“Peace on earth will come to stay, when we live Christmas every day.” — Helen Steiner Rice
THE
ongview Voice
Sharing the good news about LISD!
Vol. 2 No. 11 December 2017
A publication of Longview Independent School District
Complimentary Copy
SEASONS GREETINGS
Holiday season brings a host of LISD activities and celebrations I t’s beginning to look a lot like Christmas around town and Longview ISD is no exception, as the pinnacle of the holiday season will soon be here. As your student will likely be participating in various seasonal ac tiv ities, please
keep in touch w ith your campus and Long view ISD for more information about upcoming events. You can check our Coming Events section (see Page 3) or follow us on your preferred social media platform. You can find us on Facebook or Twitter by searching for “Longview ISD.” One of the f irst events coming up will be the annual Long view Christmas Parade set for Dec. 7 in downtown Longview. The off icial start time is 6:30 p.m. but you’ll
want to get there early since parking f ills up rather quick downtown. The parade route runs along Whaley and Methvin street s around the Gregg County Courthouse. December will feature a number of Christmas programs and concerts at our various elementary and middle school campuses, as well as holiday musical events at the Melton Center on the Longview High School c ampus. For more in for ma t ion ab ou t t he se festivities, please call the campuses directly. Christmas break begins Dec. 23 and lasts through Jan. 7, 2018. During this time all district offices will be closed.
From all of our at Longview ISD, please have a safe and blessed holiday season. We look forward to another fantastic year at “the best school district east of Interstate 45!”
A thankful Lobo Nation Seven early graduates District inducts five alumni into Wall of Honor
A group of true American heroes (and their families) were recognized by a grateful Lobo Nation last month, as Longview ISD inducted five veterans into its Wall of Honor. Wall of Honor festivities were Nov. 6 during the Lobos home game against North Mesquite. Royce Barnwell served 5 years in the Army Air Corps. He earned a Distinguished Flying Cross in 1944 for flying 48 burn victims from Honolulu to San Francisco when the airport was closed due to fog. He landed on US 1 to save all 48 passengers. Barnwell also played on the state championship team in 1937. Continued on page 8, see “Wall”
THE
Longview Voice
Opinion Coming Events
2 3-7
receive diplomas
It may not have had the usual “pomp and circumstance” of the end of year graduation ceremony, but the diplomas presented to seven Longview Early Graduation High School students are just as special. During the Longview ISD trustees meeting Monday, Nov. 13, graduates were recognized by Principal Kristi Means. Means praised the graduates for their achievement, challenging them to “buckle up” for the challenges life will throw at them but to “always keep trucking” in pursuing their goals and dreams. “Whatever you do, don’t get distracted by the scenery or lose hope in yourself,” she said. “Yes, you may get lost, and have to go more miles than you intended, but sometimes the most difficult journeys are also the most rewarding.” November 2017 graduates: • Courtnee Abron plans to attend Kilgore College where she will study to become a Certified Nursing Assistant. • Savannah Dahmer plans to enlist in the United States Army. • Joseph Furham is a Globe Scholar graduating on the recommended plan. He has been accepted into Blinn College where he will major in Petroleum Engineering. • Jose Guerrero plans to enter the workforce. • Trista Kellog plans to attend Kilgore College where she will study to become a registered nurse. • Nicholas Ray is a Globe Scholar graduating on the recommended plan. He plans to attend Texas State Technical College where he will study Process Technology. Continued on page 8, see “Early Grads” Fall Fest Lawson Hall of Fame
4 9
Robotics Meet 11 Career Tech Regional Conference 15
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THE LONGVIEW VOICE —
OPINION December 2017
Remember your blessings this holiday season By Mayor Andy Mack
Dear Lobos, By the time you read this column, Veteran’s Day will have passed; Thanksgiving will be but a memory (other than the few pounds we gained from the food we ate) and we will all be looking forward to Christmas. What a great time of year this is! The weather is getting cooler, the leaves have turned colors, and we have turned the clocks back so that it gets dark earlier. Winter is fast approaching. What I like about this time of year is all the signif icance surrounding the holiday season. Let’s first talk about what has already passed, Veteran’s Day. Veteran’s Day was on November 11th. This is the day in which we take time to honor those who have served and given everything for our country and asked for nothing in return. These are young men and women that have sacrificed beyond what we will ever be able to comprehend. They trudged through trenches, slogged through jungles and braved the desert heat all for us. Yet we sometimes have trouble honoring them in a way that shows them the respect that they deserve. As for me, I know I will always stand when the National Anthem is played. I will always put my hand over my heart in reverence to the bravery, patriotism, the courage, and the sacrifice that was shown for me. These men and women
didn’t ask why or what or how; they just answered the call without question, hesitation or protest. So, my family and I will honor them without question, hesitation or protest because it is our duty. Every generation that passes, we tend to get further and further away from that patriotism. Well Lobos, now is the time for your generation to stand up. It is time for you to step back up and take a stand. Stand up for what is right, stand up for what allows you to do what you do and to be where you are and the freedoms that you enjoy. That’s all because of someone else’s sacrifice, not your own. So, let’s get back to what brought us here and keep our country strong, which brings us to the holiday of gratitude, Thanksgiving. Thanksgiving this year was on November 23rd. If you are like me, then this is one of your favorite holidays because you are a “foodie.” I love food. I love Thanksgiving. I love turkey and dressing, cranberry sauce and giblet gravy. I love green beans wrapped in bacon and macaroni and cheese. There is not much about Thanksgiving I don’t love. I love the rolls, specifically homemade yeast rolls. I love it all. And boy do I love pecan pie. I’m not a big pumpkin pie eater, but I will eat it. My favorite of all time is sweet potato pie and
that is what Thanksgiving Day is about for me as far as the food goes. I love the big meal and I love watching some football. But let’s not get too wrapped up in the food and the football and all of that fun stuff. Let’s remember what we should be thankful for. I’m thankful for a lot of things in my life. I’m first and foremost thankful for God, my Savior Jesus, thankful for my family, for health and for friends and for having a job and for all the things that I have that I don’t deserve. I’m thankful for a lot of things. I’m thankful for our city, thankful for the citizens that elected me as the Mayor of this community, to allow me to do things that make this a better place to live. I’m thankful for a lot of things, too many to ever list in an article like this, but each day I wake up and each day I go to bed I give thanks for what I have and for what’s before me and what’s behind me and even the unknowns of what’s in front of me. Because we never know what tomorrow will bring, but I’m thankful for every day that I have. Onward from Thanksgiving holiday, we move forward to the big one, Christmas. How much do you love the Christmas season? I love the decorations, I love the atmosphere, I love eggnog, I love people shopping and I love watching people shop. I’m not a huge shopper, but I enjoy getting out and being in the festive atmosphere. I love the way the mall looks. I love driving around
neighborhoods to see all the different Christmas decorations. There is so much about Christmas that I just love. I love the thought of Christmas morning and just waking up. My kids are too old now to have to worry about getting the presents put together and being under the tree, but I still love the thoughts of Christmas morning where we wake up and we enjoy time together. We open a few presents, we have fellowship, we have a great meal, but most of all we have to remember what Christmas is all about. Christmas is about the birth of our Savior, Jesus Christ, and that has to be the first and foremost in all of our celebration, because without that, there is really nothing else. So, I look forward to Christmas. I look forward to Christmas season, I look forward to a happy, healthy New Year ahead of us all. So, for now Lobos, I hope you have a Merry Christmas and a safe, healthy, happy New Year. Study hard, have some fun and say your prayers,
Andy — Dr. Andy Mack is a 1978 graduate of Longview High School. An oral and maxillofacial surgeon for more than 25 years, he is currently owner-operator of East Texas Oral and Maxillofacial Surgery in Longview.
Career Tech education could save our economy Assuming college is always the best option turns career-minded students away from true learning.
By Ashley Lamb-Sinclair
At a recent conference, I listened to a university president boast about a program she had developed in partnership with several local high schools. She told the story of one teenager who lived in a rural area and worked full time on his family’s farm in addition to attending high school. The university president explained that the young man had little promise for attending college because of his circumstances. But through the dual-credit program, he was able to gain college credit while still in high school, which gave him the confidence to seek an associate’s degree in agriculture and return home to work on his family farm. I listened as she proudly told this young man’s story and the audience cheered for both of them, and all I could think was: What an extraordinary waste of time. It may be shocking for a veteran high-school teacher to feel that a student gaining any kind of degree is a waste of time, but considering that 44 percent of recent college graduates are underemployed, and many employers are now completely ditching college degrees as a requirement altogether, it is becoming increasingly difficult to sell the same old story of “working hard to make good grades to go to
college to get a good job” to millennials. When I think of that young agriculture student, my heart hurts for him because I believe the system misled him. I wonder if he acquired any college debt during this journey, why he didn’t feel the need to continue on to attain a bachelor’s degree, and why it was necessary for a young man who grew up on a family farm to learn about agriculture miles away in a community-college classroom. I would feel a bit better if he wanted to be a teacher, or photographer, or engineer, and that’s why he went to college, but he didn’t. He went to learn something he probably already knew, but chances are nobody had ever validated his expertise, and no one had ever found a way for his secondary education to be integrated into the work he loved. Obviously, the counterargument here is the largely touted maxim that people with college degrees make more money than those without them, which is statistically true. But this idea is misleading: Crushing student-loan debt increases yearly and ethnicity, class, and gender factor into salary levels, regardless of education. And low-income kids can become targets for diploma mills that load them up with debt,
but not a lot of prospects. the army, and, years of sweat and Additionally, the average toil later, he continues to work American worker will as a carpenter today. And for the spend 90,000 to 125,000 most part, he is happy doing it. But hours working during he will be the first to say that he the course of a lifetime, wishes he had gone to college and so the greatest portion that going to college would have of a person’s life is often made his life easier overall. Maybe spent at work. Although it would have, but I wonder what it is easy to proclaim to would have happened if rather students coming of age than telling my dad that there was that “you will make more nothing left for him in traditional money if you get a degree,” it is education, his educators had much more difficult to shed light recognized his passion and his on the intricacies of such a claim. individual needs as a learner, I believe students should hear the and offered him options beyond whole story and more than one dropping out, the military, and traditional path should be laid out college. before them. I see students who disengage While in high school in the late from school because they believe ‘70s, my dad took every shop class that what they are learning his school offered. He spent hours doesn’t relate to who they are or hanging out with the shop teacher what they want to be—or worse, (a man with whom he still visits they are tracked by the system occasionally), working on projects into programs that appear to at home with his own carpenter be for their benefit but actually dad, and losing himself in sawdust perpetuate an unspoken bias, and splinters. Because it was the and are sometimes for the benefit ‘70s and things were quite different of universities, businesses, and then, a guidance counselor advised government agencies. him to go ahead and drop out of As much as parents, educators, school since he’d taken all the and school systems proclaim the shop he could—“There’s nothing importance of a college degree, else we can do for you here,” the only 14 percent of Americans counselor had said, according to believe that college adequately my dad. So that’s exactly what my prepares students for success in dad did: He dropped out, joined Continued on page 3, see “Career”
THE LONGVIEW VOICE —
December 2017
Want a modern school system? Technology is not enough
By Justin Vincent Technology in education of fers t he promise of individualized learning and improved outcomes for every student in America. It’s not a new idea. America’s first K-12 ed tech trials took place in 1966. Yet here we are -- over 50 years later and still no consistency of success or failure when it comes to educational outcomes. When people first started talking about education technology in the ‘70s, technology itself was the main blocker. We simply didn’t have the capacity to scale networks. Our devices were huge, input methods were clunky, the cost of each device was prohibitive and there was simply no understanding of how to design easy-to-use K-12 software with individualized and blended features. Can you imagine if a school district did decide to set up a 20-student computer lab in the ‘70s? With Hewlett Packard’s f irst “small business” computer (the HP 3000), it would have cost the equivalent of $10 million, and the computers alone would fill up a standard-size classroom! In 2017, everything has changed. Today, over 50% of K-12 students have access to an in-class laptop or tablet. Each device runs simple-touse software connected to a global always-on internet. Our students are digital natives, and 84% of our teachers make use of devices and technology during daily teaching activities. With all of that, the U.S. ranks a disappointing 38th out of 71 countries in standardized math testing and 24th in science. Clearly, technology and the deployment of that technology is not enough to consistently improve educational outcomes from teacher
to teacher, classroom to classroom and district to district. So, if technology isn’t enough, what is? While typical single-point solutions are great, there’s a disconnect between the districts that purchase software and the teachers who are left to try and figure out ed tech on their own. A district-wide plan with a holistic approach could be a better option. The key drivers for successful ed tech deployments are: • Leadership • Instructional models • Modern curriculum • Digital ecosystem • Professional learning This is called digital convergence. By bringing all of these drivers into alignment, we create a state of being out of which modern learning environments can evolve. A New Agenda We’re already seeing teachers make magic happen by successfully blending technology into the classroom. These are the early adopters who are not afraid to go out on a limb and take risks. However, to truly create a modern school system in the U.S., we’ll need to move beyond the early adopter and set a new agenda for all districts and educators. Where early adopters have shown us what’s possible, districts will need to take charge and lead the effort of transforming traditional classrooms to modern learning environments from here on out. At first, this idea might make educators feel uncomfortable. After all, no one likes to be told
what to do. However, when we look at progressive examples such as Baltimore County Public Schools’ S.T. A.T. program, Noblesville Schools’ #MillerShift program, Charlotte-Mecklenburg Schools’ strategic plan or Onslow County Schools’ experience, we see this is not so much about telling teachers what to do as it is about supporting teachers and creating a shared vision between leadership, educators and students. (Full disclosure: BCPS and Noblesville are partners with Modern Teacher.) When different parts of a district come together with a shared vision, they’re able to support each other in new ways. For instance, students become more comfortable leveraging technology for schoolwork due to its consistent implementation. Teachers are able to share and enhance digital resources because of a districtwide, tech-forward instructional model. Administrators are able to measure tangible improvements in their schools by focusing on shared district professional learning goals. All in all, this kind of environment makes a much more effective place for adults to work and for students to learn. In conclusion, for a modern school system, yes, district leadership will need to buy technology ... but that’s not enough. Districts will also need to come together to champion and manage the entire process of moving toward digital convergence in partnership with educators and students.
— Justin Vincent is lead product designer at Modern Teacher, a company that supports K-12 school districts to transition to modern learning environments at scale.
Career|Continued from page 2 the workplace, and only 11 percent of business leaders agree that college graduates are adequately prepared for the workforce. But like the university president I listened to at the recent conference, 96 percent of chief academics officers at colleges and universities are confident that they are preparing students for job success. Clearly there is a gap between what the American public and business leaders believe and what universities claim to achieve. Yet, the myth persists and the result is harmful to kids. — Ashley Lamb-Sinclair is a high-school instructional coach, and 2016 Kentucky Teacher of the Year. She is also founder/ CEO of Curio Learning.
Coming Events December 1 9th Grade Boys Basketball at Tatum Tournament (Tatum High) JV Lobo Basketball at Tatum Tournament (Tatum High) JV Lady Lobo Basketball at Royse City (Royse City) Varsity Lady Lobo Basketball at Royse City (Royse City) All Regional Orchestra Clinic Foster Middle (Tyler) December 2 8 a.m. SAT Testing (Longview High) 9 a.m. All Regional Orchestra Clinic and Competition Foster Middle (Tyler) Judson Middle Girls Basketball at Gladewater Middle Tournament (Gladwater) 9th Grade Lobo Basketball at Tatum Tournament (Tatum High) JV Lobo Basketball at Tatum Tournament (Tatum High) JV Lady Lobo Basketball at Royse City Varsity Lady Lobo Basketball at Royse City December 5 6 p.m. Lobo Cheer Booster Meeting (LHS Lower Library) December 6 10 a.m. Senior Graduating Sales and Senior Class meeting (Melton Center) 3:10 p.m. Dress rehearsals for Talent Show (Melton Center) 4:30 p.m. Lobo Cheer Practice (Turf Room) December 7 Pearl Harbor Remembrance Day 9th Grade Boys Basketball at Lufkin Tournament (Lufkin High) JV Lobo Basketball at Lufkin Tournament (Lufkin High) Varsity Lobo Basketball at Union Grove Tournament (Union Grove High) Varsity Lady Lobo Basketball at Great East Texas Shootout (Brownsboro High) 3 p.m. Dress rehearsals for Talent Show (Melton Center) 5 p.m. 7th Grade Girls Basketball Judson Middle hosts Foster (Judson Gym) 5 p.m. 7th Grade Girls Basketball Forest Park hosts Lufkin (Forest Park Gym) 5 p.m. 7th Grade Boys Basketball Judson Middle at Lufkin Purple (Lufkin) 5 p.m. 7th Grade Boys Basketball Forest Park Middle at Lufkin Gold (Lufkin) 6 p.m. 8th Grade Girls Basketball Judson Middle hosts Foster (Judson Gym) 6 p.m. 8th Grade Girls Basketball Forest Park hosts Lufkin (Forest Park Gym) 6 p.m. 8th Grade Boys Basketball Judson Middle at Lufkin Purple (Lufkin) 6 p.m. 7th Grade Boys Basketball Forest Park Middle at Lufkin Gold (Lufkin) December 8 9th Grade Lobo Basketball at Lufkin Tournament (Lufkin High) JV Lobo Basketball at Lufkin Tournament (Lufkin High) Varsity Lobo Basketball at Union Grove Tournament (Union Grove High) Varsity Lady Lobo Basketball at Great East Texas Shootout (Brownsboro High) 3:10 p.m. Dress rehearsals for Talent Show (Melton Center)
Mary Hagler
5200 Judson Rd. North Longview, TX 75605
Page 3
We Support The Longview
Independent School District
December 9 8 a.m. ACT Testing (Longview High) 9th Grade Lobo Basketball at Lufkin Tournament (Lufkin High) JV Lobo Basketball at Lufkin Tournament (Lufkin High) Varsity Lobo Basketball at Union Grove Tournament (Union Grove High) Varsity Lady Lobo Basketball at Great East Texas Shootout (Brownsboro High) December 11 8:45 a.m. Freshman Girl Awards (Melton Center) 10:20 a.m. Freshman Boy Awards (Melton Center) 5 p.m. 7th Grade Boys Basketball Forest Park Middle at Dogan (Dogan Middle) 5 p.m. 7th Grade Boys Basketball Foster
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THE LONGVIEW VOICE —
December 2017
ELEMENTARY
Good friends, good South Ward project honors our veterans memories
South Ward students learned about the 5 branches of the United States military and who are our veterans the week of November 6. Classes finished their Veterans Day study by completing a Soldier Mosaic Art Project. These projects were then given to the Highway 80 Rescue Mission and also to Fellowship Bible Church as a way to thank the church for the books that members have donated to the South Ward library.
Across our Long view ISD elementary campuses, we encourage all our students to pause for a moment and reflect on the good friends and great times you’re having.
You probably get tired of hearing grownups tell you how fast time flies, but in a blink of an eye you will be moving on to middle school, high school, and then getting ready for graduation. So stop for just a moment and look around, think about your friends and how fun school can be. Be a friend to others and make positive memories of your time in elementary school.
Ned draws huge crowd for Fall Fest
Ned E. Williams Elementary held its annual Fall Festival on Oct. 26, attracting more than 800 students, staff, and community members. “Our parents, students, and staff love festivals,” said Principal Dr. Cynthia Wise. “As curious parents and ecstatic students approached the entrance of Ned E. Williams, they could not help notice the Fall Festival welcome sign. You knew you were in for a treat.” The ghost from “Scream” and even an angel were among the many costumes donned by students. Pumpkin decorating, cake walking, dancing to a scary beat, bingo, ring toss, the famous haunted house and of course an abundance of food drew crowds as festival participants stood in lines to experience the activity of their choice. This year the event was even more special because the Lakeport Police Department greeted all guests with a bag of treats. Additionally, Forest Park MIddle School teachers participated in the event.
Fall Festival delights Bramlette students, parents
Bramlette Elementary hosted its Fall Festival on Oct. 27, with each grade competing to decorate their hallway. “We wanted to show our students that there was a fun side to school,” said Bramlette Principal, Nikita Mumphrey. “This was a great way to learn something AND work on a fun project with their teachers.” Each hallway had a different scary theme with games, photo opportunities, and candy. There was also a cake walk in the gym, funnel cakes in the cafeteria, and Kona Ice of Longviewserving snow cones.
THE LONGVIEW VOICE —
December 2017
‘Career Day’ comes back to South Ward
By Susan Moon, Guidance Counselor South Ward Elementary The South Ward Elementary School the seed. Teachers are actually dream givers hosts its Career Day annually for two days. I to many of the students. am the coordinator of Career Day. Students Most of the time there are 20 to 30 learn about exciting careers/jobs from community helpers that participate in people who actually work in those fields. Career Day. It depends upon how many This encourages children to begin thinking I call and how much time can be devoted about what they might want to be when to inviting community helpers. As the they grow up. Career Day allows students counselor, I realized that all students will to connect education with career success. not attend college. Therefore, I provide the If we want to improve our society, we students with a diverse group of presenters. must make sure that students have dreams Presenters that acquired their job/career or goals in life. I tell the students, “The from attending college are invited for the dream begins in Kindergarten.” Later on, I students that dream of going to college. had to change it to Pre-K. We have to plant For other students, I invite presenters who do not need a college education to be successful for the students who will not attend college. Every job/career is honorable. The teacher and his/her students have the opportunity to attend different sessions for the entire day. Some presenters can only stay an hour, others 2-3 hours. For most teachers that means that their class will attend at least seven sessions during the day. Career Day is all about the student because we do not know which path the
student will take in order to reach their dream job. For the first 18 years, Career Day was held in the Spring semester. I moved to the Fall semester because some of the presenters would share life lessons and I felt that the students needed to hear these lessons and it would motivate the students to do well during the school year. The faculty and staff have been very supportive of Career Day. After all, it takes teamwork in order for Career Day to be successful. I am always very appreciative of my co-workers during this endeavor.
Communities In Schools pep rally hosted at Ware
The goal of this event is to encourage students to see and understand the academic and active portion of college life. Communities in Schools of East Texas is the leading drop-out prevention program in America! Our company encourages students, of all ages to succeed academically, increase attendance rate in school, promote positive behavior and have an understanding that their basic needs are well taken care of. Kiara Smothers, the Site Coordinator for Communities in Schools of East Texas at Ware Elementary, believes that allowing students to see what college life is all about early, will help increase their chances of going. “I believe that students should be exposed to something that is going to encourage them and enlighten them on what their future can be like. I am a living example! I went to college and academically and actively participated on campus! College is the best place to help an individual grow as a responsible adult. More so, because the students on this campus should see how important their education is.” Special thanks to the participants of the College Day PepRally; Longview High School Cheerleaders, UT Tyler recruiter Heather S., Kilgore College’s Admission Counselor Wade Cates and the Rangerettes, LeTourneau UniversityRachel Olshene along with the Volleyball and Softball teams, Texas A&M Commerce, and Greek Life members from Kappa Delta Chi Sorority Inc., Phi Iota Alpha Fraternity Inc., Phi Beta Sigma Fraternity Inc., and Zeta Phi Beta Sorority Inc., Delta Sigma Theta Sorority Inc.
Page 5 Middle hosted Hubbard (Foster Gym) 5 p.m. 7th Grade Boys Basketball Judson Middle hosted Moore (Judson Gym) 6 p.m. 8th Grade Boys Basketball Forest Park Middle at Dogan (Dogan Middle) 6 p.m. 8th Grade Boys Basketball Foster Middle hosted Hubbard (Foster Gym) 6 p.m. 8th Grade Boys Basketball Judson Middle hosted Moore (Judson Gym) 7 p.m. Board of Trustees Regular Meeting (LISD administration building) December 12 5 p.m. 9th Grade Lobo Basketball at Mount Pleasant (Mount Pleasant High) 5p.m. 9th Grade Lady Lobo Basketball at Mesquite Horn (Mesquite Horn High) 5 p.m. JV Lady Lobo Basketball at Mesquite Horn (Mesquite Horn High) 5:30 p.m. JV Lobo Basketball at Mount Pleasant (Mount Pleasant High) 6 p.m. Lobo Swim hosts Pine Tree, Tyler Lee, Hudson (Lobo Aquatic Center) 6 p.m. Johnston-McQueen Elementary Holiday Concert (Johnston-McQueen Campus) 6:30 p.m. Varsity Lady Lobo Basketball at Mesquite Horn (Mesquite Horn High) 7 p.m. Varsity Lobo Basketball at Mount Pleasant (Mount Pleasant High) December 13 Hanukkah (Dec. 13-20) 11 a.m. Senior Graduating Sales and Senior Class meeting (Melton Center) 4:30 p.m. Lobo Cheer Practice (Turf Room) December 14 Varsity Lobo Basketball at Kilgore Tournament (Kilgore Gyms) Middle School Boys Basketball at Henderson Tournament (Henderson) 3 p.m. Johnny’s Pizza hosts Longview Foundation Pig Out 5 p.m. 7th Grade Girls Basketball at Moore Middle (Moore Gym) 5 p.m. 7th Grade Girls Basketball Forest Park hosts Dogan (Forest Park Gym) 5 p.m. 7th Grade Girls Basketball Foster at Hubbard Middle (Hubbard Gym) 6 p.m. 8th Grade Girls Basketball at Moore Middle (Moore Gym) 6 p.m. 8th Grade Girls Basketball Forest Park hosts Dogan (Forest Park Gym) 6 p.m. 8th Grade Girls Basketball Foster at Hubbard Middle (Hubbard Gym) December 15 Varsity Lobo Basketball at Kilgore Tournament (Kilgore Gyms) 5 p.m. 9th Grade Lady Lobo Basketball hosts Tyler Lee (Lobo Coliseum) 5 p.m. JV Lady Lobo Basketball hosts Tyler Lee (Lobo Coliseum) 6:30 p.m. Varsity Lady Lobo Basketball hosts Tyler Lee (Lobo Coliseum) December 16 Varsity Lobo Basketball at Kilgore Tournament (Kilgore Gyms) December 18 Band Christmas Concert Series (Melton Center) 7 p.m. Foster Band Winter Concert (Foster Middle) December 19 Band Christmas Concert Series (Melton Center) December 20 Band Christmas Concert Series (Melton Center) 4:30 p.m. Lobo Cheer Practice (Turf Room) 5 p.m. 9th Grade Lobo Basketball A Team hosts Rockwall (Lobo Coliseum) 5 p.m. 9th Grade Lady Lobo Basketball at Rockwall (Rockwall High) 5 p.m. JV Lady Lobo Basketball at Rockwall (Rockwall High) 5:30 p.m. JV Lobo Basketball hosts Rockwall (Lobo Coliseum) 6 p.m. 9th Grade Lobo Basketball B Team hosts Rockwall (Lobo Coliseum) 6:30 p.m. Varsity Lady Lobo Basketball at Rockwall (Rockwall High) 7 p.m. Varsity Lobo Basketball hosts Rockwall (Lobo Coliseum) December 21 Band Christmas Concert Series (Melton Center)
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THE LONGVIEW VOICE —
December 2017
2nd annual Science Night Parent-teacher program gets J.L. Everhart ready prompts helpful dialogue J.L. Everhart hosted its 2nd annual science night Nov. 3 to kick off participation for science fair projects. “This is the largest event we have hosted (that is not a musical performance),” said Arthur Brown, J.L. Everhart principal. “The parents and students are having a great time and excited about science.” Grades 1-5 participated in Thursday’s event and grade 4 and 5 will start working on their science projects that are due in February 2018.
Third, 4th and 5th grade teachers facilitated a “make and take” curriculum session with parents on Nov. 4 at Ned E. Williams Elementary entitled “Staf f Teaching Adults About Readiness and Rigor.” After introductions, the teachers began with conversations with the parents about the math expectations for each grade. They were shown several examples of the differences between 3rd Grade Math, 4th Grade Math, and 5th Grade Math. These included: • Place Value to the billions place • The introduction of Decimals... to the tenths and hundredths place • The introduction of Division... up to four digits divided by one divisor Parents were shown several strategies and algorithms to help their children master these new
skills. They were given times tables sheets to practice with their children at home, as a firm grasp of multiplication is necessary to be successful at division. R e a d i n g t e a c h e r s presented the parents with information and strategies about reading and the skills necessary to succeed on the STAAR Test. The parents were given released STAAR samples of reading tests. The teachers showed the parents strategies and ideas to help their children recognize main idea, how to brainstorm ideas, and how to organize their thoughts and put them down on paper. “The Training Session was a success,” said Ned E. Williams principal, Dr. Cynthia Wise. “The parents asked questions, and we received positive feedback from the parents.”
Bramlette programs raises student awareness Communities in Schools and Bramlette Elementary have partnered up in recent weeks for events to create student awareness for various community career options. Oct. 31 the Pink Heals Fire truck was on campus to raise awareness for breast cancer for Bramlette Elementary students and teachers. Students and staff who have been impacted by breast cancer were allowed to sign the truck. Pink Heals is a program that partners with Public Safety, local businesses and families to bring the community together. Nov. 2 featured the 3rd annual Career on Wheels event at Bramlette. The goal of Career on Wheels is to allow students to see different careers utilizing company vehicles. The students rotated through all of the participating organizations, and company representatives gave a brief overview of each career. Thank you to all the businesses and organizations that attended including; the Longview Police Department, Longview Fire Department , Tri-City Charter, Bennett Motor Express, Street Licious and multiple other local agencies.
‘Donuts For Dudes’ delights at JMQ
,
As Donuts for Dudes wraps up we want to thank everyone for taking the time to participate in the Wild West Book Fair events! The students had a good ol’ time and from the looks of it...JMQ cowboys/ cowgirls have these dudes lassoed around their finger!
THE LONGVIEW VOICE —
December 2017
GT testing underway
In accordance with the Texas State Plan for the Education of Gifted/ Talented Students, the Longview Independent School District will consider students in grades K-8 (who are not yet identified as gifted and talented) for nomination and screening for gifted and talented program services. Anyone interested in the educational welfare of these students may nominate them for assessment. Nomination and consent for assessment forms are available at all elementary
and middle schools in the counselors’ offices. The forms for students in grades 3-8 were due last month and assessment for grades K-2 will begin on Monday, Nov. 27. For more information about the screening and identification process, parents may contact the school counselors at their children’s campuses or Catina Love, State Assessment Coordinator, at (903) 381-2245.
PEP greenhouse taking shape!
Longview ISD Foundation, Inc. assisted in providing a new greenhouse to assist Hudson PEP Elementary STEM students in biology and other STEM studies. Along with help from the campus’ Watch Dog Dads, there are plans to create a recycled water irrigation system for students to use. “I’m so grateful for all the help I’ve received over the last several months,” said STEM coordinator, Ashley McClanahan. “First, I would like to thank the Longview ISD Foundation, Inc.for funding the purchase of the greenhouse! Mr. Rob Holloway, parent and owner of New Orleans Gardens, helped me through the process. Together we picked out a greenhouse that
would be best for our school. Mr. Craig Bass, Mr. Ray Hatcher, and several Watch Dog dads helped organize and build the greenhouse. I’m very grateful and appreciate all the help! This greenhouse will be used by all students at Hudson PEP Elementary. My vision of planting and growing plants even in the winter months will now become a reality. I couldn’t be more excited and can’t wait to put this to good use. Thank you to everyone who invested in our children’s education!”
Page 7 3 p.m. Lady Lobo Softball Dodgeball Tournament (Lobo Coliseum) December 22 End of Third Six Weeks December 23 Christmas Break (Dec. 23-Jan. 7) December 24 Christmas Eve December 25 Christmas Day December 26 Kwanzaa (Dec. 26Jan. 1) December 27 4:30 p.m. Lobo Cheer Practice (Turf Room) December 28 Varsity Lobo Basketball hosts Romines Basketball Tournament (Lobo Coliseum) Varsity Lady Lobo Basketball at Aggieland Basketball Tournament (College Station) December 29 Varsity Lobo Basketball hosts Romines Basketball Tournament (Lobo Coliseum) Varsity Lady Lobo Basketball at Aggieland Basketball Tournament (College Station) December 30 Varsity Lobo Basketball hosts Romines Basketball Tournament (Lobo Coliseum) Varsity Lady Lobo Basketball at Aggieland Basketball Tournament (College Station) December 31 New Year’s Eve
Con
Presents
Johnston-McQueen Student of the Month
Caitlyn Warren
Johnston-McQueen Elementary 1st grader Caitlyn Warren is the Hospitality ER Student of the Month! A student in Ms. Christina Siler’s class, Caitlyn is currently battling cancer and undergoing chemotherapy treatments. “Caitlyn still comes to school every day she possibly can with a positive attitude, doing whatever it takes to keep up, and through it all is still able to perform at the same level as her peers,” Ms. SIler said. JMQ principal Mr. Scott Fisher said Caitlyn exemplifies the best traits of a Lil’ Lobo on his campus, and praised her heart and courage. Congrats Caitlyn and keep up the great work!
Family Owned & Operated 24/7 ER with NO WAIT
McCann Rd.--Next to Academy
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Chal Daniel graduated from Longview ISD in 1938. He served two years in the Army Air Corps before he died in action in February of 1943. He is in the University of Texas Athletic Wall of Honor and earned First-Team All-American Guard his freshman year at UT. James Sparks served for two years in the Navy aboard the U.S.S. Highlands. He served bravely in the Battle of Leyte Gulf Operation, the Battle of Iwo Jima, and Battle of Okinawa. He moved back to the Longview area where he lived until January 2017. David Sparks served three years in the Marines aboard the U.S.S. Tennessee. He earned a Purple Heart, an Asiatic Pacific Campaign Medal, World War II Victory Medal, and Philippine Liberation Medal. He is noted as having more than 10 acts of heroism before he was k illed in action in 1945. Ac t s of heroism: Gilbert Islands Operation November 20, 1943 December 4, 19 4 3 ; Marshall I s l a n d s operation J a n u a r y 31, 1944 February 8, 1944 and again February 15, 1944 - February 23, 1944; Marianas Islands Operation June 14, 1944 - June 22, 1944 and again August 3, 1944 - August 9, 1944; Borneo operations July 2, 1944 - August 2, 1944; Western Caroline operation September 6, 1944 - October 14, 1944; Leyte operation October 10, 1944
December 2017
- November 29, 19 4 4; Iwo Jima operation February 16, 1945 - March 7, 19 4 5 ; Okinawa G u n t o operation March 25, 1945 - April 12, 1945 (the day that he was killed in action). H e n r y LaGrone has served in the Marines for 21 years. He served three tours; Operations Southern Watch, Operation Eager Mace; Operation Nautical Mantis and Iron Magic, Operation United Shield in Somilia, and Operation Enduring Freedom 5. He has earned Commendation Medal, Navy Achievement Medal twice, Certificate of Commendation from Los Angeles County Sheriff’s Department, and Certificate of Commendation from Los Angeles 5th District Supervisor. While at LHS LaGrone was a member of the Big Green Marching Machine. LISD spokeswoman Liz Ross said there were more than 15 applications for the honor this year, “much more than any in the last three years.” “The district is honored to have these veterans on the Wall of Honor,” she added. Board member (and U.S. Army veteran) Ted Beard agreed. “Longview ISD is a district that strongly believes in honoring the sacrifices of these great Americans,” he said. “Inducting these fine people into our Wall of Honor is just a small token of gratitude for those that defended the freedoms we take for granted.”
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• Jorge Sanchez Toribio plans to attend Kilgore College where he will study welding. The Longview Early Graduation High School (formerly known as LEAD Academy) serves progressive students who wish to graduate early. Providing dual-credit courses for students seeking higher education, it also features career and technology options, online/distance learning, and ACT/SAT preparation.
Shop to support your Lobo athletes! The weather’s cooling off so now’s the time to upgrade your winter wardrobe with the latest team styles at the booster club’s Lobo Shop! Stop by the Athletic Office or call (903) 381-3950 for more information!
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December 2017
SPORTS
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Steelman and Langston named ‘High School Heisman’ for LHS
Lobo seniors named School Winners for National honor
There are some students who set the bar. They work harder, show more passion and lead by example—in the classroom, on the field and within the community. Today, Wendy’s High School Heisman recognizes Sophie Steelman and William Langston from Longview High School and their dedication to never cutting corners by naming them School Winners. “These students are known by their teachers and friends for their commitment to excellence. We are excited and honored that a program like Wendy’s High School Heisman is also recognizing their hard work,” said LHS Principal James Brewer Since 1994, Wendy’s and the Heisman Trophy Trust have been running the same play to perfection: honoring more than 600,000 of the nation’s most esteemed students. This year, Wendy’s will celebrate the accomplishments of thousands of the best high school seniors, awarding winners in five phases.
School Winners will receive a School Winner certificate and a Wendy’s High School Heisman Patch. State Finalists will receive a bronze medal, a Wendy’s High School Heisman State Finalist patch and a $25 gift card. For more information or to track a student’s progress through the competition, please visit www.WendysHeisman.com. The Wendy’s High School Heisman was created by Wendy’s founder Dave Thomas in 1994. Dave Thomas dropped out of high school when he was 15 years old in order to work full-time and went on to become one of the most successful entrepreneurs in history. While this nontraditional path led to his prosperity, it always worried Dave that others would follow in his footsteps and expect to achieve similar fame and wealth by not finishing high school or attending college. Faced with this dilemma, at 61 years old, Dave enrolled at Coconut Creek High School in Ft. Lauderdale, Fla., and received his General Equivalency Diploma (GED). Inspired by this moment and with a desire to celebrate the outstanding achievements of youth in America, he launched the Wendy’s High School Heisman program. Twenty-two years later, Wendy’s High School Heisman has honored more than 600,000 of the nation’s most esteemed high school seniors who share Wendy’s values of giving back to their communities, treating people with respect, continuing education and excelling on the athletic field. The Wendy’s High School Heisman is a joint program between Wendy’s and the Heisman Trophy Trust, host and custodians of the Heisman Memorial Trophy.
Angela Lawson honored for Hall of Fame career
Lady Lobo basketball legend Angela Lawson was honored at halftime Nov. 3 for her exceptional playing career, both for Longview High and Louisiana Tech. “It’s just a small gesture to recognize her time as a Lady Lobo as well as her great career after she graduated,” said Athletic Director John King. “It’s important for our student-athletes to understand they are a part of a tradition of excellence, a tradition they need to strive to continue.” Currently the Senior Associate Director of Athletics for Academic Services as well as the Senior Woman Administrator at the University of the Incarnate Word, Angela oversees several of the women’s sports and is the sport administrator for volleyball, women’s basketball, women’s soccer, softball and synchronized swimming. During this time Angela was highly involved in the NCAA reporting and reclassification of the University of the Incarnate Word transitioning from Division II to their currentstatus of Division I. Angela moved into her administrative role after thirteen seasons as the Head Women’s Basketball Coach at the University of the Incarnate Word. Lawson was the university’s only Division II head coach and holds the program’s record for most wins with a 190-174 record. Her teams competed in 6 conference tournament finals, won 1 conference tournament, won 1 regular season conference championship and competed in 1 NCAA D-II Regional tournament. Prior to coaching at UIW Lawson was an assistant women’s basketball coach at Baylor University from 1994-2000. The biggest Baylor highlight was playing in the finals of the WNIT in 1998. She was also an assistant coach at Texas State from 1991-1994. Her first coaching stint came as a graduate assistant coach at the University of Tennessee under legendary head coach Pat Summitt. In 1991 Angela was on the coaching staff when the program won their third National Championship. A native of Longview, during her four-year varsity career at Longview High School her team’s record was 137-15. Listed below are notable high school accomplishments: 4-Time 1st Team All-District 4-Time All East Texas (one 2nd team, three 1st team and 3 time MVP) 3-Time 1st Team All-State 1983-84: Street & Smith All- American, Adidas All-American and USA Today All- American 1983-84 Amarillo Chamber of Commerce Texas High School Outstanding Basketball Player 1984 MVP State Tournament
LOBO SUPERFANS!
For some of us game day means pulling out our green and gold pom poms, noisemakers, envisioning a big Lobo Football win, what you will do postgame, or reviewing game film to make sure you know exactly what to do on the field. For the Mackeys it is about Lobo pride, legacy, and family. The Mackeys have been attending Longview ISD games since the 1950s and have been season ticket holders since the late 1960s. Their story speaks to the heart of what being a part of the Lobo Nation is truly about. The Mackeys found it difficult to find tickets for the 1967 playoffs so they said that will not happen again. They made sure they were on the list for season tickets for the 1968 season and have been at almost every home game since. “Go Lobos,” said Mrs. Mackey. “The Lobos are a great team and it has been wonderful to watch them through the years,” said Mr. Mackey. “Keep up the hard work.”
They have traveled all over Texas supporting the Lobo football t e a m s a nd the Lady Lobo basketball teams. The Mackeys don’t just support the Lobos, they had children and grandchildren who attended Longview ISD schools. One memory they will always hold true to their hearts was attending their grandson’s wedding right on the 50-yard line of Lobo Stadium. That son has worked with his mom to make a t-shirt blanket of his shirts from the 70s and 80s. Both their daughters were Viewettes and very active in Lady Lobo athletics. We are proud to say that Section F Row 8 seat 2 and 3 has given a lot of memories to this wonderful couple and we hope they continue to support the Lobos as longs as they can.
1984 Selected to both the TGCA and TABC All-Star Games 1982-83: 5A State Semi-finalist (38-1) 1983-84: 5-A State Champions & USA Today National runner-up/Ranked #2 in the Nation (39-0) Career points: 3,011 Career rebounds: 904 Career Assists: 1,040 Career Steals: 579 Signed National Letter of intent with Louisiana Tech from 1984-1988 1987 Final Four (Lost to Tennessee in National Championship Game...player) 1988 Final Four National Champions @ Louisiana Tech (player) 1991 National Champions @ the University of Tennessee (Graduate Assistant Coach) 1989 BS in Physical Education/1991 MS in Human Performance and Sport Studies Angela enjoys traveling, reading, working out at the YMCA with her friends, being outdoors and spending time with her family in the Longview and Dallas area. She has a green thumb like her mother, Kathie, and loves working in her yard. She also loves to go fishing with her dad, Charles whenever they get the chance. She has one sister, Melanie, a brother-in law Russ, 2 nephews, 1 great niece and 2 great nephews.
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MIDDLE SCHOOL
Judson choir achieves Middle schoolers attend ‘Career Inspire’ region honors
Longview ISD middle schools students listened to local professionals talk about their jobs during a Career Inspire event Nov. 8 at Maude Cobb Convention Center. Students from Forest Park, Foster, and Judson learned about different career paths and asked questions about how they might pursue their own goals in similar fields. The events was sponsored by Junior Achievement of Longview, Longview Economic Development Corp., and the GLOBE Scholar program.
Thank you Veterans!
The Judson Middle School Choir had 23 seventh and eighth graders travel to Hallsville on Oct. 14 to compete in the Middle School All-Region Choir. We are so proud of each of them for their hardwork and dedication that each gave in preparation for this contest! Judson had 14 students earn All-Region honors: Soprano 1--Abigail Smith, Andrea Smith, Sony Betancourt Soprano 2--Aniah Stansell, Daryn Ratcliff, Tinija Smith, Isabela Garza Alto--Kaitlyn Fowler, Tayana Overton, Cailan Montgomery Tenor--Nathan Lawson Bass--Josh Harrison, Jaquaris Cooper, Kaleb Woolridge Congratulations to these students, and all our students who participated!
Judson Middle School students and staff pay tribute to those who have served and say thank you as Wounded Warriors Project members Nov. 9 during their Veterans Day drive through Longview.
Rivals for now, teammates later Middle school athletic programs at Forest Park, Foster, and Judson play each other tough for now... but eventually they’ll all be Lobos.
Family Owned for 102 Years That’s one of the great things about LISD sports, our athletes sharpen each other as youngsters but will all grow together as ONE Longview in the pride of Lobo Nation.
Sales • Parts • Service We are proud to support the Longview Independent School District and their continued growth in the community!
200 Spur 63, Longview, TX (903) 758-6211 pegueshurstford.com
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December 2017
Dragonettes earn dance honors!
So proud of the Foster Dragonettes! The first competition of 2017-18 went well! The Dragonettes received a Judges award for lyrical (only 5 were given out total), 2 first place awards for lyrical and streamer, and a second and third place for Pom and kick. We were only 3 points away from winning the middle school overall champion!
Robotics competes at Region VII meet On Nov. 16 the Foster Middle School Robotics team competed in the Region VII ESC Robotics Competition. Students prepare multiple robots that operate through coding in an app. This competition continued in multiple rounds over the course of the week.
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December 2017
HIGH SCHOOL
A ‘sweet’ investment! LHS beehives provide important ecological education
Twice a year the CTE Horticulture team will harvest honey from the beehives in the back of the Career Technology building. “This is a really exciting addition to our program and we cannot wait to do this again in the spring,” said CATE Education Director Brian Kasper. Every person that works with the honey harvest much “suit up” in a protective bee suit to keep the bees from stinging. Once the hives are uncovered, the bees are smoked out and brushed off the honeycombs in order to harvest the honey. Once the honeycombs are in the horticulture room, they are spun to retrieve the honey. It’s a program that the CTE program is thrilled to grow and another example of the innovative education that Longview ISD has to offer.
Lobos win ‘Coats For Kids’ contest Congratulations to Longview High School for winning the Gregg County, Coats for Kids Classroom Challenge again this year. That is 6 out of the last 7 years. Something to be proud of! Over 350 coats donated!
LISD accepting nominations for distinguished alumni
The Longview ISD Alumni Association is accepting nominations for distinguished alumni to be honored by the district next spring. The deadline for nominations is 4 p.m. Dec. 1, 2017. Nomination applications can be downloaded from t the district website at www.LISD.org or picked up at the administration building at 1301 E. Young St. All nominees must be alumni of Longview High School, and they must have graduated at least 10 years ago. For more information, please contact Debbie Leith, LISD Community Relations at (903) 381-2200.
Longview ISD custodial staff William Dickerson, Louis Watkins, and Edith Jackson are the Auxiliary Employees of the Month for November. Longtime staffers Ms. Edith and Mr. William have served Longview ISD for multiple decades — while Mr. Louis is a relative newcomer — but all three are appreciated for their hard work in support of the district. Janitorial services at LISD are contracted through GCA, but Superintendent Dr. James Wilcox said these fine people are as much a part of the Lobo family as any. “What they bring to our organization cannot be truly appreciated because they typically remain behind the scenes,” he said. “But we want all of our custodial workers to know how valued they are at Longview ISD, and how appreciative we are for everything they do to give our students and employees a clean, beautiful place to learn and work.”
Would you like your business to sponsor this
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Career tech students attend regional conference SkillsUSA Texas District 5 chapters from high schools across the district took part in the Fall Leadership Conference on Nov. 1 at Paris High School. More than 200 students, educators, and sponsors attended the event from the following high schools: Crandall, Denison, John Tyler, Kilgore, Lindale, Longview, Marshall, McKinney, Mt. Vernon, North Lamar, Palestine, Paris, Pine Tree, Pittsburg, Rockwall-Heath, Sherman, Texas High, Tyler Career & Tech, Wylie East, and Wylie High. Representing Longview High SkillsUSA Texas; Hunter Fenton (President), Modesto Orrossquieta (Vice President), Jacob Heard (Secretary), Jesus Huerta (Treasurer), Tyler Wilder (Reporter), Marcos Castillo (Parliamentarian). Opening ceremonies, breakout sessions, and closing ceremonies were led by the District 5 student officers, including Paris High School senior Ceaira Gill. According to Sheila Hyde, District 5 Director, “The conference allows students to work on leadership and workplace skills. Although specific skill sets will change, the leadership piece today will always be needed.” SkillsUSA is a partnership of schools and communities working together. SkillsUSA strives to ensure students find success in college and the workplace. Students can become involved with SkillsUSA through their school’s CTE programs.
GO MAJORETTES!
Congratulations to the Majorette’s for bringing home three UIL First Division ratings on group routines and one First Division rating on a solo routine! We are proud of you ladies! Great work!
LHS NEEDS CARS!
Longview High School Automotive Technology program is seeking donations for trucks/cars or car parts, 1996 or newer, to enable students to have hands on experience in repair and rebuilding. Donations help to prepare students for a highly competitive technological work environment with real world knowledge and proficiency. For more information please contact LHS automotive instructor Mr. Paul Bouis via email rbouis@lisd.org or call (903) 663-7317.
3&3 Plate, 3 tenders, 3 wings, & 2 dipping sauce, toast & fries
Hours 10:30am - 10pm, 7 days a week 204 East Loop 281 • Longview 903-236-2909
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