Argyle Insights by Murray Media Group

FALL | WINTER 2021

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Fall | Winter 2021 • Argyle Insights •

ARGYLE

BOARD OF

TRUSTEES

GET TO

KNOW ARGYLE ISD

he Argyle Board meetings are scheduled for the third Monday of each month at 7:00 p.m. in the Board Room of the AISD Administration Building, 800 Eagle Drive, Argyle, Texas 76226. Time is allotted each month for public comments. For additional information and the next scheduled meeting, contact the Superintendent’s office at 940.464.7241.

Sam Slaton Board President

Dr. John Bitter Vice President

Chris Daniel Deputy Superintendent

Dr. Deana Steeber Assistant Superintendent

Elizabeth Stewart Chief Financial Officer

Dona Lumsden Hilltop Elementary Principal

Renee Funderburg Argyle West Elementary Principal

Dr. Dawn Jordan Argyle Intermediate School Principal

Scott Gibson Argyle Middle School Principal

Craig Hawkesworth Secretary

Brad Lowry Trustee

John King Argyle High School Principal

Todd Rodgers Athletic Director & Head Football Coach

Chance Westmoreland Girls Athletic Coordinator

Jason Bird AISD Band Director

Jeff Williams Trustee

Dr. Leona McDade Trustee

Rick Herrin Communications Director

Pamela Arrington Marketing Director

Greg Royar Technology Director

Albert Rutledge Transportation Director

Tommy Ledford Maintenance Director

Amy Bresnahan Student Nutrition Director

Dr. Mark Ruggles Special Education Director

Chief Cairney AISD Police Chief

Ritchie Deffenbaugh Trustee

Dr. Telena Wright Superintendent

• Argyle Insights • Fall | Winter 2021

TABLE OF PUBLISHERS Scott & Kelly Murray EDITORS Jana Melton Bobbi Byrne Rick Herrin CONTRIBUTORS Argyle ISD Steve Gamel The Talon News ADVERTISING Kelly Murray kelly@murray-media.com

On the Cover In order from L to R - Ethan Payne, Zach Tait, Tristan Ball, Rhylee Mullenix, Katherine Garner, Will Ramsey and Eli Valentino

Photo by: Pamela Arrington

PRODUCTION Graphic Designers Mish Cunningham-Scott Cayla Thompson Caroline Brock Letters AISD Insights welcomes reader feedback, story suggestions and general comments. Email artwork@argyleinsights.com. All submissions become the sole property of Murray Media Group.

Argyle ISD News

Borad of Trustees

National Arts in Education

A Message from Dr. Wright

Board Approves COVID Leave

New Eagle Academy

Editorial and advertising inquiries call 972.899.3637 or email your photos, stories, student spotlights and suggestions to artwork@argyleinsights.com by: February 1, 2022 for your chance to be featured.

AHS Principal Update

Argyle United Methodist Church

Argyle Middle School Principal

UIL Lone Star Cup Championship

Convocation 2021

AHS National Merit Semifinalists

Money Matters

New Argyle High School

Argyle High's New Coffee Bar

AHS Band Update

Eagle Basketball

Argyle Intermediate School Principal

Argyle West Elementary Principal

Argyle Education Foundation

Eagle District Partners

Hilltop Elementary Principal

Address: 3513 Yucca Drive, Suite 200 Flower Mound, TX 75028

Published by Murray Media Group. Opinions expressed in articles or advertisements do not necessarily reflect the opinion of the publisher or the Argyle Independent School District. AISD Insights is not responsible for omissions or information that has been misrepresented to the magazine. Advertisers and its agencies assume all liability for advertising content. No part of this publication may be reproduced or transmitted without the permission in writing from the publisher. © 2021 Murray Media Group. www.Murray-Media.com

Fall | Winter 2021 • Argyle Insights •

a message from

Dr. Wright I

am so excited to start a brand new school year! Every school year is special and filled with memorymaking experiences and exciting learning opportunities. The 2021-2022 school year is filled with many changes in AISD. First, we have completed the exchange of the middle school and high school campuses. In 2016, Phase I of the HS opened at 6601 Canyon Falls to serve middle school students in Grades 6-8. Five years later, Phase II of Argyle High School has been completed, and the Canyon Falls campus will now serve Grades 9-12. Middle school students have shifted to the South Highway 377 campus. This campus served as the high school during the last five school years. The middle school enrollment projection is 1,023 by October 2021 and 1,315 students by October for high school. Due to the large growth at West Elementary School, 5th grade from West was moved to 800 Eagle Drive to join the 5th-graders from the Hilltop Elementary attendance zone to create a 5th grade6

• Argyle Insights • Fall | Winter 2021

only campus. Hilltop will serve grades Pre-Kindergarten-4th grade just as West Elementary will this year. AISD is providing only face-to-face instruction this year, with mask-wearing optional for all students and employees. Parents can determine whether or not to quarantine a well child who has been in close contact with a positive COVID-19 case. Students who are ill will be required to remain home for the quarantine period. Please continue to monitor the health of your children throughout the school year. Change marked the first day of school. Vacation is over; waking up early and going to bed early is the new norm; and students are back in school away from home in a new environment. Educators recognize along with parents that with all these changes during the back-toschool season, students need our support more than ever before. There are several positive phrases that students need to hear. Students need to understand that you along with us are proud of them. They need to hear that success is possible and

within their control. School is a place for them to learn new things and make new friends. For those who are uneasy and possibly returning from a year of virtual instruction, they need to hear that at the end of the day they will get to go home and be with their family. Look for opportunities to share your day with your children. They are interested in what you do as well as sharing with you. We encourage your attendance at meetings and events. If your child is playing a sport or participating in a concert or program, share that moment with them. You are our partners in educating your children, and we want to encourage you to contact us anytime that you have questions or concerns. Have a wonderful school year Eagles! Dr. Telena Wright Argyle ISD Superintendent

AHS PRINCIPAL UPDATE

MR. JOHN KING I

would like to take this opportunity to personally welcome everyone back to the 2021-22 school year! The new year brings with it a tremendous amount of changes and opportunities, and we are excited to start the year. Argyle High School opened its doors to over 1,300 students in August – by far, the most in school history. Over the course of the summer months, AHS successfully moved from the Highway 377 location to its new home in Canyon Falls. The new building is absolutely beautiful and will be a blessing to our community for many years to come. We plan to have the official ribbon-cutting during the fall, and we hope you will make plans to be a part of this community celebration. The growth of student enrollment on our campus has resulted in the need for additional faculty, coaches, and staff. This year, we have added approximately 25 new faces on our campus, and I believe that we have put together one of the best groups of teachers in the entire state. I believe that you will find that our faculty

is truly here to help Argyle High School continue its tradition of excellence that we are accustomed to year in and year out. Our student-athletes and fine arts members have already put in a great amount of work over the summer and early fall. Games, events, and competitions have already experienced a great amount of success at AHS. Our football team and band are both primed and ready to defend their state championships from last year. The rest of our teams and groups have their sights on championships as well, and this is already shaping up to be a great year as AISD sets its eyes on a record 10th straight UIL Lone Star Cup. As always, I want to thank you for the opportunity to work with your student this year. It is a privilege and an honor to help

lead Argyle High School. I want you to know that my door is always open, and I welcome your input on the happenings of our school. Thank you for your continued support – GO EAGLES!

John King Principal Argyle High

Fall | Winter 2021 • Argyle Insights •

ARGYLE UNITED

METHODIST

CHURCH Eagle Partner Spotlight

rgyle ISD welcomes the Argyle United Methodist Church to the Eagle Partner family. Argyle UMC signed on as a District/Platinum Level Eagle Partner at the end of last school year. Their partnership supports the teachers, students and staff in Argyle ISD. They have also given many hours helping out with district events.

Argyle United Methodist Church is more than just the church building you see on HWY 377 in Argyle. They are part of a much bigger church family - the North Texas Conference. Pastor Rick Williamson was appointed to Argyle United Methodist Church in 2020 which was a tough year for transition, but a challenge he willingly and excitedly stepped into. His leadership and genuine excitement for life has brought an energy to the church that is very tangible. “When attendees come on a Sunday morning, they can feel the love and energy reverberate through not just his sermons, but worship and the people in the sanctuary, the foyer, the classrooms, and beyond,” said Alice Nalepka Communications Director for Argyle UMC. As an intergenerational church, they encourage people of every age, from 2 to 102 to be part of worship and our church family. “We want our children to know what it means to worship with their parents, their grandparents and their church family as a whole.” We want 8

• Argyle Insights • Fall | Winter 2021

them to grow in their knowledge and love of Christ and through Argyle Kids, Argyle Youth and Adult Life, every child of every age gets the opportunity to do just that. Everything we do, from what times we worship to our summer camp, ARK, we stress the importance of being in community with one another as we grow in our faith,” said Nalepka.

SUNDAYS 9AM (a Traditional) 11AM(Modern) To be a member of Argyle United Methodist Church means connecting to Jesus, others and ministry and how they do that is what makes them unique. Just like their church is part of more than just what you see as you drive by, so is their church family. They are not just the pastor and the staff that come in and out of the office throughout the week making decisions for the entirety of the church. They are partnered with their laity

- church members who have committed to being the church to ensure they continually grow and thrive. Their goal is to help people find their passions, what really truly drives them, and allow them to serve Christ in that way. “We encourage everyone of every age to grow in their faith. We believe in order to do this, you come to worship once a week, be part of a weekly Adult Life (or Argyle Kids or Argyle Youth Group) and serve once a month or in a larger role for a mission project, you can live out your faith at Argyle United Methodist Church”, said Nalepka. Argyle United Methodist Church has been part of Argyle for more than a century. From its early beginnings in 1894 when it was established by 27 members, Argyle UMC continues to strive to be the church for all. Just as those who founded the little Church on the Hill in the 1800’s had a love for this community and Christ, so does their current pastor, staff and laity. As Argyle United Methodist Church grows and flourishes within its walls, they have become more restless. Restless in the sense that they have so much more to give and to be than just the church within the church walls. They are passionate

about sharing God’s love with more than just themselves. They want to be a church that puts their community’s needs at the forefront of what they do and helps to ensure they thrive and know God’s love for them. To be an Eagle Partner for Argyle ISD is a big part of Argyle United Methodist Church making this goal a reality. Just like within their church, the children, teachers, and staff within the schools mean so much to them. They want to be a place where you can count on them and you know that they are there to support not only in the learning of Christ, but in all aspects of life.

ARK, Argyle Kids, & Argyle Youth

Argyle Recreation 4 Kids (ARK) is their 8 week summer camp. 2022 will be their fourth year running it and there is no greater joy they find than being able to offer a safe, fun space for their community

of kids ages 3-4th grade. From Lego Camp to Spa Science Camp, Unicorn Camp and Sports Camp, things don’t slow down during the summer for them, but rev right up! After ARK camp quiets down, they are fully fledged in the fall and spring semesters with Argyle Kids and Argyle Youth Programs. This year their Student Ministry Activity Center is getting a huge makeover! A space that has housed hundreds of hours of fun for their kids and youth is about to be even better. Their children are so important to them and helping them to grow in their faith is something they strive to do through all of their programs. Whether it's Sunday Night worship for their youth, Bible Sunday, their Confirmation Class (for 7th graders) or the numerous retreats they have, they all help to Connect the children to not only Jesus, but to Others, and the Ministry!

Fall | Winter 2021 • Argyle Insights •

wife and spending time with his family. Rick was drawn back into the ministry out of his desire to see people get to a better place in life, and believes that the church is the best place for that to happen. He considers his time in the church as a Pastor, and his time in business to be a great asset in understanding people. Rick knows what it is like on both sides of the pulpit.

Eventually, Rick went to and graduated from Baylor University in 1982 and then graduated from Southern Baptist Theological Seminary in 1985. Upon graduation from seminary, Rick was ordained to the Gospel ministry. In 1995, he received a Doctor of Ministry Degree from San Francisco Presbyterian Theological Seminary, Originally, Rick was trained as a Pastoral Therapist, but soon sensed his call to the local church. From 1987 to 2003, Rick served two churches as an Associate Pastor and three churches as Sr. Pastor. In 2003, after being a change agent for churches, Rick went into business as a residential mortgage loan officer for many years. Eventually, Rick found his way back into full-time ministry, but this time in United Methodist Church. In 2014. Rick was appointed as pastor to Anna UMC for three years. In 2017, he went to First United Methodist Church, Coppell as Associate Pastor. Finally, in 2020, Rick was appointed to Argyle United Methodist Church where he loves the people, the church, and the

Rev. Dr. Rick Williamson Pastor Richard “Rick” Williamson was born in Kittery, Maine into a career Navy family. As he grew up, he lived in many places around the United States. At the age of 16, he committed his life to following the ways of Christianity. 10

• Argyle Insights • Fall 2021

broader community. Pastor Rick is married to Liz Rourke. Rick has three biological children, and one step-daughter. Happily, he also has one biological granddaughter and two step grandchildren. He loves traveling with his

Associate Pastor, Jennifer Stevens

Jennifer Stevens was born and raised in Denton, Texas. She heard a call into ministry at a young age and after a few minor detours, she now serves as a Licensed Local Pastor in the United Methodist Church. Jennifer joined the staff of Argyle UMC in 2016 as the Director of Children’s Ministry and now serves as the Associate Pastor of the church. Serving in a community with a reputation for excellence and drive to succeed has been complimentary to Jennifer’s desire to connect people deeply into a relationship with a God who loves them, not for what they accomplish but for who they are. From singing Jesus Loves Me in the 2 year old classroom to praying with those homebound members in the ending stages of life, Jennifer is driven to support all on their journey to know Jesus. Jennifer is married to John (the church sound guy!) and they live in Denton with their two boys Cade (10) and Case (8), two dogs Barry and Iris and the cat Ottis. In her free time Jennifer enjoys hiking with her family, reading and cooking!

PLAYING HOW TO PROPERLY HANDLE CONCUSSIONS

omehow fall is here and sports have started again! Despite a very unique and stressful past year, it’s time to get kids active again if they haven’t already done so. With that comes safety precautions we need to be aware of. Concussion is a traumatic brain injury that is caused by either a blow to the head, a violent shake to the head or body, or it can simply be caused by a jarring movement of the brain. Loss of consciousness may or may not be associated with concussions. Even though American football has the reputation of being the sport that has the highest risk of concussion, the rate is lower than what one would think. The risk is similar to other youth sports such as soccer, hockey, basketball, baseball, rugby, wrestling, lacrosse and cheerleading to name a few.

Concussions can also happen with other activities such as a violent roller coaster, bike riding, skateboarding or tree climbing.

Here are some important signs and symptoms to look for after a bump or jolt to the head: Clumsiness Headache or pressure in the head

If your child experiences any of these symptoms they should be evaluated by a medical provider. CT scans are usually not necessary if someone suspects a concussion as CT scans will not confirm a concussion. It can however diagnose intracranial bleeding or a fracture that can happen with severe concussions. If your child is diagnosed with a concussion, they will be asked to follow specific guidelines in order to return to play. It is extremely important to follow these guidelines. If another concussion happens before the brain has time to properly heal, the person can suffer long term-impairment, such as forgetfulness, “foggy” thinking, difficulty concentrating, balance issues, difficulty focusing and even depression. This all may sound really scary, but the truth is concussions are not as common as one may think. It is far more important for the mind and body to have kids be active. So let’s get those kiddos out there exercising and enjoying all the benefits of a healthy and active lifestyle!

Confusion / memory loss (unable to recall plays, forgets instruction/ position of the game, score) Nausea and/or vomiting Dizziness or blurred vision Bothered by light or noise Feeling sluggish or groggy Just “not feeling right” or “feeling down”

940.455.7200 | LantanaPediatrics.com 74 McMakin Rd., Ste. 100 • Bartonville, TX 76226 Mon, Tues, Thurs: 7:30am-6pm | Wed: 7:30am-1pm | Fri: 7:30am-5pm Sat: 9am-12pm Fall | Winter 2021 • Argyle Insights •

rgyle is home to the University of Interscholastic League Lone Star Cup Award for the ninth consecutive year. The Eagles are the 2021-2022 Class 4A champions and earned the award for the 11th time overall and extended its record streak to nine. The Lone Star Cup recognizes the most successful high school in each classification based on overall results in academics, fine arts and athletics. The Eagles produced 148 points to capture first place, which was the secondmost in the history of the award behind only Southlake Carroll's 150 points during the 2001-2002 school year. Canyon finished second with 108.5 points and Boerne was third with 94 points. Argyle earned state championships in football, marching band, boys' basketball and boys' and girls' golf. "I am so incredibly proud of our students, directors, and coaches for what they have accomplished in a very challenging year," Argyle ISD Superintendent Dr. Telena Wright said. "This was made possible with talented students, supportive parents and dedicated coaches, directors, and teachers." 12

• Argyle Insights • Fall | Winter 2021

Due to the COVID-19 protocols and guidelines during the 2020-2021 school year, UIL competitions were challenging for all participants. In addition to the five state championships, Argyle earned state runner-up finishes in Academics and Spirit. The award was suspended last year due to COVID-19 when UIL activities were canceled during the spring semester.

The UIL launched the Lone Star Cup award during the 1997-1998 school year. Argyle won its first Lone Star Cup in 2005-2006 in Class 2A and the streak of nine consecutive started in 2011-2012. Lone Star Cup points are awarded in Team Tennis, Cross Country, Marching Band, Volleyball, Robotics BEST, Football, Congress, Spirit, Swimming & Diving, Wrestling, Mariachi, Film, Basketball, Robotics FIRST, Soccer, Academics, One-Act Play, Theatrical Design, Track & Field, Golf, Tennis, Softball and Baseball.

Argyle also produced region finalist finishes in girls' soccer, softball and baseball. The Lady Eagles' soccer and softball teams both produced the best finishes in school history. Additionally, every Argyle athletic team qualified for the playoffs and combined for 14 district championships. Argyle's 11 Lone Star Cup awards are the second all-time behind Highland Park, which earned its 12th this year. "To win the Lone Star Cup in any year is a tremendous accomplishment for our students, coaches, and sponsors," Argyle High School Principal John King said. "But to win the Lone Star Cup in a COVID year that presented so many challenges is absolutely amazing. I am so proud of our entire school district because let's face it...it takes all of us working together to continue to have the success we have had in our academics, athletics, and fine arts." Each winning school also receives a $1,000 scholarship. Trophy presentations will take place in the fall at events chosen by the winning schools. Argyle’s Lone Star Cup Championships and Classification. The award was not given during the 2020-2021 school year due to COVID-19.

Fall | Winter 2021 • Argyle Insights •

AHS National Merit SEMIFINALISTS

our Argyle High School students have earned national academic recognition. Jasmine Ball, Alex Gomez, Bryce Roberts, and Vidit Tripathi have been named 2022 National Merit Semifinalists. This marks a school record with four honorees. These Eagles are four of approximately 16,000 Semifinalists in the 67th annual National Merit Scholarship Program. These academically talented students have an opportunity to continue in the competition for 7,500 National Merit Scholarships worth nearly $30 million that will be offered next spring. "Everyone at Argyle High School is very proud of our four National Merit Semifinalists," Argyle High School Principal John King said. "The hours and years of work that they have devoted to their academic endeavors have paid off in huge ways for these students. We wish them only the best as they move on and hopefully become National Merit Finalists." High school juniors entered the 2022 National Merit Scholarship Program by taking the 2020 Preliminary SAT/National

• Argyle Insights • Fall | Winter 2021

GROUP PHOTO - LEFT TO RIGHT Principal John King, Counselors Elizabeth Davis and Alisha Roach, National Merit Semifinalists Alex Gomez, Bryce Roberts, Vidit Tripathi and Jasmine Ball, and Counselor Margo Bigbee.

Merit Scholarship Qualifying Test (PSAT/ NMSQT®), which served as an initial screen of program entrants. The nationwide pool of Semifinalists, representing less than one percent of U.S.

high school seniors, includes the highestscoring entrants in each state. The number of semifinalists in a state is proportional to the state’s percentage of the national total of graduating seniors. To be considered for a Merit Scholarship award, semifinalists must fulfill several requirements to advance to the finalist level of the competition. About 95% of the semifinalists are expected to attain finalist standing, and approximately half of the finalists will win a National Merit Scholarship, earning the Merit Scholar title.

NEW

NEW ARGYLE HIGH SCHOOL OPENS

his year marked the beginning of a new era with the opening of Argyle High School in the Canyon Falls community. This is Phase II of the facility from the 2017 Bond and included the conversion of the campus from a middle school to a high school. The high school and the middle schools switched campuses this summer and the additional space for AHS was ready on the first day of school on August 16.

Phase II of Argyle High School includes these additions:

● Dedicated Band practice lot ● Athletic Practice Fields

● ● ● ● ● ● ● ●

This project started in July 2019. The need for a larger high school was needed based on the maximum capacity being reached at the US 377 campus. The student enrollment to begin the 2021-2022 at the new high school was 1,320. AHS is located at 6601 Canyon Falls.

New instructional wing and more than 40 additional classrooms Auditorium Black Box Theatre Band Hall Choir Room Expanded Library/Cafeteria Gymnasium Fieldhouse

Fall | Winter 2021 • Argyle Insights •

s e t a d Up

The March To State Marching Contest Has Commenced The Argyle High School Band is hard at work preparing the UIL competitive show, “The Sun, The Moon, and All The Stars,” influenced by the E.E. Commings’ poem, “You are My Sun, My Moon and All My Stars.” Students have spent hours outside as a group working on music, building relationships, and creating memories. 2021 is a special year because UIL is having a State Marching Contest for all classifications. Typically, Class 4A schools only compete for a state title during even-numbered years. This year is unique!!! Though we will only compete against our classification, the contest will last for two weeks in the Alamodome in San Antonio. If the Argyle Band qualifies, we will be in San Antonio from November 8th to the 11th competing for another UIL State Championship. We look forward to presenting our show and its progress every week at home and away games.

Upcoming High School Band Competitions 9/25 - Plano Drumline Contest Clarke Stadium 10/2 - Director’s Choice Marching Championship - CH Collins Stadium, Denton, TX 16

• Argyle Insights • Fall | Winter 2021

10/9 - Sounds of Springtown Marching Contest - Springtown High School, Springtown, TX 10/16 - UIL Region Marching Contest CH Collins Stadium, Denton, TX 10/16 - Birdville ISD Marching Festival Birdville Fine Arts and Athletic Complex, North Richland Hills, TX 10/30 - UIL Area Marching Contest - CH Collins Stadium, Denton, TX 11/10 - UIL State Marching Contest Alamodome, San Antonio, TX Introducing the

2021 AHS Drum Majors Nick Lessley and Jorge Terrazas Thank you to our Argyle Band Maestro Sponsors

Will and Leslie Woods at Magnolia Realty Jeff and Shanna Bassinger at Argyle Storage Company MIDDLE SCHOOL BAND STARTS WITH A BANG

The Argyle Middle School Honor Winds and Symphonic Band were selected first and second in the ATSSB Outstanding Performance Series. Recordings of “High School Cadets” and “Night Fury” will be distributed on a CD across the state of Texas as a reference recording for those compositions. This is a HUGE honor and is attributed to the hard work of the students involved!

BACK TO SCHOOL BAND CAMP

Incoming 7th and 8th graders participated in our back-to-school band camp! During this time, we caught up with our friends and, most importantly, had a TON of fun! Students got to work preparing music for our upcoming school year and also for pep rallies and other community events. This was a great start to the year! BEGINNER MUSICIANS GET STARTED

The band hall has been buzzing with excitement as 120+ new musicians begin their journey in the band! We have been hard at work learning all about music and our instruments! In addition to the social events and musical concepts students will learn in band, students will strengthen a number of character traits that will lead them to success in the classroom, on the field, or in the gym. There is a place for everybody in the band! We will begin to test current 5th-graders on instruments around spring break, so be on the lookout! Any questions about the Argyle High School Band program can be directed to: Jason Bird Director of Bands Argyle ISD 940-218-3578 jason.bird@argyleisd.com

ARGYLE

At AIS, we achieve, inspire, and soar!

elcome to the 2021-2022 school year! We started the year with a wonderful first day of school full of smiles and laughter and a little bit of nervousness too! The 4th-grade students from Argyle Intermediate School were thrilled to be back in class with their 4th-grade friends from AWE. They had the chance to reunite with old friends and make some new friends, too. We welcomed over 60 new families to Argyle ISD this year, so there are a lot of new faces. With over half of our students being new, we came together on the first day for an assembly. We reviewed basic information such as drop off and pick up and our new free breakfast and lunch policy. We introduced our school theme, “AIS is Out of this World!” and taught the students a dance to Space Jam. Teachers decorated their doors to match the theme, and our halls were decked out too. It was an exciting first day!

INTERMEDIATE

School Principal It is always our privilege to teach your children. It gives us great joy to watch them learn, find success, and grow in confidence. As a 5th-grade-only campus, we have the unique opportunity to meet the needs of this age group through whole-school initiatives and activities. It is also a chance for the class of 2029 to unite and get to know each other. The teachers have a daily morning meeting to help strengthen their classroom community, and each member of our school is a member of a House. Throughout the year House winners are announced and celebrated. The competition between Altruismo, Isibindi, Amistad, and Reveur can get pretty fierce! Our new students were sorted into Houses the first week of school. We wear our colors with pride every Monday! We are a student-centered community with high expectations for ourselves and our students. We prioritize student safety and strive to make sure they all feel accepted and valued. In a safe environment, students can stretch themselves, try new things, and feel comfortable making mistakes. During the “ah-ha” moments, true learning occurs. We focus on meeting students where they are academically. We implemented WIN time, What I Need time, during

the second week of school. During this block, students receive remediation or enrichment through a menu of options and small groups lessons with teachers. Whole school House meetings are held monthly, as well. The topics mirror the topics presented in the counselor’s guidance lessons to help our students grow emotionally and socially as they prepare for middle school. We are so happy that we are able to have visitors and volunteers back in our buildings! We have missed the positive energy they bring into our school. We are looking forward to opportunities to bring parents, grandparents, and community members together to support our students’ educational journey. Together, we can make greatness happen in Argyle ISD!

Dr. Dawn Jordan Principal Argyle Intermediate Fall | Winter 2021 • Argyle Insights •

argyle Education Foundation Says thank you to our 2021 AEF Month Sponsors

THE COLES FAMILY The Westrom Family

The Burns Family

Shane & Michelle Underwood

The Pritschow Family

Marc & Carley Buxton The McMellian Family Matt & Melanie Murray Randy & Erin Quinn The Sanchez Family

Gary & Shelley Kline

John & Debra Ross

Curtis & Catherine Strange Lindsay & Taylor White The Brower-Zavzavadjian Family Tim & Allie Copeland John & Jody Bellinghausen

Craig & Marla Hawkesworth

Zach & Amber Sams The Head Family The Lawson Family

www.SupportArgyleISD.org 18

• Argyle Insights • Fall | Winter 2021

HILLTOP ELEMENTARY

illtop Elementary truly is one of the best places in the world. The positive energy shared by students, faculty, and staff is contagious, and we are so glad to have a building full of friends to share each day! One of the new traditions that we have continued from last year is celebrating our grandparents through our grade level grandparents parade. What an amazing experience to see the smiles of our students as well as the grandparents as they drove through our campus. The incredibly creative signs made by students and the car decorations are out of this world! We have seen faces and names of students on cars, balloons, confetti, and even Facetime with grandparents on mobile devices. By spreading the parades during the week out, we were able to not rush the cars through and allow time for some quick photos along the way.

Our families have been so creative in making this a positive experience for their children. Even for grandparents who couldn’t make it, families showed up with signs to represent and other creative ways to make it work. That is the Hilltop Spirit, thinking outside the box to make every day a positive one. Sometimes great traditions come from trying times, and I think this parade is one of them! As we head into the rest of this year, it is awesome to do it with students, staff, parents, and the community that all work together to make each and every day a great day on the hill! Happy to be on the hill with all of you, Dona Lumsden Hilltop Elementary Principal

Fall | Winter 2021 • Argyle Insights •

ARGYLE CELEBRATES ARTS IN EDUCATION WEEK Argyle High School celebrated National Arts In Education Week Sept. 12-18, 2021. The arts are an essential part of education and during this week Argyle ISD featured some of the impressive work done by students in Mrs. Kosla’s art classes. National Arts in Education Week is a national celebration recognizing

• Argyle Insights • Fall | Winter 2021

the transformative power of the arts in education. Passed by Congress in 2010 through House Resolution 275, the celebration is designated to bring attention to this cause for elected officials and educational decision-makers across the country and to support equitable access to the arts for all students.

The featured artwork was created by: Angela Castor Art 2 Drawing & Painting Calli Patterson Art 3 Drawing & Painting Collin Norvell AP Art & Design Dakota Ray Art 2 Drawing & Painting Sydney Kraus Art 2 Drawing & Painting Ellen Johansson AP Art & Design Sophia Ramirez AP Art & Design

SCHOOL BOARD APPROVES COVID-19 Leave Days For Employees The Argyle ISD Board of Trustees approved a resolution regarding extended COVID-19 leave for all Eagle staff during a Special Board Meeting on Tuesday, Sept. 7, 2021. Trustees approved eight days of COVID-19 leave for Argyle ISD employees who test positive for the virus. These are

added to the current allotment of five local sick days each employee receives at the start of their contract. The Argyle ISD administration made the recommendation to assist employees with additional days if they test positive. If an employee tests positive they are now able to access these additional days.

These additional days are retroactive to the start of the employee’s contract for the 2021-2022 school year. “We are grateful to our Argyle ISD Trustees for supporting our employees by providing these additional sick leave days,” said Dr. Telena Wright, Argyle ISD Superintendent. “These extra leave days will provide relief to our staff.”

Fall | Winter 2021 • Argyle Insights •

New Eagle Academy

SPONSORS

POINT BANK - ARGYLE SYNERGY ONE LENDING - RICH MCDOWELL & FAMILY MATT PORTZ - STATE FARM

• Argyle Insights • Fall | Winter 2021

EAGLE REALTY - MICKENHEIM FAMILY BE THE REASON REALTY - STEPHANIE PHILLIPS & DEBRA SIEBEN MAGNOLIA REALTY - KIM REDING

ARGYLE UNITED METHODIST CHURCH DATCU

A MESSAGE FROM AMS PRINCIPAL

Mr. Gibson

We are all in this together.

This past summer had numerous changes for Argyle Middle School. We moved from Dell computers to Macbooks. Our phone system was updated and new extensions were made for each employee. Our absence reporting system was updated and changed along with our time clock system for hourly employees. However, the change that impacted everyone the most was the move from Canyon Falls to our current campus on Highway 377. This move was a calculated effort from many individuals and groups to make it be a smooth as possible. We began the process of moving in April with boxes, crates, and gondolas being dropped off on campus and teachers and staff beginning to pack items for the move. We asked staff to purge items that might not be used again so that we were not moving unusable items.

By the time school ended in May, we had our campus packed and ready for the move. Box after box and crate after crate were loaded and brought from one campus to another. This move had to be very well coordinated because one campus needed to be moving items while the other received them. The goal was to have many items pass in transit. This goal was not completely accomplished but the overall outcome of moving campuses was done very well.

Our staff did an excellent job of getting the items ready for the move. Most of the items were labeled correctly and ended up in the correct rooms. Once on the new campus, we soon discovered there were many furnishings left that were not usable or not wanted. The maintenance department was fantastic in moving items to storage or throwing large pieces away. At one point, I think the maintenance department moved 10 trailer loads to storage on a Saturday. This particular move allowed us to have the school

looking great for our schedule pickup and cleared up clutter from the building. As we are now several weeks into school, it is nice to look back on the move and see how much we accomplished in a short period of time. We are making great strides adjusting to our new campus. This move continues to remind us that we are all in this together.

Scott Gibson Principal Argyle Middle School

Fall | Winter 2021 • Argyle Insights •

Convocation C

onvocation 2021 was a day to celebrate!

The theme of this year’s Convocation was “Mission Possible”. The event was held at Argyle Middle School in the cafeteria and auditorium. Convocation is the first day back celebration for all teachers and staff in Argyle ISD. It is not only an event that is held to celebrate and show the teachers and staff appreciation, but it is a great way to kick off the school year. Northlake Dentistry was the breakfast sponsor for the event this year. They provided the funds to provide breakfast tacos and coffee to all of the teachers and staff while Point Bank in Argyle sponsored the back to school Argyle themed t-shirts for all of the teachers and staff in the school district. The entrance of the school was lined by the AHS Band playing the fight song as the teachers and staff entered the building. The entrances were decorated with balloon arches and there was a photo booth set up inside for the teachers and staff. Members of the AHS Majestics and the AHS Cheer teams helped serve during the breakfast along with local Eagle Partners who volunteered their time. The entire event was decorated with fun 24

• Argyle Insights • Fall | Winter 2021

themed centerpieces and life size cutouts that went along with the Mission Possible theme. After breakfast, the teachers and staff headed to the AMS Auditorium where they picked up their Argyle Eagle - Point Bank T-shirts and took their seats for a fun celebration. The Convocation celebration was hosted by two AHS students, Mia Navarro and Connor McCue while Mr. and Mrs. Turek along with Mr. Griswold helped run the sound booth and lights for the stage. The AISD School Board and Administration team opened the ceremony followed by the annual Convocation welcome back video and Dr. Telena Wright’s welcome back message. The AHS Cheerleaders, Majestics and Choir all took the stage to perform during the event. The AISD School Board President Mr. Sam Slaton spoke along with Kristen Bell from the Argyle Education Foundation. The keynote speaker for the event was State Representative Dr. Lyn Stucky. It was a huge honor to have Dr. Stucky in attendance. Dr. Stucky spoke to all of the teachers and staff and encouraged them as they were getting ready to begin the school year. The Argyle Eagle Partners were also recognized along with the Golden Eagle Teachers of the Year. A special thank you to those who made this event a huge success through

their volunteer efforts and donations - Mr. Bobby Hawk, Mrs. Cecilia Coker, Northlake Dentistry, Point Bank in Argyle, Dr. Lyn Stucky, AISD School Board, Argyle Education Foundation, BPS Technology, Argyle United Methodist Church, Homework in a Cafe´, The Real Estate Station, Sante´ Center for Healing, Rich McDowell with Synergy One Lending, DATCU, Mrs. Truebenbach and Mrs. Lemish - AHS Cheerleaders, Mrs. Halk - AMS Cheerleaders, Mrs. Martinez - AHS Majestics, Mr. and Mrs. Turek, Mr. Griswold - AHS Choir, Mr. Bird - AHS Band, Mia Navarro, Connor McCue.

Fall | Winter 2021 • Argyle Insights •

Money Matters S

tudents in Mrs. Arrington's Money Matters business classes at Argyle High School enjoyed hearing from Point Bank of Argyle's Branch Manager Mrs. Denise Gray. The students in the class had just completed lessons covering banking, financial planning and budgeting. Mrs. Gray spoke to two classes and was able to bring real world application to the classroom. The students learned about banking, saving for college, debit and credit cards along with much more information applicable to finance and budgeting. The students enjoyed asking questions and following along with her visual presentation. Argyle ISD would like to thank Point Bank for being a Platinum District Level Eagle Partner.

• Argyle Insights • Fall | Winter 2021

Brewed Awakenings Serving

& smiles

he new Argyle High School has an exciting new feature for Eagle students and staff. Introducing Brewed Awakening! It's a new coffee bar, opened again after closing last year, that had a soft opening early in the school year and has now become a popular hot spot on the AHS campus. The coffee bar is managed and staffed by the Argyle ISD Student Nutrition Department and is open every morning serving up hot and cold specialty drinks, pastries, and more! Students and staff can use their SchoolCafe accounts to make purchases. Some of the student and staff favorites include caramel macchiato and specialty frappuccinos. These specialty drinks are regularly crafted by the baristas. The coffee bar also features pastries and breakfast items including lemon blueberry scones, fresh-baked muffins, and brownies. The sales generated from the coffee bar help support the Argyle ISD Student Nutrition Department. The Brewed Awakening menu will keep expanding, and new creations are being added to the menu. The coffee bar includes three baristas and serves during mornings and lunch on school days and sometimes during special events. "We're thrilled about the reopening of Brewed Awakening at the new AHS campus," Student Nutrition Director Amy Bresnahan said. "We have some very talented Baristas and a wonderful Pastry Chef all working to create a true coffee bar experience for our students. We will be open each morning before school and throughout the school day as staffing allows." Fall | Winter 2021 • Argyle Insights •

Eagle Basketball

What a season to remember! The Argyle Eagles boys’ basketball team went 31-1 during the 2020-2021 season and won the Class 4A state championship. This marked the team’s second title in school history. The team held its final celebration before the graduating players headed off to college this summer. The celebration included the unveiling and distribution of the new championship rings. Players, coaches

• Argyle Insights • Fall | Winter 2021

and family members all gathered at the high school gym for this special event that included a highlight video recapping the memorable season.

Argyle West ELEMENTARY PRINCIPAL

n behalf of the faculty and staff at Argyle West Elementary School, it is my pleasure to welcome you and your children to a new school year. We welcomed many new students this year along with several returning families. We have about 900 students enrolled so far this year. We are working hard on ensuring that all students feel welcomed, comfortable and safe. We have been busy learning names and getting acquainted with each other during the first weeks. It takes a team to help all students reach their maximum potential. At AWE we work collaboratively with staff and parents to provide an academic program where all students can be successful. We will make every effort so that all students will become successful, contributing members of our community and able to compete in an increasingly complex world in which they will work and live. The caring and dedicated staff at AWE will continue to encourage all students to set high goals for themselves and to reach for their dreams. Our motto this year is “Third Year is the Charm.” Our first year we were open we were still under construction. Year 2 brought the pandemic and we are hoping that Year 3 is a little less chaotic. We are focusing this year on being coffee beans. We have a choice when faced with adverse things that happen around us, we can choose to be a carrot, egg or coffee bean. If you haven’t read the book The Coffee Bean by

Jon Gordon, I highly recommend it. It will change the way you think, work and live. As I begin my third year as principal of AWE, I am energized and deeply committed to making a positive difference in the lives of our children. We will accomplish this by setting high expectations for all children and providing supportive systems to assure they are met. By addressing school culture, appreciating cultural diversity, setting high standards for teacher performance, increasing academic expectations for all students and engaging the community, it is our goal at AWE that all students become lifelong learners and develop the skills necessary to become productive 21st-century citizens.

"We will

accomplish this by setting high

expectations for all children

and providing

supportive systems to assure they are met."

I sincerely hope that you will visit our website and look through our FAQs and other resources to learn about our policies and procedures we have in place to help students learn in a safe, yet productive environment. I am confident that this year will be the charm and will be outstanding. I look forward to working with the parents, staff and community to continue the Argyle tradition of excellence. In Eagle Pride, Renee Funderburg Principal Argyle West Elementary

Fall | Winter 2021 • Argyle Insights •

• Argyle Insights • Fall | Winter 2021

Germaine Vlok Photography

Dr. Matt Artho is a Resident in Argyle and His Kids Attend AISD Schools

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