas.”
She believes a strong teaching and learning culture is essential for student success and looks forward to helping shape Sunnyvale ISD’s future.
“As educators, our success is ultimately measured by our students’ successes,” she said. “If we see growth in academic achievement, expanded college and career readiness opportunities, and increased student engagement, that would be more than enough for me.” ✹
SUNNYVALE ELEMENTARY AND INTERMEDIATE PTA
Partner with us to support PTA sponsored field days, STEM and literacy nights, staff appreciation, daddy/daughter Dance, mother/son party, academic programs and more! Be a part of the fun and serve our amazing community. For more information, visit www.SunnyvalePTA.com or follow us on Facebook and Instagram.
SUNNYVALE MIDDLE SCHOOL AND HIGH SCHOOL PTA
Partner with us and champion needs specific to the upper SISD campuses like academic programs, senior scholarships and much more. By becoming a PTA member, you send the message that you support SMS and SHS teachers, students and administrators. Join today!
SUNNYVALE THEATRE ARTS GUILD FOR EDUCATION (STAGE)
The Sunnyvale Theatre Arts Guild for Education is a non-profit organization formed to support the Sunnyvale High School theatre program by providing financial and volunteer support for theatre activities, performances, faculty and students.
SUNNYVALE RAIDER YOUTH SPORTS ASSOCIATION - SRYSA
Sunnyvale Raiders Youth Sports Association’s fall sports season is underway!
We’d love for you to come out and support our young Raiders this season as they compete against neighboring towns in football, baseball and cheer!
SUNNYVALE EDUCATION FOUNDATION
The Sunnyvale Education Foundation (SEF) is a non-profit corporation dedicated to funding exciting new learning opportunities for Sunnyvale students and teachers. SEF’s primary fundraiser is the annual gala held each spring. Check the weekly E-News for gala announcements later this fall.
for
www.SunnyvalePTAmshs.com
www.SRYSA.org
sunnyvaleyouthsports@hotmail.com
Sara Staley Named Director of Advanced Academics, Accountability and CTE
Sara Staley is SISD’s new Director of Advanced Academics, Accountability, and CTE. In this role, she will oversee gifted and talented programs, career and technical education pathways and district accountability. Staley, a 27-year education veteran who has served SISD for a decade, brings extensive classroom and administrative experience to her new position.
"I am especially passionate about growing our STEM programs and enriching our gifted and talented education in the lower grades," Staley said.
During her tenure as intermediate principal, Staley established a campus-wide STEM culture, partnered with the National Inventors Hall of Fame, and created an annual STEM Career Day involving local businesses, strengthening real-world connections
for students. She aims to continue this community outreach and career pathway development districtwide.
"This new role will allow me to combine my passion for student growth, innovation in education, and community collaboration," she said.
Looking ahead, Staley plans to prioritize relationship-building across the district's four campuses while developing long-term objectives for student success.
"My long-term goal is to create meaningful opportunities in grades K–7 that allow students to explore various fields of interest, helping to shape their future CTE pathway before entering eighth grade," Staley said. "I also aim to support continuous improvement in student outcomes, measured by increased industry certifications, college credit attainment, and career placement rates." ✹
SHOWCASE YOUR BUSINESS WHILE SUPPORTING SISD
Sunnyvale ISD’s Community Partnership Program provides opportunities for local businesses and community members to advertise and market their brands in a hyper-local way. For more information, contact Emily Henvey at emily.henvey@sunnyvaleisd.com
Choice of Advertising Package totaling the sponsorship level amount: digital, print, or signage
Raiders Rise Club Yard Sign
Raiders Rise Vehicle Decal
Raiders Rise Corporate Sign
15-second video ad spot on scoreboard during home football games
Event night sponsor at one home football game (sponsor may distribute promotional materials)
Website ad on front page of www.sunnyvaleisd.com for one year
SPECIAL EVENT SPONSORSHIP OPPORTUNITIES
Supporting special events is another way businesses and individuals can contribute to the Sunnyvale ISD community. Event sponsorships cover incidentals related to the event, from student and teacher needs, food, event promotion, event materials and other needs as designated by the campus principal.
School Board Appreciation Month Sponsor: $500
Provide dinner and tokens of appreciation for our hard-working SISD Board of Trustees.
Special Olympics Sponsor: $1,000
Sponsorship covers costs associated with multi-school event hosted by SISD. Recognition includes signage, social media, E-News, website ad and video on website and E-News.
Teacher Appreciation Week Sponsor: $500 Per Campus
Support Principals as they recognize teachers for their hard work throughout the school year. Teacher Appreciation Week is in May.
Special Event Sponsor: $500 Per Event
Sponsors will be showcased in event signage, social media, E-News, website and any event announcements. Our events include:
• SIS Stem Night
• SES Literacy Night
• Bonfire to Kick-Off Winter Sports and/or Football Playoffs
• Middle School Svent (example: SMS dance)
• Senior Event (example: Senior Sunset)
• Community Partner Recognition Luncheon in April
• Legacy Club Luncheon (twice annually)
ADVERTISING WITH SISD
Looking for ways to extend your brand to your local audience? SISD has great opportunities to advertise your business to our district audience including:
• Digital advertising - SISD E-News, website, campus TVs
• District Signage - scoreboard and stadium signage, campus marquees, sports complex signage
• District Event Sponsorships
Show your Raider Pride with a RAIDERS
RISE yard sign! Only $25 and includes a vehicle decal.
Emily Ferris, SIS Assistant Principal
Emily Ferris has been named assistant principal of Sunnyvale Intermediate School for the 2025-2026 school year. She formerly served SISD as an SHS assistant principal. Her dedication, passion, and commitment to our students and staff make her the perfect fit for this role. Congratulations on your new role in SISD!
Ragan Osteen, ELAR Instructional Coordinator
Ragan Osteen is taking on a new challenge as the district’s new English Language Arts and Reading (ELAR) Instructional Coordinator. With 12 years experience teaching ELAR at various grade levels, five of those years with SISD, Osteen brings a wealth of classroom experience to her new leadership role.
Osteen said her primary focus is building strong relationships with teachers to foster collaboration and student growth. “I’ve always believed that student success starts with strong, supported educators,” she said. “When teachers feel confident, valued, and equipped, their impact on students grows.”
Her philosophy centers on making literacy both foundational and enjoyable. “All students deserve literacy instruction that empowers them to think critically and communicate effectively,” she said. “At the same time, I believe literacy instruction should nurture a lifelong love of reading by making learning relevant, fun, and accessible to all learners.”
RECOGNITION SPONSORSHIPS
Support SISD students and staff by sponsoring recognition awards such as the RISE Award, Raider of the Month, Community Partner of the Year, and Volunteer of the Year awards. Sponsors not only contribute to celebrating excellence but also gain visibility across our district. Sponsorship covers the costs associated with each award including plaque or award, recognition support and other items associated with recognition.
• RISE Award: Quarterly award recognizing an employee on each campus who is: Relational, Innovative, Servant-Hearted, and Enthusiastic
• Paraprofessional of the Year: one per campus
• Operations Staff Member of the Year: one per campus
• Teachers of the Year: one per campus, stewarded by SEF
• Community Partner of the Year
• Volunteer of the Year Award
• Distinguished Alumnus of the Year
• Legacy Award: Sunnyvale Alumni Association
In her first year, Osteen aims to build trust and collaboration with teachers while strengthening communication across grade levels and campuses. “I hope to draw on my experience to support teachers in brainstorming, problem-solving, and finding practical ways to meet the diverse needs of today’s students,” she said. “I believe in working alongside teachers to support student success.”
Kelly Taylor, SHS Assistant Principal
Sunnyvale ISD is pleased to announce Kelly Taylor as the new Sunnyvale High School assistant principal. Taylor, who most recently served as assistant principal at Mesquite High School, brings 28 years of educational experience to the district. During her 28 years, Ms. Taylor has served as an assistant principal, at-risk coordinator and Spanish teacher.
“I am thrilled to become a part of this great district and for the opportunity to develop relationships with staff, students and parents,” Taylor said.
In her new role, Taylor is committed to supporting teachers and students alike. She aims to provide teachers with the resources needed for high-quality instruction while fostering collaboration and critical thinking among students. She emphasizes equipping staff and students for success both inside and outside the classroom.
“SHS’s dedication to student success aligns perfectly with why I became an educator,” she said. “I am excited to collaborate with this team to ensure that students are challenged and reach their goals.”
Introducing Carlos Soliz, Sunnyvale High School Principal
Building a positive campus culture begins with including everyone. It is essential to foster connections and a sense of belonging to establish a strong foundation.
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Carlos Soliz, SHS Principal
Carlos Soliz, Sunnyvale High School’s new principal, has called Sunnyvale home since 2020 and brings a wealth of experience and energy to the position. His daughter graduated from Sunnyvale High School. As a parent of a Sunnyvale graduate, he is eager to serve the district his family has loved.
“I am excited about the opportunity to join Sunnyvale ISD and give back to the community that we cherish,” Soliz said. “My aim is to positively influence the lives of the students at Sunnyvale High School by providing them with a high-quality education and an outstanding high school experience.”
Soliz previously served as associate principal of operations at Royse City High School and assistant principal at West Mesquite High School. With experience in teaching social studies and math, he is
Introducing Esther Castro, Sunnyvale Intermediate Principal
Esther Castro has been named the new Sunnyvale Intermediate School principal. Castro brings 21 years of education experience, including roles as teacher, instructional coach, and most recently, assistant principal in Rockwall ISD. Her background spans bilingual education, testing coordination, safety, and Professional Learning Community (PLC) leadership.
Castro said she was drawn to Sunnyvale ISD because of its academic reputation and its tight-knit and supportive community.
“I was particularly inspired by the district’s focus on developing the whole child, empowering educators, and fostering leadership at all levels,” Castro said. “I’m excited to join a district that aligns with my core values—collaboration, excellence, and putting students first.”
“I want families to feel like true partners in their child’s education; communication should be two way and responsive,”
- Esther Castro, SIS Principal
In her new role, Castro will focus on building relationships and fostering a positive, inclusive campus culture. “I want families to feel like true partners in their child’s education; communication should be two way and responsive,” Castro said.
Castro plans to support teachers by listening to feedback, protecting instructional time, offering relevant professional development, collaborating in PLCs, and celebrating successes.
“Ultimately, my goal is to support the Sunnyvale Intermediate culture where teachers can focus on what they do best - teaching and inspiring students,” Castro said.
She expressed gratitude for the opportunity and is committed to honoring the systems and relationships behind Sunnyvale Intermediate’s success.
“I look forward to listening, learning, and building upon the strong foundation already in place, always keeping students at the center of every decision,” Castro said. “Together, we can continue to move Sunnyvale Intermediate forward with both excellence and care.” ✹
well-prepared to lead Sunnyvale High School, focusing on student achievement and campus culture.
In his first year at SHS, Soliz aims to build strong connections within the school community and empower staff and students to take on leadership roles. He values effective communication, visibility, and approachability, and is committed to listening to teachers, providing support, and fostering a culture of excellence.
“Building a positive campus culture begins with including everyone,” Soliz said. “It is essential to foster connections and a sense of belonging to establish a strong foundation. When stakeholders feel valued and heard, it contributes to a more positive campus culture.”
Soliz shared that teachers and parents can best support him by “engaging in transparent, honest conversations” to collaboratively address concerns and build on SHS’s successes.
“My family and I are excited to have the opportunity to serve our community in Sunnyvale,” Soliz said. “It is a truly special place, and we consider it a great honor and privilege to support the students, staff, parents and our neighbors. I hope to foster a strong sense of community and pride in being a Sunnyvale Raider.” ✹
Sunnyvale Independent School District
417 East Tripp Road Sunnyvale, TX 75182
SUNNYVALE
Mr. Matt Kimball Superintendent matt.kimball@sunnyvaleisd.com
Mrs. Brenda McFalls Chief Financial Officer brenda.mcfalls@sunnyvaleisd.com
Mrs. Courtney Sharkey
Executive Director, Teacher and Learning courtney.sharkey@sunnyvaleisd.com
Mrs. Amy Tutle
Executive Director, Student and Staff Services amy.tutle@sunnyvaleisd.com
Mr. Keith Adams Director of Operations keith.adams@sunnyvaleisd.com
Mrs. Aimee Bartis District Librarian aimee.bartis@sunnyvaleisd.com
Mr. Buck Baskin Director of Technology buck.baskin@sunnyvaleisd.com
Mrs. Stacy Bellows Director of Human Resources stacy.bellows@sunnyvaleisd.com
Mrs. Brittany Dlabaj Director of Special Programs brittany.dlabaj@sunnyvaleisd.com
Mrs. Emily Henvey Director of Communications and Marketing emily.henvey@sunnyvaleisd.com
Mrs. Melissa James District Crisis Counselor melissa.james@sunnyvaleisd.com
Mr. Jacob Pipak Fine Arts Coordinator jacob.pipak@sunnyvaleisd.com
Mrs. Robin Plett Director of Child Nutrition robin.plett@sunnyvaleisd.com
Mrs. Sara Staley Director of Advanced Academics, Accountability and CTE sara.staley@sunnyvaleisd.com
Mr. Todd Staley Director of Transportation todd.staley@sunnyvaleisd.com
Mr. Cody Stutts Athletic Director cody.stutts@sunnyvaleisd.com
