Texas Scholars Magazine

Summer 2014

txscholarsmag.com

Students + Educators + Leaders

Mercedes (MECA) student claws through her first year of college Rio Hondo’s

Alaniz Brothers Tee Off

GEORGE MCSHAN Over 30 Years of Visionary Leadership

SBCISD’s

CELESTE SANCHEZ

is San Benito’s

First Female Mayor

MARCY MARTINEZ “We’re All One Big Family”

Texas Scholars Magazine | Summer 2014

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Your Future is in Your Hands... what will you do with yours?

Be a School Administrator!

Be a Teacher!

Your leadership qualities, coupled with your passion for education, and your desire to make a difference are reasons why you should think about earning your Principal Certification!

Project P.a.C.E., accredited by the Texas Education Agency, is an alternative route to teacher certification for those individuals who already have a bachelor’s degree. Project P.a.C.E. is a rigorous, fast-paced educator preparation program of the Region One Education Service Center, designed to prepare and certify highly qualified individuals to teach in Texas public schools. Candidates must have access to a computer, internet, and email.

The Region One ESC Integrated Leadership Principal Preparation Program (ILP³) can make it happen! ILP³ is an accelerated alternative certification program of the Region One Education Service Center, designed to recruit, prepare, mentor, and certify aspiring campus administrators.

ILP Minimum Requirements/Option 1

If you already hold a Master’s Degree, earn a Principal’s Certificate

•

A Master’s Degree from an accredited college or university; a minimum G.P.A. of 3.0 on a 4.0 scale; a valid Texas Teacher certificate; a minimum of 2 years of teaching experience in a PK-12 setting; a minimum of 2 years of school leadership experience.

• • • •

ILP Minimum Requirements/Option 2

Earn your Principal’s Certificate AND a Master’s Degree

• • • • •

A Bachelor’s Degree from an accredited college or university; A minimum G.P.A. of 2.5 on a 4.0 scale; A valid Texas Teacher certificate; A minimum of 1 year of teaching experience in a PK-12 setting; A minimum of 1 year of school leadership experience; acceptance into a Walden University Master’s program.

•

Master’s Degree through Region One ESC’s partnership with Walden University

To schedule an interview for ILP 3program placement contact Sandra McConaughy at (956) 984-6038 or smcconaughy@esc1.net

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If you have questions about Project P.a.C.E. contact Naomi Arnold at (956) 984-6101 narnold@esc1.net Texas Scholars Magazine or | Summer 2014

Successful candidates will complete: • an intensive pre-assignment training program the summer prior to their internship year • a one year paid school-based internship or 12-14 week unpaid clinical teaching internship • Ongoing focused training sessions and preparation for the TExEs during the internship year.

• Interns successfully completing all program/state requirements will be recommended for a standard Texas teaching certificate.

Don’t wait-call today to secure your spot in the next ILP3 or Project P.a.C.E. Cohort Class!

Texas Scholars Magazine | Summer 2014

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THE STAFF Publisher

Letter I from the Publisher

Silvestre Treviño IV

FROM THE PUBLISHER December 2013

hope everyone had a relaxing and revitalizing summer. If you’re new to Texas Scholars Magazine, please feel free to indulge. Each individual featured is positively making a direct impact on their community and on their school districts.

They’re winning and moving forward, elevating themselves and the ones around them to persevere and excel.

contributing Editors

Patrick Garcia Roxann Garcia

CONTENTS

In our Summer issue, we’re bringing you some major key players from the RGV area. Marcy Martinez, Celeste Sanchez and George McShan are all equally Another year has come and gone. The holiday cheer and imperative impressive, but share common interests; hard work, dedication to their craft and the hustle and bustle has arrived as the outlet store shelves are cleared. desire to uplift their community. They’re role models and leaders and we’re honored Whattoused to be one day of great consumer deals has progressively have them be a part of our mission. The students featured are going above and turned into, what seems like, an entire monthon of their salesway at to thea promising department beyond to reach their goals.

They are certainly future and stores.

I’m not complaining, I like to save money where I can.

So we tend we’re excited for them.

to eat more, enjoy the blast of the cold winter climate, we exchange gifts, celebrate the 7traditions it Advisory all flies by.In each Amidst allthethe Turn to page to read up onand our new Board. issue for next year, excitement, I’m guilty neglecting, areinsight in my personal we will introduce you of to each member, what giving you intoown who they are and why we are to have them serveofour Christmas. readers. PleaseBeing stay connected us asa we beliefs, theluckytrue meaning raised toin expand and as we grow.

We wish only the best for our readers and our community.

Catholic home, I’m reluctant to forget what faith has taught me about this beautiful holiday. I truly hope each and every one of you gets to well, enjoyBethe holidays, celebrate your own beliefs with your families and Silvestre Treviño IV take some time to rejuvenate yourselves because 2014 has arrived!

Publisher

Thank you all for your support and for being a part of our mission.

Merry Christmas and Happy New Year!

Design

Carlos Pérez

Contributing Writers

Eder pg 6:Castillo La Villa Bros.

Amanda Longoria

story ideas, comments or inquiries

info@txscholarsmag.com advertising

silvestre@txscholarsmag.com (512)771-1205 silver@txscholarsmag.com

pg 12: Weslaco ISD’s (956)226-3639 Superintendent Talks Tech online www.txscholarsmag.com

pg 14: Donna Crime Stoppers like us on facebook

facebook.com/texasscholarsmagazine

CONTENTS / SUMMER 2014 8

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Silvestre Trevino IV Publisher

Staff

health corner

The

This School Year Make Breakfast a Priority

16

Publisher Silvestre Trevino IV Celeste Sanchez

San Benito’s First Female Major Editor

4

Deborah Morales Chris Hoffman

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Story Ideas, Comments, or Inquiries:

info@txscholarsmag.comGeorge Mcshan

student spotlight

Robyn Chelsea Sanchez Over 30 years of Visionary Claws Through Her First Year Leadership Advertising: of College silvestre@txscholarsmag.com

512.771.1205 silver@txscholarsmag.com

Texas Scholars Magazine | Summer 2014

Contributing Writer

Rio Hondo’s Alaniz Brothers Tee Off

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pg 20: Edinburg CISD

COMING UP NEXT ISSUE •

The McNeil Foundation Principal Certification Program is coming soon to Harlingen

• Region One ESC - At Your Service Marcy Martinez

“We’re All One Big Family”

Thank You!

F

or the past two years, Texas Scholars Magazine has brought to light the leaders and achievers of the classroom from throughout Texas. Beginning in the Rio Grande Valley, our coverage is stretching up to Central Texas and expanding toward Fort Worth, Texas.

We would like to extend our deepest gratitude to our sponsors, partners and advertisers for your continued business and support.

MENCHACA

AUTO SALES AND SERVICE

HARLINGEN

Samuel Reyes Attorney At Law • Rio Grande Valley Leader • Harlingen Economic Development Corporation Ezequiel Tovar Attorney At Law • Sheriff Omar Lucio • Francisco J. Rodriguez Attorney At Law • VAMOS Frank Federal Bonding • Dark Nights Comics • ERI-Grant Writing, Evaluation, and Profesional Development Firm • CTC- Professional Development Center; Grant Management; and Publications Center Texas Scholars Magazine | Summer 2014

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Texas Scholars Magazine Advisory Board We’d like to welcome our 2014-2015 Advisory Board. This board is comprised of diverse individuals, serving as support and guidance within their realm of expertise.

Dr. Ruben Alejandro Superintendent of Schools, Weslaco ISD

Edna X. De Saro Senior Vice President and Marketing Director, Lone Star National Bank

Dr. Manuel Gomez, Jr. Member, Board of Directors, Region One ESC

John Guevara Partner Attorney, Linebarger Goggan Blair & Sampson, LLP

Dr. Velma Menchaca, Ph. D. Chair & Professor - Department of Educational Leadership, The University of Texas-Pan American

George H. McShan Member, Harlingen CISD Board of Trustees / Educational Consultant

Angelica Perez Edinburg CISD Gifted & Talented Specialist

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Texas Scholars Magazine | Summer 2014

Texas Scholars Magazine | Summer 2014

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h e a lt h c o r n e r

THIS SCHOOL YEAR

make breakfast a priority By: Amanda Celine Longoria, RDN, LD, CDE

ccording to a survey by the USDA, 93 percent of Americans believe that breakfast is the most important meal of the day. Yet only 44 percent of Americans eat breakfast daily, and 20 percent of school children do not eat breakfast regularly. Breakfast breaks the overnight fast and fuels both body and brain for your daily activities. Frantic mornings often lead to skipping breakfast, so plan ahead. Stock your kitchen with the ingredients to try some of the following recipes:

A

When you’re short on time and running out the door to school or work:

Get Up and Go! Green Smoothie INGREDIENTS

DIRECTIONS

½ 8-inch (large) banana 1 cup skim milk 1 cup frozen pineapple 3 cups spinach or kale

1. Combine all ingredients in a blender.

2. Blend until smooth.

3. Add water, as needed, until desired thickness is achieved.

Nutrition Facts: 275 Calories, 45 grams carbohydrate Approximate Cost: $1.63 Compare to: $3.49 + tax for fast food fruit smoothie You save $2.15!

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Texas Scholars Magazine | Summer 2014

When you have five minutes to prepare breakfast in the morning:

Bean & Egg Taco INGREDIENTS

DIRECTIONS

Nonstick cooking spray ½ cup fat-free refried pinto beans, canned 1 extra large egg 1 100% whole wheat tortilla 1 cup romaine lettuce, shredded ½ cup tomatoes, diced

1. Heat skillet on stove to medium heat. Coat with nonstick cooking spray.

2. Add refried beans to skillet, then add egg and scramble.

3. Heat tortilla on stovetop.

4. Place egg and bean mixture in tortilla. Top with plenty of lettuce and tomato.

Nutrition Facts: 300 Calories, 30 grams carbohydrate Approximate Cost: $0.75 Compare to: $2.53 + tax for 1 fast food breakfast taco You save $1.99!

On a Saturday morning before your morning walk or work-out:

Whole Wheat Banana Pancake Stack Recipe Yield: about 13 pancakes

INGREDIENTS

DIRECTIONS

2 cups 100% whole wheat flour 3 Tablespoons brown sugar 1 ½ teaspoons baking powder ½ teaspoon baking soda 2 large bananas (8 inches each) 1 ½ cups skim milk 1 Tablespoon canola oil 2 eggs Nonstick cooking spray

1. Combine dry ingredients (first 4 ingredients) in a large bowl.

2. Combine moist ingredients (remaining ingredients, except cooking spray) in a medium bowl.

3. Add moist ingredients to dry ingredients.

Stir to combine.

4. Heat pan on stove to medium heat. Coat with nonstick cooking spray. Pour 1/3 cup portions of batter into pan. Top with banana slices.

5. Once the bottom side is golden brown, flip pancake over so banana side is facing down.

Cook until golden brown.

Suggested Portion: 3 pancakes with 1 cup coffee and ½ cup skim milk Nutrition Facts: 400 Calories, 60 grams carbohydrate Approximate Cost: $0.47 Compare to: $3.48 + tax for fast food hotcake plate (3) with coffee You save $3.30!

Food is our fuel. Include a balanced breakfast every morning to give your body the jump start it needs, and you will feel more focused, energized, productive and positive. If you’re running late, grab a piece of fresh fruit, nonfat yogurt, low-fat string cheese, hardboiled egg, or a small handful of unsalted nuts. Your body will thank you for it later.

Amanda Celine Longoria, RDN, LD, CDE, is a registered and licensed dietitian nutritionist and certified diabetes educator at Joslin Diabetes Center at Doctors Hospital at Renaissance in Edinburg, Texas. She is a graduate of McAllen Memorial High School and The University of Texas at Austin. Write to Amanda at info@txscholarsmag.com with your comments and questions about nutrition and health.

5525 Doctors Drive / Edinburg, TX 78539

(956)362-5650 / www.dhr-rgv.com

Doctors Hospital at Renaissance proudly meets the federal definition of a “physician-owned hospital” (42 CFR § 489.3). physicians on our| outstanding medical 9 staff Texas The Scholars Magazine Summer 2014 are not employees or agents of the hospital contractors whose professional relationship is directly with the patient.

OSCAR LORENZO AND ALONZO ISAAC ALANIZ Rio Hondo’s Alaniz Brothers Tee Off

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Texas Scholars Magazine | Summer 2014

GOLF IS WIDELY CONSIDERED A GREAT FAMILY SPORT. FOR BROTHERS OSCAR AND ALONZO ALANIZ, THIS COULDN’T RING MORE TRUE, AS BOTH HAVE PLAYED MANY ROUNDS OF GOLF TOGETHER AT LOCAL GOLF COURSES THROUGHOUT THE RIO GRANDE VALLEY.

O

scar, the elder of the brothers, is 15 years old. Oscar attends Rio Hondo High School and just completed his sophomore year. He became the first two time district champion for the Rio Hondo Bobcats, leading his team to the Region 4 Regionals Tournament held in Corpus Christi.

During the golf season, Oscar led all golfers in his district with a 79.5 scoring average. At the Regionals Tournament, Oscar carded a 79/75 to finish 7th out of 96 golfers, just three strokes from qualifying for state.

Although he did not qualify for state, his season was still a success. He was rewarded by being named 1st team All District, District MVP, and 2nd Team All Valley.

This summer, Oscar is giving back to the community by helping out at Junior Golf Clinics held at Tony Butler and Treasure Hills Golf Club. His brother, Alonzo, has also helped teach kids at both these clinics with Oscar.

Alonzo has come off a good year, qualifying for the STPGA Championship held at Cypress Golf Club in Houston, Texas, shooting an 85. What is special about this tournament for Alonzo is that his older brother, Oscar, was able to be his caddie throughout the tournament.

Alonzo Isaac Alaniz

Oscar Lorenzo Alaniz

Texas Scholars Magazine | Summer 2014

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leaders

Recently voted as 2014” “Best TV Personality in the VMS Readers’ Choice Awards

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Texas Scholars Magazine | Summer 2014

MARCY

MARTINEZ we’re all one big family

By: Eder Castillo

I’m so proud to say I was born and raised in the Rio Grande Valley,” said Mary Martinez. “More specifically, Harlingen, because this area is all about family and community, and I’m a product of that.” The Harlingen High School South alumna and Action 4 News anchor graduated from HHSS in 1996 before heading off to Kingsville where she attended Texas A&M University Kingsville, receiving her Bachelor of Arts in Communications. “I chose Texas A&M University Kingsville because I had basically grown up around the university. My parents, sisters, and their husbands went to school there. I knew it was the place I would fit in and thrive. It was a second home for me.

Texas Scholars Magazine | Summer 2014

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M

artinez comes from a family of educators . Her mother taught kinder and two of her three siblings have a teaching background as well.

“My sister Melissa is a 5th grade teacher and absolutely adored by each of her students,” said Martinez. “My sister Marisa became an elementary teacher after graduating college and worked her way up to Principal, and she is currently attending school for her doctorate in hopes of becoming a superintendent. My little sister Melinda got her degree in communications and is a stay at home mom for now.”

Both of Martinez’s parents have played a significant role in her life. “My mother was instrumental in so many young lives that I knew whatever I pursued as a career I had to make a difference like she did,” said Martinez. “Dad is the leader of this all-female group! He’s been an entrepreneur, a grant writer, a member of city government, but more importantly, he’s the man who is always there for his girls.” Although Martinez did ponder becoming a teacher after graduating college, that was not her first choice before heading to Kingsville.

“I went to college with the idea I was going to be a professional singer! No, really. I was a music major and had a scholarship for it, but after my first semester, I knew I wasn’t going to make a career of it,” said Martinez. “An advisor asked me what else I was good at and I said ‘talking,’ and I became a communications major right then and there and well, the rest is history.”

Martinez wasted no time after receiving her degree, returning home and becoming a news anchor with KGBT-TV at the age of 22. “I did consider teaching when I first graduated from college because I was a substitute 14

Texas Scholars Magazine | Summer 2014

Marcy receiving the 2014 Media Honor Roll award from Mercedes ISD. Pictured with: Superintendent Dr. Dan Trevino

teacher momentarily before being hired

by KGBT-TV. I loved the interaction with children, but I had an opportunity to go into television and I took it.”

shooting and editing her stories without the assistance of photographers or editors, making her a multi-media journalist. (MMJ)

Martinez started as a morning anchor at KGBT. Through dedication, Martinez worked her way up,becoming an anchor for the evening news. “Working at Action 4 News has been a blessing” Martinez said. “Hard work, but very rewarding, especially being able to co-anchor with some of the anchors and weather personalities I had watched growing up. I was the morning anchor for five years then moved to evenings where I work now as one of the main anchors at 6 and 10 p.m. It’s been such a grand learning experience over the past 13 years. Broadcast news has changed dramatically during the time I’ve been here.” With that experience, Martinez uses her expanded skill set,

Through her exemplary work, Martinez gained praise through the community receiving several awards. “Mercedes ISD has given me the Media Honor Roll Award twice in my news career, and I also received the award from Edcouch-Elsa ISD a few years back,” said Martinez. “The award is for fair and balanced reporting about public schools and I’m absolutely honored that I’ve received it from multiple school districts.” Another accolade Martinez has in her distinguished career is serving as the Master of Ceremonies for the past seven years. This is for the RGV Partnership’s award ceremony for the salutatorian’s and valedictorian’s from across the RGV.

“Every year it’s so exciting to see the top students all in one room together, they are the future of the valley and that’s why we encourage them to go out and get their degrees and find their career paths, but to come back home to share that knowledge by working here and becoming leaders in the communities where they were supported their entire lives.”

With over 14,000 followers on twitter and more than 50,000 followers on her Facebook fan page, Martinez knows how big of a role social media plays in today’s society. “Media is now social media, and even we as television personalities realize people are going to their Facebook or Twitter pages first for news, so we’ve adapted and Action 4 News is one of the leading stations on social media,” said Martinez. “Elementary- aged students are learning to get their news from these sites. I believe it opens up a whole new world of education for them since many don’t sit in front of a TV to watch the news, but they will scroll through their feed on social media and see a story from KGBT pop up and it may peak their interest.”

Recently voted as “Best TV Personality 2014” in the VMS Readers’ Choice Awards, look for Martinez to keep providing the RGV with the latest up to date news with Action 4 News.

Not only does Martinez love the community she works for, but also believes that, “We’re all one big family.”

May 2014 UTPA Spring Graduation Master of Ceremonies.

Pictured with: UTPA President Dr. Robert S. Nelsen Texas Scholars Magazine | Summer 2014

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e d u cat o r s

Celeste Sanchez

SAN BENITO’S FIRST FEMALE MAYOR By: Eder Castillo

This past May, the citizens of San Benito, Texas elected their first female mayor, Celeste Zepeda Sanchez. Sanchez, who is the former San Benito City Commissioner and current SBCISD Assistant Superintendent of Curriculum and Instruction, has been involved in education for over 45 years. Since she was just a child, Sanchez knew she wanted to be involved with education.

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Texas Scholars Magazine | Summer 2014

W

hen I was little, I would sit my dolls down and play school with them,” said Sanchez. “My mother only had an elementary education and my dad a middle school education, I believe stopping at the 8th grade, but they always valued education.” Sanchez graduated from San Benito High School, receiving her associate’s degree from Texas Southmost College and then transferred to Texas A&I University (which is currently Texas A&M University-Kingsville) where she received her bachelor’s and master’s degree. Along with her parents and her sister, Sanchez’s grandparents played a major influence in her education, helping pay for her first year of college.

Growing up, Sanchez came across difficult situations but had a mindset of seeing those situations as challenges. “My mother brought us up with dichos” (Spanish for ‘sayings’), Sanchez said. “She would always tell me, “El que es buen gallo, en cualquier gallinero canta, y tu eres un gallo.” Anytime I wanted something but I didn’t get it, like class president, homecoming queen, or prom queen, she would tell me that saying. At the time, I didn’t know what it meant, but later I knew what she meant...”I could make it happen anywhere.”

When Sanchez first began her educational career as a teacher at Ben Milam Elementary in Harlingen, she was a single parent raising three children (Art, Carlos and Luis). She knew she wanted to climb the career ladder, so she devoted herself to her children and her career. “I knew I wanted my children to have the same opportunities that I had. Going to college and having a good career,” Sanchez said.

After starting off as a teacher, Sanchez then became a teacher facilitator before becoming an assistant principal. Sanchez then moved to Lansing, Michigan, where she attended and taught at Michigan State University. Returning to San Benito after teaching eight years at MSU, Sanchez became a reading supervisor. Sanchez then went on to become the Gifted and Talented director for San Benito when Gifted and Talented became a mandate.

Sanchez continued to climb her career ladder as she applied and got a position to be an assistant superintendent in San Antonio, Texas. After eight years in San Antonio, Sanchez’s parents became ill, so she took the opportunity to apply at San Benito and return home. While serving as assistant superintendent, Sanchez ran for city commission, where she served for seven years.

“In the two years I was off the city commission, people kept asking me to run for mayor,” said Sanchez. “When I announced I was retiring, it was like perfect. I can now run for mayor. I had a good constituency base and respect from people in the community, so I said, why not?” Sanchez went on to win the election, becoming the first female mayor of the city of San Benito.

” I am very proud, because I feel like I have opened the door to other females “ said Sanchez. “If I climb, I pull with me. In 105 years there had never been a female mayor in San Benito, and now I have shown that it is possible, that we can think, analyze, synthesize, evaluate and make sound decisions.”

As mayor of San Benito, Sanchez hopes to make an impact and help the city improve. “I ran on the platform of a better San Benito, and I think my vision is like everybody else’s vision when we were young,” said Sanchez. “It’s the vision of a self-sustaining community, a community of choice, where people want to live in San Benito and they want to live here because we have good safe streets, good schools, shopping amenities, parks and a good way of life. So that’s what I’m going to work toward.”

Texas Scholars Magazine | Summer 2014

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students

student spotlight

Robyn CHELSEA

RAMIREZ M E C A S t u d e n t F i n d s E a r ly S u c c e s s a t S T C

M

y name is Robyn Chelsea Ramirez. I am the daughter of Irma and Ruben Ramirez. I have grown up in Mercedes, and am currently a member of the Mercedes Tiger band and NHS. I attend Mercedes Early College Academy. Their goal is to have each of their students graduate with an associate’s degree by the time they finish high school.

By doing this, students are offered a college experience. It’s nice to have more freedom, but that doesn’t make school any easier. Deciding to attend an early college has affected my high school experience in more ways than I ever could have imagined. The decisions I’m currently making, involving my education, will either open doors or close them. My future 18

Texas Scholars Magazine | Summer 2014

is entirely in my own hands, and there’s more trust that I will complete my work. In college level courses, there is more freedom, and it results in a more self-driven attitude from the students. A higher education is all about how strong one wants it, and that is where the responsibility of going and getting it comes in. Usually, the shift from high school to

college is a big leap because most students aren’t used to having that responsibility falling completely on their shoulders, but I’m hopeful that, with my current experiences, making that transition will be a little bit easier.

“

With the future arising and my college education already in my hands, it is important to have some idea in what I want to do in my life. .

“

Truthfully, I am still confused, but I think that is better than rushing into something I’m not 100 percent about. For future careers, I’ve pondered the idea of becoming a postsecondary music teacher or a mental health counselor. These two stick out to me more than anything because I’m passionate about band and I can see myself working with music for the rest of my life. At the same time, however, I love helping people and making a positive impact in their lives. These two careers are still only ideas, and as I change, so will my vision for the future.

I have been inspired by so many people and things around me that it wouldn’t be fair to point out just one. There are historical figures, books, inventors, and activists that have all contributed in shaping my idea of what I should do with my capabilities and opportunities The people who have made the biggest impacts in my life most definitely include my family. My older brothers are both incredibly intelligent and have extended my vocabulary while exposing me to topics that the average teenager wouldn’t hear about. My parents, especially my mother, have made it a point time and time again to remind me that my education is important. There are high standards in my house that, although difficult to meet, have pushed me to my greatest capabilities. My friends have also been incredibly supportive and have been there for me through all the late nights of stress and exhaustion. They’ve always been there to keep me level-headed and help me relax when I’m overworked. I wouldn’t be able to accomplish what I have without the support of my friends, family, and my teachers.

Texas Scholars Magazine | Summer 2014

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leaders

George McShan

Over 30 Years of Visionary Leaders hip

G

eorge McShan has lived in Harlingen for over 40 years and was employed 32 years at Texas State Technical College - Harlingen, the last 20 years as college dean. He has served on the HCISD Board of Trustees since 1988. He has served in every officer position, including six different times as President. During his tenure, numerous honors have been bestowed on the board, including the recognition of Best Board in Texas 1993 and Superintendent of the Year 1993. In 1998-1999, he was elected President of the Texas Association of School Boards, its first African American, and in 2004, he was elected President of the National School Boards Association, only the second Texan to hold this position in its 66-year history.

He has a successful record of visionary leadership and accomplishment in facilitating partnerships and collaborative initiatives with public school districts, higher education institutions, businesses within the industry. His ability to motivate, and empower ordinary people to achieve extraordinary results is invaluable. Over the years, McShan has demonstrated success in working with college faculty, public school teachers, administrators, Texas Higher Education Coordinating Board staff, students and community leaders for decision making and management. This native Texan has a strong history of being able to work well with multicultural groups at all levels and has an affinity for organizational diversity.

His ability to work with elected officials and policy makers at the local, state and national levels adds to his extensive professional experience.

He has even worked closely with the U. S. Department of 20

Texas Scholars Magazine | Summer 2014

Education and former Secretary, Rod Paige, in facilitating collaborative partnerships with the National School Boards Association McShan has extensive experience in curriculum development, new program implementation, management and supervision of faculty and staff in instructional application of technology in educating students. His peers recognize in him a strong work ethic, enthusiasm and energy to sustain high visibility.

The Harlingen resident has a proven success record as a public servant, fundraiser, public speaker with community support from the public and private sector.

In 2006, he was selected to receive the TASB Celebration of Leadership Award, which honors school board members who have made a significant contribution to their community. In 2006, he was the recipient of the Annual National Hispanic

Caucus (Abrazo) Award for outstanding leadership, as well as the recipient of the Lifetime PTA Membership for Texas and the National PTA Association. McShan is certified as a Master School Board Trustee by TASB and is a registered provider by the Texas Education Agency for School Board/ Superintendent training. According to McShan, he has been blessed to have the opportunity to serve in a great community that values and invests in public education. When he ran for the school board in 1988, his message was “Every Student Can Succeed”. Little did he know at the time that he would be in a position to be the nation’s advocate for all 47 million children who attend public schools. “The shaping of America’s future through our public education system will require collaborative initiatives that are more comprehensive in scope than ever before. There is no greater good, than the investment in America’s most precious and priceless resource - our children,”said McShan.

“This is why I serve, and it is my vision and passion to see the dreams of all children become a reality in this global society. It’s not necessarily the place that matters, but it’s the people that matter. I’m here and I focus on the people and the young people are a part of that. I want to make sure that everybody has an opportunity to reach their potential. I say that every child should have the opportunity to reach their hopes and dreams in life.

But, when the opportunity comes, they have to be prepared. That’s why they must have a high quality education.”

“I say, with everything that we do, we have to make sure that our moral compass is clear. That we treat people with dignity, respect and honor, regardless of ethnicity, gender, orientation or religion.”

Texas Scholars Magazine | Summer 2014

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VOTE

VOTE

Advocacy AllianceCenter Center of Texas Advocacy Alliance of Texas

YOUR VOTE. VOTE. YOUR YOUR YOURVOICE. VOICE.

E Nolana Avenue, Suite 430 956-664-2228 aactnow.org 612612 E Nolana Avenue, Suite 430 956-664-2228 aactnow.org

Scan the QR code to see if you’re registered!

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Texas Scholars Magazine | Summer 2014

Texas Scholars Magazine | Summer 2014

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THE CHALLENGER LEARNING CENTER IS

READY FOR LAUNCH TO BOOK SCHOOL TOURS OR MORE INFORMATION CALL 9 5 6 - 3 6 4 - 4 5 1 7 OR EMAIL ADAN.TREVINO@TSTC.EDU

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Texas Scholars Magazine | Summer 2014