Volume I, Issue 8 (September 2016)

“An investment in knowledge always pays the best interest.” — Benjamin Franklin

THE

Longview Voice Sharing the good news about LISD!

Vol. 1 No. 8 August / September 2016

A publication of Longview Independent School District

Complimentary Copy

WELCOME BACK!

By Joycelyne Fadojutimi

L

ongview ISD held its convocation for the upcoming 2016-17 school year at the Lobo Coliseum. There was excitement, prodigious valor and optimism with a pep rally type atmosphere as LISD kicked the new school year into gear. The famed Green Marching Machine with 66 consecutive UIL first place wins made the convocation memorable with their music. The honor guards presented the flags as the Big Green Marching Machine played the national anthem. Wilcox praised administrators, teachers and staff for their diligence and devotion to excellence which translates into student learning.

“You are the best school district in interstate 45,” he said.

“You are doing great things for students. Because of what you are doing, our students are going to Duke, Berkeley and other notable universities, and colleges.” But Wilcox did not stop there. He asked teachers and staff to give themselves a round of applause. He did not mince words when he praised the Lobo band. “When you talk about the best, the band is a typical example with 66 consecutive wins. This is an amazing band.”

Assistant Superintendent for Campus Accountability Horace Williams thanked and encouraged the principals, teachers and staff to continue on the path of excellence they have chosen.

According to Williams, the Lobo nation has a prevailing attitude of educating all students.

Others who took to the podium include Bryan Warren 2015-16 Elementary Teacher of the Year from JL Everhart and Sylverlene Williams, 2015-16 Secondary Teacher of the Year from Forest Park Middle School.

According to Wilcox, LISD has reached many milestones. Due to increased training for the District’s leadership team, the bar has been raised once more. Consequently, there is student success in virtually in all areas: Hudson Pep and Ned E. Williams ES are two of the highest performing schools in Texas in their TEA groups.

Foster is one of the highest rated schools in the state in its demographics comparison group Dramatic improvements in Judson and Forest Park Middle Schools Longview High School graduation rate is up 97% but Wilcox wants a 100% Participation in the international Baccalaureate program from elementary to high school is increasing considering the demographics of LISD student population Increase in students taking dual credit hours Career Technical Education [CTE] for non-college bound students is dramatically up when compared to previous years District daycare is ranked as a 4 Star facility which is the highest ranking in the State. As a matter of fact, the upcoming LISD Montessori School will house 1,400 students making it the largest Texas public Montessori school.

TSA students reflect on achievement Longview High School technology and engineering students finished at or near the top last month during the Technology Student Association’s national competition, continuing a tradition of excellent while also setting the stage for future achievement.

The Technology Student Association is a national nonprofit organization of middle and high school students who engage and compete in science, technology, engineering and mathematics. About 32,000 students in Texas take part in TSA. More than 50 LISD students traveled to Nashville for nationals after finishing among the best at state meets last month. Longview High School sent 25 students to the national competition, while Foster sent 33.

LHS, TSTC grad eager to begin career Trayci Fields’ life changed at 18 when she gave birth to a son.

But, she persevered and can now call herself a college graduate.

A graduate of Longview High, now 25, graduated in August with an Associate of Applied Science degree in Professional Office Technology and a Microsoft Office Specialist certification at Texas State Technical College in Marshall.

“We’ve been with Trayci through the tears and the smiles,” said Robert Brown, director of Information Technology Studies at TSTC. “She’s worked hard to earn her way and we’re very proud of her.”

See Welcome Back on Page 5 inside the

THE

Longview Voice

See TSA on Page 3

Opinion Coming Events

See LHS on Page 2 3 4

Main Story Tutoring Tuesdays

5 6

Senior on Board Next Level

7 8

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THE LONGVIEW VOICE —

August / September 2016

OPINION

What kind of community are you creating?

By Mayor Andy Mack

Dear Lobos,

I know sometimes it is hard to think of the future and what your life will look like in 20, 30, 40 years, but if you could project your future – what would it look like? What would you like to be known for? What legacy would you like to leave behind long after you are gone?

When I was your age, I can’t remember ever thinking about such things. But the older I get, the more I find myself contemplating this very thing. Of course, there are things I want my children to remember about me and ways in which I hope I have impacted them positively. But something else that is important to me is making sure I leave the world in a better place than how I found it. I’m not talking about world peace or finding the cure for cancer, just making sure I do my part to be positive as often as possible. And now, in my position as Mayor of Longview, I am thinking of the legacy I want Our City to leave as well.

You may be thinking “What difference does it make what the image of our city is?” Please allow me to explain. Everything we do to try to build up our city, improve our economy, create more jobs, diversify – all boils down to what others think of us. For instance, trying to recruit an industry or manufacturer to come to our community forces us to compete with

other communities who are trying to do the same exact thing. The CEO’s, owners, decision makers, etc. will research our community with a fine tooth comb. This is how they will decide where they will locate or relocate. When our image is that of negativity, it will only turn people away. I wonder how many companies have considered Longview as a home for their business and turned away because of the negativity they have read online. How many jobs have we lost? How many opportunities have gone someplace else?

The more positive we are in our community or the more we promote our community, obviously the better chance we have of bringing others here. Let’s get down to an even smaller level, but equally as important. When you begin considering what you will do upon graduating, you will research in much the same way. You will “Google” the cities in which you are considering. You will look at newspaper articles, advertisements, statistics, and economic indicators and if you are like my wife, even the colors of the school in which you are considering will come into the equation! Every little thing matters. Even things that you may deem insignificant, could be the deciding factor to your ultimate decision.

So, back to my point – image is everything. So, Longview, what do you want your image to be? Do you want it to be divisive? Do you want to see color? Do you want to see socioeconomic classes?

Even sharing things on social media that are negative, propagate negativity. So, why do these things?

Why not share positive things, so that positivity is propagated instead? Or do you want to be a community noted for caring, generous acts; loving each other; always lending a helping hand; or doing as I was always taught – treating others as you would want to be treated yourself?

So, what do I want Longview to be known for? Here are a few things:

• We are people who are there for each other.

• We listen to each other.

• We put money in the boot when the firemen are collecting for MDA. • We donate money to help buy swings for kids in wheelchairs.

• We take meals to folks who need meals.

• We provide for the homeless.

• We comfort each other in times of grief.

• We lift each other up in hard, economic times.

• We cheer on football teams together.

• We celebrate our Veterans.

• We collect school supplies for kids who otherwise wouldn’t have them.

• We see needs and we don’t ignore them.

• We accept differences without

creating division.

This is the Positive Longview that I live in. Each of these things we can all do – and do it without much effort at all. Even if we all just picked one or two items to focus on each day, think of how Longview would be positively impacted.

So, Longview, it’s time that we, the citizens of Longview, start promoting our community in the way we want it to be promoted. We must quit relying on other sources that are tainting our community.

It is up to us – we have nobody to blame but ourselves. I am going to take it upon myself to be as positive an image that I can be, and I hope you will join me, in Our Longview.

Study hard, have some fun and say your prayers,

Andy — Dr. Andy Mack is a 1978 graduate of Longview High School. An oral and maxillofacial surgeon for more than 25 years, he is currently owner-operator of East Texas Oral and Maxillofacial Surgery in Longview.

For the teachers who go the extra mile

By Hannah Brown If you are a student and you have been fortunate like I have, the title of this article made you think of a special teacher. If you are a hard-working teacher and opened this article, on behalf of students everywhere, I would like to say thank you.

Being a teacher is one of the most challenging jobs in existence. Teachers work long hours, receive modest pay, and deal with insubordinate students. Outside of school, teachers sacrifice their leisure time and time that could be spent with their families to plan lessons and grade assignments. On top of all that, some teachers go even farther by by sponsoring clubs, serving committees to improve their schools, spending time outside of school to help their students, and attending school events and performances put on by their students.

No, being a teacher is not an easy job.

Yes, teachers work for a salary, but they work for so much more. Teachers not only educate students on designated subjects, but also shape the lives of their students by teaching them to think critically and shaping how students see the world. Teachers help students determine their passions and they want to pursue. Teachers challenge their students to work hard to improve and earn results worthy of reward. Some teachers even serve as lifelong mentors and friends.

I can attest that I have been profoundly impacted by my teachers. All my life, my teachers were there to help me whenever I struggled, helped me find my voice in both writing and speaking, pushed me out of my comfort zone to make me stronger, led classes and clubs, and were always proud of me when I achieved. Now, in college, professors challenge me and help me grow. When I think of the people who helped me grow into the person I am today, I think of my teachers.

To students: let your teacher know that you appreciate what they do.

Write a letter, bring a gift (even an apple will work), or simply say thank you.

To teachers: Thank you for all that you do.

— Hannah Brown was the 2015 LHS valedictorian and is currently a sophomore at Brandeis University where she is majoring in Economics and International & Global Studies with an emphasis on international affairs, media, and social issues.

It’s a fund balance, not a ‘savings account’ In recent years fund balances have come under scrutiny from state lawmakers with many perceiving fund balances to be nothing more than a savings account. However, that notion couldn’t be further from the truth.

Districts tend to accumulate fund balances for at least four good reasons: • Create a financial cushion to meet unexpected expenses and emergencies.

• Cover cash flow deficits in the fall until property taxes are collected in January.

• Demonstrate financial stability to enhance district bond ratings for lower interest rates.

• Occasionally, saving for capital improvements and new construction when a bond election is not advisable or, perhaps, when passage is not possible.

While fund balances are sometimes used

as a means to make ends meet, they are not a sufficient source for doing so over multiple years. But honestly, what other options do districts have when faced with the realities of our current system? Lest we forget, our districts must also contend with the limitations on our tax rates--especially with Local Option Homestead Exemptions frozen, lack of flexibility, and overwhelming evidence that our current system ignores the needs of our children and fails to fund them adequately.

So when someone chooses to categorize fund balances as a “savings” fund, instead of what it truly is (an emergency fund), it is a disservice to our districts.

By definition a savings fund connotes funds set aside with a specific purpose and end result, while an emergency fund is something one would access when

LHS|Continued from Front Fields encountered the typical challenges that young working parents face while balancing child care, employment, studying and classes.

“I was working and had a job and that job kind of took a lot of my time and I was going for an internship as well,” she said. “It did get real hard for me when I was supposed to finish, but I prolonged it because I knew I needed to work.”

Carolyn O’Neill, lead instructor in the Professional Office Technology program at TSTC in Marshall, said she admired Fields’ tenacity.

“Of all the classes she took, she worked at the Microsoft certification the hardest,” she said. “I was very proud of her and the fact that she never quit.”

After graduation, Fields wants to pursue a bachelor’s degree and work in a healthcare setting.

“I will always have a job somewhere and anywhere there is a hospital and clinic,” she said. “In this technical program, I can work in office settings and it doesn’t have to be in the medical field.”

And, she hopes she can set a good example for her son, now 6.

“He is already noticing,” Fields said about her upcoming graduation. “I just want him to know that after high school you have to keep going while you are young and don’t stop.”

A native of Longview, Fields graduated from high school in 2009, where she played tennis and was in the Science Club.

“At age 14, 15, 16 I knew I was going to college somewhere,” she said. “I didn’t think it would be 25 minutes from where I would come from.”

She was familiar with TSTC because she once lived in Marshall and had a relative who graduated from the technical college.

“They (the faculty) actually helped me so much along the way in the program where sometimes I didn’t know if I was going to pass or not,” Fields said. “They were always encouraging.”

facing a severe financial dilemma--like budget cuts or declining property values.

As we continue our efforts to work with the Legislature to establish an equitable school finance system, our goal first and foremost is finding a solution that would treat our children and our taxpayers fairly.

We need a solution that provides an equitable and adequate level of funding that meets the needs of our children, treats our taxpayers fairly, and no longer forces our districts to have to access their fund balance to make ends meet.

— The Equity Center is a nonpartisan, nonprofit organization of over 700 school districts across the state ranging in size, demographics, and location.

Chef’s Corner Tortilla Rollups School is back and everyone’s busy. Here’s a quick and delicious twist on the boring old sandwich that’s perfect for a sack lunch or an afterschool snack: Tortilla Rollups.

Ingredients:

8 ounces, weight Cream Cheese, Softened 1 Tablespoon Chopped Green Onions Or Chives 1 Tablespoon Minced Fresh Parsley 8 whole Basil Leaves, Chopped (or Chiffonade) Salt And Pepper, to taste 1 teaspoon Fresh Lemon Juice 6 whole Taco Sized Flour Tortillas 1/2 pound Shaved Turkey 3 whole Carrots, Peeled And Julienned 1 whole Cucumber, Seeds Scraped Out And Julienned 3 leaves Green Leaf Lettuce, Spine Removed 2 whole Avocados, Sliced

Instructions:

Chardee Snoddy

Make the herbed cream cheese by combining the softened cream cheese with the chives, parsley, basil, salt and pepper, and lemon juice. Stir to combine.

Spread cream cheese in a thin layer over the tortillas. Lay ingredients down the middle of the tortilla: for the turkey rollup, use turkey, carrots, and cucumber. For a “salad” rollup, use lettuce, carrots, cucumber, and avocado. Let the veggies extend past the edges on either side.

Roll up the tortillas as tightly as they’ll go, then wrap each rollup in plastic wrap and refrigerate for one hour.

To slice, cut each rollup exactly in half, then line up the two halves and cut them in half again. Stand the end pieces up so that the veggies stick out the top.

— Chardee Snoddy, a Longview High School graduate, is the Childhood Nutrition Chef for LISD.

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THE LONGVIEW VOICE —

August / September 2016

Principal striving to improve communication

By Jay Wallis/KYTX

Judson Middle School’s new principal William Houff said one of his main goals is to improve communication with students, parents and staff.

Houff attended Marshall High School before attending East Texas Baptist University.

As the new principal, he created the first “Back to School Bash” for the middle school, wanting to establish a culture from the start of open communication.

“We want to create any and every opportunity to come to this campus and be a part of what we’re trying to create as we move towards the road of being a very, very successful campus,” Houff said.

Last month’s bash included registration and scheduling along with a free dinner as well.

Many things were going on around the school to get his staff connecting with parents and students before the school year has even begun.

Longview native Rico Johnson has a son about to enter 6th grade. As a parent, Johnson said this is the type of environment he remembers.

“Forty years ago, me and my identical twin and my older brother went here and it was great,” Johnson said. “Great people, good students, it’s a wonderful place. You couldn’t ask for a better place to go to

school. I just want him to have fun. The main thing is to learn the values of life. This is where it starts.

Sixth, seventh, eighth grade. Once he leaves here, he’ll go to another level.”

For math teacher Leah Rosson, the event was more than just a get-together; the bash allowed her better understand who she is about to teach.

“We get to meet parents and their kids in a more relaxed environment before school starts and start building those relationships with our parents and our community,” Rosson said. “We didn’t become teachers just so we could regurgitate facts and information.

We became teachers because we liked the kids and wanted to help them grow.”

“That school-parent communication is extremely important,” Houff said. “We can’t educate their children without them being involved.”

Houff said he doesn’t want any excuses for being the new kid on the block in his first school year and wants to make an impact right away.

“Tonight, I just wanted what you see,” Houff said, pointing to the hundreds of people in the cafeteria.

TSA|Continued from Front

Career Technology instructor Charles Mosley said the accomplishment confirms that the students who attend Longview ISD “are as bright, intelligent, and motivated as any students in the country.”

It was a curtain call for LHS Class of 2016 Salutatorian Trevor O’Connor, who placed with the Manufacturing Prototype team in addition to serving as national TSA Sergeant-at-Arms.

“This year I served as the 20152016 national TSA Sergeant-at-Arms at the national TSA conference ...

I spent my time working with the executive director of TSA, corporate board members, and the national officer coordinator to rehearse general sessions and create policies for TSA that would affect members during their week at the conference,” he said. “ I am so grateful to have had this opportunity and to gain such business and career experience as a high school student and to help lead an organization with almost a quarter of a million members.

As a graduating senior, I am excited to see how much the grades below me have stepped up and have continued to build the Longview TSA legacy. I believe the future of Longview TSA is strong and I am so proud to have gotten to work with my advisor, Mr. Charles Mosley, and all those who have supported my journey.”

Finishing first in the country was the LHS Chapter Team of Ejehi Ihionkhan, Levi Grant, Uwa Ihionkhan, Stephanie Guck, Brady Miller, and Krisana Yuen.

Uwa Ihionkhan said since this was her last National TSA Conference as a member, she wanted to make her time in Nashville memorable.

“I made an effort to be involved and invested in my events, while making time to network and explore the entertainment opportunities in the Opryland Gaylord. Although this task challenged me to thrive off of only a few hours of sleep, I was more than willing to push through it because sleep deprivation is just as much a part of TSA as our motto,” she said.

“Speaking of our motto, our motto was amended from ‘learning to live in a technical world’ to ‘learning to lead in a technical world’ in a riveting threehour business meeting.”

Fellow senior Krisana Yuen agreed, adding that she is just grateful for “all of the opportunities I have been given and lessons I have learned in this organization, particularly this year.”

“As a member of chapter team, one

of the most competitive events in TSA, I spent countless hours with my fellow teammates by practicing four times a week for at least two hours a day since the end of school, including one overnight practice!” she said with a laugh. “Cramming parliamentary procedure into my brain endlessly has not only given me knowledge for the future on how a proper business meeting should be run, but also showed me how to work seamlessly with a team while still having fun.”

“Every ounce of hard work that our team put into practicing was completely worth it. Earning the title of national champs was the perfect way to end my final year of tsa,” Krisana added.

Uwa said the real prize is the tremendous support the team receives from our family, friends, and district.

“My heart is full, I have memories that will last a lifetime, and the trophies are truly only another memento,” she said.

Winning silver in Children’s Stories competition was the team of Christopher Guck, Naomi D’Arbell, Rutvi Patel, Anthony Castillo, and Alexander Lammers.

Taking third place in Photographic Technology was LHS junior Daniele Farren.

Other results from the National TSA Contest in Nashville include: 6th Place, Manufacturing Prototype: Nitin Rangu, Soumya Donty, Krisana Yuen, Trevor O’Connor, Ben Taylor, Sam Pistone.

“As a senior who has attended nationals every year, the 2015-2016 national TSA conference will forever hold a special place in my heart,” said Soumya Donty. “From seeing my friends i have made over the past four years, to feeling the rush of excitement and suspense as the speaker calls our school’s name as we go on stage, this year has truly been remarkable. I am so thankful for everything that TSA has given me, and I will cherish all of these memories for the rest of my life.”

8th Place, Engineering Design: Daniel Bally, Rutvi Patel, Christopher Guck, and Neal Rangu.

9th Place, Biotechnology Design: Soumya Donty, Krisana Yuen, Kathryn Roper, Samantha Taylor, Surya Donty, and Uwa Ihionkhan.

9th Place, Prepared Presentation: Payton Schaap.

10th Place, Chapter Team (Written Test): Levi Grant, Sophomore.

While not achieving victory at Nationals, junior Aaron Brown said he was still richly rewarded for his efforts.

“My experience at TSA nationals was filled with lessons,” he said. “I focused hard on my main event with little regard for the other two members, but come time for the awards ceremony, seeing the whole of my TSA chapter celebrating their peer’s victories showed me that I had looked at TSA from the wrong angle. I need to pursue victory, but not by myself, but with my whole team.”

“I wanted to see as many community members as possible. All the parents and students. I wanted to see those smiles on their faces and let these people know that I’m here to serve their students and make this the best place possible.”

Houff said in the near future, he wants Judson Middle School to become a blue ribbon campus and eventually become the premiere middle school in the area.

In Memoriam...

Betty Sue Bird Spradlin

Service for Betty Spradlin, 79, of Kilgore were Aug. 16, at the First Presbyterian Church with Reverend Buddy Duggins and Reverend Robert Phillips officiating.

Mrs. Spradlin died Monday, August 15, 2016 in Kilgore, Texas.

Betty was born to the late Georgia and Tyler Bird of Longview on May 17, 1937. She graduated from Longview High School and was a Rangerette at Kilgore College. In 1956, she married the late Ronald E. “Sonny” Spradlin of Kilgore.

Married for 59 years, until his death, he still called her “Little Girl” and she still referred to him as “Her Hero”.

After her sons went off to College, Betty began raising Racing Quarter Horses. She was passionate about the sport. Choosing the right stud for her Mares seeking to produce runners, which she did. Willie Nelson, her first born, was named with permission from the Country Music Legend himself. However, when Betty sent in the registration to the Texas Quarter Horse Association, she was informed that the name had been used.

So Betty approached Willie Nelson again saying, I need to know you’re middle name, someone has already used “Willie Nelson”. Ever the gentleman, Willie told Betty that he didn’t give out his middle name. Eventually, Willie Hugh Nelson was registered. A mare, Willie Hugh Nelson went on to become the TQHA’s Breed Mare of The Year in 1991. Her successful offspring included Willie’s Lillie, Sis B Fast, to name a few.

She is survived by her four sons, Ronnie, Don, Jonn and Lon Spradlin. One granddaughter Erin Spradlin, a pre-med student, is a Junior attending Texas A&M University. Her faithful and loyal four legged friends Bleau, Edie and Ginger who were always by her side.

The last year of her life would not have been the same without her loyal caregivers, Julie Bingham, Carolyn Register, Stephanie Mason and Brittany.

The family has requested donations be made to “The Betty Bird Spradlin Rangerette Scholarship,” 1100 Broadway Street, Kilgore, Texas 75662.

Online condolences can be made at www.raderfuneralhome.com.

Longview, Let’s Talk!

If you’ve got questions, comments, compliments, or suggestions for Longview ISD, we want to hear them!

Click the Let’s Talk! tab at www.lisd.org to start a conversation about whatever’s on your mind.

With this innovative, online communication solution, we're always listening 24 hours a day, 7 days a week.

THE LONGVIEW VOICE —

LISD meets,

Page 4

August / September 2016

exceeds state standards

S

chool accountability ratings are out for schools in Texas, and every one of the district’s 14 campuses “Met Standard,” with Longview Early Graduation HS scoring a 62 when the state target was 35.

The Texas Education Agency rating system ranks school districts by three ratings: Met Standard, Met Alternative Standard and Improvement Required.

The system is used to measure student and educator performance levels. To meet the state’s educational standards, a district or campus must meet at least three out of four measurements: Student achievement, student progress, closing performance gaps and postsecondary readiness.

Beth Bassett, Director of Instruction at LISD, explained the district’s goals and plans for testing in response to the state’s ratings.

“We set everything that we do at 70 percent, which is not necessarily state level and this year we are setting it to 90 percent so that 90 percent of our kids on benchmark tests, all the tests that we do so that we keep that high rigor on all the work that the kiddos do so it’s not such a shock when they see the test, said Bassett. “So we don’t teach to the test, we teach the kids so they can do well on the test.”

LISD’s Curriculum Department is interested in the student achievement (Index 1.) This year, LISD scored

74, 14 points above the state target of 60. Longview Early Graduate High School also brought in impressive numbers.LEGHS is an alternative school with a different state standard set at 35. The campus scored a full 27 points above the target.

“I am extremely proud of the hard work of our students and staff as recognized by this state accountability achievement,” said Superintendent Dr. James Wilcox.

“My hat is off to our staff and our district leaders... but my hat is really off to our students who felt like they could do it, and they did it. That is a perfect example of the district’s focus on keeping the dream alive with every child in LISD and this is just part of the results coming to fruition.”

Under the state accountability rating system, districts and c a m p u s e s receive one of three ratings: Met Standard, Met Alternative Standard or Improvement Required.

To

Coming Events September 1

9 a.m. Senior Class meeting (Little Theatre) 4 p.m. Lobo JV tennis at All Saints 5 p.m. Lobo JV football hosts Marshall 5 p.m. Lobo 9th football at Marshall 5 p.m. Forest Park volleyball at Judson 5 p.m. Foster volleyball at Tyler 5 p.m. Judson volleyball at Boulter (Tyler) 6 p.m. Ware Open House

District sees

Nominations accepted for ‘Wall of Honor’

improvements

in STAAR scores Longview ISD saw gains in 10 of the 17 areas that were assessed in grades 3-8 on the STAAR test when compared to the 2015 district scores. When compared to the state results for STAAR, LISD scored above or met the state average in 6 of the 17 areas.

“We will continue to provide teachers with meaningful professional development in order to close the performance gaps of students at all campuses,” said Latitia Wilson, Director of Research, Planning, and Accountability.

Wilson said LISD has improved in some areas of STAAR test performance, but more improvement is needed.

“It goes without saying that we are not where we would like to be,” she said. “At the same time, we’re continuing to see progress in various areas. So we’re optimistic about where we can go from here.”

LISD students scored slightly higher than the state average on fourth grade writing (+2 percent), fourth grade reading (+3 percent), seventh grade reading (+1 percent), fourth grade math (+2 percent), and seventh grade math (+2 percent). Students met the state average on eighth grade reading. Sixth grade reading (-7 percent), fifth grade math (-7 percent) and science (-8 percent), and eighth grade science (-8 percent) and social studies (-6 percent) had the biggest performance gap when compared to the state average.

Although the state raised the STAAR passing standards for 2016, grade 4 reading (10 percent), grade 8 reading (11 percent), grade 4 math (12 percent), grade 7 math (11 percent), grade 8 math (12 percent), grade 8 science (11 percent), and grade 8 social studies (10 percent) saw double-digit gains when compared to the scores for LISD in 2015.

LISD met or exceeded the percentage of students scoring at the Advanced Level on 8 of the 17 areas that were assessed on the 2016 STAAR; whereas, in 2015 LISD met or exceeded 5 of the 17 areas.

Individual campus results were mixed.

Hudson PEP exceeded the state average in all areas, Johnston-McQueen exceeded the state average in grades 3 and 4 reading, grades 3 and 4 math, and grade 4 writing; Ned E. Williams exceeded in grades 3 and 4 reading, grades 3, 4, and 5 math, grade 4 writing, and grade 5 science; and South Ward met the state average in grade 4 math.

Forest Park met the state average in grade 6 math; Foster met or exceeded the state average in grades 6, 7, and 8 reading, grade 7 math, grade 7 writing, and grade 8 social studies; and Judson met or exceeded the state average in grades 7 and 8 reading, grades 7 and 8 math, and grade 7 writing.

receive a rating of met standard the district must meet the state’s index target for either student achievement or student progress and for both closing performance gaps and postsecondary readiness.

This year’s requirements increased in each student grade level and in each subject area.

It is time to submit nominations for Longview Independent School District’s “Wall of Honor.”

The “Wall of Honor” ceremony was established in 2015 to honor LISD alumni who have served in the armed forces.

The selected nominations will be honored on the wall with a photo and plaque. The honorees will also be announced Nov. 4 at the Longview/ Mesquite football game at Lobo Stadium.

For more information please contact Sarah LeBus at slebus@lisd.org or (903) 381-2236.

September 2

7:30 p.m. Lobo football at Marshall

September 5

12 p.m. Hudson PEP PTA Executive meeting 4 p.m. Lobo tennis hosts Rockwall 5 p.m. Lobo volleyball at Henderson 5 p.m. Forest Park football at Gilmer 5 p.m. Judson football hosts Lufkin

By Kim Loeffler, KLTV

Chadwick said.

“Work our way up that’s the only thing we can do. We’re having this to try to come on one accord and get on the same page and stop all of this,” Andrews added.

And they say they appreciate this opportunity to speak their minds because even though they are young, they can make a difference.

Labor Day: All LISD campuses and offices CLOSED.

September 6

Local youth speak out against violence

Youth leaders in Longview say the homicides serve as an example of the ongoing violence in their community, and stress the importance of getting young people to join in the conversation.

“This is exactly why we are here, this is exactly why we want to talk to our young people to see what can we do to eliminate some of the violence around here especially with our young people,” L araslum Williams with YU? Youth Resources said.

Williams said the meeting held in Longview last month is just one way she is trying to engage young people in Longview to try and put an end to the crime in their city.

“You know often times we set the rules for the kids but we don’t hear why this does not work, why are we having so many issues in our schools and our homes,” Williams explained.

“We tired of losing our young men and women here in Longview,” she added.

Some of the students at the meeting say they too are tired of all the violence.

“I just don’t get it. It’s not called for,” Ayrica Andrews said. “It can affect our journey and our future.”

They said that a meeting like this is the first step to stopping crime in their community.

“Start small get a group,” Victoria

4:30 p.m. Lobo volleyball hosts Central Heights

6 p.m. Foster football hosts Lufkin (at

Judson)

September 8 4 p.m. Lobo JV tennis at Kilgore 5 p.m. Judson volleyball at Foster

5 p.m. Forest Park volleyball hosts Lufkin 5 p.m. Lobo JV football hosts John Tyler 5 p.m. Lobo 9th football at John Tyler

September 9

5:30 p.m. Lady Lobo volleyball hosts Mesquite

5:30 p.m. “Bash Before The Clash”

Tailgate Party (Lobo Stadium) 7:30 p.m. Lobo football hosts South Oak

Cliff “You got to start somewhere,” Chadwick explained.

“I don’t think you have to be a certain age to change things. I sure there are kids a lot younger than us that changes things in today’s society,” Andrews added.

And with more meetings like this, the students and leaders here hope they can come together as one to start and see those changes in their community.

The meeting on July 26 was geared toward African American youth but Williams said they are planning on having another multi-cultural meeting, led by the students, to discuss issues in their community.

September 11 Patriot Day

September 12 5 p.m. Foster football at Lufkin 5 p.m. Forest Park football hosts Moore

(at Judson) 6 p.m. Judson football hosts Three Lakes

(at Judson)

Page 5

THE LONGVIEW VOICE —

August / September 2016

Welcome Back

Currently, LISD has one of the largest Pre-K and Kindergarten in the State.

Wilcox said LISD builds from early intervention because the district wants to get an early good start with their future students. It is important to note, he stressed the inexistence of overnight success in a proven academic performance. “What has happened is that, the District increased its leadership training and raised the achievement bar,” Wilcox said. “I have the confidence in what they are doing because our student performance has and will continue to increase.”

Besides student achievement, Wilcox spoke of parental participation which has been one of LISD thorn in the flesh.

LISD has a new user friendly website that allows parents and guardians to find out

September 13 Progress Reports sent home 11 a.m. Class Ring ceremony (Melton

Auditorium) 4 p.m. Lobo tennis at North Mesquite 5 p.m. Judson football at Three Lakes 5 p.m. Foster football hosts Lufkin 5 p.m. Forest Park football at Moore

5:30 p.m. Lady Lobo volleyball at Rockwall Heath

September 15 4 p.m. Lobo JV tennis hosts Texarkana

5 p.m. Foster volleyball hosts Three Lakes 5 p.m. Judson volleyball hosts Lufkin 5 p.m. Forest Park volleyball at Moore

5 p.m. Lobo JV football at Mesquite Horn

5 p.m. Lobo 9th football hosts Mesquite Horn

September 16

5:30 p.m. Lady Lobo volleyball hosts Mesquite Horn

7:30 p.m. Lobo football hosts Mesquite Horn

September 17 9 a.m. Lobo tennis hosts varsity

tournament

September 19 more information about the district and their student. But that is not all.

Wilcox said, “We want parents to come to their child’s school,” he said. “This Is the reason why we are making access less difficult and inviting parents to visit our schools.” For this reason, Ware elementary principal Sarah Sheppard, organized Homework Night. Parents who attended learned how to help their child with homework. In addition, Southward elementary school, held a Dad’s workshop. More than 100 fathers and uncles came for this all-day workshop. Wilcox stated students were very happy and proud of their parents.

It was so successful there was an encore. However, this time, it was for mothers.

Additionally, the convocation key note speaker, Mr. Jimmy Cabrera validated administration and teachers’ hard

work praising administration, teachers and staff. Cabrera reminded them that yesterday is history, everyone needs to be poised for the upcoming school year. “This is a new beginning.

A child’s learning continues outside the classroom therefore everyone is a contributor,” he said. “Influence occurs in a single moment, it may be in the classroom, in the cafeteria, on the bus, even at Walmart where a significant other meets the student.” But that is not all.

The convocation was packed with excitement and hope of reaching higher heights. For instance, Ned E. Williams elementary school has accepted the challenge to become a Blue Ribbon school scoring 90% and above. Robert Patterson with Ned E. Williams is excited about the upcoming school year. “It is going to be a great year,”

said Patterson who works with 3-5 year- old mentally challenged students.

“I am going to give them a lot of love and learning.” Dr Carl Briley, Southward elementary school principal is expecting the highest level of achievement for his campus. Moreover, Brandis Jamerson, a Judson Middle School science teacher is ecstatic about positive changes with her new principal. As for Carretta Polk a nurse at Foster middle school, she is thrilled and forward looking. “Foster is going for perfection,” she said. “We are already doing and will do more to prepare students for their futures and life journeys.

For more information, please visit Montessoricensus.org and www. easttexasreview.com to view official comparison rankings of LISD schools.

5 p.m. Foster football hosts Nacogdoches (at Judson)

5 p.m. Forest Park at Lufkin (purple squad) 6 p.m. Judson at Lufkin (gold squad)

September 20

11 a.m. Class Ring orders (Melton Auditorium) 4 p.m. Lobo tennis hosts John Tyler 5 p.m. Forest Park hosts Lufkin (gold)

5:30 p.m. Lady Lobo volleyball hosts North Mesquite

6:30 p.m. Judson football hosts Lufkin (purple) 6:30 p.m. Foster hosts Nacogdoches

September 22 4 p.m. Lobo JV tennis hosts Kilgore 5 p.m. Foster volleyball at Hubbard 5 p.m. Judson volleyball at Three Lakes 5 p.m. Forest Park volleyball hosts Hogg 5 p.m. Lobo JV football hosts Tyler Lee 5 p.m. Lobo 9th football at Tyler Lee

September 23

5:30 p.m. Lady Lobo volleyball at Tyler Lee 7:30 p.m. Lobo football at John Tyler

September 24

Photo courtesy of Sam Smead/Sam Smead Photocreative (www.SamSmead.com)

8:30 a.m. Lobo tennis at All-Saints

THE LONGVIEW VOICE —

‘Tutoring Tuesdays’ free at Library

A local organization is partnering with the Longview Public Library to help bridge the gap for area students.

Brandis Jamerson, Coordinator for Survivors Aligned in Sisterhood Support and Insight (SASSI), said “Tutoring Tuesdays” is an effort to bolster student academic performance, at no cost to their families, in the hopes helping them be successful in life.

Led by library staff and SASSI volunteers with teaching expertise, Jamerson said the program is in need of support and participation from the public.

“We are asking volunteers to consider spending an hour or two of their time, one Tuesday out of the month,” she said.

Jennifer Eldridge, Youth Services Supervisor, said the impetus for this program started a year ago, after attending the International Literacy Association conference in St. Louis.

“This conference is mainly geared towards teachers, but I was hoping to get some insight on our weekly story times,” she said. “My duty as a children’s librarian was to think like a teacher. Librarians and teachers have the same goal: literacy for all!

However, our executions can be very different.”

While sitting in on various presentations, Eldridge said she noticed that “all the teachers seemed to be saying there isn’t enough hours in the day to help all the kids that seem to be struggling.”

“This struck a chord with me because I recalled needing after school tutoring when I was in the third grade,” she said. “I was thinking back on that experience when my father would take me to this sweet lady’s house, where we sat at her long dining table and she always had a cup of juice sitting there waiting for me. This lady spent months with me helping me to grasp all the things I could not for some reason at school.

By the end of the third grade I was doing great in all my subjects!”

Eldridge said she is grateful her father was able to provide a means to get this extra help, and that it helped her realize not everyone has this opportunity in their lives.

“I asked myself what I could do to help struggling students and teachers with their time deficit, and last September we launched Tutoring Tuesdays,” she said, adding that the

‘Green Out’ shirts currently on sale

A

ll remaining 2016 Green Out t-shirts are now available at the LISD Athletic Office, all shirts are $15 each.

We are out of youth small and adult 2XL and will get no more. Adult small and adult medium are sold out, but more are set to arrive by the end of the week.

There are a few adult large and adult XL, but they too have been reordered.

Sales have been great these past three weeks.

Mark your calendars for the following events:

• Green Out Night at Chick-fil-A, Tuesday, September 6, 4:00 PM to closing. Be at the annual Lobo party!

• 2nd annual Green Out tailgate hosted by Citizens National Bank, Friday, September 9, 5:00 to 7:00 PM, in the breezeway at Longview High School. The bankers will grill hamburgers with all the trimmings and chips for $5.00. The Viewettes will sell canned drinks. Join the Lobo fun before heading to the stadium.

• Green Out Night at Lobo Stadium, Friday, September 9, 7:10 PM. Big Green Victory Line forms on the home side track as soon as Homecoming events end. Wear your 2016 Green Out t-shirt and be on the field to cheer on the Lobos as they take the field for the first home game of the season against the Oak Cliff Golden Bears.

Page 6

August / September 2016

primary need for the program is volunteers.

That’s where Brandis Jamerson, and SASSI, came in.

“We are a women’s empowerment organization that was founded in July 2014. Our platform is to encourage women of all ages to respect one another, acknowledge their personal strengths, and to thrive in their purpose to assist the community,” she said. “As an organization, we want to present exciting opportunities for the women of Longview to connect through fellowship.”

The acronym SASSI stands for Survivors Aligned in Sisterhood Support and Insight, Jamerson explained.

“As women, we have a natural instinct to survive. Throughout history, women have gone through a variety of lengths to do what was necessary to protect and provide for themselves and their families,” she said. “As a sisterhood, we are linked by a common interest of promoting growth within ourselves, our families, and our community. We show our support to one another by sharing insight in the form of testimonials, valuable resource information, and by being a positive example to those we come in contact with.

Jamerson, who also works for Longview ISD as a middle school science teacher, said the group wants to help empower women to encourage themselves and others.

“Our goal is to join together to create a ripple effect of optimism throughout the community through action,” she said.

For more information about the Tutoring Tuesdays program or SASSI Longview, please email Brandis Jamerson at sassilongview@gmail. com and call Jennifer Eldridge (903) 237-1027.

September 26

5 p.m. Foster football hosts Hubbard (at Judson) 5 p.m. Forest Park football at Dogan 5 p.m. Judson football hosts Moore

September 27

11 a.m. Graduation items ordered (Melton Auditorium) 4 p.m. Lobo tennis at Rockwall Heath 5 p.m. Judson football at Moore 5 p.m. Foster football at Hubbard 5 p.m. Forest Park football hosts Dogan

5:30 p.m. Lady Lobo volleyball hosts John Tyler

September 29 4 p.m. Lobo JV tennis at Texas High 5 p.m. Foster volleyball hosts Dogan 5 p.m. Judson volleyball hosts Moore 5 p.m. Forest Park volleyball at Boulter 5 p.m. Lobo JV football at Rockwall 5 p.m. Lobo 9th football hosts Rockwall 6 p.m. Ware 3rd Grade Parent Program

September 30 End of 1st Six Weeks

5:30 p.m. Lady Lobo volleyball hosts Rockwall 7:30 p.m. Lobo football hosts Rockwall

THE LONGVIEW VOICE —

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August / September 2016

LHS seniors selected for TB&T board Texas Bank and Trust is has announced the selection of 25 Longview High School seniors to serve on its 2016-2017 Student Board of Directors.

The TB&T Student Board is a prestigious program recognizing outstanding high school seniors in the community.

The 2016-2017 Student Board members were introduced to the TB&T bank staff Aug. 29 in an Orientation Reception in the Main Bank lobby in downtown Longview.

The LHS seniors who qualified for this year’s Student Board will join with 29 other seniors from Trinity School of Texas, Pine Tree, Spring Hill, and St. Mary’s High Schools to make up the 38th senior class to participate in the TB&T program.

The participating seniors include Monica Arreguin, Daniel Bally, Maci Benson, Naomi D’Arbell Bobadilla, Sunita Brimmer, Aaron Brown, Mary Katherine Camp, Lucy Castillo, Kate Darby, Madeline Duvall,

Keira Eynon, Daniele Farren, Michael Goolsby, Christopher Guck, Matayi Jones, Alejandro Martinez-Berrios, Taylor Medlin, Skylar Orman, Rutvi Patel, Mya Patterson, Arjun Peddireddy, Neal Rangu, Stayton Kyle Shields, Margaret “Ebee” Ward, and Archie “Gus” Williams.

As in years passed, the Student Board program will be designed to introduce students to banking and money management at a critical point in their lives, and provide them with the essential economic building blocks to earning, spending, saving, and investing money. The students will be challenged this year to test their innovation and creative skills with a program, entitled Back to Basics. The student board members will have eight months to help the bank design a digital episode of its TBT Shorts web series.

Texas Bank and Trust established the Student Board -- its first and most enduring financial literacy program -in 1978.

Students were selected based on their grade point average, extra-curricular activities, and afterschool work activities.

Students must submit an essay with their application as well as two letters of recommendation from either a faculty member or administrator to be considered for the program. Students accepted into the 2016 Student Board program were notified in late May. Since its inception, the Student Board has introduced more than 1,800 high school seniors to banking and money management.

For information on how to participate in the 2017-2018 Student Board program, students in their junior year of high school may contact C o m m u n i t y Relations Officer Tammy Gage at (903) 237-1827.

Lady Lobo Captains Team captains for the Lady Lobos varsity volleyball team are Keira Eynon, Nikki Bell, Alexandria Johnson, Victoria Pierson. Longview finished 2-0 last week in non-district action, topping both Pine Tree and Spring Hill.

Ready for Friday LISD Backs the Blue!

Night Lights!

Longview High School’s Cheerleaders and Viewettes got together last month at Air-U for a Back to School Bash.

Parking Lot Paint Job

Viewettes were out painting parking spots at Longview High School earlier this month as part of their annual fundraising efforts.

F

oster Middle School Resource Officer Robert Brian talks to the crowd Aug. 21 during the community Back to School pep rally about SRO responsibilities at the local schools. He invited the students to get to know their SRO’s to help make their school year a success. The event at Broughton Park was well attended by students and parents from area schools.

THE LONGVIEW VOICE —

August / September 2016

Page 8

By Clint Buckley, ETSN.fm

F

ollowing a successful run playing down in classification, Longview will once again re-ascend to the state’s largest grouping.

The Lobos, which toiled in Class 5A in each of the last two seasons, are back in 6A for the next two years.

But the expectations haven’t changed.

“The league we’re in, 11-6A is going to be very tough,” said head coach John King. “We’re going to be one of many teams vying for those 4 playoff spots. Our kids know the expectations of Lobo. They are prideful, and I know they are going to play their best and that’s all we can ask.”

Known, for not being afraid to carry the rock, the Lobos have always taken the “if it ain’t broke, don’t fix it” approach.

“Our running game has been amazing for the longest. Especially our offensive line, so that’s where we really strong. Our running backs are really strong and we have a

whole set of them,” said Traveion Webster, Lobos senior safety.

“On offense we are known for running the football. We are known for defensive team speed, and that hasn’t changed. We are still wanting to run the football and that’s something that we are going to try and establish,” said Coach King.

While the offensive scheme may not change, the Lobos play-caller has. With Michael Ross graduated, it’s now time Gaylon Wiley to write his own chapter.

“I’m very excited about that.

Being a vocal leader out here, pushing everyone and showing I can lead the team,” said Gaylon Wiley, Lobos senior quarterback.

Longview first dropped from 5A to 4A at the beginning of the 2008 season, and spent the next two years dominating at that level by reaching the state championship game in consecutive seasons.

The Lobos rejoined Class 5A from 2010-13, but Longview was unfazed, advancing to at least the third round of the playoffs all four years.

Longview will now jump to 6A after reaching the 5A Division I state quarterfinals last season.

It remains to be seen how Longview will handle the transition this

time around.

Graduation took a toll on the Lobos, as longtime head coach John King returns just four total returning starters.

But as we’ve seen in the past, Longview has never used the word “rebuilding.”

A talented sophomore and junior class will get their time to shine under the glow of Friday night lights for the first time.

Junior receivers Jaylin Brown and Eric Timberlake are players to keep an eye on, as is sophomore running back Japhiniah Lister.

Gaylon Wiley, who served as the backup QB to Michael Ross a season ago, will get his shot under center in 2016. Meanwhile, D’Crayvan Polk returns after being in the rotation at running back in 2015.

Polk will be running behind an offensive line anchored by senior Kendall Starling, who helped pave the way for Longview’s powerful rushing attack last season.

The defense definitely has several holes to fill, but safety Traveion Webster is an instinctual defender with Division I college football in his future.

Longview opened the season Aug. 26 at Lufkin.

THE LONGVIEW VOICE —

August / September 2016

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THE LONGVIEW VOICE —

August 2016

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