Crandall ISD Summer 2023

CRUSADER

EMPOWERING EVERY STUDENT EMPOWERING EVERY STUDENT

A Message from the Superintendent Dr. Anjanette Murry

Iam thrilled to introduce myself as the new Superintendent of this wonderful district. It is an honor to be given the opportunity to lead such an exceptional community of students, teachers, and staff members.

I have spent the majority of my career in education, working in various roles across multiple school districts, but Crandall ISD is my home, and I am blessed to have been chosen to lead our district. I am passionate about fostering a learning environment that is both challenging and supportive, where all students can thrive. My approach to education is rooted in

the belief that every child deserves an equitable education. I am committed to ensuring that all students in our district receive the resources and support they need to succeed.

As your Superintendent, I am committed to working collaboratively with all stakeholders to ensure our district continues providing high-quality education to all students. I believe in the power of open communication, transparency, and accountability, and I look forward to building strong relationships with students, families, and community members.

I am excited to lead this vibrant community. I am committed to working tirelessly to ensure that our district continues to be a place where all students can thrive academically, socially, and emotionally. I look forward to getting to know each and every one of you and working together to build a better future for our students.

Sincerely,

Dr. Anjanette Murry

CISD

BOARD OF TRUSTEES

School board members, elected from and representing their local communities, are entrusted with the responsibility of policy-making and promoting educational excellence for their local school district. In Texas, school board members receive no compensation except the satisfaction derived from rendering an important public service. School Board meetings are held on the second Monday of the month in the L. R. Raynes Education Center, 400 W. Lewis Street. Postings of all Board meetings agendas are located at the CISD Administration Building.

Justin Strain Place 2 jstrain@crandall-isd.net

District Profile

Enrollment by Ethnicit y

Asian - .61%

Two or More - 3.81%

Pacific Islander - .08%

White - 27.89%

Staff Years Experience 51% 20%

Years 13%

Years

Years

OVERALL B

CAMPUSES

Hispanic or Latino - 41.25% RATING

more than 566K miles traveled each year

5 Elementary Schools 1 Middle School 1 High School 1 Alternative Academy

1 Freshman Center

Rick Harrell President Place 6 rharrell@crandall-isd.net

Dr. Sharon Long Vice President Place 3 slong@crandall-isd.net

Jennifer Hiser Secretary Place 7 jhiser@crandall-isd.net

Stacie Warren Place 1 swarren@crandall-isd.net

Amy Barber Place 5 abarber@crandall-isd.net

Ryan Eskridge Place 4 reskridge@crandall-isd.net

Senior Spotlight

CALLIE TAYLOR

TATUM WEST

Where are you attending college?

University of Northern Colorado

What is your major?

Nursing

SAMMY OMOSIGHO

Where are you attending college?

University of Oklahoma

What is your major?

Business Management

Did you receive an athletic scholarship?

I received a full-ride scholarship.

What sports did you play, and what are some of the accomplishments/recognitions you have received?

I played football, basketball, and ran track. I was the MVP of the football team three years in a row, and I got First-Team All-District in my senior year of basketball. I was the MVP of my junior track year and went to Regionals three years in a row.

What is your favorite memory at Crandall High School?

Winning our playoff game this year was the best memory of my high school career.

What life lesson(s) did you learn while playing?

I learned that how much you put in is how much you get out!

What makes you stand out from other athletes?

I am a person that has a drive not to lose, no matter the situation. I have the mindset of a winner.

What would your dream job be?

I want to be a landlord and own a community.

If you could thank anyone for helping you in your success, who would it be and why?

I would thank my peewee coaches, and I would thank Coach Lewis, Coach Sawyer, and Coach Hardin because they helped me become the man I am today.

What does it mean to be one of ten students selected for the Bachelor of Fine Arts in Theatre Arts program at the University of Texas at Arlington?

It means the absolute world to me! I'm one step closer to getting to achieve my dream of acting professionally and bringing joy from the stage to the audience while also getting to grow even more as a student and actress based on the professors and directors I'll have at UTA.

Describe your senior year in three words. Eventful, Rapid, Memorable

If you could create one mandatory course for future seniors, what would it be?

"What to expect after you graduate."

“I will always remember…”

All the good laughs and memories I made along my high school journey in theatre and with friends.

If you could thank anyone for helping you in your success, who would it be and why?

Mr. Juarez. When I was going into my freshman year, I always heard of people older than me being able to connect and build a really good relationship with a teacher, and I never expected to experience that kind of relationship. Having Mr. Juarez for all 4 years of my high school journey, he really got to know me as an actress and got the chance to know both my strength and weakness, so he would use what he knew to challenge me into the actress and person I am today. I am absolutely honored to have had him as my director for the last 4 years, and I can't put into words just how important he is to me.

Where do you see yourself in 10 years?

I see myself acting professionally, whether it's on Broadway, with a touring cast, or performing locally. I also see myself sharing my own experience in theatre to spread my journey and knowledge to others to show them following your dreams can come true.

Did you receive an athletic scholarship?

Yes, I received an athletic scholarship.

What sports did you play, and what are some of the accomplishments/recognitions you have received?

I play basketball and have achieved many accomplishments over the past few years: MVP for 3 years, Offense MVP for 3 years, District Newcomer of the year, District Defensive MVP, and then Overall District MVP, TABC All-Region Team, McDonald's All-American Nominee (PASS THE BALL) Who’s Next All-Star, and varsity letterman for four years.

What is your favorite memory at Crandall High School?

Definitely Coach D. She taught me how to shoot a layup left-handed, to be a humble player, and to always give respect even if I don't get it in return.

What life lesson(s) did you learn while playing?

There will always be people who want you to fail. The best thing you can do is have confidence in yourself and surround yourself with people that want to help you achieve your dreams.

What makes you stand out from other athletes? Even when I'm not producing in a certain area on the court, I can pull my mind out of the slump.

What would your dream job be?

Trauma ER doctor. I have always wanted to go into the medical route of a degree, and I am super excited to see where this takes me.

If you could thank anyone for helping you in your success, who would it be and why?

I would like to thank my AAU coach, Coach Wayne. He saw something in me that I didn't see in myself. He pushed for me, he never gave up on me. I will forever be grateful for Coach Wayne and the time and work he spent getting me to where I am today.

Graduates top 10

valedictorian

Sophia De La Rosa

Sophia will be attending the University of Texas at Arlington where she will major in Developmental Psychology. During her time at CHS, she has served in band as the Section Leader for Front Ensemble from 10-12th grade and participated in the Area Marching Band in 2021, and the UIL Solo and Ensemble State 2022 & 2023. Sophia was also inducted into the National Honor Society.

To the Class of 2023: “Life’s only just begun, keep striving to be the best version of yourself you can be.”

To future CHS graduates: “Mistakes are what make us interesting. Don’t be afraid of failure and just go for it.”

William Ondrusek

William will be attending Texas A&M University where he will major in General Engineering. During his time at CHS, he participated in Varsity Football (2020-22) and was awarded 1st Team Academic in All State Football 2022. William is also an avid fisherman, and his team qualified in the Texas High School Bass Association Fishing State in 2021 and Regional Qualifier in 2020 and 2022.

To the Class of 2023: “I couldn’t have asked for a better class of people to graduate with. The class of 2023 is truly remarkable and one that CHS will remember for a long time.”

To future CHS graduates: “Make your mark while you can. These 4 years of high school really fly by, so don’t waste any opportunity to do something great.”

Salutatorian # 3

Natalie Hamlin

Natalie will be attending Texas A&M University where she will major in Business Administration. During her time at CHS, she was highly involved in the Student Council where she served her senior year as President. Natalie was named Vice President of Scholarship for the National Honor Society for 2022-23 and was a member of the NHS since her sophomore year. Natalie achieved UIL Academics. She was part of the Varsity Cheer Team during her time at CHS and was named Captain her junior and senior year.

To the Class of 2023: “Everything you lose is a step you take. Do not be afraid of failure because if you never bleed, you're never going to grow.“

To future CHS graduates: “Get involved, go to that game, make the memories, and enjoy all of your 4 years because they will be over sooner than you would think.”

# 4

Stephanie Zagrean

Stephanie will be attending Texas A&M University where she will major in Business Administration. During her time at CHS, she was Treasurer in the Student Council during her senior year.

To the Class of 2023: “It’s finally over.”

To future CHS graduates: “Have fun and do your best.”

#

5

Carolyn Zelkovich

Carolyn will be attending the University of Central Arkansas where she will major in Psychology. During her time at CHS, Carolyn served as President of the National Honor Society, Vice President of the Student Council, and Editor of the yearbook her sophomore through senior year. She is a Presidential Service Award recipient, National Rural and Small Town College Board Scholar, and recognized for UIL Academics her sophomore through senior year. Carolyn also participated in Varsity Track her freshman and sophomore years.

To the Class of 2023: “It’s been a long four years, but hey, we survived The Great War.”

To future CHS graduates: “Do all of the things and make all of the memories; they mean a lot more in the long run than grades.”

# 6

Mirai Stewart

Mirai will be attending Texas A&M University where she will major in Psychology. During her time at CHS, Mirai served as Student Council D.A.S.H. Committee Chair in 2022-23. She is a National Honor Society Officer and participated in Varsity Tennis her junior and senior year.

To the Class of 2023: “Wherever you go, go with all your heart.”

To future CHS graduates: “Academics are important, but don’t forget that there is a life outside of school.”

# 7

Leah Gardner

Leah will be attending Ouachita Baptist University, where she will major in Accounting. During her time at CHS, Leah was an active member in Fine Arts and Athletics. She was the French Horn Section Leader in 2020-22 and Volleyball Team Captain in 2021-22. In 2022 she was recognized as District 13-5A Hitter of the Year. Leah is a National Honor Society 100 Service Hour recipient, Academic All-District in 2019-2022.

To the Class of 2023: “It is absolutely still possible to make a difference.”

- Michelle Obama

To future CHS graduates: “The beautiful thing about learning is that no one can take it away from you.” - B.B King

# 8

Sarah Smith

Sarah will be attending East Texas Baptist University, where she will major in Criminal Justice and Chemistry. During her time at CHS, Sarah participated in Varsity Softball in 2019-2023, and she is an Academic All-District recipient in 2020-23. She's also a National Honor Society Member.

To the Class of 2023: “Thank you all for some of the best years of my life and for always keeping things interesting.”

To future CHS graduates: “Just have fun, and don’t stress too much over school and grades because, in the end, the best memories you have are the ones spent with your friends.”

# 9

Daisy Deleon

Daisy will be attending the University of Texas at Austin, where she will major in Biology. During her time at CHS, Daisy participated in the Student Council as part of the Community Service Committee during her senior year. Daisy was a member of the Tennis Team throughout her time in high school.

To the Class of 2023: “We made it!"

To future CHS graduates: “Don't take everything too seriously and enjoy your life.”

# 10

Landon Phillips

Landon will be attending the University of Dallas, where he will major in Political Science. Landon was inducted into the National Honor Society his senior year and served as an Officer for Student Council. Landon has been a member of Phi Theta Kappa since 2023. He is a three-year Varsity Baseball player who was recognized as All-District Third Baseman in 2021, a Golden Glove award in 2021, and an All-District pitcher in 2022.

To the Class of 2023: ”You and I were created by God to be so much more than normal.… Following the crowd is not a winning approach to life. In the end, it’s a loser’s game because we never become who God created us to be by trying to be like everybody else.”- Tim Tebow

To future CHS graduates: “Outliers are those who have been given opportunities and have had the strength and presence of mind to seize them." -

Malcolm Gladwell

Pirates

OF THE MONTH

NOVEMBER 2022

• Dietz Elementary: Courtney Phelps

• Martin Elementary: Anaiss Cruz

• Noble-Reed Elementary: Mindy Longoria

• Walker Elementary: Shanon Murchison

• Wilson Elementary: JoAnne Walters

• Crandall Middle School: Orlando Logan

• Freshman Center: Samantha Torres

• Crandall High School: Pamela Mcelvogue

• DAEP: Shantrey Glenn

• Central Office: Mallorie Parks

• Maintenance: Lindy Lawley

• Transportation: Carrie Findling

DECEMBER 2022

• Dietz Elementary: Tara Conroy

• Martin Elementary: Meghan Chiasson

• Noble-Reed Elementary: Hilda Palomeres & Dora Ramos

• Walker Elementary: Christie Doster

• Wilson Elementary: Kristi Craft

• Crandall Middle School: Terry Eason

• Freshman Center: David Parks

• Crandall High School: Abby Altman

• DAEP: Veronica Taylor

• Transportation: Lisset Valle

• Maintenance: Billy Carter

JANUARY 2023

• Dietz Elementary: Gloria Pelcher

• Martin Elementary: Linda Prado

• Noble-Reed Elementary: Rachel Garrow

• Walker Elementary: Melissa Gardner

• Wilson Elementary: Denise Olson

• Crandall Middle School: Tanya Reyna

• Freshman Center: Rocio Salazar

• Crandall High School: Keith Regester

• DAEP: Bobby McCowan

• Central Office: Eric Covington

• Transportation: Debra Stewart

FEBRUARY 2023

• Dietz Elementary: Denise King-Daniel

• Martin Elementary: Tony Vaughan

• Noble-Reed Elementary: Roseline Ajiboye

• Wilson Elementary: Wade McElroy

• Freshman Center: Caden Lang

• Crandall High School: Lynette Ghormley

• DAEP: Yanet Galvan

• Central Office: Amy Mitchell

MARCH 2023

• Dietz Elementary: Lisa Mize

• Martin Elementary: Emilee Hardman

• Noble-Reed Elementary: Claudia Munoz

• Walker Elementary: Brenda Ochoa

• Wilson Elementary: Shelli Girdler

• Crandall Middle School: Nikia Timmons

• Freshman Center: Paulette Daniels

• Crandall High School: Amber Ragsdale

• DAEP: Kevin Morris

• Central Office: Kelly Jones

• Transportation: Steve Purk

APRIL 2023

• Dietz Elementary: Jillian Davenport

• Martin Elementary: Courtnie Laflower

• Noble-Reed Elementary: Erika Salcedo

• Walker Elementary: Araceli Ramirez

• Wilson Elementary: Erica Jander

• Crandall Middle School: Debra Tanner

• Freshman Center: Benjamin Blaize

• Crandall High School: Laura Espino

• DAEP: Jamanda Darby

• Central Office: Nicole Tudor

• Maintenance: Michael Bryant

• Transportation: Greg Waller

of the Year! District teachers

CONGRATULATIONS TO OUR 2022–23 DISTRICT AND CAMPUS TEACHERS OF THE YEAR!

Lindsey Moses, our district Secondary Teacher of the Year, goes above and beyond with students throughout Crandall High School. Students and staff love her for her willingness to help students and the community. She continues to come up with new, innovative ways to make learning better.

Julia Tyndall, our district Elementary Teacher of the Year from Martin Elementary, takes dress up days seriously. It is more than just participating, it is all about connecting with the students and showing them how much she enjoys her job. She creates lessons that often allow her students to connect with their home life and provides opportunities for her students to showcase and share their learning in and outside the classroom. Her students know her expectations and take ownership of their learning.

We are thankful to have these amazing educators as a part of Pirate Nation. They are all making a huge impact in the classroom and on their campus.

Campus Teachers of the Year

• Gloria Pelcher, Dietz Elementary

• Marci Johnson, Noble-Reed Elementary

• Melissa Gardner, Walker Elementary

• JoAnne Walters, Wilson Elementary

• Terry Eason, Crandall Middle School

• Shana Thompson, Crandall Freshman Center

• Shantrey Glenn, DAEP

JoAnne Walters

Gloria Pelcher

Shana Thompson

Lindsey Moses

Julia Tyndall

WE ARE THANKFUL TO HAVE THESE AMAZING EDUCATORS AS PART OF PIRATE NATION. THEY ARE MAKING A HUGE IMPACT IN THE CLASSROOM AND ON THEIR CAMPUS.

Shantrey Glenn

Melissa Gardner Marci Johnson

Pictured above in center of group, Terry Eason

SHANNON SCOTT

WILSON ELEMENTARY

Shannon Scott joined the 4th grade team this year, teaching English/ Language Arts at Wilson. Ms. Scott has learned a lot this year about working with students academically and socially. She has adapted her practices to ensure students are learning based on their needs. Ms. Scott is not afraid to ask questions and to make adjustments to provide the best she can for her students.

Students feel safe taking risks in her classroom. She takes time to get to know all your students on both a personal and an academic level. Ms. Scott uses this knowledge to make the learning process more intriguing and fun. She greets her students at the door with a smile each morning. She provides encouragement when needed. The students and parents have provided positive feedback about their relationship with Ms. Scott this year.

cisdAround

recap Spring Athletics

Spring is an exciting time for our Pirate athletes as it's the season when many of the top athletes compete in a variety of events. Whether it's on the track or on the field, CISD spring sports offer students the chance to showcase their talents and push themselves to new heights. In this article, we'll take a look at some of the recent achievements our Pirates accomplished for the 2023 spring sports season.

Track and Field

Track and field is one of the most popular spring sports, and it's easy to see why. This sport requires a great deal of speed, agility, and endurance, and it's a great way for students to stay active and improve their fitness levels. Recently, high school track and field athletes have been breaking records and setting new personal bests. In this year’s district area meet, several athletes broke school records. The men’s team (Josh Smith, Sammy Omosigho, Kendrick Jones, and Deondre Bowman) placed 3rd and set a new CISD record in the 4x100 relay, running it in just 41.71 seconds. The men’s 4x200 relay team (Luke Moffit, Josh Smith, Kendrick Jones, and Kase Mumphry) came in 2nd place overall, setting a record of 1 minute and 26.81 seconds. Additionally, in the same event, high school athlete Ainsley Horn set a new record in the 300 hurdles, finishing in just 46.28 seconds.

Baseball

The Crandall High School Pirates baseball team concluded their season with an impressive performance in the 5A Region II District 14. They showcased their skills and determination throughout the season, resulting in an admirable record of seven wins and five losses. Their hard

work and perseverance paid off as they secured a spot in the district playoffs, ultimately finishing in 4th place. The Pirates' exceptional performance led them to the bi-district finals, where they proved their grit as tough competitors. Although they fell short of claiming the bi-district championship, their journey as finalists highlights the talent and commitment they displayed on the field. The Crandall High School Pirates can be proud of their achievements and can look forward to building upon their success in future seasons.

Softball

The Lady Pirates' spring season for Crandall High School concluded with an exhilarating finale in their end-of-season softball tournament. The team battled lots of injuries and had to overcome a lot of adversity. With exceptional teamwork and strategic plays, the Lady Pirates managed to hold their own against opponents, displaying their unyielding determination and passion for the sport. The team had 14 Varsity athletes make Academic AllDistrict. Four athletes finished the season with over a .500 batting average. The Lady Pirates demonstrated that they are a force to be reckoned with, and their future endeavors in softball are destined to be filled with even greater success.

CISD Gold Dusters

On February 25th, the Gold Dusters competed at the Showtime International's Diamond Showcase. The team earned the following awards:

• SWEEPSTAKES AND JUDGES AWARD

• BEST IN CATEGORY TEAM JAZZ

• BEST IN CATEGORY TEAM MILITARY

• BEST IN CATEGORY TEAM LYRICAL

• BEST IN CATEGORY TEAM POM

• GRAND CHAMPION TEAM MEDIUM DIVISION

• GRAND CHAMPION DIRECTOR

• APPLAUSE AWARD FOR CHOREOGRAPHY ON TEAM LYRICAL

• APPLAUSE AWARD FOR OUTSTANDING TECHNIQUE IN ALL ROUTINES

• SUPREME AWARD TEAM MILITARY

• SUPREME AWARD TEAM LYRICAL

• SUPREME AWARD TEAM POM

• BEST OF THE BEST DIRECTOR

• BEST OF THE BEST TEAM (1ST PLACE OVERALL)

B U Y I N G O R S E L L I N G A H O M E ?

T H E H A R R I S R E A L T Y G R O U P I S H E R E F O R Y O U !

B u y i n g o r s e l l i n g a h o m e c a n b e a s t r e s s f u l p r o c e s s i f y o u d o n ' t h a v e t h e r i g h t r e a l e s t a t e t e a m . O u r m i s s i o n i s t o p r o v i d e

E X C E L L E N T & C O N S I S T E N T c u s t o m e r s e r v i c e e x p e r i e n c e 1 0 0 % o f t h e t i m e . T o b a s e e v e r y d e c i s i o n o n w h a t ' s b e s t f o r o u r c l i e n t s , H a r r i s R e a l t y G r o u p a s a w h o l e , a n d t h e n i n d i v i d u a l t e a m m e m b e r s .

Foundation Education

The Crandall ISD Education Foundation’s 7th Annual Golden Gala, “Masquerade Ball,” at The Statler in Dallas raised over $100,000. The funds raised benefit innovative programs in the classroom through teacher grants that are not supported by traditional tax dollars, as well as student scholarships. This year’s event highlighted our Career & Technical Education (CTE) programs, including the Culinary Department, which was featured in the auction that helped raise funds for the Foundation.

“The Foundation is so grateful to all of our community leaders, business partners, and supporters who together continue to support Crandall ISD and our fundraising efforts with the goal of supporting innovative education for all students,” said Nicole Tudor, CISD Foundation Manager. “Though we support every campus and department in the district, we continue to increase support for students interested in furthering their education in the trades and also supporting our teachers in the classroom.”

The Gala is the Foundation’s largest fundraising event of the year, and proceeds are used to enrich, enhance and maximize the quality of education for all students in Crandall ISD through scholarships, innovative classroom grants, teacher of the year awards, and more.

The Foundation is honored to have been supported by Platinum Sponsors WRA Architects, Inc., and Gallagher Construction Services, as well as Trinity Capital Bank of Texas, who were this year’s Auction Sponsor.

The CISD Education Foundation’s mission is to enrich teaching, inspire learning and enhance opportunities for all students enrolled in the Crandall ISD. The Foundation is an independent, non-profit corporation established by parents, local businesses, civic organizations, and community leaders to make a positive impact on public education.