Social on Page 18 BACK TO SCHOOL Students,
Check out the latest social media posts that you may have missedSee staff start a new year Board OKs tax rate cut
“Don’t let yesterday take up too much of today.” ― Will Rogers Vol. VII September 2022 Sharing the good news about Longview Independent School District Dorcas Dunlap takes over as principal of Ned E. Williams campusSeeDunlap on Page 4 Superintendent Dr. James Wilcox welcomes back students, staff, and families See Opinion on Page 2 Journalists named to Texas Association of School Boards Media HonorSeeRollMedia on Page 8
If approved later this month, the proposal would see the tax rate de crease considerably from $1.4394 per $100 valuation for 2021-22 to $1.3276 per $100 valuation for the 2022-23 fiscal year.
Board|Continued to page 19 District earns ‘A’ from state A Texas Education Agency report re leased on Friday, August 12, Longview ISD earned an “A” based on the 2021-22 STAAR testing. Out of the thirteen campuses, every one earned at least a “B”. This sees the district improve from a “B” rating in 2019. Tyler ISD received a “B,” Lufkin ISD received a “B,” Kil gore ISD received a “B,” Pine Tree ISD received a “B,” and Spring Hill ISD received an “A.” The 2022 accountability rating is the first to be issued since 2019 due to two Rating|Continued to page 12 This would be the fourth straight year of decrease Find more back to school photos on Page 6.
Recently a parent shared a screenshot of a social me dia post. The post made many rather scandalous claims about the district, the administration, the board, as well as a rather vitriolic personal attack on me. The parent asked me what I intended to do about this person’s claims and accusations. My response: nothing. There’s nothing I can say to or do for someone who has already made up their mind, or who chooses not to discuss such matters with our department. We’re always eager to hear from folks. Our depart ment’s role is to provide infor mation and maintain open lines of communication. If someone chooses to air their grievances in secret or private gatherings, that’s certainly their right, but it seems pointless to ignore the very department whose entire existence is predicated on serv ing the public’s questions and concerns.Youcan send us an email at ask@LISD.org and let us know what we can do for you. If there’s a particular social media post or photo you want shared, tag us @LongviewISD and we’ll be glad to pass it along. If you have a question or concern just go to our website LISD. org/contact and send your message, or just come on by our office and talk to us! We’re located in the LISD administra tion building at 1301 E. Young Street, and we’d love to talk with you about anything! Community Relations ex ists to be a means of clear and straightforward communication for the people of our district, but every conversation requires both sides to participate. Otherwise, it’s just a bunch of noise. We ask for your help in telling our community’s sto ry. Help us, help you! Have a great school year, Lobo Nation!
Longview ISD trustees have unanimously approved amend ing local board policy to create a “Sick Leave Bank” for district employees that have exhausted their regular paid days off. Presented to the board by Dr. James Hockenberry, Assistant Superintendent of District Ser vices, the purpose of this bank “is a benefit to assist employees in dealing with prolonged, severe,
BUS DRIVERS GO THE EXTRA MILE
EARNSDISTRICT‘A’
The Texas Education Agency released its 2022 accountability rat ings on Monday, Aug. 15, with Longview ISD receiving an “A” grade and 52 campus distinc tions—the most in our area! Student achievement eval uates performance across all subjects for all students, on both general and alternate as sessments; College, Career, and Military Readiness (CCMR) in dicators; and graduation rates. School Progress measures district and campus outcomes in two areas: the number of students that grew at least one year academically (or are on track) as measured by STAAR results and the achievement of all students relative to districts or campuses with similar eco nomically disadvantaged per centages. Read more about this story on Page 1
Hello Lobo Nation! By the time many of you read this newspaper, the 2022-23 school year will already be well underway. I would like to take this moment to welcome you all back.Iam proud to serve Longview Independent School District as your superintendent. I am grateful to be a small part of such an amazing and dynam ic collection of students, staff, parents, and community mem bers. It is truly a blessing. As many of you are no doubt still working to get back into the swing of things, I want to encourage you to take a mo ment each day to reflect on your vital role in our district. From the youngest elementary student to the longest-tenured employee, we want Longview ISD to be a place where our people know their importance and value to everything this district aspires to be. With the start of a new school year, and everything we hope to achieve and accomplish for our students and staff, I cannot help but look back from where we’ve come. There’s just so much to think of, I could fill up this entire newspaper. But I think I’ll just hit a few of the highlights...
BOARD OKs
The Longview ISD Board of Trustees approved the pro posed 2022-23 property tax rate during their regular meeting Monday, Aug. 8. If approved later this month, the proposal would see the tax rate decrease considerably from $1.4394 per $100 valuation for 2021-22 to $1.3276 per $100 valuation for the 2022-23 fiscal year. Dr. Wayne Guidry, Assis tant Superintendent of Finance said a meeting and public hear ing will be held at 12 p.m. on Aug. 25 to discuss, consider, and possibly approve the proposed 2022-23 budget and tax rate. Read more about this story on Page 1 SICK LEAVE BANK
Altogether, we are commit ted to doing everything we can to help inform, promote, and celebrate the amazing things about Longview ISD. But com munication is a two-way street. We cannot answer questions that are never asked. We cannot address concerns that are not shared with us directly.
— An award-winning journalist and photographer, Matthew Prosser is Commu nications Director for Longview Independent School District.
As we all prepare for anoth er school year with plenty of questions in mind, I wanted to present myself and my team at your disposal for any concerns you might have about the days, weeks, and months to come.
OPINION
The mission of Longview ISD Community Relations is to facil itate open lines of communica tion for our students, staff, and entire Lobo community. Our team consists of Mrs. Eliza beth Ross, Mrs. Kacy Swaim, Mr. Dustin Taylor, Mr. Fran cisco Rojas, and myself: Mat thew Prosser. Elizabeth (or “Miss Liz”) is the lady you see dashing from one event to the next, camera and laptop in hand, capturing videos and photos of various events. Kacy often works behind the scenes, coordinating and planning events, but if you call our office at 903-381-2235 she’s probably the first person you speak with. Dustin is the tall red-headed fellow respon sible for creating this beautiful newspaper you hold in your hands. Those of you who listen to our ¡Lobo Live! radio show, you already know Fran cisco, but he also serves a vital role as the official spokesman for LISD.
To prepare for the new school year, Longview ISD bus drivers visited the homes of Pre-k to 3rd-grade students Saturday, Aug. 13 to clarify pick-up and drop-off locations for the up coming school year. Chairo Harris-Kenney is a bus driver for Longview ISD and she’s often the first face kids see when they head to school. She’s been driving kids and watching them grow up for 10 “It’syears!ajoy for school to be returning and seeing each other again,” said Harris-Kenney. Read more about this story on Page 3
LOWER TAX RATE
Welcome back students staff, families
Community Relations: Help us help you PROSSER THE LONGVIEW VOICE — September 2022 Wilcox|Continued to page 16 WILCOX
By Matthew Prosser
EARNTEACHERSBONUSES
The sounds of drums wel comed staff and teachers from across Longview ISD during the Aug. 12th Staff Convoca tion, including a special group of teachers who were awarded a total of 1.8 million dollars from the Teacher Incentive Allotment.Atotalof 157 teach ers were awarded this bonus. To qualify teach ers had to reach a cer tain threshold between teacher evaluations and student growth. Throughout the convocation, names were read and names kept being read! Read more about this sto ry on Page 4
Page 2
,
By Dr. James SuperintendentWilcox,
WILLIAMSDUNLAP to
five of whom would also go on to be teachers, one of whom would also become the su perintendent of Elderville School District. One of his son’s, Elzie Williams, even went on to become principal of the Ned E. Williams campus after his father’s pass ing. Clearly, education as well as being a leader in education runs in the family for Ms. Dunlap. A Longview High School graduate, Ms. Dunlap went on to earn a Bachelor of Ap plied Arts & Science degree from Stephen F. Austin State University, then her Mas ters of Education in Educational Leader ship and Policy Studies degree from The University of Texas at Arlington. After earning her degrees, she would go on to teach in Longview ISD for 20 years. Over the course of her career, she recalls many important moments for her. “Over the years, there have been so many rewarding and impactful moments that scamper through my mind. Yet, there is one that stands out the most; receiving the Lamplighter Recipient Award in April from a senior student at Longview High School (whom I taught in fourth grade at Hudson PEP Elementary School) filled my heart with pride,” Ms. Dunlap stated. “I was even more proud and ecstatic to learn that he was this year’s Salutatorian for Longview High School! My ‘why’ has al ways been, ‘Be the positive spark that ig nites a change in someone’s life.’ To make such an influential, memorable impact on students is an invaluable reward.
By Jesus Martinez
Dunlap|Continued
CBS19 Longview ISD bus drivers went the extra mile Saturday morning, August 13. Chairo Harris-Kenney is a bus driver for Longview ISD and she’s often the first face kids see when they head to school. She’s been driving kids and watching them grow up for 10 years!“Ihave a lot of memories of course you know the kids en joying Christmas usually in the holidays we decorate our buses and I do give gifts to the small er kids and they just remember me and it’s a joy. For school to be returning and seeing each other again,” said Harris-Ken ney. This year Longview ISD started something new to build the relationship between the district and parents.
Dorcas Dunlap carries on family tradition
Meet|Continued to page 5
Students join Texas Shakespeare Festival to page 16
Stage|Continued
Page 3THE LONGVIEW VOICE — September 2022
“During these twenty years, I have worn many hats and proudly continue to wear them. I began my educational
“I knew I wanted to be a principal, but had no idea I would be so blessed to lead the school of my family’s namesake. It is a dream come true to be able to mimic the one that shaped this educational path for me,” Ms. Dunlap said. “He is the pioneer himself, my legacy.”ofandgrandfather’sfollowgivesinevitableNedgrandfather,great-greatProfessorE.Williams.Itwasformeandmesuchpridetoinmygreat-greatfootstepsbeanintricatepartcontinuinghisamazingMr.Williamshadtenchildren,
As Dorcas Dunlap takes over the Ned E. Williams campus as the new principal, it is apparent that the world of education was always her future.
An annual tradition in Kilgore, the Texas Shakespeare Festival this past summer featured two Longview ISD students taking to the stage. Joseph Kaan from Hudson PEP and Nathan Bachtell from LHS appeared in the musical “The Music Man”.Joseph played the role of Win throp, the same part he played sev eral years back when LHS also per formed “The Music Man.”
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“I really enjoyed it and had a great time getting to work with profession al actors. They were really nice and fun to work with. This is the first time I acted in something profession al, so I was super excited. It’s really interesting to see what’s behind the scenes in a play too, and to actually be a part of it all,” Joseph said. “So many people are busy watching the play and they don’t get to see how much is going on behind the play at the same time. The actors were all amazing, but I liked getting to see
Bus drivers meet students ahead of first day
JOHNSON GUIDRY Bonus|Continued to page 5
By Jesus Martinez CBS19
Bonuses given to 157 district teachers
“One of the most dangerous places you can be on the road is sitting on the road with cars going past you at 60 milesper-hour. When a bus breaks down, kids have to get off the bus and be transferred to an otherThanksbus.”to the new buses being 2023 models, they will be spending more time on the road and less in the garage which will help the district to spend less money and keep the students
Page 4 THE LONGVIEW VOICE — September 2022
Teachers at Longview ISD were rewarded at today’s convocation. Not only for their growth, but for the growth of their students as well. The sounds of drums wel comed staff and teachers from across Longview ISD includ ing a special group of teachers who were awarded a total of 1.8 million dollars from the Teacher Incentive Allotment. “Our students showed that they made more than a years growth and that was done through a lot of hard work and hands on with the students,” said Yolanda Juarez , second grade bilingual teacher. 157 teachers were awarded with this bonus. To qualify teachers had to reach a cer tain threshold between teach er evaluations and student growth. Throughout the con vocation names were read and names kept being read! “We appreciate our teach ers, we want to keep our teachers, we want to reward good teaching and the winners are our students. They are the winners,” said John York , Human Resources Officer for Longview ISD. This is Longview ISD’s third year giving out these bo nuses, which come from state funding. It was one of the first school districts in the state to receive this incentive funding. The awarded teachers will continue to receive the money for the next five years. “The goal is to provide a realistic pathway for teachers to earn $100,000 plus on a 10 month contract,” York said. “We want to keep our best teachers in the classroom at our most challenging campus es.”And this small recogni tion is part of a larger ef fort Longview ISD has been working towards. Just before convocation, superintendent
Two SpEd buses replaced with new 2023 models
Two of the six Special Edu cation buses have been taken off the road and have been replaced with two new models. The older ones, 2011 and 2012, each had over 200,000 miles on them. Due to the wear and tear, the buses have seen a lot of time off the road and in the garage. This year alone, they had spent weeks in the garage.“Wewere spending too much money on repairs for these two Special Ed buses,” said Dr. Wayne Guidry , assistant superintendent of business, transportation and technology.
Thanks to a partnership with Ideal Impact, the district has implemented a variety of steps to help improve energy costs throughout Longview ISD cam puses and facilities. From June 2021 to February 2022, the district has saved $158,470.24 in electricity costs and $16,938.27 in gas from the high school and ESC. These two campuses alone have saved the district a total of $175,408.51 in under 12 months. For the en tire district, $208,667 has been saved in the 10-month period. “The district is saving money through proper HVAC sched uling. The steps that led to the savings was the installation of new thermostats and other controls (for exhaust fans, light ing, etc.) and then the ability to schedule them through our scheduling software based on calendaring,” said Mr. Michael Johnson, project manager at Ide al Impact.Byscheduling, Mr. Johnson means that when a location is not in use, the software will turn things off to cut back on electricity use. By doing this, an aver age of $20,886 a month has been saved per campus. Dr. Wayne Guidry, Assistant Superinten dent of Finance, said Ideal Impact has guar anteed a savings goal of $1,990,450 for the district and “shall re main partners until the goal is “Ourmet.”goal is to annually$500,000save on our utility utilizethekeepwetheseUltimately,bill.arefundsareabletowithindistrictandfortheneeds of our stu dents and staff members,” he said. “Reducing kilowatt-hours will also increase the lifespan of our HVAC units.”
Anothersafe.advantage of the new buses is replacing parts will not be much of an issue. With the older ones, getting parts could often be a hassle now“What’sdays. even more press ing is that you can’t even get parts this year. They’re old, we couldn’t get parts (due to glob al shortages), and they’ve just been spending too much time in the shop,” Dr. Guidry said.
Partnership helping district save thousands on energy
BONUS |Continued from page 4 SWALLOW
“We actually meet the parents. And I think as a parent is great because you get a chance to see who you are trusting to get your kids to and from school safely and as well as a bus driver I know who little Johnny is supposed to go to,” said Harris-KenneyBusdriversfrom Longview ISD woke up early to visit their kids’ houses. and got to rekindle the relationship with their kids after a long summer break — one of those being Luiz Alves Alves, a third-grader, says he’s most excited for science and spending time with his “Doingfriends.myscience,” he said. “(My fa vorite part about riding the bus is) that you can talk to your friends.” And for all the kids who ride Har ris-Kenney’s bus… “The first day of school is going to be great! Mrs. Kenny can’t wait to pick you up and get you home safely,” said Har ris-Kenney.
“Honestly, it is an absolute honor to take over the LHS TSA program and I cannot wait to get started,” Mrs. Swallow said. “My hope and plan for the high school team is to continue the same rate of success as well as grow our chapter to more members so even more can experience the amazing skills TSA has to offer.
MEET |Continued from page 3
Melissa Swallow moves to LHS, taking over Lobo TSA 2022
THE LONGVIEW VOICE — September
TSA teams earn success at Nationals
Page 5 SwallowMelissa , who has served as a TSA Advi sor for 5 years and been with Longview ISD for 9 years, has frommovedFoster to Longview High School.Entering her sixth year as a TSA Advisor, she will be replac ing her father, Charles Mosley, who was the previous sponsor for TSA at the campus. Her po sition is Project Lead the Way Teacher and TSA Coordinator.
A huge congratulations to the LHS and Foster TSA teams! Both teams attended and earned huge success at Nationals! “Nationals this year was a tremendous success! I am so incredibly proud of my students, both our finalists and non-plac ing students as well,” said Foster TSA advisor Melissa Swallow. “My students worked diligent ly through the year as well as through our summer break, which shows an extremely im pressive amount of dedication.” LHS While there, high school student Shreemayi Undavali was elected as the 2022-23 National TSA Treasurer. In competitions, the LHS won 2nd place in Chapter Team , with Shreemayi Un davalli , Hibah Khan , Eve lyn Campos , Rachna Edal ur , Gizela Terrones , Nadia Akila , and Omika Patel com peting. In 1st place , for Pre pared Presentation , Rachna Edalur beat everyone else in the nation. Well done to all of our high school TSA students! FOSTER Foster TSA students placed in numerous competitions, performing better than most students in the nation! First place in Chapter Team : Jordan Nash , Evie Land , Ellie Oglesbee , Aidan Rahim , Ezequiel Pascual , and Cohen Hardison Second place in Leadership Strategies: Jordan Nash , Jersson Trujillo , and Kiley Strong Second place in Prepared Speech : Kiley Strong Seventh place in System Control : Jamarion Hunter and Ishan Patel Ninth place in Challenging Tech Issues : Frances Wilson and Cohen Hardison Sixth place in Biotechnol ogy : Jaslene Solis , Jordan Nash , and Jersson Trujillo “I always tell my students that if they put in the hard work and never give up, it will eventually bring them success, which in this year, is evident by our not only top 10 finalists, Jordan Nash induct ed as our elected Texas TSA State Reporter, Cohen Hardi son elected as a Texas TSA State Leadership Member, but also top 3 placers as well,” Ms. Swallow said. “Congrat ulations to FMS TSA for the record-breaking awards this year! I can’t wait to see what this group accomplishes.”
Replacing Mrs. Swallow at the Foster campus is Jacob Jones.
“I am very excited to be back at my alma mater and to be a Lobo. I cannot wait to see what my students accomplish this year!”
James Wilcox surprised everyone in attendance that they were finally an “A” rated“Wedistrict.hadno campus with less than a ‘B.’ Out of our 15 campuses every campus was a ‘B’ or an ‘A,’ The overall score for the district is an ‘A’ and I say go Lobos,” said James Wilcox, Superintendent for LongviewTeachersISDhere are having a little fun before the year starts and are excited to meet their new kids. “It makes the year go by fast and hav ing fun with them and learning a lot,” Juarez said.
Page 6 THE LONGVIEW VOICE — September 2022
Page 7THE LONGVIEW VOICE — September 2022
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A partner for your future.
Page 8 Longview ISD honored ten local journalists named to the 2022 TASB Media Honor Roll during their regular meeting Aug.Honorees8. include Mr. Morgan Smith (Longview Gameday), Mr. Frank Sides (Longview Gameday), Mr. Jamey Boyum (KLTV), Mr. Arthur Clayborn (KLTV), Mr. Blake Holland (KLTV), Ms. Marangeli Lopez (KYTX), Ms. Reagan Roy (KYTX), Mr. Frank Jeffer son (formerly of KETK), Ms. Ana Conejo (Tyler Paper Es pañol), and Mr. Tim Thorsen (M. Roberts Media). “Each of these people exem plifies the best attributes of community journalism,” said Dr. ryHockenberJames , thetheofreportingnews“ReportingtrictdentSuperintenAssistantofDisServices.themeansallthenews:positive,negative,and everything in-between. Journalists have an important role in the per ception of our community, and we honor those who serve the common good by providing ac curate and relevant coverage of our schools, without partial ity or Sponsoredagenda.”by the Texas Association of School Boards (TASB), the Media Honor Roll recognizes media professionals statewide for fair and bal anced reporting of news about public schools. Reports from media organizations and indi viduals across the state were honored by their local school districts.Thehonorees were nomi nated by LISD Community Relations, each candidate selected with criteria based on the accuracy of their coverage, conduct and decorum as pro fessionals, objectivity in cov ering local education stories, and a clear presentation of facts without bias or personal vendetta.LISDDirector of Communi cation Mr. Matthew Prosser said the integrity of profes sional journalists “is more im portant than ever, and these wonderful people, we believe, represent the best of the best in local news.”
A part of your past.
“A commitment to truth and honest reporting is para mount for any journalist, and Longview ISD is grateful for all of these honorees for their excellence in serving the pub lic’s trust,” he said. In addition, Superintendent Dr. James Wilcox nominated Prosser and Mr. Dustin Tay lor for their work on the dis trict newspaper The Longview Voice “On any given week, our district has numerous stories highlighting the accomplish ments of our students, em ployees, and the entire LISD community,” he said. “The work that Dustin, Matthew, and the entire Community Relations department does to shine a light on all the won derful things happening here is absolutely vital, especially when so much of it will often go unreported otherwise.” Founded in 2016, The Longview Voice is distributed weekly as a digital edition, with a monthly print edition delivered to LISD campuses and area businesses. TASB is a nonprofit orga nization established in 1949 to serve local Texas school boards. School board mem bers are the largest group of publicly elected officials in the state. The districts they represent serve more than 5.34 million public school students.Congratulations to our 2022 class of honorees, and thank you to all Longview ISD me dia partners for your service to our community and to the profession of journalism!
Journalists named to TASB Media Honor Roll
Southside has provided the people and businesses of Texas exceptional service since 1960. Let’s grow together.
THE LONGVIEW VOICE — September 2022
Page 9THE LONGVIEW VOICE — September 2022
Page 10 Discover how it feels to have Your savings federally insured to at least $250,000 and backed by the full faith and credit of the National Credit Union Administration, a U.S. Government Agency. YOUR HAPPY FUTURE IS ALSO OURS Free mobile banking app Text message banking and Mobilealertscheck deposits Free, interest earning checking for all members 24/7 fraud protection and Onlinesupportaccount opening Free financial experts & helpful resources 903.381.6500www.ecu.org THE LONGVIEW VOICE — September 2022
Page 11 SPORTS THE LONGVIEW VOICE — September 2022 Annual green-white game sees some hustle
LOBO UP
RATING |Continued from page 1 Campus Rating Bramlette B Bailey B Montessori Prep A Forest Park B Foster B Hudson A Everhart B Johnston-McQueen B Judson B Lead Academy A Longview High A Williams B Ware B
2-6 2. Gabbi Nguyen/Sydney Singh vs Alba Guitterrez/Adara Smithey: 2-6, 1-6 3. Sami Jata/Hannah Woolsey vs Lola Latham/Soba Keizer: 6-1, 6-0 4. Jasmine Perry/Omika Patel vs Brown/Graves: 5-8 MIXED DOUBLES 1. Jagger Barton/Phoebe Payne vs Chrun/Howard: 6-3, 7-6(5) 2. Cole Kitchens/Olivia Payne vs Deshong/Warren: 8-2 BOYS SINGLES 1. Erick Van Zyl vs Marcus Stencel: 4-0,2.4-1Luke Archer vs Jackson Caveness: 4-2,3.5-4(7)Daniel Pelaia vs Parker Durten: 5-3, 4-04. Jagger Barton vs Coleman Hallbau er: 4-1, 2-4, 11-9 5. Nate Roberts vs Alex Hayek: 4-0, 4-1 6. Alec Germanwala vs James How ard: 4-1, 5-4 (10-8) 7. Joey Hough vs Caden Deshong: 8-1 8. Aarush Srivastava vs DNP 9. Cole Kitchens vs Ethan Radcliff: 8-6 10. Mason Hodges vs Kevin Miner: 8-1 GIRLS SINGLES 1. Phoebe Payne vs Audrey Smith: 2-4, 2-42. Sydney Singh vs Collin Hallbauer: 1-4, 4-2, 13-11 3. Sami Jata vs Alba Guitterrez: 4-1, 4-14. Namita Reddy vs
Page 12 THE
We had a wonderful turn out at the community celebration/ pep rally for Longview’s AllStar World Series Bound team! We want to thank everyone who showed support for this team and the amazing opportunity ahead of them!Thank you to everyone who participated in the pep ral ly; Longview Lobo Cheer , Longview Lobo Baseball , Nona Snoddy , DJ Frazier , Kona Ice of Longview and Longview Viewettes & Viewette Legacies Thank you to our sponsors of the celebration and their amazing vendor tables that kept everyone feed and cool with drinks/fans. Thank you Christus Good Shepherd Health System , Longview Regional Medical Center , Diagnostic Clinic of Longview , Excel ER , and Dick’s Sporting Goods
LONGVIEW VOICE — September 2022 Lobo tennis has started their season strong with their defeat of Rockwall High, 13-6, putting them at 3-0 at the start. After a strong start, Lobos fell to Corsicana with 8-11, then lost to Frisco Reedy, but followed it up with a win against Frisco High. Sadly, the Lobo team then lost against Lindale. Standouts after the first three matchups so far have been Senior, Erick Vaz Zyl, who was 6-0 on the year. Also the following players went 5-1: 9th Grade — Hannah Woolsey 10th Grade — Sami Jata 11th Grade — Alec Germanwala 11th Grade — Daniel Pelaia The results of the Rockwall game are as follows: BOYS DOUBLES 1. Erick Van Zyl/Luke Archer vs Mar cus Stencel/Jackson Caveness: 6-2, 6-3 2. Alec Germanwala/Daniel Pelaia vs Parker Durten/Coleman Hallbauer: 3-6, 6-3,3.8-10Nate Roberts/Aarush Srivastava vs Brody Malone/Alex Hayek: 2-6, 6-3, 8-10 4. Joey Hough/Mason Hodges vs Rad cliff/Miner: 8-3 GIRLS DOUBLES 1. Namita Reddy/Siri Undavalli vs Audrey Smith/Collin Hallbauer: 5-7, Adara Smithey: 4-2,5.4-2Hannah Woolsey vs Reaksar Chrup: 4-1, 3-5, 10-6 6. Siri Undavalli vs Lola Latham: 2-4, 2-47. Gabbi Nguyen vs Callie Warren: 8-9(7)8.Olivia Payne vs Soba Keizer: 8-5 9. Jasmine Perry vs Claire Bowmen: 0-810. Omika Patel vs Ellie Chaves: 4-8
A total of 1,195 districts and 8,451 campuses were rated this year, with re turns showing promising signs of prog ress in Texas’s efforts to catch students up academically. Driven by significant gains in student academic growth, 2022 saw 25% of districts and 33% of campuses improve their letter grade from 2019. 18% of high-poverty campuses in Texas were rated an A, continuing to prove that demo graphics do not equal destiny.
“These results show our state’s signif icant investment in the post-pandemic academic recovery of Texas public school students is bearing fruit,” said Texas Education Commissioner, Mike Morath. “I’m grateful for the driving force behind this year’s success: our teachers and local school leaders. Statewide policy in Texas continues to remain focused on meeting the needs of students, with an accountabil ity system that supports high expectations, robust tutoring supports, rigorous curricu lar resources, and an investment in evi dence-based training for our teachers.” Established by House Bill 22 during the 85th Texas Legislature, the A–F account ability system provides educators, parents, and communities with a transparent view of the academic performance of Texas public schools based on three domains: Student Achievement, School Progress, and Closing the Gaps. This year, to align with Senate Bill 1365, districts and cam puses received an A, B or C rating or were assigned a label of Not Rated: Senate Bill 1365, both overall and in each domain. This Not Rated: Senate Bill 1365 label was applied when the domain or overall scaled score for a district or campus was less than 70.
tennis
Community shows support for baseball team years of COVID-related pauses.
Lobo starts season with strong serve
Page 13 CHOOSE R LONGVIEW SCHOOL APPLY NOW ChooseLISD.org THE LONGVIEW VOICE — September 2022
Dr. GuidryWayne , As sistant can,nessdistrict’sipatewhostaffexplainedofperintendentSuFinance,thatmembersparticinthewellprogramineffect“earn”
HOCKENBERRYWILCOX
In accordance with state law, the tax rate ultimately adopted at this meeting may not exceed the proposed rate, unless the district publishes a revised notice containing the same information and com parisons, in addition to hold ing another public meeting to discuss the revised notice.
Trustees raise minimum wage for hourly staff
Dr. Hockenberry said, prior to the measure, the district’s pay scale was “already among the highest in our region, and this new compensation struc ture ensures that Longview ISD remains a ‘destination district’ for the best of the best in East Texas.” DAYS OFF Board members approved an amendment to Board Pol icy DEC (LOCAL) allowing employees the ability to earn a local paid day off each se mester in accordance with the District’s Health and Wellness guidelines.
extra paid daysBackoff.in April the board ap proved partnering with Virgin Pulse to provide a wellness support system for Longview ISD employees. Beginning with the 2022-23 school year, the Longview ISD Wellness Program’s mission is to pro mote and improve employee wellness and reduce health risks through education and wellness activities, goal set ting and outreach events.
The Longview ISD Board of Trustees approved setting the minimum wage for hourly em ployees at $15 per hour during their July 11 regular meeting. As a result of this new minimum, hourly wages for Longview ISD staff will be adjusted district-wide for all hourly workers. Dr. ryHockenberJames , willadjustmentsandbepositionsallexplainedtrictdentSuperintenAssistantofDisServices,thathourlywillreviewed,“equitybeapplied as necessary or as “Theseneeded.”adjustments are being put in place to recognize the value of all our employees, each and every one of them has a profound impact on student learning in their own way,” he said. “We know the cost of living is increasing, yet we also see the importance of their service and the positive impact they have on all of us, especially the children in our care.”Dr. Hockenberry said the exact costs for the measure are still being worked out, but he expects the increase to be “somewhere in the neighbor hood of “Hourly$650,000.”employees will see the difference reflected in the September paychecks,” he added.Funding for the pay raise will come from the district’s general tendentSuperinbudget.
Page 14 THE LONGVIEW VOICE — September 2022
“We’re excited to work with a company like Virgin Pulse to help deliver a total health and wellbeing solution for our employees that drives sus tainable, long-term behavior change and in building a cul ture of health and fitness at Longview ISD,” he said.
DONATIONS Board members approved: a donation of $1,000,000 from Keith and Leslie Nance . This donation will be used in the General Fund Balance; a donation of $9,450 from mon ey collected from students for damaged or lost Chromebooks. This donation will be used to repair or replace the damaged devices; a donation of $5,000 from LHS Lobo Tennis Booster Club to offset travel expenses for the tennis teams; a donation of $3,470 from the LHS UIL Film Club for the purchase of a MacBook Pro to use in student productions; a donation of $1,240 from Foster Middle School Athletics Booster Club to purchase new football uniforms; a do nation of $400 from E. Well Educational Services to pro vide student scholarships for the Veterinary Medicine/ Sciences Summer Camp ; a donation of $150 from the Longview Animal Health & Hospital to provide student scholarships for the Veteri nary Medicine/Sciences Sum mer Camp; a donation of $150 from Austin Bank for Judson Middle School teacher Ms. Amy Bruyere’s review cycle classroom incentives; and a donation of $50 from Parents of Student Ambassadors for the Student Ambassador fund at Foster Middle School. OTHER BUSINESS During the course of the meeting, the LISD Board of Trustees also: APPROVED Instructional Materials Allotment (IMA) and Texas Essential Knowledge and Skills (TEKS) Certification for 2022-23; APPROVED the Minutes and Board Time Use Tracker for the June 6 Regular Meeting and June 20 Special Meeting; APPROVED naming Mrs. Ginia Northcutt as TASB Del egate and Mrs. Shan Bauer as alternate to the State Conven tion; APPROVED the Student Code of Conduct for the 202223 School Year; APPROVED the 2021-22 3rd Quarter Investment Re port; RECEIVED the financial report for May 2022; APPROVED Budget Amendment No. 10; and
Dr. Guidry said the goal of the LISD wellness program is to “engage and empower all individuals to strengthen and maintain their health to en hance their quality of life.”
Local residents are invited to attend and share comments on the proposed budget and tax rate for the coming fiscal year. For questions about the budget and proposed tax rate please contact the district at ask@LISD.org or call 903381-2200.
The board also approved setting a meeting and public hearing for 12 p.m. Aug. 31 to discuss, consider, and possibly approve the proposed 2022-23 budget and tax rate. While the district has re duced the LISD property tax rate for the last three fiscal years, property taxes may increase due to an increase in the value of the property, which is determined by the county appraisal district.
Dr. James Wil cox said this plan has been in the works for some time, as the thewardongoingresearchedistrationadminhastheuptrendsincostofliving and inflation. “We recognize the rise in costs has impacted us all, es pecially those staffers who are hourly, and this is one way in which we recognize the finan cial impact the current eco nomic climate is having on our hourly staff,” said Superinten dent Dr. James Wilcox. “Every single person who works for Longview ISD is vital to the educational success of the stu dents in our care.” “Our hope in raising the minimum wage, and the cu mulative effect it will have on our hourly staffers, demon strates that the board and administration truly cares about the financial difficulties many are facing during these challenging economic times,” he Theadded.board already approved salary increases for district teachers and salary staff during their May 9 regular meeting. Included in the pay bump is a signing bonus of $1,550 to returning employees on the teacher scale, which will be paid out in the Septem ber and December pay periods.
BOARD|Continued to page 15 GUIDRY
Funding for the Virgin Pulse system will come from the ESSER III grant program, authorized by the American Rescue Plan Act (ARP) signed into law in March 2021. 2022-23 BUDGET
With the 2022-23 school year now underway Longview ISD reminds our community to please help keep students and staff members safe while on the road.“This includes slowing down in school zones, staying off cell phones, and being aware at all times while around school buses,” said Mr. Darryl Dans, LISD Transportation Director.
“The beginning of a new school year should be a fun and excit ing time for our students, staff, and families. It takes all of us being aware and vigilant to keep our children safe.” Director Steven McCraw, Texas Department of Public Safety, issued a statement on Aug. 9 urging drivers across the state to “do their part” to ensure student and school bus safety.
Join Girl Scouts at our Meet & Greet September 13, 2022
6pm-7:30pm Come & Go Event 2500 McCann Rd Longview, TX 75605
the opportunity to lead Ned E. Williams to a new level of suc cess. Some of my goals for the upcoming year are to encour age stronger community rela tionships, increase parental in volvement, and for all students and all staff to excel and reach miles beyond their potential in all areas of their lives,” Ms. Dunlap said. “I have always taught my children to shoot for the moon and know that they will always land upon a star. No star is too far! We will soar beyond…with Mustang pride! I am looking forward to an amazing year!”
DUNLAP |Continued from page 3
“According to Texas law, if a bus has alternating flashing red signals visible from the front or rear, drivers MUST stop before reaching the bus,” he said. “Drivers can only pro ceed if the flashing lights are no longer activated, the driver signals you to proceed or the bus has resumed driving. Ap proaching drivers do NOT have to stop for a school bus that is operating a visual signal if the road is separated by a physical barrier or an intervening space. If a highway is only divided by a left-turn lane, it is not consid ered divided and drivers must stop for school buses.” The DPS offers the follow ing tips for school safety:
• Reduce speed when you spot a school bus and know children may un expectedly step into the road without checking for oncoming traffic.
• Don’t block a crosswalk
• Always obey speed limits and traffic laws in school zones.
• Follow the directions of school crossing guards. Longview ISD Transporta tion is committed to providing safe, professional, and reliable transportation for students that meets all the requirements of the daily instructional program and extra-curricular activities. We see the school bus is an extension of the classroom, and an integral part of the education of all students within our school district.Safety is our number one priority and is a group effort. Students, parents, teachers, school administrators, and driv ers are all assigned responsibil ities. We value each and every student and will emphasize that by treating each student with dignity and respect. We are committed to pro viding safe, consistent, reliable transportation and will strive to continually upgrade our service to students and parents as it becomesLongviewpossible.ISDoffers bus service for all eligible student riders (K-12) for home-to-school and for school-to-home each day. There will be one arrival time during the morning and one dismissal time during the after noon for each nearTransportationcampus.islocatedtheLISDEducationSup
Longview ISD Board of Trustees please go to
career at Ware Elementary School teaching Read 180 and ELA for third, fourth and fifth grade. Five years in, I became the campus Literacy Coach,” Ms. Dunlap said. After eight years at Ware, she then moved on to work eight years at Hudson PEP Elementary, where she taught 4th and 5th grade. In 2018, she moved to Ned E. Williams as the Curricular Program Spe cialist. That has led to now, with her leading the campus named after her great-great grandfather.“Iamgrateful to be given
• Drivers who illegally pass a school bus face fines up to $1,250 for the first offense. For people con victed of the offense more than once, the law allows for the person’s driver li cense to be suspended for up to six months. A ticket for this offense cannot be dismissed through de fensive driving. Criminal charges are possible if a driver causes someone serious bodily injury.
District reminds drivers of ‘rules of the road’
• Give students extra room and don’t assume they are paying attention to traffic. Students are frequently distracted by mobile devices or listen ing on electronic devices and may not be paying attention to their sur roundings.
You're Invited!
Page 15THE LONGVIEW VOICE — September 2022 BOARD |Continued from page 14
• Remember, texting while driving is illegal in Texas.
APPROVED Board Policy Update 119. FOR MORE INFO Trustees usually meet in the board room 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
• Be careful around rail road crossings. School buses are legally required to stop at them.
New friends. Exciting adventures. Making a difference. All in a place where you belong. Become a Girl Scout and jump-start your experience this summer. Questions? Join gsnetx.org/joinToday! su369girlscouts@gmail.com or call (903) 740-2030
Read more about this story on Page 19 LISD
Two of the six Special Education buses have been taken off the road and have been replaced with two new models. The older ones, 2011 and 2012, each had over 200,000 miles on them. Due to the wear and tear, the buses have seen a lot of time off the road and in the garage. This year alone, they had spent weeks in the garage.Thanks to the new buses being 2023 models, they will be spending more time on the road and less in the garage which will help the district to spend less money and keep the students safe. Read more about this story on Page 4 Whew! That might seem like a lot, but it’s actually just a quick sampling of the many great things happening here. Longview ISD continues to be the best school district east of Interstate 45, and it’s all because of our people: our students, our staff, our parents, and our many communi ty Thankpartners.you all for letting me be just a small part of such an amazing district, and my prayers are with you all for another fantastic school year! It’s a great time to be a Lobo!
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On Wednesday, June 22 Longview ISD agreed to purchase 62 acres of land from local residents Keith and Leslie Nance for a total of $5,634,997. In addi tion, The Nance family will be donating $1,000,000 back to the district. Property in that area is extremely valuable due to the considerable de velopment already occurring, such as Christus Hospital’s $30 million expan sion and the extension project from Fourth Street. Had a local developer bought the property, they would have paid a much higher price than Longview ISD did. The purchase will be paid from the General Operating Fund Balance. The land, which is located north of the high school baseball and soccer fields on Hawkins Pkwy, shall be used for the future building needs of the district.
Read more about this story on Page 19
WILCOX
Dr. Wayne Guidry, Assistant Superin tendent of Finance, explained that staff members who participate in the district’s wellness program can, in effect “earn” extra paid days off. Back in April the board approved partnering with Virgin Pulse to provide a wellness support system for Longview ISD employees. Beginning with the 202223 school year, the Longview ISD Well ness Program’s mission is to promote and improve employee wellness and reduce health risks through education and well ness activities, goal setting, and outreach events.Dr.Guidry said the goal of the LISD wellness program is to “engage and em power all individuals to strengthen and maintain their health to enhance their quality of life.”
Page 16 THE LONGVIEW VOICE — September 2022 or life-threatening conditions that force them to exhaust paid leave and would otherwise result in a loss of income.”
Read more about this story on Page 14
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TWO BUSES REPLACED
PARTNERSHIPHELPSSAVE
PAY RAISE FOR HOURLY STAFF
LISD is widely recognized as one of the most innovative school districts in the state. |Continued from page 2 the crew work too. They work very hard but people don’t get to see them, so they deserve a lot of credit too for helping to make the play so wonderful.” For Joseph, being on the stage is a passion. He hopes to perform again at the festival or any other opportunity that might arise. After practicing for over a month and putting on nine performances that were two-and-a-half hours long, Joseph walked away with numerous memories that he shall cherish forever. “A couple of times during performances, some thing unexpected would happen, and then we would have to improv until the moment passed, to make it seem like that was supposed to hap pen. Sometimes the audience wouldn’t suspect a thing! After our first performance, there was what they call a ‘Talk Back’ session, where the audi ence can stay and ask the cast and crew anything they want,” Joseph stated. “An audience member asked if Marian’s book cart was really supposed to fall over, because they said it looked so natural that while they thought it was probably not sup posed to happen, they couldn’t tell for sure. That’s how good the actors were, they made the accident look planned!”
“These adjustments are being put in place to recognize the value of all our em ployees, each and every one of them has a profound impact on student learning in their own way,” he said. “We know the cost of living is increasing, yet we also see the importance of their service and the positive impact they have on all of us, especially the children in our care.”
62PURCHASESACRES
Read more about this story on Page 14 DAYS OFF FOR GOOD HABITS Board members approved an amend ment to Board Policy DEC (LOCAL) allowing employees the ability to earn a local paid day off each semester in ac cordance with the District’s Health and Wellness guidelines.
“The sick leave bank is a collective deposit of leave days received from enrolling employ ees and subsequent contributions from mem bers,” he said. “Participation in the district sick leave bank is voluntary.”
Thanks to a partnership with Ideal Im pact, the district has implemented a vari ety of steps to help improve energy costs throughout Longview ISD campuses and facilities.FromJune 2021 to February 2022, the district has saved $158,470.24 in electric ity costs and $16,938.27 in gas from the high school and ESC. These two campus es alone have saved the district a total of $175,408.51 in under 12 months. For the entire district, $208,667 has been saved in the 10-month period. “The district is saving money through proper HVAC scheduling. The steps that led to the savings were the installation of new thermostats and other controls (for exhaust fans, lighting, etc.) and then the ability to schedule them through our scheduling software based on calendaring,” said Mr. Michael Johnson, project manager at Ideal Impact. Read more about this story on Page 4
— Dr. James Wilcox has served as Superintendent of Schools for Longview ISD since 2007. During his tenure, student enrollment and test scores have continued an upward trend, while the district has continued to expand its academic and extracurricular offerings.
The board approved setting the mini mum wage for hourly employees at $15 per hour during their July 11 regular meeting.Asaresult of this new minimum, hourly wages for Longview ISD staff will be adjusted district-wide for all hourly workers.Dr.James Hockenberry, Assistant Superintendent of District Services, ex plained that all hourly positions will be reviewed, and “equity adjustments will be applied as necessary or as needed.”
LISD Board meeting set for September 19
PUBLIC NOTICES
THE LONGVIEW VOICE — September 2022
NOTICE OF SALE
“We’re really thankful to Ms. Vermillion, Ms. Mercer, and Ms. Jester for their support in helping him discover and develop his talents, and to the Texas Shakespeare Festival for the amazing opportunity and experience!”“TheMusic Man” is a sto ry about a conman who poses as a boys’ band organizer and sells band instruments and uniforms to naive townsfolk, promising to train the mem bers of the new band. As the con goes on, he begins to fall in love.To learn more about the Texas Shakespeare Festival, go to texasshakespeare.com.
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“Overall I feel like Joseph had an amazing time doing the play. He loved getting to meet so many new talented people from all over, both actors and crew, who enjoyed working in theater just like him,” his mother, Tracy Kaan said. “Joseph was also excited to get to be in a play with Nathan Bachtell again, who he met at Longview High School when they were both in Shrek The Musical. Of course the rehearsal schedule was tiring sometimes, as rehears als would last anywhere from two to four hours, and some days when the performanc es got closer, they’d do three hours with a lunch break and then another 4 hour rehearsal, but he would come home say ing that he’d had fun.
Trustees usually meet in the boardroom of the LISD Educa tion Support Center, but often set special-called meetings at various locations around the district. The next regular meeting is tentatively scheduled for 6 p.m. on Monday, September 19. For more information about the Longview ISD Board of Trustees go to LISD.org
With his grandfather and father having performed in numerous productions, Joseph seems to have caught the act ing bug through his genetics. At the end of the day, whatever the reason why, Joseph seems to really enjoy acting.
Longview High School Class of 1972 Reunion
The Longview High School graduation class of 1972 is holding their 50 year reunion this year. It is set for October 6-9. The price is $125 per person, regardless of how many days are attended. There is an additional cost for the football game and golf. On Friday, Oct. 7, the Lobo football team will be playing against Forney in a home game. Tickets cost $8, with the class reunion sitting together. The game starts at 7:30 p.m. On Saturday, Oct. 8, there will be a Billy Writt and Henry Salmon Memorial Golf Tournament at the Wood Hollow Golf Club. The cost of entry is $50. Later in the day will be the LHS 1972 Class Music Trivia in the Bugatti Room at the Holiday Inn. Marty Baumgardner is hosting and sponsoring the event. Study up on the music from the ’60s including all genres. That night, the reunion dinner and dance will take place in the Bugatti room. There will be a class photo, plated dinner, guests will be recognized, awards will be given out, and statistics about the reunion. Sunday morning, Oct. 9, there will be a reunion breakfast. For more information, contact Jim Bob Rollins at 936-414-1700 or email him at rollinsj@consolidated.net. You can also go to www.lobos72.org or Longview High School – Class of ‘72 on Facebook.
STATE OF TEXAS BY VIRTUE OF AN ORDER SALE GREGG COUNTY DATED JULY 29, 2022 and issued pursuant to judgment decree(s) of the County Court At Law of Gregg County, Texas, by the Clerk of said Court on said date, in the hereinafter numbered and styled suit(s) and to me directed and delivered as Sheriff or Constable of said County, I have on July 29, 2022 seized, levied upon, and will, on the first Tuesday in September, 2022, the same being the 6th day of said month, at the South Steps, 101 East Methvin of the Courthouse of the said County, in the City of Longview, Texas, between the hours of 10 o’clock a.m. and 4 o’clock p.m. on said day, beginning at 10:00 AM, proceed to sell for cash to the highest bidder all the right, title, and interest of the defendants in such suit(s) in and to the following described real estate levied upon as the property of said defendants, the same lying and being situated in the County of Gregg and the State of Texas, to-wit: 1 — 02 I617-CCL2, Account No. 43555, LONGV lEW INDEPENDENT SCHOOL DISTRICT, ET AL VS. SIMONA BUSH, ET AL; TRACT 5: LT I BLK 767 FOX #I; 2 — 021617-CCL2, Account No. 51629, LONGVJEW INDEPENDENT SCHOOL DISTRICT, ET AL VS. SIMONA BUSH, ET AL; TRACT 6: LT 11 BLK 2 (NCB 429) LAKEVIEW & LT 12 (S 15’ LT 12) BLK 2 (NCB 426) ROGERS; 3 — 021617-CCL2, Account No. 55627, LONGVTEW INDEPENDENT SCHOOL DISTRICT, ET AL VS. SIMONA BUSH, ET AL; TRACT 8: LT 29 BLK 1331 MOCKING BIRD HILL; 4 — 02I 617-CCL2, Account No. 22168, LONGVIEW INDEPENDENT SCHOOL DISTRICT, ET AL VS. SIMONA BUSH, ET AL; TRACT 9: AB 123 J LOUT SUR TR 11 SEC 2; 5 — 022010-CCL2, Account No. 59781, KILGORE INDEPENDENT SCHOOL DISTRICT, ET AL VS. VERNON WOODS, ET AL; LT 7 BLK 13 PENTECOST; 6 — 022020CCL2, Account No. 53354, LONGVJEW INDEPEN DENT SCHOOL DISTRJCT, ET AL VS. ALBERT B VENTERS, ET AL; LT 17 BLK 644 LONE CEDAR; 7 — 022095-CCL2, Account No. 29520, KILGORE INDEPENDENT SCHOOL DISTRICT, ET AL VS. DONNA SMITH, ET AL; AB 208 M VAN WJNKLE SUR TR 64 SEC 1; 8 — 022417-CCL2, Account No. 54892, LONGVIEW INDEPENDENT SCHOOL DIS TRICT, ET AL VS.RP JACKSON, ET AL; LT 4 BLK 7 (NCB 177) MELTON The following property has been struck-off at previous tax sale and is now being offered for resale: (9.) 020986-CCL2, Account No. 33650; LONGV LEW INDEPENDENT SCHOOL DISTRICT, ET AL VS. JIMMY LEE MAYFIELD, ET AL (TAX SALE HELD NOV 7 20 I7); LOT (8) EIGHT, NEW CITY BLOCK 124, LONGVIEW, A TRACT OF LAND JN THE ALEXANDER JORDAN SURVEY, SAME BE ING SITUATED IN LONGVIEW, GREGG COUNTY, TEXAS, ABOUT (1/4) ONE FOURTH MILE SOUTH EAST OF LONGVIEW JUNCTION (SAME BEING THE BEND OF METJNJN STREET AND SIXTH STREET), AND LOCATED ON EAST COTTON STREET, CONTAlNING ONE HALF ACRE OF LAND, BEING THE SAME DESCRIBED lN DEED FROM D. S. MEREDITH, RECEIVER., TO ALLEN CARR, RECORDED IN VOLUME 53, PAGES 631-632 OF THE DEED RECORDS OF GREGG COUNTY, TEXAS; SAVE AND EXCEPT: ALL THAT CERTAIN 472.0 SQUARE FOOT LOT, TRACT, OR PARCEL OF LAND SITUATED IN THE A. JORDAN SURVEY, A-262, CITY OF LONGVIEW, GREGG COUNTY, TEXAS, BEING PART OF THE JIMMY LEE MAY FIBLD TRACT CALLED “R33650” AND LOT 8 NCB 124, AND “0Q00000124-0080-00-02” BY THEGREUG COUNTY APPRA!SAL DIS’l’RICT (A STRIP OV LAND CALLED 47.3 FEET BY 6.S FEET BY 47.2 FEET BY 3.5 FEET) OFF THE SOUTH END OF A PREVIOUS VERSION OF “R33650” WAS CON VEYED TO THE CITY OF LONGVIEW BY DEED RECORDED TN VOLUME 1082 PAGE 440, DEED RECORDS OF GREGG COUNTY, TEXAS. (any volume and page references, unless oth erwise indicated, being to the Deed Records, Gregg County, Texas, to which instruments reference may be made for a more complete description of each respective tract.) or, upon the written request of said defendants or their attorney, a sufficient portion of the property described above shall be sold to satisfy said judgment(s), interest, penalties, and cost; and any property sold shall be subject to the right of redemption of the defendants or any person having an interest therein, to redeem the said property, or their interest therein, within the time and in the manner provided by law, and shall be subject to any other and further rights to which the defendants or anyone interested therein may be entitled, under the provisions of law. Said sale to be made by me to sat isfy the judgment(s) rendered in the above styled and numbered cause(s), together with interest, penalties, and costs of suit, and the proceeds of said sales to be applied to the satisfaction thereof, and the remain der, if any, to be applied as the law directs. Dated at Longview, Texas, July 29, 2022 Notes: The Minimum Bid is the less er of the amount awarded in the judgment plus interest and costs or the adjudged value. However, the Minimum Bid for a person owning an interest in the property or for a per son who is a party to the suit (other than a taxing unit), is the aggregate amount of the judgments against the property plus all costs of suit and sale. ALL SALES SUBJECT TO CANCELLATION WITHOUT PRIOR NOTICE. THERE MAY BE ADDITIONAL TAXES DUE ON THE PROPERTY WHICH HAVE BEEN ASSESSED SINCE THE DATE OF THE JUDGMENT. For more in formation, contact your attorney or LINEBARGER GOGGAN BLAIR & SAMPSON, LLP., attorney for plain tiffs, at (903) 757-5448
Page 18 SPOTTED ON SOCIAL THE LONGVIEW VOICE — September 2022
Dr. GuidryWayne , As sistant possiblyconsider,2512willpublicaFinanceintendentSuperofsaidmeetingandhearingbeheldatp.m.onAug.todiscuss,andapprove
Later, trustees unanimously approved amending local board policy to create a “Sick Leave Bank” for district employees that have exhausted their regular paid daysPresentedoff. to the board by Dr. James Hocken berry, Assistant Su perintendent of District Services, the purpose of this bank “is a benefit to assist employees in dealing with prolonged, severe, or life-threaten ing conditions that force them to exhaust paid leave and would otherwise result in a loss of income.”
“The sick leave bank is a collec tive deposit of leave days received from enrolling employees and subsequent contributions from members,” he said. “Participation in the district sick leave bank is voluntary.”Dr.Hockenberry explained that to become a member of the sick leave bank an employee must contribute one leave day per school year of participation. The sick leave bank will have an open enrollment period each year at a set“Alldate.existing employees are required to complete a sick leave bank enrollment form annually with their election for partici pation during the current open enrollment period,” he said. “New employees hired during the open enrollment period will be eligible to enroll in the sick leave bank for the current year.” Days deposited in the bank become the property of the sick leave bank and are no longer available for use by the individual employee as accrued leave. Upon retirement, an employee may donate any uncompensated leave days to the sick leave bank.
Page 19THE LONGVIEW VOICE — September 2022
During the Superintendent’s Report portion of the meeting, Dr. Wilcox presented the Resilient Schools Support Program (RSSP) Learning Acceleration Plan to trustees. The program was created through federal COVID-19 relief funds by the Texas Education Agency (TEA) to offer school dis tricts new resources to build resil ience in their school communities amid the COVID-19 pandemic. Other items in his report in cluded campus safety and security for the coming year, the district offering free meals for students, as well as various updates from the Office of Innovation and the district’s public school charter partners.Dr.Wilcox also discussed the federal funding shortfall of the Individuals with Disabilities Act. The 2020-21 school year saw a federal funding shortfall of 23.6 billion dollars, requiring states and districts to fund that imbal ance.
Local stakeholders are invited to attend and share comments on the proposed budget and tax rate for the coming fiscal year. For questions about the bud get and proposed tax rate please contact the district at ask@LISD. org or call 903-381-2200 ‘SICK LEAVE BANK’
“There are also times where a se rious health emergency, whether for them or an immediate family member, requires an employee to miss more days than they have accrued.”Dr.Hockenberry said more details about the pro gram will be provided in the coming days, both via direct email as well as posted to the Busi ness Office section of Longview ISD website. “At the end of the day, we want our em ployees to know that they are cared for and that their peers are willing to help them in times of personal crisis,” he added. For more info please contact the LISD Business Office at 903381-2200 LAND ACQUISITION Dr. Wilcox also shared some of the factors that went into consid eration before the district pur chased 62 acres of land located north of the high school baseball and soccer fields on Hawkins Pkwy at a June 22 special meet ing.Longview ISD paid local res idents Mr. and Mrs. Keith and Leslie Nance a total of $5,634,997 for the property, who then donated $1,000,000 back to theDr.district.Wilcox explained that prop erty in that area is “extremely valuable due to the considerable development already occurring,” such as Christus Hospital’s $30 million expansion and the exten sion project from Fourth Street. “If you look at other property acquisitions in that area you will find a rather large difference between the quote-unquote ‘prop erty value’ and what it actually sold for,” he said. “Timber and agriculture use values are always lower than most other values. The timber exemption is what the owner paid in taxes, but the use of the land now changes.” Had a local developer bought the property, Dr. Wilcox added, “they would have paid a much higher price than Longview ISD did.”“The bottom line is that Longview ISD board and admin istration made a wise decision to purchase this property at a fair market price, which also hap pened to be less than previous purchases per acre on other prop erties,” he said. “Our view is that the acquisition of this property will prove to be an exceedingly beneficial investment for the stu dents, employees, and community of Longview ISD.”
WILCOXHOCKENBERRYGUIDRY
SUPT’S REPORT
“We have employees who are fortunate enough to never have to take a day off, but the unexpected can happen to anyone,” he said.
Trustees also held a public hearing over the district’s Ele mentary and Secondary School Emergency Relief (ESSER) III Use of Funds Plan and a sepa rate hearing on the Return to In-Person Instruction and Conti nuity of Services (RIPICS) Plan for the 2022-23 school year. No residents spoke up in favor or opposition to either item. The American Rescue Plan Act ESSER III grant program was signed into law in March 2021. The period of availability for ESSER III grant funds is from March 13, 2020, to Septem ber 30, 2024 (with carryover).
While the district has reduced the LISD property tax rate for the last three fiscal years, the amount of property taxes collected may increase due to a rise in the value of the property, which is deter mined by the county appraisal district.Inaccordance with state law, the tax rate ultimately adopted at this meeting may not exceed the proposed rate, unless the district publishes a revised notice containing the same information and comparisons, in addition to holding another public meeting to discuss the revised notice.
IN OTHER BUSINESS During the course of the meeting, the LISD Board of TrusteesENDORSEDalso: Region VII Candidate Mr. Tony Raymond of Sabine ISD to fill a current position on the TASB Board of Directors; APPROVED Out-of-State Trip to Orlando, Florida for the Longview High School Viewettes; APPROVED Minutes and Board Time Use Tracker for the July 11 Reg ular Meeting; APPROVED amending Board Policy DEC (LOCAL), BQA (LOCAL), BQB (LOCAL); APPROVED Dis trictwide T-TESS Appraisers and the 2022-23 Appraisal Calendar; APPROVED re newal of Facility Use Contract with Child Evangelism Fellow ship; APPROVED increasing breakfast/lunch rates for stu dents and adults; APPROVED Teacher Waivers for the 2022-23 School Year; RECEIVED Fi nancial Statements as of June 2022; APPROVED the Agreed Corrective Action Plan; AP PROVED Budget Amendment No. 11; and APPROVED the Teach Worthy Program.
$1.5130 from 2010 until 2019 — when the district reduced the rate to $1.4430 — and we’ve continued to reduce it each year since,” he said. “This illustrates how Longview ISD has worked to offset the sharp increase in prop erty tax valuations that are well beyond our control.”
BOARD |Continued from page 1
the proposed 2022-23 budget and tax rate. Superintendent Dr. James Wilcox talked to the board about the ratethemaintainedlystabletheafterlastratecuttinghistorydistrict’softhetaxoverthethreeyears,keepingsameratefornearadecade.“Theboardsametaxof
PUBLIC HEARINGS
Page 20 THE LONGVIEW VOICE — September 2022
