Volume VIII, Issue 3 (March 1, 2023)

“It always seems impossible until it’s done.” ― Nelson Mandela

THE ongview SENIOR CELEBRATION

Longview High School seniors convened for an annual celebration honoring their hard work and accomplishments. As the school year winds down, these students are preparing for graduation and the next chapter in their lives.

Lobo Nation applauds the dedication demonstrated by these seniors throughout their high school careers and wishes them the best as they move forward. We are confident that they will achieve great things and make our community proud.

Go to Page 14 for more photos of our wonderful seniors and their night of celebration.

LOOKING BACK

Students celebrate history and culture

Throughout February, campuses throughout Longview ISD did their part to learn and pay tribute during Black History Month.

Here are a some of the activities that campuses took part in:

History|Continued to page 13

Sharing the good news about Longview Independent School District

Lobo seniors have achieved a notable accomplishment in the automotive world.

Exceptional coaching leads to Lobo basketball making it to playoff runs.

Boys and girls soccer have started off the season on the right foot.

may

OPINION Exceptional coaching leads to playoff runs

By Matthew Prosser

Longview High School basketball is back!

Both the Lobos and Lady Lobos finished as Class 5A Area finalists with the Lobos achieving their best record in several years at 26-8, and the Lady Lobos achieving their best record and deepest playoff run since 2015 at 24-11.

What is the secret behind their success? It is nothing short of hard work, dedication, and passion from our student-athletes, their families, friends, boosters, and community supporters.

From the pre-season, through the season, and now looking ahead to the off-season, the Lobos and Lady Lobos have demonstrated an unwavering commitment to their craft.

This commitment has been underpinned by the exceptional coaching of Sam Weaver and Meagan Leggett, both in their first season coaching at Longview.

Weaver, with over 40 years of coaching experience, has had a remarkable career as both

a high school and college coach. He joined Longview in June last summer and has since led the Lobos to their best record in several years.

Leggett, a former Longview Lady Lobo basketball standout who returned to her roots, came to Longview last summer after stints at Wiley College, Panola College, and Jefferson High. With an intense and dynamic approach, Leggett has reversed the fortunes of her alma mater in short order.

The achievements of these two teams are a testament to the strong culture of athletic excellence at Longview High School. The Lobos and Lady Lobos have consistently shown that they are more than just a team – they are a family that works tirelessly to achieve their goals. It is this sense of camaraderie that has been the backbone of their success.

“Our basketball teams made us proud this season, not just with their success on the court,

but with their character, work ethic, and dedication,” said LHS Athletic Director John King. “They embody the spirit of Lobo Athletics and serve as role models for our entire community.”

But it is not just about the players and coaches – the families, friends, boosters, and community supporters have played a crucial role in the success of the Lobos and Lady Lobos. They have been the driving force behind the teams, offering unwavering support and encouragement to the players and coaches.

It’s also important to recognize the invaluable contributions of Longview Gameday, our district partners who have worked tirelessly to livestream Longview games and promote the achievements of our athletes and program.

Longview Gameday has provided fans and supporters with a front-row seat to the thrilling action on the court and continues to help elevate

the visibility and reputation of our program. We extend our heartfelt appreciation to Keaton, Frank, Morgan, and the entire Gameday team for their fervor and flair in supporting Lobo Athletics.

As the season comes to a close, the Lobos and Lady Lobos can take pride in their achievements, but they are not resting on their laurels. They know that the off-season is just as important as the season, and they are already looking ahead to next year with renewed vigor and determination.

Lobo basketball had an outstanding season, achieving their best records in several years and making deep playoff runs. The hard work, dedication, and passion of the student-athletes, their families, friends, boosters, and community supporters have been the driving force behind their success.

The future looks bright, and all I can say is LOBO UP.

Athletic program great source of pride for Lobo Nation

By Dustin Taylor

I’m not a big “sports guy,” but I am a proud Longview graduate and as such I’m proud to see our entire athletic program doing so well across the board. The success of the teams is a testament to the hard work and dedication of the student-athletes, the support of their families, the guidance of the coaches and trainers, the contributions of community volunteers, and the support of local sponsors.

Lobo baseball has started the season with a record of 5-1 and (as of this writing) is set to participate in the Border Battle Classic in Texarkana. The Lady Lobo softball team has also been successful this season, with a record of 4-2-1, and they’re gearing up for the Rose City Classic in Tyler.

Lobo soccer team has been

dominating the field with a recent 6-0 victory over Hallsville, improving their overall record to 14-5-0 (8-20) on the season. The Lady Lobo soccer team also secured a significant 1-0 victory over Hallsville, improving their record to 8-9-2 (72-1) and putting them in contention for a playoff berth.

The success of the Longview athletic program extends beyond the field and onto the court. Every team of the socalled “big eight” sports (football, volleyball, boys/girls basketball, and boys/girls soccer) has made the post-season this year. The perennial powerhouse Lobo football team was a state semifinalist. Lady Lobo volleyball was a bi-district finalist and had their first playoff

appearance in seven years. Lobo tennis team, fresh off a Regionals appearance in the fall, has been rolling in the spring as well. The always competitive Lobo Track & Field has also started extremely well. And off course, as my colleague Matthew mentions in his column, both boys and girls hoop squads had big seasons as well.

Building a successful athletic program requires the efforts of a dedicated and talented group of individuals working together towards a common goal. Longview High School is fortunate to have such a team of coaches, trainers, sports medicine students, and volunteers who contribute behind the scenes to create an environment where student-athletes can thrive.

The leadership of Athletic Director John King has been instrumental in fostering a culture of excellence, and the coaches and trainers have done an outstanding job of helping athletes reach their full potential both on and off the field. This collective effort has been crucial to the success of the Longview High School athletic program.

These achievements demonstrate the high caliber of student-athletes at Longview High School, the dedication of the coaches and trainers, and the support of the community.

“Exciting times” lie ahead for the Longview athletic program, as they continue to build on their successes and set their sights on even greater accomplishments.

GO LOBOS!

— An award-winning journalist and 2007 graduate of LHS, Dustin Taylor is the Managing Editor for The Longview Voice.

— An award-winning journalist and photographer, Matthew Prosser is Communications Director for Longview Independent School District.

TAYLOR

INCASE U MISSED T I YO

softball signups open

Softball sign ups have started and continue until March 17. Blastball (ages 3-4) registration fee is $60. All other age groups (ages 5-14) registration fee is $110. Uniform jerseys will be provided. The following equipment is required: Batting helmet, bat, batting gloves, & fielder’s protective mask. The season will start late March or early April. Season ends in June. Register online at longviewtxgirlsoftball.com

lifeguard certification

ATTN Swim families! Lifeguard Instructor, Lifeguard, Junior Lifeguard, and Water Safety Instructor courses are scheduled at the LOBO Aquatic Center for this Spring. Classes start as early as April so sign up today! For questions, please contact Daniel Gonzalez at dgonzalez@ LISD.org

Spring Break Sports Camp

Each year the Longview ISD Foundation, Inc. holds a raffle in conjunction with its Lamplighter Awards banquet.

Tickets are one (1) for $5.00 or three (3) for $10.00. When buying a ticket, one can check the item he or she hopes to win, spreading tickets among the items or putting all tickets on one item. The Foundation will hold four separate drawings on Thursday, April 13, 2023, at 6:30 PM at the 23rd annual Lamplighter Awards banquet at Pinecrest Country Club. Winners need not be present to win.

Information about the raffle and pictures of the items are also on the Foundation’s website at lisdfoundation. org.

To purchase raffle tickets, contact Kay Ray, Foundation director, at 903-452-7015 or gray@LISD.org or purchase from any Foundation board member.

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Did we miss your district news?

Did we miss district campus or organization news? Send us the pertinent information to ask@LISD.org and we’ll include it in our next issue!

julie woods & associates real estate firm

Board approves elevator repairs

Structural upgrades and building improvements to district facilities were just some of the agenda items approved by the Longview ISD Board of Trustees during their regular meeting Monday, February 13.

An elevator located near the library at Longview High School requires extensive repairs and updates. Mr. Mike Gipson, LISD Maintenance Supervisor, explained that the elevator is from the original construction of the high school back in 1976.

“There have been instances where staff and students have become briefly stuck in the elevator,” he said. “In order to ensure safety while on campus, we felt the need to repair and replace the elevator.”

Dr. Wayne Guidry, Assistant Superintendent for Finance, said the district accepted a bid proposal of $103,000 from Arlington-based Oracle EMR Ele-

vator.

“With the approval of the contract, the repairs for the elevator should begin sometime this summer,” he said. “It will include a variety of replacement parts such as a new car operating panel,

new door operator, and new signal fixtures.”

Mr. Gipson added that “the project is expected to take between 6-8 weeks to complete.”

REPAIRS

Trustees also approved a bid of $915,020 from Longviewbased Curtis-McKinley Roofing & Sheet Metal to repair damages to the district warehouse at 1000 Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. Blvd.

Lobos seniors earn rare achievement

Longview High School seniors Aleksandr Ortega and Cayden Tipton have achieved a notable accomplishment by earning all 10 of their Automotive Service Excellence (ASE) certifications.

ASE certification is a widely recognized standard of competence in the automotive industry. It is awarded to individuals who pass a series of exams demonstrating their proficiency in specific areas of automotive service and repair. The certification is voluntary, but highly regarded by employers and industry professionals alike.

Earning ASE certification can be a valuable asset for students like Ortega and Tipton who plan to pursue careers in the automotive industry after high school. It demonstrates to potential employers that they

LONGVIEW HIGH SCHOOL LONGVIEW ISD

have a strong foundation of knowledge and skills in their field, and can help them stand out in a competitive job market.

Wonderful job, gentlemen!

Initial damages were sustained in the hailstorm on Jan. 19, 2022.

Dr. Guidry told board members that the Texas Association of School Boards (TASB) Risk Management Fund has facilitated the process for the installation of a new roof.

“The administration feels it is in the best interest of the district to accept the proposal, and TASB Risk Management has agreed to fund this proposal,” he added.

NEW AIR FILTERS

Board members later approved using $163,000 in grant funds for the purchase of MERV 13 Air Filters for district campuses.

Dr. Guidry told trustees that in 2022 the district received a Covid-19 health grant in the amount of $319,855 and “improving indoor air quality is one

Board|Continued to page 16

GUIDRY

CHARTERS

Jose Sanchez makes the most of technology

Meet Jose Sanchez, a 5th Grade

Bilingual English/Language Arts teacher at Ware East Texas Montessori Academy. Since language is a key component of the IB Programme, as a bilingual teacher, Mr. Sanchez’s class is by its nature international.

He says, “I have students from Honduras, I have students from El Salvador, I have students from Puerto Rico, and I have students from Mexico; some may have been born here, but their families were from Mexico.” When it comes to cultural interaction, “you see that everyday in the classroom. Students become aware of other cultures’ traditions and back-

grounds” as they interact.

“Myself, I’m from Puerto Rico and my students, when they see me, they automatically assume I’m African American, maybe born and raised in Texas,” he adds. “And when I speak Spanish to them, it blows their minds.” His goal in his class is to create “socially aware students who can understand the world around them and make it

a better place.”

He begins each school week on Monday by showing students a video from a website called Flocabulary, which contains “a research-based library of songs, videos and activities for K-12 online learning across the curriculum.” (www.flocabulary.com). These lively raps, jazz numbers, and hip/ hop videos done by American

students focus on a world event “that happened across the map” during the previous week. For example, recently Mr. Sanchez showed a video made by middle school students in Indiana about President Biden’s State of the Union Address given before the Congress. Students are “eager to come into school on Monday and see what has happened in the world,” says Mr. Sanchez.

Making the most of technology to enhance his students’ learning, he also uses several other websites and online platforms. Students spend Tuesdays and Thursdays cycling through six centers, the first of which is called Free Language Choice and uses the Duolingo interactive platform, a “gamified language learning app.” (duolingo. com) In the second center called Writable, students have recently

ETAA|Continued to page 12

Melissa Doom embodies IB Learner Profile traits

Melissa Doom is a 2nd Grade teacher at Hudson PEP Elementary School. She and her fellow 2nd grade teachers have designed units which are transdisciplinary, and thus integrate each subject area—reading, math, science, and social studies.

“We have tried to create these worldly units that really speak to the foundational principles of IB, but also keeping on a 2nd grade level,” she says.

During this 5th Six Weeks, students have begun to explore

the IB transdisciplinary theme of “Where We Are in Place and Time.” Not only are they reading biographies of famous Americans, but also learning how to interpret graphs and timelines showing when each great American lived. In Feb-

ruary since it is Black History Month, they have focused on biographies of African Americans, researching, creating drawings, and building a book as they go.

At the end of this unit in April, as is traditional at Hud-

PEP ELEMENTARY LONGVIEW ISD

son PEP for 2nd Graders, students will participate in a wax museum project in which each will portray a famous American. One evening, students will come dressed as Babe Ruth, Rosa Parks, Abraham Lincoln, and Martin Luther King, to name a few, and recite their stories to anyone who presses the “button” on their hand.

In December, students learned about holidays around the world by visiting themed classrooms of different winter holidays celebrated in several countries. “All the kids travel around to the classrooms to learn about peoples’ cultures,” maybe hearing a song, making a craft, taking a virtual tour,

TCIS|Continued to page 13

Lobo FFA takes research trip to Ellis Home and Garden

The Lobo FFA Nursery/ Landscape Judging team had a great time at Ellis Home and Pottery as they got some practice in!

SANCHEZ

DOOM

LoboView wins State, festival honors

Congratulations to our LoboView Film Club on their incredible film short, Peach Lane! It won best Narrative at State competition and won big at the Carthage Mainstreet Film Festival as well! Check it out here: youtu.be/9dYfQS5vBLY

Peach Lane is a stylish film noir throwback to the hardboiled detectives of yesteryear. It was written and Directed

By Karsyn Doxey. This is the fourth year in a row that Longview High School was represented at the UIL State competition and the first time they have had two films achieve top six in the state.

Written and Directed –

Karsyn Doxey

Executive Producers – Michael Palmer, Pam Mercer-McWilliams, & James

Brewer

Produced by – Joshua

LONGVIEW HIGH SCHOOL LONGVIEW ISD

Graves

AC - Jesse Chapparo & Page Rucker

Musical Score - Anna Purdum

Sound - Kaylee Read, Jesse Chapparo, Jazmine Brown, Zayda Jacobo, & Adriana Ashley

Set Design - Ke’Ambria Carter

Production Assistant - Silas Loeffler, Madison Davidson

Cast: Dina Zeid, Brayden

Revis, Carolyn Purdum, Ruger Franklin, Andrew Love, Nathan Bachtell, Ben Hatfield

Honors: UIL State finals in the Young Filmmaker’s Film Festival; Carthage Mainstreet Film Festival 2023 Young Filmmaker Best Actress Nominee - Dina Zeid ; Carthage Mainstreet Film Festival 2023

Young Filmmaker Best Actor

Nominees - Brayden Revis ; Carthage Mainstreet Film Festival 2023 2023 Young Filmmaker Finalists; Carthage Mainstreet Film Festival 2023 - Best Actress Dina Zeid ; Carthage MainStreet Film Festival 2023 - BEST OF FEST Award ( second year in a row )

JMQ earns special recognition, Primary Years Programme

Johnston-McQueen was contacted by IB to let them know that they are officially a Primary Years Programme IB campus! We are so proud of our campus and the work they’ve put into becoming an authorized PYP IB campus! Special shout out to their PYP coordinator, Ms. Brandi Patterson for your hard work and deification to helping with this process.

According to the IB website, “the PYP offers an inquiry-based, transdisciplinary curriculum framework that builds conceptual understanding. It is a student-centered approach to education for chil -

dren aged 3-12. It reflects the best of educational research, thought leadership and experience derived from IB World Schools.

“The PYP has evolved to become a world leader in future-focused education. The PYP is an example of best educational practice globally, responding to the challenges and opportunities facing young students in our rapidly changing world.”

Foster cuts the ribbon on greenhouse

Foster Middle School had their greenhouse ribbon cutting this afternoon. Staff, students and parents were welcomed with food and tours of the new greenhouse complete with loads of plants they are growing to sell back to the community!

Band running fundraiser to benefit students

The Big Green Marching Machine is selling discount cards for purchase as part of its ongoing fundraising efforts.

For just $10 each, these cards offer over well $100 in savings at various local businesses, making them a great value for anyone looking to support a good cause and save money.

The cards are also available for purchase from any high school band student and some middle school band students. If you’d like to purchase a card please contact the Big Green Marching Machine!

All proceeds from the sale of these cards go directly to benefit the LHS Band students and programs.

A part of your past. A partner for your future.

Southside has provided the people and businesses of Texas exceptional service since 1960. Let’s grow together.

AFFORDABLE CONNECTIVITY PROGRAM AFFORDABLE CONNECTIVITY PROGRAM

HOME INTERNET ACCESS IS IMPORTANT FOR EVERY STUDENT'S SUCCESS.

HOME INTERNET ACCESS IS IMPORTANT FOR EVERY STUDENT'S SUCCESS.

The Affordable Connectivity Program provides eligible households with up to a $30 discount off their monthly internet bill or anACP Free Internet Package.

The Affordable Connectivity Program provides eligible households with up to a $30 discount off monthly internet bill or anACP Free Internet Package.

You may qualify if your student receives free or reduced school lunch or breakfast!

You may qualify if your student receives free or reduced school lunch or breakfast!

Does your student participate in the Free and Reduced-Price School Lunch Program or the School Breakfast Program, including through the USDA Community Eligibility Provision?

Does your student participate in the Free and Reduced-Price School Lunch Program or the School Breakfast Program, including through the USDA Community Eligibility Provision?

If the answer is Yes, your household is eligible for the Affordable Connectivity Program.

If the answer is Yes, your household is eligible for the Affordable Connectivity Program.

You may also qualify if the household income is at or below 200% of the Federal Poverty Guidelines or a member of the household participates in certain federal assistance programs, such as SNAP, Medicaid, SSI or WIC, or Tribal assistance programs.

You may also qualify if the household income is at or below 200% of the Federal Poverty Guidelines member of the household participates in certain federal assistance programs, such as SNAP, Medicaid, SSI or WIC, or Tribal assistance programs.

1 2

Two Steps to Enroll

Go to AffordableConnectivity.gov to submit an application or print a mail-in application. Contact Cablelynx Broadband to select an eligible plan and have the discount applied bill.

Eligible households must both apply for the ACP program and contact Cablelynx at the number below.

Call 501-500-1168

Call 501-500-1168

Visit A ordableConnectivity.gov

Visit A ordableConnectivity.gov

Boys, girls soccer going strong KICKING TO SUCCESS

Varsity boys fighting for top in competitive soccer district

As of March 1, 2023, District 15-5A men’s soccer standings have been tightly contested with four teams competing for the top spot. The Longview Lobos are among the leading contenders for the title, with an impressive record of 8-2-0, placing them in a tie for second place with Tyler, just one point behind Whitehouse.

On Feb 28, Longview defeated Hallsville in a dominant performance with a score of 6-0. Despite this, the win was not enough to secure the top spot as Mount Pleasant managed to tie with Whitehouse and win in penalty kicks, earning them a crucial victory that keeps them within reach of the district title.

With four games remaining, Hallsville and Marshall have been eliminated from conten-

Varsity girls earning success on the field

tion. Texas High and Pine Tree still have outside chances, but will need to maintain strong performances and avoid any major slip-ups if they hope to stay in the hunt.

The battle for the top spot promises to be a fierce one in the final two weeks, with Longview facing tough opponents in Marshall, Pine Tree, Whitehouse, and Mount Pleasant. Mount Pleasant will face Pine Tree and Texas High before taking on Tyler in Tyler and then Longview, while Tyler has games against Hallsville, Marshall, Mount Pleasant, and Texas High. Finally, Whitehouse will also face Texas High and Hallsville before facing off against Longview and Marshall in their final two games.

The District 15-5A women’s soccer standings as of March 1, 2023, shows Pine Tree leading with 27 points, followed by Hallsville with 24 points, Longview with 23 points, and Mount Pleasant with 19 points. Tyler is in fifth place with 12 points, Whitehouse with nine points, Texas High with three points, and Marshall with zero points.

In recent matches, Longview pulled off a massive upset, defeating Hallsville 1-0 and pulling them back into contention for a district crown with four games remaining. Pine Tree narrowly escaped a significant upset themselves, defeating Tyler 3-2 in overtime. Mount Pleasant kept pace with Longview with a 1-0 win over Whitehouse. Marshall and Texas High did not play.

King to compete at Rose City Classic

Denton Record-Chronicle

TYLER — Longview High School graduate Steelie King will be among around 900 gymnasts set to converge on Tyler for an NCAA Gymnastics Meet and the annual Rose City Classic.

The event is sponsored by the Texas East Gymnastics Booster Club and is set for March 3-5 at The Oil Palace and will feature future collegiate gymnasts along with an NCAA battle between King’s Texas Woman’s University team and Centenary College.

The NCAA meet, titled “Battle for the Rose,” will feature a competition between TWU and Centenary on

Steelie|Continued to page 14

Pine Tree has already clinched a playoff berth, while Hallsville and Longview remain one win away from doing so. Longview’s remaining games are against Marshall, Pine Tree, Whitehouse, and Mount Pleasant. Pine

Girls|Continued to page 19

Lobo Varsity tennis returns with wins at tourney

The Lobo Varsity Tennis Team competed in the Corsicana tournament Friday, Feb. 24. The following players placed:

1st PLACE, GIRLS B DOUBLES

has made it to the finals the last two tournaments and is 6-1

3rd PLACE, GIRLS A SINGLES

Hannah Woolplaced 3rd in girls A singles

Golf swings to second place at tournament

The Longview Lobos varsity golf team finished in second place at the Mount Pleasant Invitational Golf Tournament on Monday, Feb. 21, with a team total of 338, just eight shots behind the champion Sulphur Springs.

Aden Fite led the Lobos, shooting a round of 78, the top score of the tournament. Keagan Jordan contributed an 80, while Sam Sherman, Thomas Hickman, and Will Lenhart scored 91, 89, and 100, respectively.

The Lobo junior varsity team also had a successful day, finishing with a team total of 402 and winning a scorecard playoff against Sulphur Springs. Noe Valencia led the JV team with a round of 96, finishing third overall in the JV division. Hank Danielson scored one shot back

at 97, followed by Sam Jackson at 103, Adam Wheeler at 106, and Lane Healy at 112.

LHS golf coach Michael Palmer said the second-place finish in the varsity division and first-place finish in the JV division is a testament to the hard work and dedication of his golfers, and his team will look to build on this success as they continue their season.

LONGVIEW HIGH SCHOOL LONGVIEW ISD

“We are really proud of the way our teams played today,” he said. “Aden Fite had an outstanding round and the team as a whole showed a lot of resilience and determination throughout the tournament. It’s great to see our JV team perform so well too, and we’re excited to see what the future holds for these young players. Overall, it was a great day for Lobo golf.”

and is 6-2 in the last two tournaments.

3rd PLACE, BOYS A DOUBLES

Jagger Barton/Alec Germanwala took 3rd place in boys A doubles as well. Their

explored the IB Transdisciplinary Theme of “How We Organize Ourselves.” They looked at how leaders such as Cesar Chavez and Martin Luther King, Jr. have organized protests to achieve justice or to bring about change. Once students had read their stories, they wrote a brief biography of each leader.

Students also read an article titled, “These Pumpkins Sure Can Kick” from Highlights magazine (and used on the STAAR test) about a group of brave and bold girls in Namibia, Africa who were the first ever soccer team for girls 12 and under there. By competing against experienced boys and women much older than them, they paved the way for more school-sponsored girls’ teams in Namibia. Students then wrote a reflection on how girls’ lives here in American differ from those of the girls in Namibia. The third center, called the Carbo Listening Station, is designed to develop listening skills that bilingual students will need for TELPAS assessments. They listen to fictional stories and then answer a set of ten comprehension questions regarding what they read.

In the fourth center called Free Research Newsela, students focus on social studies. Since both IB and Montessori

record is 9-3 in their last 3 events.

1st PLACE, BOYS A DOUBLES

Lobos Erick Van Zyl/Luke Archer defeated Wills Point team of Lajone/Sanders 6-2, 6-3. They have won four tournaments in a row and are 17-1 on the spring season.

On Thursday March 2nd Longview will host 23 teams in the Lobo Varsity Invitational. It will also be Senior Day and Longview will honor the seniors before the start of the event at

promote student agency, or free choice, students choose a story of personal interest from Newsela, an online platform featuring articles from major news and outlets; after reading it they provide a summary through the Class Dojo Journal App which is available for not only the teacher to see, but also the parents. The fifth center is for STAAR practice where students work together in small groups to read and answer questions from a STAAR passage from previous years using DMAC, an online program put out by the state of Texas for STAAR preparation. In the sixth and final center students use another Internet platform called Amira to build reading fluency. Amira is an Artificial Intelligence software that develops personalized reading practice based on the students’ reading levels. Each student reads a piece aloud to Amira who records and pinpoints weaknesses or mistakes for Mr. Sanchez, thus enabling him to streamline his tutoring immediately thereafter to conclude their Center Six work.

Kudos to Jose Sanchez and his fellow 5th Grade teachers for their energetic, hightech methods and for their dedication to preparing their students for bright futures in middle school next year and beyond.

ETAA |Continued from page 5

and listening to a story. For example, in Mrs. Doom’s classroom about France at Christmas, children made cylindrical construction paper yule logs and looked at the colorful display of lights on the Eiffel Tower, the festively decorated streets, homes, and castles around France, and more. In other rooms, students learned about Hanukkah, Kwanzaa, and Los Posados, to name a few.

“IB’s been a great thing here at Hudson PEP,” says Mrs. Doom, who is in her 6th year on the PEP campus. One school-wide practice which

HISTORY |Continued from page 1

ETMPA

The little ones at this campus put on a Black History Program for their family, and they did such a wonderful job! There was singing, dancing, and more!

BAILEY

A second grade Black History Program was held which saw several songs sung, including “MLK”, and “What a Wonderful World.” It also included a Black History Fashion Walk featuring notable figures, such as Martin Luther King Jr., Barack Obama, and Rosa Parks.

BRAMLETTE

Throughout the month, a student representative from each class would go down to the office and spotlight a famous African American during the morning announcements every day.

On Feb. 23, second grade students held their Black History in Motion event. This is a process that starts at the beginning of February. Teachers provide the kids with a list of people and what they are known for. The students can choose who they want from the list and students who do not identify with any person in the list may choose their own from another source. Once the students make their choice they begin their research and prepare their oral presentation for the program. Students then practice their presentation and dress up as their person to represent their person at the Black History in Motion.

“I learned that Michelle Obama served as the first African American first lady of the United States and she was an attorney. Due to her hard work and dedication, I learned that in my life I will have a good attitude, make good decisions, and be respectful,” said second

promotes IB principles, specifically the IB Learner Profile traits, is the “Star of the Week” assembly held every Friday, in which one student from every classroom, grades 1-5, is featured in a speech by his or her teacher for a certain life skill or trait, such as caring or communicator. “We dig deep into what it means to be principled, or what it means to be caring.” Throughout the week, the counselor talks about the trait of the week on announcements, students read stories or watch videos about it, then Mrs. Doom reflects with them in class. In her classroom

periodically, she and her students draw up an Essential Agreement in which they set goals for their behavior, both for personal growth and as a social contract. She asks students individually to consider “How can I be a better person?” and to consider as a group how they need to treat each other.

“Maybe once they’ve mastered caring, or risk-taker, they need to work on developing another attribute of the Learner Profile,” she tells them. “We need to work on things we haven’t already mastered, something we’re not already proficient in,” and so these agreements

HUDSON PEP ELEMENTARY LONGVIEW ISD

are re-evaluated and altered as needed. After discussion, students in the class sign the new Essential Agreement and after reflection, they each set personal goals which they write on note cards. Most recently, they reflected on their goals for 2023 by posting New Year’s resolutions in the hallway outside their classroom.

Longview ISD is fortunate to have teachers like Melissa Doom who embody IB Learner Profile traits like principled, caring, and knowledgeable and who dedicate their talents to the betterment of their students.

day, Feb. 10, the campus held a “Movie Time!” for 1st and 2nd graders, while 3rd through 5th took part in the “Motown Dance!”

The following Friday, Feb. 24, J.L. Everhart presented Black History Month: Black resilience, with special guests, Wiley College Choir. The even featured J.L.E. Divine Nine Mini Steppers, their choir, poetry, and more!

grader Elaiyah Brown.

In the month of February, Bramlette Elementary began their educational journey and celebration of Black History. In preparation of the Black History Program, the students had the opportunity to learn Negro Spirituals Hymns such as, Wade in the Water, Go Down Moses, Keep Your Lamps Trimmed and Burning, along with a additional selections in the instructional music period. These songs were selected because they portray the struggles of African Americans as they fought for freedom and justice.

The program this year took the form of a radio talk show, “B.E.S.A”, that was hosted by London Manning, a fifth grade student, who interviewed seven influential African American politicians. The title of the segment was “They Were First”, focusing on African American political leaders who were the first to serve in their positions.

Students got the opportunity to dress the part of these prestigious politicians as they shared enlightening information about who they were to visiting parents, students, and staff. Some of the leaders highlighted in the program were Yvonne Burke, the first African-American elected to the US House of Representatives from the American West; Barack Obama the first African-American to serve as

president of the United States of America; and Kamala Harris, the first African-American woman to serve as Vice President, just to name a few. The program ended with the choir singing “We Shall Overcome”, the anthem of the civil rights movement sung in important marches.

HUDSON

Hudson PEP held a variety of activities throughout the month.

EVERHART

Early in the month, on Fri-

JMQ

At Johnston McQueen, the focus was highlighted not just the students but by staff. They included black history highlights in their weekly newsletter in class. This emphasize empowers the staff by learning more about Black History Month which they can share with their own students.

Students dug deep into all aspects of Black History such as music. In music class, great black artist were highlighted.

History|Continued to page 17

SENIOR CELEBRATION

|Continued from page 11

Saturday, March 4 at 7 p.m.

The Rose City Classic will include sessions throughout the day from March 3-5. All sessions, including the NCAA meet between TWU and Centenary, are open to the public. Tickets can be purchased at the door or online at rosecityclassicinvitational. com.

King joined Texas East Gymnastics as a freshman at Longview High School. In four years, she moved up the ranks from Level 8 to Level 10 and signed with Texas Woman’s University.

As a freshman at TWU, King was a first team All-American on the beam and second team selection on vault.

A year ago as a sophomore, she competed in 15 events and claimed the Midwest Independent Conference individual title on the balance beam, scoring a 9.800, and earned all-conference first team honors. She qualified for the individual

beam championship at the USAG Nationals, scoring a 9.850. In the finals, she scored a 9.750 and placed ninth.

In the team finals, King competed on vault, bars and beam, and her career-high on vault helped lead TWU to its 12th USAG National Championship title.

She was named to the Fall 2021 and Spring 2022 Lone Star Conference Commissioner’s Honor Roll and helped lead her team to the highest GPA in the nation among all collegiate gymnastic programs. She also earned first team All-America honors on beam.

Over the years, the Rose City Classic has hosted both college and Olympic-bound gymnasts.

Coaches and owners Stacy and Martin Parsley , along with coaches Alyssa Davis and Marisol Knight and Madison Dunlap , of Texas East Gymnastics (TEG) have worked hard to prepare their teams for this season and are

always striving for the best from their athletes.

The TEG training facility, located in Tyler, is state-of-the-art. The seasoned coaches provide the newest training techniques for each athlete. The gymnasts spend 22+ hours a week perfecting their skills, and those skills will be showcased at the Rose City Classic.

The quality of gymnastics talent trained by TEG has main-

tained excellence for many years. Visit rosecityclassicinvi tational.com for the complete schedule of meet events.

The Texas East Gymnastics Booster Club is a non-profit organization formed to assist in minimizing the expenses incurred by the competitive gymnastics team at Texas East Gymnastics. All proceeds from the 2022 Rose City Classic help support the TEG Booster Club.

STEELIE

Gifted & Talented

Gifted & Talented 2023

Montessori

Round 1 March

magnet

witheducation purpose

• Out of District Transfers*

• Choice Apps**

Round 2 May

• Out of District Transfers*

school of choice

school of choice

• Choice Apps**

• New & Returning Hudson PEP Students

robotics coding equitable opportunities diverse innovative after school programs accelerated learning

yes, i can! encouraging s.t.e.a.m.

tea districta-rated international baccalaureate

tea districta-rated international baccalaureate

*Out of District Applications are for Students that live outside of areas zoned to LISD.

**Choice Apps are applications for students that live in LISD and choose to attend a campus outside of their zoned area based on their permanent residence.

yes, i can!

career technology

career technology

Montessori magnet witheducation purpose s.t.e.a.m. encouraging robotics coding equitable opportunities diverse innovative after school programs accelerated learning

For more infomation, contact the LISD Welcome Center at 903-381-2268 or go to ChooseLISD.org

OBITUARIES

Longview ISD offers our most sincere condolences to our extended Lobo family

Ray Wright

Ernest Ray Wright entered into the Kingdom of Heaven on February 15, 2023, after a brief battle with ALS. Ray was born December 14, 1950, in Longview, Texas to parents E. J. and Martha Wright. Ray made his lifetime home in Longview with his wife, and high school sweetheart Jamie Tutt, and their two children Jeffrey Ray and Jennifer Lynn.

Ray distinguished himself throughout his school years both as a scholar and an athlete. He was very well known as Number 33 on the Longview High School Lobo football team and was also a formidable player on the basketball court and track field.

A proud “Red Raider”, Ray graduated from Texas Tech University in 1973 with a bachelor’s degree in Education. This degree, with emphases in Biology and Physical Education, formed the foundation for Ray’s long and distinguished career as an educator. He further earned a master’s degree in Education Mid-Management from Stephen F. Austin University.

“Coach Wright”, as he was best known, served as a teacher and coach at Forest

BOARD |Continued from page 4

of the allowable expenditures in this grant.”

“MERV 13 air filters use both charged fibers and traditional mechanical filtration principles to immediately grab and trap airborne contaminants,” he said. “These upgraded filters block 98 percent of pollutants and will be installed throughout the district.”

SUPT’S REPORT

During the Superintendent’s Report portion of the meeting, the Technology Student Association gave a presentation to the

Park Junior High School, Hallsville Junior and Senior High Schools, and Kilgore High School. These positions led him to his dream job at Pine Tree High School where for over thirty-three years he taught biology, coached varsity football, coached track as Head Coach, and directed the Drivers Education Program. Throughout this distinguished career Coach Wright touched the lives of thousands of students and student athletes. He instilled in them ethical behavior, along with a strong work ethic in both the classroom and on the athletic field.

After leaving the classroom Ray rounded out his career at Pine Tree ISD as the Director of Transportation, and then worked as a Landman and a contract construction superintendent for RLM and Transit companies. Ray was an active member of Longview Greggton Rotary Club where he was awarded a Paul Harris Fellow. He also served as a member of the Gregg County Appraisal Board.

For over fifty years Ray was a faithful member of Oakland Heights Baptist Church where he served as a Deacon, choir member and twice a volunteer missionary to Malawi. But the pinnacle of Ray’s contribution to his church was his forty years as teacher of the adult men’s Sunday school class. Ray poured his heart and talent into this Sunday school class which touched so many members of Oakland Heights. Ray

board about the program’s benefits to Longview students, as well as some of their recent accomplishments.

Other items in Dr. James Wilcox’s report included the various facility updates being considered for the different campuses, including new water fountains that can fill water bottles at the high school, and improvements to campus Heating, Ventilation, and Air Conditioning units.

Also included was the latest Teach Worthy Report, the RAP-

would start every day about four o’clock in the morning with Bible study in preparation for each Sunday’s class. But it was not only study that made Ray a good teacher, but it was also his genuine love and respect for people, and foremost the close walk he maintained with his Lord.

Ray was preceded in death by his parents E. J. and Martha Wright and parents-in-law James and Carlene Tutt. He is survived by his wife of fifty years, Jamie Tutt Wright and their two children, son Jeffrey Ray and daughter Jennifer Lynn, sister Ann Wright White (John White), grandson Austin Prazak, nephews and nieces Jim Tutt (Margaret Ann), Teri Tutt Cooper, Tim Tutt (Amy), Tom Tutt (Karen), Benjamin Tutt, Joel Tutt, Daniel Tutt (Sarah) and numerous great-nephews and nieces.

The family welcomed friends at a visitation on Saturday afternoon, February 18, at three o’clock at Oakland Heights Baptist Church, Longview. A Celebration of Life followed at four o’clock with the pastor Reverend Michael Cook and longtime friend Reverend Glen Owens officiating. Interment followed at Winterfield Cemetery.

In lieu of floral remembrances, the family respectfully requests considering a donation to The ALS Association or the Oakland Heights Baptist Church Building Fund.

TOR (Rapid Algorithmic Prototyping Tool for Ordered Reasoning) data from the Office of Innovation, as well as updates on LISD Summer Programs.

In addition, Dr. Wilcox received presentations from public school charter partners: East Texas Advanced Academies (ETAA), Longview

Educates and Prospers (LEAP), and the Texas Council for International Studies (TCIS).

PUBLIC HEARING

Board members also held a public hearing over the Texas Academic Performance Report (TAPR).

The Texas Education Code requires each district’s Board of Trustees to publish an annual report that includes the TAPR Report, campus performance objectives, a report of violent or

Board|Continued to page 19

Thank you for taking care of our extended Lobo family in their time of need.

WILCOX

Board meetings set for March 6, March 22

Trustees usually meet in the boardroom of the LISD Education Support Center, (1301 E. Young St.) but often set special-called meetings at various locations around the district.

The next Regular Board Meeting is

scheduled for 6 p.m. on Monday, March 6, at the ESC campus.

A Joint Board Meeting is set for 6 p.m., Wednesday, March 22. The location has yet to be determined.

For more information about the LISD

meetings go to LISD.org . Agendas and Minutes can also be found at the website, as well as information on financial transparency. Information about the areas of the district can also be found online at LISD.org

District seeking architectural firm for various projects

The Longview Independent School District is seeking to retain an architectural firm with the qualifications and staff resources necessary to perform planning, designing, bidding and construction oversight phases of various projects deemed to be in the best interest of the District. In addition the District is looking for a firm with the capability to provide value added services including, but not limited to structural engineering, security consultation, technology consultation, interior design, etc. Therefore, it is the intent

of the Board to obtain information in the request for qualifications that addresses these options.

Firms are requested to submit their qualifications outlining their background and experience in campus planning and building design.

Selected firms may be invited to participate in interviews. Once the most qualified firm is determined, the District will attempt to negotiate a fee.

If a fee cannot be agreed upon, negotiations will begin with the next most qualified firm. Once an

agreement is reached, the selected firm’s name will be submitted for the final approval by the Longview ISD Board of Trustees.

Submit one original and four (4) copies of the RFQ to the following:

Longview ISD Administration Office 1301 E Young Street

Longview Tx 75602

Please mark on the outside of the envelope “RFQ #20-01.”

HISTORY |Continued from page 13

Their fifth grade students performed a black history music program, led by music teacher Kristi Grimes.

Johnston McQueen students spent all of February celebrating black history month. Each grade level studied different aspects of African American culture such as famous leaders, music genres, food, and some many contributions to our global world.

We want to create a better world by understand all cultures that will impact and help us work together even better. We focused on ending hate that black Americans have felt, but teaching our students to love and celebrate their differences.

Third graders invited leaders across district, parents and students to present their research on different Black Americans that have impacted our world for the better. They learned from the leaders of present and past.

NED E. WILLIAMS

Ned E. Williams held a wonderful Black History Program. During the program, they sang songs, talked about important historical figures, and more.

FOREST PARK

Forest Park closed out a wonderful February with a Black History Month Program put on by their amazing and talented students. A skit about the Little Rock 9 was performed, their

band provided a special music selection, and a special solo song was performed. Another highlight was a dance performance from our FPMS Cheerleaders. The program closed with a fashion show dedicated to African attire featuring the FPMS staff and their families!

JUDSON

Judson held a “Food for the Soul” luncheon for staff on Friday, Feb. 10. Each morning, students would talk about Black History facts during morning advisory. On Tuesday, former Lobo alumni and professional football player LaDarian Robertson was a guest speaker, and the campus choir performed some songs.

LHS

AVID teacher, Ms. Richard and her students presented, “Today in Black History” during morning announcements. They showcased and informed the student body and staff about great black Americans who have made great contributions for the betterment of society in general. Near the end of the month, the AVID students honored Principal James Brewer for his hard work and dedication to Lobo Nation.

criminal incidents, and information received under the Texas Education Code 51.403(e) from the Texas Higher Education Coordinating Board.

Performance is shown disaggregated by student groups, including ethnicity and socioeconomic status.

Chapter 39 of the Texas Education Code requires each district’s board of trustees to publish an annual report that includes the following information:

• Student Performance in Postsecondary Institutions

• 2021-22 Texas Academic Performance Report

• Report on Violent or Criminal Incidents

• 2021-22 District Accreditation Status

• PEIMS Financial Standard Reports

• Campus Performance Objectives

The Board of Trustees is required to hold a public hearing for discussion of this report within 90 days of the receipt of the TAPR report from TEA. Chapter 39 also stipulates that within two weeks following the hearing, the district must publish its annual report, including posting it on the district website.

No residents spoke up in support of or opposition to the TAPR report during the public hearing.

DISTRICT DONATIONS

Board members unanimously approved the following donations:

$40,000 to the Longview High School football program from the Lobo Football Booster Club for supplies and expenses;

$4,200 from Longview High School to pay for repairs to Chromebooks. The money is from fines paid by students for damaged Chromebooks;

$1,000 from Ron Hutchi-

son-Network Investment for books for the classroom library/ reading area;

$800 from Longview Regional Medical Center for the Backpack Program in honor of Dr. James Wilcox;

$500 from Zeta Phi Beta Sorority, Inc. for student incentives (academic);

$500 from ETX Clearing & Dirt Work for Longview Beekeeping Club;

$500 from Keebaugh & Company LLC for the CATE Welding to purchase competition shirts, supplies, and/or meals;

$100 from ABC Auto Parts, Ltd. for LHS Welding to fund shirts and equipment; and

$77 from Carolyn A. Jones for the purchase of Bailey Elementary UIL shirts for students participating in UIL.

IN OTHER BUSINESS

During the course of the meeting, the LISD Board of Trustees also:

• APPROVED the Resolution to Hold a Joint Election with the City of Longview on May 6, 2023;

• APPROVED Minutes and Board Time Use Tracker for Jan. 25 Special Meeting;

• APPROVED Financial Statements as of December 2022 and January 2023;

• APPROVED the Trustee Election Order for Districts II and IV; and

• APPROVED Budget Amendment No. 5.

FOR MORE INFO

Trustees usually meet in the boardroom of the LISD Education Support Center (1301 E. Young Street), but often set special-called meetings at various locations around the district. The next regular meeting is tentatively scheduled for 6 p.m. March 6

GIRLS |Continued from page 11

Tree will face Mount Pleasant, Longview, Texas High, and Hallsville, while Hallsville has matches against Tyler, Whitehouse, Marshall, and Pine Tree remaining.

Tyler will need to win out to have any hope of a playoff berth. Fortunately for them, they will face off against Marshall or Texas High. However, they will have to either hope Mount Pleasant loses out or pull off an upset over Hallsville,

BOYS |Continued from page 11

Despite the challenge ahead, the Lobos remain confident in their abilities and are looking forward to the upcoming matches.

“We know it won’t be easy, but we’re ready to give it our all and compete at the highest level,” said head coach James Wright

then defeat the Lady Tigers on March 10.

Longview’s win over Hallsville was an impressive performance that could give them the momentum they need to make a strong push toward a district championship. With their remaining games against tough opponents, including a match against Pine Tree, the Lady Lobos will have to continue to play at a high level if they hope to come out on top.

The district has seen a resurgence in talent and competitiveness, with all four top teams demonstrating impressive skill on the field. Fans can expect an exciting finish to the season as each team fights to claim the coveted top spot in District 15-5A.

Longview Gaming & Esports