INSIDE August 2013, Volume I, Issue 1
TERRELL INDEPENDENT SCHOOL DISTRICT
“Creating a culture of excellence in all things is a priority for Terrell ISD.” Dear Tiger Community, I am optimistic and excited about the upcoming school year. The District has fantastic children, a team of incredible employees and a supportive community. Upon this foundation, we will begin our journey together. During the 2013-2014 school year, TISD will introduce many new initiatives and reforms. As we move forward, it is essential that everyone understand the focus of our District, which is to increase student achievement in all areas. A culture of high expectations for all will permeate every department, every campus and every classroom. Each and every day, the District, Board of Trustees, community, students and staff must strive to improve. TISD believes in each student’s ability to achieve in academics and in extracurricular activities at high levels. We are
committed to providing a 21st community for allowing me to be Century Education for all students. part of the lives of our children. It is an honor and a privilege that I do Creating a culture of excellence not take lightly. Remember, a group in all things is a priority for TISD. of people that are collectively Therefore, students will be expected to learn, follow campus serve children will be rules, respect authority, and successful. adhere to the dress code. Employees will be expected Restore the Roar, to do the same. Micheal French I would like to personally Superintendent thank each member of the TISD
Spotlight on Education Career and Technical Education Students Win Big Terrell ISD is proud of the accomplishments of three Career and Technical Education students: Andrew Carmona, Cameron Smith, and Julia Perry. With guidance and support from Mr. George Parrish, dedicated sponsor, the Terrell ISD Skills USA Career and Technical Education students have competed and won at the national level.
Skills USA Chapter president; Terrell Fellowship of Christian Athletes president; varsity football quarterback and team captain; and an Eagle Scout. Cameron’s teachers comment on the outstanding work he does in and out of the classroom. We look forward to seeing the accomplishments and leadership that Cameron will bring to Terrell ISD his senior year.
Cameron Smith National Gold Medal Winner
During the 2011-2012 school year, senior Andrew Carmona In addition to Skills USA students, put Terrell ISD in the national Terrell High School also has an spotlight by winning a silver medal exceptional group of health science
“In addition to Skills USA students, Terrell High School also has an exceptional group of health science students in the national spotlight.” in the Job Interviewing Skills category. Andrew has continued his educational journey by attending Notre Dame University, where he currently serves as treasurer of the Texas Club and director of university affairs. He attributes his success at Notre Dame to the skills he learned competing in Skills USA. Andrew is not only involved in university life, but has also taken time to give back to his hometown. Andrew has spent many hours mentoring this year’s 2012-2013 Skills USA National Gold Medal Winner, Cameron Smith.
students in the national spotlight. Teachers Angel Turner and Heather Graham have provided outstanding guidance to this year’s Health Occupation Students of America (HOSA) organization. HOSA is
Andrew Carmona National Silver Medal Winner
School. HOSA member Julia Perry placed in the top 10 percent at the state conference in Galveston and competed at nationals in Nashville. The District is so proud of Julia for competing at such a high level. Julia is an outstanding student who provides great leadership to other HOSA members at Terrell High School. We have great expectations Cameron is an outstanding student for HOSA students in the future! whose honors include: Terrell
Julia Perry
Rethink Excellence New Academy Serves Gifted and Talented Students Terrell ISD is delighted to announce that the Gifted and Talented (GT) Program has expanded to open the Kindergarten through 6th grade GT Academy. Recognizing that gifted students possess distinct characteristics and needs, our students together for a portion of every school day with GT Academy educators who are passionate about giftedness and creativity. Our goal is to offer a unique learning environment tailored for gifted children that stimulates academic accomplishment, critical thinking and creativity, while fostering peer
interaction and personal growth. We quality, optimal educational experiences, believe that such an environment through the new is most effective when a diverse GT Academy. community studies, plays, and grows together. Our vision for the GT Academy is that it becomes the preeminent gifted program offered within our region. The GT Academy’s director is Bronwyn Vaughan and the educators include Charis Bailey, Melissa Daughtery, and Kathy Stokes. This team of four is committed to celebrating each child’s quest for knowledge, their sense of wonder, and their accomplishments. Terrell ISD is committed to providing
Back to School A Message for Terrell ISD Parents Welcome back to Terrell ISD! We look forward to partnering with you to foster educational excellence in your student and all Terrell ISD students. As a parent, you are an integral part of the development of your child or children. Terrell ISD is committed to helping each of our students reach their highest level of academic success. We have high expectations for our students, both academically and socially. Our priority is providing students with the best possible learning environment. In all of our schools, and within each and every classroom, incidents that prevent learning and teaching will be addressed. Our goal is to provide structure and discipline so all students are given the opportunity to advance academically. In order for students to succeed, students must be both mentally and physically present at school. We expect our students to come to school every day prepared to learn. As
students walk through the doors of their classroom, our teachers will be ready to begin lessons immediately. We will create an environment where all teachers and students are held to the highest standard of excellence. Please make sure you and your students are aware of our student dress code requirements. The dress code promotes a positive learning of the school and community. A complete copy of the Terrell ISD dress code policy is available at each campus, in the student handbook, and on the District website. As an educational community, our mission is to provide an exceptional learning experience in a safe, nurturing environment. We will challenge students to achieve academic excellence and to be responsible, productive, and ethical members of an ever-changing society. Thank you for your continued support of our students, teachers, and schools.
Keys to a Successful School Year Children spend about 1,000 hours Academics: Attitude: per year in school. So, helping Come to school every day Don’t let unfocused students children enjoy learning and being prepared and on time. successful is important for our school Read at least 20 minutes each you know is not right. community. Our goal is excellence evening. This will make you a Do not participate in or instigate in all that we do: A+ academics, better reader. bullying. A+ appearance, A+ attitude, and Actively listen. Move closer to Be persons of character: trustworthy, A+ action. Students and parents can the front of the classroom; focus respectful, caring, fair, and offer their support and participation your attention; and take good responsible. by following these tips: notes. Have respect for authority. Participate in class discussions. If you do not understand, ask Action: questions. Get into a routine. Have Do your homework. Establish a predictable bed times, meal routine and stick with it. Parents, times, and wake-up times. monitor your child’s homework Develop a study plan and stick and ask your child to share what to it. they learned at school each day. Get involved in extracurricular Stay informed using the TISD activities. Parent Portal online tool. Make friends. Get in the habit of being friendly and polite. Appearance: Prepare for the day ahead and Keep in dress code. gather everything you’ll need Tend to personal grooming the night before so you don’t before school. forget anything. Wear RED on spirit days. Get enough sleep. NEVER give up.
Meet the Teacher Night W. H. Burnett Elementary
Tuesday, August 20
5:00 p.m. - 7:00 p.m.
J. F. Kennedy Elementary
Tuesday, August 20
5:00 p.m. - 7:00 p.m.
Bruce Wood Elementary
Thursday, August 22
6:00 p.m. - 8:00 p.m.
J. W. Long Elementary
Thursday, August 22
6:00 p.m. - 8:00 p.m.
Terrell High School
Thursday, August 29
6:00 p.m. - 8:00 p.m.
Furlough Middle School
Thursday, September 5
6:00 p.m. - 8:00 p.m.
In the Know Access Your Student’s Information Using Campus Parent Portal Campus Parent Portal gives parents and guardians the opportunity to school attendance, grades, class assignments and more. To set up a Parent Portal account, email your name, student name(s) and home address to parent.portal@terrellisd.org. Once submitted, you will receive an email response containing your Username, Password and login instructions. Parents and guardians can access their account by visiting:
Mark Your Calendar! First Day of School Monday, August 26
Campus Parent Portal is now available on your mobile device. Step 1 of the following stores:
First Home Football Game Friday, August 30
Labor Day Holiday Monday, September 2 Step 2: Launch the Campus App and enter the TISD District ID: QRGBHC Step 3: Enter your Campus Portal Username and Password and select Log In / Sign In.
Homecoming Friday, October 18
August 2013 To encourage excellence in education by promoting and funding effective programs and ideas in the Terrell Independent School District.
2013 Grant Awards—$75,358 Angela Barton received a $7,000 grant to establish an English-Spanish guided reading library at Burnett Elementary School.
Angela Sample received a grant for $3,300 for ten half-day Summer School sessions for elementary “Students with Late Birthdays”.
Pam Chamberlain received a $5,570 grant for an iPad reading initiative to improve comprehension and fluency in 2nd grade. Sandra Emerson received $8,985 for a mobile learning computer center for Alternative Education Center students to research careers. M a x i n e V a n Zandt-Murphy received $9,254 for iPads to improve reading scores and assist with STEM projects for elementary school students. Taylor Millson (Terrell High School) received $1,000 to attend the National Youth Leadership Forum on Nation Security in Washington, DC.
William Wallace received $20,400 for teachWELD Virtual welding Stations for Terrell High School Career and Technical Education students.
T am a r a Burgess received $3,200 for fees and travel expenses for two Wood Elementary School teachers to attend the Ron Clarke National Education Conference in Atlanta, GA.
Proto Castro (Wood Elementary School) received $929 to attend NASA Space Camp in Houston, Texas. George Parish received $10,720 for computers, monitors, and Dual Graphics to facilitate Chief Architect and OSHA Safety Training programs at Terrell High School.
Peggy Bridges received $5,000 for fees and travel expenses for five Career and Technical Education teachers to attend the National Career Tech Education Convention in Las Vegas, NV.
Programs Career and Technical Initiatives
will enhance
programs that provide real-world work experiences. Advanced Learning Initiatives will provide funds for programs that inspire students to reach beyond the classroom and engage in rigorous academic pursuits. Professional Development Initiatives will provide opportunities for staff to participate in staff development activities . District Initiatives will provide funds for district-wide projects that address specific priorities aligning with the District's Strategic Plan.
Our Goals To build a perpetual source of funds for excellence in education. To promote and publicize the strengths of Terrell ISD. To encourage creativity among staff by supporting growth opportunities, providing resources for creative strategies, and recognizing and rewarding staff accomplishments. To encourage academic excellence by providing funding unavailable through local, state or federal resources
Foundation Board Robert Hulsey President Bonnie McGinty Vice President of Administration Dr. Bruce Wood Vice President of Programs Mike Cronin Vice President of Development Sarah Kegerreis Vice President of Community Relations John Davidson Secretary/Treasurer Dr. Kathryn McClellan Director Tori Lucas Director Danny Booth Director
Ex Officio Members: Michael French Superintendent of Schools Dena Risinger President Terrell ISD Board of Trustees Dana Skelton TISD Liaison
About Our Foundation The Terrell ISD Excellence Foundation is a 501(c)(3) non-profit organization governed by a Board of Directors representing a cross-section of citizens who are dedicated to education and share a vision for excellence in our schools. The Foundation was created to support and enhance the education of all students in the Terrell ISD .
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Letter from the President 2012-2013 marks the fifth year of the Terrell ISD Excellence Foundation and what a great year it was. A total of nine grants were awarded totaling $75,358. Five Advanced Learning Initiative grants were given out including one for an English-Spanish Guided Reading Library. Professional Development grants were disbursed to help staff improve student engagement in academics. Career & Technical Initiative grants included virtual welding stations which were highlighted when local industries toured the new Career and Technical Education Center and th witnessed the hands-on experience our students are gaining from such grants. Last year, our 9 grade was designated as a Science, Technology, Engineering and Math (STEM) campus for enhanced learning opportunities. th STEM will be expanding to include the 10 grade in 2013-14. In order to continue enhancing the future for Terrell ISD students, the Foundation began the Partners in Excellence program. Partners in Excellence supporters will be recognized for their commitment to support the Foundation on an ongoing basis via a sustaining membership. The Foundation has accomplished many goals in the past five years, but there are more success stories ahead. We appreciate any new and continuing support to provide funding for exceptional education. Sincerely,
Robert A. Hulsey Chairman
IN HONOR OF
GIVEN BY
Chris Bailey
Carlton and Shawn Tidwell
Amy Beam
Carlton and Shawn Tidwell
Toby Drake
Carlton and Shawn Tidwell
Judy Harrell
Carlton and Shawn Tidwell
Tamara Lovern
Carlton and Shawn Tidwell
Monty “Doc” Montgomery
Carlton and ShawnTidwell
JaMichael Palmer
Carlton and Shawn Tidwell
Debi Rogers
Carlton and Shawn Tidwell
Sandi Sanders
Brandi Howie
Michael Setser
Carlton and Shawn Tidwell
Maintenance, Custodians & Cafeteria Workers In Terrell ISD
Dana and Sherry Skelton
Truman and Carol Welch
Dana and Sherry Skelton
IN MEMORY OF
GIVEN BY
Shelia Gilbert Blanton
Carlton and Shawn Tidwell
Sarah Bond
Terrell Chamber of Commerce
Bob Clayton
Terrell Chamber of Commerce
Tricia Cronin
Mike Cronin
Herman Furlough, Jr.
Dana and Sherry Skelton
Chuck Vaughan
Diana Dophied
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Spotlight on TISD Excellence Foundation Board Member Bonnie McGinty, a busy community volunteer and recipient of the 2013 Rotary Community Service Award, serves the Excellence Foundation as Vice President of Administration. McGinty was serving on the Terrell ISD Board in 2002 when she heard a presentation on the results of 20 “mini grants” given to teachers to encourage creative ideas and grant writing. She was so impressed that the teachers were able to take a small amount of money and turn it into a wonderful idea to enhance teaching in their classroom. From that presentation, a seed was planted that has grown into the Excellence Foundation. No longer on the school board, McGinty now serves the community and its students through the Excellence Foundation. She, as well as approximately 30 community volunteers, spent many hours learning what an Educational Foundation is and how to implement one in Terrell, Texas. The creation for the Foundation began in 2005, fundraising began in 2009, and the first grants to teachers and students were awarded in August 2009. McGinty states, “ I want our district to be the type of district that teachers want to be a part of. I want them to feel they have the opportunity to envision new ways of teaching and have the resources to make that vision a reality. I want parents to feel as though our district is the best place for their children to be educated. I want our community to feel great pride in what our district is able to accomplish. An educational foundation can make all of these things possible.” Additionally she says, “I want teachers in our district to be encouraged to use innovative ideas to help students learn more and with greater enthusiasm. State and federal funds cannot provide funds for classroom extras. These items must be provided through funding from non-traditional sources. Businesses, industries, and individuals have responded in an incredibly generous manner and the work of the Excellence Foundation has begun.”
Spotlight on Student Grant Recipients Omayra Mata, Terrell High School class of 2013, received TISD Excellence Foundation grants in 2010 and 2011. A teacher nominated her to attended the National Youth Leadership Forum on Law CSI (Crime Scene Investigation). She turned to the Terrell Excellence Foundation for funding. At this week-long program Omayra stated, “I learned how an attorney works a crime case. This experience heightened my desire to become an attorney. Because of this experience, I applied and was accepted at Texas Tech on a pre-law track and plan to attended law school.” Another National Youth Leadership Forum invited Omayra to attend the Collegiate Success Camp at Duke University where she was able to learn how to prepare for college and a profession. Again, Omayra received an Excellence Foundation Grant in order to attend the forum. From these two opportunities Oamyra has confirmed her educational path and gained confidence, self esteem, and the ability to speak in public. This resulted in a 2nd place award for the Terrell Rotary Club 4-Way Test Speech contest. Blake Bolluyt, 2013 Terrell High School Senior, received a TISD Excellence Foundation grant in 2012 to attend the National Youth Leadership Forum on National Security held in Washington D.C. With the grant he was able to receive matching funds from two other enterprises that fully funded the trip. Blake states, “I learned about government, and it helped me define my intentions to join the U.S. Air Force. This opportunity broadened my perspective. Because of this, I am now committed to joining the U. S Air Force and expect to receive my enlistment papers any day.” Blake also shared his experiences with other Terrell High School students and encouraged them to apply for this type of grant.
Terrell ISD
700 N. Catherine Street Terrell, TX 75160 Micheal French, Superintendent TISD Board of Trustees Dena Risinger, President Lisa Asher, Vice President Ann Kines McDonald Anita Mann Thomas Mosley Channy Ory Reginald D. Williams
Carrier Route Presort Local Postal Patron Terrell, Texas 75160
Avenues To Contribute Terrell ISD Excellence Foundation accepts donations from individuals, corporations, and other foundations to fund its programs and activities. Donations may be given in honor or memory of someone. General Gifts. Unrestricted donations will be placed in the General Fund. Restricted Gifts. Donations may be restricted for one of the Foundation
programs.
Matched Giving. Donors can often double or triple a contribution with an
employer-matching gift. Donors should check with their employer and ask for the company’s matched gift form and send the completed form with the contribution to the Terrell ISD Excellence Foundation.
In-kind Gifts. Donations of in-kind services or gifts may also be given to the Foundation. Donors may check with
the Foundation regarding acceptance of services or gifts.
Need a gift for your student’s teacher? Are you puzzled about a gift for a friend, relative or co-worker? What better way to remember that special person than with a gift to the Excellence Foundation in their honor. The Foundation will send a certificate to school staff and a letter to others to let them know that you have made a gift in their name. Funds given to the Foundation ultimately provide grants to teachers and students for projects and activities that are unavailable through local, state or other funding sources. Forms for donations are on the Foundation’s website: www.terrellexcellencefoundation.org or contact Tori Lucas at torilucas@anbtx.com or 214.863.6068 or Dana Skelton at dana.skelton@terrellisd.org or 972.563.4731.
Please list name as you would like it to appear for public recognition
Individual
Business
Name____________________________________________________________________ Address__________________________________________________________________ City______________________________________________________________________ State________________________________________________________Zip__________ Telephone_________________________________________________________________ E-Mail____________________________________________________________________
I wish my gift to be made in honor or in memory of: Name ______________________________________________________________________ Address_____________________________________________________________________ City____________________________________ State______________ Zip________________
Enclosed is my check for $_________ made payable to: Terrell ISD Excellence Foundation.
To donate or for additional information, contact Tori Lucas at 214-863-6068 or torilucas@anbtx.com.