“The way to get started is to quit talking and begin doing.” ― Walt Disney
Vol. VII February 2022
Sharing the good news about Longview Independent School District
ACHIEVING GREATNESS Longview Early Graduation High School sees off a batch of new grads
O
nce again, Longview Early Graduation High School has successfully prepared another group of students for the future. On Thursday, Jan. 20, a ceremony was held on their campus where 22 graduates were applauded as they walked across the stage to receive their diplomas. Congratulations! Longview ISD is so proud of every one of you! Grads|Continued to page 14
The Longview Voice has now been spr eading the good news about LISD for 6 year s. See Opinion on Page 2
January was the School Board Recognition Month, and we appr eciate our tr ustees. See Board on Page 5
Applications are being accepted for the ‘Voice’ scholar ship. See Sports on Page 6
Check out the latest social media posts that you may have missed. See Social on Page 18
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THE LONGVIEW VOICE — February 2022
OPINION
The Longview Voice six years later By Matthew Prosser It sounded like a crazy idea, to be honest. The first time I heard about it, I didn’t think it would work: A school district, publishing a newspaper? Crazy! But so crazy that it just might work... and here we are now, six years later, and The Longview Voice continues to hum along like a well-oiled machine. “Sharing the good news about Longview ISD” is our mission, and it is a mission that the Community Relations department takes seriously. An added benefit of this continued success is how this paper enables the district to honor hard-working students, who win Voice Scholarships each year. Each year we select a Lobo senior who contributes work to The Longview Voice for a scholarship. You can read more about this on Page 6. In the last few years, we’ve awarded upwards of $20,000 in scholarships to worthy Longview High graduates. In my humble opinion, it’s one of the most important things about this endeavor. I can’t tell
you how proud it makes suade.” While nothme to play a small part ing published in this in helping young peonewspaper is meant to ple take the next step mislead, I do confess in their education and that one of our objeccareer. tives is to “persuade.” When it was anLongview ISD is one nounced that our disof the finest school trict would be starting districts in the state of a newspaper, I heard Texas. That’s not opinPROSSER criticism that this ion or hyperbole, that’s would amount to fact. There’s little more than plenty of data “propaganda” for to back that up. the district. If Just check the it’s “propagannumbers. da” to spotlight Unfortunatestudent excelly, there are lence, honor the a number of tireless work of distortions and our educators, flawed percepand celebrate tions about this the many, many district, our wonderful things campuses, and happening in our mission. To Lobo Nation, this end, The well... paint me Voice has proven red and call me to be an invaluTrotsky, comable resource rade. to help correct Propaganda is faulty views of defined as “inthis district as a First edition of formation that whole, in particThe Longview Voice, is designed to ular, the incredJanuary 2016 mislead or perible work being
done by our many excellent education professionals and our extraordinary students. I have absolutely no regret or reservation about the intent and purpose of this newspaper. In a world of increasing confusion about what is true and what is false, we will continue to be one small voice speaking clearly about what Longview Independent School District is all about. Come what may, The Longview Voice will keep sharing the good news of Longview Independent School District. There are so many incredible things happening here, so many amazing stories about amazing people, and we try to tell them all. Our students, our teachers, our parents, our community deserve nothing less. Here’s to six years of good news, and many, many more to come!
— An award-winning journalist and photographer, Matthew Prosser is Communications Director for Longview Independent School District.
What to do about the looming tech nightmare? By Rick Hess Education Week School closures fueled by COVID and staffing shortages have been well documented of late. Far less attention has been paid to the spate of major school districts shuttered by cyberattacks. Earlier this month, the Albuquerque public schools were forced to cancel classes due to a cyberattack that locked district staff out of the student-information database they use to record attendance, determine who is permitted to pick students up from school, and store student emergency contacts. Last March, the Buffalo, N.Y., district canceled classes for two days in response to a ransomware attack. Since the start of the pandemic, cyberattacks have also prompted school closures in districts including Hartford, Conn.; Newhall, Calif.; and Somerset Hills, N.J. What can be done about this growing threat? Well, Eileen
Belastock, the director in 2018.” The explosion of technology and inforin online learning during mation for the Nauset the pandemic only expublic schools in Masacerbated these chalsachusetts, tackles that lenges. In 2020, there issue in a fascinating, were a record-breaking deeply troubling artinumber of publicly cle for Education Next reported cybersecurity (remember, I’m an ediincidents—“408 across tor at Ed Next). In “Our 377 school districts in 40 HESS Biggest Nightmare Is states, according to the Here,” Belastock exK–12 Cybersecurity Cenplores the cybersecurity risks ter,” or “a rate of more than two facing America’s schools and just incidents per school day throughhow ill-prepared many systems out 2020.” are for the challenge. At a time Ransomware poses a particwhen schools have become exular danger to schools. First, traordinarily reliant on vulnera- hackers engage in “distributed ble technology, it’s hard to think denial-of-service attacks,” where of a more important topic that a flood of internet traffic disrupts gets less day-to-day attention a district’s network and presents (although Education Week’s users from accessing payroll own Alyson Klein deserves a hat platforms, student schedules, or tip for paying more than a little email applications. Then, while attention to it in stories like this school networks are offline, they and this). use malware to take control of As Belastock explains, “Of a district’s data and demand a the 17 industries studied by ransom to restore access. information-security company As of this past August, Politico SecurityScorecard, the education has reported that ransomware sector ranked as the least secure attacks have hit 58 education
organizations and school districts, including 830 individual schools. Last March, the Broward County, Fla., district didn’t pay a $40 million ransom, leading the hackers to publish 26,000 stolen files online (these included student and staff Social Security numbers and addresses). Things may only get worse, Belastock fears. The Consortium for School Networking has reported that hackers are shifting from companies “which are devoting increased resources to cyber defenses,” to more vulnerable sectors like “school districts, universities, and nonprofits.” So, what now?. — Rick Hess is a resident scholar at the American Enterprise Institute and the director of the think tank’s Education Policy Studies.
THE LONGVIEW VOICE — February 2022
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C I N ASEYOU MIS SED I T Longview ISD calls and emails
Are you getting calls and emails from your campus and the district? If not, we have a few ways to help. Check and update contact information in Skyward. Call the campus and have them update the contact information. Email ask@lisd.org for any additional concerns or questions. Campus Phone Numbers: ETMPA - (903) 803-5000 Bailey School - (903) 803-5200 Bramlette STEAM Academy - (903) 803-5600 Hudson PEP Elementary - (903) 8035100 JL Everhart - (903) 803-5400 JMQ - (903) 803-5300 Ned E Williams - (903) 803-5500 Ware ETMA - (903) 803-5700 Forest Park MS - (903) 446-2510 Foster MS - (903) 446-2710 Judson STEAM Academy - (903) 4462610 LEGHS – (903) 381-3921 LHS - (903) 663-1301
LHS Senior Remind Group
Scholarship applications are arriving daily in the College and Career Center, many of which are for LHS seniors only. To make certain you and your senior student know about every scholarship opportunity and other important college news and LHS senior information, please join the Remind Class of 2022 by following these directions: To the number 81020, text @g8d388 and then follow the directions you receive from Remind.
Dual Credit Tuition Assistance
Longview High School students are eligible to receive dual credit tuition assistance through a community partnership with former Longview Lobo, Trent Williams. The goal of the Trent Williams Tuition Assistance Partnership is to provide academic support to students that are historically underserved and will be targeting at-risk and economically disadvantaged students. For more information, please contact the College and Career Center (lhouston@lisd.org 903 663-7133). Access the link for information and application.
Did we miss your district news?
Did we miss district campus or organization news? Send us the pertinent information to ask@LISD.org and we’ll include it in our next issue!
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THE LONGVIEW VOICE — February 2022
Students are skating on good times By Zack Wellerman CBS19 Just outside a Longview High School art classroom, teacher Jeffrey Hull and his Art Car Club students are working hard to revitalize a piece of Longview’s history - a massive roller skate car - to its original form. For over two decades, the skate-shaped auto sat on top of a pole at the former Rollercade skating rink, located at Eastman Road’s intersection with Tryon Road and Eden Drive in Longview. For residents in the area before 1992, the skate was often seen driving around the city and participating in local parades, while serving as a mobile advertisement for the roller rink. Hull, who came to Longview in 1985, remembers seeing the skate on the streets, and when Rollercade shut its doors down, his efforts to get the car for his class amped up. With the help of a crane and trailer, he cut the skate off the pole in 2016. He learned the car was placed on the pole in 1992 without an engine. So, the first thing needed was to get the auto mechanically running. Dan Larson, who was Hull’s auto professor at LeTourneau, helped get the skate car running in time for the Christmas parade in 2019, where the car made its return to the roadways. Now, two senior Art Car Club members Harrison Taylor and Chloe Hamilton are hard at work after school every Tuesday color sanding the skate back to its original blue and yellow lettering. “We promised the owner that we would keep it a Rollercade car because it is kind of an icon,” Hull said. “Our suspicion is that they painted it white and red to stand out more when it was on the pole and when it was a sign for Rollercade. We thought if we’re going to restore it, let’s go back to the original.” Hull said it’s a great feeling to preserve this piece of local history, and noted the skate car was featured in the 2011 movie, “Skateland,” which starred Longview native actor Heath Freeman. “The people who have been in town for a long, long time decades - saw this on the street. Then, all of the people who have been in Longview since 1992 knew it as the sign on top of Rollercade,” Hull said. “It is
an iconic piece for the city of Longview. It is pretty cool to be the caretaker of that and getting it back into shape.” Taylor, who was part of the first group working on the car, said he’s very grateful for the chance to work and recalled stories from his grandmother about how popular the skating rink was. “I would see that roller skate (on the sign) and I thought it was really cool,” Taylor said. “I never thought it was a car and I never thought I’d get the chance to touch it, let alone be part of the restoration process.” Some of the biggest lessons he’s gained through this restoration is the value of meaning and doing something bigger than himself. “I really did have a connection with this as a child. When I was actually able to work on it, I felt something for that,” Taylor said. “I felt, not just a sense of nostalgia for myself, but I felt like I was doing something for the town and it felt good to do something for someone or something bigger than myself.” Taylor said he’s ridden in the
car before and it does require some balance. That’s because the interior still needs work at this time. “Things in there are still kind of bare-bones, but as time goes on, we hope to have more done with the interior to make things a little bit more suitable for passengers,” Taylor said. For Hamilton, this is the first car she’s gotten to work on and she said it’s been fun to work on a skate car, which is something she’d never seen before. “We’re really just trying to restore it because it is a piece of history for this town, and so we’re just trying to restore a little piece of history for Longview,” she said. “I think
it’s really cool that something I’m working on in high school is going to be around for a long time and it’s going to be really big for younger generations.” Hull estimated since getting the skate off the pole, about 30 to 40 students have been a part of the project. Taylor and Hamilton are sanding away to get the skate back to its original coloring for the Houston Art Car Parade on April 9. To help with the work, the club is seeking photos of the skate from before 1992. Right now, the team just has one photo of the car from across the street. Anyone with photos should
THE LONGVIEW VOICE — February 2022
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Thank you Board of Trustees! Longview Independent School District joins over 1,000 school districts throughout Texas celebrating January 2022 as School Board Recognition Month, during the Board of Trustees regular meeting Wednesday, Jan. 26th. Assistant Superintendent Dr. James Hockenberry presented award plaques, gift baskets, and student artwork to LISD board members, explaining that the theme this year is Rising HOCKENBERRY Above. “Year after year, our board goes above and beyond to bring the most innovative initiatives to our various campuses, allowing our students and staff to elevate to greater heights than they ever believed to be possible,” he said. “The 2022 School Board Recognition theme is ‘Rising Above,’ which is especially apt right now, given that many board members are facing unprecedented challenges in trying to navigate complicated and often controversial topics in K-12 education.” Serving as a link between the community and classroom, school board members are elected to establish the policies that provide the framework for public schools. LISD trustees are responsible for an annual budget of more than $78 million, over 8,000 students, and nearly 3,000 staffers. The current Board of Trustees for Longview ISD is Mr. Michael Tubb (Place 1), Mr. Brett Miller (Place 2), Dr. Samir Germanwala (Place 3), Mrs. Ginia Northcutt (Place 4), Mrs. Shan Bauer (Place 5), Mr. Ted Beard (Place 6), and Dr. Troy Simmons (Place 7). Superintendent Dr. James Wilcox praised the tireless work of the board, citing their passion for their community and their love for the students, staff, and WILCOX families of Longview ISD. “Our school board members are volunteers who shoulder critical responsibilities and often make difficult choices for our district, all without pay,” he said. “Their goal is always focused on the future success of
the children in our district.” To honor the more than 7,200 locally elected trustees in Texas, Gov. Greg Abbott has declared January as School Board Recognition Month, and the Texas Association of School Boards (TASB) is encouraging all ABBOTT Texas communities to join the celebration by showing appreciation to these men and women. “While school districts will always face new challenges as they serve the needs of students, Texans can count on their school board members, along with other dedicated school officials, to weather these trials, create opportunities to discuss important issues, develop innovative solutions, and empower educators while remaining focused on their students’ futures,” said Gov. Abbott in his proclamation. Although showing appreciation should be a year-round process, Dr. Wilcox said taking advantage of the designated month “ensures that these important people receive some of the thanks they deserve.” “We are so appreciative of them every month, so celebrating School Board Recognition Month is just one small way to say thanks for all that they do,” he said.
BOND ELECTION
Board members later continued discussions about calling a possible bond election to improve and update several district facilities. As this was only an information item, the board did not vote to call a bond. However, the item will be up for consideration at the trustees’ next regular meeting on Feb. 14th.
Superintendent Dr. James Wilcox reiterated the administration’s stance that the district would not be considering a bond issue where Longview ISD taxes are increased. “What we are looking at is a type of bond called a General Obligation Bond Issue,” he said. “This is a debt of the school district that is payable from taxes against property within the School District.” Dr. Wilcox explained that the proceeds the district would receive from the sale of the general obligation bonds would be used to pay the costs of the projects. Principal and Interest payments would come from an annual debt service property tax levy that is levied against all property within the boundaries of the district.” But what would this mean for Longview ISD taxpayers? “It means no tax rate increase,” said Dr. Wilcox. “These improvements and projects could be fully funded with zero increase to the current tax rate. If approved by the board and voted by the public, it would be a win-win for our students, staff, and local stakeholders.” Back in December the administration finalized a facility needs assessment, and Dr. Wilcox said LISD is unique in that the majority of the district was built during a three-year period. “This requires the district to monitor facilities and make updates periodically to maintain instructional capacity,” he said during last month’s board meeting. One example Dr. Wilcox cited is the Longview High School campus, which is 47 years old and in need of updates. “Without attention to facilities, within the next ten years all of our facilities will require extensive repair at the same time,” he said. “The district also
needs a new facility to meet the demands of our early childhood programs.” During the months of November and December, the district contracted with Dr. Don W. Hooper, from the Granbury-based Center for Quality Leadership, to complete a facilities assessment and help develop a HOOPER master plan for potential improvements, repairs, and upgrades needed at Longview ISD. Some of the key findings from the Center for Quality Leadership include: • An Early Childhood Center is needed for LISD, and site acquisition should be considered to keep the high school from being landlocked as well as to accommodate the facility. • The LHS Career Technology Education facilities and Early College High School programs are severely hindered by facility utilization availability. • Surveillance needs with security cameras and additional lighting for school safety and security at the Longview High campus. • Longview High School classrooms and learning environments need attention. • There are drainage issues throughout the district at all facilities. • Aging HVAC systems and aging roofs at all buildings. Dr. Hooper and his staff presented several recommendations to the district, including building an indoor all-weather Board|Continued to page 19
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THE LONGVIEW VOICE — February 2022
‘Voice’ scholarship seeking applicants Applications for the 2022 Voice Scholarship are now available from the LISD Community Relations Department. To download an application please go to LISD.org. The Longview Voice is a district-wide newspaper that covers student, staff, and local community news. The paper is produced by the LISD Community Relations department in partnership with the Thrifty Nickel, as well as campus staff and volunteers. Each year the Community Relations department selects a Longview High School senior student who contributes work to The Longview Voice for a scholarship to the school of their choice. To qualify a student must submit a news article, op-ed column, or photo to be published
in any edition of The Longview Voice newspaper, and fill out an application to be considered.
PAST WINNERS
2016 — Estrella Gonzales, Keyarro Hollins, Uwa Ihionkhan 2017 — Yosef Ibitayo, Gay-
lon Wiley 2018 — German Zelaya, Jose Velazquez, Michael Vera 2019 — Alyssa Shobert, Brady Miller, Payton Schaap 2020 — Jesse Gonzalez,
Emily Mendenhall 2021— Audrey Smith 2022 — It could be YOU! For more information please contact the Community Relations department via email at ask@LISD.org or call 903-3812200.
Lobo FFA places at Fort Worth Stock Show Four students competed in the Fort Worth Stock Show in the Junior Breeding Heifers. These girls showed really well! They are growing into great showmen! Landry Tubb placed 6th in her Shorthorn class! Angela Moyer placed 12th in her Simmental class! Madison Hunka placed 17th (1st Red Brahman) in a big Brahman class! Kelli Owings placed 19th (3rd Red Brahman) in a huge baby Brahman class! Help us congratulate these ladies on a job well done!
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Lobo Band members put on a show Member of the Big Green Marching Machine put on a wonderful performance at the Region 21 Band Concert on Saturday, Jan. 22! Great job, everyone!
ETAA students put their artistic skills to good use Congratulations to our students from the ETAA campuses, Bramlette, JL Everhart, Johnston McQueen, and Ware! These are fantastic works of art! Keep up the fantastic work!
Judson students make it to the big trucks Congratulations to two of our Judson students who won the Longview City Sanitation Art Truck contest! Jessica and Cassidy were shown their winning artworks when the trucks stopped by Judson on Tuesday, Jan. 25. We are so proud of you!
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THE LONGVIEW VOICE — February 2022
JL Everhart students practice their coding Students at JL Everhart got some great STEM experience by working on their robotics coding in their new Acellus lab! Students are learning to master coding concepts beginning with the fundamentals in 3rd grade. Modern world + modern activities = Jaguars who are best prepared for the future!
Cub Scouts retire American flag at Hudson PEP Members of Cub Scout Den 11 retired the American flag at Hudson PEP on Wednesday, Jan. 19. The cub scouts present at the ceremony were Dawson Jaskiewicz, Grayson Jones, and Jackson Sanders. Cub Scout Den 11 leaders John Jaskiewicz and Amy Pruitt, Committee Chair for Cub Scout Pack 621 also participated. Hudson PEP 3rd and 4th-grade students watched as the old flag was lowered and the new flag was raised.
Total Number of Schools in Texas with 100% Graduation Rates For the 2018-19 academic year, the high school graduation rate in the U.S. was 88%. Texas boasted a graduation rate of 93%, putting it in second place along with Massachusetts, Missouri and Nebraska. With nearly 300 high schools with a 100% graduation rate, Texas represents the highest concentration of schools with a 100% graduation rate in the country.
THE LONGVIEW VOICE — February 2022
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JOHNSTON-MCQUEEN
WARE EAST TEXAS MONTESSORI ACADEMY
JUDSON
601 W Garfield Ave.
259
EAST TEXAS MONTESSORI PREP ACADEMY
LONGVIEW HS
400 N Eastman Rd.
J.L. EVERHART
281
JOHNSTONMCQUEEN ELEMENTARY
BRAMLETTE FOREST PARK
80
EARLY GRADUATION
BRAMLETTE STEAM ACADEMY
ETX MONTESSORI PREP S. WARD
WARE
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FOSTER
111 Tupelo Dr.
HUDSON PEP
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NED E. WILLIAMS ELEMENTARY 5230 Estes Pkwy. J.L. EVERHART ELEMENTARY
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1011 S Mobberly Ave. JUDSON STEAM ACADEMY 5745 Judson Rd.
FOREST PARK MIDDLE SCHOOL
1644 N Eastman Rd. FOSTER MIDDLE
1504 S Martin Luther King Jr. Blvd. LONGVIEW HIGH SCHOOL
201 E Tomlinson Pkwy. EARLY GRADUATION HIGH SCHOOL 410 S Green St.
Registration Begins Soon Now, it’s your turn to learn more:
Visit ChooseLISD.org or call 903-381-2200. Paid for by the MSAP funds.
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THE LONGVIEW VOICE — February 2022
SPORTS
HONORING SENIORS
Lobo seniors celebrate memories during annual football banquet
THE LONGVIEW VOICE — February 2022
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THE LONGVIEW VOICE — February 2022
Lobo tennis dominates Whitehouse Longview varsity tennis defeated Whitehouse in a spring dual at the LHS Tennis Complex, 14-6. Senior leaders Dylan Gonzalez, Jake Chamberlain, Rachna Edalur, and Gowri Rangu were all 2-0 on the day. 2022 spring varsity dual vs Whitehouse: Overall 14-6, Rd 1 W6-4
GIRLS DOUBLES
1. Gowri Rangu/Dylan Gonzalez vs Jacie Gregory/ Skylar Leach: 8-5 2. Phoebe Payne/Namita Reddy vs Sara White/Mariella Castillo: 8-2
BOYS DOUBLES
1. Erick van Zyl/Jake Chamberlain vs Taylor Andre/Camron Allen: 8-0 2. Alec Germanwala/ Jagger Barton vs Joseph Weippert/Blake Smith: 8-4
MIXED DOUBLES
1. Luke Archer/Rachna Edalur vs Jordan Craft/Abigail Zheng: 8-1 2. Joey Hough/Sydney
Singh vs Riyan Chorania/ Avril Cook: 4-8
GIRLS SINGLES
1. Sami Jata vs Ainsley Anderson: 2-8 2. Siri Undavalli vs Heaven Leylen: 6-8
BOYS SINGLES
1. Daniel Pelaia vs Ashton Aguilar: 3-8 2. Nate Roberts vs Nolan Peters: 8-0 Rd 2 W8-2
GIRLS DOUBLES
Skylar Leach: 6-0, 6-2 2. Siri Undavalli/Namita Reddy vs Sara White/Mariella Castillo: 8-1
ia/Avril Cook: 6-2, 6-1 2. Phoebe Payne/Alec Germanwala vs Jordan Craft/ Abigail Zheng: 6-4, 3-6, 3-10
1. Luke Archer/Jake Chamberlain vs Taylor Andre/Blake Smith: 6-0, 6-0 2. Nate Roberts/Jagger Barton vs Joseph Weippert/ Camron Allen: 8-4
1. Sydney Singh vs Ainsley Anderson: 2-8 2. Sami Jata vs Heaven Leylen: 8-1
BOYS DOUBLES
MIXED DOUBLES
1. Erick van Zyl/ Dylan Gonzalez vs Riyan Choran-
GIRLS SINGLES
BOYS DOUBLES
1. Daniel Pelaia vs Ashton Aguilar: 8-4 2. Joey Hough vs Nolan Peters: 8-0
1. Gowri Rangu/Rachna Edalur vs Jacie Gregory/
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LONGVIEW ISD Coded Alert System Approved by the board on Dec. 13, 2021, the Color-Coded Alert System is a communications tool for the entire community to help students, employees, families, and the entire Longview ISD community have a quick and easy reference point to the current status of reported cases of infectious illnesses at district campuses. The colors are organized by level of severity: green, yellow, orange, and red. For more information please refer to the Color-Coded Alert System please contact the LISD Department of Administrative and Pupil Services at 903-381-2200.
Alert Level
GREEN
Infection Level District & campus Infection levels are low and have sustained low levels for at least a two-week period. • Mask wearing is encouraged, but not required. • Hand washing & sanitation is strongly encouraged. • Respiratory etiquette is strongly encouraged.
YELLOW
District & campus infection levels are beginning to rise. The number of infections may not be at an alarming level, but caution should be taken to stop a potential OUTBREAK. • Mask wearing is highly recommended. • Handwashing & sanitation is required. • Respiratory etiquette is strongly required.
ORANGE
Different campuses may have various infection levels. In this case, please see campus website for any protocol changes/updates, or requirements when attempting to visit these campuses. • Mask wearing is highly recommended. • Handwashing & sanitation is required. • Respiratory etiquette is strongly required.
RED
District & campus infection levels are beginning to rise at an alarming rate and are sustaining an uptick. • Mask wearing will be mandated especially if in indoor spaces. • Handwashing & sanitation is required. • Respiratory etiquette is mandated.
Response to COVID-19, Delta Variant, and other Infectious Diseases
District & Campus Protocols Longview ISD and all campuses may return to normal operating procedures. • Visitors are welcome to visit campuses in person, schedule in person meetings with teachers & administration and may eat lunch with child(ren). • No mask mandates are required on district transportation. • (Head Start Services) Universal masking required for all individuals 2 years of age and older when: indoors, for those who are not fully vaccinated, outdoors in crowded areas, two or more individuals in a vehicle. All staff and volunteers in the classroom must be fully vaccinated 01/31/22. • ETMPA shall have a mask mandate! ETMPA shall have a mask mandate! (Federal Requirement for Head Start) Longview ISD and all campuses may begin adding some restrictions such as: • Limit visitor contacts from outside of the campus to 5 per school hour. • Mask wearing on District buses is strongly encouraged. • All outside activities can remain at normal level, Crowded indoor spaces will require additional measures. • (Head Start Services) Universal masking required for all individuals 2 years of age and older when: indoors, for those who are not fully vaccinated, outdoors in crowded areas, two or more individuals in a vehicle. All staff and volunteers in the classroom must be fully vaccinated 01/31/22. • ETMPA shall have a mask mandate! (Federal Requirement for Head Start) There could be various infection levels from campus to campus therefore; some campuses may have tighter restrictions and requirements than others. Please refer to Longview ISD’s website for current infection levels at various campuses as well as Color Coded Alerts for District and/or campuses. If Green or Yellow, campus levels will remain the same as the district. • Mask wearing on District buses is required. • (Head Start Services) Universal masking required for all individuals 2 years of age and older when: indoors, for those who are not fully vaccinated, outdoors in crowded areas, two or more individuals in a vehicle. All staff and volunteers in the classroom must be fully vaccinated 01/31/22. • ETMPA shall have a mask mandate! ETMPA shall have a mask mandate! (Federal Requirement for Head Start) • District Transportation – mask mandate. • Mask Mandate on all campuses & district facilities. • Outside visitors will be limited to in-person parent conference meetings only. • (Head Start Services) Universal masking required for all individuals 2 years of age and older when: indoors, for those who are not fully vaccinated, outdoors in crowded areas, two or more individuals in a vehicle. All staff and volunteers in the classroom must be fully vaccinated 01/31/22. • ETMPA shall have a mask mandate! ETMPA shall have a mask mandate! (Federal Requirement for Head Start)
THE LONGVIEW VOICE — February 2022
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THE LONGVIEW VOICE — February 2022
GRADS |Continued from page 1 Of the 22, some of them also graduated with certifications that will allow them to enter their chosen career path right away: Anaya Johnson — Pharmacy Technician, Michael Kelley — Forklift Operator, Elizabeth McCuin — Forklift Operator, Sonny Stroman — Food Handlers License (currently enrolled in the Culinary Arts program at Kilgore College). We partner with Kilgore College and Texas State Technical College,” said Kristi Means, principal of LEGHS. “Students are also offered courses for Process Operating at the East Texas Advanced Manufacturing Academy.” LEGHS is an accredited high school for students grades 9th through 12th grade. Students enroll for various reasons such as smaller class sizes, flexible schedules, and credit recovery. The school is a testing site
for the Texas Success Initiative, as well as the Armed Services Vocational Aptitude Battery. “The staff at LEGHS is dedicated to making sure 100% of the students enrolled will graduate. The size of the school allows
students not to fall through the cracks,” Principal Means said. “We develop relationships with the students, which proves to make the difference in providing motivaGrads|Continued to page 17
THE LONGVIEW VOICE — February 2022
CHOOSE
R LONGVIEW
SCHOOL
APPLY NOW
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THE LONGVIEW VOICE — February 2022
OBITUARIES Longview ISD offers our most sincere condolences to our extended Lobo family Sally York Kemper On January 21, Sally Kemper laid aside the shackles of time to enter eternity, and with rejoicing was welcomed into the arms of her Lord and Savior, Jesus Christ. After a long battle with ALS, it was time to claim the KEMPER healing she was promised. Today she sings with perfect pitch in her beautiful Alto voice, and, once again, enjoys the full use of her hands, arms, and lungs. Born Sally Irene York on December 22, 1947, to Paul Claud York, and Janice Clair Kennedy York, Sally grew up in Marshall, Texas, was educated in Marshall schools before attending and graduating from Stephen F. Austin State University in December 1969. Her lifelong passion was teaching children with learning disabilities. She earned her BS in Education from SFA, and M.Ed. from Central State University in Edmond, Oklahoma, a second M.Ed. with an emphasis in Educational Assessment from UT Tyler, and certification as a Teacher Leader and Trainer in the acclaimed Reading Recovery Program. She finished her working career after 41 years in Education as Director of Title Programs for Longview Independent School District. In 1962, Sally met Thomas W. Kemper, Jr. (Tuck) at an after-football game dance. While the encounter was brief, their destiny was set. In May of 1967, their paths crossed again, and in a literal matter of minutes, Tuck was deeply in love with Sally. By December, he couldn’t wait any longer. Asking for her hand and lifetime commitment in marriage on Christmas night, in a momentary lapse of judgment, Sally said “yes”. They married on August 30, 1968, and continued a love affair that began in 1962, ended in time last Friday, but which will last for eternity. Sally and Tuck lived a wonderful, full life of adventure together. They followed his career in the U.S. Air Force, living in Arkansas, South Dakota, Texas, Oklahoma, Alabama, Utah, Costa Rica, the Dominican Republic, and finally, back to Texas. In Oklahoma, Sally and Tuck became involved in Crusade Evangelism, and after a mission trip to Campinas, Brazil, both felt led to leave their employment in the states and surrender to cross-cultural missions overseas. After Seminary in 1984, they were appointed as missionaries to the Dominican Republic as Religious Literature specialists. Becoming fluent in Spanish, they enjoyed being used for the Lord Jesus Christ to proclaim the Good News that Salvation is available to anyone who will ask, and using bible-based literature to help churches, organizations, and individuals find their personal relationship with Christ. Returning home to the states in 1988, they settled in Longview, Texas, and later retired to Lake Tyler, Texas. Sally was preceded in death by her parents, Paul and Janice York, and her
grandparents. Left to cherish her memory are her husband of 53 years, Tuck Kemper, two sons, Chris and Ben Kemper, and his wife Kristi, three grandchildren, Mason and Riley Morris, and Reid Kemper, all of Longview, TX., and Katia Goncalves, of Campinas, Brazil. She is also survived by and will be missed by her 4 siblings, Paul York, and his wife Jeri, of Charleston SC, Susan Crenshaw of Marshall, Jan Waugh and her husband Bill of Lumberton, TX, and Tom York and his wife Lori of Colorado Springs, CO. Dozens of sisters-in-law, brothers-in-law, nieces, and nephews all grieve the loss of her presence but rejoice in the knowledge that they will all see her again. Sally’s group of friends and colleagues, including her many friends from her working life, the members of her Sunday School classes, she attended and taught for many years. Sally also served as Director, of Vacation Bible School at Arp Emmanuel Baptist Church for many years. The influence of her creativeness and passion for Jesus touched literally hundreds of young lives and volunteers, without whom, she would not have been able to organize and direct that wonderful activity. Truly, the stars in her crown, which have now been laid at the feet of Jesus, are the souls she influenced for Jesus, and the many she led to faith in Him. A Celebration of Life service was held on Saturday, January 29, at Arp Emmanuel Baptist Church, Arp, Texasm with the Rev. Dr. Ron Klingsick officiating. Visitation was at the church immediately preceding the celebration. The Kemper family would like to express their sincere appreciation to the doctors who worked so hard the past 2-1/2 years to help her fight the ravages of ALS in her body, Dr. George Plotkin, Dr. David Jones, Dr. Daragah Heitzman. To the staff at UT Health East Texas, we simply say, “Thank You” for the compassionate care they gave Sally during the last days and minutes of her earthly life. Finally, to Tiffany Lydia, and Deborah Huffman, her caregivers. Please know that Sally loved you, and the way you loved and cared for her extended her life. In lieu of flowers, the family respectfully requests that you consider a monetary gift to either the Longview Animal Care and Adoption Center, Longview, Texas ( http:// www.longviewpaws.org ), or a gift to the building program at Arp Emmanuel Baptist Church, Arp, Texas.
“Blessed are those who mourn, for they shall be comforted.”
—
MATTHEW 5:4
Martha Jane Pool Different
HUTTO — Graveside services for Martha Pool Different, 81, previously of Chandler, took place on Sunday, January 30, at Strong Cemetery in Henderson with Pastor Richard Prather officiating. Interment will be under the direction of Chandler Memorial Funeral Home. Mrs. Different passed away on January 18, in DIFFERENT Austin. Martha Jane (Pierce) Pool Different was born July 10, 1940, in Longview, the daughter of Herbert Eugene Pierce and Jewel Lorraine (Woodall) Pierce. She graduated from Longview High School and attended Kilgore Junior College where she performed with the Ranger Band on saxophone- twice performing for the Macy’s Thanksgiving Day Parade in New York City. Martha married Jerry Monroe Pool and they lived in LaMarque, Texas for 36 years where they raised their three children- Melissa, Mike, and Pamala. During this time, she enjoyed working as a realtor, interior decorator, and with the administration at the College of the Mainland. After Jerry passed away, she moved to Lake Palestine with her second husband, Roy Weldon Different, where they spent 18 years. She worked at the Lake Palestine United Methodist Church part-time while enjoying her retirement. In recent years, she lived in Hutto to be near two of her children and grandchildren. Martha spent much of her time gardening, traveling, and enjoying large family gatherings. Martha was loved by many, but no more than her family. She would be the first to suggest dominos or card games around the table with as many as possible gathered around. Martha will be remembered as extremely caring and thoughtful- a woman who went above and beyond to help others. Her remarkable legacy as a wife, mother, grandmother, and sister will live on forever in those that love her. She was preceded in death by her parents; husbands, Jerry Pool, Roy Different, and brothers, Herbert Pierce, Jr. and George Pierce. Survivors include children, Melissa Currid of Katy, Mike Pool and wife Amy of Leander, Pamala Compean and husband Jeff of Round Rock; step-daughters, Cindy Different of Texas City, Tracy Proctor of Texas City; sisters, Kathleen Sprague of Poway, California, Sandra Pierce of Gilmer; grandchildren, Misty White and husband Brad of Katy, Clayton Kimbrough and wife Christina of Chesapeake, Virginia, Adam Compean of Pflugerville, Ashley Athanas and husband Thomas of Austin, Alexis Kale and husband Zach Randolph of Austin, Macy Pool of Leander, Elijah Pool of Leander, Justin Currid of Houston, Haley Proctor of Texas City, Dylon Proctor of Texas City; six great-grandchildren and one great-great-grandchild. Visitation was held Saturday, January 29, at Chandler Memorial Funeral Home.
THE LONGVIEW VOICE — February 2022
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PUBLIC NOTICES LISD Board meeting set for February 14 Trustees usually meet in the boardroom of the LISD Education Support Center, but often set special-called meetings at
various locations around the district. The next regular meeting is tentatively scheduled for 6 p.m. on Monday, February 14.
For more information about the Longview ISD Board of Trustees go to LISD.org.
LISD accepting requests for proposals for Contracted Educational Services Longview Independent School District (LISD) is soliciting additional, subsequent sealed competitive proposals for CONTRACTED EDUCATIONAL SERVICES. Proposals will be received at the following address on an ongoing basis until 4:00 p.m. on Thursday, July 28, 2022, for consideration.
Submission should include an original signed copy with all necessary backup requested. Submission Location Longview Independent School District ATTN: Loretta Thompson Martin, Director of Grants & Federal Programs
1301 East Young Street Longview, Texas 75602 Telephone, electronic or fax proposals are not considered legal documents; therefore, original signed documentation must be submitted for consideration.
LISD accepting requests for proposals for Camera Solution System The purpose of this Request for Proposal (RFP) is to solicit proposals for the purchase, configuration, and installation of a camera solution system for the parking lot at Longview High School and associated cabling along with warranty and support of the camera system for the Longview Independent School District. The District intends to utilize this security
camera system in its high school parking lot. In order to be considered, bidders must submit three (3) hardcopies of the proposal and one electronic copy. Proposals shall be signed and submitted sealed with the envelope plainly marked with the title SECURITY CAMERA RFP. Proposals shall be delivered to:
Dr. Wayne Guidry, Assistant Superintendent of Finance 1301 East Young Street, Longview, Texas 75606 Proposals must be received by 4:00 p.m. on Jan. 28, 2022. Proposals submitted after that date will be rejected.
LISD seeking architectural firm for various projects The Longview Independent School District is seeking to retain an architectural firm with the qualifications and staff resources necessary to perform planning, designing, bidding and construction oversight phases of various projects deemed to be in the best interest of the District. In addition the District is looking for a firm with the capability to provide value added services including, but not limited to structural engineering, security consultation, technology consultation, interior design, etc. Therefore, it is the intent
GRADS |Continued from page 14 tion to the unmotivated. At LEGHS, everybody is somebody. Our goal is for each of the students to be productive law-abiding citizens in society.” Every student has an individual graduation plan. Upon completion of graduation requirements, all students must take the TSI test for college admission. Students receive help filling out FAFSA (financial aid) and college applications. We work with the Texas Workforce Commission to place students in their chosen career path.
of the Board to obtain information in the request for qualifications that addresses these options. Firms are requested to submit their qualifications outlining their background and experience in campus planning and building design. Selected firms may be invited to participate in interviews. Once the most qualified firm is determined, the District will attempt to negotiate a fee. If a fee cannot be agreed upon, negotiations will begin with the next most qualified firm. Once an
agreement is reached, the selected firm’s name will be submitted for the final approval by the Longview ISD Board of Trustees. Submit one original and four (4) copies of the RFQ to the following: Longview ISD Administration Office 1301 E Young Street Longview Tx 75602 Please mark on the outside of the envelope “RFQ #20-01.”
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SPOTTED ON SOCI AL
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BOARD |Continued from page 5 multipurpose center to accommodate academics, fine arts, and CTE programs, as well as athletics. “Not only could the center accommodate the needed programs for Longview High School, but it can also be a common gathering place for the community during certain functions,” said Dr. Hooper, adding that a potential site for such a facility could be the approximately 180-yard practice field area near the stadium. Dr. Hooper said this facility could “provide an all-weather marching field which can be shared with other sports including soccer, baseball, football, in this same facility.” “Additionally, CTE courses such as culinary arts can be relocated to this center,” said Dr. Hooper. “The current Culinary Arts area is cramped and needs to be enlarged, but no space is available. This same new Culinary Arts area at the Satterwhite Center can accommodate community gatherings and banquets as well as school programs. Other CTE course offerings can be in this same facility.” Other recommendations from Dr. Hooper and his team include an expansion of the LHS cafeteria, a five-acre indoor/ outdoor golf practice facility for student-athletes on the property across from the current athletic practice field, new dressing rooms at the baseball and soccer fields, and renovations to the Lobo Aquatics Center such as non-slip walking surfaces and an overall remodeling of the facility. The safety, security, and health of the LISD was another important point brought forward, and Dr. Hooper suggested new camera systems, card readers, and lighting improvements for the LHS parking lot. Similar upgrades were recommended for inside the campus, with improved directional signage for the high school hallways, extensive updates to the library, and renovations to the Little Theatre and Mickey Melton Center.
ACADEMIC GAINS
Longview Independent School District saw gains across multiple categories in its latest Texas Academic Performance Report (TAPR). Mrs. Latitia Wilson, LISD Director of Research, Planning, and Accountability, said preliminary accountWILSON
ability ratings were discussed in late summer 2021, but the TAPR report represents the finalized version of these findings. “The annual TAPR report includes several pieces of information from the 2020-2021 school year, including academic performance, college, career and military readiness information and school and district profiles,” Wilson said. “The TAPR report gives an overview based on several criteria including student performance on the annual STAAR test.” LISD showed considerable progress in a host of measures, according to the Texas Education Agency’s report. Wilson also cited a number of programs currently underway at various LISD campuses as ways the district has improved its standing in prevention and intervention curricula. “These include, but are not limited to Forever Friends, Young Gentlemen, Thrive360, Communities in Schools, Girl Power, Circle Up, CrimeStoppers, Partners in Prevention, Eagle Leadership, Capturing Kids’ Hearts, Girls with Pearls, and of course the Just Keep Livin’ program at Longview High created in partnership with alumnus Matthew McConaughey.” But despite the numerous gains and achievements, Wilson maintained “there is always room for improvement.” “Our teachers and campus leaders continue to set very high goals for themselves, their campuses, and their students, and they continue to work hard to meet those goals,” she said. “The LISD department of Curriculum and Instruction will also continue to provide every support and assistance we can in order to help our students be the best they can be.” Additional information regarding the annual TAPR report for Longview ISD can be found on the district’s website, and Mrs. Latitia Wilson’s presenta-
tion can be found at LISD.org.
ESSER FUNDS PLAN
Dr. Wayne Guidry, Assistant Superintendent for Finance, told trustees that the Return to In-Person Instruction and Continuity of Services (RIPICS) plan GUIDRY was revised in December 2021 and the Use of Funds Plan remains as it was previously presented. It should be noted that the district’s total ESSER III total allocation was $19,666,123. The purpose of the American Rescue Plan: Elementary and Secondary School Emergency Relief (ARP ESSER III) funding is for school districts to address the impact that COVID-19 has had, and continues to have, on elementary and secondary schools. Dr. Guidry explained to the board that the American Rescue Plan (ARP) statute requires that local education agencies develop and make publicly available their plans for the use of funds after having engaged in meaningful consultation with stakeholders. This plan must be reviewed and revised every six months. “The district conducted a needs assessment at the campus, in-district charter partners, and district level with input from students, parents, staff, and the community through direct communication, surveys, board meetings, and prior needs assessments to determine how its portion of ESSER III funds should be used,” he said. “Per that assessment, Longview ISD has written a plan and it is posted to our website. Should revisions to the plan become necessary, the plan will be updated and a revised version posted as well.”
IN OTHER BUSINESS
During the course of the meeting, the LISD Board of Trustees also: • RECEIVED updates from Dr. Craig Coleman, LISD Chief Innovation Officer, on the district’s Office of Innovation and charter partners. Trustees were also presented the Partner Monitoring Document and monthly evaluation from Mr. John Wink, Coordinator of Policy and New Schools; • RECEIVED an update on COVID-19 cases, the district Safety Report, and Facilities Update from Mr. Dennis Williams, Assistant Superintendent of Administrative & Pupil Services; • RECEIVED the Results Driven Accountability (RDA) Overview from Mrs. Latitia Wilson, LISD Director of Research, Planning, and Accountability; • APPROVED Minutes and Time Use Tracker for the Dec. 13, 2021 Regular Meeting and Public Hearing; • RECEIVED the updated Financial Reports for Nov. and Dec. 2021; • APPROVED the 202122 1st Quarter Investment Report;
FOR MORE INFO
Trustees usually meet in the boardroom of the LISD Education Support Center (1301 E. Young Street), but often set special-called meetings at various locations around the district. The next regular meeting is tentatively scheduled for 6 p.m. Feb. 14, 2022. For more information about the Longview ISD Board of Trustees please go to LISD. org/board.
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THE LONGVIEW VOICE — February 2022
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