“Education is learning what you didn’t even know you didn’t know.” ― Daniel J. Boorstin
Vol. VI November 2021
Sharing the good news about Longview Independent School District
MARCHING MACHINE Lobo band earns 72nd straight First Division rating
T
he legendary Big Green Marching Machine continued their decade’s tradition of earning a First Division (Superior) rating at the UIL Region Marching Contest! This marks their DANIEL 72nd win, which goes back to the very first year of the competition in 1949. The 72 straight wins is a state record! “I believe I can speak for all of us when I say Band|Continued to page 19
Take a sneak peak at a letter to be r ead in 2070, written in 2021. See Opinion on Page 2
Hudson PEP is ranked as the 5th best elementary school in Texas. See Hudson on Page 4
Coach King believes that the Lobos are still in the hunt for a playoff r un. See Sports on Page 11
Check out the latest social media posts that you may have missed. See Social on Page 18
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THE LONGVIEW VOICE — November 2021
OPINION
Giving thanks for what we have By Dustin Taylor The holiday season is fast approaching. While getting swept up in seeing family members, eating far too many festive meals, and gift-giving, let us try to remember what we should also be thankful for. As a graduate from Longview High School and an employee of Longview ISD, I say that we have a lot to be thankful for in our district: From giving thanks for our amazing teachers, to the work that Lobo alums regularly do for the district, there is a lot of thanks to go around.
TRENT WILLIAMS
For those who may not know, current 49er Trent Williams is a graduate from LHS that for years now has returned in the summer to his childhood home to help make a difference in the community. The annual Silverback Football Camp that he hosts at the high school is designed to help develop local athletes and give back to Longview in a form that he didn’t have while growing up. Mr. Williams’ yearly return to help aspiring student-athletes shows that not everyone who
makes it big will forget their roots. Thank you Mr. Williams for helping our youths.
as with their student film. Not long after, they had the chance to travel to New York City and enter a worldwide competition! 72 YEAR Out of 1,500 submisTRADITION sions, the Lobos ranked On Saturday, Oct. 16, in the top 10! That’s the Big Green Marchsimply astounding! ing Machine received TAYLOR They were able to their 72nd consecutive compete and attend the First Division (Superior) rating competition thanks to our comat the UIL Region Marching munity coming together to doContest! nate money that allowed them This is an amazing, state to make the trip and have what record achievement! It deserves likely was a once-in-a-lifetime so much thanks to so many difexperience. From local business ferent people. Thank you to all to local teachers and several of the students, parents, band local community members chipdirectors, and more who made ping in, these students were it possible up to this point, as able to show that even here in well as everyone involved for lil ol’ East Texas, the future of this latest win! movies can be born. Receiving 72 wins in a row is Read more about this on Page 5. simply amazing. Every single COVID RATES person who made this possible The current number of active should be proud of their comcases of students and faculty mitment and I thank them for with COVID-19 has seen a drashowing the rest of the state matic decrease recently. Within how great Longview ISD is. Read more about this on Page 1. the first week of school starting this semester, there were more LOBOS TAKE TO active cases in the district than THE BIG APPLE in the first three months of the Our very own LoboView 2020 fall semester. Films won second place in Tex-
Thanks to measures taken by the district, we have seen a sharp decline in the numbers. Not only are our numbers dropping, but LISD is the only local district that appears to be doing so well, thanks to the measures put in place. As a school district, our number 1 concern is the safety of our students and we appear to be doing just that.
BACKPACK PROGRAM
The BackPack Program is a wonderful initiative that helps provide food to children during the weekend who otherwise may not have enough. The program is looking for community members who wish to help. Providing a donation of $160 will give one student extra food for the rest of the school year. This is such an amazing cause, and to everyone who has already donated, thank you so much for helping to make sure that no student in our district will go hungry over the weekend. Read more about this on Page 4. — An award-winning journalist and 2007 graduate of LHS, Dustin Taylor is the Managing Editor for The Longview Voice.
A letter to those 50 years from now By Matthew Prosser Sometime in the year 2070, the people of Longview are going to open up a time capsule that was buried this past month at the Central Fire Station. Inside that time capsule are various historical artifacts and Longview-centric souvenirs to help future residents have a better understanding of what life is like in our current place and time. I helped donate some items as well. Longview ISD contributed a Lobo helmet signed by Coach John King, a football signed by the members of the 2018 State Championship team, several issues of The Longview Voice newspaper, and a letter from me. Here’s an excerpt: “I am writing you from a time filled with petty squabbles and vicious rhetoric that exists almost entirely online through the disconnect of social media. I hope, if some progress has been made in
the next 50 years, we have those who come 50 years become people who talk after your time? to each other instead of I will have long since at each other. I hope you shuffled off this mortal have learned from the coil by then, but I hope mistakes of our time and my contemporaries and made Longview a better I leave you with some place. wisdom about how best We could have fed to move forward.” everyone, but we did not. There’s more to this, PROSSER but I’ll leave that for We could have eased the woes of our wretched you all to read 50 years poor, but we did not. Many of the from now. I imagine it will be a sick we could have healed, but strange day for my children (and again, we did not. grandchildren?), and they will There remained too much of likely read my pompous words the old spites and enmities for us with no shortage of amusement. to yet see ourselves as clearly as However, I would like to put we should. Perhaps your time will the challenge to you all, the stuhave forgotten that feeling so far dents, employees, and families of that my words will stir only faint- Longview ISD. If you are reading est echos of antiquated thought. this column right now, I am exI hope that is so. tending the invitation for you to But before you look back at us submit your own “letter to the fu— your ancestors — with judgture.” You can send your letter to ment and condemnation, I also the LISD Community Relations ask that you take a close look at department via email: ask@ your own decisions, and consider LISD.org or deliver them to the how they might be assessed by LISD administration building:
1301 E. Young Street. We may publish your letter in a future issue and, while I cannot guarantee they will be opened ceremoniously exactly 50 years in the future, I can say they will be preserved with the rest of the Internet on the district website. If you’d rather not have your thoughts published for the world to see, I do hope you at least consider your own life as a story that will be read in the future. While our lives can only be truly understood while looking backward, they must be lived moving forward. — An award-winning journalist and photographer, Matthew Prosser is Communications Director for Longview Independent School District.
THE LONGVIEW VOICE — November 2021
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C I N ASEYOU MIS SED I T Zonar MyView
Longview ISD is extremely excited to introduce our newest safety measure to help students get to and from school safely. Zonar My View is a safety system installed in all Longview ISD buses that has GPS locators that will provide real time location updates to parents as students arrive to and from school. To hear more about Zonar MyView: https://youtu. be/_TR6iuI1i-4 Students that are bus riders will be given a Zonar MyView badge from their campus on Monday, October 25 or Tuesday, October 26. Students may start scanning their Zonar MyView cards on Wednesday, October 27. Parents will need to set up Zonar MyView Ridership: Download the Zonar MyView app from the App Store or Google Play. Enter the above School Access Code: 75602 Enter your child’s unique student ID. Select the notification method (via the app or via text message).
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!
Gifted and Talented
Referrals are now being accepted for the Longview ISD Gifted and Talented program. For questions regarding Gifted and Talented, please contact Catina Love at clove@lisd.org. Anyone may refer a student for G/T services (i.e. teacher, parent, and/or any other). Complete the referral on the district website or request a hard copy from the school counselor. Referrals are accepted at designated times throughout the school year. Referral Forms can be found here: English Form - https://bit.ly/3vBHT Vx Spanish Form - https://bit.ly/3aV8Bz6 Testing is paper-based, and will take place over a 1-2 day period. Parents will be notified of the dates, times, and location prior to the assessment window.
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THE LONGVIEW VOICE — November 2021
Hudson ranked top 5 in Texas A Longview ISD campus has been named a Top 5 elementary school in Texas by the U.S. News & World Report’s first-ever ranking of the state’s best elementary schools. Hudson PEP Elementary is ranked 5th of 4,446 elementary schools in the entire state, and the only Top 10 elementary campus located in a largely economically-disadvantaged community. Not only that, but Hudson PEP was ranked the No. 2 magnet elementary in Texas, second only to the exclusive William B. Travis Vanguard Academy in Dallas ISD. Mrs. Sue Wilson, Principal of Hudson PEP Elementary, lauded the excellent educators on her campus who help create such a loving and high-achievWILSON ing culture of excellence.
“It is an honor to work with master teachers that strive to ensure each and every student masters the Texas Essential Knowledge and Skills,” she said. “The teachers are dedicated, our students are outstanding, and the parents/community work with us as partners in their
is exciting to see teachers who want to improve on teaching and learning, and are always seeking to learn new ways to deliver instruction.” With a student enrollment of 596 students in grades 1st through 5th, as of their reporting, U.S. News notes that the school’s minority student enrollment is 56 percent, the highest minority population among the other schools in the Top 10, with 49 percent of students classified as economically disadvantaged. U.S. News & World Report cited 95 percent of Hudson PEP students scoring at or above the proficient level for math and 89 percent scoring at or above that level for reading, as key components to the campus’s overall score. LISD Superintendent Dr. James Wilcox
child’s education.” Mrs. Wilson added that, in addition to teaching to the Texas standards, Hudson PEP is in the process of becoming an International Baccalaureate-certified campus. “I love coming to school evWILCOX ery day in a climate that supports children,” she said. “It Hudson|Continued to page 16
BackPack Program seeks donations The Longview BackPack Program is seeking donations. For $160, a donation will help an LISD student for the rest of the 2021-22 school year. The Backpack Program is a supplement to the East Texas Food Bank. It sends some tasty food home for students, as well as some hygiene products from the Simple Bare Necessities program that was started by LHS student Arya Germanwala. For more information about the Longview BackPack Program, email ask@LISD. org.
Bailey students honor his life, work Everyone had such a great time yesterday, celebrating the life and legacy of Mr. Clarence W. Bailey. We are grateful for his contributions to our school, community, and Longview ISD! The 4th Grade scholars did an outstanding job! TCIS CEO Margaret DaBAILEY vis was present and told the student about the exciting future exhibit that will be installed at the front entrance that shall tell visitors all about Mr. Bailey’s history! We can’t wait to see it!
THE LONGVIEW VOICE — November 2021
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LOBOS AT THE BIG APPLE LoboView Film ranks top in the world
L
oboView Film has been in NYC this week at the All-American High School Film Festival. Their short film “Shadow Walkers” competed against high school short films from all over the nation. Graves told us, “While Shadow Walkers did not win the ultimate award, it was
indeed a banner evening for Longview ISD as our students are no longer just the number 2 film program in the state of Texas, but now are in the top ten in the world, as Shadow Walkers was nominated in the top ten films from 1,500 submissions around the world. Go Lobos!”
District to offer vaccinations at Lobo events Longview ISD will continue to host multiple vaccination clinics throughout the school year, including at varsity home football & volleyball games this season. The next vaccination clinic is set for: • Nov. 5th, 6 p.m. to 8 p.m. at Longview High (cafeteria) Once vaccinated at one of our clinics, participants will receive a Lobo Football or volleyball general admission ticket. These vaccination clinics are not limited to Longview ISD students or staff but are open to the entire community. However, those under the
age of 18 must provide a parental consent form and be accompanied by a legal guardian. Those who have received another vaccination of any kind (including Flu or Shingles) or who have recently tested positive for COVID-19, need to wait and seek their personal physician before receiving a vaccine. There is NO COST for these vaccinations and insurance is NOT required to receive a vaccination. For more information about these events please contact LISD Lead Nurse Ms. Kimberly Dans at 903663-7191.
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THE LONGVIEW VOICE — November 2021
Lobo FFA continues to win big at competitions Longview FFA students competed at the Garrison Invitational LDE contest on Monday, Oct. 11! A special congratulations goes out to Maggie Mayes from Longview High School for winning 2nd in the Job Interview Contest! Another special congratulations goes to Carter, Logan, and Isaiah from Judson for winning 3rd in Jr. Skills Contest! For many of these students, it was their first LDE contest. They learned a lot about what to expect as we work towards our District contest. Every student worked very hard to be here and put their best foot forward! Congratulations to all! Keep watching our page to keep up with how these students compete in their upcoming contests and District in just a few short weeks!
Trustees approve new ‘Virtual Academy’ The Longview ISD Board of Trustees approved creating a remote learning program and asynchronous instructional plan during their regular meeting on Oct. 11th. Mr. John Wink, Coordinator of Policy and New Schools, explained that LISD will utilize the BrightThinker curriculum “in the four core instrucWINK tional areas and any electives required for high school credit.” “The district will provide supports and instruction to students and parents through BrightThinker,” he said. “The LISD Office of Innovation has developed a local remote learning program through asynchronous learning that serves as an option for families which allows students who meet local selection criteria to learn in an asynchronous learning environment.” Mr. Wink said the academy is currently only for students in grades 3rd through 12th, and families who wish to enroll their students in this program must complete an application at LISD.org/virtual/ apply and submit it to their current campus principal by November 1. Senate Bill 15 allows districts to offer a local remote
this to our community.” For more detailed information about the Longview ISD Virtual Academy please go to the website at LISD.org/virtu al. If you have any questions please contact the Office of Innovation at ask@LISD.org or call 903-381-2200.
NATIONAL MERIT SCHOLARS
learning program that provides a virtual course through remote synchronous instruction, asynchronous instruction, or a combination of synchronous and asynchronous instruction, and it allows districts to provide a board-approved local policy to determine the instructional methods and attendance-taking methods for the local remote learning program. Mr. Wink said students enrolled in the virtual academy will be provided with a Chromebook and Internet connection. Students are required to participate in 240 minutes of instruction and must be online from 8 a.m.-12 p.m. each school day. “If there are extenuating circumstances that prevent a student from being online and completing work from 8 a.m. to 12 p.m., the student must communicate with the teacher to inform them of when they will complete the work during the day,” he said.
Students enrolled in the Virtual Academy are permitted to participate in all LISD extracurricular activities, Mr. Wink added. Dr. James Wilcox, LISD Superintendent of Schools, praised Mr. Wink and the Office of Innovation team for their leadership and creativity in WILCOX “bringing this resource to our students and families.” “This is something we’ve been discussing for almost as long as the pandemic,” he said. “Like a lot of districts, we’ve tried to find a way that’s as practical and easy-to-use as possible, not just for our students and families, but our many excellent educators. We’re glad to be able to offer
Board members also recognized Longview High School’s latest National Merit Semifinalists, and National Merit Recognition Award winners: Iniabasi Ekpenyong, Itoro Ekpenyong, Joseph Egbe, Joshua Romero, Micah Howard, Otibhor Ihionkhan, Rylee Hunter, and Trentyn Reid (National African-American Recognition); Josue Chavez, Mason LaMaster, Matthew Guck, Sofia Massare, and Victor Aguilar (National Hispanic Recognition); Isabella Hough, Mason LaMaster, Matthew Guck, Victor Aguilar, and William Blair (National Indigenous Recognition). Dr. Wilcox explained that Longview High School has a long tradition of students receiving these honors, “and these students are an excellent demonstration of what a high caliber of students, families, and teachers we have in this district.” Board|Continued to page 14
THE LONGVIEW VOICE — November 2021
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LISD breaking through language barrier By Marangeli Lopez CBS19
ing Spanish-speaking parents get the information they need to stay up to date on their students’ lives. “For example, when the school board makes decisions on something we have that information in English but we thought it was important for our Spanish-speaking parents to be aware of what the board was deciding on as well,” he said. Rojas also hosts a live broadcast during the varsity soccer games. It’s helped the team get a name in the Hispanic community. “We got a lot of feedback when we go into the community, like at Walmart together as a team or any store, people would point us out and say congrats like you did good,” former Lobo soccer player Alejandro Rojas said. Alejandro is just entering his first year at LeTourneau University, where he was selected to play for the soccer team.
When you look at the demographics for the City of Longview, you won’t be surprised at its diversity. While the primary population is still white non-hispanics at 54 percent, the Hispanic population makes up about 20 percent of the residents. Meanwhile, the largest school district in town, Longview ISD, is home to 40% Hispanic students, that’s more than any other race in the district. It wasn’t until the last couple of years, however, that the district really started expanding its communication to parents. “We felt that there was a huge need in providing them with information that they needed to hear,” communication coordinator Francisco Rojas said. Rojas and the rest of the communication team have spearheaded a Spanish language radio show that is help- LISD|Continued to page 17
TCIS seeks members for Advisory Board Longview ISD’s charter partner Texas Council of International Studies (TCIS) is looking for parents interested in serving and supporting the students in their care. To that end, Mrs. Linda Buie, TCIS Executive Director, is inviting families of students to join their Local Advisory Council, “to be a BUIE vocal presence in our community.” “Local Advisory Council members represent a broad and diverse segment of our community, but they
all have one major feature in common: a desire to serve and support the students and schools of TCIS Longview,” she said. TCIS campuses include Bailey Elementary (formerly South Ward), Ned E Williams Elementary, Hudson PEP Elementary, Foster Middle, Judson Middle, and Longview High. Mrs. Buie explained that the Council meets once a month “for schools to share the happenings on their campuses as well as to be informed about the four International Baccalaureate Programmes, because all TCIS schools will be authoTCIS|Continued to page 15
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THE LONGVIEW VOICE — November 2021
Judson reading club aims to excite By James Boyum KLTV KLTV’s Jamey Boyum talks with Judson Middle School Reading Teacher Patricia Duck about their Bounce Back Reading Club. The program includes a library of new, interesting books designed to get students excited about reading. The donated $20,000 library is so effective most of the club has dramatically increased their reading levels which had been affected at least partially by the COVID-19 pandemic.
Bramlette students get dressed for success Bramlette Steam Academy’s first professional dress day for 2nd graders was a success. Students had the opportunity to meet a Chemical Engineer (Alfonso Puente) and a Processing Engineer ( Armando Juárez).
THE LONGVIEW VOICE — November 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
80
EARLY GRADUATION
BRAMLETTE STEAM ACADEMY
ETX MONTESSORI PREP S. WARD
WARE
422 FM 2751
FOSTER
111 Tupelo Dr.
HUDSON PEP
31 20
NED E. WILLIAMS ELEMENTARY 5230 Estes Pkwy. J.L. EVERHART ELEMENTARY
149
2919 Tryon Rd. NED E. WILLIAMS
HUDSON PEP ELEMENTARY 1311 Lilly St.
SOUTH WARD ELEMENTARY
1011 S Mobberly Ave. JUDSON STEAM ACADEMY 5745 Judson Rd.
FOREST PARK MIDDLE SCHOOL
1644 N Eastman Rd. FOSTER MIDDLE
1504 S Martin Luther King Jr. Blvd. LONGVIEW HIGH SCHOOL
201 E Tomlinson Pkwy. EARLY GRADUATION HIGH SCHOOL 410 S Green St.
Registration Begins Soon Now, it’s your turn to learn more:
Visit ChooseLISD.org or call 903-381-2200. Paid for by the MSAP funds.
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THE LONGVIEW VOICE — November 2021
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SPORTS STILL IN THE HUNT Playoff picture clearing up for Lobos
C
oming up short against Highland Park on the road was a disappointment, but Coach John King believes that his 6-2 Lobos are still in the hunt for a playoff run. “This team is learning to overcome setbacks and battle back from adversity,” he said. “We’ve come a long way from our season opener, but we still have a long way to go to get where we want to be.”
DISTRICT 7-5A OUTLOOK
Longview began District 7-5A play with a rollicking Lobos|Continued to page 17
Lobos win bidistrict championship Congratulations to the Lobo Varsity Tennis team on your Bi-District championship! After that win, they went to the Area playoffs in Corsicana where they also won! The Lobos beat Ennis, 10-4, in the second round of the playoffs. They played Highland Park matchup on Tuesday, Oct. 19. Standouts for the Lobos during their Bi-District win are seniors #1 girl Rachna Edalur, #1 boy Jake chamberlain & #2 Tennis|Continued to page 12
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THE LONGVIEW VOICE — November 2021
Lady Lobo volleyball takes on Marshall The Lady Lobo volleyball team was defeated by Marshall, 3-2, on Tuesday, Oct. 19.
Longview Library mural to be updated Longview Library mural was created in 2001 by Longview High School art students under the direction of Mrs. Ellen Herbert. Longview Library would like to invite Mrs. Herbert and the talented former students who worked on the mural to come in for photo opportunities before it is updated. So please spread the word if you or someone you know worked on this! The mural refresh will start in November. It will also be worked on by creative art students currently at Longview High School. We’ll keep everyone posted on the progress! Message the Longview Public Library for any questions or contact information inquiries. TENNIS |Continued from page 11 girl Dylan Gonzalez, all of whom are undefeated in the playoffs.
BOYS DOUBLES
1. Jake Chamberlain/Erick Van Zyl vs Kozlovsky/ Jacobs 6-3 6-1 2. Luke Archer/Daniel Pelaia vs Gunn/Janousek 6-2 6-3 3. Alec Germanwala/ Jagger Barton vs Sinopoli/ Glenn 7-6(8-6) 6-0
GIRLS DOUBLES
1. Dylan Gonzalez/Rachna Edalur vs Goedrich/Berry 6-4 6-3 2. Namita Reddy/ Shreemayi Undavalli vs Fritzsche/Bagwell 4-6 6-7(57) 3. Sami Jatavalabhulla/ Jasmine Perry vs Bertinetti/Glenn 2-6 2-6
MIXED
1. Nate Roberts/Phoebe
Payne vs Mahone/Collins 6-2 6-2
BOYS SINGLES
1. Jake Chamberlain vs Kozlovsky 6-3 6-1 2. Daniel Pelaia vs Jacobs 7-5 1-4 DNF 3. Erick van Zyl vs Gunn 6-3 5-7 0-3 DNF 4. Luke Archer vs Sinopoly 6-4 2-6 10-3 5. Alec Germanwala vs Janousek 3-6 1-6 6. Nate Roberts vs Glenn
6-4 6-2
GIRLS SINGLES
1. Rachna Edalur vs Goedrich 6-2 6-3 2. Dylan Gonzalez vs Berry 6-2 6-2 3. Namita Reddy vs Fritzsche 1-6 2-6 4. Phoebe Payne vs Bagwell 5-7 2-3 DNF 5. Sydney Singh vs Brown 6-4 0-3 DNF 6. Sami Jatavalabhulla vs Collins 5-7 3-1 DNF
THE LONGVIEW VOICE — November 2021
CHOOSE
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SCHOOL
APPLY NOW
ChooseLISD.org
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THE LONGVIEW VOICE — November 2021
BOARD |Continued from page 6 Mrs. Linda Buie, a longtime educator and current International Baccalaureate director at Longview High explained that the National Merit Scholarship Program BUIE “is an academic competition for recognition and scholarships that began in 1955.” “These semifinalists represent an elite group that makes up less than one percent of high school seniors nationally, and includes the highest-scoring Preliminary SAT test-takers in each state,” she said. Sixteen thousand students from across the country were chosen out of about 1.5 million that enter each year. About 7,500 will receive $2,500 scholarships for the college of their choice.
DISTRICT VAX CLINICS
Mr. Dennis Williams, Assistant Superintendent of Administrative and Pupil Services, reminded board members that the district will continue to host multiple vacciWILLIAMS nation clinics throughout the school year, including at varsity home football & volleyball games this season. The vaccination clinics are set for Oct. 15 and Nov. 5 from 6 p.m. to 8 p.m. in the LHS cafeteria and from 7 a.m. to 9 a.m. Oct. 22 in the LHS library. Once vaccinated at these clinics, participants will receive a Lobo Football or volleyball general admission ticket. These vaccination clinics are not limited to Longview ISD students or staff but are open to the entire community. However, those under the age of 18 must provide a parental consent form and be accompanied by a legal guardian. There is NO COST for these vaccinations and insurance is NOT required to receive a vaccination. Mr. Williams said the district refuses to be passive in the face of this pandemic, “but we want to exhaust every possibility to bring down the risks for our students, employees, and their families.” “After the first week of school, when our students and staff weren’t using masks, we were entering 15-20 positive stu-
to sponsor the Post-87th Legislative Summit; and a donation of $477 from Mrs. Julie Woods to pay off a Viewette bill for a specified student.
IN OTHER BUSINESS
dent cases per day, but the rate slowed down significantly after the mask mandate,” he said. “During these last few weeks we’ve been entering just 3-6 positive cases per week.” Dr. Wilcox agreed, adding that, “We will continue to do everything we can to stop the spread of the virus and keep our students and staff safe.” For more information about these events please contact LISD Lead Nurse Ms. Kimberly Dans at 903-663-7191.
CUSTODIAL SERVICES
Board members also received a presentation on custodial services from Mr. Dennis Williams, Assistant Superintendent of Administrative and Pupil Services. Currently, the district contracts with Southeast Services Corporation (SSC) to provide janitorial services to LISD campuses and facilities. SSC employs 93 people and manages six additional employees who are Longview ISD retained employees, for a total of 99. The latest proposed contract extension has a total cost of $2,998,972 and Mr. Williams estimated that initial start-up costs to bring custodial services back in-house would be at least $5 million. “In addition, there are mitigating factors due to COVID-19 and the current economy,” he said. “This includes supply chain disruptions, worker shortages, and additional PPE (Personal Protection Equipment) needed when custodians have to clean areas where an infected person was known to have been.” As this was only an information item, the board took no action at this time.
FINANCIAL DONATIONS
Board members also approved a donation of $10,000 from the Lobo Football Booster Club for supplies and equipment; a donation of $9,453.20 from the Lobo Baseball Booster Club for new uniforms and equipment; a donation
of $8,000 from the Lobo Golf Booster Club for supplies and equipment; a donation of $5,000 from Texas Bank & Trust, a donation of $2,000 from East Texas Professional Credit Union, $1,000 from an anonymous donor, and $100 each from Randy James Hardin of Hardin Ace Hardware, the Scott Stevens Campaign Fund, and Charles Van Burkleo to help fund the Leroy Romines Memorial Tournament; a donation of $4,405 from the Lobo Swim Booster Club for a Longview Swim Timing System; a donation of $2,500 from the Lobo Football Booster Club for Lobo Basketball signs in the Coliseum; a donation of $2,304 from BSN Sports for new uniforms for the Lobo Track & Field team; a donation of $1,500 from Linebarger, Goggan, Blair, & Sampson law firm, a donation of $750 from East Texas Professional Credit Union, a donation of $150 from Bubba’s 33, a donation of $100 from Pam Mercer McWilliams, and a donation of $50 from Ms. Abby Jester, to help fund the LHS Film Club’s trip to the New York City Film Festival; a donation of $1,500 from Education Research and a donation of $180 from Mr. John York to help support the Longview ISD Backpack Program; a donation of $1,000 from the Texas Association of School Boards
During the course of the meeting, the LISD Board of Trustees also: APPROVED the $249,000 purchase of 278 new classroom computers for LISD Career and Technology Education. Start-Up Grant funds will be allocated for this purchase; APPROVED a $55,000 contract with Mrs. Christa Black of Longview for Professional Development/Mentoring/Coaching and Literacy Services to be provided at TCIS campuses (Clarence W. Bailey, Hudson PEP, and Ned E. Williams elementaries) for 2021-22; RECEIVED updates from Superintendent Dr. James Wilcox on recent Senate Bill 1444 concerning Health Care Legislation in the State of Texas as well as how it stands to impact employee benefits and the Teacher Retirement System; RECEIVED an update on COVID-19 cases, the district Safety Report, and Facilities Update from Mr. Dennis Williams, Assistant Superintendent of Administrative & Pupil Services; APPROVED the nomination of Mr. Keith Honey, Mr. Vance Freeman, and Mrs. Julie Woods to the Gregg Appraisal District Board of Directors; RECEIVED updates from Dr. Craig Coleman on the district’s Office of Innovation and charter partners; APPROVED the Instructional Materials Allotment and TEKS Certification for 2021-22; APPROVED Minutes and Time Use Tracker for the Sept. 13th Regular Meeting; Board|Continued to page 15
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THE LONGVIEW VOICE — November 2021
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City of Longview buries time capsule On Wednesday, Oct. 20, the city of Longview buried the Longview 150 Time Capsule. This marks the final portion of our sesquicentennial celebration! The capsule had items from more than 100 community groups including Longview ISD and will be opened in 50 years.
TCIS |Continued from page 7 rized IB World Schools.” “Our first meeting will be held at 6 p.m. on Thursday, Sept. 30th.For more information about the event, please contact Mrs. Linda Buie, TCIS Executive Director, via email llbuie@LISD.org or call 903-663-1301.“We would like to increase the number of members on the Council this year,” she said. “If you have a child at one of the six schools, or have a vested interest in the schools and would like to serve on the Council, please email me your information.” Texas Council for International Studies is one of three Senate Bill 1882 charter partners operating Longview ISD campuses. SB 1882 is legislation that allows public schools to partner with organizations to operate campuses as charter schools. For more information please visit the LISD website: LISD.org/charters BOARD |Continued from page 14 RECEIVED the Sept. 2021 Financial Statement; and APPROVED Budget Amendment No. 2.
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. Nov. 8.
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OBITUARIES Longview ISD offers our most sincere condolences to our extended Lobo family Sherry Downing McAlister Sherry Downing McAlister of Kilgore TX was born August 2, 1950 in Longview TX to Arthur Lee Downing and Agnes Waisel Gentry. Sherry went to her eternal life on October 8, 2021 where she was greeted by her “Daddy” and grandparents. Sherry graduated in 1968 from Longview High School. In McALISTER 1967 Longview started the Vocational Education Program. She was the first student to be placed in the workforce with East Texas Professional Credit Union where she had a successful career for 47 years, retiring in 2014. She was married to Joe McAlister on May 10, 1974. For 47 years they had a loving relationship. Together they raised two successful children. With Troy, she loved attending his baseball games, tennis matches and other school activities. Eighteen years later, she was blessed with a daughter, Meredith. They made lasting memories on the drive to school and work for many years along with dance recitals, tea parties and all the girly adventures. Sherry’s passion was traveling with family and friends and spending time enjoying her grandchildren’s activities. She was an active member of Christ the King
Catholic Church in Kilgore, serving in many different ministries. Because of her love for Jesus Christ, she influenced many by her faith. She encouraged and cared for others as a daughter, wife, mother and friend. She is preceded in death by her father Arthur, in-laws and grandparents. Left to love and cherish her memory are her husband Joe McAlister; son Troy Wayne Moore and wife Shannan; daughter Meredith Green McAlister; her 95-year-old mother, Waisel, whom she loved dearly and unselfishly cared for her well-being; brother Jerry Downing and wife Debbye; grandchildren, Brilee Moore, Traven Myers and wife Nikki; great grandchildren, Rory and Sonny Myers; special niece Kendriel Presley and husband Roy along with many other nieces, nephews, aunts, uncles and the Whitehurst & Gentry families that Sherry loved dearly. Mass of Christian Burial was held at Christ the King Catholic Church on Wednesday, October 13, 2021, at 2:00 pm. Burial followed at Kilgore Cemetery. Rosary service was held at Rader Funeral Home Chapel in Kilgore on Tuesday, October 12, 2021, at 6:00 pm. Visitation immediately followed. In lieu of flowers, donations can be made in memory of Sherry to the Building Fund at Christ the King Catholic Church, 1407 Broadway Blvd., Kilgore TX 75662.
HUDSON |Continued from page 4 praised the culture of excellence that exists across the board at Hudson PEP. “It’s a testament to the quality leadership of Mrs. Sue Wilson and her administrative team, her many excellent teachers, and the tremendous community of families and local stakeholders that makes this possible,” he said. “While we’ve always known that Hudson PEP is the elite elementary campus of East Texas, it’s very rewarding to see that reputation extends to the entire state.” According to U.S. News, the 10 best elementary schools in the state of Texas are: • William B. Travis Academy (Dallas ISD) • Windsor Park Elementary (Corpus Christi ISD) • Old Union Elementary (Carroll ISD) • Carroll Elementary (Carroll ISD) • Hudson PEP Elementary (Longview ISD) • Sudie L. Williams Academy (Dallas ISD) • Canyon Creek Elementary (Round Rock ISD) • Carver Center (Midland ISD) • Cactus Ranch Elementary (Round Rock ISD)
• Creekside Forest Elementary (Tomball ISD) Other LISD elementary campuses receiving grades from the publication were Ned E. Williams (696th), Bramlette (890th), the former South Ward campus now known as Bailey (2,081th), JL Everhart (2,207th), Ware (2,945), and Johnston-McQueen (3,275th). East Texas Montessori Prep Academy did not receive a ranking, as it is only a campus for Pre-K and Kindergarten classes. Unlike its annual list of the country’s best high schools, U.S. News & World Report didn’t come up with a national ranking of elementary schools. Rather, it published a ranking for each state. Scoring for the statewide rankings was largely based on how students performed on the state assessments for mathematics and reading/language arts. U.S. News used data from the U.S. Department of Education for the 2018-2019 academic school year, avoiding the recent impacts from the COVID-19 pandemic on students.
Joyce Marie Norris
Mrs. Joyce Marie Norris, was born on September 23, 1963, in Jefferson, Texas to Dorsey and Bertha Mae Johnson. Mrs. Norris was preceded in death by both parents, two brothers, and NORRIS a sister, Teresa Rollins Johnson. Joyce began her educational journey in Jefferson School District, later moved to Marshall School District, and she received her high school diploma from Longview High School, graduating with the class of 1981. She was a firm believer in Jesus Christ and worshipped at New Birth Fellowship Church, under the leadership of Pastor Beard in Kilgore, Texas, where she was a faithful member until her passing. On October 17, 2021, God called Joyce home to be with Him. Although she will be truly missed, she has created many memories, shared lots of love, and leaves behind a legacy to be remembered and cherished by her husband, E.W. Norris; son, Brandon Norris; daughter, Jennifer Norris of Longview, Texas; two brothers, Travis (Laquinda) Williams, of Sulphur, Springs, Texas and Marvin (Kelly) Johnson, of Jefferson, Texas; two sisters, Clara Williams and Sharon Williams, of Longview; her SPECIAL and only grandson, Stanley O’Quinn, as well as a host of nieces, nephews, aunts, uncles, family, friends and coworkers.
“Blessed are those who mourn, for they shall be comforted.” — MATTHEW
5:4
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PUBLIC NOTICES LISD Board meeting set for November 8 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, November 8.
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 soliciting additional, subsequent sealed competitive proposals for CONTRACTED EDUCATIONAL SERVICES. Proposals will be received at the following address on an ongoing basis until 4:00 p.m. on Thursday, July 28, 2022, for consid-
eration. Submission should include an original signed copy with all necessary backup requested. Submission Location Longview Independent School District ATTN: Sheri Broadwater, Director of Federal Compliance & Procurement
1301 East Young Street Longview, Texas 75602 Telephone, electronic or fax proposals are not considered legal documents; therefore, original signed documentation must be submitted for consideration.
Chase Smith finished with 10 tackles, forcing a fumble as well as an interception. Kaden Books had nine tackles and a sack, with Xaryus Sheppard adding two sacks and several solo tackles as well.
“Another solid performance by our defense, and great to see our offense really come along and take advantage of opportunities,” he said. “We’ll head into this open week working on how we can continue to improve going into the last couple weeks of the regular season.” Paced by halfback Taylor Tatum’s 179 yards and three scores, Longview rolled up over 500 yards of total offense and over 50 points for the third time this season.
LOBOS |Continued from page 11 56-28 win in West Mesquite on Sept. 23rd. The Lobos jumped out to a quick 21-0 lead early on, with West Mesquite battling back to tie the game 21-21, before Longview roared back with 28 unanswered points in the second half. Despite the score, it was a powerful performance by the Lobo defense. Longview intercepted 4 passes, the most in a game since 2009. “That was a great way to open up district,” added Coach King. On offense Longview scored 28 pts in the fourth quarter, the most points a Lobo squad has scored in the final stanza since 1927.
DOMINANT DEFENSE, IMPROVING OFFENSE
Longview followed their district opener with a 56-0 blowout at home against Wylie East. Jumping out to a 35-point lead in the first half, the Lobos added 21 points in the second half despite making wholesale substitution of backups. Longview rolled to a 35-point first half and added 21 points in the second half, led by quarterback Jordan Allen completing 8-of-10 passes for 169 yards and the combined rushing of Taylor Tatum (51 yards), Jarrett Lewis (45 yards), Isailynn Taylor (42 yards) and Kentraevion McFarland (32 yards). But it was the Lobo defense that put Longview in scoring position, even adding to the scoring column as well, thanks to a 63-yard interception return score from Willie Nelson and another clutch pick from Chase Smith. “Defensively we had so many guys stepping up and making plays,” said Coach King. “And when you have that, it sure helps the offense control the game.”
HEARTBREAKER AT HIGHLAND PARK
A five-game winning streak came to an end in the hostile environs of Highlander Stadium. Hindered by untimely penalties and turnovers, Longview fell 21-16 to the opportunistic Scots. While the loss dropped the Lobos to 5-2 on the season and 2-1 in District 7-5A play, Coach King said it was an important lesson in focus for his young team, and an opportunity to grow from adversity moving forward. “Mistakes are costly against any opponent, especially a team like Highland Park,” he said. “But I’m proud of the team and how they continued to battle to the end. I think they learned a lot, and [the loss] shows us a lot of things we need to improve as the season continues.” Defense continued to be a bright spot for Longview, with Kaden Brooks pulling in a 65-yard pick-six interception return for touchdown, as the Lobos held Highland Park to their lowest scoring outing this season.
BACK ON TRACK AGAINST SHERMAN
The Sherman Bearcats brought a dynamic, high-scoring offense into Lobo Stadium, but were handed a 56-14 defeat. With the win, Longview improved to 6-2 overall record and 3-in district play. It was also the 200th victory all-time at the current Lobo Stadium. Coach King praised his team for playing as complete a game as they’ve played this season.
LOOKING BACK, LOOKING AHEAD
Defensively the Lobos have been led by heavy pressure from Jeremiah Rougely, Kaden Brooks, Xaryus Sheppard, Billy Smith, Jesse Fairchild, Ta’Darion Boone, and Devean Isaac. The front-seven pass rush when combined with heads-up coverage by Chase Smith, Willie Nelson, Jaiden Simmons, and Khylon Sublett has held opposing offenses to less than 20 points per game. Longview continues District 7-5A competition with a road trip to McKinney North on Oct. 28. This will be only the second time the two programs have met, with the Lobos taking a 55-10 victory in 2020. Then on Nov. 5th Longview will wrap up the regular season with a Senior Night home game against longtime rival Tyler High. The Lobos lead the series all-time (51 wins 39 losses 7 ties) and are 7-3 in the last ten meetings, the most recent being a 58-14 blowout in 2020.
LISD |Continued from page 7 Savannah Rodriguez, a parent, and employee at LISD says her oldest daughter has gotten several universities offers right now. “When I was going to school, the soccer wasn’t really that big,” she said. “But the MLS (Major League Soccer) is getting really big and you see a lot of kids signing up to play the sport.”
Her daughter is hoping to pursue a professional soccer career. She credits the offers to exposure her daughter gets from these live broadcasts. During the week, Francisco Rojas hosts a radio show for Hispanic parents at noon on Tuesdays and Thursdays. Those can be heard on FM 92.7 and on the Longview ISD Facebook Page.
“Through the radio show, we provide family support topics or parenting topics. We provide information on what is going on in the school district,” he said. He said many of the students who are growing up in this generation still have parents who do not speak English and who may not have gone to college, so the district is giving those parents resources and information
to help those students succeed. “It’s been a blessing, not only for us as a school district, but for them as well,” he said.
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Bailey students learn about gardening from A&M program Students at Bailey learned a lot about gardening on Monday, Oct. 4, from the Learn, Grow, Eat & Go! program!
BAND |Continued from page 1 that we are proud to be part of such a great legacy and we are grateful for those that came before us paving the way,” said Director of Bands Rhonda Daniel. “This streak says that for 72 years the Lobo Band has focused on performing to meet and surpass a standard of first division at the UIL Region Marching Contest. “We do hear a lot about the streak at this time of year, but for the 2021 Lobo Band, the focus has been on performing to the best of their ability on October 16. This district has been blessed with students throughout the years that have worked to maintain this standard of excellence.” Their latest win took place on Saturday, Oct. 16, at the Lobo stadium. The Lobo marching band hosted 44 bands from East Texas, including the Lumberjack Marching Band from SFA that performed twice as an exhibition. The students worked incredibly hard to keep this tradition going. “We traveled to SFA in July to have our band camp. We’re very grateful for this opportunity to take our students away from Longview to focus on the new marching season,” Mrs. Daniel said, who has been the LHS band director for three years. “While at SFA we worked on the fundamentals of marching, had sectionals on music fundamentals, and also spent a lot of time working on our music for the drill. Since August 1, they have been routinely working on marching fundamentals, music preparation, and learning drill. We
have been adding to our contest performance weekly since our first football game in Frisco on August 28. “The students were very excited to hear their rating announced Saturday night. They worked for twelve weeks to prepare for UIL and it was nice to see them celebrate their success.” However, the hard work was not only the hard work that the students undertook, but also the preparation the night before the event. After finishing a home game the band started working at 10:15 p.m. to clean the stadium up to make sure that it was in great condition for hosting such a big event the next day. Come 7 a.m. on Saturday, 90 students, countless parents, and all LISD band directors work until 11 p.m. to host the event. They guided bands to warm-up areas and the stadium, worked concessions, made sure no cars parked where buses have to park, served water, prepped the field between bands, and so much more. “Our Lobo Band team got the job done. After working tirelessly to support our Lobos Friday night and host those 44 bands on Saturday, our students took the field at 9:45 p.m. and had a great performance. I was very proud of how they handled themselves,” Mrs. Daniel said. “I received many compliments from band directors from other districts on the job our students did. They represented our district very well and we should all be proud. “They are an asset to Longview ISD.”
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