Volume I, Issue 6 (July 2016)

“The secret of education lies in respecting the student.” — Ralph Waldo Emerson

THE

Longview Voice Sharing the good news about LISD!

Vol. 1 No. 6 June 2016

A publication of Longview Independent School District

Complimentary Copy

Board sits new member, receives STAAR results

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Beloved teacher, administrator stepping down

ongview ISD thanked John Preston during the June 6 regular board meeting, and welcomed newlyelected Place 5 trustee Shandreka “Shan” Bauer.

Board members each, in turn, expressed heartfelt appreciation for Preston’s leadership and honorable example.

“In all of his interactions, whether out front in public or behind the scenes, John Preston was every bit a gentleman,” said board president Dr. Chris Mack.

“Not all of us can say that, I know I can’t,” Mack joked.

Preston spoke from the dais, congratulating Bauer and wishing her luck, and thanking the Longview community for entrusting him with making decisions on behalf of the public for 18 years.

“We’ve had our ups and downs, successes and failures, but I am very happy with where this school district is now, and know that it will only continue to get better,” he said.

LISD Superintendent Dr. James Wilcox praised the six-term incumbent for his years of commitment to the students and education professionals, thanking him for his service to the Longview community.

“It has been a pleasure to work with Mr. Preston for over nine years,” he said. “Mr. Preston always placed the students and employees of LISD first in every consideration and decision he made during his 18-year tenure as a board member. I consider John a friend as well as a colleague and wish he and his family the best in future endeavors.”

Place 6 incumbent Ted Beard was unopposed and will serve another three-year term on the board.

Board members also administered the oath of office to Bauer and Beard, before reorganizing officers for the coming term.

Officers for the LISD trustees will be Dr.

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ndrea Mayo has resigned as the deputy superintendent for Longview ISD, effective June 30, to take a position as Assistant Superintendent of Operations for Duncanville ISD. Mayo said she is stepping down to take a position closer to her residence in the Dallas area.

“It is with a heavy heart that I leave Longview ISD,” she said June 14. “It is not something I thought would ever happen, but the opportunity to be able work much closer to home — and spend more time with my family — was too good to pass up.”

See Beloved on Page 3

See Board on Page 4

Byrd, Mize named 2016 Teachers of the Year

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ngelina Byrd and Lisa Mize have been selected as Longview ISD’s 2016 elementary and secondary Teachers of the Year.

Byrd teaches at Johnston-McQueen Elementary, while Mize teaches at Foster Middle. The pair will represent the district for the next year, and in June will be considered for Region VII Teacher of the Year.

LISD Deputy Superintendent Andrea Mayo said the district is “extremely honored to recognize those named Teacher of the Year for each campus – the first step in the 2017 Texas Teacher of the Year selection process.”

“It’s also significant because the selections were made by their peers,” she said. “These individuals are outstanding educators whose efforts and example have inspired their students, their colleagues, and the communities they serve.”

Campus Teachers of the Year are chosen during the latter part of each school year by their principals and

Awards of Excellence honors arts, academics

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ongview ISD Administrators and Board of Trustees recognized student achievement in academics​as well as the arts May 17 during the 40th annual LHS Awards of Excellence Banquet at Pinecrest Country Club.

Each presentation of medals was accompanied by a creative arts performance by Longview High School students.

Receiving medals in the Academics category was the Class of 2016’s Top 2% Graduates Stephen Jayakar (valedictorian), Trevor O’Connor (salutatorian), Addison Holcomb, Benjamin Monsour, Truman Thompson, Tony Wang, Jordan Wright, and Krisana Yuen.

inside the

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Longview Voice

professional colleagues. A panel of former honorees and district staff then selects district elementary and secondary winners based on essay submissions.

Byrd, Mize, and other campus Teachers of the Year will be honored by the district’s Board of Trustees in the fall.

2016 Teachers of the Year Bramlette: Emily Hill Hudson PEP: Laura Vermillion J.L. Everhart: Kori Thompson Johnston-McQueen: Angelina Byrd Ned E. Williams: Sharon Collins South Ward: Israel Vazquez Ware: Cangelya Birdsong Forest Park: John Derr Foster: Lisa Mize Judson: Mindy Holley Longview High: Nancy Coots Early Graduate High: Pamela Anthony

Junior Achievement shares civics skills with students

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tudents at various Longview ISD campuses spent Wednesday and Thursday learning how their city and communities interact with business and government.

Working in partnership with Capital One, Eastman, and Joy Global, Junior Achievement of East Texas presented students with activities focused on civic planning, entrepreneurship, financial literacy, the role of government and media, as well as the difference between consumers and producers.

See Awards on Page 5

Opinion Elementary News

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MIddle School News High School News

See Junior on Page 5 5 6

LISD News Sports

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THE LONGVIEW VOICE —

Page 2

June 2016

LONGVIEW INDEPENDENT SCHOOL DISTRICT BOARD OF TRUSTEES AND ADMINISTRATION SALUTE Second Semester Honor Roll Students 2015-2016 Honor Roll with Distinction Longview High School Grade 12 Velia Adame Kaitlyn Adams Luke Armstrong Armando Arroyo Zoe Bailey Kierra Batiste Luis Bautista Valynnsia Bodie Seema Brimmer Elijah Brown Cristian Cardenas Briana Carr Dylan Carruthers Ronnie Collier Kristopher Cooper Gustavo Corrales Jennifer Cruz P J de Jong Cintia Delacruz Daniela Diaz Briana Duffield Ross Duvall Allison Efurd Tiffany Faber Jacob Frith Oscar Gonzalez Rachel Grant Austin Gutierrez Cannen Hanzik Roniya Haynes Sarah Henderson Andrea Hernandez Salvador Hernandez Addison Holcomb

Uwa Ihionkhan Shaderia Jackson Stephen Jayakar Kyleigh Johnson Julie Kambali Israel Landaverde Jenna Luensmann Emily Manchester Daniel Martin Joshua McCool Olivia McDonald Malaysia Mestas Brandon Mitchell Benjamin Monsour Allison MonthieKemp Clarence Moore Jkalon MorrisCarroll Jada Norton Meredith Novy Trevor O’Connor Nikolas Olson Lesli Ontiveros Karmen Partner Elizabeth Rabadan Tekia Randall Deja Richardson Caroline Ruff Grace Russell Aaron Scoggins Jaylon Seastrunk George Shannon Eric Smith Jessica Soltau Jonathan Sorey Robin Spencer Madison Stahl

Truman Thompson Corina Villa Andrew Van Vo Zhonglin Wang Miranda Welborn Mackhary Williams Madison Woodard Jordan Wright Krisana Yuen Grade 11 Jose Alvarado Anahi Arellano Blanca Arreola Raven Atkinson Daniel Bally Sunita Brimmer Jennifer Calles Mary Katherine Camp Brittney Campbell Anthony Castillo Lucy Castillo Ian Champion Mason Colvin Naomi Darbell Tia DeadmonWhite Jack Dipasquale Daisy Dugosh Evelyn Enriquez Daniele Farren Kareli Garcia Yasmine Gordon Christopher Guck Tyler Hendricks James Hill

Kayla Jackson Kaylee Jimmerson Michael Johnson Matayia Jones Jamal Lamb Alejandro Martinez Berrios Christian Mata Morgan Murphy Van Nguyen Skylar Orman Priyank Patel Rutvi Patel Abigail Pauley Audrey Payton Arjun Peddireddy Neal Rangu Jennifer Rico Aguilar Jakayla Rowlett Melissa Ruiz Karen Sanchez Andrea Sepulveda Jakiron Sheffield Jones Ashlyn Shobert Garrett Snyder Emmanuel Soria Alexis Stanford Isabel Suarez Kira Swan Lady Trejo Tiece Veasley Camron Wafer Ebee Ward Caitlin Wilcox Gus Williams Nicholas Writt Grade 10

Elizabeth Adeeko Vanessa Aguilar Kamri Alexander Naum Barron Elissa Branch Alexander Chatham Isabella Cowart Kasieghe Darensbourg Katy Friend Alexander Garza Jensen Gates Carrie Gilliland Levi Grant Stephanie Guck Mcandrew Henderson Alyssa Jester Madeline Johnson Sean King Maria Landin William Langston Collin Lee Alda Lim Rachel Lin Olivia Lorenz Justin Melendez Hannah Miller Quentasia Miller Vanessa Monsivais Jhaleyah Moore Bailey Odom Justice Renner Cynthia Rodriguez Meera Singhal Carter Sorrels Ledale Sparkman

Noah Terry Zachariah Tullow Kyra Turner Andres Villarreal Taylor Weedon Suzanne Zeid Grade 9 Cristina Adame Blake Aldridge Gregory Boudreau Sophie Bunn Jacob Carruthers Gabrielle Davis Kimberly Diez Amanda Dominguez Surya Donty Alexis Freeman Emma Frierson Nicholas Gaar Maritza Gonzalez Barriet Gray Austin Greifenkamp Mary Claire Henderson Alexa Hernandez Kelloni Hogan William Holloman Allison Howe Ejehi Ihionkhan Adam Jones Measha Brianna Jones Melvin Carl Jones Colin Loyd Madelyn Mack Daniel Mancha

Blake Martin Laura Martinez Fatima Massare Somers Jessica Mena Brady Miller Shelberly Moore Evan Pistone Nitin Rangu Morgan Roberts Kathryn Roper Payton Schaap Jonathan Scott Natalie Serrato Magdalena Shen Alyssa Shobert Gaurav Singh Manuel Suarez Benjamin Taylor Samantha Taylor Tony Walker Anna Ward Noah Williams Meredith Wright Alexis Wyman Jordan Yoder Foster Middle School Grade 8 Abigail Archer Kyle Ashley Karla Bobadilla Zoe Brown Colby Byrnes Logan Hall Guinevere Harris Lucy Henderson Jaselyn Hill Robert Hough

Simran Kortikere Katherine McCrory Emily Mendenhall Bhavna Singh Carly Snyder Cortland Venters Grade 7 Delia Acuna Diana Acuna Rylee Babino Stella Barton Justin Beltran Kiaira Coates Alexa Gomez Nicholas Goodan Ivriah Horton Margaret Jackson Nathan Johnson Ethan Jones Ayaan Khan Harrison Lin Samantha Martinez Cooper Mayes Elizabeth Monsour Austin Pencheon Mallory Reeves Alejandro Rojas Monsivais Alexandra Rojas Monsivias Alexandra Sanchez Valerie Smith Dashawna Steverson Colby Stokes

Caroline Taylor Luisa Toledo Elizabeth Wall Charles Ward Emma Williams Grade 6 Emily Arambula Cisneros Zane Bunn Rylee Camp Jake Chamberlain Juan Chavez Safin Chowdhury Rachna Edalur Iniabasi Ekpenyong Diego Enriquez Arya Germanwala Colleen Gilliland Dylan Gonzalez Thomas Greifenkamp Matthew Guck Carson Hilliard Natalie Holder Anthony Holyfield Isabella Hough Rylee Hunter Otibhor Ihionkhan Aditya Jagarlamudi Nitya Jagarlamudi Alexis Jones Ian Mahjoobi Neha Nirmal Gowri Rangu Cesia Santacruz Kaitlyn Stewart

Brayden Strong Will Waltrip Chancellor Williams Forest Park Middle School Grade 8 Anthony Benitez Ramiro Cerda Jaidah Horton Quintana King Jasmine Vazquez Grade 7 Adriauna Benjamin Molly Escandon Angel Evans Diana Flores Judith Frayre Mia Goffney Noah Green Daija Molina Daniel Reyes Julisa Vazquez Grade 6 Zemirah Cage Juan Cerda Makayliana Gardner Adrian Gauna Edgar Mata Angelina Rodriguez Celia Rodriguez

Grade 8 Fatima Akilo Emma Broquie Breonna Garrett Brennin Gilespie Lamya Gillis Hannah Greathouse Valerie Lindsey Skyela Lummus Kaylie Ortega Christy Truong Grade 7 Jennifer Capella Kimberly Delgado Tatum Fenton Daisy Nieto Kate Pimentel Cameron Roberts Katelyn Taylor Grade 6 Josue Chavez Michaela Hayes Kevin Loya Moncada Joshua Thompson Kayden Turner

Judson Middle School

Regular Honor Roll Longview High School Grade 12 Daniel Adkins Emily Aguilar Rene Aguilar Celina Aguirre Shadarria Alexander Esteban Alvarado Bermudez Emily Araiza Robert Babbitt Jaleah Bailey Lachyance Baker Karen Barrios Daniel Barron Veronica Barron Kelvin Barton Kierra Black Alexa Blair Jakari Blakemore Justin Bowman Courtney Bradley Christopher Braggs Harleigh Brinkman Yesenia Briseno Francisca Brooks Maliek Brooks Lawvenna Brookshire Tyler BuchananAnderson Alexis Butron Cathryn Campbell Sabrina Campbell Tatiana Carrillo David Castillo Jazmyne Castillo Mercedes Cole Catalina Crawford Zo’E Crayton Shai Ann Davenport Maci Davis Conrad Deller Soumya Donty Matthew Dossey Kelsey Dunn LaCarya Dyer Marorri Espy Isabel Estrada Cristina Fajardo Macy Fidler Reed Fisher Ross Fisher Mykayla Fontaine Armando Frayre Natalia Gasic Bryan Gilliland Zachary Gipson Estrella Gonzales Autumn Gorton Megan Hall Shaquantala Hall Tenia Harris Jayden Heath Dorketa Henderson Charles Henry Jocelyn Hernandez Juan Hernandez Wendy Hernandez Amber Hodge Keyarro Hollins Kaitlyn Hufstetler Christopher Hunter Chantrel Hutchings Jalan Jackson La’Joyra Jackson Lauralee Jackson Ailyn Jacques Cody Jenkins Ben Johnson Joshua Johnson Gerrica Jones Siddharth Kortikere Gaylen Lyons Margarita Madrid Shay Massey Edith Mendez Graycen MidlerCline Stephfonique Mitchell Giovanni Monsivais Anthony Moon Samuel Moreno Jade Morris Stacy Nelson Melissa Noe Mercedes Nunley Ruby Olivas Paola Orona Fabiola Panameno Jeremias Peralta Ki’Ambria Pierce Nyelan Powell Welby Powell Delia Quick Ruby Ramos Daylon Rayson Alyssa Recendiz Frida Reyes Teazjah Robertson Lila Robinett Jalisia Robinson Joyradyn Rollins Alyson Roper

Robyn Roper Zachary Rosenfield Michael Ross Josue Ruiz Adam Sanchez German Sanchez Liliana Sanchez Nickolas Sarmiento Leslie Saucedo Zurisaday Saucedo Danielle Shillow Reymundo Solis Barrios Josue Soria Carolina Soto Roberta Spencer Stephen Stanford Kristi Stevens Keith Tave Brenda Taylor Chelsey Templeton Aiyana Thomas Michael Thompson Caitlynn Todd Lamarcus Todd Angel Torres Raquel Torres Treseme Turner Eduardo Vaca Albertus Van Zyl Andrew Washington Briana Wheat Angel Williams Gerrick Williams De’Waylon Woolridge Ayana Young Ivan Zuniga Grade 11 Briana Aguilar Stephanie Aguilar April Alejandro Gustavo Almazan Jakayla Anthony Miranda Arredondo Ivan Balderas Fransisco Basoria James Beard Jnajaha Bell Marche’Nique Bell Lorenzo Bennett Maci Benson Ashleigh Benton Serenity Bolby Yasmine Bradley Elease Brown Raymesha Butler Janise Campbell Christopher Caraway Daijia Carr Bianca Ceballos Zaida Cerda Eric Chavarria Barbra Coby Khadejah Colbert Daquiaveon Collins Ty Crabb Hector Cuevas Bryce Cunningham Mary Katherine Darby Jasten Darensbourg Brady Davis Jahleel Davis Haley Deitz Selma Deluna Sarah Dickerson Khloe Dunn Madeline Duvall Keira Eynon Ja’Quavion Faggans Lashreenda Fields Tristen Fisher Lyndsey Fletcher Isabel Fuentes Brayan Garcia Cepeda Daija Garrett Levondrick George Brock Goffney Marianna Gomez Jessica Green Juan Grimaldo Tanya Guevara Huerta Cody Haggerty LaMya Harris Skyler Henderson Aston Henry Marco Hernandez Boyu Hu Billy Hubbard Melissa Hudson Erath Islas Bailey Jackson Bryant Jackson Deshanta Jackson Kyla Jackson Jayla James Sunshine Jenkins Abby Jester Iran Jimenez Alexandria Johnson Kaland Johnson

Mea Johnson Saran Keita Ke’Atra King Alexander Lammers Victoria Leak Cheyenne Lee Jordan Leek Noemi Luna Jacqueline Maldonado Olivia Manzo Anayeli Martinez Macedo Kasandra Martinez Silvia Martinez Jasmine Medrano Ramon Miramontes Jannah Mitchell Ysidro Montano Hayden Montoya Deja Moore Erion Nelson Benjamin Nguyen Franklin Noe Morgan Norvell Carol Ocana Ibironke Olatunji Kary Olvera Jarrett Orange Dixon Evelin Osborne Taylor Overton Kayla Owings Hannah Palmer Ronaldo Patino Chandler Peoples Kimberly Peralta Marcos Peralta Diego Perez Dayton Pilcher Cristian Pinales Genesis Pineda Mario Plata Harris D’Crayvan Polk Shamariya Powell Amy Ramos Abraham Rebollar Samantha Recendiz Aubrie Reed Christian Rios Kryzmon Robertson Chelsi Rosenbalm M’Riyah Roundtree Sara Rueda Dantrell Rugley Hailey Ryan Heather Ryan Jared Sanchez John Scott Nadia Scribner Lance Shelton Stayton Shields Georgina Smith Patrice Smith Lacy Stanfill Elleven Still Christion Taylor Felipe Tovar Pedro Vargas Noe Vasquez Austin Vincent Shaquincy Watts Justin Wendt Jayla Williams Steven Yanez Guillermo Zuniga Grade 10 Alexandra Adams Ana Aguilar Kimberly Aguilar Markevian Allison Briseida Alvarez Jose Amador Hyyman Anthony Ivan Arroyo Decosia Avila Mariana AvilesGutierrez Joshua Babino Maria Barrios Tatyana Bauer Mackenzie Bogue Matthew Boles Katorian Borens Stevie Boyd Jose Briseno Ellison Brown Erica Brown Imani Bush Kevion Bush Morgan Butler Jarrett Camp Leslie Campos Alicia Cerda Nino Jason Chadwick Esquira Collier Gregory Collins Luis Cornejo Felisha Cowan Keiana Cox Isthar Cruz Bartolo Martin Cruz Rachel Deller David Dillon Zeru Dong

Cole Earnest Brooklyn Eldridge Shamya Espy Matthew Eustace Kennedy Eynon Noah EzigboDessesaure Nathaniel Fitzgerald Marian Frith Diana Garcia Lucero Gomez Nathaniel Grantz Makelian Guice Magaly Gurrola Gabrielle Hall Jeffrey Hamilton Tyler Hart D’Zyre Heckard Saigelen Henry Brenda Hernandez Levi Hesley Anahi Hinojosa Marquayvion Humble-Gaines Paul Hutchins Victor Jaimez Anel Jasso Ashley Jeffery Maria Jimenez Ambershae Johnson Caitlin Johnson Kendle Johnson Shawnalisa Johnson Kaylan Jones Mary-Claire Jones Triniti Jones D’Nia Kennedy Christopher Kessler Amiyah Key Faith Kruger Rosa Lambarria Austin Lawson Jordan Lawson Nickissia Lawson Joredyn Lewish Jackson Lockhart Daniela Lopez Salazar Mikielah Marshall Sergio Martinez Gary Mayo Hallie McFarland Ashley Mendenhall Susana Mercado Brooke Mitchell Veronica MonclavaSoto Itzel Montoya Fantasy Moore Quasana Moore Whitney Morgan Lakevinya Moss Benjamin Murphy Wyatt Nelson Dalery Nieto Olivia Norrell Celeste Nunez Matthew Ojalvo Jonathan Ontiveros Jovany Ontiveros Teresa Orona Leslie Osorio Jasmine Patton Destiny Perez Filogonio Perez Lizeth Perez Autumn Pierce Chloe Pliler Joshua Pointer Jacob Posey Yasmine Powell Kaylee Quinney Maria Quintero Azucena Reyes Job Reyes Jonathan Reyes Lauren Roberts Tahjaa Robertson Yazmin Rodriguez NaDaishia Rugley Tyetiana Rugley Abigail Ruiz Keyla Ruiz Mary Russell Fernanda Salcedo Jamia Sanders Debraciana Sash Madison Schochler Aalasia Sheridan Jaiden Smith Logan Spence Dornesha Stevenson Noah Summers Gabriela Talavera Sahory Tapia Jada Taylor Kindra Taylor Malayka Taylor Skylor Terry Ezekiel Tullos Jacobus Van Zyl Kyia Walker Tia Watts Jennifer Whitfield Tyler Wilder

Grade 9 Selena Aguinaga Vanessa Aguirre Seth Alex Isaac Alvarado Pedro Alvarado Dalexus Anderson Kalyn Anderson Celina Baeza Rynie Barnes Evan Bell Madison Bennett Shadda Botkin Harvey Boyd Ambresha Bryant Julia Capella Jonathan Cardona Micheal Carraway Chew Sterling Caspersen Eduardo Cerda Emma Clark Dalisha Cooks Mara Cooks Maria Corona John Cox Kade Crawford Selena Cruz Luisa Cuevas Sauntiania Darden Margie Davis Kysean Dixon Angela Dominguez Jordan Edwards Devin Eidson Giovanni Enriquez Emelia Escalona Jarda Evans Zachary Fasang Ghnytra Ford Taleiah Fortner Daniel Fourie Ralfe Francisco Jar Den Gallon Ariana Garcia Sanchez Celia Garcia Yasmine Gardner Autumn Gauthier Abbey Gideon Alondra Gonzalez Carla Gonzalez Christian Gonzalez Alexis Gurunian Manuel Gutierrez Martinez Joshua Harry Marcus Harry Eric Hernandez Aslan Hilliard Christopher Holyfield Jesus Huerta Jaydyn James-Rollins Christopher Jimenez Camryn Johnson Kelinda Jones Erin Kelly Julissa Landeverde Alexandria Lanier Chelsea Laury Esmeralda Liro Jephaniah Lister Claire Long Brayan Loyola Monica Lozano Nicole Magee Jimmie Martin Latavia Martin Alondra Martinez Fatima Massare Somers Edwin MataMontealvo Jane Mayo Sernomia McCants Rachel McCarty Paxton McConnell Tamia McGee Myles Meader Corbin Meadows Emily Medina Isaac Montoya Paul Morin Angelo Niyonzima Karla Orona Leslie Padron Nallely Pascual Cielo Peralta Joseline Perez Aguilera Aijhanique Peters Tania Piedra Moreno Lucki Pilcher Ainsley Polk Victoria Ponce Jacob Powell Estephania Ramirez Tania Ramirez Cristina Resendiz Yuliana Rico Rubio Emily Aguilar Rico Gavin Roberts Jacob Rogers Ismael Roman Keithan Ross

Alondra Ruelas Fernando Ruiz Trinity Saiz Alejandro Sarmiento Key’Yon’Tae Shaw William Sherman Leonardo Silva Marquel Smith Samuel Snyder Lee Stanley Princess Taylor Elijah Thomas Kassidy Thompson Mark Thompson Mia Torres Karina Torres Mindy Tran Mouminatou Traore Michael Traylor Iris Trejo Andrade Morgan Vance Fabio Ventura Daiton Wells Kasey Whitenack Alyssa Williams Marcus Williams Roy Lee Williams Selena Aguinaga Vanessa Aguirre Seth Alex Isaac Alvarado Pedro Alvarado Dalexus Anderson Kalyn Anderson Celina Baeza Rynie Barnes Evan Bell Madison Bennett Shadda Botkin Harvey Boyd Ambresha Bryant Julia Capella Jonathan Cardona Micheal Carraway Chew Sterling Caspersen Eduardo Cerda Emma Clark Dalisha Cooks Mara Cooks Maria Corona John Cox Kade Crawford Selena Cruz Luisa Cuevas Sauntiania Darden Margie Davis Kysean Dixon Angela Dominguez Jordan Edwards Devin Eidson Giovanni Enriquez Emelia Escalona Jarda Evans Zachary Fasang Ghnytra Ford Taleiah Fortner Daniel Fourie Ralfe Francisco Jar Den Gallon Ariana Garcia Sanchez Celia Garcia Yasmine Gardner Autumn Gauthier Abbey Gideon Alondra Gonzalez Carla Gonzalez Christian Gonzalez Alexis Gurunian Manuel Gutierrez Martinez Joshua Harry Marcus Harry Eric Hernandez Aslan Hilliard Christopher Holyfield Jesus Huerta Jaydyn James-Rollins Christopher Jimenez Camryn Johnson Kelinda Jones Erin Kelly Julissa Landeverde Alexandria Lanier Chelsea Laury Esmeralda Liro Jephaniah Lister Claire Long Brayan Loyola Monica Lozano Nicole Magee Jimmie Martin Latavia Martin Alondra Martinez Fatima Massare Somers Edwin MataMontealvo Jane Mayo Sernomia McCants Rachel McCarty Paxton McConnell Tamia McGee Myles Meader

Corbin Meadows Emily Medina Isaac Montoya Paul Morin Angelo Niyonzima Karla Orona Leslie Padron Nallely Pascual Cielo Peralta Joseline Perez Aguilera Aijhanique Peters Tania Piedra Moreno Lucki Pilcher Ainsley Polk Victoria Ponce Jacob Powell Estephania Ramirez Tania Ramirez Cristina Resendiz Yuliana Rico Rubio Emily Aguilar Rico Gavin Roberts Jacob Rogers Ismael Roman Keithan Ross Alondra Ruelas Fernando Ruiz Trinity Saiz Alejandro Sarmiento Key’Yon’Tae Shaw William Sherman Leonardo Silva Marquel Smith Samuel Snyder Lee Stanley Princess Taylor Elijah Thomas Kassidy Thompson Mark Thompson Mia Torres Karina Torres Mindy Tran Mouminatou Traore Michael Traylor Iris Trejo Andrade Morgan Vance Fabio Ventura Daiton Wells Kasey Whitenack Alyssa Williams Marcus Williams Roy Lee Williams Foster Middle School Grade 8 Omar Arteaga Camarah Avila Andrew Beltran Kei’Azia Brice Shyanna Brown Jarolyn Butler Kennedy Cameron Kerris Cameron Arnulfo Campos Lindsey Cannon Chloe Cook Kaven Darty Jaterria Dotrey Izadayna Eaton Lilly EzigboDessesaure Jesus Galvan Daisy Gaona Shalyni Gaskin Hannah Gerold Maria Gomez Barrios Jocelyn Gonzalez Maryah Green Matthew Hanson Olivia Heichelheim Alexis Hunter Luis Jasso Ricardo Jasso Torey Johnson Ashton Jones Raquel Landaverde Raileigh Levingston Jose Lopez Del Rio Ava Loyd Cristopher Macedo Ashley Martin Edgar Martinez Victor Mendoza De Leon De’Asia Mumphrey Jazmin Nunez London Pairett Griselda Palencia Cherry Parker Zoe Perry Janette PlataMagana X’Savian Rockwell Emma Russell Erandy Salgado Desiree Sanchez Lauren Sanders Jordan Scoggins Karla Solis Sanani Spivey Bryson Sumrow Whitney Taylor Moiya Toliver Ciara Toney

Jonathan Tran Destini Vaughn Alexander Villagrana Makayla Washington Damian White Shakyla Williams Verona Williams Paola Zarate Lopez Grade 7 Maria Angel Anabel Arce Bryan Avila John Blackburn Jack Bolding Isabel Breaux Aracely Briseno Amaree Broughton Chatiryn Butler Jonathan Castanon Nehemiah Colbert Perla Cuevas Alaizja Davis Destini Davis Macorian Dawkins William Dixon Sebastian Dominguez Jaden Dunn Axel Escobar Skylar Fondren Karrissa Forrest Leticia Fuentes Loera Ceci Garcia Lindsey Garcia Daniella Garrett Jesus Gonzalez Molina Eduardo Gonzalez Francisco Gonzalez Anna Hairston Brandt Herber Karina Hernandez Reginald Hutchins Shannon Jackson Camryn Jacobs Christi’ana James Kyla Johnson Sydnee Jones Joshua Kennel Alexandria Levy Alejandro Lopez Del Rio Kaitlyn Mancha Royce McConnell Meagan McGuire Edwin Miramontes Daniel Morin Omar Morin Sarah Neely Braden Nickel Jacqueline Norman Alexis Nunley Carolina Olivas Miriam Orona Cristian Puentes Bobadilla Kelsey Quiett Carlos RamirezCastillo Andre Sanchez Reyna Sanchez Ti’Ara Sanders Alexandra Santacruz Dalton Serrato Aiden Shepherd Zoey Sheppard Averie Shobert Rachael Smith Esther Soto Kayla Stafford Evelyn Summers Mia Taylor Sharon Webb Tamia Wesley Noah White Sh’Niyah Williams Shamiracle Wobbington Yareli Zarate Grade 6 Amy Aciano Victor Aguilar Brianna Alderman Sarah Barnes Tenique Bauer Bethany Bledsoe Preston Byrnes Lexie Cannon Julisa Chapa Tre’Von Clough Connor Cox Clancy Davis Itoro Ekpenyong Abigail Frierson Jannet Garcia Tucker Gary Miranda Gonzalez Bianey Jimenez Chanireya Jones Mason LaMaster Jarrett Lewis Lesly Macedo Nathan Magee

Angelina Medrano Nathaley Medrano Angie Mendoza Kylee Olvera Dolores Pena Chelsee Phillips Kesi Ransom Jeremyah Rice Rebecca Roberts Joshua Sanders I’Chanti Sheppard Jayden Smith Caroline Snyder Angel Soto Palacios Luke Spence Brooklynn Sumrow Dekalon Taylor Harrison Taylor Kate Thompson Mariah Thompson Mya Vance Julia Wilson Abigail Zavala Forest Park Middle School Grade 8 Daiquan Adaway Adriana Aguirre Marissa Arellano Emilee Bailey Ivette Barrios Jye’Ayjiah Bush Zeniyah Cage Aracely Carrillo Lucero Casas Dalen Colbert Julia Corrales Raean Cowan Destiny Durden Jessica Espinoza Nayely Garcia Austin Gatson Jhy’Mhyriron Gay Rebecca Glasco Jesse Gonzalez Virginia Gonzalez Cameron Guerrero Leticia Gutierrez Keyaria Harrison Makaya Johnson Sha’Kidreana NiDerrick Lewis Eric Lopez Jesica Lopez Aylacia Luna Melinda Mancilla Gerardo Martinez Zayra Martinez Jordan McClain Jimmy Medina Amri Merrill Lesly Montemira Jasmin Moreno Jacquelin Morin Teresa Olvera Sophie Phillips Daniel Rodriguez Ricardo Rodriguez Maricela Roque Alexis Santander Na’Kia Saunders Diamond Smith Lesli Torres Jacqueling Vazques Jonathan Vazquez J Trinity Writt Grade 7 Annabelle Arreguin Victor Alvarez Anarosa Arreguin Gabriel Barajas-Nava Jacorbin Calico Camron Caraway Alejandra Carnero Fabian Castillo Emily Cornejo Dulce Corona Jonathan Coto Riley Crawford Angela Dominguez Deserre Dunn Zayda Estrada Makayla Foster Zariah Gardner Alexa Gonzalez Millie Gonzalez Ashley Guerrero Nural Islam Ja’Mya Jimerson Kelsey Johnson Dawellington Jones Carmen Lambarria Nia’Kiaya Lewis Brisa Lopez Freddy Lopez Michele Loza Wesley Manion Dulce Montalvo Irene Orrosquieta Wendy Pacheco Garcia Rafael Reyes Alexis Richardson

Eric Rios Maira Rodriguez Nancy Suarez Jose Torres Keynesia Turner Aldo Vargas Alma Vasquez Eduardo Vasquez Malaysia Venters Kara Vial D’Niya Washington Miguel Ybarra Grade 6 Alijah Beckworth Ja’Kayla Bravo Sarah Cabrera Edely Chavarria Luisa Contreras Saavedra Adriana Corona De’Traveian Davis Aileen Dominguez Stephanie Dortch Judith Espinoza Christi Esquivel Ilasia Fernandez Gabriel Flores Jacquilina Foster Manuel Hernandez Santillan Perla Hernandez Maria Islam Zoe’ Kelt Malik Lewis Kyler Light Kei’Adriah Lister Marlene Lopez Leslie Martinez Gavin Mendez Thomas Moctezuma Machayla Peterson Jaiden Pierce Saul Ramirez Kenesha Redden Cierra Richardson Joel Rincon Anthony Rios Eamonn Rose Keven Ruelas Gabriela Santo Carrasco Wayne Singleton Robert Spencer Alicia Torres Juan Vargas Zakeya Wells Denim Worth Judson Middle School Grade 8 Brayan Aguilar Salas Bernita Allen Elena Alvarez Arielle Bennett Jasmyn Berlanga Myrna Briones Eduardo Brooks Anna Burson Chase Caviness Zarea Collins Avery Cotton Avione Davenport Kaitlyn Dossey Gleisy Escobar Fabian Iris Gallegos Breonna Garrett Lacharity Harris Penelope Hattenbach Adrian Henderson John Hodges Savannah Humphrey Emily Janner Christa Jeffery Nicholas Johnson Kylie Kane Joshua Kittrell Jace Kopke Jacob Marshall Ashley McFarland Judson Mercier Julia Miller Alejandra Montano Timothy Nardi Yadira Pacheco Mallory Parker Betsy Rodriguez Isaac Romero Kiyra Rose Sadie Sadler Coy Sanders Kayla Smith Nayeli Solis Keivonna Templeton Annabel Thomas Deja Thomas Alexia Tovar James Tucker Summer Tullos Alex Vazquez Lucia Ventura Carmen Vermillion Jakayla Watts Povsocheata You

Grade 7 Maliyah Alexander Jennifer Barrios Madeline Bates Jy’Christon Baxter Ma’Laysia Bell Christian Benitez Domonique Bowie Olivia Branham William Brewer Devin Brooks Pricila Cardona Isabella Castillo Cade Caviness Landon Courtney Sebastian Dart Soto Ja’Iilah Davis Riley Elswick Grant Endsley Kaitlyn Foreman Alexis Gillo Alanee Gonzales David Graham Corey Gray Kevon Green Haleigh Hamm Adriunna Hawkins Mary Hawkins Destiny Johnson Tarah Lister Javion Magee Lyzvette Martinez Melanie Martinez Ian McCarty Kaden Meredith Samantha Neely Sau-Kei Neugent Sau-nya Neugent Logan Noguera Christopher Palmer David Parks Alexa Polanco Jairen Pradia Murray Roberts Stephanie Rodriguez David Rosales Lanecia Samers Avery Shirley Shueilla Soto Madison Stewart Aiyan Stoker Jessica Tapia Preston Taylor Emily Tran Jonathan Tutt Robert Vinson Carmon Williams Grade 6 Victor Avelar Emily Branham Kaylee Brown Samantha Campos Stacy CaporalyMagana Diana Castillo Madalyn Creel Andres Dart-Soto Stephen Davis Brianna Estrada Xitialy Estrada Carla Favela Soto Kingston Gordon Trinity Hanes Joshua Harrison Cristine Hodges Madison Hunka Jessenia Hunt Christian Jeffery Alexia Jorgenson Preston Kampfer Leilani Lobo Dayanna Maldonado Lacy McClellan Devin Mize Cailan Montgomery Rodney Moore Kelli Owings Destineigh Palacios Aniya Perkins Ashtonn Polk Christopher Raney Angel Reyes Jacqueline Rodriguez Joshua Romero Olivia Sherrow Summer Simmering Alex Solis Narvelia Solorzano Cameron Stewart Jessica Stowers Samuel Stroman Mikayla Strube Tneya Washington Ashley Zamora

THE LONGVIEW VOICE —

Page 3

June 2016

OPINION

You think you have obstacles?

By Mayor Andy Mack

D

ear Lobos, A few weeks ago I attended the LISD Special Education Track and Field Day. Truth be told, I had a very busy morning that day and it took quite a bit of finagling to be able to attend, but boy am I glad I did. It was one of the most moving experiences I have had as Mayor.

Having a special needs niece with Down Syndrome, probably made the experience a bit more poignant. Alex will start her sophomore year at LHS in the fall, and has been one of our family’s most positive lifechanging experiences. You haven’t really lived until you have watched life through Alex’s eyes. Whether that be through her dancing, singing (loudly) or hearing her beautiful, heartfelt prayers. Having Alex in our lives has been one of the most unexpected and amazing blessings that I never could have imagined.

But back to May 13, when I first arrived at Lobo Stadium, I noticed several groups of special education students all lined up on the track in a very orderly fashion — all of which were teeming with excitement and enthusiasm. That very sight buckled my knees.

As each group walked around the track, I noticed many of the children had disabilities.

Some could be seen visibly and some could not. A disability is defined as “the consequence of an impairment that may be physical, cognitive, intellectual, mental, sensory, developmental or some combination of these that results in restrictions on an individual’s ability to participate in what is considered normal in their everyday society.”

This definition led me to ask myself, What is normal?

I believe the society we live in has a skewed viewpoint on normalcy. Because of social media, television, newsprint, magazines — we consider “normal” to be the people we see on the big screens — the rich and famous. But oh, they are so far from normal.

More often than not, their lives are filled with deceit, distrust, immorality, and lack of faith.

Thanks to the vision of Mr. James Brewer and Ms. Joyce Thompson, “normalcy” was redefined on May 13 at Lobo Stadium.

“Normalcy” stood, walked, wheeled, and was carried around that track revealing a vision of love, faith, hope, trust, compassion, and excitement. I don’t know about you, but that’s what I want my “normal” to be.

When I think about the struggles these young people face on a day-to-day basis, my “normal” needs a reality check. The sheer effort for these students to get out of bed, to take a shower, get dressed, comb their hair... the preparation time it takes them to do what I do every day causes me to pause. And not just effort to do the everyday things that we all take for granted; but then to show up on a track to compete, give it your best, and to be the sunshine for all in attendance.

I would be remiss if I did not recount the Lobo football players who escorted each group around the track. I watched as they carried their classmates; sometimes emotionally with encouraging words and sometimes even physically by carrying those who otherwise would not have been able to participate without being carried in their arms. The cheerleaders and Viewettes were on hand as well — celebrating not only the day, but the lifetime of accomplishments experienced by their peers. It was a day of glory for each participant. As well as a day of joy for each spectator.

Some might argue that such an event does not have educational value. I would argue that much learning did occur — especially for a guy like me. To really take a step back, and think about the love that exists when you do something for someone who cannot possibly do it for themselves or ever repay you. Is there any greater lesson than to learn to give without expecting something in return? Thank you, Longview Lobos, for reminding me of one of life’s most important lessons.

This day belonged to those kids who competed with their all. The gleam in their eyes and the joy in their smile, the sense of accomplishment in their sweat — evidence of effort was everywhere. As each one crossed the finish line, they became Champions. Once a Champion, always a Champion.

I was and am proud to be Lobo alumni — once a Lobo, always a Lobo.

Study hard, have some fun, and say your prayers, Andy — Dr. Andy Mack is a 1978 graduate of Longview High School. A maxillofacial surgeon for more than 25 years, he is currently owneroperator of East Texas Oral and Maxillofacial Surgery in Longview.

Good for the goose, but not the gander?

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exas Attorney General Ken Paxton called the recent Supreme Court decision “a major victory for the people of Texas, who have faced an endless parade of lawsuits following any attempt to finance schools in the state.”

To describe seven well-documented lawsuits, that spanned a period of nearly 33 years, and ultimately brought about much needed reforms (or at the very least provided for some ardent discussions about our inequitable and inadequate school finance system) seems a little over the top. Especially given the fact that Paxton has filed nine lawsuits against our federal government since assuming office in January 2015, just 18 months ago.

Hmmm... that’s one school finance case by school districts every 4.7 years versus one federal case by the Office of the Attorney General every 9 weeks.

The Office of the Attorney General has many other duties, including the option to file civil (or criminal) suits upon referral by other state agencies and, in some circumstances, has original jurisdiction to prosecute violations of the law without a referral from another agency. In other words, Paxton possesses quite a bit of sway and since taking office has appeared eager to use it.

By contrast, the 600+ school districts involved in the latest round of the school finance litigation were not there because of sway, but because a lawsuit was their last recourse.

Plaintiffs spent months weighing their options, meeting with their school boards, and holding community forums before choosing to file suit. The decision to do so was not easy, so to call such a massive undertaking of more than half of our State’s school districts part of “an endless parade” so flippantly is uninformed and careless.

Those 600+ school districts, their children, their taxpayers, and their communities were fighting for what they rightly deserve--an equitable and adequate system at a fair tax rate.

An opportunity for their children to do well.

And lest we forget, it is the duty of the Texas Legislature to provide. It says so in the Constitution.

— The Equity Center is a nonpartisan, non-profit organization of over 700 school districts across the state ranging in size, demographics, and location.

Hey incoming juniors: start working on scholarships NOW!

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ounselors and scholarship experts agree: The earlier you start your scholarship search and application process, the better your chances to find scholarships you’re eligible for and win money for college.

While you may think that senior year is the best time to really begin the scholarship process, beginning in your junior year can offer huge rewards.

Whether it’s something as simple as getting a feel for what will be required of the scholarship application process or going all the way and applying for scholarships that are available to juniors, there are many ways and reasons for students to get started on their scholarship search before senior year.

• You’ll have the time to find as many scholarships as possible. Students wanting to maximize the amount of money they can win from scholarships should apply to as many as they have time for and are eligible. The first step in this process, of course, is finding these scholarships!

It’s true that many scholarships are focused on students in their senior year or already in college, but that doesn’t mean you can’t do the research now and create a list that includes eligibility requirements, deadlines and award amounts that will set you on the right path when the time comes to apply.

Get the search started with resources like CollegeGreenlight. com, which matches you to scholarships you’re eligible for, and extend it into having conversations with teachers, counselors and members of your community to find even more scholarships for students in your area.

• You’ll be able to stay on top of year-round scholarship

Beloved|Continued from Front LISD Superintendent Dr. James Wilcox said Mayo leaves “big shoes to fill” and thanked her for her long and distinguished service to the district.

“Andrea Mayo is a consummate professional and has proven herself time and time again as a tireless champion for our students and staff. Not only that, but she has been a wonderful colleague and friend throughout my tenure at LISD,” he said. “While we all wish her the best in the future, we will all miss her very much.”

Mayo has worked for Longview ISD since coming to the district in 1979 as a Special Education teacher at Foster Middle School. Since that time she has served as a classroom teacher, assistant principal, supervisor and director, in addition to filling the role as interim superintendent on two occasions. She said one of her favorite jobs was serving as principal of the former Doris McQueen Primary School.

A native of Louisiana, Mayo holds a B.A. in education from Louisiana Tech University and a masters degree in secondary educational administration from Stephen F. Austin State University.

deadlines. While some seasons have more scholarship deadlines than others, there are deadlines throughout the year.​By starting your list of scholarships early, you’ll be able to stay ahead of the curve to make sure that you don’t miss the chance to apply to a scholarship because the application closed before you learned the scholarship existed.

One way to make sure you do not miss future deadlines is to create a list of scholarships organized by date. You can then prioritize your application process by factors like urgency, level of effort required and award amount. Doing this will help you to make the most of your time if it becomes limited during your busy senior year.

• You can prepare materials to make the application process quicker. Depending on the scholarship, you could be required to fill out a quick application, submit an entire portfolio of work or include multiple letters of recommendation. Knowing what materials you’ll need ahead of time and preparing what you can will allow you to apply quickly when the time comes.

Resumes and essays are good examples of possible required materials that you’ll need to submit that you can also start early. While it’s recommended that you tailor these to the specifics of each scholarship, for the most part, committees will all want to hear about topics like your achievements, examples of leadership and service to your community. You can begin to craft an essay or create a list of accomplishments

using this framework now, and then use these as a foundation to build on with more specifics later.

• You can apply to scholarships available to juniors. Don’t believe the myth: Scholarships for juniors do exist. While a lot of work during your junior year might involve preparing for the scholarship application process, there are some scholarships that you can apply to now.

For example, juniors are eligible to apply for the Jane Austen Society of North America Essay Contest, which awards up to $1,000 to the winner of the annual essay contest. This scholarship is open to students in high school, and asks that those applying write an essay in response to a prompt based on​the works of writer Jane Austen.

Juniors are also eligible to enter to win the Abbot & Fenner Scholarship. By writing a 500 to 1,000-word essay on their career and life goals, students will be able to enter to win a $1,000 scholarship. The deadline for this year’s scholarship is June 10.

In short: starting the scholarship search early can allow you to find more options and stay on top of year-round deadlines.

There’s no better way to chart a course for success, than to plan ahead.

Chef’s Corner

Summertime is in full swing and LISD Chef Chardee Snoddy has a cool treat to beat the heat: Strawberry Cheesecake Chimichangas.

Ingredients: 1 (8 oz) package cream cheese 1/4 cup sour cream 1/4 cup powdered sugar 1 teaspoon lemon zest 1 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract 2 cups strawberries, fresh, sliced 1/4 cup sugar 1 tablespoon cinnamon 6” flour tortilla Vegetable oil for frying Deep fryer, or skillet Toothpicks Directions: Chardee Snoddy Mix together cinnamon and sugar in a bowl and place it to the side.

In a mixer or with a handheld mixer, whip together the cream cheese, sour cream, powdered sugar, lemon zest, and vanilla until smooth.

Fold in strawberries.

Once all mixed together, divide the mixture evenly between the tortillas placing the filling in the bottom 1/3 of the tortilla. Next, fold in the sides to meet the center, the start from the bottom rolling it up like a burrito. Pin it closed with a toothpick. Cook in the deep fryer until golden brown, or place vegetable oil in the skillet and bring it up to 350 degrees, and brown each side. Take them from the fryer and roll them in the cinnamon, sugar mix. Serve hot.

— Chardee Snoddy, a Longview High School graduate, is the Childhood Nutrition Chef for LISD.

THE LONGVIEW VOICE — Board|Continued from Front Chris Mack, board president; Dr. Mark Camp, vice president; Ted Beard, secretary; and Shan Bauer, vice secretary.

STAAR Test Results Later, the board heard a report from Latitia Wilson, Director of Research, Planning, and Accountability on the percentage of students that have met the standard in each STAAR tested area.

“Of course, we’re not where we want to be, but progress is being made,” Wilson said.

Students in grades 5 and 8 took the first round of STAAR Reading and Math Assessment on March 29-30. Students that did not meet expectations were given the opportunity to retest on May 9-10.

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June 2016

Secondary students were given End-Of-Course (EOC) assessments in March (English I and II) and May (Algebra I, Biology, and U. S. History).

“It’s important to note that the STAAR performance standards were increased from last year,” Wilson said, adding that “a more detailed report will be provided later this week after the scores for the re-testers have been received.”

“Even today, we’re continuing to get new data (from the state), so these numbers are liable to change,” she said.

Trustees meet each month in the boardroom of the LISD Education Support Center, 1301 E. Young St. The next regular meeting is tentatively scheduled for July 13.

Pre-K, Kindergarten Round-Up starts June 22

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ISD will hold its Pre-Kindergarten and Kindergarten Round Up for the 2016-2017 School Year on from 7:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. June 22 at the Student Development Center, 500 N. Third Street, Longview.

Parents should bring a photo ID, the student’s birth certificate and Social Security card; current shot records; proof of address such as an electric bill, water bill or lease. Parents will also need to bring two recent paycheck stubs for Pre-K enrollment.

For more information call LISD Director of Early Childhood Services Dr. Jacqueline Burnett (903) 803-5900.

Students honored by ‘Longview 2020’

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he Longview 2020 Forum has awarded $1,000 scholarships to young men and women who will be starting their collegiate careers in the fall.

During the awards ceremony students and their parents were treated to lunch at Papacita’s Mexican Restaurant. They received scholarship certificates and encouragement from the keynote speaker, Rogers Pope, Jr. Vice Chairman and CEO of Texas Bank & Trust.

Pope, a Longview High School graduate, went on to graduate from Baylor University and Baylor Law School. Since returning to Longview in 1994, he has been very involved in Longview’s business and community affairs.

“Through this investment we hope to encourage these young scholars to pursue their educational goals and return to our city to contribute their time, talents, and energy in this place we call home,” said Longview 2020 President Kimberly Fish. “These students are the product of the Longview, Pine Tree and Spring Hill

High Schools, and they represent some of the best and brightest students in our community.”

This year’s recipients from Longview High School are VaLynnsia Bodie, Trevor O’Connor, Chantrel Hutchings, and Krisana Yuen from Longview High School. Other recipients include James Cravey, Lucan Christian Kirchoff, Hannah Dunn, and Kiasa Young from Pine Tree High School; Kaden Wayne McLemore, Julia Alexis Lozano, Julie Hodges, and Bethany Bell from Spring Hill High School; and Jessica Pye, UT Tyler Longview University Center BSN student.

Longview 2020 Forum was organized in 1999 by a group of Longview area residents to provide a forum for discussion of issues of concern and opportunity in the greater Longview community. In addition to serving as a resource to forum participants concerning information about the community, it also strives to support the arts, education, and other appropriate community endeavors of a non-profit charitable nature.

Longview, Let’s Talk!

If you’ve got questions, comments, compliments, or suggestions for Longview ISD, we want to hear them!

Click the Let’s Talk! tab at www.lisd.org to start a conversation about whatever’s on your mind.

With this innovative, online communication solution, we're always listening 24 hours a day, 7 days a week.

Shown here are honorees Julie Hodges, Kaden Wayne McLemore, Julia Alexis Lozano, Kiasi Young, Trevor O’Connor, VaLynnsia Bodie, Chantrel Hutchings, Lucas Christian Kirchhoff, Hannah Dunn, James Cravey and Jessica Pye

THE LONGVIEW VOICE —

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Awards|Continued from Front Shai ann Davenport and Mitchell King were honored in the Art category, with samples of their work displayed throughout the venue.

Rachel Grant and Krisana Yuen received medals in Band from Director Louis Robinett. The two also performed “Suite for Four Equal Clarinets” by Stuart Smith.

James Babbitt and Faith Noe were honored in the

June 2016

Choir category, with Faith performing “Romance” by Debussy and James performing “Vittorio Mio Core”

by Carissimi.

Emily Araiza was recognized for her journalism work in the Communications category.

Alexa Blair received a medal in the Dance category. Earlier in the evening she demonstrated her talents with a live dance performance.

In the Orchestra category, Uwa Ihionkhan, Stephen Jayakar, Alyson and Robyn Roper were honored. During the ceremony the quartet performed “Palladio.”

Nathan Williams rounded out the evening’s honors by receiving the medal in Theatre. He also gave a performance of “Salieri” from the play Amadeus.

Established in 1976, the event honors the most outstanding senior students in the arts and academics.

At that first banquet, then-superintendent Dr. Henry Wheeler said the purpose is to “pay tribute to our best, our most talented, and to impress upon them that they each have a story to tell.”

Current LISD Superintendent Dr. James Wilcox said these honorees are “selected according to talent and ability” and “those making the selection of students were to keep excellence as the primary purpose.”

Lobos 7-on-7 football now underway Junior|Continued from Front Lynne Henderson, president of Junior Achievement of East Texas, said the “JA in a Day” project is one of the many programs set up to help students succeed in a global economy, gain financial literacy and workforce readiness — ultimately focusing on the importance of education.

Volunteers shared their expertise at Bramlette, Hudson PEP, JL Everhart, Johnston-McQueen, Ned E. Williams, South Ward, and Ware elementary schools, as well as Foster Middle and Longview High School.

Founded in 1981, Junior Achievement of East Texas is a youth development organization in Longview that serves students in a nine-county area.

The organization has held the program at elementary schools for several years,

but thanks to a $30,000 grant from AEP Southwestern Electric Power Co. the “It’s My Future” program has now come to middle schools.

Consisting of six lessons given during a single day that exposes students to career choices, the new middle school program ties in with House Bill 5 — which requires schools to educate students on different career paths.

The program is set up much like an average school day, with each lesson given in a rotating block. There is an activity in each of the six lessons, learning soft skills and practical lessons.

Last year more than 340 Junior Achievement volunteers taught 6,772 students in Longview, Pine Tree, Spring Hill, Hallsville, Kilgore and surrounding school districts.

Signs of summertime

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ootball season is still months away, but fans can get a glimpse at next year’s team during a variety of offseason events.

The Lobos started 7-on-7 league play at Lobo Stadium on June 6, the same day they began summer strength and conditioning workouts. The 7-on-7 league continues each Monday in June, while the summer program runs three days a week through late July.

Play starts at 6 p.m. at Lobo Stadium each week against Pine Tree, Spring Hill, Tatum, and Jefferson. The Lobos are also competing in two 7-on-7 state qualifying tournaments on June 11 in Lufkin and June 18 in Tyler.

Games are 30 minutes long, with a 10-minute intermission between contests.

JV action will be ongoing at the nearby grass fields. There is also a linemen’s challenge

Strength and conditioning workouts continue through July, leading up to Aug. 8, when official two-a-days begin, leading up to a scrimmage with Pine Tree on Aug. 19.

A week later, the Lobos travel to Lufkin for the regular season opener, followed by a trip to Marshall before returning home for the “Green Out” game against Dallas South Oak Cliff on Sept. 9.

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t’s a common sight around summertime: pairs of shoes tossed over powerlines, like these on Lily Street, just off Birdsong here in Longview. There are plenty of stories and urban legends, but the truth is nobody knows why kids do it — maybe not even the kids themselves.

THE LONGVIEW VOICE —

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June 2016

Judson inducts new honor students The Candlelight Induction Service for new members into the Judson Middle School National Junior Honor Society was held on May 17, 2016, in the Judson Middle School cafetorium.

Principal Dennis Mitchell are Kayla Smith, Kiyra Rose, Deja Thomas, Jasmyn Berlanga, Dalysiann Ingram, Zarea Collins, Chase Caviness, Adrian Henderson, James Tucker, Jacob Still, Coy Sanders, and Timothy Nardi. Not pictured is Nicholas Johnson

Valynnsia Bodie wins Mayor Mack Scholarship

Haleigh Hamm, Kimberly Delgado, Stephanie Rodriguez, Javion Magee, Madison Stewart, Jennifer Capella, Domonique Bowie, Pricila Cardona, Alexis Gillo, Tarah Lister, Isabella Castillo, Emily Tran, Cameron Roberts, Carmon Williams, Shueilla Soto, Kate Pimentel, Daisy Nieto, Tatum Fenton, Madeline Bates, Katelyn Taylor, Samantha Neely, Joshua Lawson, Wythe Roberts, Sebastian Dart Soto, Ian McCarty, Jonathan Tutt, Adriunna Hawkins, Lyzvette Martinez, Melanie Martinez, Christian Benitez, Christian Aviles Gutierrez, and David Parks.

Not pictured is David Graham

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ayor Andy Mack announced the winners of his inaugural scholarship during the May 25 City Council meeting, among them was Longview High School graduate Valynnsia Bodie.

“As a single mother, working hard to graduate high school and care for her daughter, Valynnsia faces challenges that many young people do not face,” said Mayor Mack. “And to approach them while thinking of the future generation, well, it is just plain amazing. I was inspired.”

These funds are coming out of the Mayor’s annual stipend. Rather than take a salary, the mayor’s stipend will be used to invest in students’ futures.

Bodie was one of four graduating seniors from Longview, Pine Tree, Spring Hill, or Hallsville high schools. Other winners include Christopher Brown from Pine Tree, Jack Barron from Hallsville, and Mabry Nichols from Spring Hill.

The application includes a one-page essay on how you desire to make an impact on improving Longview.

Here is Valynnsia’s winning essay: My mother has always been the leading influence in my life, and with the assistance of her support and example, I have finally pieced together my life’s goals and developed a strong penchant for helping others.

Although I have volunteered and participated in many community-centered activities, my most memorable experience involved a shy, little girl at the Boys and Girls Club. During the two months I volunteered at the organization, I became well acquainted with the children in grades fourth and fifth. However, I often noticed a little girl who isolated herself from the others, and she sat engaged in different games or craft activities.One day, I approached her, and she immediately withdrew from me, revealing her introverted personality. I immediately became drawn to her because I had a similar personality in my childhood.

In Memoriam: Ronald Charles “Ron” Horaney Longview ISD offers our most sincere condolences to the family and friends of this former Longview Lobo.

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on Horaney, 54, beloved husband, son, father, uncle, cousin, nephew and friend died tragically on Monday, May 30, 2016. Funeral services were June 4, 2016 at Trinity Episcopal Church, with Rev. Kevin Wittmayer, the Rev. Jonathan Jehorek and the Rev. Janeen Laurinec officiating. Entombment followed at Rosewood Park Mausoleum under direction of Rader Funeral Home. A visitation and reception was held in the Fellowship Hall of Trinity Church prior to the

service.

Ron was born on January 30, 1962 in Longview to Albert and Betty Horaney where he resided until his untimely death. He graduated from Longview High School in 1980 and later earned an associate degree from Kilgore College. Ron also studied overseas at the University of Jordan in Aman. He loved to travel as was evident by his visits to twenty-four countries, where he made many friends. Ron loved people, never met a stranger, and enjoyed doing things to help others while never wanting or expecting recognition for his good deeds or service.

On January 6, 1996, Ron married Faezeh Pour Mogahdam at Trinity Episcopal Church and they were blessed with five wonderful children to whom he was very devoted and with whom he enjoyed playing golf and being together for other family gatherings and outings. Faezeh was a loyal supporter of all Ron’s endeavors. His family and his Lebanese heritage were very dear to him, and he always instilled the importance of both to his children.

Ron was owner of Horaney’s Feed and Seed, and Agri-

culture business in Marshall and co-owner of Horaney’s Longview. He was extremely proud of Horaney’s being the recipient of the Small Business of the Year award from the Baylor University Hankamer School of Business. He was a 32nd Degree Mason in the Longview Masonic Lodge #404, a Shriner, a member of the Harvest Festival Board and a member of Trinity Episcopal Church. He and his family were longtime supporters of the Harvest Festival, where his mother, Betty, established a scholarship in memory of his father, Albert. He loved Longview and was proud to be a citizen, one respected and loved by so many friends, customers, and business associates.

Ron was preceded in death by his father, Albert Horaney, his grandparents, Harry and Lorraine Horaney, and Charley and Asma Barkett; his uncles, Shibley Horaney, Richard Horaney and Sam Barkett; aunts, Alice Barkett Thomas, Edna Barkett Gani, Jeanette Barkett, and his sister-in-law, Genny Horaney.

He is survived by his wife, Faezeh; his mother, Betty; his brother, Albert “Al” of Tyler; his children, Betty Jeanette, Ronald Albert, Alia Michelle, Jonathan Charles and Layla. He is also survived by his mother-in-law, Golestan Pour; brothers-in-law, Parsa and Mohammed Pour; father-in-law, Reza Pour all of Sweden; sister-in-law, Fahimeh Asperand, and an aunt, Pyre Smith and husband, Butch of Tatum.

Other loving family members who survive Ron are his uncle, Johnny Barkett and wife Mary Lou of Marshall; aunt, Mary Lois Fadal and Husband, Dr. Ronald O. of Waco; cousins, Michael Horaney of Phoenix; Dr. Philip Thomas of Dallas; Dr. Bradford Thomas and wife, Gina of Galveston; Gregory Gani and wife, Kathy of Marshall; Dr. Ronald N. Fadal and wife, Dr. Jennifer of Longview; Robin Scott Fadal and wife, Rita of Spring; and nephew, Alexander Horaney of Tyler. Many other cousins, great nieces and nephews also survive Ron. Pallbearers who are honored to serve are Dan Fiscus, Dr. John Ross, Robin Fadal, Dr. Ronald Fadal, Dr. Phillip Thomas, Jonathan Williams, Eric Joseph, Dr. Ben Mack, Daryl Atkinson and Lindsey Terry.

Honorary Pallbearers are Gregory Gani, Dr. Bradford Thomas, Trip Tidwell, Jon Draper, Larry Iltis, Mark Atkinson and Bruce Bridges.

Our relationship initially began with simple conversation which soon progressed to her gifting me hand drawn pictures. With time, I was able to help her talk to the other children at the Boys and Girls Club, which was a sign of social development. I knew I had made a difference in a child’s life, and it made me feel impactful. Although it was only one child, maybe one day, she could do the same for another. I simply enjoyed the idea that I was able to make a positive difference in someone’s life, but most importantly, I was becoming a role model for my daughter and someone for my mother to be proud of.Therefore, I decided that, once I have established a career, I will return to Longview and open a free, recreational center on the south side of Longview to keep children occupied and off the streets. I believe that by positively impacting their lives and giving them a chance at opportunity, I can deter them from the wrong path sooner rather than later.

I strongly feel that my plan will make a difference in the Longview community considering the immense amount of crime in the area. In fact, educating youth is a major factor, and education itself, truly, is a luxury that some people take for granted.However, for me, it holds value because I’ve decided to use it as my method to defeat all the odds placed against me as well as others who share my story.

In addition, being a single parent only makes education more desirable; it holds much more significance and supplies me with more determination now that I have a child. An education could benefit us in the long run by providing me with a multitude of opportunity. By acquiring more knowledge in college, I may be capable of teaching A’Lynnsia and other children how important education is.

Along the way, my college experiences will serve as life lessons for them as well.

Longview ISD joins the CIty of Longview and Mayor Andy Mack in congratulating Valynnsia on this award, and wishing her success as she continues to help make Longview a better place.

J.L. Everhart teacher treats students to formal dinner

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ressed in their best attire, a few J.L. Everhart Elementary students recently experienced a formal dinner.

Fourth-grade teacher Carol Pruitt treated her students to a formal dinner May 24 at The Summit Club in Longview.

Pruitt purchases the dinner for her students each year.

“They deserve it,” Pruitt said. “These students have worked so hard and had such a great year but also to introduce the students to etiquette in a formal dinner setting.”

The dinner began with Pruitt welcoming students and playing classical music on a portable CD player.

Students individually got up and told jokes via a microphone.

The students wore formal attire for the event and could be heard saying that the experience was “just like on TV.”

THE LONGVIEW VOICE —

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June 2016

Annual NAACP gala set for July 15

he Longview branch of the National Association for the Advancement of Colored People will hold its Scholarship and Image Awards Gala from 7 p.m. July 15 at The Summit Club, 3700 Judson Rd. Featuring guest speaker Sarah Collins Rudolph, a survivor of the tragic 1963 16th Street Baptist Church Bombing, the theme for the gala is: “Through the struggle, we rise!”

Longview NAACP President Branden Johnson said the organization is committed to helping those impacted by economic, demographic and educational disparity.

“This event raises funds to help our local young people secure their dreams of higher education and, in doing so,

strengthens our own future,” he said. “We also take this time to recognize individuals who are making a difference and doing great things in our community.”

For over a century, the NAACP has fought to level the playing field for all people, Johnson said.

“This organization has crusaded, often in the face of violence, to address inequality, indifference, and injustice,” he said. “With over 425,000 members nationwide, we’ve made tremendous progress on important issues but there is much more work to be done.”

Johnson said he is excited to host one of the survivors of the 16th Street Baptist Church bombing in 1963.

Four young African-American girls were killed in

Birmingham, Alabama. Twenty-two other people were injured in the terrorist attack, which was carried out by four members of the Ku Klux Klan.

“Just 12 when the church was attacked, Collins-Rudolph was hit with shards of glass, lost an eye and hospitalized for months,” he said. “She continues to deal with posttraumatic stress syndrome and life-changing injuries.”

Tickets are $45 for adults and $25 for youth. Formal attire is requested.

For more information please call (430) 558-8142 or visit www.longviewnaacp.com.

Adams, Cohn, and Manns honored as Distinguished Alumni

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ongview Independent School District honored three former students May 13 during the annual Distinguished Alumni ceremony and luncheon.

Martin R. Adams, Dr. Shannon Marie Mitchell Cohn, and Gatha Jimerson Manns all said they were humbled to be chosen and are thankful for their time at Longview ISD. “Wherever I’ve gone and whatever I’ve done, the lessons I learned from the teachers and students during my time in Longview have remained, even to this very day,” said Adams.

“Once I moved on to college, I realized the education I had received at Longview was as good if not superior to the best private schools,” said Manns. “In coming back, touring the campus and visiting with the students, I see that LISD has become even better.”

Cohn said for all the great moments and experiences, it has been the support of her family, friends, and entire LISD community that have sustained her.

“I am grateful to have grown up around such wonderful people and in such a great place,” she said.

Honorees are nominated at-large and chosen by a committee of previous honorees, volunteer Distinguished Alumni Committee members, and the district’s Community Relations office. Distinguished alumni typically have excelled professionally, in addition to serving the communities in which they live.

Dr. James Wilcox said the accomplishments of the alumni are both a source of pride as well as a challenge to future Lobos.

“Looking at what former LISD students have done in the world should show our students than anything is possible for them,” he said. “They too can continue to excel once they leave the halls of Longview High School, and join their fellow alumni in making the world a better place.”

Martin R. Adams Adams, a 1953 graduate of Longview High School, continued his education at Texas A&M, where he graduated with honors in chemical engineering and was a Distinguished Military Graduate in the Corps of Cadets, and then attended the University of Colorado where he earned a Master of Science in Chemical Engineering.

Commissioned a Second Lieutenant in the Air Force, Adams served from 1958 – 1962 at the Wright Air Development Center in Dayton, Ohio, where he conducted research on aeronautical systems and materials.

Upon completion of his service obligation, Adams was employed by Exxon Corporation, then called Humble Oil and Refining Co., as a business and policy analyst at Corporate Headquarters. With Exxon, Adams gained

extensive analytical and management expertise.

These skills served him well in his later career as an entrepreneur and business builder. Adams describes this later work as being like a “corporate midwife,” giving birth to new businesses and reviving faltering ones. His complete career activities are described in his autobiography, “The Chronicles of Martin,” which was published in 2014.

Much of Adams career has involved the development of complex mathematical models of the energy marketplace and other large systems. Serving as an assistant secretary of the U. S. Department of Energy, Adams work during the oil crisis years in the 1970s and 1980s helped to solve our nation’s energy problems. His work led to innovations in oil and gas production technology, particularly in shale formations. Thus did Adams play a significant role in boosting production of American hydrocarbons now and in the future.

Martin and his wife, Margery, live in the mountains of Stowe, Vermont where they have been avid skiers and outdoorsmen for many years. Adams is the son of former Longview Chief of Police Albert Adams and his wife, Leta Adams.

Adams was nominated by lifelong friend, Dr. Frank Jackson. Adams said that he was “blown away” that someone who’s known him so long, “even remotely believes that I am “Distinguished.” Adams continued, “I just pray that today’s kids in LISD are getting the exposure to outstanding teachers like Frank Jackson and I had. LISD gave us and others like us a tremendous start in life.”

Dr. Shannon Marie Mitchell Cohn Cohn, valedictorian of the 2001 Longview High School class, continued her education at the University of Texas where in 2005 she earned a bachelor’s degree summa cum laude in chemical engineering, and her medical degree cum laude in 2009 from the Baylor College of Medicine.

Beginning her career in 2009 as a resident at Texas Southwestern Medical Center, in 2012 Cohn began working in hematology/oncology at the hospital. Since last year she has been a pediatric oncologist/researcher at Children’s Blood and Cancer Center in Austin.

Though still a young professional, Cohn has received numerous honors and has given various lectures in addition to being published in medical journals. She has also lent her medical expertise as a volunteer doctor for “Camp Esperanza” treating child cancer patients.

Daughter of Marshall and Leisa Mitchell of Longview, she is married to Stephen and the couple resides in Austin. Cohn was nominated by former classmate Emily Mackey Melton Harris, who praised her friend’s profound modesty “about her gift of healing.”

“Certainly other doctors could have given the same treatments ... but Shannon also

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builds personal relationships with families and her young patients,” she said. “She talks to them at any hour of the day or night, and does things like wearing silly masks with them at Halloween. I have personally witnessed her compassion with families who need to be consoled.”

Harris said she remembered watching in 2002 when her own father was named a Distinguished Alumni, and thought Cohn would someday be on the list.

“Even though we were still young, I knew her heart,” she said. “I knew her continued drive for success and helping others would someday blossom into the remarkable woman and friend she is today.”

Gatha Jimerson Manns Manns, a 1984 Longview High School graduate, earned an athletic scholarship to Baylor University where she received her bachelor’s degree in 1988, followed by a Juris Doctorate from the college’s law school in 1993. Joining the U.S Navy’s Judge Advocate General’s Corps during her second year of law school, Manns later received her master’s degree in International Environmental Law from George Washington University.

“Joining the U.S. Navy’s JAG Corps was an important decision for me personally and professionally,” Manns said.

“It was the realization of my personal sense of obligation to serve my country, in the capacity of my chosen profession.”

Manns said tours of duty in the Mediterranean Sea and Persian Gulf heightened her interest in the study of both international and environmental law.

“As the world population increases, more national and international discussions will take place concerning our collective need to protect the environment from pollutants that threaten to shorten the human lifespan and the quality of our lives on this planet,” she said. “A sound understanding of environmental law is necessary to participate in critical discussions, and to aid the debate on viable worldwide solutions.”

Nominated by Dianne Miller of Longview, Manns now serves in the Office of the Chief Prosecutor for the U.S. Department of Defense. Manns is working on the prosecution of enemy combatants at Guantanamo Bay, Cuba.

Manns said that, as a JAG office, she often has “a frontrow seat to the inner workings of policy.”

“I have observed and had numerous discussions with commanders in a wartime environment,” she said. “I have seen, on a small scale, how significant policy-level decisions are made.”

A two-time Academic All-American in track and field as well as All-East Texas in basketball during her high school years, Manns continued to receive accolades during her collegiate years and professional career — including a commendation by the Secretary of the Navy for her work during the investigation of a 2013 shooting at the Washington Naval Yard, in addition to numerous military honors and citations.

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June 2016

School districts keeping an eye on ‘vouchers’

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LGIN, Texas — Lieutenant Governor Dan Patrick has made it clear that his tax-credit scholarship program will be a top priority for him for the 2017 legislative session, and his proposed voucher system could impact funding for the Elgin Independent School District.

The program assigns a dollar value to each student’s education, and the money could be used to pay for the student’s education be it public, private or homeschool.

Taking those dollars that are currently allocated to public schools, and making them available to be allocated privately could impact an already financially-strained public school system.

“Rather than calling it a ‘voucher,’ he refers to it as a ‘taxcredit scholarship.’ Regardless of what you call it, it’s the same thing – a diversion of public dollars to be used for private purposes – clearly a violation of our state constitution,” said Elgin ISD superintendent Jodi Duron. “If a tax-credit

bill were to pass, it would not only negatively impact EISD but all public schools in Texas. Essentially, diverting public dollars for private purposes would limit the dollars available for public education. And considering that Texas already woefully underfunds our education system, this would create even a greater gap, both equitably and adequately, in funding schools in Texas.”

Patrick pushed for the school choice program during the last legislative session, but it eventually died in the House.

He made it clear that he will continue his fight, as he spoke at an education policy panel in January, and suggested that the new legislation may mimic policy that has been implemented in the state of Nevada.

“We will pass this bill in session. It will be a better bill next time, incorporating some of the things Nevada has done,” said Patrick at the Texas Public Policy Foundation’s Policy Orientation.

Students taking ‘AP’ classes doubles in decade

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USTIN — Commissioner of Education Mike Morath announced in April that the number of Texas graduates taking at least one Advanced Placement Program (AP) exam during high school has more than doubled over the past decade, according to College Board’s AP Cohort Data Report for the Class of 2015.

In addition, the percentage of Texas students taking at least one AP exam in high school continues to outpace the national average.

According to Class of 2015 figures from the College Board, Texas also continued its successful pace in achieving equitable participation for low-income students.

Half (50.5 percent) of the AP examinees in the Class of 2015 were eligible for free or reduced-price lunch. Of those students, 44.6 percent achieved a score of 3 or higher – much higher than the national average (24.2 percent) and higher than any other state.

“It’s not only important that we continue to see more students taking AP exams in the years ahead, we should also maintain an expectation for high levels of success,” said Commissioner Morath.

The College Board states that a score of 3 or higher on an AP Exam demonstrates that a student is capable of doing the work of an introductory-level course in a particular subject in college. Just over 20 percent of Texas students (20.8 percent) in the Class of 2015 scored a 3 or higher on an AP exam during high school, which was below the national average (22.4 percent).

Research shows that students who succeed in rigorous coursework, such as that offered by AP, are developing college-level knowledge and skills while still in high school. These students are more likely than their peers to earn college degrees on time, which gives them an opportunity to save significant amounts of money.

Kilgore College hosting summer camps

Kilgore College offering swimming lessons in June

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ILGORE — The Kilgore College Continuing Education Department will offer swim lessons for all ability levels beginning in June.

Each student will be surveyed for level of ability and the instructor may regroup the students after in-the-water assessments.

There is also a new preschool class for

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There are also several enrichment courses available for children as well as swimming lessons.

For more information on the camps visit: www.kilgore.edu/camps.

ages 3-5 that requires a parent in the pool with the child.

Classes will be held at the pool in the Parks Fitness Center on the Kilgore campus.

Register at the Bert E. Woodruff Adult Education Center, 220 North Henderson Blvd., or contact Eva McClellan at (903) 988-7426 or emcclellan@kilgore.edu.

Chronic school absences on the rise nationwide

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ILGORE — Kilgore College will host several summer camps for youth beginning in June.

Camps include basketball, football, softball, music, acting, twirling and dance.

But what Nevada has done is already being challenged in the courts. One of the key points of opposition is the use of public money being used for private interests, and whether that is in violation of Nevada’s state constitution. It may face the same constitutional question here in Texas, in addition to issues that stretch beyond funding.

“Lt. Gov. Patrick has indicated his interest in creating a taxcredit bill similar to what Nevada has done where state money is given directly to parents who want to send their students to private school or homeschool them. The danger of this type of program is that there would be no accountability for how those dollars would be spent. There would also be no system of accountability for school performance, curriculum, student achievement, and adherence to statewide academic standards. That should concern all of us,” said Duron.

ASHINGTON — The government is out with discouraging new figures on how many students are habitually missing school — and an analysis by the Associated Press finds the problem is particularly acute in Washington, D.C., where nearly a third of students in the nation’s capital were absent 15 days or more in a single school year.

Washington state and Alaska weren’t that far behind, with absentee rates hovering around a quarter of students with that level of absences.

Florida had the lowest rate of absences: 4.5 percent of public school students in the state were chronically missing school in the 2013-2014 school year.

The national average was 13 percent, more than 6.5 million students, a number that Bob Balfanz, a research professor at Johns Hopkins University and director of the Everyone Graduates Center, called disturbing.

“If you’re not there, you don’t learn, and then you fall behind. You don’t pass your classes. You don’t get the credits in high school and that’s what leads to dropping out,” Balfanz said in an interview.

The June 7 report marked the first release of chronic absentee figures from the department.

According to AP’s analysis, girls were just as likely as boys to habitually miss school. Nearly 22 percent of all American Indian students were reported as regularly absent, followed by Native Hawaiians at 21 percent and black students at 17 percent. Hispanic and white students were close to the national average of 13 percent.

Of the 100 largest school districts by enrollment, the Detroit City School District had the highest rate of chronic absenteeism. Nearly 58 percent of students were chronically absent in the 2013-2014 school year.

Students are regularly missing school for lots of reasons, Balfanz says. Many are poor and could be staying home to care for a sibling or helping with elder

care. Others are avoiding school because they’re being bullied or they worry it’s not safe. And then, there are some students who simply skip school.

Schools should be creating welcoming environments to make students feel wanted each day, Balfanz says. They also need to build relationships with the kids who are regularly absent to figure out what’s keeping them away, he said.

As part of its Civil Rights Data Collection, the department surveyed all public schools in the country, covering over 95,000 schools and 50 million students. Roughly one in seven of all K-12 public schools nationwide reported having not a single chronically absent student that year.

Chronic absenteeism is one of several topics covered in the data collection. It also looked at school discipline and highrigor course offerings.

Other figures from the report: — Thirty-three percent of high schools with substantial black and Latino enrollment offered calculus. That compares to 56 percent of high schools with low numbers of black and Latino children that offered calculus. Similar gaps were seen for physics, chemistry and Algebra II. — Overall, across the country, 2.8 million K-12 students received one or more out-of-school suspensions - a nearly 20 percent drop from the number reported two years ago.

— Black children represent 19 percent of preschoolers, yet they account for 47 percent of preschool kids getting suspended.

— Black preschool children are 3.6 times as likely to get one or more out-of-school suspensions as their white counterparts.

— Nationwide, almost half of high schools offered classes in calculus, and more than three-quarters offered Algebra II. — White students make up 41 percent of preschoolers, and 28 percent of preschool kids with suspensions.

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June 2016

Carolyn Northcutt Breast Cancer Survivor

The team at Longview Regional helped Carolyn survive, and thrive.

When Carolyn found a lump in her breast, her doctor recommended a 3D mammogram at Longview Regional Medical Center. The lump turned out to be a form of cancer that required surgery, chemotherapy and radiation. “I had a whole team of people working together to provide care, answer every question, and help my life go on as normally as possible,” said Carolyn. “They even scheduled my treatments around trips to see my grandchildren. The healthcare system at Longview Regional is second to none.”

Contact the Center for Breast Care of Longview Regional Medical Center at 903-232-8596 for information or to schedule your 3D mammogram.

Appointments are on a first-come, first-served basis. A physician order is not required, but the patient must provide a physician’s name when an appointment is made. If the person does not have a physician/provider, a list will be provided for the patient’s selection. All mammogram reports will be sent to the physician/provider and follow-ups are the responsibility of the patient.

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