Volume VIII, Issue 10 (September 1, 2023)

THE ongview

GREAT START GREAT START

Longview starts 2023-24 school year

Board calls bond election for Nov. 7th

Proposed funds for updates, upgrades

The Longview ISD Board of Trustees unanimously approved calling a Nov. 7th bond election for two propositions totaling about $359.7 million to fund facility upgrades, including safety enhancements, and improved facilities during their regular meeting Monday, Aug. 14.

Registered voters residing within the Longview ISD boundaries will be asked to consider two bond propositions that would generate funding for safety and security updates, new schools and a multi-purpose facility, renovations to existing schools, updates for early childhood education, athletic improvements, and more.

The LISD total tax rate has decreased more than 37 cents over the last 6 years resulting in the current tax rate of $1.1422. If voters approved all three bond propositions, the maximum estimated tax impact would be an increase of $0.007, less than one penny, for a new rate of $1.149. That equates to an additional $10 per year on the average Longview ISD home valued at $200,000.

Compared to 15 other surrounding school districts, LISD has one of the

Bond|Continued to page 17

Sharing the good news about Longview Independent School District

For the fifth straight year, the LISD board has lowered the property tax

Find out more about the Longview ISD 2023 bond proposition

After starting with a stumble, the Lobos have regained their footing in non-district action

Check out the latest social media posts that you may have missed.

OPINION

Be sure to vote in the Nov. 7 school bond election

By Dr. Wayne Guidry

On November 7, Longview ISD residents face a decision as they cast their votes on two school bond propositions. These proposals are carefully tailored for a balanced approach to improving education and facilities.

At the core of Proposition A is student and faculty safety. This proposition outlines comprehensive security upgrades, encompassing safety film, fencing, cameras, and more, across all campuses. It also addresses the aging infrastructure such as HVAC systems and plumbing, ensuring a conducive learning environment.

Longview High School stands to benefit significantly from Proposition A. Projects range from restroom updates and school repainting to enhancements in the library, theater, and band hall. Equally important is expanding the Early Graduation High School’s classroom capacity.

Proposition B is dedicated to athletic and multipurpose

facilities. The plan includes upgrades to soccer, baseball, and tennis facilities, with a particular emphasis on training and competition. A notable feature is the creation of a new Multi-Purpose Facility designed to benefit both athletes and the band and other student groups.

The proposed MultiPurpose Facility would allow for indoor education and training. The current practice space prevents the entire band from practicing as a unit. The proposed facility boasts a 120yard field, and weight room, locker rooms, and administrative spaces.

Investing in Career and Technical Education

Proposition A also provides funding for Career and Tech -

nical Education (CTE).

It proposes the construction of a new CTE facility to accommodate programs in cosmetology, nursing, culinary arts, agriculture, and engineering. This initiative aims to equip students with certifications and practical skills for future careers or further education.

Proposition A also

provides funding for an Early Childhood Education Center to allow for early education of our youngest students and attract high-quality educators to our district. Additional infrastructure enhancements, including a new bus barn, are slated to improve operational efficiency.

The LISD tax rate has decreased by over 30 cents in the past five years. The bond

proposal necessitates a minimal tax rate increase, estimated to be less than a single penny. On a home valued at $200,000, this equates to approximately $10 annual increment in the tax bill.

Longview ISD’s commitment to education remains steadfast. By utilizing bond funds for capital projects, the district ensures that the general budget can be fully allocated pay for and support teachers and classroom instruction.

Early Voting runs from Oct. 23 to Nov. 3 and Election Day is Nov. 7. For those who still need to register to vote within Longview ISD, the registration deadline is October 10.

Visit www.LISD.org/bond for comprehensive project details, tax impact information, frequently asked questions, and the chance to pose your own queries. Please be sure to vote in the November 7 election.

— Dr. Wayne Guidry is Assistant Superintendent of Finance for Longview ISD.

2018 city bond was a vital investment in our future

By Matthew Prosser

I recently spent some time contemplating the 2018 City of Longview bond election. Passed overwhelmingly by a 2-to-1 margin, the voters of Longview made a profound investment in our community.

The $104 million bond addressed critical needs in public safety, streets, infrastructure, parks, and recreation. $52.4 million went towards constructing a new police station, training facility, and upgrading fire stations. These crucial investments provide first responders with state-ofthe-art tools and facilities to effectively keep families safe. Emergency response times have improved as well.

Another $27.1 million went to repairing and upgrading streets and infrastructure throughout Longview. Smoothly paved roads and new sidewalks and trails demonstrate that this money was wisely spent, directly improving daily life for residents.

The remaining $24.7 mil-

lion was dedicated to parks and recreation upgrades. At the improved parks, I now see children playing on new equipment and athletes enjoying enhanced fields and facilities. Families walk, bike, and appreciate upgrades like those made along the scenic Cargill Long Trail.

If you drive around to the various locations impacted by the various projects included in the 2018 bond package, you find many upgraded amenities across Longview that enhance our quality of life and lay the groundwork for future growth.

Leading up to the election, I joined a group of citizens advocating for passage. We consisted of various officials, business leaders of different industries,

former city staff, school administrators, and other concerned taxpayers. Our diverse coalition reflected the community working together. Through communicating details and possibilities, we made a compelling case. Though some worried about funding everything at once, most recognized that approving all propositions in a single bold stroke was prudent. We had to seize the opportunity to invest ambitiously in Longview’s future.

So now, Longview reaps rewards from those smart investments. Fiscally conservative values of responsibility and safety resonated with me, while others connected to priorities like amenities, activi-

ties, and city pride. Despite our differences, residents unified across party lines to support this vision by a large plurality.

The 2018 bond election was a defining moment for Longview. We saw a chance to build a better city and seized it through unity and wise investment. The strides made so far stem from that ambitious vision set in motion years ago. Though more work remains, the 2018 bond program sparked a new era of potential.

As we continue this journey, I hope we maintain the spirit of progress and possibility kindled during the 2018 election. We have momentum to do great things if we stay committed to elevating the quality of life for all residents.

Our accomplishments prove that when citizens work together, focused on our shared hopes rather than differences, Longview’s best days remain ahead.

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

INCASE U MISSED T I YO

lobo Choir seeks support

The Lobo Choir has been invited to participate and perform in the 80th Anniversary of D-Day Celebration and Ceremonies. We will participate in a ceremony at the two American Cemeteries in France, Walk in a parade of the first village liberated by the Allies, and perform in Paris honoring our veterans. We need your help to get there. Go to our website to find out more. www.lobochoir.org

Applications for QuestBridge

QuestBridge is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization that aims to increase the number of outstanding low-income students who attend the nation’s leading colleges and to support them to achieve success in college and beyond. Apply for free at www.questbridge.org. The deadline for applications is September 26, 2023.

letu girls in aviation day

LETU will host its annual “Girls in Aviation Day” on Saturday, September 23 from 8:30 a.m. - noon at the East Texas Regional Airport. This FREE event is for girls ages 8 -17 and their guardians. Tickets are required and can be secured here: https://bit.ly/

LETUGIAD23

Planned events include: career panel with multiple female aviation professionals, hands-on lab project working with sheet metal, phonetic alphabet art projects, fly a flight simulator and learn airplane controls, tours of the Abbott Aviation Center facility and opportunities to learn about LeTourneau’s Dual Credit courses, aviation scavenger hunt...plus more!

Did we miss your district news?

& associates real estate firm

Board approves lower tax rate

The Longview Independent School District Board of Trustees unanimously approved a lower property tax rate and new district budget for the 2023-24 year during a special meeting on Tuesday, Sept. 5th.

Dr. Wayne Guidry, LISD Assistant Superintendent of Finance, said the district is projecting a balanced General Operating budget of $101,591,292, a Debt Service of $33,481,677, and a Food Service Budget of $6,807,501. This total brings the official budget to $141,880,470.

“The budget includes salary increases for employees as well as retention bonuses for returning employees, and addresses rising inflation,” he said.

The maintenance and operations tax rate is $0.6692 and the interest and sinking tax rate is $0.4730 cents for a total tax rate of $1.1422 per $100 valuation. This is a marked decrease from the 2022-23 tax rate, which was $1.3276 per $100 valuation.

please contact the district at ask@LISD.org or call 903-3812200

where the 10-day response deadline may be impacted,” he said.

The resolution was passed to comply with House Bill 3033, which requires school districts to formally designate at least 10 non-business days annually for calculating Public Information Act deadlines..

WATER FOUNTAINS

It also marks the fifthstraight year of the property tax rate being reduced for Longview ISD property owners.

Superintendent Dr. James Wilcox said the district has been cutting the tax rate in recent years, after keeping the same rate stable for nearly a decade.

“The board maintained the same tax rate of $1.5130 from 2010 until 2019 — when the district reduced the rate to $1.4430 — and we’ve continued to reduce it each year since,” he said. “This illustrates how Longview ISD has worked to offset the sharp increase in property tax valuations that are well beyond our control.”

While the district has reduced the LISD property tax rate for the last six years, the amount of property taxes collected may increase due to a rise in the value of the property, which is determined by the county appraisal district.

Longview ISD’s tax rate dropped over 37 cents in the past 6 years, now at $1.1422. Compared to nearby districts, LISD maintains a low 2.3 percent debt-to-assessed value ratio, one of the lowest in our area.

For questions about the budget and proposed tax rate

SECURITY MANDATE

Trustees unanimously approved a resolution declaring a good cause exception to the House Bill 3 requirement that each campus have an armed security officer present during school hours.

Public Information Act. The designated days include holidays, school breaks when offices are closed, and early July when offices are minimally staffed.

GUIDRY COLEMAN

Citing a shortage of qualified personnel, Dr. Craig Coleman, LISD Chief Innovation Officer, explained that Longview ISD is like many districts through out the state that currently “lacks sufficient staff to guarantee an armed officer’s presence on every campus daily.”

“The board determined this shortage constitutes good cause for a House Bill 3 exception,” he said. “The district will now develop an alternative security plan using available resources.”

Dr. Coleman said the resolution specifically declares the district cannot meet the armed officer requirement due to a lack of qualified personnel, as confirmed by local law enforcement.

“State law requires the district outline an alternative security standard in response,” he added.

NON-BUSINESS DAYS

Board members also passed a resolution designating 10 non-business days for the 2023-24 school year to calculate deadlines under the Texas

Dr. Craig Coleman , LISD Chief Innovation Officer, said the measure aims to facilitate compliance with the Public Information Act while allowing staff to observe closures and holidays per the board-approved calendar.

“Identifying likely staff absences in advance provides clarity on days

Later, the board unanimously approved the purchase of new water fountain systems valued at over $50,000 to replace outdated or potentially unsafe fountains in multiple district schools.

Dr. Wayne Guidry, LISD Assistant Superintendent of Finance, said some existing fountains are outdated or potentially unsafe.

“New systems will help ensure students and staff have access to clean, safe drinking water during the school day,” he said.

Dr. Guidry added that the purchase is part of ongoing efforts to update aging infrastructure throughout the district.”

FOR MORE INFO

Trustees usually meet in the boardroom of the LISD Education Support Center (1301 E. Young Street), but often set special-called meetings at various locations around the district. The next regular meeting is tentatively scheduled for 6 p.m. Sept. 18, 2023.

For more information about the LISD meetings go to LISD.org . Agendas and Minutes can also be found at the website, as well as information on financial transparency.

CHARTERS

The symphony of learning at ETAA

By Brian Ziemer ETAA CEO

One of my greatest joys as a musician is listening to a band, orchestra or choir warm up before a performance. One can hear all kinds of individual sounds, voices, techniques, and approaches to preparing, but above all of those sounds is a wonderful excitement about the coming performance. Both the musicians and the audience are looking forward to hearing all of those individual sounds come together to produce one beautiful piece of music. That air of anticipation is a wonderful thing to enjoy.

Over the past few weeks, I have had the opportunity to visit all of our ETAA campuses, working together with our Principals, teachers, and staff as we started our new school year. Just like the moments before a concert, I love the sounds of campuses

getting underway: happy, joyful students in their classrooms and moving around between classes; teachers sharing and planning with great concern and technical expertise; the earnest conversations of our Principals as they oversee the whole operation. And rising above all of those sounds is the anticipation and excitement that soon this concert will begin, and the music we make is called LEARNING!

The wonderful thing about a music performance is that we have gotten through the warmup process and the concert begins, we see that everyone in

the group is special and has an important job to do. One may be the principal soprano vocalist, the second bass violinist, the first chair clarinetist, or a specialist who plays a particular type of percussion. But in the moment in time when everyone is called to share their particular gift, their unique voice, everyone becomes important to the outcome: we are making music.

We are one voice! In that process, everyone is important, and every contribution is valuable. In the same way, in the great symphony of learning, there is no unimportant job, no lesser role.

Everyone has an important role to play, and everyone’s responsibility is to pay attention, stay focused, and remember that everyone in the symphony of learning matters. In the moment they are called upon, whether student, teacher, or leader, we need them to accomplish their assigned task so our symphony can produce a concert of learning. From our smallest pre-K students to our mightiest Middle School teachers, everyone is important and everyone’s contribution to learning is precious.

As we participate together in the wonderful ETAA symphony of learning, let’s celebrate the importance of everyone who will play a role in this year’s great performance. Together, we will achieve the most wonderful concert of learning outcomes.

I am excited about this new school year because I know this year, we will accomplish great things together. Let the concert begin.

— Brian Zeimer, Ph.D., PA is East Texas Advanced Academies CEO and Chief Learner. East Texas Advanced Academies is an SB 1882 Partnership of Longview ISD.

Lattier’s class enjoyed a good camping treat

After finishing a book study on A Camping Spree With Mr. McGee, Mrs. Lattier’s 4th graders enjoyed “Camp Read A Lot” and ended their adventure with smores!

Lobo FFA students earn awards at two competitions

Several of our Lobo FFA cattle students made an impressive showing at the Pewitt FFA Alumni Jackpot event. Join us in congratulating these talented students on their outstanding performance:

Landen Melton: Reserve Brahman and 1st in class with his two Brahman Heifers.

Penelope Taylor: 1st in class with her Brahman heifer.

Ashley Gilbert: 1st in class with her Commercial Heifer, 1st in class with her Charolais, 2nd with her Angus, and 5th with her Chianina.

Bellari Moyer: 2nd in class with her Santa Gertrudis.

Emma Francis: 3rd in class with her Brahman.

Our goat team also participated in the Gilmer FFA’s Labor Day Blowout. Please join

us in congratulating these students for their excellent performance:

Dylan: 2nd in class with Dixie.

Gunner: 3rd in class with Champagne.

Dylan: 3rd in class with Simon.

We are eagerly looking forward to a successful year ahead!

ZIEMER

All district campuses are now IB Authorized

Starting this year, all Longview ISD campuses are International Baccalaureate Authorized.

“That is a pretty unique distinction for our district.

We are one of, if not the only district in the entire state that is fully IB Authorized,” said LISD Chief of Schools Mr. John Wink . “Longview is also the only district in Texas that is all charter, all Montessori, and all IB.”

As listed on the IB website, “IB learners are: encouraged to think critically and solve com-

plex problems, drive their own learning, a core part in educational programmes that can lead them to some of the highest-ranking universities around the world, more culturally aware through the development of a second language, able to engage with people in an increasingly globalized, rapidly changing world.”

As Mr.Wink says, the idea of IB is to develop the whole child, not just to be educated, but to have an impact on the

community as a whole. To remain IB Authorized, campuses must be reauthorized every three to four years. To get the entire district to this level, teachers that were not yet IB trained were brought up to the IB level.

“We are working right now to develop a professional development plan to continue to

provide training to our teachers to maintain their IB certification. Right now, we are working on Career Programme certification at the high school. We have currently have the Diploma Programme,” Mr. Wink said.

“That’s the top, that’s the globally recognized diploma that puts students in the front of the line at any college in the U.S. Now we are working on the Career Programme. That is geared more towards the Career and Technology Education world, preparing students for career certifications and similar things. Very few schools in the country have a CP program. Right now, we are in the middle of the high school being authorized as a CP campus.”

STAAR scores see dips , improvements

While the STAAR rankings will not be out until the last week of October, the individual scores for district campuses have been released. Some schools saw improvements, while others saw a drop in their scores.

For the elementary campuses, scores from the last school year compared to previous years saw a dip due to an increase in what was graded upon.

“We saw drops in our elementary reading scores because last year was reading only. This year was reading, writing, editing, and revising. So 50 percent of the tests were over skills that had not been assessed in the past,” said Mr. John Wink, the Chief of Schools for LISD. “Because writing was new, the scores may give the perception that our kids didn’t grow. So when we see our student growth being low, that’s because it’s an apples to oranges comparison. If you looked at the reading by itself, it would show that we made decent growth. Because writing was new this year, it gives the perception that our schools didn’t do a good job.”

Making it harder still for the teachers and students was that the construct of the writing test did not come out until August of last year, after school had already started.

“The Texas Education Agency kept sending out update after update of the writing test all the way through January of 2023,” Mr. Wink said. “We were over half-way through the school year by that point. So in other words, the rules of the

STAAR|Continued to page 15

Latest news from the garden LOBO GARDEN

By James Beasley Coordinator

As everyone knows, the month of August has been exceptionally hot. In fact, according to extrem eweatherwatch.com, East Texas has seen 21 days of over 100 degree heat as of August 17th. In contrast, 2011 had a total of 73 days that reached 100 degrees or more. So even though it has been very hot in recent weeks, we are extremely thankful that it has not been as hot as 2011 was.

In some ways the summer

heat has made our fall corn and squash grow extremely well. Our lettuce seedlings however are eagerly awaiting the arrival of cooler weather before they can

thrive and be transplanted into the garden.

The garden staff and I are very pleased to announce that the production totals for the year

were 10,827.9 pounds. We started the year with the goal of reaching 10,000 pounds, so we are very grateful for the work that God has done in the garden. Some of the totals by type include over 2000 lbs. of cantaloupes, 1097 lbs. of squash, 1182 lbs. of watermelons and 752 lbs of sweet corn. As we look forward to cooler weather, we are making plans to plant turnip greens, lettuce, green beans and tomatoes around the middle of September. We humbly ask that you pray for rain, and for God’s peace to rest in the garden.

Get to know gardener Tony Baker

Interview with LISD Farm to Table gardener Mr. Tony Baker.

Born in Midland, Texas back in 1971 Mr. Tony Baker has always been a hard working individual. After graduating from Longview High School in 1991, Tony attended Kilgore College and Tyler Junior College where he learned about the emerging field of electronics and telecommunications.

Soon afterwards he found himself at the leading edge of the field, when he started working for Alcatel Network Systems (now part of Nokia)

Did you know?

1. A nut is not a nut. Peanuts are not nuts, but legumes related to beans and lentils.

2. The fastest-growing woody plant in the world is bamboo, which can grow 3 feet per day.

3. A cluster of bananas is called a hand.

4. One of the original wonders of the world was a garden - the famed Hanging Gardens of Babylon (inforum.com 2023)

where he worked for several years.

After his stint with Alcatel, Mr. Baker decided to start working for the Longview Independent School District in various capacities.

In total, Mr. Baker has been with the district for over thirteen years. For the last 15 months however Tony has been a valuable member of the district garden staff.

BAKER

WEEK BY WEEK SPORTS

As of this writing (Friday night, Sept. 8th) the Longview Lobos have wrapped up non-district play with backto-back wins over Marshall and Tyler-Legacy, after dropping their season opener against McKinney High.

Here’s a brief look at the results of the season thus far...

LONGVIEW 21 McKinney 23

MCKINNEY — The Longview Lobos opened their 2023 football season with a closely contested battle against

the McKinney Lions, falling short 21-23 at McKinney ISD Stadium.

In a defensively intense game, McKinney secured 17 first downs to Longview’s 8, showcasing offensive dominance.

Longview’s ground game totaled 168 rushing yards, with Taylor Tatum leading at 129 yards. In the air, the Lobos recorded 190 passing yards, with standout Dakaylen Reese accounting for 160 of those yards.

Despite effort, Longview trailed McKinney throughout. Key plays included a 32-yard Tatum-to-Reese touchdown pass and Tatum’s impressive

Lobos|Continued to page 13

RAMBLIN’ KING

Lobo alum shines in debut for Georgia Tech

ATLANTA — Former Longview High star Haynes King shined in his Georgia Tech debut, throwing for 313 yards and three touchdowns Friday night at Mercedes-Benz Stadium. But Louisville rallied for a 39-34 victory over the Yellow Jackets in the season opener.

King, who led Longview to a Texas state championship in 2018, competed 19 of 32 passes with one interception.

The redshirt sophomore hooked up with Chase Lane on a 48-yard TD and later threw a 5-yard score to Eric Singleton Jr.

King was a three-sport star at Longview, also excelling in basketball and track. He amassed a 37-2 record as a starter in high school. King transferred to Georgia Tech from Texas A&M.

ATLANTA — Haynes

King passed for 290 yards and four touchdowns as Georgia Tech bounced back from a season-opening loss to beat South Carolina State 48-13 on Saturday.

The Longview native completed 21 of 29 passes before giving way to let Zach Pyron in the fourth quarter as the Yellow Jackets (1-

KING

District to honor Distinguished Alumni

Bob Cohen, Lisa Supercinski Muller, Cherika Morrison Johnson nominated

Longview Independent School District on Friday, October 13, will honor three accomplished former students during the annual Distinguished Alumni festivities.

This year’s Distinguished Alumni are Bob Cohen (Class of 1965), Dr. Lisa Supercinski Muller (Class of 1986), and Cherika Morrison Johnson (Class of 1995).

Events are set to begin at 9:30 a.m. on the 13th with the Longview ISD Foundation commemorative brick presentation at the Lobo Foundation Plaza (near the home entrance to Lobo Stadium).

An 11:00 a.m. reception at the Mickey Melton Center will be followed by a program.

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

Tickets for the luncheon are $20 ($160 for a table) but only limited seating is still available, so make your reservations TODAY! To order, call Kacy Swaim at 903-381-2235.

BOB COHEN

Bob Cohen graduated from Longview High School in 1965, where he was Vice President of his class and President of the Key Club. He attended Northwestern University, graduating in 1969 with a Bachelor of Science in Speech degree. After volunteering with the Peace Corps in Korea, Bob returned to Texas, earning a Master’s degree in film from the University of Texas at Austin in 1974. He married and relocated to Japan, becoming a Museum of Modern Art Film Center scholar. Bob earned a Ph.D. in film from UCLA, specializing in Japanese cinema. He wrote extensively on the subject, with his work still being published today.

Bob spent several years teaching at UCLA and UC Santa Barbara before becoming the first resident scholar at the American Film Institute. In LA, he entered the film business as Development Director for Lawrence Schiller Productions and ultimately became a screenwriter. Bob won the prestigious Nichol Fellowship in Screenwriting for “The Good Ole Boy,” inspired by his Longview upbringing.

After working on multiple screenplays, Bob turned to photography, another lifelong passion. His photographs were featured in shows in Los Angeles and Kansas City, with his images of Jewish cemeteries in Texas now part of the Briscoe Center for American History collection at UT Austin. Bob passed away in 2021. His beloved wife of 48 years, Nancy, and their adult son, Aaron, live in Los Angeles, California.

DR. LISA SUPERCINSKI MULLER

Dr. Lisa Supercinski

Muller joined Pryor Public Schools as superintendent in July 2021, after serving as Associate Superintendent for Instructional Services at Jenks Public Schools. Before moving into administration, Lisa was a teacher and instructional coach in Texas and Oklahoma, as well as an academic principal at Jenks High School.

Raised in Longview, Lisa graduated from Longview High School in 1986 and is the daughter of Frank and Becky Supercinski. She holds a Bachelor’s degree in Curriculum and Instruction from Texas A&M, a Master’s in Administration and Supervision from the University of Houston, and a Doctorate in Educational Administration from the University of Oklahoma. Lisa is also an adjunct professor at OU, instructing doctoral students in leadership.

In 2021, the Cooperative Council for Oklahoma School Administration named Lisa Assistant Superintendent of the Year. The OU Jeannine Rainbolt College of Education honored her as Outstanding Graduate Student in 2014. Lisa has published articles in education journals and presented at national conferences.

Beyond her career, Lisa is involved in

community service. She is a member of the Junior League of Tulsa, a Leadership Tulsa graduate, and a board member for Resonance Center for Women. Married for over 30 years, Lisa and her husband Frank have three adult children and a grandchild.

CHERIKA MORRISON JOHNSON

Cherika Morrison Johnson, a 1995 graduate of Longview High School, earned an Associate degree from Kilgore College, a Business Administration degree from LeTourneau University, and a Master’s in Leadership from Grand Canyon University. She has been a licensed Real-

Alumni|Continued to page 13

COHEN

64-yard touchdown run in the third quarter.

As the game closed, Longview fought back. A 74yard Tutt-to-Reese pass and a successful Monsivais kick brought them close, but McKinney’s Cole Dauper secured victory with a 27-yard field goal.

LONGVIEW 48 Marshall 7

MARSHALL — Longview dominated the Marshall Mavericks with a final score of 48-7 at Maverick Stadium in Week 2 non-district action.

The Lobos earned 22 first downs to Marshall’s 6, rushing for nearly 300 yards while holding Marshall’s to just 50 yards. Longview led through the air as well, passing for 162 yards to Marshall’s 87.

Key moments included Andrew Tutt’s 1-yard scoring run, followed by John Monsivais’

ALUMNI |Continued from page 12

tor since 2007 and obtained her Broker’s license in 2016, when she opened Johnson Realty in Longview.

Cherika is dedicated to community service and giving back. She is a member of Junior League of Longview, the Longview ISD Foundation board, a 2017 Leadership Longview graduate, and a member of Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority, Inc. She has served on the City of Longview Housing Advisory Board, and ArtsView Children’s Theatre board, mentored with Partners in Prevention, and volunteered with Habitat for Humanity, the American Heart Association, and the Longview Association of Realtors.

In 2016, Cherika was honored as a Longview Regional Medical Center Star Over Longview for her community service. In 2018, she co-founded the Phenomenal WAY Foundation, which provides scholarships to graduating African-American seniors. To date, they have awarded $20,000 in scholarships to 20 students. In 2019, Cherika was named Realtor of the Year.

Cherika, daughter of John and Ella Morrison, has been married to Roderick Johnson for 23 years. They have 3 sons and reside in Longview, where she enjoys spending time with family and traveling to watch her sons pursue their passions.

successful kick, tying the game at 7-7 in the first quarter. Taylor Tatum’s 53-yard run and Ethan Harrison’s 32-yard touchdown pass from Tutt further solidified Longview’s lead.

Stat leaders included Tatum with 136 yards rushing, Dekaylen Reese with 50 yards receiving, and Kason Brooks leading tackles with 9.

Longview’s defense showcased strength with tackles for loss by Darryl Dolly, Daedrion Garrett, Billy Smith, and Chris Wilder. Smith and Wilder also recorded sacks.

LONGVIEW 28

Tyler Legacy 7

LONGVIEW — The Lobo offense scored four touchdowns in six first-half drives, powering Longview to a 28-7 halftime lead over Tyler Legacy before Friday’s non-district game was called due

to lightning.

Longview — playing its home opener — capitalized on big runs by Taylor Tatum, who rushed for scores of 11 and 4 yards in the first quarter. Tatum finished with 57 yards on nine carries.

Legacy quarterback Luke Wolf answered with a 2-yard rushing TD to cut it to 14-7, but the Lobos responded right away as Kelvin Washington plowed in from 4 yards out. Quarterback Andrew Tutt then hit Dakaylen Reese for a 4-yard score with 10 seconds left before halftime.

Tutt connected on his first five passes, finishing 5 of 5 for

132 yards and the TD to Reese. The Lobos averaged 7.1 yards per carry behind Tatum’s hard running.

Legacy managed just 26 yards rushing on 20 attempts against Longview’s staunch defense. The team will open its district schedule Sept. 15 by hosting rival Lufkin.

www.LISD.org/bond

FOUNDATION

Campus initiative accepting applications

By Kay Ray Executive Director

The Board of Directors of the Longview ISD Foundation, Inc. proudly announces the seventeenth annual Campus Initiative Grant Program. Working with campus educators, LISD principals may apply for funding up to $5,000 for initiatives unique to the individual campuses. These initiatives must complement and align with Campus Improvement Plans and the LISD District Improvement Plan.

The Longview ISD Founda-

tion is proud to offer this grant initiative that will provide additional funding to maximize

Foundation Announces John W. Harrison, Jr. grant

The 2024 John W. Harrison, Jr. Academic Field Trip Grant will fund academic field trips for fourth and fifth grade students and middle school students directly related to the Texas Essential Knowledge and Skills and student expectations for the subject and grade. Funding not otherwise available for such projects will be funded up to $7,000.00.

The Foundation will partner with the campus’s PTA, PTO, campus community partner, or other campus funding source through the budget to ensure that the trip is funded as needed.

The academic field trip grants are due to Kay Ray, Foundation executive director, by October 10, 2023, so that funding can be granted by December 1 to facilitate campus

winners making their travel plans for the spring semester.

Through the John W. Harrison, Jr. Academic Field Trip, elementary students have visited the Perot Museum in Dallas and NASA in Houston to enhance classroom learning in math and science and Sky Ranch in Van, Texas, and SciPort Discover Center in Shreveport, Louisiana to enhance earth science learning, while middle school students have visited the capitol building, the Lyndon Baines Johnson Presidential Library, the Bullock Museum of Texas History, the Texas Military Museum in Austin, iFly in McKinney, the Stephen F. Austin State University Planetarium, the Caldwell Zoo, and Texas State Technical Institute to enhance

Annual Green Out set for September 8

The Longview ISD Foundation will host the Big Green Victory Line at the Green Out game on Friday, September 8, when the Longview Lobos host the Tyler Legacy Red Raiders for the home opener at Lobo Stadium at 7:30 PM.

Lobo fans wearing their 2023 Green Out t-shirts are invited to join the Big Green Victory Line to cheer on the Lobos as they take the field for the annual rivalry game. Through the annual Green Out t-shirt sale, the Longview ISD Foundation raises funds for

this grant program, targeting overall campus improvement, complements the Foundation’s annual Great Rewards for Great Ideas Program, now in its twenty-seventh year.

The Foundation has also funded fifty Campus Initiative Grants for a total of $151,265.68.

Campus Initiative Grant applications are due to Kay Ray, executive director, by October 27, 2023.

educational opportunity in Longview ISD for all students. The Foundation believes that

The Foundation will announce the Campus Initiative Grant recipients in March 2024.

Great Rewards program entry due in October

In 1994, a cross-section of community members who support the Longview Independent School District created the Longview ISD Foundation, Inc. to enrich and maximize the quality of classroom education in the Longview Independent School District. The Foundation’s Board of Directors, businesses, corporations, community members and LISD employees who support the Foundation believe that creative and innovative approaches to teaching can benefit our students and increase student achievement. Because of this belief, the Foundation has created a permanent endowment fund to provide annual funding for the Great Rewards for Great Ideas Grant Program.

will be announced in March 2024.

Applicants may submit a paper application or submit an online application at www.lisdfoundation. org . The Foundation’s grants committee will consider how compatible the applicant’s project/program is with the district’s goals, the school’s or department’s mission or philosophy, campus improvement plan, or district improvement plan when making grant funding decisions. The grants committee’s goal is to fund innovative programs which stimulate thought, active learning, and student achievement or address needs, challenges, and concerns unique to the applicant’s campus.

the Foundation’s annual grant programs that benefit LISD students and educators and enhance academic achievement throughout the district.

To date, the Longview ISD Foundation has returned $1,042.92.00 to LISD classrooms through its three grant programs.

The line will form at 6:50 PM on the home side track. Fans will then move to the field to join the Viewettes for the victory line.

Lobo Nation, get fired up for the Lobos!

The 2024 Great Rewards for Great Ideas Grant Program, specifically designed for classroom teachers, counselors, librarians, and campus nurses across Longview, will fund creative teaching approaches and innovative projects with the hope that the best ones will serve as pilot projects for broader implementation. Funding not otherwise available for such projects will be funded from $100 up to $2,500.

The Foundation is now accepting applications through Friday, October 27, 2023. Grant recipients

If LISD applicants have any questions, they may contact Kay Ray, the Foundation’s executive director, at 903-452-7015 or by email at gray@LISD.org .

The Foundation looks forward to receiving many grant applications from across the district and is proud to provide funding for the twenty-ninth annual Great Rewards for Great Ideas Grant Program.

Since May 1996, the Foundation has funded 770 grants through the Great Rewards for Great Ideas Program, returning $827,092.75

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game were communicated after we started the school year, then adjustments were made throughout the year.”

Mr. Wink also pointed out something else to consider with the College Career Military Readiness score.

“In the past, our score had been an A, but based off of the new calculations, last year’s A rating would now be graded as a C. The state raised the bar tremendously, and there were lots of updates throughout the school year for what qualifies for CCMR. So again, the goal post is shifted. When you see our scores, you have to understand that part of it is that we’re being graded in a game that we didn’t know the rules of until well after we had been through the school year.”

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1) churned out 578 yards of total offense.

“This week we honed in and we preached about execution,” King said. “We still left some stuff out there, and the drives we didn’t finish it was up to us. We messed it up, a lack of execution right there.”

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classroom instruction in history, government, physics, earth science, animal science, and career choices.

The Foundation looks forward to receiving many grant applications from across the district and is proud to provide funding for this annual grant program.

Since fall 2018, the Foundation has funded fourteen John W. Harrison, Jr. Academic Field Trip Grants for fourth and fifth grade and middle school students for a total of $61,733.74.

Through its three grant programs, the Longview ISD Foundation has returned a grand total of $1,042,092.19 to LISD classrooms and campuses in its twenty-eight-year history.

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to Longview ISD classrooms, enabling innovative teachers, counselors, librarians, and nurses to create new educational programs or to enhance existing ones so that they can provide the best instruction possible to all students. These grants have funded programs and projects for students of all ability levels and in a variety of disciplines. In addition to strengthening academics, the grants have also funded projects in music, art, technology, character education, health and physical education, guidance and counseling, and STEAM education.

OBITUARIES

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

Vernon Richard Wade Jr

Vernon Richard Wade, Jr., beloved husband, father, and grandfather, went to heaven peacefully on August 23, 2023. Born on April 20, 1950, in Longview, Texas, to Frankie and Vernon Richard Wade, Sr., he grew up in Longview and spent a few years in Odessa, before returning to Longview.

A 1968 graduate of Longview High School, he was a member of the Lobo football team and remained a die-hard LHS Lobo fan and season ticket-holder for almost 40 years.

At LHS, Richard met the love of his life, Margaret Ann Dennis, and married her on August 6, 1971

After graduating from Stephen F. Austin State University with a degree in accounting, Richard held many jobs, which included many years of experience in the banking business and financial planning, before returning to the accounting business, working alongside his wife, father-in-law, and eventually his son in the family accounting business, Dennis-Wade Associates. In retirement, he loved his time working at Louis Morgan Drugs #4.

Richard’s No. 1 love by far was his family. He enjoyed spending time with Margaret, his children, grandchildren, and numerous extended family members.

Richard also loved baseball. Later in life,

Bertha Nell Cardwell

he umpired more than 1,500 Little League, high school and college games, spanning a period of more than 20 years.

For many years, Richard was active in the leadership at First Methodist Church of Longview. He and Margaret cherished the relationships they made, especially those from their Grace Lowery Sunday School Class.

Preceding him in death were his parents, Frankie Ruffino and Vernon Richard Wade, Sr.; his granddaughter, Lindsey Paige Tabor, of Wylie, TX; his grandparents, and numerous others.

Survivors include his wife of more than 52 years, Margaret Dennis Wade, of Longview; his daughter and son-in-law, Amanda and Jeff Tabor of Wylie, TX; his son, Derek Wade of Longview, TX; granddaughter and husband Brittany and Mason Knapp, of Caddo Mills, TX; granddaughter Danica Wade of Longview, TX; sister and brother-in law, Brenda and Gene Fowler of Richland Hills, TX, and their children and grandchildren; sister Wilma Pace of Port Arthur, TX; sister-in law and husband Aliece and Mike Scott of Longview, TX, and their children and grandchildren; and numerous nieces, nephews, cousins, and other family members.

A memorial will be held at First United Methodist Church of Longview, 400 N. Fredonia, Longview, TX, at 11:00 am on Thursday, August 31, 2023. In lieu of flowers, the family asks that you consider on donation to First United Methodist Church of Longview Fine Arts fund. Donations can be made at the address above.

Billy

Eugene Parr

Billy Eugene Parr, 79, of Longview, passed away on September 5, 2023. He was born September 26, 1943, in Waco, to Alton and Bobbie Parr. A service to honor his life will be held Saturday, September 23, at 2pm at Longview First United Methodist Church. There will be a time of visitation after the service.

He leaves behind his wife, Linda Dianne Parr. Dianne is a beloved recent LISD retiree who served the district for more than 25 years. Our thoughts and prayers are with Dianne and her family during this time of bereavement. Billy and Dianne shared more than 57 years of matrimony. Please remember to keep this dear heart in your thoughts and prayers as she endures this heavy loss.

In lieu of flowers, memorials can be made to the Asbury House at 320 S Center St Longview, TX 75601.

CARDWELL

Bertha Nell Cardwell died Sept 1 with her devoted husband and family near by. She was born in Nolan Tx. She married her high school sweetheart, Jimmy Art Cardwell in 1953. They had three children, Bryant, Becky and JD. She was a wonderful wife, devoted mom, grandmother and great grandmother. She leaves behind her husband Jimmy Cardwell, daughter Becky Marino Falgout and husband Louis, son JD Cardwell and wife Debbie. Her

grandchildren Travis and Alicia Cardwell; Jason and Nicole Cardwell; Trent and Sarah Marino; Morgan and Johnny Bebeau; Brittany and Jason Kelly; and Tyler Cardwell. Her great grand children Caraline, Brayton, Caleb, Adelyn, Nolan, Nora, Sadie, Samuel, Ellee, and her sister Winona Thompson. She is preceded in death by her son Bryant Cardwell. In lieu of flowers the family would appreciate a donation to your favorite charity or the East Texas Alzheimer’s Association.

Funeral services for Mrs. Cardwell were held at the Chapel of Rader Funeral Home in Longview on Tuesday, Sep. 5, at 12pm. A burial followed on Thursday at Sweetwater Cemetery in Sweetwater, TX.

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

“Blessed are those who mourn, for they shall be comforted.”

—

5:4

Board meeting set for October 15

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

The next regular meeting is tentatively scheduled for 6 p.m. on Monday, Sep. 18, at the ESC building. The following regular board meeting is tentatively set for October, Nov. 15, at the ESC building.

For more information about the LISD meetings go to LISD.org. Agendas and Minutes can also be found at the website, as well as information on financial transparency.

City of Longview Cultural Activities Advisory Commission to meet Sep. 21

Persons with disabilities who plan to attend this meeting and who may need auxiliary aid or services are requested to contact the City Manager’s office at 903237-1021 at least two days before this meeting so that appropriate arrangements can be made. Para ayuda en espanol, por favor llame al 903-237-2731.

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lowest debt-to-assessed value ratios at 2.3 percent. Additionally, LISD received a perfect score from the Financial Integrity Rating System of Texas (FIRST) which holds school districts accountable for their financial management.

“We have spent much time studying the needs in our district and how best to serve our students. We are excited for voters to have the opportunity to make their voices heard this November,” said Mr. Michael Tubb , Longview ISD board president.

Safety is the number one priority for Longview ISD and is the driving force behind this bond proposal.

“More than anything, we want to ensure our kids and staff are safe each day at school. In addition to that, we strive every day to provide the best possible learning environment for every student that walks through our doors. We hope that residents will take the time to learn more about the projects proposed, our tax rates, the other issues on the ballot, and ask questions before casting their vote in this election,” said Dr. Wayne Guidry, Assistant Superintendent of Finance.

In accordance with state law, the bond referendum will be split into two propositions as follows:

Proposition A: $291,894,025

• Additional Safety and Security at Each Campus

• New Early Childhood Center

• Longview High School Renovation

• New Career and Technical Education (CTE) Building

• Early Graduation HS Renovation

• Other campus improvements and solar projects

• New Bus Barn

• Life Cycle Replacements

• Lobo Coliseum Improvements

Proposition B: $67,821,235

• New Multi-Purpose Student Facility

• Soccer/Baseball/Tennis Renovations

If approved, all Longview ISD campuses will receive safety and security updates, and improvements or renovations will impact all students and staff.

Any LISD resident who is registered to vote may cast a ballot in this election. Voters will be asked to vote “for” or “against” two separate propositions. The deadline to register to vote is Tuesday, October 10.

Residents can register for the first time, update their registration, or simply check to see if they are registered at GreggCountyVotes.com or VoteTexas.gov. You may also visit any LISD campus to pick up a voter registration application.

Early Voting is Oct. 24–Nov. 3 and Election Day is Tuesday, Nov. 7th.

LISD officials will schedule informational meetings and be out in the community to share more project information and

answer questions. Dates and details for those meetings, as well as general bond information, will be shared through the district’s regular com -

munication channels. In the meantime, residents are encouraged to visit www.LISD. org/bond for more information.

Lobo graduates from elite state program

AUSTIN — The American Legion, Department of Texas, announced that Dominic E. Pistone of Longview High SchoolLongview, TX has graduated from the American Legion Texas Boys State. While at Texas Boys State, Dominic was elected to the offices of precinct delegate and county delegate, and he campaigned for the office of railroad commissioner. He also was campaign manager for a colleague that ran for state party chairman. Dominic was sponsored by American Legion Post 232 of Longview, TX.

Begun in 1935, Boys State is a unique program that educates future leaders about government, civics, and patriotism in a “learn by doing” environment. Each delegate has just finished his junior year of high school and was hand-picked by teachers, counselors, and local American Legion posts throughout Texas to attend this one-week seminar.

During the week, the delegates were evenly split into fictional parties of the Nationalist and Federalists. Each party drafted party platforms, elected party officials, nomi-

nated candidates via primary elections, and contested a general election against the rival party and its candidates. The delegates ran for many kinds of offices including state, district, county, and city offices. Those elected to the House of Representatives and Senate spent the week drafting, debating, and passing bills on a wide range of social and economic issues.

This year the delegates heard from dozens of distinguished guest speakers, including Texas Railroad Commissioner Christi Craddick, U.S. Army Judge Advocate General Stuart W. Risch, and several members of the Texas House

of Representatives and Texas Senate speaking on topics of leadership and public service.

On Wednesday, June 14, Texas Boys State enjoyed a

parade from the University of Texas at Austin campus to the Texas State Capitol, where they toured the building and dropped in on their hometown representatives’ offices.

For more information on American Legion Texas Boys State, visit www.TexasBoys State.com

www.LISD.org/bond