Photos: Quinlan ISD
It Only Takes a Spark AUTHOR: TIFFONY CHAPMAN
Quinlan ISD Director of School-Community Relations
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UINLAN ISD IS FORTUNATE to have teachers and staff who continually go above and beyond their call of duty to ignite “sparks” with students in their care. Teachers who make an impact and spark little flames that grow into massive fires are the epitome of what an outstanding educator looks like. Their influence reaches beyond traditional instruction and classroom walls. Ashley King, a vocational teacher and coach at Ford High School, has sparked a flame in senior Panther football player Brandon James. We want to share that story in hopes that a #BeTheSpark trend will grow across our school district and beyond. This story begins with Quinlan ISD class of 2021 graduate, Jose Ortega. After graduating from Ford High School (FHS), Jose came back to school to gain additional employment skills available to him through the FHS vocational program.
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“Jose is a student who makes your heart melt. He has the biggest heart and always comes to school with the biggest smile on his face,” King shared. “Jose also loves sports - especially football. Earlier this year, Jose attended Meet the Panther night with his family, and I could tell he wanted to be a part of the football team so badly.” This is where Brandon James comes into the picture. King recognized what a great student and role model Brandon is, so she introduced Brandon to Jose. “It was remarkable how they instantly became friends. They took pictures together, and Brandon introduced Jose to the rest of the team,” King said. “Brandon has gone above and beyond to connect with Jose, to be his friend, and to make sure that Jose has been included in all things football.” As the school year has progressed, so has the friendship between Brandon and Jose. So much so, that Brandon now considers Jose one of his closest and dearest friends. “Jose is a nice guy, and he is always just so happy. I stop to say 'Hi' to him every chance I
