Volume VII, Issue 3 (March 1, 2022)

“Knowledge is power.” ― Sir Francis Bacon

Vol. VII March 2022

Sharing the good news about Longview Independent School District

SIMPLY THE BEST LHS named top high school in area two years in a row

L

ongview High School ranks as one of the best high schools in the East Texas region again, according to a national ranking.

The U.S. News & World Report’s 2021 Best High Schools list BREWER ranks LHS as the top campus in the Longview, Marshall, and Tyler metropolitan areas, and among the top five campuses in the entire East Texas region.

LHS Principal Mr. James Brewer said while he was pleased to see his campus recognized once again for its high graduation rate, college readiness, and proficiency score, but stated “there is always room for improvement.”

“We hold ourselves to the highest standards, so while it’s nice to see (these rankings) it’s not something that we’re going to put much stock in,” he said. “Longview High School remains committed to providing the best possible education for all the young people in our care. Whether it’s to prepare them for the job force or academia, there are always ways we can improve. Our community deserves nothing less.”

A global authority in education

CAMPUS

STATE RANK

LONGVIEW

329

WHITE OAK

368

GILMER

395

SPRING HILL

433

PINE TREE

481

MARSHALL

1,050

KILGORE

1,241

Best |Continued to page 6

With a lot to talk about right now, Matthew Pr osser goes over some highlights.

See Opinion on Page 2

Beth Bassett’s passing leaves the Lobo community short of one of our best.

See Beth on Page 4

Spring sports are kicking off and Lobo athletes are off to a g r eat star t.

See Sports on Page 10

Check out the latest social media posts that you may have missed.

See Social on Page 18

Page 2

THE LONGVIEW VOICE — March 2022

OPINION

Random thoughts on the passing scene...

By Matthew Prosser

Scholarship. (see article on Page 8) For this month’s Opinion Not only does concolumn, I had several ideas for tributing content to the what to write about. I didn’t district newspaper put really have time to sit down and you in the running for a develop any one of them into a scholarship, but it looks COMMUNITY complete essay, so I think I’ll just great on a college reRELATIONS talk my way through the differsume. Don’t believe me?

Those of you who ent topic threads...

Just ask some of the follow our social media PROSSER IN MEMORIAM, past winners. accounts closely might For more information MRS. BASSETT have noticed a relative lull in or an application, please conA beloved longtime educator our regular postings during tact the Community Relations and administrator at Longview the week of Feb. 21-25, that is department at ask@LISD.org Independent School District, because the LISD Community or call 903-381-2200.

Mrs. Beth Bassett passed into Relations department attended glory on Thursday, Jan. 27 at SPRING SPORTS the Texas School Public Rethe age of 86. (see Obituary I don’t know if y’all have lations Association (TSPRA) on Page 7) state conference. (see story on noticed, but our spring sports In the relatively few years I are absolutely killing it right Page 7) worked with Mrs. Bassett, she now. We’ve got teams in multiIn addition to the six seswas ever an ardent advocate sions our team members led, we ple varsity sports who are (as of for the students and teachers of brought home 13 awards for our this writing) undefeated. Lobo LISD. She was also a wonderful work in communicating and insoccer (boys/girls): undefeated. colleague, whose keen insight Varsity baseball: undefeated. forming the students, staff, and and wit did not diminish with Varsity softball isn’t undefeatstakeholders of Longview ISD. age.

But more than any accolades, ed, but they’ve got a winning I last spoke with Mrs. Basrecord. Our swim team adit was wonderful to spend time sett not long before the holiday with other public school comvanced to state last month. Our break, as she made her way golf and tennis teams are heatmunication professionals. It’s through the main hallway of ing up, as is Track & Field. always interesting to commisthe administration building. We erate about the various chalThere’s a lot of excitement talked about an LISD teacher lenges and situations that arise building across the entire athwho she’d heard was planacross different school districts. letic department, so come out, ning to retire, a teacher that LOBO UP and support our VOICE had actually been a student of teams!

SCHOLARSHIP hers years back. I said that I TALK TO US! Hey LHS students, are you thought it was amazing that Last week, I received a planning to attend college but former students were retiring, phone call from a concerned not sure how you’re going to to which she responded with a parent who had several urgent pay for it all? Would a $1,000 chuckle, “I’ve tried to retire a questions about a Facebook few times, but they keep asking scholarship help you out? Write post made by someone in the for us! We’re taking applicame to come back.” community. Apparently, the tions for The Longview Voice Rest in peace, Mrs. Bassett, content of the post listed a and may you rest having known that you were a leading light for generations of students, teachers, and people in our community.

number of claims that were not only verifiably false, but potentially libelous. Though our conversation took the better part of the morning, I was glad to walk through the various topics point by point and help the parent understand.

I didn’t have all the answers (I never do), but I was able to provide some clarity and context to a number of issues.

In addition, this parent now knows they can reach out to me, or someone on my team, and we’ll be glad to help them find their answers.

This is what we’re all about.

Hey, I get it, social media can be fun. There’s a certain dopamine rush when a Facebook rant goes “Longview viral.”

But we are here for you.

Helping our community find answers to questions or any other information is literally the purpose of our department.

So talk to us. Drop a line.

Give us a call, or just come by the admin building. We’d love to sit down with you and sort things out.

Longview Independent School District belongs to all of us, and we can accomplish amazing things when we work together.

— An award-winning journalist and photographer, Matthew Prosser is Communications Director for Longview Independent School District.

Teachers need more money for the classroom

By Thomas Courtney Education Week Perhaps back in December, you saw several teachers in South Dakota scrape up classroom-supply money on a hockey stadium’s ice rink. Stories of teachers struggling to find money for their classrooms are becoming more and more commonplace. Take a district that sends its dollars to charter schools, add a recession, some inflation, and we’re using the front, back, and margins of all our lined sheets of paper, my friends.

The end result for me, a 5th grade teacher in San Diego, is a personal yearly budget of $350 from my district that

must include my printAs much as kids er ink, copier paper, need more support for pencils, student notea great many things books, and lined or related to pandemic reconstruction paper for lief, I’d like to suggest the entire school year— that districts use some and, heaven forbid, I of the relief funds on should want to write classroom supplies. something down on a What if teachers chart or use a colorfully were given a classCOURTNEY room-supply budget of bright marker. Soccer balls? You gotta be $3,000? It far exceeds kidding! the few hundred dollars we According to the fundraising currently get, but it would still platform AdoptAClassroom. be well under what’s typicalorg, teachers in 2020-21 spent ly budgeted by the district or $750 of their own money on state. What would happen? their classrooms, the highThe first thing I would do est amount ever. Meanwhile, is allot about $600 to buy school districts around the the books my students want. nation are determining how to Can’t find a book you want in spend COVID-relief funds. the class? I’ll buy it for you.

Teachers know how costly it is to keep up with the latest trend-setting reads. Providing students with motivating, engaging, and high-quality literature should always be the basis of any elementary school classroom.

With another $600, I’d continue to incentivize students and reward them by hosting engaging events that bring parents, community members, kids, and staff together once it’s safe to do so.

The reality is that making inroads into the community I serve is only possible with a reasonable amount of money.

— Thomas Courtney was selected as one of the San Diego Unified school district’s 2021 teachers of the year.

THE LONGVIEW VOICE — March 2022

Page 3

C I N ASEYOU MIS SED I T CIS in need of donations

Communities In Schools (CIS) is the nation’s leading organization dedicated to empowering students to stay in school and achieve in life. CIS is a local, non-profit organization which is part of a nation-wide “stay-in-school” network.

On campus, CIS works closely with families, teachers, principals, and other school staff to help students be successful in school. Our goal is to help children learn, stay in school, and make positive life choices.

According to the Longview ISD district, more than 50% of students are economically disadvantaged. CIS is needing the following items to help meet the students’ basic needs: uniform items—high school age and snack items for students to eat throughout the day. You can drop off any of these items to the Longview High School. Please reach out to the LHS CIS Coordinator, Mrs. Fernandez at (903)663-7155 or through email at cislhs@lisd. org if you have any further questions

Free demo tutoring session with Mr. Math

Did you know that you can schedule a FREE DEMO tutoring session with Mr. Math? Algebra, Geometry, Mathematics. Online or In Person: Contact: 903-261-9560 / www.gomrmath. com

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!

New Teacher Encore Peformance

‘The New Teacher’ is a fresh comedic play with new and original music.

The encore performance will be Saturday, March 12 at 7 p.m. at Bramlette STEAM Academy. Written by Dedrick Weathersby, a power house cast is assembled to bring each character alive, while shining light on the meaning of “Organically Good Teachers”. Teachers don’t receive enough credit for their impact on students and families. Hence, the creation of this show, to bring a fun fictional story to the stage. Originally a children’s book, now adapted for the stage. This show is family friendly and a celebration of togetherness.

Page 4

THE LONGVIEW VOICE — March 2022

Bassett leaves behind a legacy of education A dedicated Lobo left the world too soon on Thursday, January 27.

Beth Bassett served our students and community for over five deBASSETT cades. From an English teacher for Longview ISD to principal to retiring in 2021 after being the Director of Curriculum and Instruction for LISD, Mrs. Bassett helped shape so many lives in Longview, and we will be forever thankful to her for her work.

Longtime colleague Dr. Andrea Mayo Fields praised Mrs. Bassett for not only being a champion in the classroom but in the administration building.

“Beth Bassett had such a

keen insight into the needs of the student as well as the teacher, and she never lost sight of what was truly important,” she said. “Throughout her career at Longview ISD, she

was a tireless champion for the people in her care.”

A Kilgore native, Mrs. Bassett graduated from Stephen F. Austin State University. After graduating, she began her ed-

ucation career at Fonville Middle School in Houston. In 1961 though, she returned to her East Texas roots to teach at White Oak. She would become a Lobo in 1967 and would serve out the rest of her 60+ years of serving children and young educators.

LISD Superintendent of Schools Dr. James Wilcox echoed the sentiment, adding that Mrs. Bassett never lost her passion for and commitment to service.

“There was no task too small or too great for her, she took on every challenge with confidence and good humor,” he said.

“Though we will try to find someone else to fill her role, we will never be able to replace her experience and expertise in public education.”

Bassett|Continued to page 16

Issues of LHS student paper to be preserved online Over 10 issues of The Lobo, which was an LHS newspaper, will be scanned and uploaded to the LISD website within the coming months and will be available to the public at no charge. Once JONES the issues are online, the link will be shared through The Longview Voice and LISD’s social media pages.

The first issue of The Lobo was published on Nov. 24, 1937.

This preservation of history is made possible by Lobo alum Paul Jones. A 1966 Longview graduate, obtained original prints of various issues of The

Lobo which was a LHS newspaper that was first published on Nov. 24, 1937. Mr. Jones donated the newspapers to LISD. The Community Relations Department plans to scan every page and eventually have them posted on the LISD website, LISD.org.

An avid history fan, Mr. Jones loves studying the history of Longview, so much so, that he started a Facebook group to share the photos that he comes across during his research. “Pictures of Longview PAST and PRESENT” costs Mr. Jones two to four hours a day in research and he does it happily.

“I just want to give back.

Longview has been good to me, so I want to give back,” Mr. Jones said. “And, I enjoy it.”

The group originally started with 45 members but has now exploded to over 5,100. This is a sign that many in Longview love to learn the history of the

city. Thanks to Mr. Jones, people will soon be able to look at the history of LISD through the lens of students in the late 1930’s.

Thrive Longview, Longview Queens welcome Chris Frazier On Tuesday, Feb. 15, Thrive Longview and Longview Queens United welcomed Mr. Chris Frazier to Thriving Kings! We know that your contribution will be impactful on a lifelong scale for our young men!

THE LONGVIEW VOICE — March 2022

Page 5

Board calls $229 million bond election Longview ISD is calling for a $229 million bond election this spring to address various facility needs and campus improvements.

The LISD Board of Trustees approved the election order for four bond propositions during their Feb. 14 regular meeting.

If approved by voters on May 7, the propositions will fund significant renovations to the Longview High School campus, a new Career & Technical Education facility, an Extracurricular Events Center, a new Early Childhood campus, and various other much-needed repairs and facility updates.

For more details on the 2022 LISD bond issue please check the district website: LISD.org/ bond2022 While most bond issues typically include a tax hike, Dr. Wayne Guidry, Assistant Superintendent for Finance, explained that this would not be the case for this kind of bond, and “the current rate would remain the same for GUIDRY LISD taxpayers.”

“If approved by voters, Longview ISD would be utilizing a General Obligation Bond,” he said. “This is a debt of the school district that is payable from taxes against property within the school district.”

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. Guidry.

“These improvements and projects could be fully funded with zero increase to the current tax rate.”

Last August, the board approved a maintenance and operations tax rate of $.94170 and interest and sinking tax rate of $.4730 cents for a total tax rate of $1.41470 per $100 valuation, a decrease from the previous year. Longview ISD has actually reduced the tax rate for the last three years.

Superintendent Dr. James Wilcox said LISD is unique in that the majority WILCOX of the district

was built during a three-year period.

In 2008, voters approved a nearly $267 million bond package that paid to build new campuses at Bramlette, Hudson PEP, J.L. Everhart, Ned E. Williams, and Ware elementary schools, as well as Forest Park and Foster middle schools. The bonds also paid for renovations and additions to Johnston-McQueen and South Ward (now Bailey) elementary schools, Judson Middle School, and Longview High School.

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 HOOPER a master plan for potential improvements, repairs, and upgrades needed at Longview ISD.

“Without attention to facilities, within the next ten years all of our facilities will require extensive repair at the same time,” said Dr. Wilcox.

“If approved by the voters of Longview ISD, this bond provides the means to make significant facility updates and upgrades for the students, staff, and community.”

Dr. Wilcox said the administration will be forming an LISD Bond Committee that includes members of the community, as well as district staff and trustees. This committee will help provide information to the community, as well as steer the direction of the project if approved by voters.

The last day to register to vote is Thursday, April 7. Early voting lasts from April 25 to May 3. Election Day is May 7.

For any questions about the election please contact Gregg County Elections Office at 903236-8458.

DISTRICT CALENDAR

The board also approved the 2022-23 District Calendar.

Classes will begin Aug. 15, 2022, and end May 26, 2023.

Commencement ceremonies are tentatively set for May 19, 2023.

Dr. James Hockenberry, Assistant Superintendent of District Services said that, although this calendar is now in place, “obviously anything could change between now HOCKENBERRY Board|Continued to page 19

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)

Page 6 BEST |Continued from page 1 rankings, U.S. News & World Report ranks more than 17,800 public high schools throughout the country, measuring how well schools serve students from various social and economic backgrounds.

LISD Superintendent Dr. James Wilcox said the demographic data is a vital component to these rankings.

“It’s no great accomplishment for a highly-selective school to attain high honors, but when you help every student succeed regardless of their socio-economic challenges, that’s saying something,” he said. “It just goes to show the quality of the educators we have in Longview ISD, and what a WILCOX tremendous community of families and local stakeholders that makes this possible.”

For the 2021 rankings, the magazine used data from the 2018-19 school year to assess nearly 24,000 public high schools. Only 17,857 of them were ranked because some didn’t have enough 12th-graders (at least 15), and the rankings of only the top 75% (13,393) are released.

The methodology focuses on six factors: college readiness, reading and math proficiency, reading and math performance, underserved student performance, college curriculum breadth, and graduation rates.

College readiness specifically measures participation and performance on Advanced Placement and International Baccalaureate exams.

Alongside the national rankings, U.S. News published rankings at the state, metro area, and school district levels. Only metro areas and school districts with three or more high schools were included in these subrankings.

The Best High Schools rankings are available exclusively on USNews.com and include data on a variety of factors, such as enrollment, student diversity, participation in free and reduced-price lunch programs, graduation rates, and the results of state assessments.

U.S. News worked with RTI International, a global research firm, to implement the comprehensive ranking methodology.

THE LONGVIEW VOICE — March 2022 CAMPUS

STATE RANK

COLLEGE READINESS

ENROLLMENT

GRAD RANK

LONGVIEW

329

26.5

2,145

99%

TYLER LEGACY

435

2.5

2,240

96%

PINE TREE

455

22.2

1,207

99%

TEXAS HIGH

760

21.7

1,773

94%

JACKSONVILLE

779

14.7

1,265

88%

MARSHALL

1,050

14.7

1,413

85%

TYLER HIGH

1,143

5.7

2,097

98%

NACOGDOCHES

1,178

9.8

1,683

95%

How U.S. News ranks the best high schools

College Readiness 30%: The proportions of 12th graders who took and earned a qualifying score on at least one AP or IB exam. Earning a qualifying score is worth three times more than just taking.; Math and Reading Proficiency 20%: Aggregated scores on state assessments that students may be required to pass for graduation.; Math and Reading Performance 20%: How aggregated scores on state assessments compare with U.S. News’ expectations given the proportions of students who are Black, Hispanic and from low-income households.; Underserved Student Performance 10%: Scores on state assessments aggregated just among students who are Black, Hispanic and from low-income households. These scores are compared with what is typical in the state for non-undeserved students, with parity or higher being the goal.; College Curriculum Breadth 10%: The proportions of 12th graders who took and earned a qualifying score on AP and IB exams in multiple areas. More exams are valued more than fewer exams up to a maximum of four. Earning a qualifying score on an exam is worth three times more than taking.; Graduation Rate 10%: The proportion of entering ninth graders who graduated four academic years later.

Ned students stimulate their minds in class As an Engineering STEAM academy Ned gives students the time and equipment to stimulate their minds to ideas

THE LONGVIEW VOICE — March 2022

Page 7

ETMPA Black History Projects

Community Relations earns statewide honors The Longview Independent School District’s Community Relations Department has been recognized with 13 Gold, Silver, and Bronze Star Awards presented by the Texas School Public Relations Association (TSPRA).

Recognizing work produced during the 2020-21 school year, this year’s Star Awards were announced at TSPRA’s 60th annual conference Feb. 23rd in Round Rock.

Longview ISD Community Relations earned eight Gold Star Awards, four Silver Star Awards, and one Bronze Award. The department earned top honors in the Live Video Event, Live Video Event (Spanish), Original Art, Photography, Published News, Video Promotion, and Writing categories.

In addition to these honors, Community Relations staffers presented six different professional sessions during the conference, the most of any single school district.

“Community Relations team members Mr. Chris Frazier, Mr. Dustin Tay-

•

•

• lor, Mrs. Elizabeth Ross, Mr. Francisco Rojas, Mrs. Kacy Swaim, and myself led topics as varied as connecting with Spanish-speaking families and creating engaging public events, to developing a departmental strategic plan and building your social media reach,” said Mr. Matthew Prosser, LISD Communications Director. “As a result, I feel like Longview ISD continues to lead the way in public school communication across the region and state.”

• Earning a Gold Award

for Live Video Event was Mrs. Elizabeth Ross for the district’s “Draft Day” event in partnership with LISD Human Resources.

• Earning a Gold Award for Live Video Event (language other than English) was Mr. Francisco Rojas for his coverage of Lobo Soccer games.

• Earning a Gold Award for Original Art was Mrs. Ross for her design of Lobo Athletics graphics and another honor

•

•

for the “Your Vote, Your Voice” graphic.

Earning a Gold Award for Published News Article or Feature was Mr. Matthew Prosser for his editorial writing in The Longview Voice.

Earning a Gold Award for Video Promotion was the Community Relations department for their Pathway To Success production.

Earning a Gold Award for Writing was Mr. Dustin Taylor for his article “Developing A Future” and another honor for his article “Showing Commitment.”

Earning a Silver Award for Photography was Mr. Chris Frazier for a photo of Hudson PEP’s “Operation Star” program, and another honor for Mrs. Ross for her photo of the LHS Pop Choir Performance.

Earning a Silver Award for Printed Newsletter

CR|Continued to page 14

Page 8

THE LONGVIEW VOICE — March 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, Gaylon 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.

THE LONGVIEW VOICE — March 2022

Page 9

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

422 FM 2751

FOSTER

111 Tupelo Dr.

HUDSON PEP

31 20

NED E. WILLIAMS ELEMENTARY 5230 Estes Pkwy.

J.L. EVERHART ELEMENTARY

149

2919 Tryon Rd. NED E. WILLIAMS

HUDSON PEP ELEMENTARY 1311 Lilly St.

SOUTH WARD ELEMENTARY

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.

Page 10

THE LONGVIEW VOICE — March 2022

SPORTS

SPRING SPORTS

Lobo athletes gear up for strong seasons

THE LONGVIEW VOICE — March 2022

Page 11

Page 12

THE LONGVIEW VOICE — March 2022

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THE LONGVIEW VOICE — March 2022

CHOOSE

R LONGVIEW

SCHOOL

APPLY NOW

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Page 13

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THE LONGVIEW VOICE — March 2022

Dedrick Weathersby gives a talk at Forest Park Longview native, Dedrick Weathersby returned once more to Longview ISD to talk to students in the district.

For his visit this time, the author talked to students at Forest Park about Black History Month.

We know that our students enjoyed hearing him speak, and we are so grateful to him for taking time to speak to the youth.

CR |Continued from page 7 was Mr. Prosser and Mr. Taylor for their work on The Longview Voice district newspaper.

• Earning a Silver Award for Published News Article or Feature was Longview mayor Dr. Andy Mack for his Opinion column “Welcome To Strongview.”

• Earning a Bronze Award for Digital Magazine was Mr. Taylor for the online version of The Longview Voice district newspaper.

Community Relations presentations competed with all districts across the state of Texas with 15,000 or fewer students. That means we are competing with many schools that are almost twice as big as Longview ISD. The TSPRA Star Awards provide recognition for the outstanding education communications and projects of submitting members each year.

Submissions are judged by on set criteria and there are nearly 50 categories of competition covering various media such as newsletters, programs, posters, reports, writing, image/identity packages, photography, graphics, video, electronic presentations, campaigns, events, and websites.

Judges award Gold, Silver, or Bronze winners and schools are divided into three groups.

There are separate competitions for districts with 15,000 students or less, 15,000-40,000 students and 40,000 or more students. The winners were selected from a record-setting

1,662 entries this year.

Dr. James Wilcox, LISD Superintendent of Schools, said he was pleased to hear of the honors, “but not surprised.”

“Our district continues WILCOX to be the best school district east of Interstate 45, and it’s all because of our people: our students, our staff, our parents, and our many community partners,” he said. “LISD Community Relations has been a vital part of our mission as a district.”

“Winning these honors shows the high quality of professionals we have at Longview ISD, the commitment and excellence they show on a daily basis shines forth in everything they do,” Dr. Wilcox added. “Not only do we—here in Longview—recognize it, but communications professionals from across the state.”

“Our team’s mission is to serve with professionalism, a positive attitude, courtesy, and responsiveness, in facilitating open lines of communication and greater partnerships throughout the greater Longview area for our students, staff, and entire Lobo community,” said Mr. Prosser.

“These honors indicate that not only is our work appreciated within our community but by our peers as well.

“Telling Longview ISD’s story in a way that engages and connects our students, employees, families, and community has been and always will be at the heart of what we do,” Mr. Prosser added. “Having these efforts recognized as distinguished amongst our peers statewide is truly an honor for our team and the entire district.”

LISD Community Relations staff members will be recognized during the district’s regular board meeting on March 21.

For more information about Community Relations please visit the website: LISD.org/ Communications or call 903381-2200.

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THE LONGVIEW VOICE — March 2022

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World of Wonders delights Hudson PEP Thank you to the Longview World of Wonders for affording our Hudson PEP students such an amazing day!

Ware shows they stand with kindness “Where there is love and inspiration, I don’t think you can go wrong.” — Ella Fitzgerald Thursday, Feb. 17, was National Random Acts of Kindness Day and Ware shared off their love for kindness!

Ware students and staffed asked, “Will you be the “I” in KIND?”

The campus promotes social and emotional learning! They know that it is imperative to treat one another with dignity and respect. As a learning community, they value everyone’s differences and diversity; knowing we can learn best by listening, communicating and being kind.

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THE LONGVIEW VOICE — March 2022

OBITUARIES Longview ISD offers our most sincere condolences to our extended Lobo family Beth Crutcher Bassett It is with extreme sadness that we announce the passing of Beth Crutcher Bassett on Thursday, January 27 at the age of 86. She was born on December 5, 1935, in Kilgore, Texas, the middle child of Joe and Inabeth Crutcher.

She grew up in Kilgore where she spent her formative years BASSETT through early college, graduating from Kilgore Junior College where she served proudly as a KJC cheerleader. She then moved to Nacogdoches to complete her studies in education at Stephen F. Austin State University. She would later return to SFAU to complete her master’s degree in education.

Beth spent over 60 years serving children and young adults as an educator. She began her career in 1958 teaching at Fonville Middle School in Houston then in 1961 moved to teach in White Oak, after her time at White Oak in 1967 she spent the rest of her career holding positions at the Longview Independent School District (LISD) until her retirement in 2021. She held many positions in the district, among them were teaching English

Alyce Thomas Monsour Alyce Thomas Monsour was welcomed into the Kingdom of Heaven at the age of 101 on January 30, in Dallas.

Her parents, Maggie Mack Thomas and John Thomas, immigrated to Longview, Texas from Lebanon in the early 1900s. Alyce was born in MONSOUR Longview on August 3, 1920.

Her devotion to her Christian faith, family, and Lebanese heritage were evident throughout her life. After graduation from Longview High School, she married the love of her life, Fred George Monsour from Shreveport, Louisiana, and cherished their wonderful 70year marriage. They gave birth to two beautiful daughters, Gayle and Garland. Fred and Alyce joined Trinity Episcopal Church in 1953 and established Young Town Children’s Clothing Store, where they joyfully clothed the children of Longview for 30 years!

Retirement never slowed Alyce. She poured support into her beloved community of Longview and earned recognition many times. Alyce volunteered countless hours over 24 years with the Longview Symphony Orchestra Guild, where she served as the Marketing Director of their annual Christmas Corner fundraiser and was lovingly known as “The Mrs. Christmas Corner.”

Her honors include Longview Symphony Orchestra “Hall of Fame,” 1993 Longview “Women of the Year,” and the 2007 “Stars Over Longview,” women who make a difference in the community. She was a member of the Women’s Forum, Longview Museum of Fine Arts, Longview Music Club, Gregg County Historical Museum, Charter Member of Oak Forest Country Club, Oak Crest Women’s Club, and The Longview Federation of Women’s Club.

at Longview High School, Principal at Judson Middle School, Foster Middle School, and Doris McQueen Primary. She ended her career as the Director of Curriculum and Instruction for LISD. Beth was a lifelong Methodist and an active member of the Henry Foster Sunday School Class. She was an avid reader and loved to spend time with her family and friends.

She is survived by her loving husband of 61 years, Ralph Bassett, daughter Elizabeth Bassett Garner and son-in-law, Bryan Garner of Austin, TX, son Charles Bassett of Tulsa, OK, grandchildren, Remington Bassett, Sterling Bassett, and Rylan Bassett as well as nieces, nephews, and many cousins.

She was preceded in death by her father Joe Crutcher, mother, Inabeth Crutcher, and her siblings, Joe Earl Crutcher, and Charles “Buddy” Crutcher.

A memorial and celebration of her life was held at First United Methodist Church in Longview, on Friday, February 4. An online guest book may be signed at www.raderfh. com.

In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to the Henry Foster Sunday School Class at First United Methodist Church of Longview, or to the church’s charities.

Alyce’s favorite quote was by Kahlil Gibran, author of The Prophet: “There are those who give with joy and that joy is their reward.” These words reflect her life’s sincere example of devotion, purpose, and commitment to others and her community.

Alyce moved to Dallas in 2010 to be near her daughter, Garland, and the “big city” did not prove to be too big for her. She thrived at the independent senior living apartments, where she enjoyed many new friends. Luncheons, dinners, parties, and full-on celebrations were given to honor her continually by her family and friends.

She always cherished visits from her children, grandchildren, nieces, nephews, cousins, and friends from near and far.

Alyce was preceded in death by parents Maggie and John, husband Fred, sister Azie Thomas Jabour, brothers Isaac, Naseep, and Philip Thomas, and special cousin Selma Thomas Naifeh.

She is survived by daughters Gayle M. Monsour (late Andrew) of Galveston, Texas, Garland Monsour Cohlmia (Mike) of Dallas, Texas, grandchildren Kriste Monsour Garrison (Bill) of Galveston, Texas, Trey Monsour (Russell) of Dallas, Texas, Candice Cohlmia Unger (Michael) of Flower Mound, Texas, Chad Cohlmia of Los Angeles, California, and great-grandson Billy Garrison of Galveston, Texas.

Interment occured on Thursday, February 17, at 12:30 p.m. at Memory Park Cemetery (2823 E. Marshall Ave, Longview, Texas.) A Celebration of Life followed at 2 p.m. at Trinity Episcopal Church (906 Padon St, Longview, Texas.) Reverend Dr. Bill Carroll officiated.

In lieu of flowers, the family suggests contributions to: Trinity Episcopal Church (906 Padon St, Longview, TX 75601) www.trinityparish.org; St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital www. stjude.org; Longview Symphony Orchestra (P.O. Box 1825, Longview, TX 75606) www. longviewsymphony.org

Nettie Jean Harding

Ms. Nettie Jean Harding, 80, passed away on February 15, at her home in Longview.

Born on June 13, 1941, in Longview, HARDING to the late Brent Dial and Vera Little Dial, she attended Pine Tree public schools and then worked for the Longview Independent School District until her retirement in 2005.

Jean accepted the Lord as her Savior at a young age and attended Grace Creek Church.

She enjoyed crossword puzzles, Dallas Cowboys football and Texas Rangers baseball, bingo and dominos, a game she would gladly take you down in. She will be remembered for her smile, sense of humor, her sass, and sometimes forgetting to hang up on long-drawn-out voicemails.

She is preceded in death by her parents and her brother Don Dial.

She is survived by sister and brother-in-law Mary and Jack Driscoll and her nieces and nephews. Ex-husband James Harding, daughter Tammy Howard, daughter Tricia Britton, daughter and son-in-law Sharla Harding and Steven Goad, and daughter and sonin-law Kristy and Stuart Kaufman. She is also survived by 16 grandchildren. Johnny Roddy, Christian, and Krista Howard, Shelby and Clay Mooney, Chloe Jones, Denver Satterwhite, Alaura and Kamden Goad, Trenton Ausmus, Lane Clanton, Blair, Chloe, Mia, and Ledger Kaufman and great-grandson Everett Mooney.

Jean will forever be cherished and remembered by her family who was her greatest joy in life. She always was seen humming, singing, and dancing like no one was watching, and now, she is singing praises and dancing across the clouds with her parents and her Savior. Rest In Peace, Dancing Queen.

Visitation was held on Sunday, February 20, at 3 p.m. in the garden court of Welch Funeral Home. A Service was held on Monday, February 21, at 10 a.m. in the chapel of Welch Funeral Home.

THE LONGVIEW VOICE — March 2022

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PUBLIC NOTICES LISD Board meeting set for March 21 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, March 21.

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 seeking competitive 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. Submis-

sion 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 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

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.”

LISD Foundation announces annual raffle Each year the Longview ISD Foundation, Inc. holds a raffle in conjunction with its Lamplighter Awards banquet.

Tickets are one (1) for $5.00 or three (3) for $10.00. When buying a ticket, one can check the item he or she hopes to win, spreading tickets among the items or putting all tickets on one item.

The Foundation will hold three separate drawings on Thursday, April 7, at 6:30 p.m. at the 22nd annual Lamplighter Awards banquet at Pinecrest Country Club. Winners need not be present to win.

Information about the raffle and pictures of the items are also on the Foundation’s website at www.lisdfoundation. org.

To purchase raffle tickets, contact Kay Ray, Foundation director, at 903-452-7015 or gray LISD.org or purchase from any Foundation board member.

Raffle tickets are also available for purchase from Kacy Swaim in the Longview ISD Commu-

nity Relations Department at the LISD Education Support Center, 1301 E. Young Street.

To purchase raffle tickets, buyers may also text Kay Ray or email her exactly which items to check on their raffle tickets and then pay by Venmo at Gloria Kay Ray@longviewisdfoundation, which will legally and securely transfer money to the Foundation’s checking account. This has been a popular payment method.

The 2022 Lamplighter Awards Raffle items are: • Dazzling 4 mm 14K yellow gold and sterling ladies’ Vahan bracelet

(closed design) with .11ct diamonds (total weight).

Donated by Henry and Moore Jewelry Retail value: $2,200.00 • DINE ACROSS LONGVIEW GIFT CARD BASKET ~ $25 gift cards to Longview’s favorite eateries plus a four-course luncheon for ten in the Lobo Bistro prepared by the culinary arts instructors and students. Retail value: $800 • Patio Fun Package: *Custom, fully lined, rolling drink cooler handcrafted from an

original whiskey barrel, measuring 28” by 38” Donated by BlackHawk Wood Designs (follow on Facebook) and Kay and John Ray. Retail value: $400 *Custom 36” X 36” square fire pit with Rocking L cutouts with removable 12”x 32” cooking surface. Constructed and donated by LHS Welding I and dual credit students. Retail value: $400 (The picture of the cooler is a sample only.

The winner will be able to customize the lettering on the cooler.)

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THE LONGVIEW VOICE — March 2022

SPOTTED ON SOCI AL

THE LONGVIEW VOICE — March 2022

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BOARD |Continued from page 5 and August.”

“Should the need arise, the administration will consider all the various factors and possibly make amendments or modifications at a later date,” he said.

“But, for the foreseeable future, this is the district calendar we’ll be working from for the 2022-23 school year.”

Important dates for next school year include: Aug. 15 – First day for students Sept. 5 – Labor Day (observed) Nov. 21-25 – Thanksgiving Break Dec. 19-30 – Winter Break Jan. 16 – Dr. Martin Luther King Day (observed) March 13-17 – Spring Break April 7 – Good Friday (observed) May 26 – Final day of school May 29 – Memorial Day

(observed) May 30-31 – Bad weather makeup days (if needed) STAAR testing dates include the weeks of Dec. 6-9, April 4-6, and May 2-12 with STAAR makeup dates on June 20-23.

FINANCIAL DONATIONS

Board members also approved: a donation of $100,000 from AAON Coil Products to help fund Longview ISD Adult Education classes; a donation of $6,105 from the Lobo Baseball Booster Club to help purchase supplies and equipment for the Longview High School baseball program; a donation of $800 for the LISD Backpack Program from Longview Regional Medical Center in honor of Dr. James Wilcox; and a donation of $500 from GKC Enterprises to help provide new uniforms

for the LHS Majorettes.

IN OTHER BUSINESS

During the course of the meeting, the LISD Board of Trustees also: APPROVED a bid proposal of $72,383.90 from Texarkana-based KLC Video Security for new cameras and security systems at the Longview High School parking lot. This project will be paid for with federal grant funds; APPROVED the selection of Fort Worth-based Huckabee & Associates Architectural Firm for preliminary development of the proposed LISD Bond Project; APPROVED Board of Trustee Election Order for Districts 5 and 6 and a Joint Election order with the Gregg County Elections Office;

APPROVED Wage Payments during an Emergency School Closing on Feb. 4th, as a result of inclement weather; APPROVED Minutes and Time Use Tracker for the Jan. 26 Regular Meeting and Public Hearing; RECEIVED the updated Financial Reports for Jan. 2022; APPROVED the 2021-22 Financial Audit Report; and APPROVED Budget Amendment No. 5.

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. March 21, 2022.

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THE LONGVIEW VOICE — March 2022

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