Aisd Magazine january 2015

January 2015

Honored To Be Part Of The AISD

Insight: The AISD Programs You Need to Know About... Rachel Cruze “Smart Money”

GrandPrairieFord

701 East Palace ParkwayGrand Prairie, TX 75050 866-262-5039

2 Arlington School & Family - January 2015

EXECUTIVE BOARD

CEOJeffrey Levy

COOPat Fowler

EDITORIAL

EditorBecky St.VigneLeanne Rand

Style EditorAmy Levy

Lead DesignerChad Murphy

Assistant DesignersJason ShupeErik Peterson

ACCOUNT SALES

Sales ManagersChristine Grudecki

Chris StoryDenise Dyer

Business ManagersNikki MasgaJane White

PRODUCTION

Production DirectorKari Wenner

Production ManagerPaige Hodges

ARLINGTON ISD CONTACTS

SuperintendentDr. Marcelo Cavazos

Director of CommunicationsLeslie Johnston

Communications CoordinatorMercedes Mayer

CONTACT INFORMATION

General Questions/[email protected]

Artwork and [email protected]

[email protected]

Arlington School & Family MagazineEF Pages LLC.

404 W. Kennedale PkwyKennedale, Texas 76060

Phone - 214-728-8349 Fax - 817–330-0314

Highlights6-StorytimeThrough funding from the Texas Literacy Initiative Grants, the Arlington Public Library has teamed up with AISD Community Childcare Centers bringing storytimes to Pre-K students at 15 schools across Arlington.

9-Lockheed MartinSupporting AISD Engineering Internship Program.

12-STEM Career PathwaysGM Foundation provides grants to schools in order to help foster students learning and development and help prepare them for the real world.

21-Fuel Up To Play 60See how the Dallas Cowboys partner with Dairy Max to present a $10,000 grant to Fitzgerald Elementary in a fun way.

24-New Principals & Assistant PrincipalsEight schools will receive new principals and assistant principals. See who has been named and take a look at their profiles.

32-This Month’s Outstanding TeacherSee how this one-of-a-kind choir teacher goes above and beyond. A passion for teaching that sticks with students forever.

34-Students VolunteerPartnerships between schools and Non-Profit Organizations go far beyond routine schedules. Students gain an opportunity to give back to the community by volunteering at Mission Arlington.

On the CoverAshworth Elementary paid homage to Colonel Prowell who served in Afghanistan and who also presents the Perfect Attendance Award to students at Ashworth every year. Want to know more about Ashworth Elementary and what great things they are doing in the district? Read more on page 18.


District Programs

TARRANT COUNTY COLLEGESOUTHEAST CAMPUS

• TCC offers smaller class sizes, flexible schedules, affordable tuition and more than 70 academic and technical programs from which to choose

• Community and Industry Education for all ages and backgrounds

• Dual Credit classes available for high school students

www.tccd.edu Equal Opportunity/Equal Access Institution

January 2015 - Arlington School & Family 5

As part of their commitment to foster a college-going culture, Tarrant County College Southeast Campus and Arlington Independent School District joined together to open TCC’s new $13 million Tarrant County College Southeast/Arlington ISD Collegiate High School.

TCC and AISD officials were joined by community leaders to officially open the 30,000-square-foot building with a ribbon-cutting ceremony in August 2014. The Early College High School (ECHS) includes nine classrooms, two science laboratories with a preparatory room between them and one computer laboratory. It also includes a learning resource center, a 400-seat cafeteria/auditorium, administrative offices and 250-parking spaces.

As part of the partnership, Texas Trust Credit Union donated $35,000 to help launch the new school and will provide financial education resources and workshops throughout the school year for students, parents and faculty.

The ECHS has the designation of an early college high school by the Texas Education Agency. This designation is for innovative high schools located on or near a college campus that will allow students who are at risk of dropping out of school and likely would not otherwise consider attending college an opportunity to earn a high school diploma and up to 60 college credit hours.

Students have access to Tarrant County College facilities, resources and services, including the faculty, libraries, labs, artistic and cultural activities and extracurricular activities, as appropriate. There is no cost to the student to attend the school. The Arlington ISD will pay for tuition, fees and required textbooks to the extent those charges are not waived by Tarrant County College.

“A clear objective in our strategic plan is for our students to have leading-edge learning experiences, and opening an early college high school certainly helps us to fulfill that goal,” Arlington ISD Superintendent Marcelo Cavazos said.

“A collaboration such as this with our

community partner Tarrant County College is vital to our students’ success and will make a tremendous positive impact on their future.”

This initiative also fulfills part of Tarrant County College’s Vision 2015 Strategic Plan dedicated to supporting student learning and success.

“Starting this early college high school is important to us at Tarrant County College because it aligns with our commitment to develop strategies that improve access to affordable education for all students,” said TCC Chancellor Erma Johnson Hadley. “We have a strong working relationship with the Arlington ISD, so it makes sense that we would launch a partnership to give their students the opportunity to earn college credit while still in high school.”

“This also is critical because research shows that the earlier students are exposed to the rigorous challenges that higher education provides, the better they will perform,” Hadley said.

Texas Trust will also provide graduating seniors from the Arlington Collegiate High School at TCC Southeast Campus class of 2018 who meet certain criteria, including completing an associates degree, a $1,000 scholarship.

“By partnering with AISD’s early college high school, we will be able to equip students with the knowledge and skills to make sound financial decisions throughout their lives,” said Jim Minge, president and CEO of Texas Trust.

“Our goal is to provide the school with the resources and tools to help students and their families build brighter financial futures.”

The first classes began Monday, Aug. 25, 2014. Each fall a maximum of 125 freshmen will be enrolled until the capacity of 500 students is reached in 2018, when this inaugural class of students who meet requirements will graduate with both their high school diplomas and associate degrees. †

TCC and AISD Opened NEW Early College High School


District Programs

Sharing Early Literacy Skills with ParentsWhen it comes to raising a reader, it can be difficult for parents to know where to begin. For parents who may be lacking adequate time or resources, the challenge can feel even greater. The Arlington Public Library recognizes that parents may need help, and has created three programs that provide these individuals with the knowledge and encouragement they need to incorporate early literacy skills into their everyday lives and help their children become confident and capable readers when they enter school.

For parents with a language barrier or concerned that their children are not comfortable enough with English, Early Learning Matters is a workshop series offered at AISD Texas Literacy Initiative (TLI) and United Way-funded elementary schools. Parents with children 0-4-years of age attend a series of sessions with their

“parentsare taught that they are their child’s first and most important teacher”


children that include a storytime; letter and word recognition activities; sorting and problem-solving activities; and songs and rhymes. All of this material is presented in English and Spanish, as the majority of students and parents come from Spanish-speaking homes. Throughout the session, storytime leaders model ways that parents can incorporate literacy activities into their routines, such as asking for the color of a sign in both English and Spanish, or showing how to count the child’s age on their fingers. These sessions not only help the children build their skills, they help parents develop and experience the tools they need to help their children become lifelong readers.

For parents of prekindergarten children who have already started school, the library provides reminders of the services it has available by inviting students from 32 AISD TLI

and United Way elementary schools to the library each fall and spring for a special storytime and tour of the building. Morning and afternoon prekindergarten classes take the bus to the library, where they are then treated to stories, songs, rhymes, and a tour of the library. Prior to the visit, students are sent home with an application for a My First Library card, and those who return it go home with their very own library card at the end of the visit. Students also receive a tote bag with a book, library storytime schedule, and handouts with early literacy tips for parents.

Finally, Life through Literacy is a special program created specifically for teenage parents in the Arlington Public School District. These students are taught that reading, singing, and speaking to their babies will better prepare their children for school and work in the future. Many of these young parents do not know that teaching their children nursery rhymes helps to introduce them to vocabulary and rhythm. Also, encouraging positive experiences with books helps foster a love of reading as the child grows older. The goal of this program is to educate these teen parents on how to teach literacy to their children so that their babies can grow up to be successful.

The Arlington Public Library worked with five different locations in the fall of 2014 to spread the word about how important quality, parent-child literacy time is for babies. During each session, the parents receive a book for their child to add to their home libraries. They are taught how to use the book as a teaching tool, receiving tips such as how to point out colors and sounds to their babies when reading the book together. One of the most important things that these parents are taught is that they are their child’s first and most important teacher, and that even though they are young, they are very capable of teaching literacy to their child. †


District Programs

Taking Storytime Beyond the Walls of the LibraryStorytime is a great way to help young children discover the many joys of books, as well as an opportunity to build early literacy skills in a fun and engaging environment. While many children are fortunate enough to attend storytime at the library, there are many more who miss the chance because they attend childcare while their parents are at work. Recognizing that these children would also benefit from such a program, the Arlington Public Library teamed up with AISD Community Childcare Centers to bring biweekly storytimes to the 3 and 4-year-old prekindergarten students at 15 schools across Arlington.

Thanks to generous funding from the Texas Literacy Initiative Grant, children at these centers receive biweekly visits from library programming staff who present fun and engaging storytimes that incorporate songs, rhymes, puppets, and of course, books. As comprehension increases, staff members

are able to incorporate more challenging materials. Some favorite books during the fall 2014 session were Leonardo the Terrible Monster by Mo Willems, This is Not My Hat by Jon Klassen, Open Very Carefully by Nick Bromley, and the ever popular Pete the Cat by Eric Litwin.

Starting in 2015, iPads with educational apps and ebooks will also be included in this experience to promote digital literacy in the classroom.

These storytimes are also wonderful chances to introduce students to important guests throughout the Arlington community. In October, hundreds of children were mesmerized by the city’s own firefighters, who took turns reading books and singing songs about fire safety.

In an effort to increase the number of books the students read every day, the library started a program called Little Libraries in the fall of 2014. The Little Libraries are small book collections circulated to all the centers as part of the biweekly storytime visits. The goal of the program is to make library books easily accessible for the childcare center educators, who otherwise might be limited by a static classroom collection or little time in which to visit the library on their own. Hundreds of children have benefited from these portable collections, which include titles on a variety of topics.

Along with these programs, childcare center students had the opportunity in December to meet renowned author and illustrator Will Hillenbrand at a private author visit. Leading up to the event, Hillenbrand’s books, such as Spring is Here and Off We Go! were shared in the classrooms. This helped reinforce the power of the writing and illustrating process and may have even inspired students to become future authors and illustrators!

The entire reading experience has been enhanced by the supportive AISD teachers who sing, dance, and participate with the students, to the great appreciation of the storytellers. Although working with over 1,000 students makes it difficult to know them on a personal level, the children greet library staff with continuous warmth and enthusiasm. A few of the students have even gone so far as to scout out the storytime leaders in their natural habitat at the public library – a fun surprise for everyone.

The library continues to assess the early literacy needs of the Arlington community, and looks forward to future possibilities with the childcare center partnerships. †


Engineering Internship Program: Students Soar with Support of Lockheed MartinThe next generation of engineers.

The AISD Engineering Internship Program is proud to have Lockheed Martin as a partner. Seniors in the district can gain hands-on experience in the engineering field with this double-blocked course. This year, five outstanding students are completing a paid internship with Lockheed Martin, which is deeply committed to inspiring the next generation of engineers and creating a pipeline of future talent for their organization.

These students are now taking the knowledge they have acquired through CTE Project Lead the Way (PLTW) courses and applying it in the workplace. Every week, they are provided the opportunity to work alongside engineers who are building and perfecting aircraft for Lockheed Martin.

According to Ami Motsenbocker, the Engineering Internship Coordinator, “The interns in our program are getting an experience as a high school student that college students hope to have as a junior or senior in college. We truly cannot put a price tag on this type of learning opportunity. Internships put you ahead of the game and set students on a pathway to college and career success.” †

Lockheed Martin AISD Engineering Interns pictured left to right: Colton McAfee (Bowie), Benson Phillips (Arlington) Abdallah Shishani (Seguin), Austin Smith (Arlington) and Amy Hughes (Arlington)


District Programs

UT Arlington, Arlington ISD collaborate for STEM AcademyA new partnership between The University of Texas at Arlington and the Arlington Independent School District will offer high school students classroom and enrichment experiences that put them on a path to success in the fields of science, technology, engineering and math.

The new STEM Academy will open in August 2015 at Martin High School, with students from across the district selected the previous spring. When the program is fully implemented, 100 students each from grades 9 through 12 will have the opportunity to choose one of four pathways: engineering, biology/biomedical science, computer science and math/science.

UT Arlington College of Science and College of Engineering faculty and staff will work with instructors at the high school level to align and enhance curriculum in the STEM academy. Junior and seniors in the program will also have opportunities to take dual credit classes that help them meet STEM college requirements before high school graduation and take advantage of off-campus opportunities for innovative learning.

“The STEM Academy is one more step toward an increasingly strong partnership between UT Arlington and one of the state’s largest school districts to create opportunity and to ensure that students are well prepared to succeed in college,” UT Arlington President Vistasp Karbhari said. “Together, we will ignite students’ interest in the world of inquiry, expand their horizons and show them how they can achieve their dreams in the fields of science, engineering and math.”

technology instruction and our focus on preparing our students to excel in higher education or the career of their choice,” Arlington ISD Superintendent Marcelo Cavazos said. “There is a need for more STEM graduates in our country, and we feel strongly about helping students in our district lay the groundwork for a future in the high-demand fields of science, technology, engineering and math.”

UT Arlington and the Arlington school district already collaborate on a number

STEM Academy students also will be able to advance their STEM education outside the classroom with opportunities that include: internships, mentorships, job shadowing, community service, enrichment programs and a summer academy.

“The new STEM Academy will deliver on our commitment to science and

of innovative programs. In 2013, district and campus leaders announced Bound for Success, an early admissions initiative aimed at increasing the number of high-achieving high school students who earn a college degree. UT Arlington also operates GO Centers at Arlington campuses through which University students help high school students, especially those who are the first in their family to attend college, prepare to apply for college admission, scholarships and financial aid.

In recent years, the College of Science also has teamed with Arlington schools in the National Science Foundation-funded GK-12 STEM fellows initiative. That program puts doctoral level math students inside district classrooms to bolster instruction and introduce math research.

Ashley Purgason, assistant dean in the UT Arlington College of Science, said the STEM Academy is an exciting addition to the university’s relationship with area schools. Nationally, less than half of students who enter public universities as STEM majors graduate with a STEM degree. Offering support and encouragement early on could change that, administrators believe.

“Creating better prepared and more engaged high school students in the STEM fields will undoubtedly lead to more successful college students and, ultimately, graduates who will inf luence North Texas and beyond,” Purgason said. “This partnership gives the UT Arlington College of Science and College of Engineering faculty and administrators the opportunity to take an active role in guiding promising students before they even graduate high school.” †

Devin Doyel interned in a UT Arlington lab as a high school student. Others like him will get enrichment and support through the new STEM Academy. -



District Programs

GM Foundation Supports AISDGM’s Arlington Assembly plant, in partnership with the GM Foundation, proudly supports the Arlington Independent School District. With a focus on K-12 STEM education, this partnership has provided funding for programming, training, materials and most importantly role models for students of all ages in this community.

Over the past few years, through multiple GM Foundation donations, and with the volunteering support by the team at GM Arlington Assembly plant, thousands of students in Arlington were able to participate in new educational programs to help foster their learning and development.

We brought the students at Sam Houston High School, The Great Minds In STEM, Viva Technology program through a $25,000 grant from the GM foundation. This national K-12 education program is designed to engage students, teachers and parents with STEM challenges that stimulate their interest in the application of technology and provide STEM-focused career pathways. This program creates awareness, supplies STEM resources and provides access to STEM career pathways.

Capturing children’s attention at a young age in math and science is essential. That’s why the GM Foundation provided a $7,000 donation to Roark Elementary school to establish a Junior Achievement program aimed at helping prepare young people for the real world. Some of the subjects

include showing them how to generate wealth and effectively manage it, how to create jobs which make their communities more robust, and how to apply entrepreneurial thinking to the workplace. Students put these lessons into action and learn the value of contributing to their communities. Working with GM employees students get a hands on approach to problem solving and diversified role models.

With the help a $10,000 donation from the GM Foundation, it was possible to bring the USHLI Student Leadership Series to local area middle schools. The goal of this Student Leadership Series is to ensure that every child has an opportunity to obtain the level of education that is consistent with his or her maximum potential and the opportunity to be successful in life and career. Our objectives are to motivate students to stay in school, improve their academic performance, graduate, and to pursue and successfully complete some level of post-secondary education or training.

In addition to the Student Leadership Series, the GM Foundation also provided a $20,000 grant to bring the LNSEC after School Science Corp Program to Carter Junior High School. During a critical time in their learning and development, Science Corps is a middle school program designed to encourage students’ interest in science, technology, engineering, and mathematics (STEM) fields by exposing them to real world STEM applications and problems. Science Corps curriculum focuses on activity-based modules and sessions led by GM STEM professionals from the Arlington Assembly plant.

Knowing that everyone enjoys a bit of healthy competition, GM employees created the STEM All-star team to recognize AISD students for their high achievement in STEM-related subjects and the many GM employees that have contributed to the awareness of STEM within this community.

The educational support from GM

to the Arlington community also focuses beyond traditional STEM programming and integrates the importance of environmental conservation and wildlife maintenance. In 2014, the GM Foundation also provided a $10,000 grant to create a natural habitat and outdoor classroom that encompasses more than 4 acres of managed wildlife, including an observation deck, nature trail, nesting boxes and wildf lower prairie. The area was certified as a Wildlife at Work and Lands for learning program by the Wildlife Habitat Council.

In addition, the Arlington school district, along with others, were also awarded GM Foundation funding, which supports the GREEN education program in water quality and environmental sciences.

The GM Foundation and Arlington Assembly plant are thrilled to have the opportunity to make such a difference in this vital community, we’re looking forward to a bright and successful 2015.

About the GM Foundation:Since its inception in 1976, the GM Foundation has donated hundreds of millions of dollars to American charities, educational organizations and to disaster relief efforts worldwide. The GM Foundation focuses on supporting Education, Health and Human Services, the Environment and Community Development initiatives, mainly in the communities where GM operates. Funding of the GM Foundation comes solely from GM. The last contribution to the GM Foundation was made in 2001. For more information, visit www.gm.com/gmfoundation. †



District Programs

Rachel Cruze is a seasoned communicator and presenter who has been speaking to groups as large as 10,000 for more than a decade. The daughter of Dave Ramsey, she uses the knowledge and experiences from growing up in the Ramsey household to educate America’s students and young adults on the proper ways to handle money and stay out of debt.

The earlier you teach your kids about money, the better off your kids will be in the long run.

Believe me, I know. As Dave Ramsey’s daughter, I was blessed to be raised by parents who have a healthy view of money. My dad filed bankruptcy when I was a baby then turned his life around when he started taking a biblical view on money.

For me, that meant a healthy dose of learning how to save, give and, yes, even spend. Those are the basics, and that’s all you really need to teach your kids at this point.

So let’s break down these three basics.

Spending: This is the easy one, right? What does your 8-year-old want to do the first time he gets a $10 bill? Spend it all in one place! But that’s where you come in to the picture. Teach your kids this basic principle: When it’s gone, it’s gone!

That’s why I always received a commission, not an allowance, from my parents. With a commission, I got paid when I helped out around the house. An allowance is simply giving money for breathing.

When you give a commission, you’re teaching your kids the connection between money and work. So when they head out to buy something with their money, they’ll think long and hard about how they spend it because they understand what it took to earn that money in the first place.

This applies to kids at any age. Don’t feel like you’re a failure if your kids are in high school and you haven’t been talking to them about spending wisely.

As you talk with them, remember that spending is easy, but disciplined spending takes more practice. Teach your kids how to spend money the right way.

Saving: To save, you need to learn patience. With kids, you’ll benefit by giving them a saving goal to aim for. My parents told me they would match any amount I saved for a nice, used car when I turned 16. They called it the 401Dave plan because of the match. And it worked great!

I was motivated to save because I knew how I would benefit, and thats a lesson that’s stuck with me the rest of my life.

Even if you can’t do a matching plan, think of ways you can incentivize your kids to save at an early age.

If your kid wants a toy or a video game, help them understand how saving will allow them to reach those goals faster.

This will help them see why saving can be fun!

Giving: Giving is what all this is about. When you have a healthy view of money, you understand how important it is to give. The whole reason your kids should learn how to save and spend is so that, one day, they’ll be in a position to give, give, give.

But they shouldn’t be waiting to give. Start now. When I was a kid, I saved 20% of everything I made. So if I got $20 for babysitting, I would stash away $4. I used an envelope, but your kids might find it easier to have three buckets or piggy banks dedicated to spend-ing, saving, and giving. There’s no magic number, so your kids might store away more or less for giving, but the important part is that they learn to give!

And remember, more is caught than taught. So if you aren’t modeling giving in your own life, you can’t expect your kids to grow up to be unselfish givers.My parents could have sat me down and lectured me until I was blue in the face, but none of it would have mattered if they weren’t actually giving themselves to charities, to church and through acts of service in the community.

One of the most important things you can teach your kids is gratitude. And givers, by nature, are grateful people.

Whether your kids are 4 or 18, you still have the opportunity to make a difference in how they view money.

Even if you messed up, you can still be a major influence. Just look at my parents story I mention earlier! What matters most is that you’re making an effort to do things the right way now—no matter what happened in the past.

So take the time to help your kids understand the basic principles of spending, saving and giving. If your son or daughter can graduate from college know-ing these basics, you will put them in a position to win the rest of their lives! †

Three Money Basics Your Kid Needs to Knowby Rachel Cruze

OUR NATIONAL MOVEMENT OF CARING NEEDS YOU! To participate, donate or learn more, visit online at tacklehunger.org.

Who we areSouper Bowl of Caring is a national movement of young people, working together around the time of the Super Bowl football game to

The idea for Souper Bowl of Caring came from this idea: “Even as we enjoy the Super Bowl football game, help us be mindful of those that do not have a bowl of soup to eat.”

What we doOn the weeks leading up to or on Super Bowl Sunday, groups collect dollars and food items for people in need. They give 100% of their donation directly to the local charity of their choice.

Participating groups report their totals to Souper Bowl of Caring, so the nation can follow the collections as they add up and see the impact made by so many small acts of generosity.

How we do itGroups and individuals register to participate online at tacklehunger.org. They receive free materials to promote their collection. They collect. They report their totals before donating 100% to their chosen charity.

Our National Youth Advisory Board is a select group of high school students from across the nation devoting their talents to help the movement grow. Service Blitz encourages participants to volunteer at their chosen charity on the Saturday before Super Bowl Sunday.

Why we do itWe believe hunger and poverty have a negative impact on individuals and the communities in which they live, yet there is joy in serving and giving to those in need.

because they live in food insecure households. (source: feedingamerica.org)

How it helpsIn 2014 more than 7,400 groups participated in Souper Bowl of Caring, collecting more than $8.25 million in dollars and food for local hunger-relief charities.

Since 1990, more than $100 million has been collected for hunger-relief charities across the country.

HOW YOU CAN HELPText TACKLE to 80888 to donate $10 Help our movement continue to grow each year!

TACKLE HUNGERWITH US IN 2015!

JANUARY 19 - FEBRUARY 1, 2015


Student Accomplishments

December 2014 Student of the MonthTeresita Ortiz, Lamar High School

Teresita is a dedicated senior at Lamar High School who is an aspiring nurse and one of the school’s healthcare rotation students. She has spent two years as the secretary for Health Occupation Students of America at Lamar, where she has spent many hours planning and overseeing HOSA activities. Teresita has helped with Viking Fest, the Hospice Healthcare Network food drive, the Heritage Oaks Retirement Center Thanksgiving dinner and the Carter blood drive.

Teresita is also an AVID student and a member of Mu Alpha Theta, and she is an excellent leader and role model at Lamar. She is a well-spoken, gifted young woman who is a great example of a passionate, driven student. Congratulations, Teresita! †

“she is an excellent leader and role model at Lamar.”


BRINGING OUT

THE KID IN ALL OF US.

N A T U R A L L Y F U N . O R G

We invite you to explore one of our 91 Arlington parks, 53 miles of walking/jogging trails, 66 holes of golf, 26 tennis courts at Arlington Tennis Center, 7 pools, 4 recreation/athletics centers, 2 skateparks, disc golf course,

boat rental program, splash pads, Ventana Grille and more! Don’t feel like you have to cram it all into one day...but that would be awesome!

Principal for the Day at Dunn ElementaryMs. Emilia L. made a great principal for the day at Dunn Elementary. She greeted students, walked the hallways and even curled her hair to look more like Dunn principal Mary Helen Burnett. Great job Emilia! †


Campus News

Ashworth Elementary Ashworth Elementary has been recognized in many domains. Dallas Magazine named it as one of the ten best schools in Texas for three years and the Texas Business and Education Coalition placed Ashworth on its Honor Roll. This year, Ashworth was the only elementary school in the DFW area to be awarded six distinctions from TEA for its growth in academic achievement in the subjects of reading, math and science as measured by the state STAAR test. Over the past two years Ashworth teachers have written innovative technology grants. They have been awarded over $90,000 for new classroom equipment to help transform learning through the use of technology. According to Principal Rhonda Greer, “I am extremely proud of my staff and faculty who work hard to provide engaging activities every day for the students. The diverse population of our school and the dedication of all of our teachers, students and parents continue to make Ashworth is one of the best schools in the metroplex.”

Ashworth has been a school of firsts since it opened its doors in 1996. Early on, the school established a bond with Tarrant County College Southeast Arlington campus. Together they continue to provide many enrichment opportunities for the students and their families. Two such annual events are the traditional Maypole celebration and a spring art show featuring student art from every grade level. In addition, Ashworth is credited with being the first school in Arlington to attend concerts presented by the Bass Hall Children’s Education Program. Today it is a program that all Arlington schools are afforded. Four years ago Ashworth initiated and introduced the Pinwheels for Peace project to the Arlington community. Many AISD schools now join in celebrating World Peace Day in September by displaying colorful pinwheels in front of their school buildings. In June selected students travel to Austin to display their art at the capitol building and to meet with state representatives. Other school activities available to all students are the River Legacy Boat Regatta and a school wide Science Extravaganza which brings in many professionals from the DFW area such as Lockheed Martin. Ashworth has an active student council that organizes community outreach programs to help Mission Arlington and the Arlington

Animal Shelter. Four enrichment activities recently held for the students include a school-wide vocabulary parade, PTA Reflections contest, Trunk or Treat and the annual school spelling bee. This spring, students will be given the opportunity to be a part of the annual Living History Museum and the annual spring school musical.

Ashworth Elementary is a thriving part of Arlington. Along with the community, faculty here strives to make it the best it can be. †

Students participating in the Ashworth Elementary Vocabulary Parade

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$10,000 Fuel Up To Play 60 Grant At Fitzgerald ElementaryThe Dallas Cowboys and Dairy Max presented the Arlington ISD with a $10,000 Fuel Up to Play 60 Grant at Fitzgerald Elementary. Cowboys defensive end Jack Crawford and mascot Rowdy helped the Fitzgerald Fuel Up to Play 60 ambassador students complete a painting project that shows healthy food choices as well as different activities for the students to do as they get 60 minutes of physical activity per day. Arlington Mayor Dr. Robert Cluck and AISD Superintendent Dr. Marcelo Cavazos were also in attendance to help unveil the Fuel Up to Play 60 logo that was painted. †


Campus News

Martin High School“Making Spirits Bright” by Binh Le

Approximately 330 bags of beef jerky, 558 Rice Crispy treats, 934 fruit snack packets, 544 energy bars, and many more items were collected for the donation project on Nov. 14 from different organizations, people, and schools.

“Making Spirits Bright” is a donation project managed by Bonnie Flynt, a retired Spanish teacher. Flynt retired from teaching at Martin in 2011.

“This project is for the men and women that cannot be home for the holidays,” Flynt said. “I think the project is very fun and satisfying.”

Her son-in-law, Kelly Velder, is currently based out at the 301st Security Forces Squadron, NAS Fort Worth JRB. Velder sent an email asking for help in making this holiday season a little easier for the men and women of the 879th Security Forces Squadron in Saudi Arabia.

Velder first sent the email to his wife, Carrie Velder. Velder then contacted Flynt, Carrie Velder’s mother, who thought the project was a great idea.

“I thought of an idea that might provide a little taste of home,” Velder said. “Could we give each airman a stocking stuffed with small gifts? This may be a small gesture, but I want them to know they are not forgotten and for a short time longer, we are their family.”

This inspired the project, “Making Spirits Bright.” The goal

of the project was to send 153 goody-filled stockings to these men and women who serve our county. Spanish teacher Michelle Torres asked her students if they could donate and many agreed. Many students and teachers have family members who serve in the military, and being apart can be hard during the holidays.

“My husband was in the Marines and he’s been deployed twice,” Torres said. “I wanted to help since I understand the hard military lifestyle.”

Along with Martin, Bailey Junior High, Bowen Road School, Arlington High School, and MCA Hospital volunteers donated to help out our servicemen and women. Student Council also had a part in the project.

The majority of Torres’s classes voted to donate beef jerky packets for the project. The other items that are being donated are taken care of by other schools, organizations, families, or people.

“My grandpa was in World War II,” junior Kaley Ivy said. “I felt it was necessary to donate. If I was out there, this is what I would want – something to remind myself of home when times are rough.”

Even though the items collected may not seem like very much to us, the small, thoughtful gesture may mean a lot to the soldiers who are currently deployed in Saudi Arabia. †

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School District & Administration

Superintendent Appoints Director Of Human Resources Customer Service Center

Superintendent Dr. Marcelo Cavazos Announces The Selection Of Mark Strand As Director Of Human Resources Customer Service Center. Strand Has Been A Principal In The Arlington Isd For 18 Years, Including Stops At Newcomer Center (2007-Present), Anderson Elementary (2004-2007), Crouch Elementary (2000-2004) And Dunn Elementary (1996-2000). He Was An Assistant Principal At Sherrod Elementary From 1993 To 1996. Strand Also Taught Second And Sixth Grades At Starrett Elementary From 1990-1993 And Fourth Grade At Goodman Elementary From 1989 To 1990. Prior To That, Strand Was An English Teacher For Gwinnett County Schools In Georgia From

1988 To 1989. Strand Taught Seventh-Grade English And Eighth-Grade Reading At Nichols Junior High From 1985 To 1988. And He Taught English At Lutheran High School In Dallas From 1983 To 1985 And Also In Melrose Park, Ill., From 1978 To 1983. Strand Has A Bachelor’s From Concordia Teachers College In Illinois And Master’s Degrees From Both The University Of Illinois-Chicago And The University Of North Texas.

Board Of Trustees Names Principal Of Consolidated Workman/ Hutcheson Junior High

The Aisd Board Of Trustees Announces Its Selection Of Inelda Acosta As Principal Of The Consolidated Workman/Hutcheson Junior High. As A Part Of The 2014 Bond Program, Current Hutcheson Junior High Students Will Be Rezoned To Workman Junior High Starting Next Fall While A Districtwide Career And Technical Center Is Built On The Hutcheson Site. Acosta Has Been The Principal At Hutcheson Junior High Since May 2014. Prior To That, She Was Principal At Crow Elementary Since 2012, And She Was An Assistant Principal At Carter Junior High From 2008 To 2012. Acosta Was A Seventh- And Eighth-Grade Esl Teacher At Shackelford Junior High From 2002

To 2008, And She Taught Bilingual Third Grade At Roark Elementary From 1999-2000. Acosta Has A Bachelor’s Degree From Baylor University And A Master’s Degree From The University Of Texas At Arlington.

Board Of Trustees Names Principal Of Consolidated Ousley/Ferguson Junior High

The Aisd Board Of Trustees Announces Its Selection Of Lora Thurston As Principal Of The Consolidated Ousley/Ferguson Junior High. As A Part Of The 2014 Bond Program, Current Ferguson Junior High Students Will Be Rezoned To Ousley Junior High Starting Next Fall So The Ferguson Building Can Be Repurposed For Newcomer Center And Venture High School. Thurston Has Been The Principal At Ousley Junior High Since 2002, And She Was An Assistant Principal At Ousley From 1998 To 2002. Thurston Taught Ninth-Grade English And Reading At Bowie High School From 1994 To 1998, And She Was A Seventh-Grade English And Reading Teacher At Carter Junior

High From 1992 To 1994. Prior To Her Time In The Arlington Isd, Thurston Was An Eighth-Grade Reading Improvement Teacher In The Abilene Isd From 1988 To 1991. Thurston Has A Bachelor’s Degree And Two Master’s Degrees From Abilene Christian University.

Board Of Trustees Names Principal Of Gunn Junior High

The Aisd Board Of Trustees Announces Its Selection Of Juan Villarreal As Principal Of Gunn Junior High. Villarreal Has Been Serving As The Principal At Turning Point High School Since 2013, And, Prior To That, He Was An Assistant Principal At Martin High School For Seven Years. Villarreal Served As An Assistant Principal For Five Years For The Fort Worth Isd At Paschal High School And Arlington Heights High School. He Was A Spanish And Ap Spanish Teacher And Coach For Six Years In The Reagan County Isd After Beginning His Career In The Water Valley Isd As A Spanish Teacher And Coach In 1992. He Has A Bachelor’s Degree From Angelo State University And A Master’s Degree From Sul Ross State University.


Board Of Trustees Names Principal Of Shackelford Junior High

The Aisd Board Of Trustees Announces Its Selection Of Jerod Zahn As Principal Of Shackelford Junior High. Zahn Has Served As The Principal Of Ferguson Junior High Since May 2014, And He Was An Assistant Principal At Boles Junior High From 2011 To 2014. He Was A Physical Education Teacher And Coach At Bailey Junior High From 2009 To2011, And He Taught English At Bailey For Two Years Prior To That. Zahn Has Also Served As An Assistant Principal At Young Junior High (2004-2007) And An English Teacher And Coach At Gunn Junior High (2001-2004). He Started His Teaching Career In 2000 In The Venus Isd. Zahn Holds A Bachelor’s Degree From Hardin-Simmons University And A Master’s Degree From The University Of North Texas.

Board Of Trustees Names Assistant Principals

The AISD Board of Trustees announces assistant principals for Bowie and Sam Houston high schools, Carter Junior High and Thornton Elementary.

Lee Jones has been selected as an assistant principal at Bowie High School. Jones has been a science teacher and coach at Workman Junior High since 2012. Prior to that, he was a physical education teacher at Berry Elementary from 2009 to 2012, the sports director of the 21st Century Program at Nichols Junior High from 2008 to 2009, and an elementary tutor and kindergarten teacher assistant at Berry Elementary from 2006 to 2009. Jones has both a bachelor’s and master’s from the University of Texas at Arlington.

Dr. Angela Bicknell has been selected as an assistant principal at Sam Houston High School. Bicknell has been the 21st Century Community Learning Centers grant coordinator in the Birdville ISD since 2009. Previously, Bicknell was an assistant principal at Lake Point Elementary in the Eagle Mountain- Saginaw ISD from 2008 to 2009. She was also a grant coordinator in the Birdville ISD from 2006 to 2008 and an English/language arts teacher at Haltom High School from 1993 to 2006. Bicknell has a bachelor’s from the University of North Texas, a master’s from Texas Wesleyan University and a doctorate from Walden University in Minneapolis.

Brandon Howard has been selected as an assistant principal at Carter Junior High. Previously, Howard has been the assistant principal at Key Elementary since 2012. Howard was a physical education teacher and coach at Bailey Junior High from 2006 to 2012, and he was a Texas and U.S. history teacher and coach at Bailey from 2000 to 2006. Howard has a bachelor’s from McMurry University and a master’s from the University of Texas at Arlington.

Carlos Lopez has been selected as the assistant principal at Thornton Elementary. Lopez has been a second-, third- and fifth-grade and Title I teacher at Helbing Elementary in the Fort Worth ISD since 2007. Prior to that, he was a vocational rehabilitation counselor with the Texas Department of Assistive and Rehabilitative Services from 2005 to 2007. Lopez has a bachelor’s from UT Southwestern Medical Center and a master’s from American College of Education in Indiana.



Dr. Marcelo Cavazos, superintendent of the Arlington Independent School District, has been selected by the U.S. Department of Education as one of 100 top school leaders from across America to participate in the first-ever National Connected Superintendents Summit Wednesday, Nov. 19 at the White House.

“I am honored to have been selected to represent the Arlington ISD in this summit,” Cavazos said. “One of the goals in ourAchieve Today. Excel Tomorrow.strategic plan is to be a high performing, technology-rich school district with leading-edge learning experiences that promote engagement, creativity, critical thinking and achievement. With our technology updates and expansion in the 2014 bond program, Transformation Through Innovation technology grants, and our new learning management system, we are constantly working to expand the access to and usage of technology for our students.”

Cavazos is among exemplary local school chiefs who will be recognized for their leadership in helping transition their districts to digital learning. This unique conference will bring together officials from throughout America to share with one other and the Education

Department promising approaches to using technology in classes.

“School districts across the country are helping teachers harness the power of technology to create personal learning environments for all students,” said U.S. Secretary of Education Arne Duncan.

“We want to make sure every child – whether he or she is in the inner-city, in a rural community or on a Native American reservation – has access to knowledge and the chance to learn 24 hours a day, seven days a week.”

The White House summit will be followed by a series of 12-15 regional summits that will focus on the digital progress both made and possible by local school districts. The events will also include the unveiling of digital tools that facilitate incorporation of technology into short-term and long-range education planning.

To help spotlight the value of technology in schools, the Education Department is sponsoring a Future Ready Initiative aimed at showcasing outstanding school leadership and strategies.

“The Future Ready Initiative highlights the critical role of district leaders in setting a vision and creating the environment where educators and students access the tools, content, and expertise necessary for thriving in a connected world,” said Richard Culatta, director of the Department’s Office of Educational Technology.

Future Ready superintendents demonstrate effective use of technology in some of the following ways:

• Fostering and leading a culture of collaboration and digital citizenship

• Transitioning schools to high-speed connectivity

• Empowering educators with professional learning opportunities

• Accelerating progress toward universal access to quality devices

• Providing access to quality digital content

Superintendent Cavazos Selected For National Connected Superintendents Summit At White House


Nearly $1 Million Awarded In Transformation Through Innovation GrantsThe AISD Instructional Technology department was out in full force last week, handing out nearly $1 million in Transformation Through Innovation Grants to 30 Arlington ISD campuses. Teachers and staff members were awarded these grants for their proposals for transforming their classrooms through innovative approaches to learning and technology use. Teachers and students will show off these innovative and creative approaches to learning in a Transformation Through Innovation Grant Showcase on May 18, 2015, at the Professional Development Center. †

• Creating access, equity, and excellence – particularly in rural, remote and low-income districts

• Offering digital tools to students and families to help them prepare for success in college

• Sharing best practices and mentoring other districts in the transition to digital learning

“Technology has the potential to transform education in America, allowing students to learn more, to do so at their own pace, and to develop the knowledge and skills employers demand,” Culatta said. “And yet, fewer than 30 percent of classrooms have the broadband Internet to support today’s education technology needs.”

In June 2013, President Obama announced the ConnectED Initiative, starting with a goal of connecting 99 percent of students to next-generation connectivity within five years. Model schools and districts across the country are using technology to create personalized learning environments; technology will play an increasingly crucial role in the future. †



2014 Bond PackageVoters approved the $663.1 million bond election on May 10, 2014. Proceeds of the bond issue will be used to build new facilities, upgrade and renovate existing facilities, address safety and security districtwide, upgrade technology infrastructure and equipment, provide fine arts equipment, and address transportation.

Facilities • Districtwide career and technical center • Districtwide agricultural science facility • Renovation of existing career/technical spaces at each

high school • Districtwide fine arts center • Renovation/upgrade of existing fine arts spaces at each

high school • Districtwide athletics complex for swimming and diving,

gymnastics, and wrestling • Renovation of existing athletics spaces at each high

school • Muti-purpose activity center for athletics and fine arts at

each high school • Junior high and high school special education alternative

curriculum centers in south Arlington (one each) • Relocate Newcomer Center and Venture High School to

Ferguson Junior High • Workman Junior High classroom addition • Two new elementaries - in north Arlington and east

Arlington - to relieve over-crowding • Repurpose Corey and Roquemore elementaries for

elementary fine arts/dual language academies • Two science labs and a strings room at each elementary • Site acquisition • Building condition improvements/additions and life

cycle replacements identified through comprehensive facilities assessment, which include security entrances at elementary campuses, additional keyless entry points at all schools, parking lot improvements and expansion, flooring and ceiling improvements, landscaping, mechanical and plumbing upgrades, electrical repairs, scheduled roof replacements and repairs, heating and air conditioning replacements/upgrades, lighting for junior high athletic fields, junior high tracks, and ADA accessibility issues

Fine Arts • Instruments • Uniforms • Risers and choir shells • Recommendations promote access to fine arts

programs, remove barriers that are preventing students from participating in fine arts, provide instruments for students who cannot afford to purchase their own and support program growth

Safety, Security & Technology • Security cameras, digital signage, public address

systems, bus tracking and wireless phones for campus administrators

• Technology infrastructure including wireless enhancements, additional Internet access, video technology, new voicemail system, disaster recovery, broadcast studio and board room audio-visual equipment

• Scheduled equipment replacements • Increase technology access through additional mobile

devices for students and teachers • Classroom technology standards - teacher laptops,

projectors and screens, and document cameras • Campus transformation initiatives through campus

grants for innovative uses of technology that transform learning in the classroom

• Technology for special instructional and co-curricular programs including art, athletics, journalism, library services and special education

Transportation • Regular education buses - replace 59 and add 12 • Special education buses - replace 37 and add six • Service vehicles for student programs, security and

maintenance - replace 130 and add 20 • Mix of propane and diesel buses; diesel buses are used

for longer trips outside the district • Additional buses will support off-campus programs and

special education program growth

Property Taxes • The AISD’s current tax rate of $1.29217 is the third-

lowest rate of all Tarrant county school districts. • The debt service portion of the tax rate is expected to

increase by about 15 cents from 2016 through 2020. • The tax increase to support the bond package will cost

the owner of a $100,000 home about $126 per year or $10 per month more than they are currently paying in taxes.

• For taxpayers with an over-65 homestead exemption, there will be no tax increase as AISD taxes on their homestead are frozen. †


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CELEBRATION 11 am | Great Hall

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MARINESThe Few. The Proud.

BOARD OF TRUSTEES

Bowie Hogg - PresidentP.O. Box 122596

Arlington, TX 76012817-565-2636

[email protected] 6: Term ends 2017

Jamie Sullins - Vice President1203 W Pioneer Pkwy Arlington, TX 76013

817-692-1799 [email protected]

Place 5: Term ends 2016

Dr. Aaron Reich - SecretaryP.O. Box 122298

Arlington, TX 76012817-277-5498

[email protected] Place 3: Term ends 2015

John Hibbs - Asst Secretary1203 W Pioneer Pkwy Arlington, TX 76013

[email protected]

Place 4: Term ends 2016

Gloria Peña - Board MemberP.O. Box 172648

Arlington, TX 76013817-483-5165


Peter Baron - Board MemberP.O. Box 13092

Arlington, TX 76094682-867-7344


Kecia Mays - Board MemberP.O. Box 150273

Arlington TX 76015972-814-3098


Dr. Marcelo Cavazos – Superintendent1203 W. Pioneer PkwyArlington, Texas 76013

[email protected]

AISD Board of Trustees named 2014 Outstanding School Board of TexasThe Arlington ISD Board of Trustees was named 2014 Outstanding School Board of Texas by the Texas Association of School Administrators. The program honors one school board from the state’s 1,027 independent school districts that has demonstrated dedication to student achievement and makes every effort to put students first.

“Our Board is passionate about ensuring that all Arlington ISD students are successful, and this recognition validates that focus and their work to achieve that belief,” Superintendent Dr. Marcelo Cavazos said. “The Board truly exemplifies governance through transformation. They are committed to our mission to empower and engage all students to be contributing, responsible citizens reaching their maximum potential through relevant, innovative and rigorous learning experiences.”

The five finalist Honor Boards were selected by a committee of school superintendents and were then interviewed yesterday during the TASA/TASB Convention. The committee’s decisions were based on specific criteria, including support for educational performance, support for educational improvement projects, commitment to a code of ethics, and maintenance of harmonious and supportive relationships among board members.

“We are honored to have been named the 2014 Outstanding School Board of Texas for our work supporting the education of our nearly 64,000 students,” Board President Bowie Hogg. “The Board is committed to strong educational performance and improvement and is made up of dedicated public servants.” †

2014 TASB Honor Board from left to right: John Hibbs – Asst. Secretary, Kecia Mays - Board Member, Gloria Peña - Board Member, Bowie Hogg – President, Jamie Sullins - Vice President, Dr. Marcelo Cavazos – Superintendent of Schools, Dr. Aaron Reich – Secretary, Peter Baron - Board Member.




Recognizing an Outstanding TeacherFamilies attending the annual Nichols Junior High Holiday Concert this year were treated to the usual mix of traditional and contemporary songs of the season. The concert was pleasant and entertaining and the audience was full of parents holding up phones and tablets to capture their students in all of their harmonious glory. Restless little siblings squirmed in their seats and whispered to their parents to inquire how much longer they would be required to remain quiet observers, trapped in their auditorium seats, when empty schools halls practically begged for children to run wildly through them. It wasn’t until the Mustang Men’s Chorale took the stage that the mood shifted from quiet and reverent observation, to full-on belly-laughing awe and amazement. For their final number, the Men’s Chorale

“I’ve never had such a funny but passionate teacher until I got into Mr. Haugens choir class” ~ Kennedy

Nichols Junior High Choir Teacher Mr. Greg Haugen, wife Amy and their children


group chose a familiar song, but added choreography which had these young men smiling and laughing and dancing in unison to the delight of the audience members. Here were these 7th and 8th grade boys, who could barely muster a shoulder shrug or a mumbled groan in response to questions from their parents most days, dancing like no one was watching and clearly enjoying every second of it. The response from parents after this show was the same one I have heard for many years, “How does he get those boys to do that?”

The “He” the parents were referring to is none other than Mr. Greg Haugen, the head choir director at Nichols Junior High. Mr. Haugen is the driving force behind the exceptional choir program at Nichols and he is responsible for making it “totally cool” to be in choir. I sat down with Mr. Haugen recently and asked him to tell me about the journey that brought him to Nichols.

Mr. Greg Haugen: In his own words:“After graduating from Springtown HS in 1993, I spent two years at Weatherford College and then finished up at Dallas Baptist University from where I graduated in 1999. I enjoyed singing growing up, but I never imagined doing what I do now. It wasn’t until my 2nd year of college that I decided to study music. A mentor impressed upon me this simple fact: If not being involved in making music was going to leave me with a void in my life and I couldn’t live with such emptiness, making music was something my heart needed to do. Singing and choir-directing would be that avenue to keep my soul happy. My time at Dallas Baptist University

confirmed that calling and I found myself immersed in choirs under the direction of Stephen Holcomb, from whom I learned many things about being a complete choir director. Not

“complete” in the sense that I’m a world class conductor, but gaining knowledge that there’s more to being a director than just waving my arms. It takes commitment to the craft of directing, commitment to the art of making music, and committing to the most important part: the members of any choir I direct.

When I did my student teaching at the end of my time at DBU, I was placed at Nichols JH in Arlington. NJH is quite different from small-town Springtown, TX, but I quickly found that I had a heart for teaching in such a diverse population. I was asked to become the assistant choir director at Nichols at the end of my student teaching. I was excited to have a job, but I had no idea what was in store for me. After two and half years, I became the head director.

My time at Nichols has been filled with many blessings. Our Mustangs become All-City and All-Region choir members, they learn the art of choral and solo singing, they regularly win Sweepstakes trophies at UIL Contests, and have been named “best in class” at choral festivals. The biggest blessing to me is that so many of our singers go on to sing at Lamar HS and beyond. Many uncover that singing is something they really can find a way to do for the rest of their lives. The biggest honor our choir program has received came during the 2006-2007 school year when our top men’s choir, “The Men of the Mustang Chorale” was invited to sing for the Texas Music Educators Association convention in San Antonio. Only a select few choirs are invited to perform each year thus making it a difficult goal to achieve. It was a fine moment for Nichols JH and one I will never forget.

During my time at Nichols, I’ve also gotten to live out another passion of mine: leading worship through church music. In 2005, I was asked by a Nichols family to apply for a job at their church, First

United Methodist Church of Arlington, to work with their youth choir. I didn’t find a new calling, but I did realize my calling was a much bigger one that I originally anticipated. Getting to work with the youth through music and walking alongside them on their faith journeys (and mine) was extremely humbling. I have enjoyed my time at FUMCA and treasure what God has laid before me through the youth of that church. While I’ve been at FUMCA, I was also asked to lead worship in the contemporary service. Through the years, the musicians I’ve had the honor of leading with have also had some exciting opportunities. A few years ago, we decided to step out on faith and take our ministry outside of the church and minister to the community and surrounding areas. Our band, Center313, has been blessed with many songs that help us tell our story about our faith in Christ, where that faith is taking us, how it’s made us into the people we are, and how it’s making us into the people God wants us to be tomorrow. Our first album,

“Worth the Fight” released in June of 2014 is a true testament to God’s faithfulness and His blessing.

There’s no doubt that no matter how I look back on my life at Nichols, FUMCA, Dallas Baptist, Springtown HS, etc, I can’t seem to put those times into their own little compartments. Each one has molded me into who I am today, gotten me ready for the next step, but are also proving to be intertwined with each other in a way that does not easily separate them. None of them can be isolated from the others in explaining what has made me into who I am. None of them can stand on their own without paying tribute to where I was before. I am who I am because of my time at these various placeholders. I am where I am because I have needed these experiences to make me into the person I am today.

“I am blessed to be a Mustang.”

With all due respect, Mr. Haugen, Nichols Junior High is blessed to have you. †


Non-Profi t Organizations

Students Volunteer at Mission ArlingtonMany schools in Arlington volunteer at Mission Arlington on a routine basis and during the holidays brings no exception. Various clubs and organizations volunteered at the Mission Arlington Christmas Store on December 13th. The schools include Sam Houston HS Drill Team and Student Council, Martin HS AVID, Bowie HS FCCLA, Arlington HS Key Club, Bailey Jr. High NJHS, Hutcheson Jr. High Student Council and Young Jr. High AVID.

At the Mission Arlington Christmas Store, thousands of parents are able to shop for gifts for their loved ones at no charge and hundreds of Christmas trees are delivered to help families celebrate this cherished holiday. It is a full year project with donations coming in on December 26th and collected all year. The store empties on Christmas day with 35,000 children receiving gifts throughout the two weeks the store is open.

Volunteer tasks include being a shopper helper, helping adults find gifts for their kids, stockers, keeping toys and other gifts placed in the store, child care, providing a safe place for parents to leave their children when they shop – and so much more.

Tillie Burgin and Jim Burgin are extremely grateful for the partnerships Mission Arlington has with the schools. “We want when they come to be significant in what they do, and what they feel when they go back. The partnership is really strong”. †

Bailey Junior High NJHS Students Administration Employees

Bowie High School FCCLA, PALS and AVID Students

Key Elementary Students


Tailgate Arlington Wild Wild West – A Wild Success!Hundreds of people packed the Arlington Museum of Art on September 20th to support the AISD Education Foundation.More than $100,000 was raised to benefit the Foundation from the 4th annual Tailgate Arlington Wild Wild West - a country, western-themed fun-filled event. The fun included a barbecue dinner prepared by Kelly Curnutt, Cowboy entertainment, a photo booth, “The Claw” filled with goodies from The Highlands, silent and live auctions, and entertainment from the Bailey Junior High Theater Arts Department.

A special thank you to all sponsors, including:

• Perdue Brandon Fielder Collins & Mott • Medical Center of Arlington • Dan Dipert Family Fund • 3 Di Sign + Design • Affiliated Bank • AISD Board of Directors • Arlington Convention & Visitor’s Bureau • Joy & Chad Bates • Doreen & Joe Bruner • Anna & Justin Chapa • Shalyn & Al Clark • ClearChannel Communications • Mary Tom & Kelly Curnutt • Linda & Dan Dipert • Dan Dipert Coaches • Frost Bank • J. Hutcherson • Laura & Jimmy Jones • LBL Architects • Greg McCarthy • Reliable Paving • Six Flags Over Texas • Southside Bank • Southwest Bank • Star-Telegram • Texas Health Arlington Memorial Hospital • Texas Trust Credit Union • Wade Funeral Home • Karen & Jeff Williams • Worthington Bank

Also, special thanks to our event co-chairs, Karen & Jeff Williams, and the Tailgate Arlington Committee comprised of Michael Jarrett, Chad Bates, Mary Tom Curnutt, Kelly Curnutt , Karol-Ann Mozjesik, Leanne Rand, Ann Morris, Doreen Bruner, Kay King, Beth Owens, Tom McCarty, Charlotte Demby, Lorie White, Scott Slover Lori Lane, Linda Dipert Grace Ann Durden, Sharn Barbarin, Barbara Nash, Diane Patrick. Justin Chapa, Clay Kelley, David Wilbanks, and Laura Jones.Thank you to all who made this event a WILD SUCCESS! †

A Note from the Foundation DirectorThe AISD Education Foundation is celebrating its 20th Anniversary. For two decades, we have provided more than $1.2 million in funds for extraordinary educational opportunities for our teachers and students. As the new Executive Director of the Foundation, I think we can build on that solid foundation of support and expand our resources to our students, teachers and staff within the Arlington ISD.

A strong and viable Education Foundation is a tremendous boost to our public schools within the Arlington ISD. Not only does your solid private support of our schools benefit our students and teachers, but your contributions of time, talent, and treasure are a long-term investment in our community and our quality of life.

As the third largest city in the Metroplex and one of the top ten largest school districts in Texas, the challenges are daunting. However, I feel confident by pulling together we can meet those challenges with the outstanding and faithful support of our citizens.

Sincerely,Brian A. White

Executive DirectorArlington ISD Education Foundation


Non-Profi t Organizations

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Author and Illustrator Vuthy Kuon Fan visited students at Crow Elementary.

Students from Bud Remyns Elementary won hams donated by the Church on Rush Creek during their first Ham Scramble Run.

National Merit Semifinalists, National Achievement and Hispanic Scholars were honored at the board meeting on December 11th.

Hutcheson Jr. High orchestra students on their Elementary tour.

#AISDWhat’s happening around the district


Board of Trustees recognized by the Tarrant County Commissioners Court as being the 2014 TX Association of School Administrator Outstanding School Board of Texas.

Little Elementary teachers take the challenge to save energy to a new level.

Bailey Jr. High council officers attended the Texas Association of Student Councils (TASC) Leadership conference in San Marcos.

Winter literacy night at Adams Elementary.

Mrs. Saenz and her 2nd grade class at Williams Elementary made cards for soldiers at NAS JRB Fort Worth to thank them for their service on Veteran’s Day.

The Eli Young Band put on a concert for students at Martin High School.


 

 

 

 

 

 

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Entrepreneurship contest finalists will be selected from every school in Arlington that submits entries. The finalists and overall AISD top contest winners from 3rd-8th grade will be announced at the awards ceremony.

Arlington Entrepreneurship Day Saturday, April 11, 2015 UT Arlington's College Park Center All finalists will be recognized on stage and the overall top contest winners will receive a prize package that includes tickets to Arlington attractions such as Six Flags Over Texas and the Texas Rangers as well as a T-shirt, trophy and a chance to win a scholarship.

The Arlington ISD and the Arlington Chamber of Commerce are searching for the most entrepreneurial and innovative third- through eighth-grade students in the district.

The "What's Your Big Idea?" Entrepreneurship Contest provides Arlington ISD students in third through eighth grade the opportunity to embrace their entrepreneurial spirit by developing an innovative idea for a product or a business. Students in The Class in the Parks DECA Chapter have partnered with the Arlington Chamber of Commerce to plan and implement this contest.

Contest entries are due by Feb. 13, 2015.

Complete contest information is available on the AISD website at www.aisd.net


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Webb Elementary bilingual teacher Mr. Karam and his 2nd grade class completed the most dreambox learning math lessons for the month of October.

Barnett Jr. High football City Champs.

Students at Sam Houston High School raised money during their lip dub to donate to Cystic Fibrosis in memory of teacher Eric Fox.

AISD recently received a incentive payment to support the development of the Loan Star Energy Efficiency Project.

South Davis Elementary held it’s first annual Mrs. Austin Gobble Wobble in honor and memory of teacher Mrs. Austin.


Lamar High School students honored several military veterans during a ceremony on Veteran’s Day.

Duff Elementary celebrated their 50th Anniversary.

Dean P. Corey Elementary participates in International Walk to School Day.

Teachers from Ditto Elementary serving rolls at Spring Creek BBQ for fundraiser night.

#AISDWhat’s happening around the district


#AISD

FINE ARTS EVENTS

Beckham Elementary 1st & 2nd Grade PerformanceWhen - Thu, January 15, 7pm – 8pmWhere - Beckham Elementary School

Larson Elementary Music - 1st Grade PerformanceWhen - Thu, January 15, 7pm – 8pmWhere - Larson Elementary School

MHS Choir Cluster ConcertsWhen - Sat, January 24, 3pm – 6pmWhere - MHS Auditorium

Ousley JH Musical - “Legally Blonde Jr.”When - Thu, January 29 - 30,

7:00pm – 8:30pmWhere - Ousley Junior High School

AHS Choir Cluster ConcertWhen - Sat, January 31, 3pm – 5pmWhere - AHS Auditorium

AISD All-City Band ConcertWhen - Sat, January 31, 7:00pm – 9:30pmWhere - Bowie High School

Lamar HS Choir Cluster ConcertWhen - Tue, February 3, 5:30pm – 6:30pmWhere - Lamar HS Auditorium

Young JH Choir TMEA Home ConcertWhen - Thu, February 5, 7pm – 8pmWhere - Trinity United Methodist

Barnett JH Orchestra Cluster ConcertWhen - Fri, February 6, 7:45pm – 8:45pmWhere - Barnett Junior High School

MHS Orchestra Cluster ConcertWhen - Sat, February 7, 1pm – 3pmWhere - MHS Gym

Beckham Elementary 5th & 6th Grade MusicalWhen - Tue, February 10, 7pm – 8pmWhere - Beckham Elementary School

Young JH Choir TMEA PerformanceWhen - Thu, February 12,

10:30am – 11:00amWhere - Ballroom A

AISD Full Orchestra Pre-UILWhen - Thu, February 19,

5:30pm – 6:30pmWhere - MHS Auditorium

SHHS Orchestra “Sweet Serenade”When - Thu, February 19,

6:30pm – 8:00pmWhere - SHHS Cafeteria

LHS and LD Bell Orchestra Pre-UILWhen - Fri, February 20, 4pm – 9pmWhere - LHS Auditorium

MHS String Orchestra Pre-UILWhen - Fri, February 20,


AISD Show Choir ShowcaseWhen - Fri, February 20, 7pm – 9pmWhere - Bowie HS Auditorium

SHHS Orchestra Cluster Pre-UILWhen - Tue, February 24, 5pm – 8pmWhere - SHHS Auditorium

Nichols & Shackelford JH Orchestra Pre-UILWhen - Wed, February 25,

4:30pm – 9:00pmWhere - LHS Auditorium

Foster Elementary 3rd Grade ProgramWhen - Thu, February 26, 6pm – 7pmWhere - Foster Elementary Cafeteria

Rankin Elementary 5th Grade ProgramWhen - Thu, February 26, 6pm – 7pmWhere - Rankin Elementary School

West Elementary SingersWhen - Thu, February 26, 7pm – 8pmWhere - West Elementary School

MHS Choir Pops ConcertWhen - Sat, February 28,


LHS Percussion Ensemble ConcertWhen - Tue, March 3, 7pm – 9pmWhere - LHS Auditorium

Nichols JH Percussion ConcertWhen - Tue, March 3, 7pm – 8pmWhere - Lamar HS Auditorium

Shackelford JH Percussion ConcertWhen - Tue, March 3, 7pm – 8pmWhere - Lamar HS Auditorium

DISTRICT EVENTS

Board MeetingWhen - Thu, January 15, 7pm – 10pmWhere - 1203 W Pioneer Pkwy,

Arlington, TX

Student/Staff HolidayWhen - Monday, Jan 19, 2015

Cte Student Course Fair And Parent Information NightWhen - 6:30-8:30 p.m. (come and go) on

Wednesday, Jan. 21, 2015Where - Mac Bernd Professional Develop-

ment Center, 1111 W. Arbrook Blvd in Arlington

The Arlington ISD is hosting a Career and Technical Education Student Course Fair and Parent Information Night.Get answers to questions such as: What is career education?; How can I earn college credit in high school?; and, What classes can I take that will prepare me for a career?

Board MeetingWhen - Thu, February 5, 7pm – 10pmWhere - 1203 W Pioneer Pkwy,

Arlington, TX

Student/Staff HolidayWhen - Monday, Feb 16, 2015

Spring BreakWhen - Mar 9 – 13, 2015

STAY CONNECTED WITH AISD

Visit the Arlington Independent School District website at AISD.net. You can keep up to date with all of the latest news and important school district information through all social media platforms right on the AISD homepage.

Monday - Saturday 10am - 9pmSunday 11am - 6 pm

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Documents

Aisd Magazine january 2015