“Education is the passport to the future. Tomorrow belongs to those who prepare for it today.” — Malcolm X
THE
ongview Voice
Sharing the good news about LISD!
Vol. 2 No. 2 February/March 2017
A publication of Longview Independent School District
Thank you Dr. Briley!
Complimentary Copy
District bids fond farewell to Dr. Carl Briley
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eb. 17 was proclaimed “Dr. Carl Briley Day” last month at South Ward Elementary. The South Ward Select Choir gave a moving a performance of “I Believe I Can Fly,” and other musical numbers before being honored with a proclamation from the CIty of Longview by longtime LISD board member John Preston. Dr. Briley is retiring after a 42-year career in education, nearly two decades of it spent at Longview ISD as a counselor, administrator, and consultant... as well as a mentor, advocate, and friend. We will miss his warmth and guidance, as well as his kind and uplifting demeanor. Thank you, Dr. Briley, for making Longview ISD a better place!
Students bring food from farm to table
Johnston-McQueen Elementary 3rd Grade students and staff have been spending the past month creating an oasis of gardening that has been admired by all. Spearheaded by JMQ 3rd Grade teacher Gail Stephens and constructed by LISD maintenance team member s Kev in Payne and Mike Gipson, the garden has became the talk of proud students, parents, and the local community. A f t e r constructing the beds, Gipson and Pay ne ins t a lled an underground watering system of pipes, filled the newly constructed beds with gravel and soil, making the raised beds ready for planting. The garden is organic and chicken manure is the fertilizer of choice. Projec t coordinator Stephens, accompanied by Cafeteria Manager Angie Vanzandt and staffer Patty Williams, harvested the first crop of lettuce leaves. The farm-to -t able operation, initiated this fall as a 3rd-grade project, will ultimately bring fresh organic produce to our cafeteria menu. “Our first harvest from the garden was cabbage and 3rd grade students of strawberries,” Stephens said. Johnston-McQueen learn “Students pick weeds as one the benefits of gardening. of the many responsibilities in maintaining the garden.
Photos by Keisha Roland/East Texas Review
Isrrael Vazquez named Rotary ‘Teacher of the Month’ T he L ong v iew Rotary Club honored South Ward Elementary teacher Isrrael Va z q u e z during their regular meeting Jan. 24 at First Baptist Church. Va z q u e z was recognized as the January 2017 Teacher of the Month by club members for his professionalism, l e a d e r s h i p, and teaching excellence. “Mr. Vazquez is a vital part of our educational team,” said South Ward Principal Dr. Rebecca Cooper. “We appreciate the Longview Rotary Club for selecting a member of our faculty for this honor, and their support
inside the
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Longview Voice
of education in our community.” Vazquez has worked for Longview ISD since 2004, starting as a 3rd Grade teacher at the former Jodie McClure Elementary. He has been at South Ward since 2008. In thirteen years as a bilingual teacher, the passing rate for Vazquez’s students is above 80 percent. “I believe that every student can learn,” he said. “I spend most of the time encouraging them to getting good self-esteem through providing a different kind of instruction that allows them to learn, and with that stop the circle of frustration at school.”
Opinion Coming Events
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T he L ong v iew Rot ar y Club recognizes a local teacher each month. The teachers are honored at regular luncheon meetings. Jon Cromer, Teacher of the Month coordinator for the Rotary Club, said it is a privilege for the organization “to honor the great teachers of Longview ISD each year.” “There are many outstanding teachers working every day to educate and improve the lives of young people in this community and Mr. Vazquez is no exception. He is an extraordinary individual with a great story of perseverance and determination throughout his own childhood, and now, with the positive impact and impression he is able to make on his students, is truly incredible,” he said. “Longview ISD and South Ward Elementary School are fortunate to have a teacher of Mr. Vazquez caliber and we are proud to honor him.”
PEP Science Night Black History Essay Contest
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Students spread hay around the raised beds to hold the soil in place and keep the work area tidy and clean.” Stephens said a number of area residents have shared their excitement about seeing the raised garden from Highway 259. ”One community member expressed joy at seeing the children working on a real-world project,” she said. “Another neighbor wrote a note to the principal to tell her that this side entrance of the school has never looked better!”
14 Early graduates receive diplomas
It may not have had the usual “pomp and circumstance” of the end of year graduation ceremony, but the diplomas presented to 14 Longview Early Graduation High School students are just as special. During the Longview ISD trustees meeting Monday, Dec. 12, graduates were recognized by Principal Kristi Means. Means challenged the graduates to “keep working hard to overcome the obstacles that life puts in your way.” See page 3 for photos. FFA Honors Signing Day
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THE LONGVIEW VOICE —
February/March 2017
OPINION
How you handle life matters By Mayor Andy Mack Dear Lobos, I tend to share with you things that are resounding themes in my life at the time of my writing. Right now, one thing that continues to come back to me in different forms is “How you handle certain situations, matters, and sometimes matters even more than the decisions that you are making.” How you speak, not just what you say, is important. I’m sure many of you have experienced what I have also experienced, and that is that “tone” goes a long way. As does timing. I was reminded of this during my Sunday School lesson this week which my younger brother, Ben (whom everyone loves more than my older brother, Chris and myself) facilitated for our Bible class. He very eloquently reminded me (like a 2-by-4 between the eyes) that how you treat people and respond to certain situations will be remembered long after the situation is over. I, being a “Type A,” very organized, very regimented (OCD) person, have a vision in my mind of how everything should work. Oftentimes this vision is irrespective of how anyone else’s vision could or should work. I can recall a time when I was operating on a patient and the situation was tense to say the least. The patient was very sick and emotions were running very high. As the situation worsened, I felt like things needed to happen at a much more rapid pace than those around me were accomplishing. My tone elevated and my language deteriorated to an embarrassing level. Although at the time, I felt 100 percent justified in my actions because I was doing the things necessary to control the situation and the patient. What I failed to realize was the aftermath of what was to come. To make this semi-long story short, the patient did great and the situation resolved and we completed the procedure thanks to the help of all of those around me. But as I exited the operating suite my longtime assistant caught me outside the door in what I thought would be a celebratory speech on what a good job I did, but yet she admonished my behavior. And what she said rang true to me and it is something I will never forget. She asked me if that was the image I wanted my employees to remember me by and if that was the language that I wanted them to know me by and if the behavior I wanted to be associated with. She asked if this was how I professed my faith. “Ashamed” was the only
word that came to mind because that is how I felt at that moment. The moral to the story is: the positive outcome in the operating room was overshadowed by the negativity of my actions. And nobody will remember the great care of the patient, but they will remember how I handled myself – which was embarrassing. This brings us back to our opening sentiment, “How you handle things matters.” Each of us is accountable for the way we act, the things we say and the attitude that we put forth. You have probably reached many accomplishments in your life already and will reach many more. But what matters more than those accomplishments is how you conducted yourself in the process. Did you get there by lending a hand to help someone up or by stepping on someone and pushing them down? I’m reminded of a principle in the “Go Giver” book which more-or-less says “Put the other guy first.” In general, if you look for a way to help others succeed, you can’t go wrong. If I had considered the thoughts and feelings of my coworkers who all had the same goal in mind which was to provide excellent care to our patient, we would have still reached the same outcome and I would have been able to save myself some embarrassment along the way. And also I would not have had to walk back over the burning bridge that I had set fire to earlier in the day, when I went to apologize to each individual. There will be stress in your life. Accept that. There will be ups and downs. That’s a given. But how you choose to respond is totally up to you. You get to determine that outcome. 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.
Don’t be fooled by State wants better ‘school choice’ results for less money By Ken Zornes
Supporters of public school vouchers in Texas are really feeling their oats about now, thinking there has never been a better time to stick it to Texas taxpayers by getting a voucher bill through both chambers and signed by the governor. Now they can see the light at the end of the tunnel. Just as death and taxes are inevitable so can Texans count on any number of voucher bills every time the legislature convenes. The National School Choice Week recently concluded with more than 20 thousand rallies across the country. What a misnomer; it should have been labeled “How to Get Taxpayers to Pay for Private Schools Week.” Gov. Greg Abbott, Lt. Gov. Dan Patrick and Senate Education Chair Larry Taylor have made it a priority to get a voucher bill passed this session and they are surely feeling emboldened by our new president and his nominee for secretary of education (both clueless about public education) staunchly supporting vouchers. This go-round they’re being called education savings accounts. In past attempts they’ve been referred to as freedom scholarships, tax credits, and taxpayer savings accounts. Just as a rose by any other name is still a rose, regardless of what they’re called, they are still vouchers that could result in millions of taxpayer dollars being rerouted from public to private schools. Those include religious schools of any and all faiths. According to the Private School Review there are more than 1,100 private religious schools in the state. Also, according to the Texas Private School Association, there are 800 accredited private schools in Texas serving 250,000 students. We can also expect scores of new private schools to open where students may learn that the earth is flat, climate change is a hoax (as was the moon landing) and that humans and dinosaurs at one time lived in
harmony. What about those tax paying parent s who homeschool their children? Will they be eligible to receive a voucher for their children? They’ll cer t ain l y be asking for such. According to the Texas Homeschool Coalition Association, there are more than 150,000 families homeschooling more than 350,000 Texas children. What about accountability? For years, demanding that school districts, school boards, superintendents, principals and teachers be held accountable for student achievement, based on standardized test scores, has been the driving force behind nearly every aspect of public school legislation. Taxpayers, according to our elected officials and others, have the right to know how their tax dollars are being spent. The public is responsible for our public schools. They know where their tax dollars are being spent. When they are not happy with the return on their investment, they can elect and vote out trustees and demand more from administrators and teachers. They can easily stay informed about their public schools by attending open board meetings and asking for information through the Texas Open Meetings Act. Transparency is at the core of our public schools. Under a voucher system only those parents sending their children to a private school will know where their tax dollars are going. Those who keep their children in the public schools and those without children will have no idea where their tax dollars are being used or if they are being used effectively. They won’t know what athletic teams, debate teams, choirs and other school activities their money is being used for. They won’t know what ideas are being taught
By Ross Ramsey
School property taxes are rising as local school costs increase, while the state gradually decreases its share of public education spending. At the same time, according to the outgoing chairman of the Texas House’s Public Education Committee, the Legislature is spending more using their tax dollars, ideas that could espouse racism, discrimination, sexism or xenophobia, to name a few. Using public funds to support private schools is a disaster waiting to happen. Those of you who care about public education in Texas and how your tax dollars are being spent should be very alarmed and demand that any plan to direct public funds to private schools not see the light at the end of the tunnel. — Ken Zornes is executive director of the Texas Business and Education Coalition and a former Dallas Independent School District trustee.
than $2 billion a year that would have gone to public education on other programs and services in the state budget. St a t e Rep. Jimmie Don Aycock, the Killeen Republican who chairs the House Public Education committee, told a group of school officials from around the state last week that voters want school taxes to go to schools. He suggested the Legislature’s practice in recent years — gradually shifting its share of school funding to local governments that rely on rising property taxes — will eventually come home to roost, especially if those school officials tell their voters about the problem. Maybe. Had the state kept its share of school funding constant for the past 10 years, voters might not be griping about rising property taxes. The state of Texas will spend a projected $40.5 billion on public education during the current 201617 budget period, and when state officials tell you they’re spending more on education, they’re telling Continued on page 3, see Money
Chef’s Corner Directions Perfect for breakfast, lunch, or dinner (and just about any occasion) this month Chef Chardée shares her recipe for Hash Brown Casserole!
Hash Brown Casserole Ingredients Ingredients 8 cups frozen hash brown shredded potatoes 2 can cream of chicken soup 2 cups sour cream 1 cup of shredded cheese (or more if you like it cheesey ) 2 cups of chosen cooked meat (ham, bacon, chicken) salt and pepper to taste
Spray your cooking dish. Mix all ingredients together, and pack them into your cooking dish. Bake at 350 degrees for 30 minutes covered in foil. Remove the foil and bake for an additional 15 min. This dish is also really good with the addition of green onion, bell peppers, and even jalapenos if you like it spicy! — Chardée Snoddy, a Longview High School graduate, is the Childhood Nutrition Chef for LISD.Ingredients 8 cups frozen hash brown shredded potatoes 2 can cream of chicken soup 2 cups sour cream 1 cup of shredded cheese (or more if you like it cheesey ) 2 cups of chosen cooked meat (ham, bacon, chicken) salt and pepper to taste — Chardée Snoddy, a Longview High School graduate, is the Childhood Nutrition Chef for LISD.
THE LONGVIEW VOICE —
February/March 2017
Board of Trustees celebrates early grads
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Coming Events March 1 Ash Wednesday Texas Public School Week (Feb. 27 through March 3) 8 a.m. Lobos golf at Pine Tree Invitational March 2 Texas Independence Day Read Across America Day 8 a.m. Lady Lobos varsity softball at Whitehouse tourney 8 a.m. Lady Lobos JV softball at Texas Two-Step tourney (Lear Park) 8 a.m. Lobos varsity baseball at Oil Belt tourney (Kilgore) 8 a.m. Lobos JV baseball (green) at Liberty-Eylau tourney 8 a.m. Lobos JV baseball (white) at Pittsburg tourney 8 a.m. Lady Lobos powerlifting at Regional meet (Pine Tree) 8 a.m. Lobos track at Maverick Relays (Marshall)
• Julianna Alamanza plans to attend Kilgore College and major in welding. • JaMichael Bell plans to attend Kilgore College and major in industrial maintenance. • Destinee Bush plans to attend Texas A&M Commerce. She hopes to receive a Bachelor’s Degree in Nursing. • Brianna Davis is a Globe Scholar graduating on the recommended plan. She plans to attend Tyler Junior College and major in physical therapy. • Priscilla Hensley is a Globe Scholar graduating on the recommended plan. She plans become a pharmacy technician in Longview Early Graduation’s Pharmacy Technician program. • Mi’Kayla Jessie will pursue a cosmetology degree at Kilgore
College. •Cody MacDonald plans to continue working for Berry’s Fiber Optics. Claudia Mason is a member of the National Society of High School Scholars. Claudia plans to receive her basic classes at Kilgore College. Once she has finished she will attend Louisiana Tech to major in biological science. • Colton Newberg will pursue a welding degree at Kilgore College. Hanson Nichols is a Globe Scholar graduating on the recommended plan. He will enlist in the United States Army on March 14th and is scheduled to begin basic training soon after at Fort Sill, Oklahoma. • Cody Pairett plans to major in industrial maintenance at Kilgore College. • Ricky Pepper aspires to become
a welder. He will major in welding at Kilgore College. • Tanisha Turner-Fletcher is a Globe Scholar graduating on the recommended plan. She plans become a pharmacy technician in Longview Early Graduation’s Pharmacy Technician program. • Taylor Waitts hopes to become an Emergency Medical Technician. She plans to attend the University of North Texas. The Longview Early Graduation High School (formerly known as LEAD Academy) serves progressive students who wish to graduate early. Providing dual-credit courses for students seeking higher education, it also features career and technology options, online/distance learning, and ACT/SAT preparation.
Money|Continued from page 2 the truth. Not all of the truth, but some of it. Their spending increases haven’t kept up with the burgeoning number of students. In the 2017 fiscal year, the state is planning to spend $19.6 billion, according to the Legislative Budget Board, up 7.4 percent from the amount they spent 10 years earlier. The average daily attendance in 2017, one way to measure the number of students in public schools, will reach 5.04 million, an increase of 16.8 percent over the 4.3 million in Texas classrooms 10 years earlier. This isn’t a brainteaser: The population has been rising faster than state spending. Texas is spending more, but not keeping pace. Local and federal spending increases have covered the difference. Public school districts are on track to spend $26.2 billion in 2017, up 44.2 percent from 2008. Federal spending rose 22.2 percent to $5.1 billion. On a per-student basis, local spending rose $990.21 over those 10 years, state spending fell $339 and federal spending rose $45.06. The state is spending more than it was overall, but it’s spending less per pupil. Some of that is attributable to pure good fortune. The state has done well, economically speaking, and growth in property values — both from new development and rising prices — has boosted property
tax bases all over Texas. That made it relatively easy for property-tax dependent school districts and local governments to grow with the economy, and for the state government to divert money it would have spent on schools to other areas. State officials offloaded one of their biggest financial problems and one of their biggest potential political problems at the same time. Try this exercise. Don’t fool with the overall cost of public education in each of those 10 years — leave that number alone — but keep the state’s overall share of 44.9 percent in place the whole time. State government would have spent $18.6 billion more than it did on public education over the past 10 years. Local school districts paid 44.8 percent of the total in 2008 and are on track to carry 51.5 percent in 2017. Had the burdens remained constant, local school districts would have spent $11.6 billion less over that decade. For the second session in a row, state Rep. Donna Howard, D-Austin, has pre-filed a proposed constitutional amendment that would require the state to keep its share of public school spending at 50 percent or higher. Pinch yourself — that would cut $10.3 billion from what the school districts and their property taxpayers are spending in the current budget, but it would cost the state government — fueled by sales and
other taxes — the same amount. That’s back-of-the-envelope math, but you get the idea. If the state agreed, as Howard has proposed, to cover even more of the cost of public education local schools could spend less. They’d be able to lower property taxes by a sizeable, politically signif icant amount. Legislators would be on the hook for education support they have been foisting off on local school boards. It’s an accountability thing. School boards set property taxes and get the blame for it — even when those increases are forced by the Legislature’s steadily declining financial support for public education. Legislators, on the other hand, have an easy political ride: They get to stand with the voters who want lower property taxes, pretending the local officials are the ones at fault. Who’d want to give up a political deal like that one? — An award-winning journalist for more than 20 years, Ross Ramsey is executive editor and co-founder of The Texas Tribune.
Mary Hagler
5200 Judson Rd. North Longview, TX 75605
We Support The Longview
Independent School District
March 3 Employee Appreciation Day 8 a.m. Lady Lobos varsity softball at Whitehouse tourney 8 a.m. Lady Lobos JV softball at Texas Two-Step tourney (Lear Park) 8 a.m. Lobos varsity baseball at Oil Belt tourney (Kilgore) 8 a.m. Lobos JV baseball (green) at Liberty-Eylau tourney 8 a.m. Lobos JV baseball (white) at Pittsburg tourney 8 a.m. Lobo tennis at Coppell tourney 4 p.m. Lobos soccer at John Tyler 5:30 p.m. Lady Lobos soccer hosts John Tyler March 4 8 a.m. Lobos golf at Twisted 43 tourney (Woodhollow and Pinecrest) 8 a.m. Lady Lobos varsity softball at Whitehouse tourney 8 a.m. Lady Lobos JV softball at Texas Two-Step tourney (Lear Park) 8 a.m. Lobos varsity baseball at Oil Belt tourney (Kilgore) 8 a.m. Lobos powerlifting at Regional meet (Lindale) 12 p.m. Lobos JV baseball (green) at Lindale 12 p.m. Lobos JV baseball (white) at Pittsburgh March 5 8 a.m. Lobos golf at Twisted 43 tourney (Woodhollow and Pinecrest) 1:30 p.m. Longview Museum of Fine Arts 57th annual Student Show: March 6 11 a.m. LISD Foundation fundraiser (On The Border) 7 p.m. Board of Trustees Regular Meeting (ESC building) March 7 8 a.m. MIddle School Relays (Lobo Stadium) 5:30 p.m. Lobos soccer hosts Rockwall 5:30 p.m. Lady Lobos soccer at Rockwall 5:30 p.m. Lady Lobos softball at Tyler Lee 6 p.m. Johnston-McQueen 1st Grade Choir Concert March 9 8 a.m. Lobos baseball at Reich Builders tourney (Hallsville) 8 a.m. Lady Lobos golf at Lindale Invitational 4 p.m. Lobos tennis hosts All Saints March 10 8 a.m. Lobos baseball at Reich Builders tourney (Hallsville) 8 a.m. Lobos track hosts Lobo Relays 5 p.m. Lobo JV baseball (white) at Gilmer 4:30 p.m. LHS cheerleader tryouts 5:30 p.m. Lobos soccer at Mesquite 5:30 p.m. Lady Lobos soccer hosts Mesquite (Senior Night) 5:30 p.m. Lady Lobos softball hosts Rockwall March 11 Purim holiday SAT testing at LHS 8 a.m. Lobo baseball at Reich Builders tourney (Hallsville) March 12 Daylight Saving Time (begins) March 13 Holi (Hindu holiday) Spring Break (March 13-17) 6 p.m. Lobos JV baseball (green) at Mesquite Horn March 14 11 a.m. Lady Lobos softball at North Mesquite
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THE LONGVIEW VOICE —
February/March 2017
ELEMENTARY
Random Acts of Kindness Day Science In a perfect world every day is filled with kindness. Unfortunately we've all experienced difficult days. Despite a rough week earlier this month, Johnston-McQueen students still had several students who performed random acts of kindness throughout the day. From Pre-K through 5th grade kindness was displayed ranging from opening doors, giving away pencils, leaving money in the sticker machine for someone else, helping classmates with their work, to a student reminding other students to be nice because it's kindness day. These students were recognized and given an unexpected 'sweet treat'. Thank you for showing kindness to others and hopefully we can see an even better turnout next time!
Fairs have big turnout, fun for community
JL Everhart Elementary student Hector Rodriguez’s essay was selected to represent his campus at the 2017 Lamplighter Award banquet at Pinecrest Country Club. Students were asked to write about an educator who inspired them and Hector Rodriguez wrote about 5th Grade teacher Mrs. Amy Streetman. Congrats Hector and Mrs. Streetman!
Science Night at PEP Thanks to everyone who came out to Science Night on Feb. 9 at Hudson PEP Elementary!
Future scientists put their concepts to work at the district’s two Science Fair last month. Students from all over the district came together for a little friendly competition and a grade. Projects offered conclusions on energy efficient windmills and how water affects Gummy Bears among many other things. The fourth-grade winner was Hudson PEP’s Jackie Wang who examined bridge durability. “We had some parents working with LeTourneau College and they took their kids over there to work with the professors, and I think that’s great to get everyone in the community involved,” said Forest Park Middle School Assistant Principal Shalona McCray. Great job by all our LISD students, judges, staff and volunteers in another Junior Science Fair and District Science Fair on Feb. 9-10! Congrats to all our winners!
Daddy-Daughter Dance Learning at Johnston-McQueen ROCKS! Fathers and their little girls packed Johnston-McQueen Elementary on Feb. 10 for the school’s annual ‘Daddy-Daughter Dance.’ So thankful for the volunteers who spent countless hours planning, decorating, working and cleaning up. Each one of you made t his event happen and the smiles and laughter that filled the room should be a reminder of why we do what we do! Also a big thank you to Stageworks for the lighting, Chick-fil-A, Smallcakes and Regal Longview Stadium 14 for contributing to the Daddy/Daughter Gift basket giveaway and Mama Tee’s Cakes and Catering for the fabulous cookie party favors.
Everhart Lamplighter
During science class on Jan. 27 Bramlette Elementary 5th Grade teacher Alexis Popelar’s students made examples of sedimentary rocks using water bottles and epsom salt as part of their study of geology and fossil fuels in Science.
Family fun at South Ward ‘D.A.D.’ workshop
Communities In Schools and South Ward Elementary partnered up for a “D.A.D. Workshop” at the campus this week. Site Coordinator Wynetta Jones said the program, now in its second year at the school, continues to be a great way to engage the local community. Guest speaker was Watch Dog “Top Dog” Christopher Jones, and the program theme was “Building a Stronger Bond and a Healthier Self Esteem.” One popular activity involved fathers facing their children and raising both hands as if they were about to give their child a “high five,” Jones said. The child then placed their palm matching up and touching their father’s hands. “The children were instructed to keep their hands doing whatever their dads’ hands do and stay connected. Dads moved their hands in all directions at different speeds,” she said. “The smiles were priceless!” Jones said they were instructed to stop and then start again, but this time the children were to move their hands about 6-8 inches away from the fathers. Fathers begin moving their hands again in all directions at different speeds. “The laughter was contagious!” she said. “It’s easy to see that when your hands are not connected to your child’s hands, it’s harder for them to follow you. I think the lesson from this is that when your hearts are connected to your child’s heart, it’s hard for them to follow you too.”
THE LONGVIEW VOICE —
February/March 2017
Hudson PEP now accepting applications
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pplications are being accepted at Hudson PEP Elementary School for the 2017-18 school year. Deadline is April 28 for students entering 2nd through 5th grades. Hudson PEP is a district-wide school in Longview ISD for students who perform in the average to above-average range in grades 1-5. Applicants for first grade must be at least six (6) years of age by Sept. 1, 2017. If your child is currently enrolled at an LISD campus, applications must be submitted to that campus. All others, return to Hudson PEP Elementary at 1311 Lilly Street, Longview, TX 75602 (private and out of district). Each student who applies to attend Hudson PEP
will be given an achievement test and an aptitude test. Out of district applicants must pay a $65 testing fee. No test fee will be refunded if your child is not accepted or if parents decline placement. LISD Superintendent Dr. James Wilcox said the district will host a series of public events to help inform the public about the programs and facilities of Hudson PEP. “Parents of 1st through 5th graders are welcome to visit at 6 p.m. Tuesday, April 11,” he said. “Longview ISD will also provide campus tours, childcare, and interpretation services to attendees.” To sign up for free transportation to and from any of the events, please contact Assistant Superintendent Dr. Jody Clements via email at jclements@lisd.org or by telephone at (903) 3812235. Deadline is Jan. 27 to sign up for free transportation at the February meeting. Deadline for free transportation is April 4 for the 1st through 5th grade meeting. Parents who sign up for free transportation will be picked up and dropped off at their student’s home campus. “Please also note that the district will provide
students at each respective campus with tours of Hudson PEP Elementary School during regular school hours this semester,” Wilcox added. “Longview ISD will notify parents in writing of the date on which their child is scheduled to tour Hudson PEP.” The goal of Hudson PEP is to develop the whole child — academically, socially, creatively, physically and morally. A planned enrichment program (PEP) is part of the curriculum and an integrated character education program, highly involved parental support, nurturing staff and motivated students help form the foundation for strong self-confidence. Students have the opportunity to participate in music, art, physical education and computer with certified teachers in all grades. The program also includes a hands-on STEM (science, technology, engineering, and mathematics) program. In fifth grade, students may participate in band or choir. A strings program is offered for students in grades 3-5. Applications can be downloaded from the district’s website, for more information please call (903) 803-5123. Hudson PEP Enrollment Timeline March 20: Hudson PEP application letters will be mailed to all students entering second through fifth grade April 11: An informational meeting will be held at 6 p.m. for all parents of children entering second through fifth grades at Hudson PEP. April 28: Applications will be due for students entering second through fifth grades May 15-19: Testing for students entering second through fifth grades.
Wonderful hosts! P.T.A.
Founders Day
Longview ISD Board of Trustees gathered Jan. 25 for a special meeting at South Ward Elementary. The meal was provided by campus staff, and students welcomed their guests in style. We’ve sure got some excellent folks at LISD!
Elementary UIL Academic
Bramlette Elementary PTA celebrated Founders Day on Feb. 9, and recognized three young artists for their work by presenting special achievement awards. 1st place (Photography): Israel Purdum 1st place (Visual Arts): Carolyn Purdum 2nd place (Visual Arts): Jessica Hernandez All 3 entries were submitted to State and the winners will be posted in March on txpta.org!
Donuts For Dads Great turnout for Hudson PEP’s “Donuts For Dads” event. Not only does this support the campus Book Fair, but it’s a great way for our community to be more involved. Thanks to all the dads who participated, and the many volunteers who made it happen!
Elementary UIL winners shared their experiences in this year’s district meet during the Feb. 13 regular board meeting. UIL Academic is something that Longview ISD takes very seriously, and it’s so rewarding to see how this emphasis is paying off in our students’ education.
Page 5 7 p.m. Lobos baseball hosts Mesquite Horn (Senior Night) March 17 Saint Patrick’s Day 1 p.m. Lobos JV baseball (green) hosts Mesquite Horn 7 p.m. Lobos baseball at Mesquite Horn March 18 8 a.m. Lady Lobos powerlifting at State meet (Waco) 11 a.m. Lobos JV baseball (white) at Kilgore March 20 Spring Equinox Progress Reports sent home 8 a.m. Middle school track at Lufkin 7 p.m. Lobos JV baseball (white) hosts Tyler Lee March 21 8 a.m. Lobos JV track at Lufkin meet 4 p.m. Lobos JV baseball (green) at Tyler Lee 5 p.m Lady Lobos soccer at Pine Tree 5:30 p.m. Lady Lobos softball hosts John Tyler 7 p.m. Lobos baseball at Tyler Lee March 23 8 a.m. Lobos track at Panther Relays (Lufkin) March 24 8 a.m. Lobos tennis hosts Longview tourney 8 a.m. Lady Lobos golf at Pine Tree invitational 4 p.m. Lobos JV baseball (green) hosts Tyler 5:30 p.m. Lady Lobos softball at Rockwall Heath 7 p.m. Lobos baseball hosts Tyler March 25 8 a.m. Lady Lobos golf at Pine Tree invitational 8 a.m. Lobos powerlifting at State meet (Abilene) 8 a.m. Lady Lobos track at Jesuit Relays (Dallas) 12 p.m. Lobos JV baseball (white) at Tyler Lee March 27 8 a.m. Lobos golf at Lindale invitational 4:30 p.m. Viewette tryouts March 28 STAAR testing begins 5:30 p.m. Lady Lobos softball hosts Mesquite 6 p.m. Lobos JV baseball (green) at Rockwall 7 p.m. Lobos baseball hosts Rockwall March 29 8 a.m. Lobos JV tennis hosts Longview tourney 11:30 a.m. Board of Trustees Special Meeting (ESC building) March 30 8 a.m. Lobos track at Gas Capital Relays (Carthage) 8 a.m. Middle school track at Tyler meet 5 p.m. Middle School UIL Band Concert (Melton Center) 5:30 p.m. Lobos JV baseball (white) hosts Spring Hill March 31 César Chávez Day 8 a.m. Lobos tennis at Hope Open Tournament (Tyler) 8 a.m. Middle school track at Tyler meet 5:30 p.m. Lady Lobos softball at Mesquite Horn 6 p.m. Lobos JV baseball (green) hosts Rockwall 7 p.m. Lobos baseball at Rockwall
C . O . M . P. A . N . Y 2320 Judson Rd. Longview, TX 75605
903-753-7133
www.murrayjewelry.com
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MIDDLE SCHOOL
Foster wins back-to-back Math/Science meets Foster wins back-toback Math/Science meets Foster Middle School’s powerhouse Math & Science team continued their winning streak over the weekend, earning another 1st place team trophy at the Daingerfield Meet. The Dragons rolled up a total of 4,354 points, trailed by Hallsville with 4,206 points and Pine Tree a distant third with 3,808 points. Foster 6th grade Gifted & Talented teacher Christi Shobert said Saturday’s event was the first chance for students to qualify for the state meet on April 22. “We hope to see more students qualify in the next two weeks,” she added. Upcoming chances to qualify will be Feb 25 at Spring Hill and March 4 at Queen City. TMSCA State competition is set for April 22. State qualifiers at the Daingerfield meet include: Number Sense 7th grade: 1) Aditya Jagarlamudi (313) (Q) 2) Gowri Rangu (260) (Q) 3) Rachna Edalur (251) (Q) 4) Nitya Jagarlamudi (242) (Q) 8th grade: 6) Mario Diola (213) (Q) Also qualifying: Mya Vaughn, Safin Chowdhury, Ayaan Khan, Emma Cate Williams Calculator 6th grade: 10) Katelyn Clendenin (184) (Q) 7th grade: 2) Rachna Edalur (319) (Q) 3) Aditya Jagarlamudi (310) (Q) 5) Safin Chowdhury (247) (Q) 6) Gowri Rangu (247) (Q) 8th grade: 1) Harrison Lin (328) (Q) 10) Braden Nickel (247) Also qualifying: Natalie Holder, Nitya Jagarlamudi General Math 6th grade: 6) Luke Archer (79) 7) Delia Fourie (76)
Judson essay contest honors Black History Month
7th grade: 1) Aditya Jagarlamudi (212) (Q) 2) Rachna Edalur (187) (Q) 3) Gowri Rangu (164) (Q) 4) Nitya Jagarlamudi (154) (Q) 5) Natalie Holder (144) (Q) 8) Matthew Guck (124) (Q) 9) Safin Chowdhury (124) (Q) 10) Brayden Strong (121) 8th grade: 2) Mario Diola (172) (Q) 6) Harrison Lin (147) 8) Braden Nickel (136) Science 6th grade: 3) Delia Fourie (107) 5) Grace Rucker (103) 7th grade: 1) Matthew Guck (161) (Q) 7) Aditya Jagarlamudi (127) (Q) 8) Sterrett Waltrip (126) 10) Neha Nirmal (125) 8th grade: 4) Nicholas Goodan (141) 5) Harrison Lin (136) 8) Mario Diola (130) Foster previously won a 1st place team trophy during a Jan. 28 meet at Pine Tree. “It’s a joy to work with these kids and to celebrate their hard work and accomplishments,” Shobert added. Foster Principal John York echoed Shobert’s praise, adding that the students accomplished these feats while also maintaining academic excellence in regular coursework. “You look at how hard these young people are working at this level of academic competition, then you realize they’re doing this in addition to their day to day classes,” he said. “It really impresses you, and illustrate the high quality of students at Longview ISD.” Individual results for the Pine Tree meet: Number Sense 6th grade: 9th place Mya Vaughan (85) 7th grade: 1st) Aditya Jagarlamudi (373), 2nd) Rachna Edalur (249), 4th) Iniabasi Ekpenyong (207), 5th) Nitya Jagarlamudi (205), 6th) Gowri Rangu (201) 8th grade: 7th) Mario Diola (216) Calculator 7th grade: 1st) Aditya Jagarlamudi (310), 3rd) Safin Chowdhury (274), 4th) Iniabasi Ekpenyong (256), 6th) Nitya Jagarlamudi (238), 9th) Rachna Edalur (229) 8th grade: 5th) Alex Rojas (292), 6th) Alexandra Rojas (283) General Math 6th grade: 7th) Abigail Hilton (43), 8th) Luke Archer (42) 7th grade: 1st) Aditya Jagarlamudi (159), 2nd) Iniabasi Ekpenyong (137), 3rd) Rachna Edalur (132), 4th) Gowri Rangu (120), 5th) Nitya Jagarlamudi (117), 8th) Neha Nirmal (87) 8th grade: 4th) Mario Diola (114), 5th) Alexandra Rojas (109), 7th) Nicholas Goodan (106), 8th) Harrison Lin (102) Science 6th grade: 2nd) Kayden Newhouse (129), 3rd) Leilani Mercier (124), 5th) Francyne Diola (105), 6th) Soyemi Grace (105), 7th) Delia Fourie (101), 8th) Christina Holder (96), 9th) Julianna McCardell (84) 7th grade: 2nd) Aditya Jagarlamudi (176), 3rd) Nitya Jagarlamudi (173), 5th) Safin Chowdhury (164), 6th) Matthew Guck (162), 8th) Dylan Gonzalez (145), 9th) Iniabasi Ekpenyong (143) 8th grade: 7th) Stella Barton (153), 10th Mario Diola (149)
Get Your Badges On Judson Middle School teacher Kristina Graegin won six new Chromebooks last month for her students as part of the Instructional Technology department’s “Get Your Badges On” program. The initiative encourages LISD teachers to utilize a variety technology tools and resources, incorporating them into regular classroom instruction.
Principal William Houff challenged students at Judson Middle School to write an essay about what question they would ask a prominent African-American. “Black History Month is a time to honor the many African-Americans who have had an impact on our nation’s history,” Houff said. “So we invited our students to think about a famous African-American, whether alive or dead, and write an essay about what question they would ask them, and why.” Houff said the goal was to encourage his students to reflect on the countless contributions made by great African-Americans.
Dragonettes win big at dance meet
Foster Middle School’s “Dragonettes” dance team won several honors over the weekend at the Gussie Nell Davis Dance Classic in Kilgore. The dance team earned Sweepstakes and the Gussie Nell Davis Award of Excellence trophy for earning Division 1 rating category in all three dances, as well as Best in Class second runner-up and a bronze medal overall. Dragonettes dance teacher Alicia Worsham described the entire event as “a huge success!” “They not only performed the best they’ve done all year, but they also got to watch a lot of different dance styles/other teams, tour the Rangerette dorms, and see the Rangerettes perform!” she said.
Thank you Miss Melba! Congratulations to longtime LISD staffer Miss Melba Smith on a wellearned retirement! Staffers honored longtime administrator Melba Smith in a special ceremony Jan. 27 at the district ESC building.
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Forest Park tech camp seeks sponsors
A
new technology camp for middle school students is looking for local companies to help fund equipment and tuition costs for financially-disadvantaged youth. “Raspberry Pi Summer Camp” attendees will build their own computer, install two operating systems, learn some basic coding using the Python language to customize Minecraft, and then take the entire completed project home with them when finished. Jennifer Smith, LISD Instructional Technology Specialist, said the program needs just a little over $1,000 for the 11 kits that students will be using, in addition to tuition assistance for students of promise whose families may have difficulty covering the cost. “Our middle school campus is largely low socioeconomic families without technology resources. Without these resources, we know students have a tough time finding a level playing field with their more affluent peers. But what if we could
change that?” she said. “What if we could teach students to build their own low cost computer and get them started on coding? What if there were low cost customizations they could make on their own to the computer such as adding a webcam for only 15 dollars — easy enough for a kid to save up for and purchase? We could change not only that student’s life, but perhaps the whole family dynamic.” The Longview ISD Education Foundation has provided the ‘seed money’ to do the project, and Smith said her group is seeking tuition assistance for this year’s campers. Tuition replaces the equipment for next year’s campers and provides a nominal salary for the 2 staff members. The kits run $80 dollars each, so to completely fund the camp (where no student would have to pay) would run just shy $1,200. “Doing so allows the camp to be self-funding and continues to refresh with current versions of the hardware,” Smith added. Lunch for the camp will also be provided through the LISD summer food program. The projec t will continue throughout the school year with “Raspberr y Jam sessions” where students who built a Raspberry Pi or who are interested in the process can get together after school and show off their projects, network with other students and staff, and build a learning community. For more information about how you can help support this program, please contact Jennifer Smith at jlsmith@lisd.org or (903) 446-2531.
LeTourneau hoopsters visit Forest Park Members of the LeTourneau University basketball team said they had a blast working with our Forest Park Middle School hoopsters on Tuesday. We love our community partners, and the many excellent volunteers who give of their time and expertise!
Beard, Snoddy team up for town meeting
High Street traffic and Montessori education highlighted a town meeting Feb. 1 that brought city and school issues to one venue. District 2 Councilwoman Nona Snoddy and Place 6 Longview ISD trustee Ted Beard spoke before around 50 area residents at Ware Elementary on a variety of issues facing the community. Thank you Mrs. Snoddy and Mr. Beard for providing a forum for residents to talk about issues important to the community!
Smith honored as custodial employee of the year Teachers... Receive an extra week FREE when you place an ad in Longview’s Thifty Nickel! Buy 1 Week, get the second week free with your faculty ID! *20 word ad
Longview ISD custodial worker Laqunica Smith was named Employee of the Year on Jan. 27 by GCA Services. The Dallas-based company handles janitorial services for the district. GCA Services spokesman Jim Schubiger and regional manager Jeff Chamberlain presented Laquinca with a $100 gift card and a trophy at Longview Early Graduate High School, where she works as Lead Custodian. “Miss Smith demonstrates all the attributes we look for when considered for Employee of the Year,” Schubiger said. “Her campus consistently receives all A’s on their Custodial Survey Report Card each month from the principal, and the Inspections performed on her campus are above reproach.” Laquinca was presented a Recognition Award, five GCA embroidered ‘Employee of the Year’ shirts, and a $100 Gift Card. “We are extremely proud to have her on our team within GCA and LISD,” Schubiger added. “Laquinca Smith embodies every quality we work to cultivate in our company.”
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HIGH SCHOOL
Students earn national FFA honor Three Longview FFA chapter members were awarded the American Degrees last month at the 89th annual National FFA Convention and Expo in Indianapolis, Indiana. Haley Weeks, Callie Faul, and Cara Cummings were recognized for their outstanding achievements in agriculture business, production, processing or service programs. John Denson, Longview High agriculture instructor, said the American FFA Degree is awarded to members who have demonstrated the highest level of commitment to FFA and made significant accomplishments in their supervised agricultural experiences (SAEs). “It is the first time in a long time that we have had the American,” he said. “I do not know when the last one was, but this year we had three.” The American FFA Degree is awarded at the National FFA Convention & Expo each year to less than 1 percent of FFA members, making it one of the organization’s highest honors. Eligible members must have earned and productively invested $10,000 through a supervised agricultural experience program in which they start, own or hold a professional position in an existing agriculture enterprise. Recipients must also complete 50 hours community service and demonstrate outstanding leadership abilities and civic involvement. A total of 3,780 degrees were awarded in 2016 to a select group of students in recognition of academic and professional experience. Each recipient receives a gold American FFA Degree key, certificate and matted frame after being recognized onstage at the national convention.
LHS senior a national finalist
Palmer performs for board
Longview High School senior Hannah Palmer delighted Longview ISD trustees and all in attendance at the Feb. 13 board meeting with a stirring rendition of “I Dreamed a Dream” from the musical Les Misérables. Ms. Palmer, winner of the “Longview’s Got Talent” talent show earlier this year, received a standing ovation for her performance.
Longview High School is proud to announce that Neal Rangu has been named a National Merit Scholar! Rangu is one of approximately 15,000 students nationwide to earn this honor. This honor is based on Neal’s high PSAT score. Over 1.6 million students entered the National Merit competition by taking the PSAT. Congratulations, Neal!
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February/March 2017
Raúl Sanchez of Lobo Tire and Auto Repair says, "Invest in what goes between you and the ground." If you're looking for a tire place, Lobo Tire does great work and at a reasonable price. They're quick too. Downtown at the corner of Sixth Street and Whaley. “We are proud to support our Lobos, whether it’s on the field of play or in the classroom,” Sanchezsaid. “Lobo Tire is glad to contribute to Longview ISD excellence in all its programs and activities.”
Deadline is March 31 for Mayor’s Scholarship Once again Mayor Andy Mack is offering the City of Longview Mayoral Scholarship. Deadline is Friday, March 31 for any area students interested in applying. Graduating students from Longview, Pine Tree, Spring Hill, or Hallsville ISDs are eligible to apply for the $1,250 Mayor Mack Scholarship to the college of their choosing. One scholarship will be awarded per high school equaling $5,000 in scholarships to area students for furthering their education. Funding for this scholarship is provided by the mayor’s annual stipend. Mack said that, rather than take a salary, the mayor’s stipend will be used to invest in students’ futures. “I think it’s a good thing to do for the community, for the kids something that is positive, something these kids appreciate,” he said. A board certified oral and maxillofacial surgeon, Dr. Andy Mack has been donating his city salary since first serving as a councilman from 1997 to 2005. Applicants must be a resident within the city limits of Longview and be a graduating senior from either Longview, Pine Tree, Spring Hill, or Hallsville school districts. Interested students must complete and return the scholarship application by 5 p.m. March 31. The application includes a one-page essay on how you desire to make an impact on improving Longview. Late applications will not be accepted. Return applications by mail to City of Longview c/o Mayor Mack’s Scholarship, P.O. Box 1952, Longview, TX 75606. Alternatively, return in person to City Hall at 300 W. Cotton St., Longview, TX. For more information please check out the website LongviewTexas.gov/ Scholarship or call (903) 237-1000.
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SPORTS
Lobo athletes taking talents to the next level
Six Longview studentathletes officially committed to play collegiate athletics during a signing ceremony Feb. 1st in the LHS Turf Room. “We’re extremely proud of what these young people have accomplished during their time at Longview High School, and we’re glad to celebrate their athletic careers as they continue on to the college level,” said Athletic Director John King. Na t iona l eques t r ia n champion Mary Katherine Camp signed with Texas Christian University, while accomplished pro soccer prospect Austin Vincent committed to play for Southern Methodist University for the next four years. Four senior Lobos off the 8-3 playoff and district co-champion football team are also going to compete at the next level. All-state defensive back Traveion Webster signed with University of Louisiana at Monroe, while all-state lineman Kendall Starling and teammates Cameron Quinney and Ahmad Farrier will continue their playing careers on the same squad, as all three signed with Kilgore College. National Signing Day, usually held on the first Wednesday of February, is the first day that a high school senior can sign a binding National Letter of Intent for college athletics.
Pauley earns State honors! Congratulations to Viewettes Captain Abigail Pauley for representing the team so well as a member of the 2017 All State Drill Team!
Viewette Auditions NOW AVAILABLE
2017-2018 Audition packets are now available for pick up in the Viewette Studio! If you are interested in auditioning please come pick up your packet! Only 1 packet per candidate will be issued!
Riding horses leads to signing day for Camp By Jamey Boyum, KLTV It was signing day all across East Texas, but not all the scholarships handed out were for football. Mary Katherine Camp was seated next to a whole bunch of football players at Longview High School, but her signing has nothing to do with cleats; it has to do with riding boots. “I’ve been riding horses since I was four, so a really long time,” Mary said. “Did you ever expect it to pay for school?” I asked Mary. “I did not. I was not expecting this. I was kind of surprised when I got recruited,” she replied. She was offered a partial scholarship from TCU after competing in the American Junior Paint Horse Association World Championship last year, and her parents couldn’t be more proud. Mary is an equestrian. Many around these parts are familiar with horses and rodeo, but equestrianism is a little different than rodeo, and it’s a pretty quick search to find examples of it online. At a competition: “You draw a horse and it’s just a random horse and you show it, and then someone from the other school shows the same horse and whoever does better on it wins; gets the point,” Mary explained. She says there are many different types of competition at the World Championships. “I’m on the horsemanship team, so you have to hold your hands a certain way and there’s cone set out and you do a pattern. And basically whoever executes the pattern right wins,” Mary stated. Her family didn’t have a background in ranching or anything, but when they moved to Texas from Louisiana years ago, her sister just had to jump on a horse. “My sister, when she was in first grade, she was like, ‘I’m in Texas, I need to ride horses’, so I did it because my sister did it, and it stuck,” Mary revealed. Mary’s mom Rebecca never dreamed her daughter’s riding would lead to this. “This; [making] a college career out of it, world titles, all of that,” Rebecca said. So while most of the signers were getting a ride because of the pigskin, Mary’s ride involves horsehide. Mary won two classes at the American Junior Paint Horse Association World Championship: Age 14-18 Western Pleasure and Age 14-18 Horsemanship, which is why TCU recruited her.
Lobo cheer lends a hand
Big heartfelt thanks to these LHS Lobo cheerleaders for donating their time to help stuff “swag bags” at Langston Law Firm for the AHA Go Red for Women Luncheon in Longview!
Traveion Webster takes talents to Louisiana By Justin Woodard, KLTV All it takes is one. Longview defensive back Traveion Webster only had one FBS offer, but now he will get the chance to play big-time college football. Webster officially signed with Louisiana Monroe on Wednesday joining fellow East Texan Austin Hawley from the Class of 2017. In recent years, numerous Lobos have gone to play at the Division I level. Next season, Longview products Dorian Leonard and Travin Howard, just to name a few will be suiting up as well.
Photo by Kate Murray Langston
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