2015 ANNUAL PERFORMANCE REPORT

ALAMO HEIGHTS ISD

AHISD 2015 Repor t tweet: Alamo Heights ISD @AHISD

HOW TO REACH US

write: Alamo Heights Independent School District

7101 Broadway, San Antonio, Texas 78209

call: 210-824-2483

fax: 210-822-2221

email: info@ahisd.net

surf: www.ahisd.net

APP: iTunes: AHISD

video: YouTube: Alamo Heights Mules

learn more: www.WeGoPublic.com

DISTRICT LEADERSHIPBOARD OF TRUSTEESJoseph Dubrof, President

Bonnie Giddens, Vice President

John Tippit, Secretary

Margaret Judson, Assistant Secretary

Lynn S. Thompson

Lisa Krenger

Perry Shankle

ADMINISTRATIONDr. Kevin Brown, Superintendent

Dr. Dana Bashara, Assistant Superintendent for Elementary Education

Dr. Frank Alfaro, Assistant Superintendent for Secondary Education

Mike Hagar, Assistant Superintendent for Business & Finance

Sandra Shelton, Director of Instructional & Information Technology

Kris Holliday, Director of Special Education & Pupil Services

Gene Phillips, Director of Athletics

Richard Mallard, Director of Nutrition Services

Max Flores, Human Resources Coordinator

Patti Pawlik-Perales, Communications Coordinator

CAMPUS ADMINISTRATORS

High SchoolDr. Cordell Jones, Principal

Terri Duncan, Academic Dean

Norm Collins, Assistant Principal

Frank Padilla, Assistant Principal

Junior SchoolLaura Ancira, Principal

David Nungaray, Academic Dean

Brea Green, Assistant Principal

Bob Haak, Assistant Principal

Cambridge Elementary SchoolLaurel Babb, Principal

Jennifer Flores, Assistant Principal

Woodridge Elementary SchoolDebbie Garinger, Principal

Roxanna Montes-Bazaldua, Assistant Principal

Howard Early Childhood CenterSusan Peery, Principal

Sylvia Rodriguez, Assistant Principal

Jimmie Walker, Elementary Academic Dean

VISIT AHISD: Take a look at Alamo Heights Independent School District by arranging a visit to one of our campuses. Our administrative offices are open Monday through Friday from 8:00 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. year-round to assist you. Visitors are encouraged to call two weeks in advance to schedule appointments.

VISIT AHISD ONLINE: The Alamo Heights website allows you to personalize your surfing experience! You can check out the latest news stories and events occurring in our classrooms, schools, auditoriums and playing fields, review profiles and program information that is tailored to meet your individual interests at www.ahisd.net. FRONT ROW: Bonnie Giddens, Vice President; Joseph Dubrof, President; and

Lisa Krenger, Trustee. BACK ROW: Dr. Kevin Brown, Superintendent of Schools; John Tippit, Secretary; Lynn S. Thompson, Trustee; Margaret Judson, Assistant Secretary; and Perry Shankle, Trustee.

AHISD IS BLUE AND GOLD, AND WE ARE ALSO “GREEN.” This report is printed on FSC® certified paper. Clear Visions, the print shop that printed this report, has been certified by BMtrada as a Forest Stewardship Council® (FSC®) Chain-of-Custody printer. Certification of paper mills and forests is an important step in furthering protection of the environment and protecting it for the future. Chain-of-Custody certification is the process of tracking and recording possession and transfer of wood and fiber from the forests of origin, through different stages of production, and delivery to the end user.

When you are finished reading this report, please consider recycling it in the paper collection bins outside of our AHISD campuses. These recycle bins serve as a fund raising mechanism for AHISD schools.

(Pho

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(Cover photos by Mark Humphries)

— 1 — www.AHISD.net

DISTRICT PROFILEAHISD PROGRAM ENROLLMENT

State Alamo Heights

% % #

Bilingual 17.8% 6.2% 293

Career / Technology 23.2% 11.6% 553

Gifted / Talented 7.6% 17.8% 849

Special Education 8.5% 7.0% 334

AHISD SCHOOLS AND ENROLLMENT

Howard Early Childhood Center (PK and K) .....355

Woodridge Elementary ....................................930

Cambridge Elementary. ...................................805

Junior School (6-8) ........................................1,122

High School (9-12) ........................................1,548

Total Enrollment ...........................................4,760

STUDENT DEMOGRAPHICS

African American .......................................... 1.2%

Hispanic ...................................................... 40.3%

White ......................................................... 54.2%

Asian/Pacific Isl ............................................. 2.4%

Native American ........................................... 0.4%

Economically Disadvantaged....................... 20.6%

College-bound .............................................. 93%

Dropout Rate ................................................ 0.3%

Attendance Rate ......................................... 96.4%

Limited English Proficient .............................. 4.9%

AHISD ATTENDANCE BOUNDARIES

Geographically, AHISD is one of the smallest school districts in the state, covering only 9.4 square miles. The district serves students from the communities of Alamo Heights, Terrell Hills, Olmos Park, and a portion of North San Antonio.

AHISD BUDGET & TAXES

Expenditures, Maintenance & Operations

Instruction and Rel Serv .....................$27,312,168

Instruction & School Ldrshp ................$ 3,172,459

Support Services-Student ....................$ 4,036,253

Admin Support Services .......................$1,817,186

Support Services-Non Student ............$ 4,724,278

Total District Expenditures ............ $41,058,344

State Recapture (Robin Hood) ............$29,392,339

AHISD Tax Rate .............................................$1.06

Int & Sinking Tax / $100 valuation...............$0.135

Total Taxable Property Value ........ $6,502,880,034

Assessed Value per Student ................$ 1,274,246

Levy from AHISD Prop. Tax Rate (est.) ...$71,538,942

Current Bonded Indebt ................... $101,948,212

Per Pupil Expenditure, M&O ...................$7,596 (based on enrollment)

TABLE OF CONTENTSDISTRICT PROFILE . . . . . . . . . . . . PAGE 1ADVANCED PLACEMENT SCORES . . . . . . PAGE 2ADVANCED PLACEMENT SCHOLAR . . . . . PAGE 22015 GRADUATION PROFILE . . . . . . . . PAGE 2NATIONAL MERIT SCHOLARS . . . . . . . . PAGE 3SAT/ACT SCORES. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . PAGE 3STAAR TEST RESULTS . . . . . . . . . . . . .PAGE 4ACADEMIC ACHIEVEMENTS . . . . . . . . . PAGE 5DUKE TALENT SEARCH . . . . . . . . . . . . PAGE 5INVOLVEMENT ACHIEVEMENTS . . . . . . PAGE 6FINE ARTS ACHIEVEMENTS . . . . . . . . . PAGE 7ATHLETICS ACHIEVEMENTS. . . . . . . . . PAGE 8PERSONNEL ACHIEVEMENTS . . . . . . . . PAGE 9PROFILE OF A LEARNER . . . . . . . . . PAGE 10FOUNDATION AT WORK . . . . . . . . . . . PAGE 12

93%

2015 GRADUATES

COLLEGE-BOUND(Photos by Mark Humphries)

AHISD 2015 Repor t — 2 — tweet: Alamo Heights ISD @AHISD

SOME UNIVERSITIES ATTENDED BY THE CLASS OF 2015:Arizona State University, Auburn University, Baylor University, Brown University, Colorado State University, Duke University, Embry-Riddle Aeronautical University, John Hopkins University, Massachusetts Institute of Technology, Pepperdine University, Rhodes College, Rice University, Sarah Lawrence College, Southern Methodist University, St. Edwards University, Texas A&M University, Texas State University, Texas Tech University, Trinity University, Tulane University, UCLA, University of Colorado, University of Incarnate Word, University of Mississippi, University of New Mexico, University of Oklahoma, University of Pennsylvania, University of Texas, UTSA, University of the South, Sewanee, University of Wisconsin, Vanderbilt University, Wake Forest University, USC, Washington & Lee University

TOTAL SCHOLARSHIPS OFFERED TO 2015 AHHS GRADUATES: $8,660,161

AP & GRADUATION PROFILESADVANCE PLACEMENT (AP) SCORE COMPARISON, 2009-2015Year Total Tests Number of Number of AP Tests Taken AH Testers that AH Students Scored 3 or Better

2015 933 535 6442014 957 551 701

2013 1,011 567 670

2012 1,113 604 722

2011 994 567 660

2010 957 508 697

2009 875 458 630

SOME UNIVERSITIES ATTENDED BY THE CLASS OF 2015:

GRADUATION PROFILE

2015 GRADUATING CLASS . . . . . . . . . . . . 363

ATTENDING FOUR-YEAR COLLEGE/

UNIVERSITY . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 58%

ATTENDING TWO-YEAR COLLEGE . . . . . . .35%

ATTENDING COLLEGE OUT-OF-STATE . . . 42%

UNDECIDED . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 0%

ENTERING WORKFORCE . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 6%

MILITARY SERVICE . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 1%

NUMBER IN 2015 GRADUATING CLASS DOES NOT

ACCOUNT FOR SUMMER GRADUATES.

93% GRADUATION RATE

AP® SCHOLAR AWARDSNUMBER OF AP TESTS TAKEN . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 933NUMBER OF STUDENTS TAKING AP TESTS . . . . . . . . . . . 535NUMBER OF STUDENTS EARNING 3+ . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 644It is particularly noteworthy that 176 students at Alamo Heights High School have earned the designation of AP Scholar by the College Board in recognition of their exceptional achievement on college-level Advanced Placement Program® (AP) Exams. To earn this recognition, students needed to take and pass at least three AP exams. High school students took AP exams in May 2015 after completing challenging college-level courses at the high school.

Alamo Heights High School is accredited by the Texas Education Agency, The Texas Association for College Admission Counseling, The National Association for College Admission Counseling and the College Board.

— 3 — www.AHISD.net

NATIONAL MERIT SCHOLARS:

The National Merit® Scholarship Program is an academic competition for recognition and scholarships. Alamo Heights High School students who have been recognized and honored for their academic achievements by the National Merit Scholarship Program include: NATIONAL MERIT SEMI-FINALISTS: Edward Kershner and Benjamin Kurzban; NATIONAL MERIT COMMENDED: Sarah Berton, Christopher Friedrichs, Edward Kershner, Benjamin Kurzban, Chase Miller, Matthew Parker, Noah Perloff, Derek Stone and Casey Young; NATIONAL HISPANIC SCHOLARS: Valeria Cortez, Benjamin Kurzban, Rosalia O’Brien, Christian Olson, Hannah Ortega, Nikolas Rodriguez, Ricardo Tamez and Casey Young.

SAT/ACT SCORES Over the past 23 years, Alamo Heights SAT scores have increased significantly in spite of the fact that a greater percentage of students take the SAT. Admissions offices throughout the nation know that an AHISD graduate has had an excellent preparation for college work.

SAT MEAN SCORES

Year Critical Reading Math Writing AHHS Avg Natl Avg # Tested (AH)

2015 546 554 528 1,646 1,490 296

ACT MEAN COMPOSITE SCORES

Year Texas Avg AHHS Avg Natl Avg # Tested (AH)

2015 20.9 24.5 21.0 223

21.8

22.4

22.7

23.2

24.1

22.3

23

23.8

23.6

24

24.6

24.2 24.2

23.9

24.7

21 21 2120.8 20.9 20.8

20.920.8

21.221.1 21 21 21.1

20.921.1

2013

2012

2011

2010

2009

2008

2007

2006

2005

2004

2003

2002

2001

2000

1999

AHHS

National

ACT MEAN SCORES24.7

21

2014

21

2015

24.5

NATIONAL MERIT SCHOLARS:

NATIONAL MERIT SCHOLARSHIP PROGRAM

Semi Finalists . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2

Commended . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 9

National Hispanic Students . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 8

AHISD 2015 Repor t — 4 — tweet: Alamo Heights ISD @AHISD

ANNUAL 2015 REPORT ACCOUNTABILITY SUMMARYIn 2009, the Texas Legislature passed House Bill 5 mandating the creation of an entirely new accountability system focused on the achievement of postsecondary readiness for all Texas public school students. As a result, accountability ratings are now based on the evaluation of four performance indexes—Student Achievement, Student Progress, Closing Performance Gaps, and Postsecondary Readiness.

The indexes include assessment results from the State of Texas Assessments of Academic Readiness (STAAR) testing program, graduation rates, and rates of students achieving the Recommended High School Program and Distinguished Achievement (Advanced) High School Program.

HB 5 also included a local evaluation requirement that is frequently referred to as the community engagement component. The community engagement requirement is an opportunity for districts to showcase areas of excellence and success as well as recognize areas in need of improvement and set future goals valued in the community.

The statute requires each district to evaluate and designate a performance rating for the district and each of its campuses in the district based on criteria set by a local committee. The law requires that each district and each campus be assigned a rating of exemplary, recognized, acceptable, or unacceptable. The statute provides nine factors for which the district and each campus must be evaluated. Each district must use criteria set by a local committee to evaluate the districts and campuses performance under each of the first 8 categories (exemplary, recognized, acceptable, or unacceptable) and provide an answer (yes or no) for the compliance category.

DISTRICT ACCOUNTABILITY RATING:

Target Score Standards Met

CAMPUS ACCOUNTABILITY RATINGS:

ALAMO HEIGHTS HIGH SCHOOLOverall: Target Score Standards Met• Student Achievement• Student Progress• Closing Performance Gaps• Postsecondary Readiness (rated at HS only) Distinction:Academic Achievement in Reading/ELAAcademic Achievement in MathPostsecondary Readiness

ALAMO HEIGHTS JUNIOR SCHOOLOverall: Target Score Standards Met• Student Achievement• Student Progress• Closing Performance Gaps

CAMBRIDGE ELEMENTARY SCHOOLOverall: Target Score Standards Met• Student Achievement• Student Progress• Closing Performance Gaps

WOODRIDGE ELEMENTARY SCHOOLOverall: Target Score Standards Met• Student Achievement• Student Progress• Closing Performance Gaps

• Postsecondary Readiness (rated at HS only) • Postsecondary Readiness (rated at HS only)

OVERALL RATING FOR PERFORMANCE IN COMMUNITY ENGAGEMENTCATEGORY RATINGFINE ARTS . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . EXEMPLARYWELLNESS & PHYSICAL EDUCATION . . . . EXEMPLARYCOMMUNITY & PARENTAL INVOLVEMENT . EXEMPLARY21ST CENTURY WORKFORCE DEVELOPMENT . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . EXEMPLARYSECOND LANGUAGE ACQUISITION . . . . RECOGNIZEDDIGITAL LEARNING ENVIRONMENT . . RECOGNIZEDDROPOUT PREVENTION . . . . . . . . . . . . EXEMPLARYGIFTED & TALENTED EDUCATION . . . . RECOGNIZEDCOMPLIANCE . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . EXEMPLARYFOR DETAILS OF PERFORMANCE MEASURES AND DATA

COLLECTED, PLEASE REFER TO THE ENTIRE REPORT LOCATED ON THE DISTRICT WEBSITE AT AHISD.NET.

(Photos by Mark Humphries)

— 5 — www.AHISD.net

STUDENT ACADEMIC ACCOMPLISHMENTSALAMO HEIGHTS HIGH SCHOOL

NATIONAL MERIT SCHOLARS: SEMI-FINALISTS (2): Edward Kershner and Benjamin Kurzban; COMMENDED (9): Sarah Berton, Christopher Friedrichs, Edward Kershner, Benjamin Kurzban, Chase Miller, Matthew Parker, Noah Perloff, Derek Stone and Casey Young; NATIONAL HISPANIC SCHOLARS (8): Valeria Cortez, Benjamin Kurzban, Rosalia O’Brien, Christian Olson, Hannah Ortega, Nikolas Rodriguez, Ricardo Tamez and Casey Young.

ALAMO HEIGHTS JUNIOR SCHOOL

THE DUKE UNIVERSITY TALENT IDENTIFICATION PROGRAM (DUKE TIP) is a nonprofit organization dedicated to serving academically gifted and talented youth. The honorees include: GRAND RECOGNITION: Blake Emerson Price, Christopher Lloyd and Savannah Schoenbaum; STATE RECOGNITION: Joseph Aceves, Sarah Buttram, Blake Emerson Price, Matthew Friedrichs, Heidi Hill, Zoe Hinshaw, Christopher Lloyd, Josephine McGarraugh, Adam Parker, Amelia Meissner, James Patterson, Carlos Rosado, Elizabeth Sanders and Savannah Schoenbaum.

STUDENT ACADEMIC

Alamo Heights ISD provides an exemplary

academic experience for students,

recognized nationally as one of the

1%

of high schools in the na

tion for college

preparation. However, it is the

overall

experience, including clubs, ath

letics,

fine arts, JROTC, leadership opport

unities,

and community service that adds to the

academic experience to ensure o

ur students

are well-rounded people. Here are just a f

ew

of the top honors or 2015

. For a complete

listing of student accomplishments, visit us

on the web at www.ahisd.net. ALAMO HEIGHTS HIGH SCHOOL

ALAMO HEIGHTS HIGH SCHOOL’S ROCKETRY PROGRAM: Honored by SystemsGo with the DIAMOND GODDARD AWARD for success with their annual rocket builds and launches, including the expansion of the program at AHHS. Additionally, the program was featured in Texas School Business Magazine’s annual Bragging Rights issue as an outstanding program in Texas.

WOODRIDGE ELEMENTARY SCHOOL

DESTINATION IMAGINATION PROGRAM: DI Global Finals 2015: 3rd place (1st in the western world) “The Brainy Bunch”; Challenge: The Improv Games; Team Manager: Jan Takac; Team Members: Zander Takac, Leo Saulmon, Taylor Allison, Kathleen Benson, Robin Giles, Eleanor Anderson

ART CONTEST: Woodridge Elementary’s Itchetl Ruiz was named the Grand Prize Winner of $10,000 in the District 10 Texas Cavalier River Parade Art Contest.

AHISD 2015 Repor t — 6 — tweet: Alamo Heights ISD @AHISD

ALAMO HEIGHTS HIGH SCHOOL

AHHS special needs students implemented the national, “Project Unify” program locally this year. The mission of “Project Unify” was to foster a school environment where all students felt welcome and safe to be themselves. Students worked on several projects throughout the year and presented two inclusive plays to the AHHS student body and community.

A unified cast and crew of students with and without disabilities performed in both shows and was student-led, under the direction AHHS seniors.

For many years, Alamo Heights students have created and encouraged opportunities for inclusiveness for students with special needs through their participation as peer tutors, support of Special Olympics, sharing in fund-raising efforts for the teams, extra-curricular support and more.

Earlier in the year, these same students launched the local version of “Erase the R Word” campaign, holding a Pep Rally in support of all athletes, including our Special Olympians. The entire student body was given an “Erase the R Word” t-shirt to wear on rally day and the entire event was branded with the message. The students worked collaboratively with the AHHS Student Council to promote the event and the message that provides a greater understanding of inclusion.

To watch the companion “My School, Too!” video story, visit Alamo Heights Mules on YouTube.

CAMBRIDGE ELEMENTARY SCHOOL

Paul Eguia created and implemented the “Green Light Foods Challenge” through his leadership as a student ambassador with the San Antonio Mayor’s Fitness Council. In his work, Eguia challenged his fellow classmates to try 37 new fruits and vegetables, while improving their physical activity during school. News of his innovation and success was shared throughout the state and Eguia earned the Michael & Susan Dell’s Center for Healthy Living Junior Rising Star Award.

STUDENT INVOLVEMENT ACCOMPLISHMENTS

ALAMO HEIGHTS JUNIOR SCHOOL

Earth Day Lesson: Junior School students support Strings Program by purchasing plants from their fundraiser and using them to enhance the campus.

CAMBRIDGE & WOODRIDGE ELEMENTARY SCHOOLS

AHISD is committed to building the character of all of our students. We believe that it is important to provide many of these opportunities within a school day. As a result, our lessons may include an element of service learning with external connections to our community.

Cambridge Elementary students reached out to our neighbors in the Texas Hill Country after the devastating floods of Memorial Day Weekend, donating almost $1,300 to the American Red Cross.

Woodridge Elementary students donated hundreds of stuffed animals to the Alamo Heights Fire Department for distribution and use in emergency situations when children have lost their toys and belongings in a fire.

— 7 — www.AHISD.net

STUDENT FINE ARTS ACCOMPLISHMENTSALAMO HEIGHTS HIGH SCHOOL

AHHS band, choir, orchestra and theater students work collaboratively to produce the musical, “Into the Woods.”

Throughout the year, students work on their specific craft, acquiring new skills and refining their talents, in preparation for district, regional and state competitions and performances.

Fine Arts directors seek numerous outside activities to showcase student talent.

For more Student and Personnel Accomplishments & Accolades please visit www.ahisd.net

(Photos by Mark Humphries)

AHISD 2015 Repor t — 8 — tweet: Alamo Heights ISD @AHISD

STUDENT ATHLETICS ACCOMPLISHMENTSALAMO HEIGHTS HIGH SCHOOL

LONESTAR CUP: Alamo Heights High School is consistently ranked in the state in the prestigious Lone Star Cup competition, which measures success in all UIL activities, including fine arts, academic competitions and sports.

ALAMO HEIGHTS JUNIOR SCHOOL:

Brian Yancelson, Sports Illustrated Kids Reporter, shares his writing talents nationally, featuring stories with Cal Ripken, the San Antonio Spurs, Mayor Ivy Taylor, UTSA Sports program and Marathon Kids.

TENNIS: UIL 5A State Girls Doubles Tennis Champs, Solene Crawley (on the left) and Brittney Wilbur (on the right). (Photo by Mary

Candee)

CROSS COUNTRY: Abby Gray earned the gold medal in the 3200 and 1600 event at state in May, returning in the fall to earn the title of Class 5-A Girls Cross Country Champion, her third gold medal. Abby competed in the rain and mud at the Nike Cross Country Regionals, earning 2nd Place, qualifying for the National Championship in Portland, Oregon, where she finished 21st out of 197 in the nation, qualifying her as an All American. A week later, Abby headed to San Diego and won 18th Place in the Foot Locker Nationals. Abby has signed with the University of Arkansas.

SWIMMING: Ellery Parish was named two-time 2015 High School All-American in Swimming in the 200 & 500 Freestyle. Sine Scribbick is an Olympic Trial Qualifier in Diving.

BASEBALL: Alamo Heights High School’s Mules Baseball Team went deep into the playoffs this year, advancing to the semifinals. The team had an amazing season and was ranked as one of the Top Five teams in the state! The team also earned the Army Team of the Week Award sponsored by

the U.S. Army and TSRN Sports Radio Network. Team member Forrest Whitley earned a spot on the USA National Team and the opportunity to play in the Baseball World Cup, sharing his talents as a pitcher to help his team win the gold medal. (Photo by San Antonio

Express-News)

SOCCER: Boys Varsity Soccer Coach Bruce Fink was inducted into the Texas Association of Soccer Coaches Hall of Fame for his lifetime commitment to students. (Photo-Bruce Fink Hall of Fame)

Both the Boys and Girls varsity soccer teams had undefeated seasons in 2015, with both enjoying playoff runs.

For more Student and Personnel Accomplishments & Accolades please visit www.ahisd.net

— 9 — www.AHISD.net

PERSONNEL ACCOMPLISHMENTS

AHISD teachers Colin Lang and Alma Gonzalez were named finalists in the 2015 HEB Excellence in Education Awards. AHHS’s Lang was named a finalist in the statewide competition in the area of Educational Leadership for his amazing work in the Rocketry Program. This award honors teachers with 10 to 20 years in the classroom. Woodridge Elementary’s Gonzalez was named a finalist in the area of Lifetime Achievement for her outstanding career and exceptional involvement in the educational lives of her children. This award salutes teachers with more than 20 years of experience.

Alamo Heights ISD Superintendent of Schools, Dr. Kevin Brown, was named the Superintendent of the Year (SOTY) by Region 20 Education Service Center. The Texas Association of School Administrators named Brown one of the top five superintendents’ in the state.

Alamo Heights High School Spanish Teacher Ann Mar was awarded the 2015 James F. Veninga Outstanding Teaching of the Humanities Award. Mar received a $5,000 cash award, with an additional $500 for her school to purchase humanities-based instructional materials.

A&M University named Alamo Heights ISD as the Outstanding School District in Texas. The district was recognized on November 11 in College Station.

AHJS’s Bob Haak was named the AHISD Teacher of the Year and Finalist for the prestigious, Trinity Prize for Excellence in Teaching.

Haak believes that one should never give up on a student, and that being engaged with students helps them develop a strong sense of self-worth. He tries to see the positive in each person and be true to his words to create an atmosphere of trust; traits he learned from his teachers, traits that he emulates beautifully in his classroom. It is one of the reasons his students share that they love his class!

by Region

Administrators named Brown one of the top five superintendents’

School Spanish Teacher

BRAGGING RIGHTS

TOP 1% OF HIGH SCHOOLS IN THE U.S.

(NEWSWEEK MAGAZINE)

TOP 5 SCHOOL DISTRICT IN TEXAS,

H-E-B EXCELLENCE IN EDUCATION

AWARD

TOP 10 SCHOOL DISTRICT IN TEXAS

(OUT OF 1,024) (NICHE.COM)

TOP SCHOOL DISTRICT IN THE REGION

(SAN ANTONIO EXPRESS-NEWS READER’S CHOICE AWARD)

AHISD 2015 Repor t —10 — tweet: Alamo Heights ISD @AHISD

PLANNING FOR THE FUTUREFORWARD FOCUS, STUDENT FACING

For years the motto of Alamo Heights ISD has been “a tradition of excellence.” In the 2008-2009 school year, student performance was strong, parent support was high, the school culture was healthy, and a new Superintendent was named. The Board of Trustees thought it was an opportune time to revisit who we are as a district and what we want to be, so the district launched a strategic planning process to chart our vision for the future.

Core beliefs and a mission statement were created, followed by a vision and six strategies to provide direction. Teachers, parents, community members, and students volunteered to serve on one of six action teams, one for each strategy. These teams met over 30 hours for 4 months to develop draft action plans.

The entire scope of the action plans in this strategic plan represented five year’s worth of work. Action plans fell into either one of five years based upon urgency, manageability, cost, and positive impact on achieving the mission. Each year, the strategic planning team reconvened for annual updates to check progress and to reassess action plans.

ANALYSIS OF 2009 STRATEGIC PLANNING PROCESS

This process had significant impacts on our district: opening enrollment in AP classes, eliminating barriers for children with Autism Spectrum disorders or children and families who speak Spanish, extending access to after school programs, enhancing course offerings for high school students in response to their interests, listening regularly to student and parent voices in course surveys, and a first in the area Wellness Counselor who deals primarily with drug and alcohol issues.

Beyond the concrete items, there are intangible impacts, too. First, a vision for our district provided clarity for our direction and it infused our daily work with meaning.

Second, the process strongly unified us around a common vision. The collaboration required in the process, including 30 key community members first, then over 250 community members later, created shared ownership of the vision and the direction of our district.

Third, the process transformed us in important ways. Now, we have a more pronounced emphasis on equity of access for all, including dimensions of special needs, language, ethnicity,

and socioeconomic status. Now, we talk about and address formerly taboo subjects like drug and alcohol abuse. Now, we define excellence for children in terms of engagement in rich experiences and inspiration for life as opposed to the rat race of achievement defined so narrowly in terms of academics.

DESCRIPTION OF 2016 PROFILE OF THE LEARNER

Even though the 2008-2009 strategic plan had significant impact on the district, there were items that we needed to address. The 2008-2009 process transformed our organization and the way we, the adults, did things, and it yielded important results for our students. It transformed the way we did things, but our vision of students in particular was not transformed. For the most part, we walked past a specific discussion of 21st century learning skills, like creativity, critical thinking, communication, and collaboration. Now, it is time for us to make our vision more student-facing and provide a level of precision that will spur transformation in the classroom experience of students.

We are now developing the profile of a learner so that we can visualize what a student will become as a result of the experiences we offer in our district. As a school community, the clearer we are about that, the more specifically we can target - or change - if needed - our actions in the classroom to create model experiences for our students. (Photos by Mark Humphries)

THINK CRITICALLY AND CREATIVELY

• Approach the world and others objectively

• Evaluate evidence and question assumptions

• Challenge existing mindsets and ways

of thinking

• Identify, frame and solve multidimensional

problems

— 11 — www.AHISD.net

SEEK KNOWLEDGE AND

UNDERSTANDING

• Exhibit intellectual curiosity

• Master a broad, rich curriculum

• Actively construct and demonstrate

knowledge and skills

• Inherently value their own learning

• Nurture lifelong enthusiasm for learning

• Maximize resources to expand their

learning environment

•

•

•

DEVELOP A HEALTHY SENSE OF SELF • Engage in self-reflection to understand one’s personal strengths and unique gifts• Recognize and address personal needs

and challenges

• Make thoughtful choices that cultivate fulfillment and a balanced life

• Take responsibility for personal choices, actions and mistakes

• Develop and nurture healthy, loving relationships

• Live a physically healthy life• Openly express themselves with humility

and vulnerability

COMMUNICATE AND COLLABORATE • Speak and write with clarity and purpose• Graciously give and receive constructive feedback

• Listen compassionately to support others • Listen to decipher meaning • Assume shared responsibility in collaborative work• Value the contributions of others• Balance individual goals with group goals • Work flexibly as leaders and contributors

THINK CRITICALLY AND CREATIVELY

• Approach the world and others objectively

• Evaluate evidence and question assumptions

•

•

ENGAGE SOCIALLY AND GLOBALLY

• Model a spirit of mutual respect for all

• Understand their relationship and

responsibility to society

• Value diversity as a strength

• Understand and engage in local, national

and global issues

• Exhibit responsible digital citizenship

• Communicate effectively in more than

one language

• Add value to the world through service

EMPLOY SKILLS FOR LIFE

• Develop strong work ethic and exhibit

professionalism

• Take risks, accept challenges and value the

learning that comes from failure

• Demonstrate adaptability and flexibility in

an ever-changing world

• Apply learning to real-world situations

• Effectively manage time, assess progress

and evaluate results

• Display grit and resilience in the face

of challenge

• Exhibit exceptional character

ALAMO HEIGHTS

LEARNERS:

AHISD 2015 Repor t —12 — tweet: Alamo Heights ISD @AHISD

ENDOWED FUNDSThe Foundation’s General Endowment was created in the fall of 2002 with the goal of obtaining long-term financial security for AHISD in support of the District’s programs. Currently, the General Endowment provides the annual salary for the Teacher for Academic Excellence in Science that was established in 2007 to provide distinguished students at the secondary level advanced opportunities in science education. Activities include internships in various science laboratories, independent studies, special projects, and participation in professional science conferences. Ron Malasky, AHHS Science Department Chair holds this position.

Rob Boldrick Memorial Fund was established in 1991 in memory of Rob Boldrick, 1974 Alamo Heights graduate to support teachers whose study, training, or program development will help students with a penchant for academic achievement; and those interested in careers in science, mathematics, and language arts. Two grants were funded through the 2014-2015 Rob Boldrick Award: helped fund “The effects of film and other authentic media on student motivation and second language learning” training for the AHHS Spanish Department.

Glenn R. and Sally P. Ramsdell Fund was established in 2007 to fund a teaching position in English at the high school. The position of the Glenn R. and Sally P. Ramsdell Memorial Chair in English is filled with a highly creative, enthusiastic educator whose primary task is to nurture excitement among students for literary pursuits. Laura Davenport currently holds this position.

Faye Langley Cowden Chair for Elementary Education was established in 1994. Mrs. Cowden, a 1930 graduate of Alamo Heights and former teacher, established the endowment as a commitment to continued excellence in AHISD elementary schools. Charlotte Dolat currently holds this position.

The AHISD Wellness Coordinator established in 2009, is solely funded through Foundation gifts in support of providing a trained professional to coordinate a program focused on the social and emotional issues of students across all AHISD schools. Michelli Ramon serves as the District’s Wellness Coordinator.

The Caroline Gose Fund was established in memory of Caroline Gose, a 2003 Alamo Heights graduate, to support a joint student-faculty project benefiting the High School and the Alamo Heights community in the areas of journalism, theater or community service. 2014-2015 Recipients: Interact Club’s Trip to the North Pole benefiting terminally ill children; Birthdays for Hope benefiting the residents of Haven for Hope; and Chain Reaction inspiring students to have a positive attitude, model impeccable character and promote anti- bullying awareness.

The Graham Ladenshohn Memorial Lecture Series was established in 1991, in memory of Graham Ladensohn, who loved his teachers. The Graham Ladensohn Memorial Lecture Series brings inspirational and educational speakers to the Alamo Heights Independent School District for faculty and the community. 2015 Lecturer: Dr. Judy Willis.

The Martha Spoor Young Writers Fund was established in honor of Martha Spoor, a 1987 graduate of AHHS and an English teacher for 14 years at Alamo Heights Junior School. Her goal was to instill in young people the ability to express themselves in their writing through the use of critical thinking and creativity. The fund supports a week long summer writing workshop for 7th and 8th graders in the district.

The Charles Urschel Guenther Theater Arts Fund was established in 2008 in memory of Charles Guenther, a 1983 graduate who loved providing technical assistance for AHHS dramatic productions. The fund assists the high school Theater Arts Department with its theatrical productions.

The Ida M. Kennedy Fund was established in memory of Mrs. Kennedy, a math teacher at Alamo Heights Junior School. She is remembered for her ability to inspire her students, individualize her curriculum, and encourage academic excellence for her students. She provided additional leadership by sponsoring the National Junior Honor Society.

The Johnnie Eng Fund was established upon his retirement in 2003 to honor the impact Mr. Eng had on the lives of his students and colleagues. As a result of the Johnnie Eng Fund, English teachers from AHHS attend “Laying the Foundation” training to increase rigor for grade level English classes. Teachers attend: AP Summer Institutes, National Junior Classical League Convention, American Classical League Institute, ACTFL Training and certification, and Master Degree in Spanish Language Teaching.

Paul A. Foerster Math Fund was established in 2011 in support of Paul Foerster’s 50 years of teaching at Alamo Heights High School. These funds will provide support to the math teachers for professional development, memberships, speakers, training and release time for mentoring.The Shine Bright Fund was established in 2011 in memory of Sarah Chidgey Hughes, an elementary school teacher, and in honor of her mother, Denise Chidgey, who taught for over 30 years at Woodridge. When the fund matures, it will be used to support instruction and inspire teachers

The Reid Hallman Kelley Memorial Fund was established in 2014 in memory of Reid Hallman Kelley, a seventh grader at Alamo Heights Junior School, who passed away in September 2013. Reid, a bright and dedicated student, had a particular interest in science and technology, and aspired to someday study engineering. The fund will be used to enrich opportunities for students at AHJS to achieve academic excellence in science to help improve facilities and equipment of the science classrooms, and to support training and education of the AHJS science teachers.

AS PART OF ITS COMMITMENT, THE ALAMO HEIGHTS SCHOOL FOUNDATION HAS PROVIDED $250,000 TO THE DISTRICT TO BRIDGE THE FUNDING GAP CREATED BY CUTS TO TEACHER SALARIES AND POSITIONS. THROUGH ITS ENDOWMENT, THE FOUNDATION ANTICIPATES THE SCHOOL DISTRICT’S EDUCATIONAL FUTURE THROUGH VARIOUS ENDOWED POSITIONS AND PROGRAMS SUCH AS THOSE THAT ARE LISTED.

THE ALAMO HEIGHTS SCHOOL FOUNDATION HAS ITS ORIGIN IN THE CREATION AND ADMINISTRATION OF ACADEMIC SCHOLARSHIPS. FOR THE 2013-2014 ACADEMIC YEAR, $36,050 WAS AWARDED IN SCHOLARSHIPS TO AHHS GRADUATES.

SCHOLARSHIPSThe Bob Ware Memorial Scholarship was established in 1975 to award scholarships to AHISD seniors whose achievements are above expectations and are involved in extra-curricular activities at AHHS 2015 Recipient: John Bartell Zachry, Jr

The Oma E. Vordenbaum Scholarship was established in 1977 for AHHS graduating seniors who seek higher education. Recipients exemplify many of the qualities that Mrs. Vordenbaum modeled and valued in others, including intellectual curiosity, a love of learning, perseverance and purposefulness, sincerity, trustworthiness, unselfishness, neatness in work and appearance, and respect for others. 2015 Recipients: Ellen Dyer and Alicen Flores

The W. W. and Anna May Campbell Scholarship was established in 1985 to provide scholarships for AHHS graduates who plan to attend state or other publicly supported schools and who are sophomores or above in class standing. Recipients of the Campbell Scholarships are selected based on scholastic ability and financial need. 2015 Recipients: Josh Armstrong, Abigail Gay, Austin Gay, Jared Hargrove, Greyson Kale, Mitchell Katona, Jonathan Meyer, Megan Spalten, Colin Sturrock, and Victoria Young

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THE FOUNDATION’S MOST EXCITING AND FUN EVENT IS THE PRIZE POSSE THAT RIDES EVERY NOVEMBER TO AWARD GRANTS TO AHISD TEACHERS FOR SPECIAL PROJECTS, MATERIALS, BOOKS AND OTHER INSTRUCTIONAL NEEDS.

GRANTS TO EDUCATORSALAMO HEIGHTS HIGH SCHOOL

Aeroscience Studies

Smartboard for Interactive Design in Aerospace Studies

FACES Forensic “Composite Sketch” Software

Smartboards for English

High-Performance Telescope

Zebrafish Genetics and Genomics Experimentation

Electromagnetic and Mechanical Waves Lab Supplies

Human Skeletons for Art

Classical Guitars for Music

ALAMO HEIGHTS JUNIOR SCHOOL

Dissection Tools and Specimens for 7th grade Science

Smartboards for 6th & 7th grade English

TI84 Calculators and TI Smartview Software

Mules Maker Space, an innovative hands-on learning commons area

FLEX Curriculum Enrichment & Intervention Program

World Cultures Alive Smartboard software for 6th grade

French Matters: Classroom enhancement materials

CAMBRIDGE ELEMENTARY

Dabbling in Drawing – books and resources for Art

Growing a Generation of Readers with Playaway devices

Guitars and ChordBuddy, Jr. devices for Music

“Turn it up and Tune it in” - Soundfield System Istation

WOODRIDGE ELEMENTARY

Learning to Read with Confidence: Start-to-Finish Book Series for Dyslexia Students

Literacy Learning Intervention Blue Kits

Literacy Learning Intervention Orange Kits

Replacing Old Instruments – 5 Xylophones

Smart boards for 4th grade math and science classrooms

Istation

HOWARD EARLY CHILDHOOD CENTER

AV2 Media Enhanced Books

Scholastic BookFlix Subscription

3 Smart Boards Istation

ROBBINS ACADEMY & EDC

Blue and Gold Garden

Robbins Academy Race to Space

CAMBRIDGE & WOODRIDGE

Walk, Listen & Learn: A Healthier You – WalkKits for Walking Classroom

EV3 Robots

JOINT

Libraries e-Volve for our 21st Century Readers – e-books for all campuses

2014-2015 FOUNDATION GIFTS OF SUPPORT TO AHISDGRANT FOR TEACHER SALARIES . . . . . $250,000GRANTS TO EDUCATORS . . . . . . . . . . . $149,075CORPORATE PARTNERSHIP PROGRAM . . $70,404AHISD WELLNESS PROGRAM . . . . . . . . . .$75,000GLEN R. AND SALLY P. RAMSDELL CHAIR IN ENGLISH . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .$73,862TEACHER FOR ACADEMIC EXCELLENCE IN SCIENCE . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .$50,000FAYE LANGLEY COWDEN CHAIR FOR ELEMENTARY EDUCATION . . . . . . .$11,558HEIGHTS HEROES . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . $2,500OTHER ENDOWED FUNDS . . . . . . . . . . . . $28,219ADDITIONAL GRANTS . . . . . . . . . . . . . $56,750SCHOLARSHIPS . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . $34,050TOTAL . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . $801,418

GLEN RCHAIR IN ENGLISHTEACHER FOR ACADEMIC EXCELLENCE IN SCIENCEFAYE LANGLEY COWDEN CHAIR FOR ELEMENTARY EDUCATION

Robbins Academy Race to Space

For more info about the AH

School Foundation please visit

www.ahschoolfoundation.org/

ALAMO HE IGHTS ISD7101 BroadwaySan Anton io , TX 78209

Non-Pro�t OrganizationU.S. Postage

PAIDPermit No. 1305

San Antonio, Texas