Volume VI, Issue 1 (January 1, 2021) by The Longview Voice

“To plant a garden is to believe in tomorrow.” ― Audrey Hepburn

Vol. VI January 2021

Sharing the good news about Longview Independent School District

MASTER GARDENER

Martha Hood brings horticulture experience to LISD

ith her officially joining Longview Independent School District in November, new Garden Manager Mrs. Martha Hood brings a lifetime of expertise to help make the district’s Child Nutrition garden even more amazing. Having grown up on a chemical-free farm in Louisiana, Mrs. Hood understands the value of completely organic vegetables. “It will take a lot of work, as we have a lot of clay soil to recondition, but within two years I hope to have a totally organic, no-till garden,” she said. From having relatives who own plant nurseries to having family members who work as farmers, Mrs. Hood has been a part of 4-H

HOOD

Garden|Continued to page 8

Looking back on some of the school district ’s accomplishments fr om 2020. See Opinion on Page 2

Hard working teachers earn more than $2.8 million in incentive pay at LISD! See Pay on Page 4

South Ward is a campus of excellence that employs IB and dual-language. See Campus Spotlight on Page 8

Students in Melissa Swallow’s class designs toys for childr en with cer ebral palsy. See Toys on Page 14

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THE LONGVIEW VOICE — January 2021

OPINION

Dr. Wilcox reflects on 2020, looks to 2021 impossible, seeing the By Dr. James Wilcox Superintendent of Schools moon up close and

Longview ISD’s very own Ali Worsham rebeing able to break it ceived the Instructionith the start of a New Year, down into its various al Technology SpecialI cannot help but look back layers, can all be done ist of the Year award on the previous year. There were with zSpace’s computon Feb. 4, during the so many amazing accomplishers combining elements annual Texas Comments by our students, staff, and of Augmented Reality puter Education Assothe entire district in 2020, I could (AR) and Virtual Reciation Conference in fill up an entire edition of The ality (VR) to create Austin. WILCOX Longview Voice. But in the lifelike experiences “I didn’t really think interest of time, I’ll just hit a few that are immersive and I would win, but it was of the highlights... interactive. an honor to be nominated,” While select districts across Worsham said. “It’s nice to be zSpace brings the United States have acrecognized for the work I’ve ‘virtual reality’ quired zSpace technology to done for the district.” The technology of the future some extent, Kevin DoughThe ITSY award honors is arriving at Longview ISD erty, zSpace Senior Director those who work in technolocampuses and training is alof Sales, said no school district gy planning and curriculum ready underway at Longview in the nation though has seen integration and recognizes High, South Ward, Ned E. as big of a rollout as Longview the significant contribution Williams, Hudson PEP, JudISD. these educators made toward son, and Foster. “The training that LISD successful technology use in Longview ISD students will schools. Worsham earned her be able to get a more hands-on teachers received is the first train-the-trainers seminar award for her work with her experience than would northat was district-specific,” he change to the PD delivery to mally be possible. Something Tech Fest. that might be cost-prohibitive, said. With the new format, it Worsham named such as taking apart a vehiwas made possible to secure a cle’s engine, to the downright ‘Tech of the Year’ day of training for each level:

elementary, middle, and high school, where the ITS staff offered numerous sessions for teachers to choose their own interest sessions throughout the day. “I was a struggling student and I like to create opportunities for our students,” Worsham said. “I really like the resources that LISD has to offer our students.”

Trustees approve new charter partners

Longview Independent School District board members agreed to enter a charter partnership with two non-profit organizations during a virtual meeting Monday, April 13th. Trustees authorized the administration to negotiate and sign performance contracts with Texas Council for International Studies (TCIS), and Longview Educates and Prospers (LEAP). LISD Chief Innovation 2020|Continued to page 6

Lessons to be learned from the year 2020 By Mayor Andy Mack

ear Lobos, What a year 2020 has been! I have heard many people use that expression with a sense of negativity. Admittedly, this has been a strange and interesting year, but despite all the changes, came many blessings as well. Let’s not lose sight of that. This time last year, you were probably making big plans for the year with goals and resolutions. I was too. We really didn’t have a clue of what was awaiting us in March 2020. All of those goals and ideals were quickly turned on their head as priorities were shifted due to COVID 19. I’m curious – had you known that COVID-19 was around the bend, would your goals and priorities have been different in January 2020? In my case, had I known how COVID-19 would be impacting us in early March, there are some definite things I would have done differently. Of course, at my surgery practice, I would have made some modifications to our patient rooms and scheduling. As for my personal life, I would have valued those times

I went out to eat (I we will do the same with but your reaction to others’ have not dined out at a the Coronavirus given choices. Are you tolerant of restaurant since March time. One of the things I others? Do you allow others to 9, 2020) with my friends have been most surprised make decisions on their own and family. I also would about, though, is the without criticizing? Do you feel have savored so many attitude of some people you are always right and there social outings and seeing who are critical of others is no room for discussion? These people’s smiles, which because of the choices questions have gone through my are now covered up by that they make. mind since this Pandemic has masks. There have been started and have caused me to MACK In spite of all that has many instances through- reflect inward. been thrown at us, I am out this Pandemic where I have learned through this thankful for many things this it has been left up to the individ- ordeal that the phrase “Live and year. I have enjoyed a slower ual to choose. Some have chosen Let Live” provides a lot of peace pace of life – as I am sure have to wear masks. Others have to me. When I do not adopt this many of you. I know that we not. Some have chosen to stay at philosophy in my life, I find that miss all the social gatherings home and limit social gatherings. I am more judgmental of others’ and parties – but those will be Others have not. Some have cho- actions without knowing all the happening again soon enough. sen to wash their hands. Others facts. A phrase my Dad drilled I have enjoyed much more inhave not. Some have chosen into us as children was: “Don’t tentional time with my family. to follow the rules and guidejudge a man until you have There is something to be said for lines set forth by the Governor walked in his shoes”. Think and family time when there are so of Texas with their businesses. reflect on that sentence. It is not many unknowns in the world. It Others have not. And some will our job to criticize the personal has really made me think about choose to take the vaccine as it is how blessed we are for every offered. Others will not. Regard- Mack|Continued to page 14 moment together. less, each individual has choices All in all, as I look back there is to make in life. As such, there a lot to be gained from this experi- are consequences. Not just with ence that this generation can say COVID-19, but with everything we went through that no generwe do and we say. That is really ation has been through since the where I want to focus the rest of polio outbreak. That generation this column. survived and essentially eradicatMore importantly, not the ed the polio virus and I am sure consequences of your actions,

THE LONGVIEW VOICE — January 2021

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C I N ASEYOU MIS SED I T Free Tutoring

The Longview Public Library has a new FREE service that could help your students. BrainFuse is an in-depth study and tutoring database that offers tons of learning resources for many subjects and all grade levels, kindergarten to adult continuing education! - Free virtual tutoring via chat room, 2 p.m. 11 p.m. - Homework and study help. - Writing/paper analysis. - Tons of learning resources for tests like the SAT, ASVAB, and more. - Flashcard aides. - Many other helpful learning tools! And this is all FREE to access with your library card! Head to the website and check it out today: https://longviewtexas.gov/2884/Databases-A-to-Z/ TASB video contest taking entries

Texas students are overcomers, learners, and achievers. Participate in TASB’s Student Video Contest and demonstrate how your school has learned and grown in the face of adversity this year. In each category (elementary, middle/junior, and high school), a first prize of $5,000 and a second prize of $2,500 will be awarded to the winning schools to be used in their classrooms. For more information: https://www.tasb.org/ services/communications-and-pr/student-video/ home.aspx

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!

Eastman Essay Contest deadline set

Eastman is proud to honor the traditions and contributions of Black/African American people to Science, Technology, Engineering, Arts, and Math (STEAM) in celebration of Black History Month. As part of that celebration, the company is sponsoring an oratorical contest. If you know a high-school student in the Longview or surrounding areas, please encourage them to submit an original 3-5-page written essay discussing an acknowledged Black/ African American STEAM contributor. Essays must be submitted by January 11, 2021. Students with the top 4 essays will be notified around February 1, 2021. Contest guidelines and submission forms are attached. For more information, contact txoconnect@east man.com

Welcome Back

Longview Independent School District would like to welcome back teachers, staff and students! Happy New Year! As we head into 2021, let us meet the new year with an exciting outlook. The school year is half way over and we cannot wait to see what awesome things our students do this semester. Go Lobos!

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THE LONGVIEW VOICE — January 2021

Teachers earn over $2.8M in incentive pay Longview ISD is awarding more than $2.8 million in incentive pay for achieving teachers, with a few of the very highest-performing teachers receiving more than $30,000 extra in their December paychecks! “We’re thrilled with the excellent progress all our teachers and staff are making with students across the entire district, despite unprecedented challenges to the delivery of instruction,” said Dr. James Wilcox, Superintendent of Schools. Dr. Wilcox said the goal of the district in starting the program was to maintain our most successful and effective teachers in the regular classroom. “We could not be more excited to see our teachers receive these dollar amounts,” he said. “But our students are the real winners!” Dr. James Hockenberry, LISD Assistant Superintendent of District Services, explained that the district utilizes LISD’s aggressive local pay structures as well as the Longview Incentive For Teachers (LIFT) program, and the Texas Education Agency’s Teacher Incentive Allotment (TIA) funding sources to make this possible for our hard-working education professionals. “The goal of the Teacher Incentive Allotment is to provide a realistic pathway to pay

outstanding teachers six-figure salaries,” he said. “As such, it will dramatically improve the recruitment and retention of highly effective teachers and keep them in the classroom at our most challenging campuses.” TIA/LIFT distribution came in “lump sum” disbursement beginning on Dec. 17th. Longview ISD was ahead of the curve back in 2011, when trustees voted to implement a performance pay system for middle school reading and math teachers. Designed to help close the achievement gap between low socio-economic and

middle-income students, today the LIFT Pay for Performance Program includes three award models and has proven instrumental in retaining high-quality educators. The temporary LIFT model calculations, due to the lack of STAAR testing during the spring semester of the 20192020 year (as a result of the ongoing COVID-19 pandemic), will follow the Texas Education Agency’s TIA formula using a combination of weighted 2017-2020 academic data to determine teacher “levels,” with award distinction funds

using a three-year average for the campuses and district for years 2017-2019 Designations. The designation award is determined by the employee’s place of employment at the conclusion of the 2019-2020 year. Incentive pay for Longview ISD teachers has increased dramatically since the $350,000 awarded in 2014-15, just five years ago. “Our district is one of leadership and innovation,” added Dr. Wilcox. “We don’t follow the trends in education, we set them.” Home to more than 8,000 students and 1,000 staff members, Longview ISD’s richly diverse student population reflects our wonderful city and the East Texas area in general. But our educational offerings are just as diverse as our people, including everything from magnet charter school STEAM campuses to project-based learning, career technology programs, and state-of-the-art facilities. Longview Independent School District is the only public school system in Texas that offers free Montessori education to all Head Start, Pre-K/Kindergarten students enrolled in the district, in addition to the world-renowned International Baccalaureate program offered free of charge at all district campuses.

A superhero at Judson, Kristina Stewart overcame cancer When you think of courage, who comes to your mind? A superhero, your favorite celebrity, or someone who has done the unthinkable. Here at Judson STEAM Academy, we have our own courageous superhero. Kristina Stewart is in her 7th year teaching in LISD. She faced the toughest battle of her life this year and has shown nothing but resilience and grace as she became a fighter in her own battle. She was diagnosed with high-risk stage 3 breast cancer and lymph node cancer. While most would give

up, this was not an option for Kristina. She decided that this would be a fight and she would fight doing what she loved: teachSTEWART ing. Kristina showed up the first day with a huge smile on her face and the determination to beat this cancer. Kristina has finished her chemotherapy and rang the bell as of November

20th and will begin her radiation therapy in the near future. She will undergo surgery over the Christmas holiday and will be back to continue her fight when school returns in January. Kristina Stewart always has a smile on her face and has since she was very young. She grew up all over the world including: Mississippi, Colorado, and even Italy. She graduated from the University of Tyler in 2014 with a bachelor’s degree in Interdisciplinary Studies. She has worked for Ore City ISD, New Diana ISD, Sabine ISD,

and Longview ISD. She has taught Pre-K, Kindergarten, 1-3 Grade, 6th Grade, and Read 180. In her free time she enjoys running with her daughter, Kaitlin Stewart, and hopes to be back running for a marathon she has planned in May 2021. Kristina Stewart is an inspiration to us all here at Judson STEAM Academy. With her positive attitude and outlook on life, she has shown us all that no matter what the obstacle we have facing us, with a smile on our face, we can accomplish anything.

THANK YOU THE LONGVIEW VOICE — January 2021

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During this difficult time for our community, we are so thankful for the many local doctors, nurses and staff who are continuing their work to keep the people of Longview healthy. Longview ISD is glad to say ‘Thank You’ for being such wonderful community partners!

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Ancor Health Center

Azalea Orthopedics

818 Fourth St 903-236-8600

925 W Loop 281 903-939-7500

Baylor Scott & White Texas Spine & Joint

Brenda Copeland DDS

725 Fourth St 903-758-8754 723 Fourth St 903-753-7515

5 Brookridge Internal Medicine 300 N Third St 903-315-2907

6 CHRISTUS Good Shepherd

700 E Marshall Ave 903-315-2000

7 CHRISTUS Trinity OB/GYN

323 E Hawkins Pkwy 903-315-5733

Dental Health Center

Diagnostic Clinic of Longview OB/GYN

503 N Sixth St 903-753-7685

709 Hollybrook Dr 903-757-6042

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Did we miss your practice? Send your business name, address and phone number to ask@ LISD.org.

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COMMUNITY PARTNERS

East Texas Oral & Maxillofacial Surgery

Fetal Care Center

Longview Orthopaedic 20 Clinic

3004 HG Mosley Pkwy 903-758-3444 1009 Fourth St 972-566-5600

Fields Chiropractic First Choice Pediatrics

1009 Fourth St 903-212-4330

13 1205 N Sixth 903-230-0235

HealthCARE Express Urgent Care

1509 W Loop 281 903-759-9355

15 Jim Meyer Memorial Clinic 410 Fourth St 903-234-8808

Longview Chiropractic 16 Center 300 E Loop 281 903-234-2225

Longview Dental Care

2200 Horseshoe Ln 903-753-3673

3202 N Fourth St 903-757-0577

323 E Hawkins Pkwy 903-758-2746

2143 Gilmer Rd 903-234-2886

Longview Occupational Medicine Clinic

Longview Eye Associates

1821 Judson Rd 903-758-8832

700 E Marshall Ave 903-315-1100

29 Special Health Resources 410 Fourth St 903-234-8808

Texas Oncology-Longview Cancer Center

Texas Sedation Dental & Implant Center

Wellness Pointe

25 Northeast Texas Family Medicine

Woman & Child Health Center of Longview

26 Northcutt Chiropractic Clinic

Vaca & Kirby Dental

Vision Source Longview

Zeid Women’s Health

Longview Pediatrics

28 Select Specialty Hospital

Longview Regional

2901 N Fourth St 903-758-1818 Longview VA Clinic 23 1005 N Eastman Rd 903-247-8262

Mack Dental

3008 HG Mosley Pkwy 903-236-4050

800 Padon St 903-315-5600

1201 N Sixth St 903-236-3202

27 QuickCare by Regional Clinics 2021 W Loop 281 903-295-1396

1300 Fourth St 903-757-2122

444 Forest Square 903-704-0154

1107 E Marshall Ave 903-758-2610

402 N Seventh St 903-212-7110

3121 HG Mosley Pkwy 903-206-3464 2304 Judson Rd 903-758-9090

705 E Marshall Ave 903-315-2700

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THE LONGVIEW VOICE — January 2021

LOBOS LOOK BACK 2020 |Continued from page 2 Officer Dr. Craig Coleman explained that TCIS will operate the Hudson PEP, Ned E. Williams, South Ward, Foster, Judson, and Longview High School campuses, while LEAP will operate Longview Early Graduation High School, Longview High School’s Career and Technical Education (CATE) program, and East Texas Advanced Manufacturing Academy. This stands to be the second time Longview ISD moved in this direction since the passage of Senate Bill 1882 in as many years — the first being the partnership with East Texas Advanced Academies prior to the 2019-2020 school year. LISD schools currently in the ETAA network include East Texas Montessori Prep Academy, as well as the Bramlette, Everhart, Johnston-McQueen, Ware, and Forest Park campuses. The partnerships are governed by a 2017 state law called Senate Bill 1882 that provides extra funding to traditional public school districts that contract with outside entities such as charter networks, non-profits, and universities to run their schools as an in-district charter. For more information about the Longview ISD public school charter program please visit LISD.org/charters, call the LISD Department of Innovation at 903-381-2200, or visit the TEA website: TxPartnerships.org.

Poll finds strong ratings from public

Respondents to a district survey gave high marks for the COVID-19 pandemic response, as well as for the quality of education students receive at Longview Independent School District. LISD Community Relations held an online survey from June 9th through July 10th, asking students, staff, and

families to rate the district in a variety of categories on a “star scale,” from one to five stars. Respondents were also given the opportunity to rate other aspects of the district, from the administration and board of trustees, to departments like Transportation, Finance, Human Resources, as well as how area residents prefer to receive information about Longview ISD, and even the Community Relations Department itself. The three surveys received a combined 828 total responses, with the parent survey receiving 468 responses, the staff survey receiving 289 responses, and the student survey receiving 71 responses. Created by LISD Communication’s Director Matthew Prosser, results were presented to board members during the July 13 regular meeting. “Our goal for this survey was to give our board members a snapshot of public sentiment as we continue to prepare for the coming school year,” he said.

Rep. Jay Dean hosts virtual meet

State Rep. Jay Dean (R-Longview) was at Longview Independent School District’s administration building Wednesday, July 22, hosting an open forum with superintendents and board members from area school districts. We appreciDEAN ate Rep. Dean for being such a tremendous supporter and advocate for public education in Texas by hearing and trying to address the various concerns and questions facing schools during this difficult time! As we continue to move forward, we hope to have more of these kinds of conversations with our state and local elected officials. The meeting covered the Texas Education Agency’s recent suggestions, as well as possible plans to reopening schools for 2020-2021. “I know this isn’t easy and it’s taking a whole lot of effort on the part of you and your staff, but we want to commend you for the work you’re all doing,” Rep. Dean said.

lenging times with many providing multiple instructional approaches simultaneously,” he said. “As a district, we feel it is critically important to show how highly Longview ISD values our teachers and staff.”

Trustees lower property tax rate

Longview ISD Board of Trustees approved the proposed 2020-21 property tax rate during their special meeting Wednesday, July 29th. The proposal would see the tax rate decrease from $1.443 per $100 valuation for 2019-20 to $1.4394 per $100 valuation for the 2020-21 school year. LISD Chief Financial Officer Mr. Joey Jones said since the implementation of House Bill 3 the district has cut property taxes from $1.513 per $100 valuation (during the 2018-19 fiscal year) to the 2020-21 proposed rate of $1.4394 per $100 valuation.

Board OKs raises for teachers

Trustees approved an aggressive pay structure adjustments following the market value recommendations from the Texas Association of School Boards (TASB) Pay System Maintenance Review, during their regular meeting Monday, Aug. 10th HOCKENBERRY Presented to the board by Dr. James Hockenberry, Assistant Superintendent of District Services, the measure calls for an increase of 3 percent of midpoint. The increase amounts to over $1 million total for teachers and staff. LISD trustees chose from three different models suggested by TASB, of various ranges. With this measure approved, Dr. Hockenberry said Longview ISD would maintain and likely increase its status as employing the highest-paid teacher scale in the East Texas area. The district average is the highest of any public school system in the region. “These are extremely challenging times for everyone, and public schools in Texas are asking teachers to go above and beyond during these chal-

New ‘gaming’ program developed

The video game industry has become a multibillion-dollar industry in recent years, and Longview ISD is developing a partnership with some corporate heavyweights to give our students the inside track. Board members approved McCRAY partnering with Microsoft, Texas-based video game developer Gearbox Software, and Texas Southern University in adopting the GBX Creative Computing Curriculum during a special meeting Wednesday, Aug. 26th. The program, designed by the Frisco-based video game studio, incorporates International Baccalaureate (IB), Science Technology Engineering & Math (STEAM), and Project-Based Learning (PBL). “By 2022, experts forecast the gaming industry will produce $196 billion in revenue,” said Ms. Shalona McCray, District STEAM & Community Engagement Coordinator. “It’s no wonder then that tech giants like Apple and Google are trying to cash in by launching gaming streaming services.” The approval will allow Gearbox Software to pilot their video game design and production program on Foster, Judson, and Longview High campuses. “We are teaching students the ins and outs of working with The Unreal Engine, the same software that powers ‘Fortnite,’” said Mr. Aaron Thibault, Gearbox Software Vice President of Strategic Operations. 2020|Continued to page 7

THE LONGVIEW VOICE — January 2021

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2020 IN REV IEW 2020 |Continued from page 6 “This program introduces students to the core creative computing skills that are employed in the videogame industry to design and develop the most popular games in the world.”

LISD accepts over 500 transfers

The Longview Independent School District Board of Trustees approved accepting more than 500 non-resident students seeking transfer into the district, during their regular meeting Monday, Sept. 14th. Of the 502 students accepted into Longview ISD, 395 (or 78 percent) cited the educational opportunities at Longview ISD as their primary reason for transferring. The transfers come from in and around the Longview area, as well as from other East Texas communities like Tyler, Pittsburg, Henderson, and even as far away as Nacogdoches. It’s a testament to the quality education being provided by our excellent staff, our exceptional academic offerings, and the reputation of our students’ achievements, that these families are choosing to enroll their students in Longview ISD. These aren’t move-ins — though we certainly get quite a few of those each year — but these are residents of other communities, who are willing to drive to Longview for their children to attend our schools. That’s a big deal.

Innovative COVID ‘dashboard’

The Longview ISD Community Relations Department has developed a COVID-19 “dashboard” to show up-to-date information on the latest lab-confirmed cases in the district. The dashboard is available at the district’s ROJAS COVID-19 page at LISD.org/COVID

“The dashboard shows active cases as well as recoveries for all Longview ISD students and staff,” said district spokesman Mr. Francisco Rojas. Rojas said the dashboard will be updated twice daily at 8 a.m. and 5 p.m., “and sometimes throughout the day, as new information becomes available.” “The dashboard breaks down student and staff cases by campus, and includes a separate section for other non-campus staffers such as maintenance, transportation, or administration,” he said. As required by the Texas Education Agency, notification of a lab-positive COVID-19 case will be sent to staff, students, and families. A positive case indicates that the individual has been tested and received a report verifying an acute infection of the COVID-19 virus.

Madison Sandoval, Addison Soape, and Lanie Weber. The Duke University Talent Identification Program is a nonprofit organization that helps academically talented students access the extent of their abilities by allowing above grade level testing and recognition of their achievements. The program’s seventh-grade talent search is the entry point for the program’s resources. Students can qualify by scoring at or above the 95th percentile on state testing or scoring at least 125 on an IQ test.

for Finance, told trustees that Longview ISD received an “A” on its financial rating with a score of 96, among the highest in the East Texas region, during their regular meeting Monday, Dec. 14th. “We strive to be accountable not only for student learning but to do so with cost-effective measures to make the most of our taxpayers’ dollars,” he said. The Financial Integrity Rating System of Texas (FIRST) was created by the Legislature in 2001 and was designed to encourage public schools to better manage their financial resources to provide the maximum allocation possible for direct instructional purposes. Since the creation of the program, Longview ISD has received a superior rating almost every single year.

District selected for testing program

Students earn national honors

Students from Foster and Judson middle schools earned state recognition for their scores on college entrance exams. These students are among the top 25 percent of Duke University’s annual 16-state talent search. Not only that, but Longview ISD Director of Instruction Mrs. Beth Bassett said four students also received national recognition. “Basically what that means is these middle school students scored better than 90 percent of college-bound juniors and seniors taking the SAT or ACT tests,” she said. “That’s really quite remarkable.” 2020 Duke Identification Program scholars earning Grand Recognition are James Angus, Taylen Johnson, Mason Lundy, and Jacky Wang. Longview ISD students earning State Recognition are: Bly Caraway, Grant Carlile, Benji Cox, Bao Dang, Diego D’Arbell, Samuel Felipe, Riley Gonzalez, Juan Gurrola, Kennedy Hatcher, William Hilton, Avery Lambright, Jackson Land, Carlisle Land, Julz Norman,

Longview ISD is one of eight school districts across the state that will participate in a COVID-19 rapid testing pilot program for staffers and students. The district worked with Gov. Greg Abbott’s office, the Texas Education Agency, and the Texas Division of Emergency Management to develop a plan for training, gather and train staff, and then began testing as soon as possible. The testing started with Longview ISD staff members but eventually included district students. No students are tested without parental consent. Longview ISD continues to remain in contact with state and local authorities in this endeavor. We will continue to re-evaluate the state of the district on a daily basis, and any information released is subject to change.

Business Office receives top rating

Once again, Longview ISD has earned the state’s highest grade of “superior” in fiscal responsibility, representing over a decade of consecutive years the district has been so honored. Mr. Joey Jones, Assistant SuJONES perintendent

There’s still MUCH more to come!

Whew! That might seem like a lot, but it’s actually just a sampling of the many great things happening at Longview ISD. Most of which you might not hear about elsewhere, but every single one of those stories were covered this past year in The Longview Voice and through our various social media channels. 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 community partners. Thank you all for a wonderful 2020, and my prayers are with you for an even better 2021! It’s a great time to be a Lobo!

— 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. LISD is widely recognized as one of the most innovative school districts in the state.

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THE LONGVIEW VOICE — January 2021

Campus Spotlight South Ward is a campus of excellence With approximately 60 students per grade and roughly 300 students on campus, South Ward personifies the quality and forward-thinking that are trademarks of Longview ISD schools. As the only campus in the area that combines the International Baccalaureate program, two-way dual language instruction along with Montesorri, South Ward offers a lot for its students. “Our diversity in students and staff give us a unique opportunity,” said South Ward GUERRERO principal

Joaquin Guerrero. “The international focus along with functional multiliteracy along with student-centered hands-on and inquiry-based instruction will give students the background and skills that are shaping

GARDEN |Continued from page 1 all her life, and she has competed in a wide range of agricultural activities. As a Master Gardener intern in 2017, she was offered HOOD the chance to earn hands-on professional hours by teaching a program through Texas A&M University called “Learn, Grow, Eat, Go!” Over the past three years of this program, Mrs. Hood has taught more than 2,000 Longview ISD second-graders about seeds and plant needs. “They planted seeds in the raised beds that we built, and then harvested the veggies,” she said. “You cannot imagine how excited the kids are to see their seeds grow and produce!” Mrs. Hood said for many of the students it was the first time they realized where some of their food comes from, and “they were thrilled to learn they can grow their own!” “It’s one of the most satisfying and rewarding things I have ever done,” she said. “Growing things is just in my blood.” But for now, Mrs. Hood and the other gardeners are busy cleaning out all of the large sticks, rocks, and leftover vegetables. She said getting the soil in good shape “is absolutely vital to having a successful garden.” “After we get the soil tests

back, we’ll start conditioning it,” she said. “Then we’ll add organic compost and lightly incorporate it into the existing soil.” Once the compost has set, Mrs. Hood said, the planting can begin in March. “I want to have a clean garden and eliminate as much weed-eating and spraying as possible,” she said. “We need to simplify things in order to totally focus on planting and harvesting.” Currently, there are flower beds planted at the end of two sprinkler rows, said Mrs. Hood. “The rest of the sprinkler rows will have the same eventually,” she said. “I want us to have a pretty garden, plus it will attract essential pollinators.” Mrs. Hood said there is also a garden bed measuring 100 feet by 4 feet that is currently coming up. “The garden will be laid out and each row numbered,” she said. “I will keep records of what is planted where so that we can rotate the crops each year. I plan on having amazing results!” Longview ISD’s administration is counting on it. “As wonderful as this project has been thus far, we’re counting on Mrs. Hood to help us take it to the next level,” said Superintendent Dr. James Wilcox. “Mrs. Hood brings with her a tremendous amount of skills and experience, and we’re so excited to have her on staff.”

the new work and mindsets to which future trends point. “The IB and dual-language programs have both shown to improve academic learning according to research. More than that, the demographic data

shows that Texas is quickly becoming a more diverse place and our local demographic data shows our students will be living in a more diverse comCampus|Continued to page 14

THE LONGVIEW VOICE — January 2021

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JOHNSTON-MCQUEEN

WARE EAST TEXAS MONTESSORI ACADEMY

JUDSON

601 W Garfield Ave.

259

EAST TEXAS MONTESSORI PREP ACADEMY

LONGVIEW HS

400 N Eastman Rd.

J.L. EVERHART

281

JOHNSTONMCQUEEN ELEMENTARY

BRAMLETTE FOREST PARK

EARLY GRADUATION

BRAMLETTE STEAM ACADEMY

ETX MONTESSORI PREP S. WARD

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THE LONGVIEW VOICE — January 2021

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SPORTS

LOBOS SIGN ON Five Longview High School student-athletes commit

ongratulations to our five student-athletes that signed to play at the collegiate level. Isabel Breaux (Cross Country): Ouachita Baptist University Trent Bush (Baseball): Dallas Baptist University Kybo Jackson-Jamerson (Football): University of Alabama-Birmingham Tatum Fenton (Soccer): LeTourneau University Camryn Jacobs (Soccer): University of Arkansas-Little Rock

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THE LONGVIEW VOICE — January 2021

Congrats to Longview-area TB&T seniors Texas Bank and Trust celebrates the forty-third anniversary of the Longview Student Board of Directors, recognizing outstanding high school seniors who have demonstrated academic excellence, leadership, and a commitment to community service. We are proud to introduce the following members of the 2020-2021 Student Board. Kennedy Croom, daughter of Kristin and Matthew Croom, is a senior at Spring Hill High School. She is the secretary of the student council, an officer of the math and science team, treasurer of the Z-Club, and clarinet section leader in the band. She is also a member of the National Honor Society. Kennedy believes she is impacting the world through her volunteer efforts with her school and her family. While her college choice is still undetermined, Kennedy plans to double major in business and neuroscience. Alisha Patel, daughter of Pina and Raj Patel, is a senior at Trinity School of Texas. She is the founder of the prehealth club and a member of the National Honor Society. She is also a member of the Spanish club and an active volunteer with the Gregg County Historical Museum, Dalton Days, Asbury House, and Newgate Mission. Alisha is a two-time recipient of the Presidential Award from presidents Barack Obama and Donald Trump. Alisha believes she is impacting the world through her volunteer efforts and helping children with math skills at Mathnasium. She plans to attend The University of Texas at Austin and study biology. Alisha’s future goals include working as a doctor. Kate Pimentel, daughter of Myriam Coston and Fernando Pimentel, is a senior at Longview High School. She is an International Baccalaureate student and a member of the National Honor Society. She is also a drum major in the marching band, a head Majorette, and a member of the wind ensemble. Kate believes she is impacting the world by focusing on her educational goals and assisting others in need. She plans to attend the University of Southern California and study psychology and pre-medicine. Kate’s future goals include working as psychiatrist in a hospital and later opening a private office. Grant Endsley, son of Kathy and Cran Endsley, is a senior at Longview High School. He is

a member of the National Honor Society, golf team, band, and the Interact club. Grant believes he is impacting the world through his volunteer service with an animal rescue center and by traveling on mission trips with his church youth group. He plans to attend Texas A&M University and study wildlife biology. Grant’s future goals include earning a master’s degree, working to preserve the environment,

and studying animal behaviors and their roles in the ecosystem. Caroline Taylor, daughter of Deborah and Kevin Taylor, is a senior at Longview High School. She is an International Baccalaureate student and a member of the National Honor Society. She is also co-captain of the women’s swim team, and a member of the Z-Club. Caroline believes she is impacting the world through volunteer ef-

forts with school organizations and by uplifting and encouraging others to reach their goals. She plans to attend the University of Oklahoma and study environmental architecture. Caroline’s future goals include opening her own architectural firm and seeking to minimize the environmental effects of buildings. De’Leon Jones, son of Kimberly Brown-Jones and Bruce Jones, is a senior at Longview High School. He is a member of the varsity football and track teams and the Fellowship of Christian Athletes. He is also a member of the Omega Psi Phi community service fraternity and the youth group of Mt. Olive Baptist Church. De’Leon believes he is impacting the world through volunteer service and by helping his autistic brother improve in his daily goals. He plans to attend the University of North Texas and study journalism and communications. De’Leon’s future goals include working as a sports analyst. Emily Sparks, daughter of Alyce and Stephen Sparks, is a senior at Trinity School of Texas. She is the president of the Z-Club, secretary of the Spanish club, and a member of the varsity volleyball, basketball, golf, and cheerleading teams. She also serves as an acolyte for Trinity Episcopal Church and is an active volunteer with Newgate Mission, Asbury House, and the Gregg County Historical Museum. Emily believes she is impacting the world through her involvement with the Z-Club, which seeks to bring equity and safety to women worldwide. She plans to attend Baylor University and study exercise science. Emily’s future goals include working as a physical therapist. Jonah Collard, son of Janet and John Collard, is a senior at St. Mary’s Catholic School. He is the president of the student council, and a member of the National Honor Society, archery, golf, and the Texas Association of Private and Parochial Schools academic competition teams. He is also an active volunteer with his church and with Longview Community Ministries. Jonah believes he is impacting the world by being a good steward in his church and his community. He plans to attend Kilgore College and LeTourneau University and study aerospace engineering. Jonah’s future goals include working for the National Aeronautic and Space Administration.

THE LONGVIEW VOICE â&#x20AC;&#x201D; January 2021

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THE LONGVIEW VOICE — January 2021

Foster students ‘Lead the Way’ with toy project On Thursday, Dec. robotics unit, and un17, Foster teacher Mederstanding principles lissa Swallow’s students of flight and building showed off their Project different methods of aviLead the Way projects. ation in our flight and Each group was space unit.” tasked with coming up For Ms. Swallow, with a toy that would PLTW is more than just help a child with cerea project for her students bral palsy. as she took part in it for SWALLOW three years during high “Project Lead the Way at Foster is pre-enschool. gineering. My students get to “I have loved PLTW since learn about the ins-and-outs I took it in high school. Enof the design process with our gineering has always held a design and modeling unit,” Ms. special place in my heart and Swallow said. “How to program my students really need to see and build robots and the mech- the different career choices for anisms in everyday items and them out there,” Ms. Swallow tools in our automation and Toys|Continued to page 15

MACK |Continued from page 2 decisions that others make. I feel that social media has made it so much easier now to be judge and jury of others. Of course, when you compare your behindthe-scenes story to someone else’s highlight reel it never is a fair game. I am learning at my age that it is better for me to make the decisions that I think are best for me and my family and to trust that others are doing the same. If I do not feel comfortable going out and about, I stay at home. If I feel like going out and about, I go out and about. This is true whether during times of COVID or not, right? It’s one of the blessings of living in America.

So let’s suffice it to say: learn tolerance. The younger you learn it, the more benefit you will receive from it. Another phrase my Dad said to my brothers and I our entire life was “Do not burn a bridge that you will have to walk over again someday.” That pretty well sums it up. And next month, we will talk about New Year’s Resolutions. Study hard, have some fun, and say your prayers.

Andy — Dr. Andy Mack is a 1978 graduate of Longview High School. An oral and maxillofacial surgeon for more than 25 years, he is owner-operator of East Texas Oral and Maxillofacial Surgery in Longview.

CAMPUS |Continued from page 8 munity. So, not only is it proven to improve thinking and academic performance, it is aimed at the larger educational aim of preparing children to thrive as adults in the world that they will grow into.” South Ward has a variety of events to help their students learn about different cultures and events that take place the world over. From their Day of the Dead Celebration to multicultural Christmas program to their African American History program in the spring, their students receive a wide range of exposure to global cultures. “In partnering with Young Audiences for Arts Integration and Theater program, we have better integrated our arts into our main content areas and vice-versa,” principal Guerrero said. Wanting to include the parents in the festivities, the

campus makes sure to include the student’s families as well. Despite COVID-19, South Ward still finds ways to get engaged with GUERRERO the adults. “We recently held a Cruise Night event where parents and students drove, rode, and walked through the back circle to pick up some Thanksgiving materials to work on during the break as well as a box of pizza for the family,” principal Guerrero said. “We ended up giving out 150 boxes of pizza. With COVID protocols, we have found this to be a positive, fun, and safe way to interact with parents and the community.”

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THE LONGVIEW VOICE — January 2021

Page 15

Judson students write, sell original cookbooks By Marangeli Lopez CBS19

would be fun to talk about recipes and things that their own families do but we wanted to make it It’s the seamulticultural so that it impacted son of giving everybody especially the students and a group at our school,” Oden said. of students at The book titled, “Feed Me Longview ISD’s Differently” has an assortment Judson Midof recipes from all around the dle School are world. The authors are the stugetting into the dents and you can read their bios spirit. in the first few pages of the book. They wrote The book started out as a ODEN a cookbook and normal class project but as it was decided to sell coming together, the students them to the community and use said they wanted to do more with the funds they raised to help feed their creation and asked their local families in need. teacher if they could sell the book “It wasn’t even how much to benefit the local food bank. money have we raised it was how “We can do something with many meals have we provided,” this to benefit other people so English teacher Ashley Oden we started selling it at the camsaid. pus level to raise money for our The sixth grade English class community that was in need of at Judson Middle School raised food,” Oden said. “The students enough funds to provide 2,400 are really excited about their meals for hungry East Texans. project.” “We came up with the idea for “I feel pretty good about it the cookbook because we were because I just like being able to trying to do a cultural-based influence people and hopefully project and with the holidays people from different schools coming the students thought it can start doing this and support

more people in the community that need it,” sixth-grader Anthony Valanos said. The class has raised $300 so far and made the initial donation Thursday... now the book sale is open to the entire district. “It’s a lot, it feels good, it feels really good and so we are gonna continue selling them I know

they will be open to the district too not just Judson but the whole district can purchase them as well,” Oden said. The students want to keep giving the proceeds to the East Texas Food Bank. You can purchase/donate for the cookbook here: https://bit. ly/feedmedifferently

Family Owned for 103 Years

TOYS |Continued from page 14 said. “Most would never can help people in real consider a career in enlife. gineering or think they “They had to design would be good at it, but a toy with cerebral my course helps them palsy. Before my class, see how an engineer most did not even thinks and works.” know what the condiNot only is the projtion was,” Ms. Swalect for the students a low said. “This project cumulative final projreally helped open SWALLOW their eyes to the fact ect of everything that they have learned this that they can design semester in design and modeland create something that can ing, but it also shows them how make someone’s life better what they have done in class now, even in middle school.”

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LONGVIEW ISD Employee Process Map for COVID-19 Employee has symptoms of COVID-19

Employee reports while at work Employee reports to supervisor from home

Employee reports to supervisor and leaves to get medical care or calls 9-1-1 if life threatening symptoms. Isolate if unable to immediately leave building

Employee notifies supervisor

Employee tests positive but has no symptoms

Supervisor notifies COVID-Facilitator Employee fills out a COVID-19 Reporting Form Facilitator notifies DHS Employee notifies supervisor

Employee tests positive and has symptoms

Supervisor notifies COVID-Facilitator Employee fills out a COVID-19 Reporting Form Facilitator notifies DHS

Employee has had “close contact”* or prolonged exposure to someone who has tested positive

Notice is provided to campus/ staff/ community of positive test COVIDFacilitator will provide guidance of when the employee can return to work

Employee notifies supervisor Supervisor notifies COVID-Facilitator Employee fills out a COVID-19 Reporting Form

Employee reports someone in his/her home or workplace was exposed to someone who tested positive or has symptoms

Supervisor notifies COVIDFacilitator Employee/Supervisor fills out a COVID-19 Reporting Form Facilitator notifies DHS

Notice is provided to campus/staff/ community if test returned positive

Employee eligible for EPSL if remote work not viable. Employee should contact his/her primary care physician, self-isolate and avoid public spaces for 10 days after testing positive. Since the district provides free testing to its employees, it is strongly recommended that the employee provide a negative test before returning to work. Employee can return to work after 10 days of self-isolation if no symptoms develop. **If the employee has tested positive and believes the test was a false positive, and wants to return to work before completing the above criteria, the employee must either (a) obtain a medical professional’s note clearing the employee based on an alternative diagnosis or (b) obtain 2 PCR acute infection tests at least 24 hours apart that come back negative.

Emergency Paid Sick Leave = EPSL Department of Health = DHS Primary Care Physician = PCP Employee eligible for EPSL with documentation confirming seeking medical attention or lab confirmed positive test. If employee is not evaluated by a medical professional or tested for COVID-19, employee may return to work after 10 days have passed from symptom onset and at least 24 hours with no fever, without the use of feverreducing medication and individual has improvement with all other symptoms. If employee wants to return before completing criteria above, employee must either (a) obtain a medical professional’s note clearing employee for return based on alternative diagnosis or (b) obtain an acute infection test that comes back negative.

Employee eligible for EPSL if remote work not viable. Since the district provides free testing to its employees, it is strongly recommended that the employee provide a negative test before returning to work. However, the Employee may return to work after 10 days have passed from symptom onset and at least 24 hours with no fever, without the use of fever-reducing medication and individual has improvement with all other symptoms. **If the employee has tested positive and believes the test was a false positive, and wants to return to work before completing the above criteria, the employee must either (a) obtain a medical professional’s note clearing the employee based on an alternative diagnosis or (b) obtain 2 PCR acute infection tests at least 24 hours apart that come back negative.

COVID-Facilitator will provide guidance of when the employee can return to work

If the someone at home or workplace is just “exposed,” continue working (no need to self-isolate). If someone at home or workplace tests positive, employee may be determined to be close contact.

Employee eligible for EPSL if seeking medical care or advised by physician to self-isolate and remote work not viable. Employee should contact his/her primary care physician, self-isolate and avoid public spaces for 14 days. Employee should monitor for symptoms and contact PCP and supervisor if they develop

*Close contact includes being within 6 feet of an individual test-confirmed to have COVID-19 for a total of 15 minutes throughout the course of a day, without the use of a face covering, or being in direct contact with secretions from the test-confirmed individual. **If an individual in the employee’s home tests positive for COVID-19, the employee is presumed to be in close contact with the individual who tested positive.

CONFIRM WITH YOUR LOCAL DHS

The COVID-Facilitator for Longview ISD is Mae Johnson, Task Manager and makes all decisions in conjunction with DHS

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THE LONGVIEW VOICE — January 2021

OBITUARIES Longview ISD offers our most sincere condolences to our extended Lobo family Littie Mae Richardson

an of deep faith, a woman of strength, and a woman who valued order, kindness, and service to others. She had a certain gentleness She Shall be praised. Littie Mae Richardson left that attracted many people to her. Her hobbies included talking on the phone, this earth to be at home with the Lord on Monday, Decem- sewing, cooking, shopping, receiving gifts; ber 7, 2020. She was born on watching her favorite TV shows: Family Feud, Let’s Make a Deal, and The Voice; last May 2, 1946, in Marshall, but not least she loved to save money. She alTexas to the late Olen and ways sacrificed her needs for the good of her Ethel Manning. She was a family. Having all her family around her was proud graduate of the 1964 an absolute joy. class of Pemberton High RICHARDSON She was preceded in death by her parents, School. She married the love Ethel and Olen Manning; one brother, Herof her life, Donnie Ray Richman Manning. ardson on November 21, 1980. She leaves to cherish her memories her Littie is the mother of Catina Love, loving & devoted husband, Donnie Richardthe LISD District Testing Coordinator for son; daughters Stephanie Bryant (Linnie) Longview ISD. Houston, Texas, Katrice Richardson, CrowShe labored on various jobs during her ley, Texas, Catina Love (Marcus) Longview, tenure here on earth. Some of her previous Texas; Audrey Helton (Terence), LaShondra employers were Blue Buckle, Monarch Tile, Watts, and Patrice Allen (Nolan) of Marshall, and she climaxed her work career with 25 Texas. She leaves to mourn her sisters Baryears of service at Poser Business Formsbara Barr, Glenda Friar (V. Belafonte), Mae Print Excel. Katherine Manning of Houston, Texas and She joined the Mt. Zion Spiritual Church Betty Bush, Mary Louise Hall, and Pauline Family in the early 1970s. She was passionate about her service for the Lord and served Reeves of Marshall, Texas. Also her brothers Bernard Manning and Lonnie (Polly) of Housin various capacities such as church clerk, ton, Texas and Franklin Manning (Darlene), announcement clerk, and Mission president. Ray Manning (Carolyn), Olen Manning, and She genuinely loved her church home and family. Even when her health was limited she Travis Manning of Marshall Texas. 6 grandkids, 5 great grandkids, and a host of nieces, still was a faithful worshipper and loved to attend mission meetings and bible study on a nephews, other relatives and very special regular basis. Her disability did not block her friends. II Timothy 4:7 — I have fought the good praise and love for God. fight, I have finished the race, I have kept the Littie was an excellent Wife, Mother, faith. Grandmother, Sister, Aunt, Friend, a wom-

Tommy Neal Baldwin Graveside services for Tommy Neal Baldwin was held at Rosewood Park at on Thursday, Dece. 3, 2020. A time of visitation and fellowship was held at Rader Funeral Home of Longview on Wednesday, Dec. 2. Tommy went to be with the Lord in the late afternoon on MonBALDWIN day, Nov. 30, at his daughter’s home in Longview, surrounded by his family. Tommy was born on March 4, 1942 in Mineola, Texas to his parents Ralph and Eula Mae Baldwin. A few years later they moved to Longview where Tommy attended and graduated from Longview High School in 1960. During this time he met Barbara Jean Bullock and they were soon married. They lived in Longview, Texas and continued to grow their family, having three children. Barbara Jean passed away at the early age of 37, Tommy remarried Barbara Helen Baldwin and they continued to live in Longview as an extended family, including Tommy’s three children and two step sons. Tommy always had a passion for serving those around him. This passion led him to become a fire fighter for the Longview Fire Department where he worked a total of 33 years. Tommy was also highly involved in the Masons, achieving the role of a Master Mason. He was a member of Mobberly Baptist

Church for over 60 years, where he taught the Couples Young Married Adult Sunday school class and was an active member of the Adult choir. Tommy came to know and follow our Lord in the late 60’s, accepting Jesus Christ as his Lord and Savior. Tommy was preceded in death by both wives, his parents and one sister, Bea Patton, and two brothers, Billy (Chigger) and Buddy Baldwin. Those left to cherish their memories of Papa include: Suzy and her husband David Gillespie of Longview, their children Robin (husband Chris Scott), Stephanie (husband James Averett), Traci (husband Casey Elliott), Jeremy (wife Jodi Gillespie), Shari and her wife Cathy Aiello Baldwin of Gilmer, Michael Baldwin and his husband Norbert Szucs of Charlotte, NC. Step sons, Larry and his wife Debra Marshall of Longview, their children Autumn (husband Aaron Kitchen), Brittany (husband Chris Racine), and Chase. Mark Marshall and son Corey of Longview, and 17 great grandchildren. Tommy will also be remembered by his very special, lifelong friend Shirley Bowers and her family, as well as the numerous extended family, friends, and firefighters with the Longview Fire Department. The family would like to extend a special thank you to Dr. Koya and his staff at the Longview Cancer Center and to Sandra, Krystal and the entire team at Lifecare Home Health and Hospice for their support and care during this time. A memorial guestbook may be signed online at www.raderfh.com.

Mother Ervie Brooks Mother Ervie Brooks was born February 19, 1931 to the late Frank, and Essie Jones. Mother Brooks heard the master’s call, and transitioned to her eternal home BROOKS on November 28, 2020 in Longview. Mother Brooks was preceded in death by her Parents; husband Coy Brooks Sr.; siblings, A.D., Frankie, Eddie, Norman, James, Jimmie, Merlene; daughter, Belinda Brooks; grandson, James Robinson; and granddaughter Kiesha Robinson. Mother Brooks was educated, and attended schools in the Longview School System. At the age of 13 years old, she began employment at the Potato chip factory. Mother Brooks was a well known cook, and she fixed the BEST peach cobbler! She loved her children, and served working at the Bethel Temple child care until the age of 79. Mother Brooks was raised up at Bethel Temple of Longview, Texas under the leadership of Elder Timothy Young, followed by Elder A.D. Brown, Bishop Noel Jones, and presently Bishop Robert Evans. She was a FAITHFUL member for over 60 years. Mother Brooks was a strong prayer warrior, praise and worship leader, usher, altar worker, and Sunday school teacher. She never allowed anything or anyone to get her down. She leaves behind to celebrate her rich legacy, Lois (James) Robinson, Bishop McKinley (Helen) Ingram, Essie Wiley, Andrew Snyder, Coy Brooks Jr., Derrick (Angie) Brooks, LaTrina Brooks; 34 grandchildren; 84 great grandchildren; 27 great great grandchildren; and a host of nieces, nephews, and friends. Mother Brooks also leaves to cherish two very special prayer partners, Evangelist Barbara Allen, and Evangelist Sherry Wright.

THE LONGVIEW VOICE — January 2021

Page 17

PUBLIC NOTICES LISD Board meeting set for Jan. 11 Trustees usually meet in the boardroom of the LISD Education 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, Jan. 11.

For more information about the Longview ISD Board of Trustees go to LISD.org.

LISD accepting requests for proposals for Contracted Educational Services Longview Independent School District (LISD) is accepting competitive requests for proposals for Contracted Educational Services for the 2020-21 school year and under the guidance of EDGAR and approval of funding made available for services to be rendered. Awards will be considered NON-EXCLUSIVE, ones by which multiple vendors may be designated as suppliers for the goods and/or services covered un-

der the terms of the contract for the duration of said contract. Contracted Educational Service providers will be used on an as-needed basis throughout the District to provide services to students and staff. Please contact Sheri Broadwater at 903-3812260 to obtain a proposal packet, or download one from below. Proposals must be addressed as follows: ATTN: Sheri Broadwater, and clearly marked “#2020 CS-RFP-CONTRACTED EDUCATIONAL

SERVICES.” Proposals will be accepted throughout the school year on an ongoing basis until 4 p.m. on Thursday, July 29, 2021, at the LISD Education Support Center, 1301 East Young Street, Longview, TX 75601, or mailed to: P.O. Box 3268, Longview, TX 75606. Longview ISD reserves the right to accept or reject any or all of the bids submitted in the best interest of the District.

NOTICE OF SALE STATE OF TEXAS BY VIRTUE OF TAX WARRANT ISSUED OCT. 19, 2020 GREGG COUNTY DATED NOVEMBER 2020 and issued pursuant to Tax Warrant issued out of the County Court at Law No. 2 of Gregg County, Texas, by the Clerk of said Court on said date October 19, 2020, in the hereinafter numbered and styled tax warrant and to me directed and delivered as Sheriff of said County, I have on November _____, 2020, seized, levied upon, and will, on the first Tuesday in December, 2020, the same being the 1st day of said month, at the

South Steps of the Courthouse of 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 a.m., proceed to sell to the highest bidder all the right, title, and interest of the defendants in such tax warrant 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:

SUIT NO. — 022209-CCL2 STYLE OF SUIT AND PROPERTY DESCRIPTION — CITY OF LONGVIEW, ET AL

VS. LUTHER B. HAMILTON, ET AL (TAX WARRANT ISSUED OCTOBER 19, 2020)

Lot 8, Block 7 (NCB 248), Lincoln Park Addition, an addition to the City of Longview, Gregg County, Texas, as described in Volume 421, Page 137, Deed Records of Gregg County, Texas. (Acct No. 53034) (any volume and page references, unless otherwise 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, 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 satisfy taxes, penalties, interest, attorney’s fee, and municipal claims subject to the tax warrant(s) issued in the above styled and numbered causes together with costs of tax warrant, and the proceeds of said sales to be applied to the satisfaction thereof, and the remainder, if any, to be applied as the law directs.

NOTICE OF SALE STATE OF TEXAS BY VIRTUE OF AN ORDER SALE GREGG COUNTY 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 November 3, 2020, seized, levied upon, and will, on the first Tuesday in December, 2020, the same being the 1st 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: (Sale #, Cause # Judgment Date, Acct #, Style of Case, Legal Description) 1 — 19623-CCL2 07/06/20, 113375 (37875), LONGVIEW INDEPENDENT SCHOOL DISTRICT, ET AL VS. MARY D WARD WILLIAMS, ET AL, LT 26 (NCB 218) CARTER UND INT; 2 — 020880CCL2 12/02/19, 00929240947439OR, LONGVIEW INDEPENDENT SCHOOL DISTRICT, ET AL VS. CCI EAST TEXAS UPSTREAM, LLC, ET AL, TRACT 1: LEASE # 0092924 BUFORD #5 (ANADARKO E&P CO LP) AB 239 JOHN WALLING SUR WELL #5 RRC #206467, 320 ACRES 10.1705% OR;

3 — 020880-CCL2 12/02/19, 0092924947439O R, LONGVIEW INDEPENDENT SCHOOL DISTRICT, ET AL VS. CCI EAST TEXAS UPSTREAM, LLC, ET AL, TRACT 2: LEASE # 0092924 BUFORD #5 (ANADARKO E&P CO LP) AB 239 JOHN WALLING SUR WELL #5 RRC #206467, 320 ACRES 10.1705% OR; 4 — 020880-CCL2 12/02/19, N990094421, LONGVIEW INDEPENDENT SCHOOL DISTRICT, ET AL VS. CCI EAST TEXAS UPSTREAM, LLC, ET AL, TRACT 3: 0093209-BUFORD #7-ANADARKO E&P CO LP- AB 239 JOHN WALLING SUR-WELL #7 RRC #231741-0.101705-OR; 5 — 020880-CCL2 12/02/19, N990101190, LONGVIEW INDEPENDENT SCHOOL DISTRICT, ET AL VS. CCI EAST TEXAS UPSTREAM, LLC, ET AL, TRACT 4: 0093195-BUFORD #6-ANADARKO E&P CO LP- AB 239 JOHN WALLING SUR-WELL #6 RRC #230434-0.101705OR; 6 — 020880-CCL2 12/02/19, 00929240947439RI, LONGVIEW INDEPENDENT SCHOOL DISTRICT, ET AL VS. CCI EAST TEXAS UPSTREAM, LLC, ET AL, TRACT 5: LEASE # 0092924 BUFORD #5 (ANADARKO E&P CO LP) AB 239 JOHN WALLING SUR WELL #5 RRC #206467, 320 ACRES 0.9689% RI; 7 — 020880-CCL2 12/02/19, 0092924947439RI, LONGVIEW INDEPENDENT SCHOOL DISTRICT, ET AL VS. CCI EAST TEXAS UPSTREAM, LLC, ET AL, TRACT 6: LEASE # 0092924 BUFORD #5 (ANADARKO E&P CO LP) AB 239 JOHN WALLING SUR WELL #5 RRC #206467, 320 ACRES 0.9689% RI; 8 — 020880-CCL2 12/02/19, 00932090947439RI, LONGVIEW INDEPENDENT SCHOOL DISTRICT, ET AL VS. CCI EAST TEXAS UPSTREAM, LLC, ET AL, TRACT 7: 0093209-BUFORD #7-ANADARKO E&P CO LP- AB 239 JOHN WALLING SUR-WELL #7 RRC #231741-0.009689-RI; 9 — 020880-CCL2 12/02/19, 00931950947439RI, LONGVIEW INDEPENDENT SCHOOL DISTRICT, ET AL VS. CCI EAST TEXAS UPSTREAM, LLC, ET AL, TRACT 8: 0093195-BUFORD #6-ANADARKO E&P CO LP- AB 239 JOHN WALLING SUR-WELL #6 RRC #230434-0.009689-RI; 10— 020880-CCL2 12/02/19, 00929240947439OR100000, LONGVIEW INDEPENDENT SCHOOL DISTRICT, ET AL VS. CCI EAST TEXAS UPSTREAM, LLC, ET AL, TRACT 9: LEASE # 0092924 BUFORD #5 (ANADARKO E&P CO LP) AB 239 JOHN WALLING SUR WELL #5 RRC #206467, 320 ACRES 10.1705% OR; 11 — 020880-CCL2 12/02/19, 0092924947439OR100000, LONGVIEW INDEPENDENT SCHOOL DISTRICT, ET AL VS. CCI EAST TEXAS UPSTREAM, LLC, ET AL, TRACT 10: LEASE # 0092924 BUFORD #5 (ANADARKO E&P CO LP) AB 239 JOHN WALLING SUR WELL #5 RRC #206467, 320 ACRES 10.1705% OR; 12 — 020880CCL2 12/02/19, 00932090947439OR, LONGVIEW INDEPENDENT SCHOOL DISTRICT, ET AL VS. CCI EAST TEXAS UPSTREAM, LLC, ET AL, TRACT 11: 0093209-BUFORD #7-ANADARKO E&P CO

LP- AB 239 JOHN WALLING SUR-WELL #7 RRC #231741-0.101705-OR; 13 — 020880-CCL2 12/02/19, 00931950947439OR, LONGVIEW INDEPENDENT SCHOOL DISTRICT, ET AL VS. CCI EAST TEXAS UPSTREAM, LLC, ET AL, TRACT 12: 0093195-BUFORD #6-ANADARKO E&P CO LP- AB 239 JOHN WALLING SUR-WELL #6 RRC #230434-0.101705OR; 14 — 020880-CCL2 12/02/19, 00929170947439OR, LONGVIEW INDEPENDENT SCHOOL DISTRICT, ET AL VS. CCI EAST TEXAS UPSTREAM, LLC, ET AL, TRACT 13: LEASE # 0092917 KENNEDY MAJOR ESTATE #12 (ANADARKO E&P CO LP) AB 42 JOHN WALLING SURVEY WELL #12 RRC #206909, 702.87 ACR; 15 — 020880-CCL2 12/02/19, N990094246, LONGVIEW INDEPENDENT SCHOOL DISTRICT, ET AL VS. CCI EAST TEXAS UPSTREAM, LLC, ET AL, TRACT 14: 0093209-BUFORD #7-ANADARKO E&P CO LP- AB 239 JOHN WALLING SUR-WELL #7 RRC #231741-0.009689RI; 16 — 020880-CCL2 12/02/19, N990087946, LONGVIEW INDEPENDENT SCHOOL DISTRICT, ET AL VS. CCI EAST TEXAS UPSTREAM, LLC, ET AL, TRACT 15: 0093195-BUFORD #6-ANADARKO E&P CO LP- AB 239 JOHN WALLING SUR-WELL #6 RRC #230434-0.009689-RI; 17 — 020880-CCL2 12/02/19, 0092924947439RI100000, LONGVIEW INDEPENDENT SCHOOL DISTRICT, ET AL VS. CCI EAST TEXAS UPSTREAM, LLC, ET AL, TRACT 16: LEASE # 0092924 BUFORD #5 (ANADARKO E&P CO LP) AB 239 JOHN WALLING SUR WELL #5 RRC #206467, 320 ACRES 0.9689% RI; 18 — 020880-CCL2 12/02/19, 00929240947439RI100000, LONGVIEW INDEPENDENT SCHOOL DISTRICT, ET AL VS. CCI EAST TEXAS UPSTREAM, LLC, ET AL, TRACT 23: LEASE # 0092924 BUFORD #5 (ANADARKO E&P CO LP) AB 239 JOHN WALLING SUR WELL #5 RRC #206467, 320 ACRES 0.9689% RI; 19 — 021290CCL2 08/03/20, 192040, LONGVIEW INDEPENDENT SCHOOL DISTRICT, ET AL VS. WILLIAM WELLS, ET AL, LT 6B BLK 1 (NCB 619) BOB WILLIAMS (E 25’OF N 90’ LT 6); 20 — 021293-CCL2 10/13/20, 20622, LONGVIEW INDEPENDENT SCHOOL DISTRICT, ET AL VS. DESMON JACKSON, ET AL, AB 2 A R JOHNSON SUR TR 39 SEC 4; 21 — 022088CCL2 08/03/20, 61736, LONGVIEW INDEPENDENT SCHOOL DISTRICT, ET AL VS. GERALD WALTERS, LTS 9 & 10 BLK 1A (NCB 440) (N 1/2 LT 9) RADIO CITY; 22 — 021614-CCL2 08/03/20, 86080, SABINE INDEPENDENT SCHOOL DISTRICT, ET AL VS. JAMES GERALD SANSONE, ET AL, AB 155 G NEEDHAM SUR TR 6-02 LBL # HWC306193-4, 23 — 021730-CCL2 08/03/20, 14079, KILGORE INDEPENDENT SCHOOL DISTRICT, ET AL VS. MARY L. BENSON, AKA MARY BENSON, AB 36 W P CHISM SUR TR 241; 24 — 022045-CCL2 08/03/20, 12367, KILGORE INDEPENDENT SCHOOL DISTRICT, ET AL VS HELEN MAY WELLS, AKA HELLEN MAY

GILBERT, AB 40 J S CARITHERS SUR TR 8 UND INT (any volume and page references, unless otherwise 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 satisfy 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 remainder, if any, to be applied as the law directs.

Dated at Longview, Texas, November 3, 2020 Notes: The Minimum Bid is the lesser 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 person 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 information, contact your attorney or LINEBARGER GOGGAN BLAIR & SAMPSON, LLP., attorney for plaintiffs, at (903) 757-5448

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CH ARTER PARTNERS Texas Council for International Studies By Linda Buie Executive Director Beginning with the 2020-2021 school year, all Longview ISD schools are being operated by three non-profit charter partners: Texas Council for International Studies (TCIS), East Texas Advanced Academies (ETAA), and Longview Education (LEAP). The Texas Council for International Studies (TCIS) charter partner operates the following schools: Hudson PEP Elementary School, Ned E. Williams Steam Academy, South Ward Elementary School, Foster Middle School, Judson Steam Academy, and Longview High School. Longview High School is a fully authorized International Baccalaureate® (IB) World School and has been for the past twelve years. Earning the prestigious IB World School authorization requires the school to complete a three-year process to demonstrate meeting the IB rigorous standards and practices. Longview High School is authorized for the IB Diploma Programme for juniors and seniors. Additionally, the high school is currently in the authorization process to offer the IB Middle Years

Programme (MYP) at the ninth and tenth grades. All five other schools in the TCIS charter are also in the authorization process to become authorized IB World Schools. The three elementary schools will offer the IB Primary Years Programme (PYP), and the middle schools will offer the Middle Years Programme (MYP). Additionally, TCIS also operates eight schools in San Antonio ISD. Texas Council of International Studies was created as a nonprofit organization to focus on the successful implementation all four IB programmes: DP, MYP, PYP, and CP in the schools that it is partnering with. TCIS was founded by experienced IB educators and community leaders who have the goal of enhanced student success through IB. TCIS facilitates the implementation of IB programmes through partnership agreements with IB schools and districts. TCIS then provides IB program development, IB professional training, curriculum planning, marketing campaigns and scholarship programs. TCIS and partner schools commit to the following: Ensure a continuity and commitment to the standards of performance

espoused by the International Baccalaureate®; Facilitate program development, professional development, curriculum planning and scholarship programs at IB World Schools; Provide authorized IB professional development; Operate and manage schools by providing campus autonomy with expert school leadership support. Texas Council of International Studies has a governing board of members who have a history of IB experience: Karen Phillips, President; Walter Sorensen, Vice President of Operations; Dr. Bill Thomas, Treasurer; Ted Williams, Member at Large; Margaret Davis, Chief Executive Officer

East Texas Advanced Academies By Dr. Cynthia Wise Chief Executive Officer We are confident in our Culture Conscious Campus (CCC) model, which is a comprehensive model that encompasses four aspects of school culture, and we promise to deliver exceptional outcomes for students. It is our desire that our scholars are able to be beacons of light in our society therefore, our message for all of our families and, especially our students, is that we are committed as a Network to ensuring that our students receive the very best educational experience possible whether on-campus or at home. We are a family of learners and our efforts will not be in vain; as ALL OF OUR CHILDREN are worth taking the time, energy and effort to educate, engage and

extend, even during the most challenging times. F or the first two weeks, from August 17 to August 31 , students will review policies, procedures, and expectations, get to know their new teachers, read, adjust to

“school hours”, complete universal screeners, adjust to synchronous and asynchronous learning formats through the use of Google Classroom. Google Classroom will be the learning platform that all ETAA students will use. It allows them to interact during classes, actively engage in assignments, take quizzes, collaborate with peers, communicate with teachers, and more. The remote return to school will also allow campuses to rehearse and finalize all safety and sanitation protocols to significantly reduce the risk of viral spread on campus. ETAA is an LISD Partner of choice, and that extends to our learning models. Please take time to carefully consider your options and what is best for your family. Our schools will offer both face-to-face and remote learning beginning on August 17 .

Longview Educates and Prospers LEAP manages the Longview Early Graduation High School, Longview High School’s Career and Technical Education (CATE) program, and East Texas Advanced Manufacturing Academy. Board members for LEAP include Mr. Wayne Mansfield,

Mr. Shawn Hara, and Mr. Keith Bonds, with a leadership team that includes district Longview High CATE Director Mr. Gary Kreuger, Academy Director Mr. Jody Sanders, and Early Grad H.S. Principal Mrs. Kristi Means.

The partnership of LEAP, TCIS and ETAA are governed by a 2017 state law called Senate Bill 1882 that provides extra funding to traditional public school districts that contract with outside entities such as charter networks, non-profits,

and universities to run their schools as an in-district charter. In accordance with TEA policy, by having LISD be the authorizer of charter campuses, the district maintains the authority to set the ground rules the partners have to follow.

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THE LONGVIEW VOICE â&#x20AC;&#x201D; January 2021

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