Argyle Insights Spring 2021

SPRING 2021

Partners For STUDENT SUCCESS BPS TECHNOLOGY

Published by

See What is Blooming in Argyle ISD

The Official Magazine of the Argyle Independent School District

www.Murray-Media.com

Winter 2020 • Argyle Insights •

3

ARGYLE

BOARD OF

TRUSTEES

GET TO

KNOW ARGYLE ISD

T

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.

Craig Hawkesworth Secretary

Jeff Williams Trustee

Dr. Deana Steeber Assistant Superintendent

Renee Funderburg Argyle West Elementary Principal

Dr. Dawn Jordan Argyle Intermediate School Principal

Scott Gibson Argyle Middle School Principal

John King Argyle High School Principal

Todd Rodgers Athletic Director & Head Football Coach

Chance Westmoreland Girls Athletic Coordinator

Jason Bird AISD Band Director

Rick Herrin Communications Director

Pamela Arrington Marketing Director

Greg Royar Technology Director

Dr. John Bitter Vice President

Brad Lowry Trustee

Dr. Leona McDade Trustee

Ritchie Deffenbaugh Trustee

4

Chris Daniel Deputy Superintendent

Dona Lumsden Hilltop Elementary Principal

Elizabeth Stewart Chief Financial Officer

Sam Slaton Board President

Dr. Telena Wright Superintendent

• Argyle Insights • Spring 2021

Albert Rutledge Transportation Director

Tommy Ledford Maintenance Director

Amy Bresnahan Student Nutrition Director

Chief Cairney AISD Police Chief

TABLE OF PUBLISHERS Scott & Kelly Murray EDITORS Jana Melton Bobbi Byrne Rick Herrin CONTRIBUTORS Argyle ISD Steve Gamel Brooke Ezzo ADVERTISING Kelly Murray kelly@murray-media.com PRODUCTION Graphic Designers Alyson Modene Caroline Brock Cayla Thompson Fernando Gomez Letters

Student Spotlight: Gunner St. Romain

AISD Insights welcomes reader feedback, story suggestions and general comments. Email artwork@argyleinsights.com.

All submissions become the sole property of Murray Media Group.

Read More on Page 34

Contact Us Argyle ISD News

28

District Earns Superior Financial Rating

06

A Message from Dr. Wright

29

Argyle West Elementary Principal

07

AHS Choir

08

Greenhouse Education Center

11

AMS Hires New Assistant Principal

30

32

Argyle High School Cheer State Runner-Up AHS Football & Band Honored

13

AHS Principal Update

34

Gunner St. Romain Student Spotlight

14

AHS Soccer Schedules

36

High School Band Updates

15

Argyle High School Tree Artwork

38

Been Exposed to COVID-19 Know Your Next Steps

16

AHS Spotlight S.T.E.P. Program

AHS Baseball Schedules

18

Argyle Intermediate School Principal

19

Eagle Partners

40

Get to Know the Argyle School Board Members

20

Football State Championship

43

January School Board Appreciation

22

Eagle Alumni Q&A

44

Hilltop Elementary Principal

23

Trustees Approve One-Time Payment

47

AMS Stem Students

25 Remedy A Cappella

Photo Pages

26

33 Argyle Education Foundation

27 AHS Softball Schedules

46

Argyle Middle School Principal

39

Argyle High School Signing Day

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

by April 12, 2021.

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

Spring 2021 • Argyle Insights •

5

A ME SSAGE FROM

Dr. Wright D

eputy University Interscholastic League Director Dr. Jamey Harrison and his staff have done a tremendous job of helping with the continuation of the UIL programs for fine arts, academics, and athletics this year.

In the summer of 2020, UIL personnel began working with the coaches and band directors to find a way to have a UIL season for the students. The 2020 school year ended with a canceled state boys’ basketball tournament and canceled seasons for softball, baseball, track and field, one-act play, academic meet, tennis, and golf.

Early in the summer, the UIL provided protocols that would allow the teams to have a season and compete. Protocols included COVID-19 screenings, hand sanitizer, masks when not actively moving, and wiping of equipment frequently.

Class 4A football was allowed to begin at the scheduled time, but 5A and 6A were delayed four weeks. Argyle ISD Athletic Director Todd Rodgers and the other coaches embraced the UIL protocols and worked diligently to follow all rules in order to have a season.

Football, volleyball, team tennis, and cross country were all competing in the fall of 2020.

Football forged ahead and through 16 games came to a 16-0 record. At AT&T Stadium in Arlington on December 18, the Argyle Eagles won a state championship

6

• Argyle Insights • Spring 2021

in 4A Division I. This would have been a very exciting accomplishment for the Eagles under any circumstances, but with the continuing struggle with minimizing positive cases and quarantines, it was particularly monumental. This was the Eagles’ second state championship and sixth trip to state. The games were played with 50% capacity during the season and playoffs; at AT&T the capacity was limited to 17,000 fans.

Band faced the same challenges in the summer that athletics did, maintaining a safe and healthy practice environment.

Band members had to cover their instruments, wear masks when not playing their instrument, and socially distance for practice. Many practices were held outside.

Band competes at region, area, and then state. This year, the preliminaries and drum major retreats were eliminated from the competitions for safety.

The Eagle band worked hard to protect the group by performing on Thursday nights and not traveling to out of town games.

After winning first at area, the band competed at state and won the coveted first place and a gold medal. This was the band’s 10th trip to state and seventh first place honor.

Cheer was able to perform at the UIL State Spirit competition and won second place and a medal. This was an outstanding performance.

This year, UIL personnel are committed to seeing that there will be a spring season of UIL activities. One-act play competition will occur, and currently, the plan is to require masks on stage.

Basketball state tournament and soccer will be a finals-only format. Region 1 and 2 will play each other. Regions 3 and 4 will play each other, too.

Track and field, baseball, softball, wrestling, golf, and tennis will all have seasons.

Academic UIL will compete with some local District Executive Committee discretion. There are choices for virtual, face-to-face, and in person with smaller groups or pairings as local options.

Against the odds through challenging times, the Eagles are thriving!

These UIL activities are so very important to our students and families.

Dr. Telena Wright Argyle ISD Superintendent

CHOIR AHS

T

he Argyle High School Choir program is off to an amazing start in the 2021 calendar year.

COVID-19 continues to make learning challenging, but our students have stepped up and embraced the changes we have made so that AHS Choir can continue to happen in the safest way possible. By wearing masks, social distancing in class, and singing with hospital-grade air filters, we are able to sing inside of our classroom. We are truly thankful to the Argyle ISD administration for helping us with these changes to our classroom routines.

Argyle High School Choir is in the middle of our UIL Concert & SightReading season! That means we are learning our most difficult music of the year as we prepare for a performance evaluation in the month of March. This year’s evaluation will take place virtually, but we are still striving for the highest rating on our UIL performance – despite all of the challenges that are before us.

We are also very excited to announce that during January, five students from our program were selected for the TMEA Small School All-State Choir! These students have prepared

audition music since July, and for the second year in a row, our program has had the most students selected for the All-State Choir of any school in our area. This is truly an amazing accomplishment for our Choir program, and these students deserve all of the credit. Less than 5% of students who audition for this ensemble are selected each year, and even though we are working through the pandemic, our students have continued to persevere! We are so incredibly proud of their accomplishments and cannot wait to see our students begin this process again next year.

ALL-STATE CHOIR:

PAYTON CONNATSER 12th Grade 5th Chair

AUSTIN RUSK

ALEX GOVEA

LEVI PABST

12th Grade 2nd Chair 2nd Year All-State

12th Grade 1st Chair 2nd Year All-State

10th Grade 1st Chair 2nd Year All-State

MIA NAVARRO 9th Grade 3rd Chair

Thank you to all of the Argyle Choir parents and the Argyle Choir Booster Club for selflessly devoting so much time to helping our program be successful. We also want to thank our 2020-2021 corporate sponsors, 407 BBQ, Giovanni’s Pizza, and Northlake Dental.

We hope to be performing for live audiences again soon. Until then, stay safe, stay healthy, and love your neighbor!

Spring 2021 • Argyle Insights •

7

GREENHOUSE Education Center BPS Technology Supports STEM Resources

8

• Argyle Insights • Spring 2021

IN THE

SPOTLIGHT

W

alking in from the rainy, overcast day into the greenhouse education center, the warmth hits immediately. It’s not just the heating system, it’s the earnest greetings and energy from the scientists working inside.

The team from BPS Technology can be seen a few days a week inside the structure that sits on the Argyle High School campus. On the day we visit, David Coorts, technical director for BPS Agriculture, is harvesting lettuce from a hydroponic system, carefully bagging the tender leaves for measurement back at their Argyle lab. “Eventually, we would love to be working with students on trials like this one,” Coorts said. “The work we’re doing here involves plant science, agriculture concepts, data gathering, statistics, and represents the scientific method end-to-end. Bringing students alongside this work will be a great way to help bring STEM education to life.”

THE TEAM FROM BPS TECHNOLOGY CAN BE SEEN A FEW DAYS A WEEK INSIDE THE STRUCTURE In addition to Coorts, a team of BPS Technology research scientists are onsite during our field trip. They’re monitoring rows and rows of corn plants inside the greenhouse, which was donated by the company and one of their operating entities, Verano365. With ongoing restrictions in place to safeguard students and educators during the COVID-19 era, the BPS team has been focused on setting up systems within the greenhouse and conducting internal trials so that they’re ready to engage with Eagles when the time is right.

Spring 2021 • Argyle Insights •

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JUST A SNAPSHOT OF THE WORK THAT COORTS AND HIS TEAM ARE DOING

“Right now, we’ve been getting to 2020. Brown leads a crew of just over 40 know the STEM teachers across all employees, and his team has been able grade levels to learn more about their to add a few local residents as new hires curriculum via virtual meetings,” Coorts since joining the Argyle community. said. “We hope we’ll be able to at least The rows of tomatoes, peppers, do some distance learning activities corn, flowers, and lettuce in the with the students this spring, especially greenhouse are just a snapshot of during prime growing season.” the work that Coorts and his team In the meantime, the company has are doing in the agriculture sector to been a monetary supporter of the Argyle make agrichemicals more efficient. BPS Education Foundation and made a Technology also works to enhance $40,000 investment in the greenhouse. chemical efficiency in the oil-and-gas The efforts were driven not only by a sector. All of their projects are anchored desire to further STEM education in their by their proprietary technology, new hometown but also as a way to put SymMAX. The aqueous-based host the company’s values into action. chemistry, SymMAX, is a first-of-its-kind “Staying true to being strategic, servant- breakthrough that will enhance almost minded in our community, shepherds of any chemical or biological solution it’s our people and our technology, stewards mixed with by forming supramolecular of the earth’s resources, steadfast in our structures. There are no harsh chemicals daily operations, and keeping a spiritual used to produce SymMAX, and it faith, keep us grounded and on the same utilizes naturally occurring minerals in a page as a team,” says Bravis Brown, CEO mechanical manufacturing process. of BPS Technology. “The greenhouse facility is a way that we can share those BRINGING STUDENTS values with our Argyle community.”

ALONGSIDE THIS A new Eagle Partner, WORK WILL BE BPS Technology and their family A GREAT WAY TO of companies, HELP BRING STEM moved its corporate EDUCATION TO LIFE headquarters to Argyle at the end of

10

• Argyle Insights • Spring 2021

Brown explains, “When SymMAX is introduced to a chemical solution, that new formula will then either work better or last longer than what’s available today.

From a sustainability perspective, we can reduce the chemical intensity in industries — meaning we can help our partners do more with less.”

While the company does scientific research and discovery work in Argyle, their chemical manufacturing takes place in Midland, Texas.

The discoveries being made led the firm to file 12 patents in 2020, and they were recently short-listed by D CEO and Dallas Innovates as a top-four finalist for the 2020 Innovation Awards in the manufacturing category. The recognition is among several the company has received in the last year, including being a top-five finalist in the international FoodBytes!

Pitch competition in the AgTech category.

They also took home the number two spot on Fort Worth Inc. magazine’s Best Places to Work in Fort Worth list for 2020.

“The grit of this team cannot be understated,” said Brown. “We’re launching products that address critical issues in multiple industries, and our team’s drive for both discovery and continuous improvement impress me every day.

In addition to critical STEM abilities, hopefully, perseverance and curiosity are skills we can nurture with Argyle students in the coming years, too.”

More information about BPS Technology can be found at www.bps.technology.

Hires New ASSISTANT PRINCIPAL AMS

H

eather Van Noy was building toward making a career transition from coach and teacher to school administration.

That exciting new career move has started in Argyle ISD. The former Denton Guyer volleyball coach is now an Assistant Principal at Argyle Middle School and started her new role on Jan. 25.

The Argyle ISD School Board approved the hiring on Jan. 18 after Van Noy served at Guyer since 2017. She was a successful volleyball coach for 16 years at Guyer and Lake Dallas combined and will make the short move across Denton County.

"We are very excited to have Mrs. Van Noy join our team,'' said Scott Gibson, Argyle Middle School Principal. "With her experience in education and excellent leadership skills, she will be an excellent addition to our school."

Van Noy is a graduate of Texas Woman's University. She has a Master of Art in Teaching from TWU and a Masters in Educational Leadership from Lamar University.

She started her career in 2005 at Guyer as a teacher and volleyball assistant coach.

In 2011, Van Noy left for a new role just down the road as she became the head volleyball coach at Lake Dallas. She served in this position until returning to Guyer in 2017 to lead the Lady Wildcats program.

Van Noy, who taught World Geography at Guyer, was part of the 2018-2019 LEAD Denton Aspiring Administrators Academy in Denton ISD. The mission of LEAD is to develop leadership capacity to improve organizational effectiveness and promote a culture of learning and engagement.

Additionally, she was the Geography Professional Learning Community lead at the Guyer Freshman Center.

Van Noy also served on the Lake Dallas High School campus leadership team from 2014-2017 and

was a member of the school’s crisis review committee. She also held the role of social studies department chair and girls’ athletic coordinator. While at Guyer, she was the Geography Professional Learning Community lead at the Freshman Center.

Van Noy now makes the shift to campus administrative role following an accomplished coaching career. She was named the 2019 Denton Record-Chronicle All-Area Coach of the Year after Guyer earned a 35-9 record.

She was also the 2011 Coach of the Year by the DRC while at Lake Dallas.

She is excited about this career change, and AMS is fortunate to have an accomplished leader joining the staff.

"I am extremely excited to work with AMS staff," Van Noy said. "Working at this school and district is a privilege, and I am very grateful to [Argyle Superintendent] Dr. Wright and Mr. Gibson for this opportunity.”

Spring 2021 • Argyle Insights •

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• Argyle Insights • Spring 2021

AHS PRINCIPAL UPDATE

MR. JOHN KING HAPPY NEW YEAR TO EVERYONE! While the fall semester was filled with so many different challenges related to COVID-19, our teachers, students, coaches, and directors have continued so many of the long-standing traditions that make Argyle High School one of the best in Texas.

Over the course of one month’s time, Argyle High School brought home two state championships and one state runner-up trophy. On December 14, our Marching Band competed in the Class 4A UIL State Marching Band Contest at the Alamodome in San Antonio and brought home the gold medal. Congratulations to Mr. Jason Bird, his staff, and his band on this historic win.

Later that same week on December 18, the Argyle football team capped off a

perfect 16-0 season by winning its second state championship.

Our Eagles defeated Lindale 49-21 at AT&T Stadium for the Class 4A Division I title. Congratulations to Coach Rodgers, his staff, and his team on this amazing accomplishment.

Finally, on January 15, the AHS Cheer Squad brought home the silver medal at the Class 4A UIL Spirit Competition in Fort Worth. This was the highest finish for our competition cheer team in school history.

Congratulations to Coach Truebenbach, Coach Lemish, and their cheer team on this history-making day.

The spring semester is always the busiest time of the year at the high school. Winter sports are winding down, and the playoffs are about

to begin. Spring sports are just now getting underway. Our UIL Academic Teams have begun competitions and are looking forward to defending their crowns. STAAR tests and AP tests are just around the corner, as well. It will be a very busy semester, and it always seems to go by so fast.

Mr. John King Principal Argyle High School

Spring 2021 • Argyle Insights •

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soccer 2021 schedules

GIRLS’ SOCCER

BOYS’ SOCCER

Feb 16

Castleberry (District 7-4A)

Home

Feb 16

Castleberry (District 6-4A)

Home

Feb 20

Ranchview (District 7-4A)

Away

Feb 20

Ranchview (District 6-4A)

Away

Feb 26

Springtown (District 7-4A)

Home

Feb 23

BYE (District 6-4A)

BYE

Mar 2

Lake Worth (District 7-4A)

Home

Feb 26

Springtown (District 6-4A)

Home

Mar 2

Lake Worth (District 6-4A)

Home

Mar 5

Castleberry (District 6-4A)

Away

Mar 8

Ranchview (District 6-4A)

Home

Mar 12

BYE (District 6-4A)

BYE

Mar 16

Springtown (District 6-4A)

Away

Mar 25-27

Bi-District (Playoffs)

V TBA

Mar 29-30

Area (Playoffs)

V TBA

V 5:30 / JV 4:00

V 11:00

V5:30 / JV 4:00

V5:30 / JV 4:00

Mar 5

Castleberry (District 7-4A)

Away

V 5:30 / JV 4:00

Mar 8

Ranchview (District 7-4A)

Home

V 5:30

Mar 16

Springtown (District 7-4A)

Away

V 5:30 / JV 4:00

Mar 19 Salado Home V 5:00

7:30

7:30

7:30

7:30

7:30

7:30

7:30

7:30

7:30

Mar 25-27

Bi-District (Playoffs)

V TBA

Mar 29-30

Area (Playoffs)

V TBA

Apr 1-3

Regional Quarterfinal (Playoffs)

V TBA

Apr 1-3

Regional Quarterfinal (Playoffs)

V TBA

Apr 5-6

Regional Semifinals (Playoffs)

V TBA

Apr 5-6

Regional Semifinals (Playoffs)

V TBA

Apr 8-10

Regional Finals (Playoffs)

V TBA

Apr 8-10

Regional Finals (Playoffs)

V TBA

Apr 14-17

State Tournament

V TBA

Apr 14-17

State Tournament

V TBA

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• Argyle Insights • Spring 2021

ARGYLE

HIGH SCHOOL

TREE ARTWORK W

hat do you do with a large dying tree on one of the Argyle ISD campuses?

Well, turn it into a work of art!

Right before the winter break, one of the large trees in front of Argyle High School needed to be removed. It was dead and sat right near Highway 377 and close to the school marquee. Yes, right where many eyes are regularly looking.

As the Argyle ISD maintenance department went to work taking down the tree and chopping it up, the idea came to supervisor Gustavo Perez. Let's put some school spirit into this old tree and turn it into a giant capital "A" for Argyle.

It sounded like a great idea – even better when you happen to be pretty skilled at handling a powerful chainsaw.

You see, Gustavo is basically an artist with a chainsaw. He proceeded to spend the next few minutes sculpting an impressive piece of artwork in the base of the tree.

How about this talent?!

Gustavo says he has done a few tree sculptures before, including one at his previous place of employment at Callisburg ISD. He crafted the high school Wildcat mascot out of dead tree, and he has also done a sculpture in his own yard.

All this work on the "A" only took Gustavo about 20 minutes of whittling magic. So next time you are driving down 377, look toward the Argyle High School campus marquee. Gustavo's artwork sits proudly for everyone to see.

Spring 2021 • Argyle Insights •

15

AHS

spotlight

S.T.E.P. Program

photos courtesy of Michele Heyns

I

f you have ever had a chance to see Coach Blake Dunham working in his element at Argyle High School, you would see someone passionate about making a difference in his students’ lives. Another thing that makes his job so special is that Blake is an Argyle ISD graduate and a former football player for the Argyle Eagles. Dunham has been working in the Special Education Department at Argyle High School since January of 2017. He started his career with the district as an Aide in the STEP class. While working as an Aide, he attended school to earn his teaching certification in Special Education.

After earning his certification in the fall of 2018, he became the STEP class teacher at AHS. Dunham is also the Special Teams Coordinator and Defensive Line Coach for football and the Assistant Boys Soccer coach. Before coming to AHS, he worked as a restaurant manager for Radical Hospitality. Radical Hospitality concepts

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• Argyle Insights • Spring 2021

consist of LSA Burger, Barley & Board, Earl’s 377, Bumbershoot BBQ, Kimzey’s Coffee, and, most recently, St. Argyle’s.

Blake graduated from the University of North Texas in 2014 with a Bachelor’s degree in Arts & Science and was a three-year letterman on the UNT football team. He met his wife, Maddie, at North Texas, and they married in June of 2017.

Blake and Maddie have a son named Beckett, who will be two years old at the end of February. Their daughter, Birdie, is expected to arrive soon.

The STEP program at AHS is a transitional education plan for students, blending academics, social skills, and job training together to set students up for success after graduation. In addition to learning core subjects and electives, students have an opportunity to work on developing different strengths, skills, and building confidence towards furthering their education after high school and earning gainful employment.

“As we have all experienced, 2020 brought many new concerns and challenges. Unfortunately, some of this has limited our ability to do certain activities, trips, and community job instruction that we have done in the past. However, I’m very proud of how well our students have adapted to these changes. They still bring a wonderful attitude to school every day and work very hard. In addition to lessons and preparation for independent living and job training, our students still do a number of different activities and jobs throughout the building,” said Dunham.

The STEP class runs Argyle High School’s recycling program. Twice a week, students work together to manage the collection of recyclables from each teacher’s classroom at AHS. The class also makes weekly Sonic drink deliveries to staff members who like a treat on Friday.

Students are responsible for collecting the teacher’s money, giving change if needed, and personally delivering the

drinks to staff. “This is a great job skill for our students to get experience with handling money and also to practice their customer service skills and social steps of service upon delivery,” Dunham said. The STEP program students most recently researched a college of their choice, created digital presentations about the college, and then presented their project to their classmates.

Every week, the STEP students also help sort and deliver staff mail and are responsible for the raising and lowering of the school flags. “These kids look forward to doing their jobs throughout the building. They always do a great job working together and have smiles on their face,” Dunham said.

Dunham added, “I’m very grateful and appreciative of the time I have had working with these students. It’s my hope and goal that these kids can come to school every day and say that they had fun. They each have their own unique personalities, interests, and goals. I enjoy being a part of that room, embracing each other’s differences, encouraging students to be themselves, and working together to achieve those goals. We have a great department that tirelessly devotes its time to working with our kids. Our administration, principals, teachers, and specialists, including coaches Mandi Barnett and Ricky Griffin and Mrs. Michelle Heyns, Mrs. Theresa Locastro, Mrs. Stephanie Tisdale, and Mrs. Anna Wojciechowski, all play a huge role in the day to day experience and success of our classroom,” Dunham said.

Argyle ISD would like to thank The Design House for being a supporting Eagle Partner in helping to provide funds for the STEP Program and Life Skill Classes at AHS. Spring 2021 • Argyle Insights •

17

ARGYLE INTERMEDIATE

School Principal W

e have a busy spring semester coming up at AIS! Students are working hard to be the very best they can be. We are kicking off our popcorn wall to recognize students of good character who are “popping up” everywhere.

Students and staff can write a shout-out to any AIS family member, describing how that person exhibited one of the 11 good character traits as outlined by the Texas Education Agency Counseling Program.

Shout-outs are read over announcements each day to highlight our amazing and kind-hearted students. They make us proud!

We are kicking off UIL teams this month. Fourth- and fifth-grade students can compete in 11 different categories from Music Memory to Chess Puzzles and Ready Writing. The UIL Meet will take place at Hilltop Elementary on April 16.

We will compete against fourth- and fifthgraders from Argyle West Elementary.

It will be an exciting day of fierce but friendly competition.

Our student leaders will be spreading kindness on National Kindness Day in February. They will paint messages on rocks that will be hidden around the school. Every student will find at least one specially painted rock with an inspirational message.

At AIS, our mission is to make sure all students know they are valued and an important part of our school family.

The Kindness Rock Project will be a fun way to inspire others to continue spreading kindness.

Our AIS PTA has continued to support our students and staff this school year.

They treated all of us on National Cookie Day to delicious chocolate chip cookies.

They also provided lunch for the entire staff several times this year. They have supported us through the purchase

of programs such as Go Guardian and supplies for classrooms. It has taken some creativity, but our AIS PTA always responds to our needs with creativity and encouragement. Students had so much fun earning money for our school at the Jungle Run and decorating their teachers’ doors with turkey feathers. There is more fun to come this spring!

AIS continues to be an amazing place to learn, make friends, and have fun!

Dr. Dawn Jordan Principal Argyle Intermediate School

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• Argyle Insights • Spring 2021

EAGLE

partners

Spring 2021 • Argyle Insights •

19

FOOTBALL STATE CHAMPIONSHIP

by Sam Mykel & Trinity Flaten | photos courtesy of Nicholas West and Katie Ray

Eagles were able to make big plays when it mattered most 20

• Argyle Insights • Spring 2021

“I

knew we had many of the ingredients for a championship team,” Argyle Eagles coach Todd Rodgers said. “It’s no different than making a cake and having the right ingredients, but it has to be cooked right. These kids worked together and stayed together and put themselves in the right spot.”

The Argyle Eagles won their second state championship title on Dec. 18, 2020 after defeating the Lindale Eagles 49-21.

“To come out with our guns-a-blazing offense and our shutdown defense, it has been the perfect combination for our 16-0 season,” Rodgers said.

Led by offensive MVP Tito Byce and defensive MVP Zach Stewart, the Eagles were able to dominate and win the game. This dominant performance was not just a one-time showing from the Eagles. This year, the team not only did not lose a single game but also never trailed an opposing team.

“I think this just shows the type of energy we came out with,” Eagle senior quarterback CJ Rogers said. “It’s all in the practice each week, so we came out and showed that.”

The Argyle seniors made sure to come out in their last game, and it was evident.

Rogers had a great day throwing the ball, connecting with fellow seniors Cash Walker and Cole Kirkpatrick along with his tight end Jasper Lott for two touchdowns. Byce had a field day rushing the ball, stacking up four touchdowns – three in the first quarter.

“At the time, I was just thinking we needed to keep driving,” Byce said. “I wasn’t satisfied yet; we needed to win the game.”

Defensively, the Eagles were able to make big plays when it mattered most, forcing turnovers and ending nearly every drive with a punt.

“I think we played all year with an edge,” Stewart said. “We wanted to prove ourselves, and I think we were able to do that.”

The team was unsure if a state championship would even be possible this season. The COVID-19 pandemic put limitations on training and gathering, causing unexpected issues for the team.

“COVID was such a distraction early on,” Rodgers said. “It created a lot of anxiety on the team along with mitigation, risk, and factors that you don’t normally do.”

Despite the many downsides of the pandemic, the team was able to turn the situation around and worked hard to achieve a great season.

“I think our kids really conformed to it in July,” Rodgers said. “Then for them, it was just worrying about football when football season started.”

Leaders on the team were able to help throughout all of this, gathering up teammates for workouts and posting their tapes online. Training and workouts over quarantine helped unify the team.

“This is where I like to think the pandemic became a blessing,” Rodgers said. “[CJ] really stepped out during the pandemic and was instrumental in getting the receivers together, doing heavy weight workouts, working with his videos, and just really working from the front and setting a pace for our team like most of our seniors were. I’m so proud of them.”

The team became a unified group and put aside differences to help their team win big games this season.

“They do not care who gets the credit,” Rodgers said. “Not anytime. They bounce around and smile for whoever scores or makes the tackle. They’re grinders and good workers. I don’t want to be too cliche or anything, but they’re just unbelievable kids.”

Despite injuries, COVID-19, and many other obstacles being thrown their way, the team has still been able to rally around one common goal: the need for a championship.

“It’s a very joyous event,” Rodgers said.

“I’m very proud of my football team.

I think they played like champions tonight, and they earned this.”

2020 DISTRICT 7-4A FOOTBALL ALL DISTRICT TEAM District MVP: CJ Rogers Offensive Player of The Year: Cole Kirkpatrick Defensive Player of The Year: Davis Elsey Offensive Newcomer of The Year: Hayden Stewart Offensive Lineman of The Year: Sheridan Wilson Coaching Staff of The Year

1ST TEAM Running Back: Tito Byce Receiver: Cash Walker Tight End: Jasper Lott Offensive Lineman: Nick Rubien Defensive Lineman: Darren Chapa, Chase Bunnell, & Ty Johnson Linebacker: Reid Atkins Defensive Backs: Zach Stewart Punter: Caden Dodson

2ND TEAM Running Back: Braden Baker Offensive Lineman: Austin Criswell Defensive Lineman: Jasper Lott Linebacker: Logan May Defensive Backs: Caleb Murdock, Hunter Roberts, & Jacob Robinson Kicker: Caden Dodson

I’m so proud of them Spring 2021 • Argyle Insights •

21

ison Bloss l l A

alumni C LAS S O F

2017 Q What year did you graduate from AHS? 2017.

Q What sports did you play when you were at AHS? Volleyball and basketball.

Q What classes did you love most in high school?

My favorite classes were my math classes with Mrs. Betzhold, Coach Perkins, and Mr. McCurdy, as well as Microeconomics with Coach Beene.

Q What grade were you when you moved to Argyle?

I moved to Argyle before going into the 8th grade.

Q What years did you play club sports and what sports?

I started playing club volleyball my freshman year in high school, which is a late start.

Q Where did you attend college?

Texas Tech University.

Q What sport/sports did you play in college?

Volleyball.

Q What position/positions did you play?

Middle Blocker.

Q What organizations were you involved in at college?

FCA and The Way college ministry.

Q What did you love most about being a part of the team?

Getting to spend time with my teammates was a lot of fun, especially when we traveled and got to go do fun things when we traveled to play, such as going to a San Francisco Giants game.

22

• Argyle Insights • Spring 2021

Q What did you major in?

My undergraduate degree and Master’s are both in Sport Management.

Q When did you graduate?

Undergrad in May of 2020. Master’s in May of 2021 (one more semester!).

Q What are you doing now professionally?

I am working at Lubbock Cooper High School as a geometry teacher.

Q What do you love most about your job?

I love getting to see kids learn and succeed.

The moment that they understand what you are teaching is really cool.

Q Tell us a little about yourself now?

I am now graduated (mostly) and living in Lubbock. I got married in May to my husband, Justin, who plays tennis at Texas Tech. Together, we have 2 dogs, Beau and Scout, that always need their energy run out. I am working at Lubbock Cooper High School as a math teacher, which I plan to continue for many more years to come.

As for Justin, he is going to school for his Master’s in Theology to study to become a preacher one day.

Q How did your time in Argyle ISD help prepare you for college and your professional career?

With all of the dual-credit hours offered at Argyle, I was able to graduate in three years with my undergraduate degree from Texas Tech and will finish with my Master’s degree in four years. One of the greatest qualities of Argyle is the teachers that work there. They really want their students to succeed, and they push them to work really hard. Because of this, I really enjoyed my high school classes. That really inspired me to become a high school teacher myself, since I had such amazing teachers.

Q What drives you and motivates you?

My motivation for everything I do is Jesus Christ. It is because of him that my brain and body work, and he gifted me the ability to play in college while also studying. Because of his great love for us, dying on the cross for our sins though we are flawed and undeserving, I get the great opportunity to try and love my students out of an outpouring of Christ’s love in my own life.

Q What advice would you give a student who is interested in playing a sport at the college level?

Even though it sounds cliche, hard work will get you farther than skill a lot of the time.

Coaches are willing to take kids on their teams who might not be as skilled if they are willing to work hard for them. I know college athletes have a stereotype about not doing well in the classroom, but grades are really important since they contribute to a team’s GPA in college. Therefore, coaches really care about your grades – so study hard!

TRUSTEES APPROVE

one-Time payment

Employees F O R

D

uring a special Argyle ISD School Board meeting on Thursday, Dec. 17, 2020, Trustees approved a one-time payment for Argyle ISD employees.

All exempt employees received a one-time payment of $1,000, and all non-exempt employees received $500.

Employees received the one-time payment on Dec. 21. Eligible employees

EAGLE

NEWS

must have been hired in Argyle ISD by Oct. 1, 2020, and have not tendered intent to resign or retire before Dec. 31, 2020.

The Board of Trustees showed their appreciation to Argyle ISD’s employees by rewarding them for performing so well under additional hardships caused by COVID-19.

School Board President Sam Slaton shared a special message for all Argyle ISD employees.

“This pandemic has forced all of us to make numerous changes to how we live

our daily lives and how we operate as a district, but the ability to provide the highest level of service has not been slowed down. I want to thank you all for continuing to exemplify the principles and values of Argyle ISD. You have risen to the occasion, and we as a district are a model for others to follow. I am honored to be part of this district. Your passion to serve our students and our community is what truly makes us the best. Please accept this token of our appreciation, and I hope your holiday season is restful and full of cheer.”

Spring 2021 • Argyle Insights •

23

24

• Argyle Insights • Spring 2021

Remedy A CAPPELLA

R

emedy and Flight are so excited about our plans for 2021! We have hit the ground running with our plans for studio recording, music videos, competitions, and performances, just to name a few.

Since December, Remedy has released a brand new music video for their song “Hurt Me,” which you can watch on Facebook, Instagram, or YouTube.

Collectively, this video has been watched almost 30,000 times on our social media platforms! Remedy also filmed a music video for their song, “GIRL,” in December.

It will be released in the next couple of months and features junior Kimmy Giese on the solo. It is sure to be an exciting video featuring filming locations from

around the town of Argyle.

Remedy is also in the process of preparing for the 2021 International Championship High School A Cappella competition, which will take place over three rounds beginning in March. Even though it will not take place in person, we are excited for the competition season! Our music video for this competition will debut on March 13.

Check out our social media pages for links to the competition as we get closer! We greatly appreciate your support!

We are thrilled that the Argyle Choir Booster Club continues to support these creative efforts. Remedy’s third studio album and Flight’s debut single will release sometime in the Spring/Summer of 2021! Our groups will also be debuting some of their songs from the album at an upcoming outdoor performance in Rockwall on Saturday, March 20 with the help of our friends from Rockwall High School and Heath High School!

The world of a cappella is exciting. Even in the midst of COVID-19, these students are making the most of it. Thank you for supporting Music Education and the creative aspirations of our students!

THE WORLD OF A CAPPELLA IS EXCITING. EVEN IN THE MIDST OF COVID-19, THESE STUDENTS ARE MAKING THE MOST OF IT.

Spring 2021 • Argyle Insights •

25

A MESSAGE FROM AMS PRINCIPAL

Mr. Gibson

A

rgyle Middle School welcomes a new assistant principal to our campus with the addition of Mrs. Heather Van Noy. Mrs. Van Noy comes to us from Guyer High School in Denton ISD where she taught World Geography and was the Geography Professional Learning Community lead at the Freshman Center.

Mrs. Van Noy was also the head volleyball coach and enjoyed several deep playoff runs. She had been the head coach at Lake Dallas High School before coming back to her roots at Guyer. I say “return” because she was part of the opening of Guyer as an assistant coach and teacher in 2005.

Mrs. Van Noy brings a wealth of knowledge related to professional learning communities and will work to “coach” our teachers in a different capacity. One of our goals as a campus over the course of the semester is

to gain a better understanding of professional learning communities and the positive impact it can have on student achievement.

We will ask her to juggle many different tasks while handling the day-to-day operations – while also finding time to complete “other duties as assigned.” She will be working with students with last names lettered A-K and will be teamed with our counselor Jessica Wade.

We encourage our parents to make her the point of contact on concerns involving students within this part of the alpha.

Mrs. Van Noy’s husband is an educator at Strickland Middle School in Denton.

They have 5th grade twin sons (Cason and Jaxson) and a son in pre-school (Hudson).

Please help give a great Argyle Middle School welcome to Mrs. Van Noy. She is eager to get to know our students and parents (even during

a pandemic). You can reach Mrs. Van Noy at Hvannoy@argyleisd.com.

As we move into the second semester, we will continue to do what we have done all year long – be flexible.

We continue to have a small percentage of virtual learners. However, we continue to watch students move in and out of quarantine. We have learned much through this process and feel that we are all in a better place for virtual learning now than at the beginning of the school year.

I am amazed at what the teachers are able to do during this very challenging year. Let’s continue to learn from this year and take all that we learn to make next year better. Let’s have a great 2021!

Scott Gibson Principal Argyle Middle

CONTINUE TO LEARN 26

• Argyle Insights • Spring 2021

School

softball 2021 SCHEDULE Feb 19

Frisco Liberty

Home

V 7

JV 5

Feb 22 Midlothian Home JV 6 Feb 23

Lake Dallas

Away

V5

Feb25-27

Brewer Tournament

Away

TBA

Mar 1 Denton Ryan Home JV 6 Mar 4-6

Coppell/Flower Mound Tournament TBA

TBA

Mar 9 Castleberry Away V6:45 JV 5 Mar 12 Castleberry Home V6:45 JV 5 Mar 13

Bonham V / Midlothian JV

Home

V 12

JV 10

Mar 16 Bridgeport Home V6:45 JV 5 Mar 19

Bridgeport

Away

V 6:45 JV 5

Mar 23

South Grand Prairie

Away

V 7

JV 5

Mar 26

Denton Braswell

Away

V7

JV 5

Mar 30

Decatur (AYSA Night)

Home

V 6:45 JV 5

Apr 1 Decatur Away V 6:45 JV 5 Apr 6

Lake Worth

Away

V 6:45 JV 5

Apr 9

Lake Worth

Home

V 6:45 JV 5

Apr 13 Krum Home V 6:45 JV 5 Apr 16 Krum Away V 6:45 JV 5 Apr 17

Midlothian Heritage

Away

V 11

JV 1

Apr 21

Springtown

Away

V 6:45 JV 5

Apr 24

Springtown (Senior Night)

Home

V 1

JV 11

Head Coach: Kevin Cook Assistant Coach: Mandi Barnett & Lance Sutton

2021 PLAYOFF SCHEDULE Bi-District: Week of May 1st Area: Week of May 8th Regional Quarters: Week of May 15th Regional Semifinals: Week of May 22nd

Regional Playoffs: Week of May 29th State Semifinals: June 3rd State Finals: June 5th

Spring 2021 • Argyle Insights •

27

DISTRICT EARNS

Superior Financial Rating

18 for

CO

NSE

A

rgyle ISD has received state recognition for its financial responsibility and management of taxpayer dollars.

Argyle ISD earned an “A” rating for “Superior Achievement” under Texas’ School FIRST - Financial Integrity Rating System of Texas. This rating is the state’s highest, demonstrating the quality of Argyle ISD’s financial management and reporting systems.

The district has achieved this highest honor for 18 consecutive years and received a perfect score of 100. A score of 60 must be received to pass and 100 is the maximum score that can be earned. The 2019-2020 School FIRST

th

E Y CUTIVE rating is based upon an analysis of staff and student data reported for the 2018-2019 school year and audited budgetary and actual financial data for the 2019 fiscal year ending Aug. 31. 2019.

Argyle ISD Chief Financial Officer Liz Stewart presented the School FIRST Report to the AISD Board of Trustees during the Dec. 14, 2020 regular meeting.

School FIRST accountability rating system assigns one of four financial accountability ratings to Texas school districts, with the highest being A - Superior, followed by B - Above

R A

Standard, C - Meets Standard, and F Substandard Achievement.

The primary goal of School FIRST is to achieve quality performance in the management of school districts’ financial resources, a goal made more significant due to the complexity of accounting associated with Texas’ school finance system. School FIRST holds school districts accountable for the quality of their financial management practices.

The rating system also discloses the quality of local management and decision-making processes that impact the allocation of financial resources in Texas public schools.

THE PRIMARY GOAL OF SCHOOL FIRST IS TO ACHIEVE QUALITY PERFORMANCE IN THE MANAGEMENT OF SCHOOL DISTRICTS’ FINANCIAL RESOURCES

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• Argyle Insights • Spring 2021

The Argyle West ELEMENTARY PRINCIPAL

MISSION STATEMENT: Argyle West Elementary will provide an educational foundation that empowers ALL students to fulfill their unique potential by instilling a love of learning, fostering positive relationships, and developing well-rounded citizens.

W

elcome Back! I would like to take this opportunity to welcome new families to Argyle and to wish everyone a very Happy New Year! May this year bring you and your family great happiness, peace, prosperity, and good health. I thank you for your support and partnership in working together for your children.

The New Year is a wonderful time for families to discuss their own family values and ways of making a positive difference in the lives of others. Families are encouraged to seize the opportunity to discuss with their child about personal achievements and to set goals.

With the craziness of this year, we have come to appreciate the things we once took for granted like hugs, handshakes, movies, concerts, and other social gatherings. There are some places in the country where students are not able to come to school in person, so we are also encouraging students to be grateful for the education they are receiving and how hard our teachers and staff have been working to make things as “normal” as possible.

While I am talking about teachers, I need to brag for a moment. I’ve been in education for 28 years. First as a teacher, then an assistant principal, and now

seven years as a principal. I have never seen so much dedication, commitment, determination, and resilience in my many years as I have over the past six months.

I am in awe every day at all of the many things teachers are doing to make sure the students are receiving the best instruction possible. Some teachers are teaching in-person, some are teaching virtual, and some are doing both! The amount of time these heroes have put into their planning to ensure engaging, relevant, and meaningful learning is inspiring. Not only that, many of them are having to complete a 60-hour course through the Texas Education Agency that is mandatory while also grading, returning emails, and trying to have a family life. Most of that is done on their own time.

To say this year is daunting is an understatement, but they all do it with a positive attitude, joy in their heart,

and a smile on their face. I know many people have a better appreciation for teachers after being virtual all last spring and trying to teach their own children.

However, I have a better appreciation for teachers, and I’m with them every day.

Please make sure your child’s teachers know how much you appreciate their efforts. I know a few kind words go a long way in providing that energy a teacher needs to get through one more set of papers to grade!

We are blessed to work in this great school district with our wonderful students and supportive parents. We will continue to work diligently with you, and your children, and invite you to call or email to talk with the teachers or me about your child’s individual needs. Have a blessed New Year!

Warm Regards, Mrs. Funderburg Argyle West Principal

Spring 2021 • Argyle Insights •

29

Argyle High School

CHEER STATE

RUNNER-UP 2020-2021 AHS UIL SPIRIT COMPETITION SQUAD

W

hat a special year for Argyle High School Cheer!

The school’s UIL Spirit Competition Squad delivered a historic performance at the UIL State Spirit Championship at the Fort Worth Convention Center in January.

The team competed along with 58 schools in the Class 4A Division on the final day of the championships. Teams were vying to be included in the Top 20, which advanced them to the finals. Following an outstanding morning performance, Argyle High School qualified for the finals.

Later in the day, Argyle shined again in its next performance and finished the competition with a 4A state runner-up ending to the season. It marked the best finish at the state championships in the school’s history. The team is led by coaches Laura Truebenbach and Erin Lemish. Both saw the hard work of the girls’ pay off at state.

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• Argyle Insights • Spring 2021

PA I G E A RT H U R S Y D N E Y AV E RY PA I G E B A X T E R K AT E B E L L H A I L E Y C L A R K A M A N D A C OX SOFIA BLACHOWICZ, KYLEE C O LÓ N O L I V I A D E M B O W S K I S A M A N T H A G L A DYS S L E E L E E HARPER KYNDALL HENNIGAN A M E L I A I R W I N K A DY N KO Z M I N S K I M A K I N L E Y M I L L E R BAILEE MULLENIX RHYLEE M U L L E N I X L I L A R I G S BY C AY D E N S I Z E LOV E M A G G I E S TA N D R I D G E “We are so excited that all of our hard work and dedication paid off at the UIL State Spirit competition,” Truebenbach said. “These girls have such a passion for Argyle and for cheerleading, so to place second out of 58 at this competition is such a great sense of pride and accomplishment for them. They put so much time and energy into supporting all of the programs in our community, so for them to earn their silver medal is very special.”

Argyle finished with a score of 88.20, not far behind state champion Lumberton, which scored 89.65.

Prior to the state competition, Argyle High School competed in the Grapevine High School Cheer 2021 Mustang Invitational. AHS was crowned the Class 4A champion and carried this successful momentum into the state championships.

Spring 2021 • Argyle Insights •

31

AHS FOOTBALL

&BAND

Honored I

t truly is a special time for celebrating success in Argyle! Following Argyle High School’s state championship double of winning in football and band in Class 4A, the Town of Argyle took time to recognize these outstanding Eagles.

The Town of Argyle honored the state champion programs during a January Town Council meeting. This included proclamations in their honor.

Eagle football coach Todd Rodgers attended the meeting along with captains Jack Tucker, Tito Byce, Zach Stewart, CJ Rogers, and Cole Kirkpatrick. Band director Jason Bird was also honored along with band members Katy Atkins, Trinity Flaten, and Sarah Crowder.

What another great community honor for the Eagle football team and band!

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• Argyle Insights • Spring 2021

Argyle

EDUCATION FOUNDATION

T

he Argyle Education Foundation donated $80,000 in August 2020 to support the salaries of the STEM teachers in AISD. And thanks to a partnership with the CoServ Foundation, they donated an additional $18,000 this fall for funding of STEM class supplies. The Argyle Education Foundation Board President, Dr. Chet Schrader said, “No investment in STEM education is too big or small. We should always invest in it. Our investment in STEM will pave the way for each student’s future and growth in science, technology, engineering, and mathematics.”

Since its inception in 2003, AEF has donated over $1.6 million in funding to Argyle ISD for STEM programs, scholarships for graduating seniors, the AISD Golden Eagle teacher of the year program, teacher appreciation, teacher and campus grants, and more! To learn more about the Argyle Education Foundation, or to make a donation, please visit our website: www.SupportArgyleISD.org.

“NO INVESTMENT IN S T E M E D U C AT I O N I S TOO BIG OR SMALL. W E S H O U L D A LWAY S I N V E S T I N I T.” Spring 2021 • Argyle Insights •

33

Gunner

S T. R O M A I N

S T U D E N T

S P O T L I G H T

I

f you have had the pleasure of spending any amount of time with Gunner St. Romain, then you are well aware that he has always been a happy boy who is full of life! Just being around him for five minutes will instantly lift anyone’s spirits, and his story is one of perseverance and pure joy for the life he has been given.

When he was born, his parents, T.J. and Tennille, were surprised to learn that he had Down Syndrome. He was born seven weeks early and only weighed 4.8 pounds. As a result, he spent the first four weeks of his life in the NICU. Although it was a shock to see their son go through so much at a young age, T.J. and Tennille wanted nothing but the best for him.

“When someone has a baby that is born ‘imperfect,’ many people don’t know what to say. It’s a hard situation to navigate,” Tennille said. “I shed some tears, but not because Gunner had a diagnosis. The tears

34

• Argyle Insights • Spring 2021

were shed because people felt sorry for us. I have never judged people for things they said to me because I knew they were in uncharted waters.”

Tennille added, “After discussing this with my mother, she told me that when people tell her that they are sorry, she would just reply, ‘Why? We’re not.’ From that moment on, that was my response also. When your child is born with a diagnosis, most people look at them and see the diagnosis, and then the baby. Eventually, that changes, and the child is seen first.”

And everyone has SEEN and is inspired by Gunner – from his friends and people in the community to his very own family who love him dearly. He has two younger brothers, Grayson (a sophomore at Argyle High School),

Olympics for bowling, basketball, and track. He’s earned several medals and awards in Special Olympics, and the highlight of his high school career was when he was crowned homecoming king!

“He loved all of the love and attention he received,” Tennille said.

When asked what his favorite part of the day is, Gunner always says the chance to be around people. He likes learning all of the academic lessons, but his favorite lessons are more hands-on. He loves the integration of the yoga lessons, cooking on Fridays, taking and delivering Sonic drink orders for the staff, and working in the garden area at the high school. He will continue learning job training skills after he graduates this year, but he will be able to stay at the high school until he is 21.

Gunner is planning to work at Chick-fil-A at Southlake and Chick-fil-A at N. Tarrant Pkwy. & Davis Blvd. where his dad is the owner and operator. He also enjoys working at the family ranch and will continue to learn new skills there.

The bottom line is that Gunner is an absolute joy, and we are all very lucky to have him in our life. He never misses an opportunity to roll the car window down to tell someone bye again. He never sees someone without waving, smiling, and most likely hugging them. And for all of those reasons, it is no surprise that Gunner St. Romain was chosen to be featured on the cover of the Argyle ISD Insights Magazine for the Fall/Spring issue.

He is a true reflection of Argyle ISD and what it means to be an Argyle Eagle. and Garrison (an eighth-grader at the middle school). When his brothers were born, Tennille said that he was given the two best

A N D E V E RYO N E H A S S E E N A N D I S I N S P I R E D

BY GUNNER – FROM HIS FRIENDS AND

friends that anyone could ask for.

PEOPLE IN THE COMMUNITY TO HIS VERY

His brothers are kind, loving, and

O W N F A M I LY W H O L O V E H I M D E A R LY

supportive of him.

The St. Romain family moved to Argyle the summer before Gunner’s freshman year. Gunner is now a senior and is regularly involved in anything he can get his hands on while still being a dedicated honor roll student. He’s been a trainer for three years with the football and baseball teams. During that stretch, he’s also been an active member of The Young Men’s Service League as well as competing in Special

G U N N E R L O V E S S C H O O L . W H E N A S K E D W H AT H I S FAV O R I T E PA R T O F T H E D AY I S , H E W O U L D S AY B E I N G A R O U N D P E O P L E .

I T H I N K I T I S FA I R T O S AY T H AT G U N N E R L O V E S E V E R YO N E !

Spring 2021 • Argyle Insights •

35

L

HOO C S HIGH

tes a d p U

T

he Argyle High School band had an unbelievable season. The band was named Grand Champion and swept every caption at all contests entered. This included the Ponder Marching Invitational, Sounds of Springtown Marching Contest, UIL Region 2 Marching Contest, UIL Area B Marching Contest, and the UIL State Marching Contest. This is the seventh state title for the band and ties the all-time gold medal record for State Marching Contest titles among all classifications in Texas.

ATSSB REGION 2 ALL-REGION BAND In November, the Argyle High School Band had 46 students who auditioned, made, and performed in the ATSSB Region 2 Band.

Argyle represented a third of the band. These students are the best high school musicians across the Northern DFW area. As a reward, these students attended a virtual leadership workshop with motivational and leadership speaker Jeremy Spicer.

Of the 46 musicians that made the All-Region Band, 28 of them advanced to the area round.

36

• Argyle Insights • Spring 2021

THE ARGYLE HIGH SCHOOL BAND IS NAMED STATE MARCHING CONTEST CHAMPION! ATSSB ALL-STATE BAND STUDENTS Thousands of students across the state audition for one of these spots, and less than 1% will make the All-State ensemble. The students will represent Argyle ISD and North Texas at the All-State Clinic and Concert in June. Congratulations to Tyler Lansberry and Amanda Mason.

BE A PART OF THE BAND! 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 band! We will begin to test current 5th graders on instruments around spring break, and we want you to be a part of it!

ANY QUESTIONS ABOUT THE ARGYLE ISD BAND PROGRAM CAN BE DIRECTED TO: JASON BIRD DIRECTOR OF BANDS ARGYLE ISD 940-218-3578 JBIRD@ARGYLEISD.COM

Spring 2021 • Argyle Insights •

37

38

• Argyle Insights • Spring 2021

BASEBALL 2021 SCHEDULE

Feb 19

Mineral Wells (Scrimmage)

Home

V 4

JV Black 6:30

Feb 19 TCA (Scrimmage) TCA Addison JV Red 4 Feb 25-27

Celina Varsity Tournament

Away

V TBA

Feb 25-27

Frisco Ind JV Tournament

Away

Feb 25-27

Boyd JV Tournament

Away

JV Black TBA JV Red TBA

Mar 2 Brewer Away JV Red 5 Mar 4-6 Collin County Varsity Tournament TBA V TBA Mar 4-6 TBA TBA JV Black TBA Mar 5

Denton & Boyd

Home

JV Red 4 & 8

Mar 6

Denton & Boyd

Home

JV Red 10 & 2

Mar 11-13

Arlington Lamar Tournament

Away

V TBA

Mar 16

Bridgeport

Home

V 7:30 JV Black 4:30

Mar 16 Southlake Away JV Red 5 Mar 19

Bridgeport

Away

V 7:30 JV Black 4:30

Mar 19 Brewer Home JV Red 5 Mar 20

Valley View & Paradise

Home

Mar 22

Kansas Life Prep Academy

Home

Mar 23

Hillcrest

Home

Mar 27

Guyer

Home

Mar 27

Guyer

Away

JV Red 12 & 2:30

V 7:30 V 12

JV Red 7

JV Black 2:30 JV Red 12

Mar 29 Celina Away JV Red 6 Mar 30

Decatur

Home

V 7:30 JV Black 4:30

Apr 1

Decatur

Away

V 7:30 JV Black 4:30

Apr 1 Jesuit Home JV Red 5:30 Apr 6

Lake Worth

Away

V 7:30 JV Black 4:30

Apr 9

Lake Worth

Home

V 7:30 JV Black 4:30

Apr 10 Guyer Home JV Red 12 Apr 13

Krum

Home

V 7:30 JV Black 4:30

Apr 13 LCA Away JV Red 5:30 Apr 16

Krum

Away

V 7:30 JV Black 4:30

Apr 16 Southlake Carroll Home JV Red 5 Apr 17

Celina

Home

V 2

JV Black 11

Apr 17

Hillcrest

Away

Apr 20

Springtown

Away

JV Red 12

V 7:30 JV Black 4:30

Apr 20 Bryan Adams Home JV Red 5 Apr 23

Springtown

Home

V 7:30 JV Black 4:30

Apr 24 Godley Home V 2 JV Black 11 Apr 24 Valley View Away JV Red 12 Apr 27

Castleberry

Away

V 7:30 JV Black 5

Apr 30

Castleberry

Home

V 7:30 JV Black 5 Spring 2021 • Argyle Insights •

39

Get to Know

THE ARGYLE

SCHOOL BOARD Members

WHAT DO YOU LOVE MOST ABOUT BEING ON THE SCHOOL BOARD? I love the ability to serve our district, our students, and our community. I am honored to be part of a district that consists of so many who selflessly give the best opportunities for success to our children.

WHAT IS YOUR FAVORITE TIME OF YEAR? There are aspects of every season that I always look forward to, but if I had to pick, I would say late spring.

Sam Slaton President

WHAT WAS YOUR FAVORITE SPORT, CLUB OR ACTIVITY WHEN YOU WERE IN HIGH SCHOOL? I was part of a club called the Stand Leaders at Marcus High School. We would attend all of the sporting events to show school spirit, encourage fan participation, and maybe sometimes respectfully question a referee’s decision.

WHAT IS YOUR FAVORITE FOOD OR RESTAURANT? I love all types of food. I love cooking at home and sharing a homemade meal with others. If I had to choose one favorite type of food, I would say that pizza is my spirit animal.

WHAT IS YOUR FAVORITE QUOTE? “Never forget! You can design, create, and build the most wonderful place in the world. But it takes people to make a dream a reality.” Walt Disney

40

• Argyle Insights • Spring 2021

WHAT DO YOU LOVE MOST ABOUT BEING ON THE SCHOOL BOARD? I love the idea that the local community is in charge of leading our schools. I enjoy interacting with the administration, working together from different vantage points to ensure we end up with the best product and best outcome for our children.

WHAT IS YOUR FAVORITE TIME OF YEAR? My favorite season is spring. There are many great activities throughout the school year, but by early to mid spring we get to learn we have won another Lone Star Cup, which means as a district we are hitting on all eight.

WHAT WAS YOUR FAVORITE SPORT, CLUB OR ACTIVITY WHEN YOU WERE IN HIGH SCHOOL? Growing up my favorite sport was rodeo and I was fairly involved in the local FFA chapter.

Dr. John Bitter Vice President

WHAT IS YOUR FAVORITE FOOD OR RESTAURANT? Javier’s WHAT IS YOUR FAVORITE QUOTE? If you want to go fast, go alone...If you want to go far, go together.

WHAT DO YOU LOVE MOST ABOUT BEING ON THE SCHOOL BOARD? There are multiple things I have enjoyed about being a Trustee in Argyle ISD since 2014. However, seeing the trust the community places in us and more importantly the AISD staff and to provide an amazing learning and growing experience for our students from Kindergarten to Senior Year has to be the most rewarding.

WHAT IS YOUR FAVORITE TIME OF YEAR? It is definitely fall and spring when school is in and we can attend as many AISD events and activities as possible. We love watching our students compete.

WHAT WAS YOUR FAVORITE SPORT, CLUB OR ACTIVITY WHEN YOU WERE IN HIGH SCHOOL? I played football, basketball, baseball, and ran track. My favorite sport was by far football.

Craig Hawkesworth Secretary

WHAT IS YOUR FAVORITE FOOD OR RESTAURANT? Brisket Quesadillas at Marty B’s WHAT IS YOUR FAVORITE QUOTE? "Do not go where the path may lead, go instead where there is no path and leave a trail." -Ralph Waldo Emerson

WHAT DO YOU LOVE MOST ABOUT BEING ON THE SCHOOL BOARD? I get to see up close the true professionalism and dedication of the administrators, teachers, coaches, directors, sponsors, and other staff of AISD. And I love having the opportunity to support them as they serve our students and to contribute to the overall betterment of our district and entire community WHAT IS YOUR FAVORITE TIME OF YEAR? Thanksgiving WHAT WAS YOUR FAVORITE SPORT, CLUB OR ACTIVITY WHEN YOU WERE IN HIGH SCHOOL? Football

Brad Lowry Trustee

WHAT IS YOUR FAVORITE FOOD OR RESTAURANT? Just about any Mexican food restaurant.

WHAT IS YOUR FAVORITE QUOTE? “Whether you think you can or think you can’t, you’re right.” — Henry Ford Spring 2021 • Argyle Insights •

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WHAT DO YOU LOVE MOST ABOUT BEING ON THE SCHOOL BOARD? Being a retired educator, I have spent my career serving students and their families, in positions from teacher to principal.

Being a school board trustee is an extension of that and has been another way for me to serve my community in providing oversight and using the knowledge gained throughout my career to help support our wonderful school district to be the best it can be.

Dr. Leona McDade Trustee

WHAT IS YOUR FAVORITE TIME OF YEAR? Fall is my favorite time of year. I love watching the progression of the life cycle of plants and animals, and they prepare to 'sleep' and renew during the winter months. The weather making its transition from hot to cold, the warmth of a cozy home, family gatherings, fireplaces, colorful leaves, and being able to enjoy more outdoor activities in the moderate weather.

WHAT WAS YOUR FAVORITE SPORT, CLUB OR ACTIVITY WHEN YOU WERE IN HIGH SCHOOL? I was an avid volleyball player all throughout middle and high school and participated in school competitions and intramural sports. I was also in the high school drama club, which then was an after school, weekend, and summer activity. We put on school and community performances. I enjoyed both activities immensely and formed some great friendships.

WHAT IS YOUR FAVORITE FOOD OR RESTAURANT? Personally, I love to cook and try new recipes. When I do eat out, I love good Italian, Mexican, and Asian food.

WHAT IS YOUR FAVORITE QUOTE? I actually have two: one from T.S. Eliot, and one from my Dad. T.S. Eliot: "We shall not cease from exploration, and the end of all our exploring will be to arrive where we started, and know the place for the first time." My Dad: "Leave the world in a better place than you found it."

WHAT DO YOU LOVE MOST ABOUT BEING ON THE SCHOOL BOARD? AISD has been an incredible place for my family and me for the last (almost) 20 years. I love that I am trusted to serve and able to give back.

WHAT IS YOUR FAVORITE TIME OF YEAR? Now that we are empty nesters, I would have to say the holidays when the kids are home and the house is busy again!

Jeff Williams Trustee

WHAT WAS YOUR FAVORITE SPORT, CLUB OR ACTIVITY WHEN YOU WERE IN HIGH SCHOOL? Athletics (football, basketball and baseball) kept me involved, motivated, accountable, and provided a pathway to further my education.

WHAT IS YOUR FAVORITE FOOD OR RESTAURANT? Tex-Mex...by far. So many great places, hard to name a favorite.

WHAT IS YOUR FAVORITE QUOTE? "Every battle is won before it is fought" -Sun Tzu

WHAT DO YOU LOVE MOST ABOUT BEING ON THE SCHOOL BOARD? The ability to brainstorm as a group on making decisions on best paths forward.

WHAT IS YOUR FAVORITE TIME OF YEAR? Fall in Texas. Not unbearably hot, less humidity, low winds, and just beautiful crisp days.

WHAT WAS YOUR FAVORITE SPORT, CLUB OR ACTIVITY WHEN YOU WERE IN HIGH SCHOOL? Basketball. We always played in our free time, and I was able to be part of my high school team every year. I loved the game itself but also the bonds I made with my teammates and friends.

Ritchie Deffenbaugh Trustee

WHAT IS YOUR FAVORITE FOOD OR RESTAURANT? I like all foods! My favorite restaurants have become those that offer a variety of different options. Shoal Creek is our favorite place to go for date night.

WHAT IS YOUR FAVORITE QUOTE? “Don’t let perfection get in the way of good”. When I was working for Eli Lilly, a VP said this at a meeting, and I’ve used this thought many times over the years in various meetings. We often try to make everything perfect before making a decision or action. But, generally, that leads to inaction. I try to encourage teams to take an action that is good, and we can always adapt later.

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• Argyle Insights • Spring 2021

JANUARY SCHOOL BOARD

APPRECIATION A

rgyle ISD joined districts across the state during January 2021 to celebrate School Board Appreciation Month.

The district honored its seven Trustees with the statewide theme of "Navigating to Success." Each year, a theme is chosen to recognize Trustees.

During the Regular Board Meeting on January 19, Argyle ISD schools and administration took time to celebrate the Trustees during special recognitions. Each campus designed a poster and provided special gifts for the School Board.

Typically, school groups attend the Board meeting and provide special performances, but this was not possible this year due to COVID-19 precautions. As an alternative, the campuses participated in a “Thank You” video for the School Board that also included Trustee family members providing messages of appreciation.

The district celebrates and shows appreciation for the tireless commitment and dedication of the Trustees in serving the Eagles students, staff, and the community. They are elected officials who volunteer their time, shoulder critical responsibilities, and make important decisions for the district – especially during the current COVID-19 pandemic. They establish the policies that provide the framework for public schools. The Argyle ISD School Board is responsible for approval of the budget, more than 3,800 students, 450 employees, and five campuses.

Trustees recently showed their appreciation for the commitment of the Argyle ISD employees during the pandemic with a one-time payment of $1,000 for exempt employees and $500 for non-exempt employees. During a Special Meeting in August, Trustees unanimously approved keeping the district's plans in place for a safe start to the 2020-2021 school year by adhering to the Texas Education Agency and the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention safety guidelines and procedures for in-person learning.

The School Board includes President Sam Slaton, Vice President Dr. John Bitter, Secretary Craig Hawkesworth, Dr. Leona McDade, Jeff Williams, Brad Lowry, and Ritchie Deffenbaugh. More information regarding the Argyle ISD School Board, meeting videos, meeting schedule, and agendas can be found at argyleisd.com.

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Hello From Hilltop!

E L E M E N TA R Y P R I N C I PA L D O N A L U M S D E N

T

o start with, I’d like to talk about our Instructional Aides. This group of people go above and beyond every single day. They dig in and work with students on instructional needs, being exactly what that student needs at the time. They are a huge help during all lunches and duties, and basically have bent over backward to be incredibly flexible this year.

I just want to take time to appreciate them and highlight their great work. I was going to post a group picture, but this group is so busy that it has proven impossible to get them all together in the same place. They are invaluable to our teachers and really help in making the wheels of the school turn every single day. So thank you to them.

Now I’ll move onto one of my experiences in the last month. I was walking down the hall one day, and a PreK teacher says to me, “I got a PreK bouquet today.” I was intrigued. What was a PreK bouquet? Is this some tradition here at Hilltop where parents send bouquets to the PreK teachers? I asked her what is that? And she said come see.

This photo is the bouquet she showed me. As I think about this year, this picture sums up a lot to me. These sweet kids saw beauty in these weeds and gathered them up to give to their teacher. They used what they had, and they did it with love. The teacher loved it and cared for them by putting them in water. She was proud of them and put them on display. The students were proud because the teacher appreciated their kind gesture. It’s a huge circle.

I’m very proud of the way the teachers, students, staff, and parents come together no matter what hits us.

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• Argyle Insights • Spring 2021

It really speaks to me in terms of it’s not about what you are given, it’s how you frame it (or vase it). Now, I would not in any way compare anything about Hilltop to weeds. But I’m very proud of the way the teachers, students, staff, and parents come together - no matter what hits us.

Heaters, quarantines, and transitions to virtual learning may be unexpected circumstances, but we take care of each other and move on. In all of that, our children find joy. We get to see it on their faces every day, and it’s even more motivating than looking at that sweet bouquet in that water cup.

We are all very committed to giving the students what they need, regardless of what challenges are presented to us.

On top of that, we love doing it. Parents, you have given me so many reasons to appreciate you. Consider this little note to be me giving each of you a PreK bouquet, with a lot of love for all of your patience and understanding during this year.

Dona Lumsden Hilltop Elementary Principal

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ARGYLE HIGH SCHOOL

SIGNING DAY

J

ust days before Argyle High School won the Class 4A Division I football state championship, a celebration was held for four Eagles headed to the next level.

AHS hosted Early National Letter of Intent Signing Day at the Indoor Activity Center, and four members of the state championship team signed scholarships with colleges and universities. It was an exciting celebration of this outstanding accomplishment for these studentathletes who have put in years of hard work, training, and commitment.

Offensive lineman Jack Tucker and Blake Spence signed with Texas Tech. Tight end Jasper Lott signed with TCU, and defensive lineman Darren Chapa signed with Hardin-Simmons University. Days later, the Eagles celebrated again by finishing a 16-0 season with a state championship at AT&T Stadium.

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• Argyle Insights • Spring 2021

Students LEARN ABOUT: AMS STEM

Info and photos provided by Mrs. Brenda Williams and Mrs. Kate Nelson

A

stronaut Anne McClain, a lieutenant colonel in the U.S. Army who serves as both an engineer and NASA astronaut, spoke to a STEM class at AMS. Astronaut McClain flew to the International Space Station (ISS) in December 2018 and returned to Earth in June 2019. On December 9th, 2020, McClain was announced as one of NASA's Artemis astronauts. The goal of the Artemis program is to land "the first woman and the next man" on the moon, specifically at the lunar south pole region, by 2024.

Anne McClain spoke to Mrs. Williams’ first period STEM class, which is made up of 7th- and 8th-grade students.

Mrs. Williams recorded the virtual chat, allowing all of her STEM students to watch the presentation.

So how did an Astronaut for NASA get connected with a STEM class at Argyle Middle School? Kate Nelson, a mom of one of Mrs. Williams’ students, Mary Nelson, informed Mrs. Williams that Anne McClain was a family friend and that she would be interested in doing a virtual chat with the AMS STEM students. The Nelson family has known Anne for quite some time as she and Ryan Nelson, Mary’s dad, both served in the Army together.

They flew the same helicopter and were classmates at the U.S. Naval Test Pilot School, Class 143.

After receiving this information, Mrs. Williams contacted a NASA representative who set up the virtual chat with Astronaut Anne McClain.

The students asked several questions.

Some of the questions were: • Why did you choose to become an astronaut, and how old were you when you decided to become an astronaut?

• What was the toughest part of your astronaut journey, and what made you keep going?

• How much training do you need to become an astronaut and go to the ISS? • Were you nervous about going to space for the first time? How did you feel when you strapped into the rocket the first time?

• What effects did microgravity have on your body while you were in space, and how did it feel to get back to Earth and live with gravity? How long did it take to re-adjust to gravity on Earth?

• What is your favorite thing to eat on the ISS, and do things taste different when you're in space? (Things do taste different in space).

Anne McClain was very thorough when answering the students’ questions.

Anne used analogies to bring her space experiences to life for the students. She also included pictures from her journey to the ISS. When setting up the presentation with the NASA representative, Mrs. Williams provided specific information regarding the Flight and Space curriculum that had been recently taught in STEM class. The students had learned about the Oxygen/Carbon

Dioxide System and the Water Recycling System aboard the ISS. Anne McClain expanded on these topics and provided diagrams to explain the systems.

Mary Nelson’s mom, Kate, said that Mary was super excited to see Anne in her virtual class and listen to her share her experience of being on the International Space Station! “I think all the kids really enjoyed listening to her experience, how things work on the ISS, the experiments she performed, and what it is like being in space,” said Mrs. Kate Nelson.

“We are keeping our fingers crossed that Anne is chosen as the first woman to walk on the Moon,” said Mrs. Williams.