Longview graduation rate is ranked in the top

A legacy of education and professional excellence for generations

Ned Edward Wil-

liams was born a slave on September 4, 1864 to Ms. Partha Williams (being a slave, his father was not known) on a Plantation owned by James W. Williams in Sabine County, Texas. He was reared in rural Shelby County, Texas (near the East Hamilton community), until he was approximately sixteen years old. His mother had three other children; Jake, Della and Ludie.

In 1880 the family migrated by wagon train to Kansas for a better life and lived there for about 18 months in the Coffeyville area. Kansas proved to be no better than East Texas, in addition to the weather being rather hostile at the time. The family decided to return to Shelby County. Instead they stopped by a farm owned by Dr. Mitchell in rural Gregg County, near the Elderville community. They worked on the farm for a while and decided to stay in the area instead of returning to Shelby County.

During this time Ned E. Williams kept privately studying books he acquired along the way after he finished his chores. Dr. and Mrs. Mitchell encouraged him to continue his studies. Since he was selftaught and very studious, he was encouraged by Professor F. A. Glenn to enter the teaching profession. Williams took the examination and passed, despite having never received a formal education. He started his teaching career in 1883 at a small school in community of Fredonia, about 8 miles south of Longview.

Ned E. Williams taught in Fredonia until 1889, when he was called home to the community of Greenville (southeast of Longview near the East Texas Regional Airport) to assist in setting up and running a school that would later bear his name. The school operated in the Elderville School District under the following names: Greenville School, Greenville High School, Gregg County Training School, and finally Ned E. Williams High School. The school continued in operation for over 80 years producing thousands of graduates who have served the community and the nation as teachers, preachers, lawyers, chemists, business leaders, administrators and leaders in the armed forces.

Professor Williams was able attend Bishop College in Marshall, and the Tuskegee Institute in Alabama despite not having the benefit of a formal high school education. While at Tuskegee Institute he studied under influential American

thinkers Dr. Booker T. Washington and Dr. George Washington Carver. When he returned to Texas, Williams regularly corresponded with them until they each passed away. Dr. Booker T. Washington died in 1915. Dr. George Washington Carver WILLIAMS died in 1943. Dr. Carver made his first visit to Longview in 1915, and again 1927 when he stayed in the home of Professor Ned E. Williams for about a week to visit the school and community. Shortly before Dr. Carver passed, he was scheduled to make another visit to the Williams family and school in Longview. The visit was called off because of scheduling problems during the war (World War II) and his illness. A devout member of the Pleasant Green Baptist Church, Professor Williams served a number of capacities as Deacon, Trustee, Church Clerk, and Sunday School Teacher to name a few. He was also a Mason in the Prince Hall Cuney Lodge. He kept the community informed of various issues affecting them through voter education, counseling, Notary Public. He continued to remind residents to pay their poll taxes and vote so they could effect the outcome of an election.

Ned|Continued to page 11

LISD continues to offer the future to students

By Dustin Taylor

For my freshman year of high school I followed the tradition that my siblings set ahead of me: I switched from Kilgore to Longview.

There were several reasons for this, but the biggest reason was that LHS had a lot to offer for students that KHS simply didn’t. From the sheer load of extra-curricular classes to having some of the best teachers in East Texas.

For me, like most students, high school had its up and downs, but at the end of the day, as I took a hold of my diploma, I felt as though I was graduating from LHS with great memories and a head full of knowledge.

As an introvert, I didn’t put myself out there and experience all of the opportunities that I could have. I only scratched the surface of all the amazing things that were offered to students. For me personally, the most important class that I took during my four years was a class that I initially took for the “easy” A: Journalism.

The off-handed choice wound up shaping my future like few other choices ever would. I went to college to become a journalist, got a job for a local newspaper, then landed my current job working for LISD’s Community Relations Department where I design this very newspaper.

I am where I am because I made a random choice for an extra-curricular class and because the teacher, at that time, saw something in me as a writer and encouraged me to keep at it. I will forever be indebted to Chris Craddock. Thanks to his kind attitude and encouragement, I found a career choice that I truly enjoy and have a knack for. Mr. Craddock represents the reason that my siblings and I went to LHS instead of KHS: potential.

The potential classes, the potential to learn from great teachers and the potential to put our feet on the right future for ourselves.

With me now working at LISD and traveling all over the different campuses due to my job, I am so proud to see that the very reason that we chose LHS has not only continued to be a part of LISD but has grown by leaps-and-bounds.

The high school, for example, has so many new teachers that exemplify excellence, as well as some that are still there (Some that I was lucky enough to have been taught by when I was a teen, such as Pam Mercer and

TAYLOR

Calvin Hanzik).

Then there are the new opportunities afforded to the students: From the newer tennis courts (I’m certainly not at all jealous of their nice, new, non-cracked courts. Not at all.) to the ever expanding Ag program, the amazing robotics programs or the ability to graduate with a college degree weeks before even receiving one’s high school diploma.

I am so happy to see that LISD has grown so much, offering seemingly endless branches of growth for the students.

I am a proud Lobo.

South Ward to be renamed after Bailey

Clarence W. Bailey was the first black school board member in Longview

Published May 26, 2021

The Longview ISD Board of Trustees unanimously approved renaming South Ward Elementary in honor of the district’s first BAILEY African-American school board member, during a special-called meeting Wednesday, May 26.

South Ward Elementary will now become Clarence W. Bailey Elementary, or “The Bailey School,” with a dedication set for later this summer.

Mr. Clarence W. Bailey was elected in 1977, serving Place 6 on the LISD Board of Trustees for 21 years before stepping down in 1998.

Dr. James Wilcox, LISD Superintendent of Schools, said the board asked him to find a way to honor Mr. Bailey after his passing on Feb. 14th. After forming a committee, Dr. Wilcox said it was determined that renaming the South Ward campus in Mr. Bailey’s honor would be the most appropriate action.

“Mr. Bailey left a legacy of service and dedication to students, staff, and families of this district,” he said. “Our help is that — with this dedication — Longview ISD can show some small gesture of appreciation for Mr. Bailey, and his life of service to our community.”

One of the oldest campuses established by the school district, South Ward Elementary opened in 1934, with additions built in 1947 and 1954. The campus is located on Mobberly Avenue near Pliler Street, in the heart of historic south Longview.

CLARENCE W. BAILEY

Clarence W. Bailey was born September 25, 1933 to Arthur Jerome Bailey Sr. and Lorraine Darden Bailey of Longview. A native of Longview, Clarence graduated from Mary C. Womack High School in 1950. He earned a Bachelor of Science degree in physical education and biology from Wiley College in Marshall, later receiving a Master’s degree in psychology and counseling from Drake University in Des Moines, Iowa.

Beginning a career in insurance, Clarence established Bailey’s Insurance Agency in 1967. His career allowed him to qualify several years for the Million-Dollar Round Table, National Quality Award, Texas Leaders Round Table and National Sales Achievement Award. He was also given lifetime status for National Western Life’s President’s Council Award which sent his wife and daughter to worldwide trips in countries and places that included Hawaii, Barbados West Indies, Austria, Switzerland, Morocco, Russia, England and many resorts across the country.

Heavily involved in civic affairs as well as the business world, Clarence worked as a teacher-coach for Longview Independent School District for seven years; playground director for the City of Des Moines, Academic & Tactical Instructor for the U. S. Air Force, and eventually served four terms for the Longview Independent School Board of Trustees, which included tenure as board president. Clarence also served on various committees for the Longview Chamber of Commerce, Longview High School, East Texas Area Boy Scouts of America, the Longview NAACP, Wiley College, and numerous other local boards, organizations, and associations.

Also an ordained minister, Rev. Bailey was an Associate Pastor of Bethel Missionary Baptist Church in Longview. He enjoyed reading the Bible and had a true passion for helping others, especially financially. He was married to his devoted wife, the late Mavis L. Bailey, for 64 years, and was the proud father of Sherry Bailey Smith (husband Pastor Johnny Smith), two granddaughters Tasha Smith Griffin (husband Aaron Griffin and son Taron), and Sherina Smith Boyd (husband Nicholas Boyd and two children Faith and Noah).

For more information please contact Longview ISD at 903381-2200.

NED |Continued from page 10

None of his accomplishments could have been made without his wife the former Adah Richardson whom he married on February 1, 1883. Ten children were born to this union and they were; Cora H., Alfred L., John R., Mattie L., Neddie D., Elzie R., Frances A., Lena B., Victor H. and Wilbert E. Five of the children became teachers and five engaged other endeavors. Two of them taught with him at the school; Elzie R. and Lena B. Elzie (E. R.).

In 1883, Williams established the Greenville School, in the former Elderville Community School District. In 1918, the school’s name was changed to Gregg County Training School, and Williams was named its first principal. Upon his death in 1945, the school’s name was changed to

HUDSON |Continued from page 9

enrichment for students, there are unique classes offered.

Students attend art classes, where they learn to appreciate art as well as develop the artist in themselves. Hudson PEP also offers students science lab experiences and engage in science investigations that correlate with the content that is being taught honor its founder and longtime principal. His son, E.R. Williams, followed in his footsteps and served as principal and district superintendent.

A brick building was constructed in 1964, and the original Ned E. Williams School operated until 1969, when it consolidated with Longview ISD as the district integrated its schools.

When the Longview ISD board of trustees called for a bond election in May 2008 that would finance construction and renovation of facilities across the district, the plan was to follow a neighborhood schools concept that would, in part, shorten bus rides. Trustees decided to build a campus south of Interstate 20 to meet the needs of students in the area.

in the regular classroom. All students benefit from our Gifted and Talented (GT) program.

The GT teacher facilitates all classroom teachers as well as teaches lessons that are geared for GT and non-identified students. Additional students in third and fourth grade may participate in the Hudson

LISD Superintendent Dr. James Wilcox said naming the campus after Williams was a natural choice.

After over 60 years in the field of education, Professor Ned E. Williams passed away on November 27, 1945 leaving behind a world in much better shape than he found it.

Writing in his book “History of My Life” dated December 11, 1928, Ned E. Williams stated: “I am indebted to the best Negroes and Whites of this country for my success if I have made any at all. I do know one thing I have spared no time in trying to make myself an honest citizen and all that come in my way to instruct. So this is about the career of my life. My only regret is I wish I had another to spend.”

PEP string instruction in an after school program. Fifth graders have a choice for their music fine art and either choose band, orchestra or show choir.

The atmosphere at Hudson PEP is one of a united family. Pleasant smiles and pos-

ENDING ON A HIGH NOTE

Lobo boys, girls soccer wrap up record-breaking season

Published April 18, 2021

Amemorable and historic soccer season is over for Longview High School. The Lobos reached the Regional Semifinals and lost to the number #1 ranked team in the state, according to maxpreps.com, Frisco Wakeland (1-0).

The journey for the Lobos started with a (1-0) win over Sulphur Springs back in January and continued with 15 matches going undefeated, tying only once against Pine Tree High School and beating every other team on their path. The Lobos scored a total of 50 goals and conceded only 9 in 17 games. Additionally, 11/17 games ended up in clean sheets for the Lobos, demonstrating that they were the most solid team defensively and offensively in East Texas and off to a record-breaking season.

Several boys and girls varsity soccer players earned recognitions within our 5A District Area. Cam Jacobs and Johnathan Castanon earned “MVP of the Year (District)”, Alexa Polanco and Jose Luis Aguilar earned “Best Defensive Player of the Year”, Collen Gilliland earned “Midfielder of the Year”, and Alexis Olvera earned “Goalkeeper of the Year”. Alejandro Rojas and Royce McConnell earned recognitions from the Texas High School Coaches Association to be part of the “Academic All State Seniors for 2020/21”. Alexandra Sanchez, Gabby Casimiro, Izzy Hough, Tatum Fenton, Isa McMillian, Freddy Acosta, Francisco Hernandez, Royce McConnell, Alejandro Rojas, and Sergio Landin all made the 15-5A First All District teams for boys and girls. Alexandra Rojas, Emma Wright, Kyla Johnson, Chance Williams, Diego Enriquez, and Jesus Ramirez all made the

Record|Continued to page 13

Lobo Athletics teams up with ‘Gameday’

Published Apr. 12, 2021

A new communications partnership looks to take Lobo Athletics to the next level.

Longview ISD has signed a marketing agreement with Longview Gameday, an East Texas-based sports multimedia organization owned and operated by Mr. Morgan Smith.

But what does this mean for Lobo Athletics?

“Significantly increased visibility for the many amazing Lobo athletes who walk the hallowed halls of Longview High,” said Mr. Smith. “And a steady stream of dynamic multimedia presentations, partnerships with local TV stations, and featured coverage of ALL Lobo sports, focusing on the many hard-working athletes who make these programs renowned throughout the state and region!”

Coach John King, LISD Athletic Director, said the quality of Lobo athletes is second to none, but unfortunately Longview’s smaller media market “sometimes makes it difficult for collegiate recruiters to have an accurate picture of how talented our players really are.”

“I wouldn’t trade our hard-working, tough Longview kids for any in the country,” he said. “And history has shown that there’s more than enough

talent in Lobo Nation to make it to the collegiate and professional levels of multiple sports.” “We’re looking forward to working with Longview Gameday in celebrating the many excellent student-athletes in our program, and help them get the exposure they need to pursue their ambitions at the next level.” Coming at no cost to LISD taxpayers, the agreement stands to provide top-notch SMITH coverage and publicity for ALL Lobo sports. Coverage will include Longview High School’s award-winning marching band, cheerleaders, Viewettes, and

KING

Published March 6, 2019

The celebration continues for the State Champion Longview Lobos!

Matthew McConaughey

stopped by the Texas Capitol on Wednesday, March 6, 2019, to congratulate his former high school’s football team on its recent state championship.

The Academy Award winner and 1988 Longview High grad joined the Longview Lobos as they were honored in the House and Senate for winning the 2018 Class 6A Division State Championship in December, capping a perfect 16-0 season.

State Rep. Jay Dean (R-Longview) and state Sen. Bryan Hughes (R-Mineola), filed resolutions to congratulate the Lobos on their first state championship win in 81 years.

“What a day! So proud of these kids,” Dean said. “They did a great job representing our community and left a real impression on our Capitol this morning. This event was all about the players and coaches, but I want to thank the Governor and Mr. McConaughey for accepting my invitation to join us in recognition of our city. Go Lobos!”

For nearly 20 minutes, McConaughey halted action on the Senate floor as Senators and their staff lined up for photos with him.

Outside the Capitol, McConaughey and the Lobos were joined by Gov. Greg Abbott, who also spent his youth in Longview.

“What are your chances of repeating?” Abbott asked John King, Longview head football coach. “You’ve got your quarterback back!”

McCONAUGHEY

ABBOTT

KING

1992 hoop squad honored at state tourney

Published Feb. 22, 2017

Longview High School’s 1992 championship-winning Lobo varsity basketball team were recognized March 12, 2017, during the UIL state tournament at the Alamodome in San Antonio.

The team was be honored during halftime of the Class 5A matchup in a special presentation.

Led by legendary Lobo coach Leroy Romines, the team included future Notre Dame All-American and NFL star Bobby Taylor, as well as players and coaches Dayrion Taylor, Vince Taylor, Lonnie Taylor, Jacob Mauldin, Marlon Coleman, Howard Hawkins, Josh Welch, Rontrek Floyd, Desmond Wesley, Brandon Lawson, James Palmer, Toby Bush, Gaylon Hyder, Byron Young, Eric Jones, Clint Musslewhite, Marvin Graham, Jimmy Kendrick, and Lissa Byrdsong.

Romines, who passed away in 2014, put together a career record of 714-312 during his three decades of coaching. He won 423 games in Longview over 18 seasons, retiring in 1996.

RECORD |Continued from page 12 CHARTER |Continued from page 7

15-5A Second team All District with four honorable mentions: Erik Torrez, Victor Aguilar, Madelyn Creel, and Tenique Bauer.

It certainly was an unforgettable season that many parents, coaches, teachers, students, and Lobo soccer supporters will treasure forever. But we know that this is just the beginning of an era for this program. the shifts that may occur will involve details behind the scenes, “mostly on an administrative level.”

“But what teachers and students will notice, is resources that have been desired in the past will actually be in the hands of teachers and students to improve the engagement of the instruction in the classroom,” he said, adding that individual campuses may also notice more freedom to make decisions in the best interest of their students.

“One of the goals of the non-profit partnerships is to provide those who deal most directly with the students more autonomy to make decisions that