Texas School Business SEPTEMBER / OCTOBER 2018

65 YEARS Texas School The News Magazine for Public Education Business in Texas

SEPTEMBER/ OCTOBER 2018 Keep them safe What Texas superintendents are doing to protect their students from school violence

Also in this issue: TARS President Robert Dillard TASA President Gayle Stinson School Furniture for 21st Century Learning Smart Solutions for Today’s Learning Spaces

At School Outfitters, we know education is changing. Whether you’re trying a flipped classroom or embracing full project-based learning, the demands of your learning space change daily – maybe even hourly. That’s where we can help. Our team is committed to understanding education and finding the best products to meet the need. With more than 300 brands and a direct line to your personal representative, creating custom solutions for 21st century learning has never been easier.

SchoolOutfitters.com 1-800-260-2776 [email protected] Texas School Business SEPTEMBER / OCTOBER 2018

Cover Story 22 24 Keep them safe TARS President Profile TASA President Profile Robert Dillard seeks to Gayle Stinson urges What Texas superintendents protect Texas’ rural schools administrators to prioritize are doing to protect their self-care by James Golsan students from school violence by James Golsan by Dacia Rivers

Departments Columns 7 Who’s News 5 From the Editor 28 Calendar by Dacia Rivers 42 Ad Index 13 The Law Dawg— Unleashed by Jim Walsh 15 Digital Frontier by Cori Coburn- Shiflett 17 Game On! by Bobby Hawthorne 31 Student Voices Photo Features by Rachel Widder The Back Page 12 Annual TACS Presidents Luncheon honors longtime and retiring members 42 by Riney Jordan 14, 16 TASSP welcomes 2,400 attendees to summer workshop 27 TASA and UT host 70th annual joint summer conference 35 Summer technology conference brings Texas ASCD members to Irving 40 TEPSA members gather for summer conference The views expressed by columnists and contributing writers do not necessarily reflect those of the publisher or Texas School Business advertisers. The publisher also makes no endorsement of the advertisers or advertisements in this publication. Save Instructional time • All of your digital learning resources and files. Just one login.

• Affordable, flexible access for everyone, anywhere. On any device.

• Resource analytics show which apps are being used. Money well spent.

1.888.963.7550 www.classlink.com [email protected] From the editor

ll schoolchildren should have the undeniable right to pursue their educations in an environment where they are safe from harm. In an age Awhere everything feels debatable, it’s one fact that no one can deny. But occasionally, things happen in our schools that challenge that right. Stories of school violence hit the media and spread like wildfire, affecting us all. And when they hit, we all react differently. Some get angry, some afraid. If you’re like me, you seek out every bit of news you can find on the topic until you nearly drown in it, overwhelmed and incapable of thinking about much else. For our cover story, I spoke with two Texas superintendents who are making great strides to prevent violent incidents on their campuses. Their clear- headedness on an emotional topic, their dedication to the safety of their Texas School Business students, and their forward-thinking approaches were heartening. It’s my hope (ISSN 0563-2978 USPS 541-620) that each of you reads their words and finds some inspiration in them. And when you’re done, pass the issue along to a colleague who might do the same. SEPTEMBER / OCTOBER 2018 Thanks to all of you for reading. Here’s to another successful, and safe, school Volume LXV, Issue 5 year for all of us. 406 East 11th Street Austin, Texas 78701 Phone: 512-477-6361 • Fax: 512-482-8658 www.texasschoolbusiness.com

EDITORIAL DIRECTOR DIRECTOR OF Dacia Rivers COMMUNICATIONS AND MEDIA RELATIONS DESIGN Amy Francisco Phaedra Strecher

COLUMNISTS Texas School Business (ISSN Dacia Rivers Bobby Hawthorne 0563-2978) is published Editorial Director Riney Jordan bimonthly with a special Cori Coburn-Shiflett edition, Bragging Rights, in Jim Walsh December, by the Texas Asso- ciation of School Administra- ADVERTISING SALES tors, at 406 E. 11th St., Austin, MANAGER TX 78701. Periodicals postage Ann M. Halstead paid at Austin, Texas, and at additional mailing offices. TEXAS ASSOCIATION OF SCHOOL POSTMASTER: Send ADMINISTRATORS address changes to EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR Texas Association of School Kevin Brown Administrators, 406 East 11th Street, Austin, TX 78701. ASSISTANT EXECUTIVE © Copyright 2018 CORRECTIONS DIRECTOR, SERVICES Texas Association of School AND SYSTEMS Administrators In the July/August 2018 Texas School Business cover story, we made an er- ADMINISTRATION ror in the name of the company that worked with Sheldon ISD to facilitate Ann M. Halstead recovery following Hurricane Harvey. The company’s name is Lockwood, Andrews & Newnam, Inc. We regret the error.

Texas School Business SEPTEMBER / OCTOBER 2018 5 TEXAS PUBLIC FINANCE

Daniel Mahoney Thiiri Kimathi Jeanie Yarbrough Bob Poswalk Jack Logan Alix Cethoute Brad Angst Barton Withrow David Webb Leon Johnson Karl Biggers Gary Machak Underwriting & Municipal Advisory Services &Municipal Advisory Underwriting Texas Municipal Advisor Transactions Texas Public Education Transactions T exas Combined MA/Underwriter Texas Combined Visit us online at www.gkbaum.com at Visit us online TO SCHOOL DISTRICTS SCHOOL TO Texas Underwriter Transactions

Texas Public Finance of Texas State Throughout the CONTACT US TODAY US CONTACT $30.4 BILLION* $30.4 $23.7 BILLION* $23.7 $3.9 BILLION* $3.9 $6.7 BILLION* $6.7 HOUSTON, TX HOUSTON, DALLAS, TX DALLAS, AUSTIN, TX AUSTIN, (512) 542-8000 (214) 365-8209 (214) 365-8203 OFFERING *GKB Texas Transactions 2011-YTD Transactions Texas *GKB school. Previously an assistant principal Who’s News at Lovejoy Elementary in Lovejoy ISD, Association News she has a master’s degree in educational administration from Texas A&M University Association of Texas at Commerce. Abilene ISD Professional Educators Larry Blair has accepted Shannon Holmes, the role of interim Austin ISD formerly the superintendent of executive director of The new chief officer for school leadership, human resources. He is a Hardin-Jefferson ISD, retired superintendent who Michelle Chae, comes to Austin from is stepping into the top previously led Mansfield ISD. San Antonio, where she was director of role at ATPE. Holmes secondary education at Schertz-Cibolo- will serve as executive The new director of career Universal City ISD. She began her career as director of the association, bringing and technical education is Ketta Garduno, a bilingual educator in Houston ISD after with him 20 years of experience with who was principal of the Academy of earning her bachelor’s degree in elementary Texas public schools, a long history of Technology, Engineering, Math and Science education from the University of Northern involvement with public education since 2015. She began her career in the Iowa and a master’s degree in administration organizations, a strong background district as a teacher at Abilene High School and supervision from the University of in business and finance, and proven in 1988. Houston. She is nearing completion of her engagement with issues facing public Stepping into the role doctorate from Texas State University. education in Texas. of director of human The following principal appointments have resources is former Reagan been announced: Texas Association for the Elementary School principal Gifted & Talented • Michelle Amezquita-Navarro, Travis The TAGT Chris Halifax. Heights Elementary School; board selected Jeff Howle is now principal • Tai Choice, Covington Middle School; , of the Academy of Paulina van Eeden Hill CAE, as the association’s Technology, Engineering, • Stacie Holiday, Fulmore Middle School; new executive director. Math and Science after Hill is an experienced spending the past two years • Kristina Muehling, Bryker Woods association executive as an academic specialist and Elementary School; with more than 10 years’ experience in assistant principal. • Claudia Santamaria, Uphaus Early leading Texas education associations. Leslye Roberts has been Childhood Center. She previously served as the TAGT appointed principal of deputy executive director, leading Reagan Elementary School, professional development activities, where she previously Balmorhea ISD events, business development and taught before joining governance. Superintendent Manuel Espino has retired. Lee Elementary as an instructional specialist. Douglas Moore has accepted the position of interim superintendent. Bastrop Middle School’s new Aledo ISD principal is Krystal Gabriel, Bandera ISD former principal of Cedar Aledo ISD announces the appointment of Creek Intermediate School. Amber Crissey as assistant superintendent Jerry Hollingsworth, the new Prior to that assignment, she of curriculum and instruction. She comes superintendent, was previously Burleson was associate principal of to her new job from White Settlement ISD’s associate superintendent of educational Cedar Creek High School. ISD, where she was executive director of operations. curriculum and instruction. The new principal of Cedar Creek Middle School is Now serving as assistant principal of Jim Hallamek, who returns to Vandagriff Elementary School is Bastrop ISD the school he led from 2006 Shanna Smith. The new director of digital to 2015. He most recently learning and STEM career taught pre-AP chemistry and and technology education scientific research and design Alice ISD is Emily Bain, who was the at the district’s Colorado River Collegiate Academy and holds a bachelor’s degree Alice ISD has hired a new superintendent. district’s digital learning coordinator. from the University of Minnesota and a Carl Scarbrough comes to Alice from master’s degree in biology from Texas State San Antonio ISD, where he was assistant Patricia Flores has been University. superintendent. named director of bilingual/ ESL programs. She comes Randy Sharp, former IT to Bastrop ISD from ESC systems administrator and IT Allen ISD Region 13, where she was coordinator, is now director coordinator of curriculum of information technology Vaughan Elementary School and instruction since 2008. services. has welcomed Tonya Jasenof She earned her bachelor’s and master’s as principal. She will also degrees from Texas Tech University. oversee the GATE (Gifted and Talented Elementary) > See Who’s News, page 9 Academy within the Texas School Business SEPTEMBER / OCTOBER 2018 7 Designing Schools Shaping Lives

ARCHITECTURE \\ ENGINEERING \\ INTERIORS \\ PLANNING \\ TECHNOLOGY \\ FACILITY CONSULTING WWW.PBK.COM 1-800-938-7272 Who’s News in leadership roles. Her bachelor’s and • David Drake, Clear Lake High School; master’s degrees were awarded from Tarleton State University and she is at work on her • Michael Houston, Clear Springs High > Continued from page 7 doctorate. School; • Paige Hutchison, Ferguson Elementary Brock ISD School; The district’s new Carroll ISD • Marshall Ponce, Clear Horizons Early superintendent is Cade Smith, A new executive director for athletics is in College High School; formerly with Georgetown place for Carroll ISD. Steve Keasler, who • Leatrice Sanders, Victory Lakes ISD as executive director was director of athletics in Midlothian ISD, Intermediate School; of campus operations and also served as assistant men’s golf coach leadership. An educator at the University of Texas and coached • Suzanne Saunders, Hyde Elementary for 18 years, he earned in Grand Prairie and Callisburg ISD. He School; his bachelor’s degree from Texas State holds a bachelor’s degree from East Texas • Mandy Scott, Creekside Intermediate University, where he is pursuing a doctorate State University and a master’s degree in School; in school improvement. His master’s degree educational administration from Texas was awarded from Lamar University. Christian University. • Monica Speaks, Clear View High School; Rene Moses is now principal of Johnson Elementary School, where she spent the • Stanley Zavala, League City Bryan ISD past four years as assistant principal. She Intermediate School. Former assistant director of earned her bachelor’s degree from Texas elementary curriculum and A&M University and her master’s degree instruction JoLyn Bricker is in curriculum and instruction from the College Station ISD University of North Texas. now principal of Johnson The new principal of Elementary School. She was College View High School an elementary teacher for is Justin Grimes, who joins 20 years and has spent the Carrollton-Farmers Branch ISD the district from Huntsville past eight years as a campus and district After serving as superintendent of Ennis ISD, where he led Huntsville leader. Her bachelor’s degree is from Baylor ISD, John Chapman has accepted the lead High School. A graduate of University and her master’s degree was position at Carrollton-Farmers Branch ISD. College Station ISD’s A&M earned from the University of Texas at Tyler. He began his career in Lubbock ISD, going Consolidated High School, he went on The new director of financial services is on to serve as superintendent of Chillicothe to receive a bachelor’s degree from Texas Stephanie Brumfield. She joins the district and Comfort ISDs. He received his master’s A&M University and a master’s degree from Texas City ISD, where she served in degree from Wayland Baptist University and in education administration from Sam the same capacity. his doctorate in educational leadership from Houston State University. Texas Tech University. Rudder High School’s new Molley Perry has accepted principal, Mario Bye, is the position of chief a 22-year educator, most administrative officer. She recently leading Liberty Hill Central Heights ISD (Nacogdoches) comes to her new job from High School in Liberty Hill David Russell, the district’s serving as the district’s ISD. He holds a bachelor’s new superintendent, has executive director for special degree from the University been with Central Heights services and accountability. of Houston and a master’s degree in ISD for 18 of his 29 years as She earned her bachelor’s degree in educational administration from Prairie an educator, serving as an psychology from Texas A&M University, View A&M University. assistant principal, coach, where she is at work on her doctorate, and testing coordinator, athletics holds a master’s degree in special education The new executive director from Texas Tech University. of communications and director and, for the past seven years, high public affairs isMatt LeBlanc, school principal. coming to Bryan from Temple ISD, where he was Conroe ISD director of communications. Clear Creek ISD Jamie Almond is the new With 16 years of experience Karen Engle has been principal of San Jacinto in the field, he earned his bachelor’s degree Elementary School. Most in journalism from Ithaca College. promoted from Clear Lake High School principal to recently an assistant principal Now serving as director of special education assistant superintendent of at Broadway Elementary, she is Kate Patterson, who most recently held secondary education. has also served the district as the same position in Huntsville ISD. She is a language arts teacher and The new director of president of the Council of Administrators instructional coach. counseling and student of Special Education in ESC Region 6. Newly appointed principal services, , was Natalie Uranga of The Woodlands High Mandy Wells has been previously coordinator of promoted from elementary student personnel services. School Ted Landry comes language arts coordinator from Humble ISD, where he The following principal to principal of Houston was principal of Kingwood assignments have been Elementary School. She High School. An employee announced: worked as an assistant of that district for 16 years, principal in Georgetown and • Kim Brouillard, Clear Creek > Killeen ISDs and has 13 years of experience Intermediate School; See Who’s News, page 11 Texas School Business SEPTEMBER / OCTOBER 2018 9 Architecture that puts students first

When we invest in our future, we move forward together. We design innovative, forward-thinking educational facilities that support our greatest asset: the next generation of students who will reimagine what’s possible.

stantec.com/education Featured project: Manor ISD New Manor Tech Middle School Texas School Business 10 SEPTEMBER / OCTOBER 2018 Who’s News The new assistant principal Crosby ISD of Collins Intermediate Scott Davis, former superintendent > Continued from page 9 School is Molly Corrington, a district employee for 11 of Rusk ISD, now leads Crosby ISD as years and most recently superintendent. He began his now 25-year career in Lockhart ISD as a teacher and he also worked as a guidance counselor and assistant principal of Carroll coach. assistant principal. He received his bachelor’s Elementary. She earned and master’s degrees from the University her bachelor’s degree from Texas A&M of Louisiana and his doctorate from the University at Commerce and her master’s University of Houston. degree in education from the University of Cypress-Fairbanks ISD Texas at Arlington. The district’s former Now leading Collins director of human Coppell ISD Intermediate School as resources is now assistant superintendent The district’s newly appointed principal is Scott Doring, for elementary school director of ESL and bilingual who previously coached administration. Christina Cole programs, , and taught in CISD before Patricia Cheatham has been an educator for 23 brings 25 years of experience transferring to Van ISD years, beginning her career in Spring Branch to her new job. She was as assistant principal of ISD as a bilingual teacher and joining CFISD principal of Lewisville Van High School. In addition, he was two years later. Cole earned her bachelor’s ISD’s Vickery Elementary athletic director and head football coach in degree from the University of Houston School for the past eight years. Cheatham Blooming Grove ISD. and her master’s degree in education from is pursuing her doctorate at Dallas Baptist Tiffany Farmer is Navarro Prairie View A&M University. University. Elementary School’s newest A new assistant The new director of social assistant principal. She holds bachelor’s and master’s superintendent for studies, Maria McCoy, is a degrees from the University communication and 23-year educator who spent community relations has the past five years with Irving of Texas at Arlington and was been named. Leslie Francis, ISD as pre-K-12 social studies a fifth-grade math teacher in former director of marketing coordinator. She holds a Corsicana ISD for the past six years. and business relations, is an bachelor’s degree in history Ariana Hernandez has alumna of Cypress Creek High School and from Tulane University and two master’s accepted the position of earned her bachelor’s degree in business degrees, in secondary education from the assistant principal of Carroll administration from the University of Texas. University of North Texas and in educational Elementary after serving as administration from Concordia University. an instructional coach and Tonya Goree, assistant superintendent for is now director interventionist at the school. Laurie O’Neill school improvement and of state and federal programs. She began her career in transformation, began her A graduate of Texas State Dallas ISD, joining Corsicana ISD in 2012. career 27 years ago. She University, she holds a She is pursuing her doctorate from Tarleton joined Cypress Fairbanks master’s degree in educational State University, where she also earned her ISD in 2009 and has been administration from Lubbock master’s degree. principal of Francone Elementary School Christian University. She has An eight-year employee of since 2015. Goree earned her bachelor’s been an educator for 25 years, working as a Corsicana ISD and former degree from Lamar University, her master’s teacher and administrator, most recently as assistant principal of degree in educational administration director of professional learning. Corsicana Middle School, from Prairie View A&M University, and J.P. Johnson is now principal her doctorate in educational leadership of that campus. He holds and policy studies from the University of Corsicana ISD a bachelor’s degree from Houston. Texas Tech University and a master’s degree Tim Betts has accepted the in education administration from Lamar Glenda Horner, district position of principal of University. director of staff development, Navarro Elementary School. will be recognized with Now serving as assistant principal of He has been with Corsicana the Education Leadership ISD for 11 years, most Corsicana Middle School is Meagan Pruett. Award from the University recently as assistant principal She has been with the district for five Council for Educational of Collins Intermediate years, working as a history teacher and Administration Excellence, to School. He holds a bachelor’s degree from as Corsicana Middle School girls’ athletic be presented at the association’s November Texas A&M University at Commerce and coordinator. She has a bachelor’s degree national convention in Houston. a master’s degree in educational leadership from Tarleton State University and a master’s from the University of Texas at Arlington. degree in educational leadership from Now serving as assistant Lamar University. superintendent for Bowie Elementary School facilities and construction began the 2018-19 school Holley Usery, the new is Matt Morgan, who came year with Verlena Bodie as principal of Bowie to the district in 2000 as assistant principal. She comes Elementary School, served director of food services. to Corsicana from Ennis as interim principal since Since 2012 he has been ISD, where she worked as spring. She joined Corsicana assistant superintendent of support services. a fourth-grade gifted and ISD in 2008 and has a He holds a bachelor’s degree from Texas talented teacher since 1999. A graduate of master’s degree in educational leadership and administration from Lamar Wylie College, her master’s degree is from > See Who’s News, page 26 Lamar University. University. Texas School Business SEPTEMBER / OCTOBER 2018 11 Photo Feature

ANNUAL TACS PRESIDENTS LUNCHEON HONORS LONGTIME AND RETIRING MEMBERS

The Texas Association of Community Schools hosted its annual President’s Program and luncheon at a steakhouse in Austin this May.

▲ TACS President Bill Alcorn poses with ▲ TACS Executive Director Barry ▲ Barry Haenisch honors Danny TACS’ retiring deputy executive director, Haenisch presents a plaque to President Twardowski of Waller ISD with a plaque. Linda Valk. Bill Alcorn.

▲ Bill Alcorn presents an honorary ▲ Barry Haenisch offers a plaque to ▲ Bill Alcorn offers an honorary lifetime lifetime TACS membership to Ronnie Steve Long, superintendent of Reagan membership to retiring TACS staff member Kincaid, executive director of ESC Region County ISD. Angela Petreczko. 14.

◄ Dacia Rivers, editorial director of Texas School ▲ Barry Haenisch hands an honorary Business, presents a framed lifetime TACS membership to Monty article to TACS President Bill Hysinger, superintendent of Dumas ISD. Alcorn.

Texas School Business 12 SEPTEMBER / OCTOBER 2018 THE LAW DAWG – UNLEASHED

What are public school employees really allowed to say and share regarding elections?

by Jim Walsh Educators Helping

EAR DAWG: I feel pretty strongly account were to identify you as a school Educators about this upcoming election, but superintendent, or a board member, would DI sure don’t want to get in trouble. you be barred from using that account to One Source for All Learners From the stories I hear in the teachers’ send political messages? lounge, it sounds like we public school I did not do any formal legal research on that employees have to remain mum about these question. I just looked around on Twitter. things. I know we get to vote, but we’re not I found that Ken Paxton has a Twitter ChoicePartners.org supposed to publicly support any particular account that is labeled “Texas Attorney Purchasing Cooperative candidate, are we? I heard that even doing a General Ken Paxton.” You can find it here: simple thing, like retweeting something on @KenPaxtonTX. It identifies Paxton as our Twitter might be a violation of the U.S. and attorney general and looks very official. A Texas Constitutions, the Gettysburg Address, reasonable person might very well think the Geneva Convention and the Magna that it’s the official, publicly funded account TxSPOT.org Carta. WHAT’S THE DEAL, DAWG? for the office of the attorney general. But Support for School Physical DEAR WHAT’S THE DEAL: Let’s just focus the tweets you will find on that account and Occupational Therapy on the constitutions. The U.S. Constitution lean far to the right. There’s lots of support guarantees freedom of speech to everyone. for Republicans and some pretty harsh That includes school employees. Freedom comments about Democrats. You will find a of speech applies to what you say, what you similar account @DanPatrick, complete with write, what you post on Facebook and what a logo for the Texas lieutenant governor and Digital Learning you tweet. U.S. and Texas flags waving in the breeze. Learning Management System The Texas Constitution has a similar So, I’m thinking that if those politicians can (Moodle) Hosting guarantee. It also imposes a duty (A DUTY) do this, maybe a school board member or on the Legislature to “establish and make superintendent can do so as well. suitable provision” for a public school system. As we approach a very important election, This DUTY is imposed because “A general let’s remember that all school employees have Facility Safety Audits diffusion of knowledge” is “essential to the the constitutional right of free speech, and preservation of the liberties and rights of the an ethical duty to promote good schools. people.” So it’s pretty important that we use Good educators should also be good citizens. those “liberties and rights” to choose people Good citizens vote. They also talk to their to represent us who will understand this relatives, friends and neighbors about their Web-based Emergency DUT Y. views. Educators have particular insight into Standard 2.4 in the Educator’s Code of Ethics how things are going in our public schools. Operations Plan tells us that, “The educator shall not interfere Their voices should be heard and valued. with a colleague’s exercise of political, They certainly should not be silenced or professional, or citizenship rights and intimidated. responsibilities.” If everyone who works for a public school Facility Reviews When educators think that they cannot speak got registered, voted and talked to others out on matters of important public concern, about the issues, we would see more respect I wonder if perhaps someone is violating that for teachers and administrators. If educators provision in the Code of Ethics. Is someone were more respected, perhaps we would see attempting to interfere with the exercise more young people choosing education as of “political” and “citizenship rights and a career. We would have leaders at the state responsibilities” of educators? Is someone level who encourage get out the vote efforts trying to intimidate public school people by educators, rather than trying to intimidate from getting actively involved in politics? them from acting as good citizens. 855-821-HCDE (4233) Let’s consider Twitter. If your Twitter So, talk it up. Tweet. Post. VOTE. www.HCDE-Texas.org

JIM WALSH is an attorney with Walsh Gallegos Treviño Russo & Kyle PC. He can be reached at [email protected]. You can also follow him on Twitter: @jwalshtxlawdawg. Texas School Business SEPTEMBER / OCTOBER 2018 13 Photo Feature

TASSP WELCOMES 2,400 ATTENDEES TO SUMMER WORKSHOP The Texas Association of Secondary School Principals held its annual summer workshop in Austin, with focus on leading schools into the future.

▲ Texas Association of Student Council ▲ A new member and first-time ▲ Dr. Kate Biberdorf, University of Texas professor, officers bring greetings to 2,400 work- attendee greets his colleagues. demonstrates Fun with Science experiments. shop attendees.

▲ A group of administrators caught working on campus plans after hours at the Hilton Austin.

▲ TASSP All State Academic Team and Teens Serving Texas.

► Carrie Jackson, TASSP president, principal at Timberview Middle School, Keller ISD, greets the attendees at the ▲ Eric Logan, director of Sound- Jostens Night of the wave, Abilene ISD, explains the Stars Texas Heroes reading system used by the special Dinner. needs students who comprise Soundwave.

Texas School Business 14 SEPTEMBER / OCTOBER 2018 > See more TASSP photos, page 16 DIGITAL FRONTIER TEXAS COMPUTER COOPERATIVE TCC KNOWS TEXAS Over 875 Turning your pockets Local Education Agencies rely on of innovation inside TCC products and services out

By Cori Coburn-Shiflett

s a new academic year starts, many dream into an effective reality. Together, all schools are piloting digital programs educators can provide valuable insights into Aand implementing new technologies how a new technology initiative will affect to provide their students the most innovative what they do. education experience possible. These School leaders need to lead by example programs and technology changes often with confidence and with purpose in come from the top down. They are instituted empowering their staff. New technology CareerPortal by administrators or those in positions of can be daunting for teachers, and it’s With over four decades formal leadership. Innovations sometime important for school staff to see their leaders receive pushback from educators who embracing the challenge alongside them. of service to our Texas have to implement the changes. However, This should include communicating the there are steps that can be taken to help importance of using new technology, setting education communities, get everyone involved on board. Pockets up technology training before, during, and the TCC truly knows of innovations can exist and flourish even after implementation, and actually attending when crowds push against changes. To grow training with staff whenever possible. Good Texas. these pockets of innovation in our schools, school administrators should also take we need to put forth a united effort to affect the time to demonstrate technology usage • Human Resources & Position school culture. for their staff. This isn’t to say that school Management It really doesn’t take much effort to tilt administrators have to be an expert in the technology implementation in a favorable new tech; however, they should have a basic • Budgeting & Finance direction. The most important step in working understanding of it so they can • Payroll & TRS TEAM implementing a new technology action recognize who their expert users are. • Purchasing & Warehouse plan is to involve all personnel in creating When providing training and professional a welcoming culture. Everyone needs to development for new technology, make sure • Employee Self-Service understand why a new technology or tool there is an emphasis on supporting follow- • Security Administration is needed and its benefits. Getting input up. Many implementations suffer because from multiple stakeholders also helps of a lack of follow-up and few reflections • TSDS PEIMS & Dashboards schools foresee challenges from different on growth. Promote the leadership capacity • Texas Records Exchange departmental points of view. One doesn’t of your top tech users. Have them mentor need years of formal technology training to hesitant users and provide peer support (TREx) have valuable input in how technology can during this journey. improve student outcomes. Veteran teachers • Effortless Compliance with can lead colleagues in strong curriculum Whenever possible, invest in the professional State and Federal Mandates connections and solid teaching practices. growth of teachers. When investing in this Likewise, new teachers are often willing to growth, get input from your staff on what • Third-party Integration embrace the adoption of new technology they feel they need to better implement • Worry-Free Data Security and can offer advice from their perspective. technology in their classrooms. Like our It’s also vitally important that technology students, staff members have different with Data Center Hosting personnel be involved in every conversation learning styles and can benefit from a • First Class, Statewide about technology. These are the people variety of training methods and supporting who will make sure that the district has the documentation. Besides in-person trainings, Customer Support infrastructure and requirements to make PDF guides, videos, slideshows and online a new implementation roll out smoothly; virtual trainings are usually easy to employ they are the ones who can turn a shiny tech and easy for teachers to access. texascomputercooperative.net > See Digital Frontier, page 39

Texas School Business SEPTEMBER / OCTOBER 2018 15 Photo Feature

TASSP CONFERENCE

▲ John Martinez, principal at Mackenzie ▲ Summer workshop attend- Middle School, Lubbock ISD, is joined by ees take a keepsake photo as family and friends for his recognition as they enter the general session. ▲ Revolution from Abilene ISD showcases student talents Texas Principal of the Year. in musical performance.

▲ Monica Bayarena, principal at Coles ▲ Jimmy Casas, author of “Culturize,” vis- High School, Corpus Christi ISD, joins her its with Alison Smith, principal at Midway parents as she is honored as the TASSP High School, Midway ISD. ▲ Kevin Carroll, keynote speaker, signs High School Principal of the Year. a book for Cindy Kirby, TASSP associate executive director, while many wait for Carroll’s autograph.

▲ Don Brown and Fred Richardson, ▲ Carrie Jackson, past TASSP past presidents, enjoy the time to president, pins Dr. Herb Cox, recall good memories. incoming TASSP president for 2018-19 and principal, Midway Middle School, Midway ISD.

Campus teams enjoyed taking pictures in the ▲ Archie McAfee, TASSP photo booth. ► executive director, congratulates a recipient of the TASSP All State Academic Team Award. Texas School Business 16 SEPTEMBER / OCTOBER 2018 GAME ON! A titan of Texas education offers his advice to new administrators

by Bobby Hawthorne was hoping George McShan would vision? What are your values? Make sure surprise me, but he didn’t. I asked him, you know yourself, especially in terms of I“Did you have any meetings this week?” your values.” That would have been the week of July 16- Second, seek input. “As a new administrator, 20. you’re probably young, and you tend to I thought he might reply, “Not a one, Bob. want to be the ‘sage on the stage.’ Don’t. Get Played a little golf. Read a book. Even input from the people who’ve been deep in drove over to South Padre for a little boogie the trenches already. What’s working? What boarding.” are the challenges? What do we want to see happen?” But, no. Though he recently ended his 30- year tenure as a member of the Harlingen Third, be humble and transparent. “You ISD board of trustees, he was as busy as ever, don’t have to have all the answers. Don’t be and I don’t have room here to list all the afraid to say, ‘I need to do a little research projects he was kicking off or completing first, and I’ll have to get back to you about that week. that.’ Understand others and separate your personal feelings from the reality on the I’m just glad he had time to take my call g rou n d .” because I wanted to ask him what advice he had for beginning administrators, inasmuch Fourth, be patient. “Go slow at first. Again, as he’s worked with hundreds —probably a lot of administrators and board members thousands—of them since he began his want to hit the ground running. They want career in education as a classroom teacher everything now. Today. But don’t do that. 50 years ago this fall. Ask the right questions. Listen to the right people and figure out who’s playing checkers His didn’t hesitate a second, and I imagine and who’s playing chess. Realize that a pawn he’s answered this question hundreds— can checkmate a game just as easily as a king possibly thousands—of times, given that he c an .” served as HISD board president seven times and was, in 1998, the first African-American Finally, look for results. “We talk a lot about to be elected TASB president. In 2004, he rigor, relevance and relationships, and they was elected president of the National School are important, but look for results. How do Boards Association, only the second Texan you get the results you want? You inspire ever to hold that office. people to buy in.” Some are willing, he said. Some are able. Some are both. Some are He grew up in Elgin, attended segregated neither. public schools and Prairie View College because it was what it was back then. “You’re a team. Teams play as a cohesive After graduation, he sold encyclopedias unit, or they lose.” door-to-door for a while, taught biology Footnote: The winner of the UIL’s in Brownsville and began his slow and first Barbara Jordan Historical Essay deliberate climb up the ladder. Competition was Harlingen High School For 32 years, he worked at Texas State South valedictorian Erika Hernandez. The Technical Institute (now “College,” in topic of her essay? George McShan. Harlingen), serving the last 20 years as “I realized how one person could have an dean of students. So, he knows what he’s impact on a large group of people’s lives,” she talking about when he counsels young said. “I liked his motto, ‘Every student can administrators to, first and foremost, see succeed.’” clearly. I suspect George would say that’s true “You have to know what your reality is,” he for every young administrator, too. I’d be told me. “What’s your mission? What’s your surprised if he didn’t.

BOBBY HAWTHORNE is the author of “Longhorn Football” and “Home Field,” published by UT Press. In 2005, he retired as director of academics for the University Interscholastic League. Texas School Business SEPTEMBER / OCTOBER 2018 17 Keep them safe

What Texas superintendents are doing to protect their students from school violence

By Dacia Rivers uperintendents are the stewards of our school districts. The captains, Sthe heads of household, these are the folks tasked with oversight, with keeping the whole system running like a well-oiled machine. Of all the wrenches that could be thrown into that system, the threat of a violent person showing up armed and ready to harm is one that weighs heavy on the heads of many school administrators. It’s an unenviable task, preparing for, or even worse, reacting to, a school shooting. It’s also one that’s on the forefront of a lot of superintendents’ minds, as the school year kicks off in a landscape where school shootings dominate the news and drive political rhetoric. But while the talking heads take to the news stations and anyone with a Facebook page shares their opinions on everything from mental health to gun control, school administrators are focusing on the concrete, hands-on things they can do to prevent argument. But it’s a fact that the student them, it went back to normal pretty quick.” on-campus violence now. They’re blocking population in Texas is growing. And as Personally, Joffre says the moment he knew out the hyperbole and trying to do their it does, any gun violence at any school is that everything was going to be OK was jobs, because ultimately, the safety of their going to impact more children, as even when he first met with the shooting victim students falls on them, and that’s no small those not directly involved walk away from in the hospital on the night of the incident. thing. these incidents permanently affected. The She was upbeat and positive, determined CDC’s Division of Violence Prevention that she would make a full recovery, and states that kids who are exposed to school that determination inspired him. The unimaginable violence can wind up with depression, anxiety and other mental health issues, “She and her family have been a pillar of On Jan. 22, 2018, a many of which can lead to drug use and strength for me to lean on so the district student in Italy ISD even suicide. can lean on me and my staff,” Joffre says. brought a gun to school, “When you’ve got strength like that in your and before the first bell Joffre experienced this effect firsthand community, you can overcome anything.” had even rung, used it to after the shooting at Italy High School, shoot and injure one of one of two campuses in the town, which his fellow students. It’s a lies between Dallas and Waco and has a A philosophy of day that Superintendent population of nearly 2,000 residents. Two of prevention Lee Joffre won’t forget. his children attend the school, and his wife works on the campus where Joffre served Following the shooting, Joffre began “As superintendent, I realized immediately as principal for five years before becoming thinking of ways the district could prevent that the responsibility of recovery was 100 superintendent in 2016. another incident from occurring. For him, percent on my shoulders,” Joffre says. “I the biggest piece was prevention—to find a knew that was going to be a tough task, but “All 628 of my students were victims of the way to identify students who are suffering with the support of the staff and community school shooting on Jan. 22,” Joffre says. “We and might act out violently before it gets to I knew we would learn and be able to move had all these victims, emotional victims, that point. To this end, counselors in the forward.” who were closely connected. They grew district reached out to the National Alliance up together and they knew the physical The victim has recovered and returned to on Mental Illness (NAMI), a grassroots victim. They knew the shooter. It seems real school last month, while the shooter awaits organization working to provide support personal in a small town like this.” trial. But since that day, school safety has and education around mental illness issues. been paramount on Joffre’s mind. For two days after the shooting, attendance NAMI came to the district to provide in the district dropped below 75 percent. “The facts are, we had a child who was training for Italy ISD’s teachers so that they Joffre reached out to parents, urging them supposed to be here, and every adult was might be able to identify the symptoms to send their kids back to school, and within where they were supposed to be,” Joffre of mental illness in their students. The four days of the incident, attendance had says. “We recognized that the required district had one counselor at the time of the climbed back to 95 percent at the high security measures that we put in place shooting, and they’ve since added more, so school. were implemented, but in our particular they now have one at each campus and a situation, it wasn’t enough.” “There was an initial fear and reservation third who splits roles between counseling of coming back to school,” Joffre says. “But Whether or not school shootings have and academic advising for graduating once the community rallied around the increased is a point of contention for many, seniors. school and the students saw that the staff and data can be massaged to support either When the district hired the new counselor, and administrators truly do care about

Texas School Business SEPTEMBER / OCTOBER 2018 19 they chose someone who wasn’t a traditional school counselor, but instead opted for a licensed family counselor. This counselor will work with the students who are found to have some of the symptoms NAMI has identified as potential mental health risks. Further west, in Lubbock-Cooper ISD, Superintendent Keith Bryant has made similar changes to prevent school violence, using a system detailed in the book “Snapshot,” by Dan Korem. Korem has created a method for reading a person’s behaviors that is designed to identify those who might have a tendency to act out in violence, and in Lubbock-Cooper, teachers, administrators and even students have been trained to use this method of detection to keep students safe at the district’s seven campuses. students help the school district identify Watch D.O.G.S., a group that puts adult “They watch for things kids are doing, listen kids who might be struggling emotionally, volunteers on campuses to serve as extra to what they’re saying, but they also watch while also learning valuable interpersonal eyes and ears when needed. their behavior,” says Bryant, who has used skills that can help them later in college the method for more than 20 years, with admissions, job interviews and their the last four as superintendent in Lubbock- ultimate careers. Cooper. “Does he act fearful instead of Physical measures confident? Is he more unpredictable in his Once a student in Lubbock-Cooper is While both Joffre and Bryant urge behavior than predictable?” identified as having behavioral issues that focusing on student behavior and that require an intervention, trained staff relationships should be on the forefront Teachers and administrators on each takes over, working to build the student’s when working to prevent campus violence, confidence and help him or her make better they also stress that physical security can’t decisions. be left by the wayside. “If you can build their “If you can build their confidence, you can Following the shooting in Italy ISD, the take them away from those dark places,” district made several changes to bolster confidence, you can take Bryant says. “We work behind the scenes to school security. They moved the check-in them away from those help kids make decisions out of confidence station for visitors to a location outside rather than fear.” dark places. We work of the building, so that guests come to an The district has also implemented a electronic kiosk with camera surveillance behind the scenes to mentoring program, where students in need and must be vetted before they can set foot help kids make decisions are partnered with adults who can build in the building. out of confidence rather positive relationships with them and turn The district also added Barracuda Intruder their behaviors around. These can include Defense Systems in all classrooms on both than fear.” students who aren’t potentially violent, as campuses. These are metal devices that well, such as pregnant or homeless teens, or allow any staff member to physically bar a — Lubbock-Cooper ISD students who lose a close relative. When a classroom door and prevent anyone from Superintendent Keith student needs support for whatever reason, entering in the case of a lockdown. the district is there to help. Bryant On the tech side, administration purchased Through a partnership with Texas a NaviGate Prepared system that interfaces Tech’s TWITR (Telemedicine Wellness with the district’s student database and Intervention Triage and Referral) program, information system. Through this system, campus have been trained to make these Lubbock-Cooper students who exhibit staff can count students as present and share snapshot reads, as have some 250 students potentially violent behavior can be referred that information district-wide, so that if an at the high-school level. Bryant says for intervention if necessary, so that incident occurs, administrators can identify participating students weren’t chosen for corrective measures can be taken before an which students are accounted for and which their academic records, but because they incident occurs. The district also works with are not. It also provides an interactive map were respected by their peers, and well Communities In Schools, an organization of the school to law enforcement agents, connected to their fellow students. These that serves to support students in need, and which when paired with the district’s

Texas School Business 20 SEPTEMBER / OCTOBER 2018 hallway cameras, provides authorities with live interior footage so they can identify and locate any intruders quickly and safely, minimizing response time and better protecting everyone involved. Italy ISD will also be implementing five school safety days into the calendar each school year. Unlike a typical active shooter or lockdown drill, staff will spend a full half-day focusing on safety planning and training. Joffre plans eventually to include reunification drills that involve parents and other community members. Following the 2012 Sandy Hook Elementary School shooting in Newtown, Connecticut, administrators in Lubbock-Cooper ISD placed police officers on each of the district’s seven campuses, with two at the high school. The schools have controlled access points, and the officers serve to not only keep students safe, but to engage with students and build positive relationships with them. The district also uses an app called IAN state, and trying to maintain that close-knit From his own experience, Joffre has advice (Instant Alert Network), which allows feeling is high on his list of objectives. for other school administrators looking to administrators to notify everyone in the “The challenge as we grow is to maintain implement changes in their schools that can district of any potential emergency, from that small school feel, that culture that we help keep their students safe from harm. foul weather to an active shooter, with the have,” Bryant says. “We can do that through “I think it’s important for all school touch of a button. the relationships, the people we hire, and administrators to implement practices keeping a focus on the human factor in this where they’re truly trying to identify whole equation.” students who need help,” Joffre says. “This A close-knit community That human factor gets left out of many goes along with what we do as educators. Both Lubbock-Cooper and Italy ISD and conversations around school violence, We help kids. We help kids learn. And, smaller school districts compared to many which tend to focus on hardening school sometimes, we need to help them learn to in Texas, and that presents its own set of buildings, making them impenetrable deal with emotional adversity.” challenges. For Italy ISD in particular, fortresses, and that is not always practical or is editorial director of Texas School resources can be tight, not just due to DACIA RIVERS even possible. Bryant and Joffre agree that Business. financial reasons, but because of limited solely focusing on the physical misses the human resources. Where a larger district most important part of violence prevention. might employ a director of security, in Italy, “We’re not doing metal detectors,” Bryant the director of technology has stepped up to says. “We’re not arming teachers. We want help implement new safety measures. the physical presence there as a deterrent Resources Joffre urges other small school districts and as an intervention, but our focus is on to avoid feeling insulated from school the human factor side.” violence. He believes it’s important for all National Alliance on Joffre says the Jan. 22 shooting might be the schools to dedicate everything they have to greatest challenge he has ever encountered, Mental Illness: nami.org keeping students safe, even if they believe it but by concentrating on identifying students could never happen to them. who need help before violence has a chance TWITR Project: “Italy ISD is an example that it doesn’t to arise, he is hoping to show the entire twitrproject.org matter how close-knit the community is, community that just as they supported him, bad things happen to good people,” Joffre he is there to do the same, keeping its most Communities in Schools: says. “You’ve got to be prepared.” vulnerable members safe so they have the communitiesinschools.org Bryant agrees, and adds that small school chance to learn and grow without fear. communities have the benefit of being able “I’ve got great teachers, great students and Watch D.O.G.S: to build personal relationships with every a great community, and we are bound to dadsofgreatstudents.com student, to get to know their families and recover,” Joffre says. “I think it’s much better effect change before negative behavior can to open our ears and try to learn from one take a turn for the worse. Lubbock-Cooper another before these things happen, rather is one of the fastest growing districts in the than after.”

Texas School Business SEPTEMBER / OCTOBER 2018 21 PRESIDENT PROFILE Texas Association of Rural Schools

Robert Dillard seeks to protect Texas’ rural schools

by James Golsan

t doesn’t take more than a few minutes of conversation with eight years teaching in Wichita Falls, but in 1992, he ultimately chose Robert Dillard, president of the Texas Association of Rural to follow that administrator’s advice and accepted a principalship in ISchools (TARS), to realize the man has a passion for two things: Gore ISD. education and small-town life. A self described “country boy,” Back in the sort of small town setting Dillard grew up in, his career Dillard’s roots run deep in North Texas oil country. But while his thrived. Following a four-year stint as a principal/coach in the father carved a career in the oil industry from the prairie scrub near district, he became Gore ISD’s superintendent, a position he held the Oklahoma border in Kamay—Dillard proudly highlights that for two years before moving “6 or 7 miles up the road” to Munday his father began his career as a roustabout and worked his way up ISD. After another two-year stint as principal, Dillard became their to production superintendent for his patch of the oil field—it was a superintendent as well, and held the position for 13 years before career in education that Dillard found himself drawn to, as early as moving on to Littlefield ISD, where he’s about to start his fourth year his own middle school days in Valley View ISD. as superintendent. “I always loved school,” he says, adding that the coaches he had while It was during his time in Gore that Dillard first became involved with participating in high school athletics were a major influence on him TARS. As his career has progressed and he’s moved into a leadership during those years. By the time he started college at Midwestern State position with the organization, he’s come to recognize the important University, teaching and coaching was where he saw his own life role it plays in, as he puts it, “defending a small school’s right to be going. small.” While a smaller, more rural school district might not have Dillard’s career in education began in 1984 in Wichita Falls ISD, and the same resources available as a larger one, Dillard emphasizes the it wasn’t long before an administrator on his campus recognized importance of small district independence and is quick to highlight Dillard’s leadership potential and encouraged him to get into the merits of a smaller district versus a large one. Unsurprisingly, administration himself. The move wasn’t immediate; Dillard spent those merits align with the benefits of broader small-town life.

Texas School Business 22 SEPTEMBER / OCTOBER 2018 “Everybody knows everybody, and that’s needs of smaller districts in mind and avoid twofold,” Dillard says. “You better watch out the “cookie cutter.” what you do and what you say, but we also “TARS supports and guides the legislative know when you need support and attention interests of rural schools, and we have boots and guidance. It takes a village to raise a “We want to make on the ground in the Capitol,” Dillard says. child, and I think you get more of that in “We want to make sure that when legislators rural schools; every place I’ve been is like sure that when go to the table to make decisions, they keep t h at .” legislators go to us in mind.” Dillard also points to the speed with which In Dillard, TARS has a president who both small districts can implement new ideas the table to make understands that Texas’ rural districts’ needs and reforms as an advantage over larger decisions, they keep vary widely from district to district, and ones. “When an idea trickles out of the believes strongly in giving those districts developmental stage to the implementation us in mind.” the freedom to address those needs as they folks, there’s a big gap in large districts. see fit. In a small town, he says, people often In a rural district, the developers and carve out a way of life that is unique and implementers often work together.” specific to the needs of those living there, None of that is to say Dillard views small and oftentimes, that town’s school is the district life through rose-colored glasses; beating heart of the community. he’s more than familiar with the challenges “We just want to protect what we have,” Texas’ rural districts face, such as funding, “A cookie-cutter approach to rulemaking Dillard emphasizes. To an outsider, it might staffing and general resources, among doesn’t work for all districts,” he says, and be easy to make the mistake of assuming that others. However, when asked if TARS stresses that the needs of a multi-school isn’t much. In the eyes of Dillard, and others could be pushing the state to do more to rural district like his in Littlefield are quite like him in Texas’ rural school community, actively support those districts, he speaks in different than those of a single-campus it’s everything. terms of the organization’s role being more district. One of TARS’ primary functions, of a defensive one, and thinks autonomy and one he says they’re going to be sure to JAMES GOLSAN is a writer and education for Texas’ rural schools to address those emphasize during the 86th Legislature in professional based in Austin. challenges in their own way is paramount. 2019, is to make sure lawmakers keep the

All contracts are EDGAR compliant. Legal Contracts Procurement Made Easy The Right Resources. Right Now. Food/Cafeteria Supplies • Bread, Dairy, Frozen Desserts, Grocery, Produce Supplies • Commodity Processing • Books and Textbooks • Food Supplies/Equipment • Educational/Instructional • Furniture • Nutrition Software • Janitorial • Medical • Office • Supply Catalog Services Facility Services • Art Consulting • Drug Testing • Insurance • Athletic Surfaces • Disaster Recovery/Restoration • Moving • Printing • Security Officers • Electrical • Elevator • Energy: Electricity, Fuel • Temporary Staff • Exterior Cleaning • Flooring • HVAC Technology • IDIQ Construction (JOC) • Lawn Care • Audio Visual • Equipment, Training, Service • Modular Buildings • Painting • Playgrounds • Hardware, Software, Supplies • Plumbing • Roofing and Waterproofing • Infrastructure, Software Services • Tree Trimming • Trenchless Technology Rehab • Safety, Security Systems • Water Quality, Waste Management No-Cost Membership Sign an interlocal agreement and start using Choice Partners contracts. Join Today Visit www.choicepartners.org/membership or call 877-696-2122. Purchasing Cooperative of Ask about our facilities planning services. Harris County Department of Education

Texas School Business SEPTEMBER / OCTOBER 2018 23 PRESIDENT PROFILE Texas Association of School Administrators

TASA President Gayle Stinson urges administrators to prioritize self-care

by James Golsan

r. Gayle Stinson is the definition of homegrown success as Stinson graduated from UT in 1991 with a degree in advertising, but superintendent of Lake Dallas ISD. The president of the it quickly became clear it wasn’t a career that felt like home to her. DTexas Association of School Administrators (TASA) is not Fortunately, it didn’t take long for her hometown to come calling and just a Lake Dallas native, she’s a district legacy and alumna. Raised offer an alternative—a position teaching English and coaching in by a single mother who was an employee of Lake Dallas ISD, Stinson Lake Dallas ISD. says that the halls of the education facility were always a big part of “The same people who raised me are the ones who turned around her life, and has fond memories of running through empty school and picked me up as an adult, literally and figuratively,” she says. hallways during childhood summers. Success came quickly to Stinson in the education field. An assistant None of that is to say a career in education was a foregone conclusion principal at age 27, it was then that she first became involved with for Stinson. She recognized early in life that if she wanted to escape TASA, at the insistence of a coworker. poverty, she had two paths forward: academics and athletics. A highly successful student-athlete at Lake Dallas ISD, Stinson was valedic- “He said ‘You’re going to be a part of this organization, and you’re torian of her graduating class in 1987 and a good enough basketball going to learn,’” Stinson says. She proved a fast study. Marriage and player to receive multiple athletic scholarship offers. She opted to her career took her to Texarkana for a decade, but in 2007, Stinson prioritize her academic career and attended the University of Texas at returned to Lake Dallas ISD, this time as superintendent. She’s held Austin with a full scholarship from the Terry Foundation. the position ever since, and is quick to credit TASA with a substantial share of her professional success.

Texas School Business 24 SEPTEMBER / OCTOBER 2018 Another major goal, and one that ties directly to TASA’s push for more student-centric “I’ve been fortunate schools, is a comprehensive accountability enough to spend my system that goes beyond high-stakes, multiple choice exams. career around “It’s important to give at least as much people who know the weight to what a local community deems important in their education system as we importance do legislators,” she says, and adds that TASA of a state organization stands strongly opposed to the state’s A-F accountability system, which goes into effect and the professional during the 2018-19 school year. learning that can be To say this is a busy time for Stinson, with a derived from that new school year kicking off and a legislative session on deck, would be an understate- organization." ment, and she knows the same is true for everyone in Texas’ education community, particularly administrators. To that end, TASA’s new chief encourages those in education leadership positions to do something “I’ve been fortunate enough to spend my her own participation in TASA taught her: career around people who know the impor- prioritize self-care. tance of a state organization and the professional learning that can be derived from that “You can’t serve from an empty cup,” she organization,” she says. says. “Before you can take care of your district or your leadership team or your family, As TASA’s president, Stinson highlights a you have to be able to take care of yourself.” three-pillared mission for the organization. The first, professional learning, is something This sort of leadership, the kind that applies she experienced firsthand as she advanced at once to an educator’s career and life as a her career from teacher/coach to principal to whole, is what Stinson brings to the table as district-level leadership. The second pillar is TASA president. Her passion for the work advocacy, both on behalf of Texas students, TASA does and the important role the orga- educators and administrators, and for an ed- nization plays in Texas’ education communi- ucated citizenry as a whole. The third pillar ty shines through in everything she says, but is strong membership engagement, which perhaps no more clearly than in her parting Stinson says supports the first two. words on the organization. “Strong membership engagement fuels “It’s important for people to know that I’m a strong leadership,” Stinson says, and stresses better superintendent and human being for the importance of that leadership in a having an opportunity to spend time with climate in which she says public education is my colleagues in TASA,” she says. “They re- often “under siege.” fresh me, they inspire me, they challenge me and they give me a network to fall back on.” “It’s important for people to know that TASA believes in the promise of public education,” In a field as challenging as education, that Stinson says. “Our goal is to transform kind of support system is invaluable, and schools into student-centered organizations.” one Stinson hopes more Texas educators will recognize the merits of during her time as It’s a goal TASA stands more than ready TASA president. to address when the 86th Texas Legisla- ture kicks off in January. Stinson says the JAMES GOLSAN is a writer and education profes- organization will fight for more district-level sional based in Austin. discretion on education spending, improved school safety, and better funding for Texas’ struggling Teacher Retirement System, specifically to support healthcare costs for a growing population of retired educators.

Texas School Business SEPTEMBER / OCTOBER 2018 25 Who’s News Eagle Mountain-Saginaw ISD • Tanya Galindo, Zavala Elementary School; The district’s new director > Continued from page 11 for safety and security, • Marissa King, Burnet Elementary School; Barry Baker, was previously • Crystal Marquez, Sam Houston Tech University and a master’s degree in director of secondary student Elementary School; business administration from the University services. He earned his of Houston-Victoria. bachelor’s degree from Baylor • Julie Marshall, Hays STEAM Academy; University, his master’s degree • , Ireland Elementary School; in education from Texas A&M University at Katy Ochoa Commerce, and his doctorate in educational • Adam Portillo, Alternative Education Dalhart ISD administration from Texas A&M University Center; at Texarkana. Coming to his new position as • Gerardo Ramirez, Falcon Early College superintendent from Abilene Derrick Doyle has been High School; ISD, where he was executive promoted from assistant director of human resources, band director and percussion • Valerie Rivera, Blackshear Elementary is Joe Alcorta. He began his director to director of bands at School. career in Abilene ISD in 1992, Chisholm Trail High School. leaving to take a principalship He previously served as a in Wylie ISD and returning to Abilene as percussion instructor at the Edgewood ISD (San Antonio) director of personnel in 2011. Alcorta earned University of Arkansas, Abilene Christian , former his bachelor’s degree from Texas A&M University and Owasso High School in Eduardo Hernandez chief of schools and chief University and his master’s degree from Oklahoma. His bachelor’s and master’s officer of academics and Tarleton State University, from which his degrees in music were awarded from the innovation of Duncanville ISD, doctorate in educational leadership was also University of Arkansas and his master of now leads Edgewood ISD as awarded. divinity degree from Abilene Christian superintendent. During his 19- University. year career, he has also worked Boswell High School’s in Terrell, Crowley and Dallas ISDs. His Decatur ISD new director of bands is bachelor’s degree was awarded from Texas Carson Elementary School’s Kevin Fallon, who has been Christian University and his master’s and new principal, Craig Weston, with the school since 2015 as doctoral degrees from Texas A&M University comes to Decatur from Keller assistant band director and at Commerce. ISD, where he was principal jazz band director. Prior to of Park Glen Elementary. He joining the district, he was began his career as a teacher head band director at Azle High in Azle ISD El Paso ISD in Northwest, Leander and and at Riverton High School in Utah. His Austin ISDs before joining Keller ISD as an bachelor’s degree was earned from Brigham Veteran educator assistant principal in 2015. Young University and his master’s degree in Marc Escareno has been conducting and pedagogy from Sam Houston named principal of Coronado State University. High School. Formerly assistant principal of Franklin Denton ISD Misty Fletcher is now assistant High, he previously led Former Adkins Elementary principal principal of Remington Point Kohlberg Elementary. He Elementary School, coming Emily McLarty began the 2018-19 school holds a bachelor’s degree from the University year as principal of Borman Elementary to her new position from of Maryland and a master’s degree from the School. She holds a bachelor’s degree from working as an instructional University of Texas at El Paso. the University of Oklahoma and a master’s math coach at Gilliland Elementary. She holds a The new principal of degree in educational administration from Cooley Elementary School, the University of North Texas. bachelor’s degree and a master’s degree in educational leadership from the University of Elizabeth Prangner, has Erin Vennell has been promoted from North Texas. 30 years of experience as a assistant principal to principal of Adkins teacher, assistant principal and Elementary School. She formerly taught principal, including stints as in Lewisville ISD. Her bachelor’s degree in Ector County ISD a bilingual teacher in Grand elementary education and master’s degree Prairie and Dallas ISDs. Her bachelor’s degree in educational leadership are from the Diana Mata has retired as district director and two master’s degrees were awarded from University of North Texas. of AVID (Advancement Via Individual the University of Texas at El Paso. Determination). Her 29-year career, 27 of those spent with Ector County ISD, began in Amarillo ISD, where she was a bilingual Fort Sam Houston ISD (San Antonio) Donna ISD teacher. Mata earned her bachelor’s degree New superintendent Hafedh Azaiez comes from West Texas State University (now West Superintendent Gail Siler, who led the district to Donna from Spring ISD, where he was Texas A&M University) and her master’s for 14 years, retired at the end of August. assistant superintendent of middle schools. degree in counseling from Sul Ross State During her tenure, the district received 2007’s He holds a bachelor’s degree in physics and University. HEB Excellence in Education award for best chemistry from La Faculte des Sciences de small school district. She was 2012’s ESC The following principal assignments have Region 20 Superintendent of the Year. Tunis in Tunisia, a master’s degree from the been made: University of St. Thomas and a doctorate in educational leadership from Sam Houston • Sandra Banda, Dowling Elementary State University. School;

> See Who’s News, page 32 Texas School Business 26 SEPTEMBER / OCTOBER 2018 Photo Feature

TASA AND UT HOST 70TH ANNUAL JOINT SUMMER CONFERENCE The University of Texas at Austin’s College of Education teamed up with the Texas Association of School Administrators to host a joint summer conference with a focus on engaging communities to protect students.

▲Alissa Parker signs copies of her book, ▲ Conference attendees took in two full days of presentations concerning school safety. “An Unseen Angel: A Mother’s Story of Faith, Hope, and Healing After Sandy Hook,” for Jack Irvin, Pine Tree ISD.

► Rep. Gary VanDeaver, John ▲Mikayla Myers, Austin ISD, and Chris Booth, DeKalb Evoy, Austin Police Department, address ISD, and Ben conference attendees. Coker, BuyBoard.

►Chris Cook, Texas Tech University, speaks on the importance of having a well-prepared crisis communication plan.

◄ Conference attendees network between sessions. Texas School Business SEPTEMBER / OCTOBER 2018 27 Calendar

Professional development & events

October 11-12 TASSP Region 9 Fall Meeting STAND OUT Texas ASCD Curriculum ESC Region 9, Wichita Falls FROM THE CROWD! Leadership Academy (session 1 For more info, (512) 443-2100. of 3) www.tassp.org Get premium placement and get noticed! For a nominal fee, Weslaco ISD, Weslaco you can showcase your conference, workshop or seminar on For more info, (512) 477-8200. TASSP Region 17 Fall Meeting www.txascd.org Shallowater High School, the opening page as a Featured Event. Contact Ann Halstead Shallowater at [email protected] for more details. October 14-15 For more info, (512) 443-2100. TASSP Fundamental 5 National www.tassp.org Summit OCTOBER October 5 Location TBA, San Antonio TEPSA Region 4 Fall Meeting Legal Digest Back to School For more info, (512) 443-2100. ESC Region 4, Houston October 1 Workshop www.tassp.org For more info, (512) 478-5268 or Legal Digest Back to School ESC Region 19, El Paso (800) 252-3621. Workshop For more info, (512) 478-2113. TEPSA Assistant Principals www.tepsa.org ESC Region 7, Kilgore www.legaldigest.com Conference For more info, (512) 478-2113. Cost: $175. Omni Southpark Hotel, Austin TEPSA Region 9 Fall Meeting www.legaldigest.com For more info, (512) 478-5268 or ESC Region 9, Wichita Falls Cost: Early registration (by July October 6 (800) 252-3621. For more info, (512) 478-5268 or 13), $145; regular registration, TEPSA Region 10 Fall Meeting www.tepsa.org (800) 252-3621. $175. Location TBA, Arlington Cost: Early Bird registration www.tepsa.org For more info, (512) 478-5268 or (by Sept. 21): TEPSA members, October 2 (800) 252-3621. $232; nonmembers, $292. After October 18 TEPSA Region 12 Fall Meeting www.tepsa.org Sept. 21: TEPSA members, $282; TEPSA Region 5 Fall Meeting Location TBA, El Paso nonmembers, $342. ESC Region 5, Beaumont For more info, (512) 478-5268 or October 8-9 For more info, (512) 478-5268 or (800) 252-3621. TASPA Fall Support Staff October 15 (800) 252-3621. www.tepsa.org Conference Legal Digest Back to School www.tepsa.org Embassy Suites, San Marcos Workshop October 2-4 For more info, (512) 494-9353. Harris County Department of October 18-19 TASA Curriculum Management www.taspa.org Education, Houston TASB Conference for Audit Training, Level 1 For more info, (512) 478-2113. Administrative Professionals TASA offices, Austin October 9 www.legaldigest.com TASB offices, Austin For more info, (512) 477-6361. TASSP Region 1 Fall Meeting Cost: $175. For more info, (512) 467-0222. www.tasanet.org Location TBA, Laredo www.tasb.org For more info, (512) 443-2100. Cost: TASA members, $750; October 16 www.tassp.org nonmembers, $850. TASBO Personnel and Payroll October 19 Academy Legal Digest Back to School October 3 October 9-10 Courtyard Marriott, Allen Workshop TASSP Region 16 Fall Meeting TASA Academy for For more info, (512) 462-1711. ESC Region 2, Corpus Christi ESC Region 16, Amarillo Transformational Leadership www.tasbo.org For more info, (512) 478-2113. For more info, (512) 443-2100. (session 1 of 4) Cost: TASBO members, $295; www.legaldigest.com San Angelo ISD, San Angelo www.tassp.org nonmembers, $345. Cost: $175. For more info, (512) 477-6361 or TEPSA Region 16 Fall Meeting (800) 725-8272. TASBO Course: Board Policies www.tasanet.org TEPSA Region 2 Fall Meeting Location TBA, Amarillo Location TBA, Corpus Christi and Administrative Procedures Cost: $1,995 for all four sessions. For more info, (512) 478-5268 or For more info, (512) 478-5268 or Grapevine-Colleyville ISD, (800) 252-3621. (800) 252-3621. Colleyville www.tepsa.org October 10 www.tepsa.org For more info, (512) 462-1711. TASBO Operations and Facility www.tasbo.org Masters Conference October 4 Legal Digest Conference: Texas Cost: TASBO members, $170; Embassy Suites Hotel and Texas ASCD Workshop: Educator Ethics in the Digital Age nonmembers, $220. Conference Center, San Marcos Empowering Leaders to Align and Friendswood ISD, Friendswood For more info, (512) 462-1711. Adopt Resources For more info, (512) 478-2113. October 21 www.tasbo.org ESC Region 5, Beaumont www.legaldigest.com Texas ASCD Transformative Cost: TASBO members, $225; For more info, (512) 477-8200. Cost: $150. Principal Leadership Academy www.txascd.org nonmembers, $275. (session 3 of 3) October 17 Horseshoe Bay Resort, Horseshoe TASSP Region 11 Fall Meeting TASBO CSRM Course: Measuring Bay Joe T. Garcia’s, Fort Worth School Risks For more info, (512) 477-8200. For more info, (512) 443-2100. TASBO offices, Austin www.txascd.org www.tassp.org For more info, (512) 462-1711. www.tasbo.org

Texas School Business 28 SEPTEMBER / OCTOBER 2018 October 21-23 October 29-30 Fundamentals Workshop November 14-17 Texas ASCD Annual Conference: Legal Digest Conference: Little Elm ISD, Little Elm Texas Counseling Association A Legacy of Leadership National Educators for For more info, (512) 494-9353. Annual Professional Growth Horseshoe Bay Resort, Restorative Practices www.taspa.org Conference Horseshoe Bay Convention Center, Arlington Sheraton Hotel, Dallas For more info, (512) 477-8200. For more info, (512) 478-2113. November 8-9 For more info, (512) 472-3403 or www.txascd.org www.legaldigest.com Texas ASCD Curriculum (800) 580-8144. Cost: $475. Leadership Academy (session www.txca.org October 23-25 2 of 3) TASA Curriculum Management TASB/TASPA HR Academy Weslaco ISD, Weslaco November 27 Audit Training, Level 1 Austin Marriott North, Round For more info, (512) 477-8200 TASSP Region 2 Fall Meeting TASA offices, Austin Rock or (800) 717-2723. Veterans Memorial High School, For more info, (512) 477-6361. For more info, (512) 494-9353. www.txascd.org Corpus Christi www.tasanet.org www.taspa.org For more info, (512) 443-2100. Cost: TASA members, $750; Cost: $450. November 11-14 www.tassp.org nonmembers, $850. Texas Assessment Conference Hilton Hotel, Austin November 27-28 October 23-27 NOVEMBER For more info, (512) 477-6361 or TASA Academy for Texas ASCD Five-Day (800) 725-8272. Transformational Leadership Workshop: Rigorous November 1 www.tasanet.org (session 2 of 4) Assessment Strategies for TASSP Region 3 Fall Meeting Cost: Early Bird registration San Angelo ISD, San Angelo Location TBA, Victoria Math and STAAR (Aug. 9-Sept. 21): $125. Pre- For more info, (512) 477-6361 or M.O. Campbell Educational For more info, (512) 443-2100. registration (Sept. 22-Oct. 26): (800) 725-8272. www.tassp.org Center, Houston $145. On-site registration: www.tasanet.org For more info, (512) 477-8200. (online registration closes Cost: $1,995 for all four www.txascd.org November 4-5 midnight Oct. 26): $195. sessions. TEPSA Grow Leadership Alternative registration for October 24 Conference November 28-30 Hilton Hotel, Rockwall TACTP members and other TASSP Region 10 Fall Meeting TAGT Annual Conference For more info, (512) 478-5268 or collegiate personnel: Early Spring Creek Barbecue, Bird registration (Aug. 9-Sept. Location TBA, Fort Worth Richardson (800) 252-3621. For more info, (512) 499-8248. www.tepsa.org 21): $125 for Assessment For more info, (512) 443-2100. Conference and TACTP www.txgifted.org www.tassp.org November 6-7 Conference. Pre-registration (Sept. 22-Oct. 26): $145 for November 28-December 1 TEPSA Region 7 Fall Meeting TASB Conference: Asbestos TAHPERD Annual Convention Maintenance and Operations Assessment Conference and Location TBA, Tyler TACTP Conference. On-site Moody Gardens Convention For more info, (512) 478-5268 or TASB offices, Austin Center, Galveston registration (online registration (800) 252-3621. For more info, (512) 467-0222. For more info, (512) 459-1299. closes midnight Oct. 26): $195 www.tepsa.org www.tasb.org www.tahperd.org for Assessment Conference and Cost: Early Bird registration TACTP Conference. October 25 November 7 (by Oct. 1): Professional and TASPA Documentation TASBO Purchasing Boot Camp associate members, $105; Courtyard Marriott, Allen Workshop November 13 student and retired members, Little Elm ISD, Little Elm For more info, (512) 462-1711. TASBO Accounting and Finance $35. Pre-registration (by Nov. For more info, (512) 494-9353. www.tasbo.org Symposium 1): Professional and associate Courtyard Marriott, Allen www.taspa.org Cost: TASBO members, $215; members, $125; student and For more info, (512) 462-1711. nonmembers, $265. retired members, $35. Late www.tasbo.org TASSP Region 8 Fall Meeting registration (after Nov. 1): ESC Region 8, Pittsburg TASSP Region 14 Fall Meeting Cost: TASBO members, $295; Professional and associate For more info, (512) 443-2100. ESC Region 14, Abilene nonmembers, $345. members, $145; student and www.tassp.org For more info, (512) 443-2100. retired members, $45. www.tassp.org November 13-15 TASA Curriculum Management TEPSA Region 6 Fall Meeting November 29-30 ESC Region 6, Navasota November 7-8 Audit Training, Level 2 Dr. John R. Hoyle Memorial TASA offices, Austin For more info, (512) 478-5268 or TASA First-Time Administrative Leadership For more info, (512) 477-6361. (800) 252-3621. Superintendents Academy Institute www.tepsa.org (session 3 of 4) www.tasanet.org Texas A&M University, College Austin Marriott North, Round Cost: TASA members, $750; Station TEPSA Region 8 Fall Meeting Rock nonmembers, $850. For more info, (512) 477-6361 or ESC Region 8, Pittsburg For more info, (512) 477-6361. (800) 725-8272. For more info, (512) 478-5268 or www.tasanet.org November 14 www.tasanet.org (800) 252-3621. Cost: All four sessions: TASSP Region 15 Fall Meeting www.tepsa.org Members, $695; nonmembers, Location TBA, San Angelo $795. Any one session: $250, For more info, (512) 443-2100. DECEMBER October 29 members and nonmembers. www.tassp.org TASBO Accounting and Finance December 3 Symposium November 8 TASSP Region 18 Fall Meeting TASBO Workshop: Project Courtyard Hotel, Pflugerville TASBO Purchasing Academy Location TBA, Midland Management for School For more info, (512) 462-1711. Courtyard Marriott, Allen For more info, (512) 443-2100. Business Professionals www.tasbo.org For more info, (512) 462-1711. www.tassp.org TASBO offices, Austin Cost: TASBO members, $295; www.tasbo.org For more info, (512) 462-1711. nonmembers, $345. Cost: TASBO members, $295; www.tasbo.org nonmembers, $345. Cost: TASBO members, $390; TASPA Certification nonmembers, $440.

Texas School Business SEPTEMBER / OCTOBER 2018 29 December 3-4 December 6-7 JANUARY January 27-28 TASA Curriculum Management Texas Association of Mid-Size TCWSE Annual Conference: Planning Workshop Schools Annual Legislative January 10-11 Framing Our World TASA offices, Austin Conference TASB XG Summit Hilton Hotel, Austin For more info, (512) 477-6361. Lakeway Resort and Spa, Austin Location TBA For more info, (512) 477-6361. www.tasanet.org For more info, (512) 346-2177. For more info, (512) 467-0222 or www.tcwse.org Cost: TASA members, $450; www.midsizeschools.org (512) 580-8272. nonmembers, $500. Cost: TAMS districts: $150 for www.tasb.org January 27-30 first participant, $100 for all TASA Midwinter Conference December 4 others from same district. January 11 Convention Center, Austin TASBO Course: Handling School All other districts: $200 per TASA Leadership Forum: Every For more info, (512) 477-6361. Risks participant with $100 rebate School a STEM School www.tasanet.org/midwinter Cypress-Fairbanks ISD, Houston for joining TAMS. Texas Medical Center, Houston ◄ For more info, (512) 462-1711. For more info, (512) 477-6361. www.tasbo.org December 12 www.tasanet.org TASPA/Legal Digest Personnel Cost: $65. December 5-7 Law Conference for School TASA Curriculum Writing Administrators January 27 Workshop Renaissance Hotel, Austin TASA Budget Boot Camp TASA offices, Austin For more info, (512) 494-9353. Location TBA For more info, (512) 477-6361. www.taspa.org For more info, (512) 477-6361. www.tasanet.org www.tasanet.org Cost: TASA members, $450; December 12-14 nonmembers, $500. TASPA Winter Conference Renaissance Hotel, Austin For more info, (512) 494-9353. www.taspa.org

You can help Texas School Business brag on your schools! Submit your nomination today for possible inclusion in the 12th Annual Bragging Rights 2018-19 special issue, which honors 12 deserving school districts and their innovative programs. Every winter, Texas School Business publishes and distributes this special issue to thousands of stakeholders in Texas public education. Does your school or district have a program that's wildly successful? Then you could be featured among our Top 12! HOW DO I NOMINATE A PROGRAM? Simply visit texasschoolbusiness.com and fill out the Bragging Rights online nomination form. The nomination deadline is 5 p.m., Friday, Sept. 14, 2018. Winners will be announced with the debut of the 12th Annual Bragging Rights 2018-19 special issue, out on Dec. 1, 2018. RULES • Nominated programs must have been in operation for at least one school semester. • There is no limit on number of nominations submitted per school or school district. Questions? Contact [email protected]

Texas School Business 30 SEPTEMBER / OCTOBER 2018 STUDENT VOICES

How a safari adventure developed my love for writing

by Alora Jones

he lights were dimmed, and the Almost every school day, she had a special We ended our year with Worm Day. We gleaming eyes were staring at me. writing prompt planned for us. One day, she had to decorate a T-shirt for this special TNo, I was not kidnapped and locked told us we were not allowed to bring our day. Mine said, “Worms are fish bait, not inside a cave. Rather, I am talking about the backpack to school, and we could only bring fourth-grader bait.” She bought each of us a days I sat in my fourth-grade classroom and our school supplies in a large black trash bag. live worm, and we had to write a story about developed my love for writing. We were very confused, and other kids from the life of our worm. While we were writing, My fourth-grade teacher, Mrs. Ball, was such different classes looked at us funny when we she was cooking “worms” for us to eat in a an interesting character. She welcomed us to showed up to school with trash bags slung Crock-Pot. She told us that four lucky stu- her safari, also known as her classroom, each over our shoulders. Our prompt that day was dents were going to have a bag put over their and every morning. Her safari looked like an to write about what it would be like to live head and be fed live worms, while the rest ate actual jungle, she kept the lights dimmed at only with the items that could fit into our cooked worms. We all had a slight freak-out all times, had a multitude of stuffed animals trash bags. Her message to us was that some session because we had our worms sitting in every nook and cranny, and of course people live every single day with items inside on our tables and didn’t want to eat mem- plants were dispersed throughout the room. a trash bag and to be extremely grateful for bers of their family. Well, it turned out the This place was an oasis for fourth-graders. the blessings we are given. live “worms” were hotdogs, and the cooked “worms” were Frito pie. We began each morning by writing a story Another day, she asked us to bring umbrellas on Freddy, our overhead projector. We went to school. Again we were confused because Mrs. Ball loved writing and was adamant on around the classroom and everyone con- the weather showed it was not going to rain. getting every single student to share her love tributed the next sentence to the story. Once She made us go outside and write a story of the art by the end of the year. After Worm we were finished, Mrs. Ball would draw a under our umbrella about what it would be Day, every student not only loved Mrs. Ball beautiful picture next to our story. Often, like if it never stopped raining. Sure enough with all their heart, but writing as well. Mrs. these were very silly and got us energized while we were outside, it started to rain. Our Ball believed in me more than any teacher for a wonderful day at school. We had to class could not control our laughter—thank I have ever had. She encouraged me every copy these stories into our journals that we goodness we had umbrellas. We all thought single day to continue to write no matter decorated with pictures of ourselves, and Mrs. Ball was psychic after that day. what. She told me that some people may love of course safari animals, with our special, Not long after umbrella day, I tried out for your writing while others may hate it, but if customized, zebra-print pencils that were the UIL Creative Writing team. Sadly, I did you love it that’s the only thing that matters. labeled “Mrs. Ball’s Safari Adventure.” not make the team. I went to Mrs. Ball’s Two short years later when I was in the sixth room so upset that afternoon. She consoled grade, I received a call that Mrs. Ball had After we finished our stories, we would passed on. She had been battling cancer but gather up in Cozy Corner. Cozy Corner was me, telling me it was going to be alright and those people had no idea what they were wanted to stay with her students until the an area of the classroom that was filled with very end. Hearing she was gone was some of couches, chairs, pillows and blankets and doing. She collected all the writing I had done throughout the year, marched me down the hardest news I have ever had to fathom. was dedicated to reading. Mrs. Ball would This woman impacted my life significantly. sit on the couch, while we sat in a semicircle to the coach’s classroom and made them read my samples. She then proceeded to tell Some of her last words to me were, “Alora, around her. She read us numerous mystery I want you to become a writer one day; you books in Cozy Corner. Mrs. Ball would never them they made the wrong choice, and sure enough the next day I was on the team. have some of the best talent I have ever seen.” read to us without her flashlight illuminat- So here I am, a high school senior who is ing her face to give the story a spooky aura. As you can probably tell, Mrs. Ball spent a lot going to the University of Texas to major While she read, she encouraged us to yell out of time teaching us how to write. Her dedica- in journalism, all thanks to a teacher who every time we heard figurative language. This tion to writing paid off—all of my classmates changed my life forever. taught us how to apply similes, metaphors, were commended on our end-of-the-year power and voice to our writing. writing test, and most of us received a perfect ALORA JONES graduated from Little Cypress- score. Mauriceville High School in May. She currently studies journalism at the University of Texas.

“Student Voices” is a regularly featured column in Texas School Business. It’s an opportunity for students of all ages from across Texas to share their experiences in K-12 public schools. Contact Editorial Director Dacia Rivers at [email protected] for publishing guidelines.

Texas School Business SEPTEMBER / OCTOBER 2018 31 Who’s News Galveston ISD Hays CISD The new principal of Austin Middle School Tom Green Elementary > Continued from page 26 is Matthew Neighbors, former assistant School has a new principal. principal and director of media arts, Jennifer Hanna was most innovation and entrepreneurship at Ball recently assistant principal of Fort Worth ISD High School. He spent the past 14 years of Hillcrest Elementary. Prior to Daniel Garcia has accepted the role of his 21-year career at the school, also working that, she was an instructional director of safety and security. A graduate as a social studies teacher, instructional coach and third-grade of the FBI National Academy, he has more coach and cross-country and basketball teacher. coach. He holds a bachelor’s degree from than 15 years of supervision experience Charli Lennon, principal of in law enforcement and security. He is a Texas A&M University and a master’s degree from Texas Tech University. Simon Middle School, comes former member of the Fort Worth Police to her new campus from Department, where he was the first Hispanic Former Austin Middle School principal Klein ISD, where she was an captain. Cathy Van Ness is now principal of assistant principal at Cain The district announces the hiring of Rosenberg Elementary School. She began High School. David Johnson as senior budget and finance her career in the district in 1991 as a teacher officer. Formerly Cleburne ISD’s chief at the school, going on to lead Alamo financial officer, he also served in that Elementary before taking her most recent Highland Park ISD (Dallas) capacity in Keene ISD. position in 2008. A Galveston native, she received a bachelor’s degree from Sam Hyer Elementary School A new director of athletics is in place. Houston State University and a master’s began the new academic year Todd Veseley comes to Fort Worth from degree in educational leadership from the with Debbie Burt as principal. Ector County ISD, where he held the University of Houston-Clear Lake. Most recently principal of same position. With more than 20 years of Vaughan Elementary and the coaching experience, he has led five state GATE (Gifted and Talented championship teams, is a four-time Texas Elementary) Academy in Coach of the Year and was twice named the Georgetown ISD Allen ISD, she is a graduate of the University National High School Gymnastics Coach of Courtney Acosta, who for of Texas with master’s degrees from the the Year. the past four years has been University of North Texas and Dallas Baptist The following principal appointments have principal of McNeil High University. been made: School in Round Rock ISD, is now Georgetown Betsy Cummins has returned • Roberto Baeta-Gutierrez, Waverly Park ISD’s executive director to HPISD to serve as Elementary School; for campus operations and principal of Armstrong school leadership. She began her career in Elementary. She was a teacher • Suzelle Birkmire, Meadowbrook at that school before joining Elementary School; Goose Creek and Clear Creek ISDs after earning a bachelor’s degree from Texas Garland ISD as principal of • Ronnita Carradine, Beal Elementary A&M University. Her master’s degree in Abbett Elementary. She holds School; educational administration was awarded a bachelor’s degree from Baylor University from Lamar University. and a master’s degree from the University of • Keith Christmas, Peak Elementary North Texas. School; Georgetown ISD announces the appointment of Alfonso Longoria as • , Boulevard Heights Terry Guthrie principal of Tippit Middle School. He was Elementary School; Houston ISD academy director at Austin ISD’s Kealing • Alberto Herrera, Rosen Elementary Middle School and prior to that was a Houston ISD’s first female athletic director, School; coach and teacher in Del Valle, Pflugerville, Marmion Dambrino, retired in August. After Round Rock and Leander ISDs. He earned four years in Aldine ISD, she joined Houston • Kendall Miller, Daggett Elementary his bachelor’s degree in exercise and sports ISD 30 years ago, becoming athletic director School; science from Texas State University, where of the largest school district in Texas and • Steven Moore, Leadership Academy at he also received his master’s degree in seventh largest in the country in 2010. After Logan Elementary School; education and community leadership. earning her bachelor’s degree from Southern Mississippi University, she began her career • LaTonya Ordaz, Elliott Elementary in Pascagoula, Miss., going on to receive a School; Harris County Department master’s degree in education from Prairie • Misty Rothermund, Morningside View A&M University. Elementary School; of Education Stephanie Ross has been • Sharon Schultze, Peace Elementary named director of the Harris Humble ISD School; County Department of Michael Nasra, principal of • Julie Yost, McRae Elementary School. Education’s adult education division. A graduate of Texas Kingwood High School, has Southern University, she returned to Humble ISD after earned her master’s degree in spending the past four years Friona ISD business administration from the University as principal of Keller High School in Keller ISD. His 16 Jimmy Burns has been hired to serve of Phoenix. as superintendent. Most recently the years of experience in HISD superintendent of Hawley ISD, he has been also includes serving as associate principal an educator for 25 years. of Atascocita High and assistant principal of Sterling Middle School and Humble High.

Texas School Business 32 SEPTEMBER / OCTOBER 2018 He received his bachelor’s degree from Judson ISD degree in administration and supervision Southwestern University and his master’s from the University of Houston. and doctoral degrees from the University of Jeanette Ball has accepted the role of has been Houston. district superintendent. She began her Diego Linares career in 1998 in San Antonio’s Southwest named principal of Raines ISD as a teacher, going on to serve as an High School and the district’s administrator there before spending the past Opportunity Awareness Irion County ISD five years as superintendent of Uvalde ISD. Center. He spent 15 years Former Union Grove superintendent with Houston ISD before Brian Gray is the new district joining Katy ISD. superintendent. Katy ISD Newly appointed director of purchasing Gloria Truskowski Kerri Finnesand is now previously worked in Fort principal of Seven Lakes High Bend ISD as assistant director Irving ISD School. She is the former of purchasing and material principal of Wood Creek Barton Elementary School management. She has a Junior High and a 22-year began the new school year bachelor’s degree in business educator. A graduate of Penn with Manuel Espino as administration from the University of State University, she earned principal. Most recently an Houston. assistant principal at Austin her master’s degree from the University of Middle School, he came to Houston. Former Seven Lakes High School principal Irving from Garland ISD Michelle Gaskamp, former is now assistant after earning his bachelor’s degree from assistant principal of Ted Vierling superintendent of operations. Stephen F. Austin State University. He also Randolph Elementary The Katy High School holds a master’s degree in educational School, is now principal. graduate has been with the administration from Texas A&M University Her 18-year career began district for 20 years. He at Commerce and is at work on a doctorate. in Alief ISD and she joined holds a bachelor’s degree from Texas A&M Katy ISD in 2005. She holds Kelly Giddens has transferred University and a master’s degree from the a bachelor’s degree in social work from the from Barton Elementary University of Houston. School, where she was University of Texas and a master’s degree in principal for the past three education management from the University years, to the top job at Stipes of Houston. Keller ISD Elementary. She received her A 28-year veteran educator, master’s degree in educational Cheryl Glasser, is now Keller High School has a new leadership and policy studies from the principal of Rylander principal. Lisa Simmons, who University of Texas at Arlington. Elementary School. She came has been with the district Henry Taylor has been to the district in 2013 as for 15 years, was associate promoted from Haley principal of Morton Ranch principal for the past three Elementary School assistant Elementary. years. She earned her principal to principal. He bachelor’s degree from the The new principal of University of North Texas and her master’s began his career in Irving ISD McMeans Junior High before working in Dallas ISD degree in education administration from is Steve Guzzetta, a 24- Grand Canyon University. for several years, returning year employee of the to Irving in 2015. He has a bachelor’s district. Initially a teacher degree from the University of New Orleans at Katy Junior High, he and a master’s degree in educational was associate principal of Kerens ISD administration from Lamar University. Taylor High School for the past three years. Previously the principal of Malakoff High Former Haley Elementary He has a bachelor’s degree from Texas School in Malakoff ISD,Martin Brumit now School principal Alberto A&M University and a master’s degree in leads Kerens ISD as superintendent. An Zavala has accepted the lead educational administration from Prairie educator for 25 years, he also served as an position at Good Elementary. View A&M University. assistant principal in Denton ISD, receiving An educator for more than a Kristin Harper is the new the Educator of the Year award from the decade, he began his career principal of Seven Lakes Association of Texas Professional Educators in Dallas ISD and joined Junior High. She has been an (ATPE). Irving ISD in 2011. The Irving native and educator for 24 years, 10 of Nimitz High graduate earned his bachelor’s those as a teacher and 14 as and master’s degrees from the University of an administrator. She earned Killeen ISD Texas at Arlington. her bachelor’s degree from Former Montague Village Elementary the University of Wyoming and a master’s degree from the University of Houston. assistant principal Jane Apodaca has accepted the principal position at Skipcha Jacksonville ISD Anna Hinojosa, the new Elementary School. Named 2011’s ESC New West Side Elementary School principal principal of Wolfe Elementary Region 12 Elementary Teacher of the Year, Alicia Tennison is a 26-year educator who School, returns Katy, where she graduated from Northern Kentucky has worked as a music teacher, elementary she taught for four years University and received her master’s degree classroom teacher, instructional coach and before accepting a position in in educational administration from Lamar assistant principal. Most recently, she was Allen ISD. She most recently University. the district’s ESL coordinator. served as principal of Mission Bend Elementary in Fort Bend ISD. She received her bachelor’s degree and master’s > See Who’s News, page 34 Texas School Business SEPTEMBER / OCTOBER 2018 33 Who’s News assessment and evaluation. years as the school’s athletic trainer. He A graduate of the University earned his bachelor’s and master’s degrees of Wisconsin at LaCrosse, he from Texas A&M University at Commerce. > Continued from page 33 earned his master’s degree from the University of Texas Adam Gray has been appointed principal of The new principal of Manor Middle School and his doctorate from Texas A&M University. Vickery Elementary is Rhea Lynn Brooks Bell, former director of School after having served curriculum and instruction at Ellison High Former Paschal High School as principal of Polser School. She has also worked in the district as principal Theresa Mossige Elementary since 2014. He a teacher and summer school principal. has left Fort Worth ISD to holds a bachelor’s degree New Rancier Middle School principal assume the role of assistant in English literature from Ohio State superintendent for secondary University and two master’s degrees, one Alan Gawryszewski began his career as a education. She was in her from American University and a second in teacher and coach in Culberson County previous position for eight educational leadership from the University ISD in 1990, going on to work in Kerrville, years. of Texas at Arlington. Yorktown and Victoria ISDs. He has been assistant principal of Killeen High School Mike Rockwood has accepted Lisa Phelps has been since 2013. the position of chief of promoted from assistant staff. He has been with principal of Wellington Kara Trevino, who was principal of Patterson LCISD since 2012, serving Elementary to principal Middle School since 2014, is now principal as executive director of of Polser Elementary of Killeen High School. She has taught and community relations. A School. She has been an coached in KISD since 2001, joining Killeen graduate of Texas A&M administrator in the district High in 2005 as an instructional specialist. University with a master’s degree from The for seven years and was a teacher in Jennifer Washington has been promoted George Washington University, he is at work Lewisville and Denton ISDs for 11 years from Manor Middle School principal to on his doctorate in educational leadership at prior to that. She received her bachelor’s district director of student hearings. She has Baylor University. degree in education and her master’s degree been an educator for 30 years, also working Stepping into the role of in educational administration from Texas in Denton, Mansfield, DeSoto and Temple school safety coordinator is Woman’s University. ISDs. Her bachelor’s degree was awarded Dallis Warren, former police from Tarleton State University and her chief of Rosenberg. He has master’s degree in education from Texas 40 years of law enforcement Lipan ISD A&M University at Commerce. experience, 25 of those in Now serving as superintendent is Micah Wells has been named principal of administration and holds Ralph Carter, who most recently led the Shoemaker High School, transferring from a bachelor’s degree from the University of Jessieville School District in Arkansas. Rancier Middle School, which he led since Houston-Downtown and a master’s degree In Texas, he was superintendent of West 2015. Prior to joining Killeen ISD in 1999 from Sam Houston State University. Hardin County CCISD and director of the as a teacher and coach, he spent nine years Leon County Special Education Co-op. as head baseball coach at the University of He earned bachelor’s and master’s degrees Mary Hardin Baylor. Leander ISD from Oklahoma Christian University Now leading Patterson Middle School is and a master’s degree in educational Angela Hodges is the new principal of administration and doctorate in educational Latisha Williams, who was the school’s Steiner Ranch Elementary School. She assistant principal. She began her career in leadership from Sam Houston State began her career in 2006 in Baton Rouge, University. the district in 1999 as a teacher and coach La., coming to Texas to join Pflugerville and served as head girls’ basketball coach at ISD, most recently serving as principal of Killeen High School. Windermere Elementary. Lockhart Now serving as principal of Parkside Elementary School is Lauren Meeks, who Mark Estrada has been named Lake Travis ISD (Austin) has spent her career in Leander ISD. She district superintendent. He A new principal has been was previously assistant principal of Henry came to Lockhart ISD in 2012 named for Lake Travis Middle School. as principal of Plum Creek Elementary School, going on Middle School. Sherry Baker, Former Parkside Elementary principal who holds a bachelor’s degree to lead Lockhart Junior High Kimberly Waltman is now principal of in interdisciplinary studies and Lockhart High School’s Canyon Ridge Middle School. She has spent freshman campus before being promoted and a master’s degree in her career with Leander ISD, also working as educational leadership, has to assistant superintendent of curriculum a special education teacher and as assistant and instruction. A graduate of Texas State been an educator for more than 20 years. principal of Stiles Middle School. She began her career in Cypress-Fairbanks University with a bachelor’s degree and a ISD and was most recently principal of master’s degree in secondary education, he Wildwood Elementary School in Tomball is a doctoral candidate in the cooperative ISD. Lewisville ISD superintendency program at the University of Texas. Jeffrey Brown, newly appointed principal of Flower Lamar CISD Mound 9th Grade Campus, was most recently an assistant Jonathan Maxwell has accepted the role principal at Flower Mound of executive director of student programs, High School. Prior to that coming to his new job from Clear Creek assignment, he spent five ISD, where he was executive director of > See Who’s News, page 36

Texas School Business 34 SEPTEMBER / OCTOBER 2018 Photo Feature

SUMMER TECHNOLOGY CONFERENCE BRINGS TEXAS ASCD MEMBERS TO IRVING The Texas Association of Supervision and Curriculum Development held its ignite18 conference this summer in Irving, offering three days of hands-on sessions designed to transform curriculum with technology integration.

▲ DJ April Shaw, Grand Prairie ▲ Joshua Brown, Aldine ISD (left) talks with at- ISD (left) takes song requests at tendees after the Innovative Highlights session. Monday’s Welcome Reception.

▲ Dr. Chris Allen, board vice president (left) and Alice Keeler at Monday’s keynote.

▲ Bridget Visser (left), David Arencibia and ▲ Board President Abigayle Barton Jessica Heaton from Colleyville Middle School welcomes attendees to ignite18. prepare for their Innovative Highlights session.

▲ Participants at Makerspace Monday.

▲ Vendors Collin Osburn (left), Craig Dudley, Dr. Charly ▲ Shaily Baranwal (upper left), Lisay Young, Cori Gagliardi, Danielle Jackson, Simmons, Karen Barclay and Morris West at the Welcome Gena Gardiner, Tasha Barker, April Shaw (lower left), Jessica Whitney and Reception. Therese Wafford at ignite’s Welcome Reception. Texas School Business SEPTEMBER / OCTOBER 2018 35 Who’s News assignment, he was with Henderson ISD. Midlothian ISD John York has been promoted from principal Kristopher Vernon, now principal of Seale > Continued from page 34 of Foster Middle School to the district’s Middle School, has joined the district from director of elementary education. Plano ISD, where he held the top position at Frankford Middle School. He began his Longview ISD career in 2004 in DeSoto ISD, going on to Lubbock ISD work in Carrollton-Farmers Branch ISD. Jennifer Bailey, former He earned his bachelor’s degree in history principal of Jackson Alma Cunningtubby has from Texas A&M University and his master’s Elementary in Chapel Hill been named principal of degree in educational leadership from Dallas ISD, now leads Johnson- two elementary schools, Baptist University. McQueen Elementary School. Guadalupe and Jackson. She She also worked as a teacher previously served as assistant Becky Wiginton has been approved as and administrator in Kilgore principal of Dupre and director of college and career readiness, and Hallsville ISDs and was a professor at Maedgen elementaries and, coming to her new job from serving as the Stephen F. Austin State University and a most recently, Waters Elementary. district’s lead elementary school counselor. consultant for ESC Region 7. She has been with MISD since 2010 and The new principal of Foster holds a bachelor’s degree in elementary education from Southwest Texas State Middle School, Ryan Carroll, Lufkin ISD University (now Texas State University). Her was previously principal of Now serving as district superintendent master’s degree in education was awarded Daingerfield-Lone Star High from Tarleton State University. School in that district. A is Lynn Torres, previously deputy graduate of Texas Christian superintendent of teaching and learning. University, he began his She spent 30 years at Lufkin High School career in Tyler ISD. as a Spanish teacher, department head, Miles ISD activities director, and assistant and associate Ware Elementary welcomed principal. After 19 years with the district, new principal Patricia Duck superintendent Robert Gibson has retired. at the beginning of the school His career began with six years in Eden CISD and continued in Aspermont ISD, year. She comes to Longview McKinney ISD from Chapel Hill ISD, where where he spent seven years as the high led Wise Elementary. She McGowen Elementary School’s new school principal before joining Miles ISD. also taught in White Oak and principal, Kimberly Luyster, was previously Tyler ISDs and at LeTourneau University. an assistant principal at Glen Oaks and Malvern elementaries. With more than 28 Nacogdoches ISD Joaquin Guerrero, former years of experience in education, she earned middle school principal in her bachelor’s degree from Baylor University The new chief academic New Diana ISD, returns to and her master’s degree in educational officer is Daya Hill, who Longview ISD as principal leadership from Dallas Baptist University. comes to Nacogdoches of South Ward Elementary. She is pursuing a doctorate in the same field from Pine Tree ISD in Prior to his time in New from the University of North Texas. Longview, where she was Diana, he worked at assistant superintendent of Longview High School and at curriculum, instruction and Early Graduation High. assessment. She held a similar position in Magnolia ISD Now leading Williams Center ISD and also served in administrative Elementary School is Melanie Magnolia ISD announces positions in Texarkana and New Boston ISDs and at Texas A&M University at , who had been the appointment of Mike Hamilton Texarkana. a district instructional Overman as director of specialist. She also served as conference facilities. He will a fifth-grade teacher and UIL coordinator at oversee the district’s new Ware Elementary. conference center, which Northside ISD (San Antonio) opened in August. He brings Maureen Lewis has accepted 16 years of experience to his new position, The following administrative appointments the position of director including serving as head athletic trainer for have been made: of special education. A Magnolia High School. • Lilia Brown, vice principal, Northwest graduate of Stephen F. Austin Crossing Elementary School; State University and Texas Christian University, she • Brent Draker, vice principal, Jordan earned her doctorate from Midland ISD Middle School; Iowa State University. She was a classroom Deanna Flader is the new principal of • Nicole Gomez, assistant principal, Neff teacher for 16 years before working as an Scharbauer Elementary School. She has been Middle School; administrator in Burleson and Duncanville a member of the MISD team since 2011. ISDs. Most recently, she was a special • Laura Hernandez, principal, Mireles The new Sam Houston education field specialist with ESC Region 9. Elementary School; Collegiate Preparatory The district’s new director of Elementary School has • Theresa Long, academic dean, bands is Tommy Moore, a 30- Stephanie Ramos as Stevenson Middle School; year band director who most chancellor. • Michael Lopez, assistant principal, Taft recently served as assistant High School; band director at Longview High School. Prior to that • Naomi Miller, director of governmental relations; Texas School Business 36 SEPTEMBER / OCTOBER 2018 • Sherry Mireles, principal, Rawlinson Pine Tree ISD (Longview) Mary Pugh as principal of Cullins-Lake Middle School; Pointe Elementary School. She comes to The new assistant Rockwall from Coppell ISD, where she was • Wendy Reyes, vice principal, Stevens superintendent for an assistant principal of Wilson Elementary. High School; curriculum and instruction The 17-year educator holds a bachelor’s • Aydee Ruiz, principal, Langley is Eric Cederstrom. He comes degree from the University of Tulsa; her Elementary School; to his new job from Palo master’s degree in human development and Pinto ISD, where he was doctorate in curriculum and instruction • Matthew Scherwitz, vice principal, Los superintendent. were awarded from the University of North Reyes Elementary School; Jill Clay, who was principal Texas. • Serena Torres, vice principal, Mora of Birch Elementary School, Kevin Samples, a 21-year educator, has Elementary School; is now principal of Pine Tree accepted the position of Rockwall High Middle School. • Courtney Trevino, assistant principal, School principal, returning to the district Holmes High School. Formerly the principal where he previously worked as a teacher of Callisburg Elementary and coach. He spent the past four years in Callisburg ISD, leading Mesquite High in Mesquite ISD. Palestine ISD Derrick Conley began the new He holds a bachelor’s degree from Ouachita academic year as principal of Baptist University and a master’s degree in Stephen Cooksey, former principal of Birch Elementary School. education administration from Texas A&M Palestine Junior High, is now principal of University at Commerce. Palestine High School. The district’s newly created director of student services Palestine ISD has named William Stewart position has been filled by coordinator of its newly formed safety Stephen English, former Rule ISD department. He was most recently principal principal of Bremond High Brad Jones has been named superintendent of Palestine High School. School in Bremond ISD. of Rule ISD, coming to his new position The district has approved from Cross Plains ISD, where he was high the hiring of a new fine arts school principal. Paris ISD and UIL academics director. Jeff Chapman has been named head Annette Johnson comes girls’ basketball coach and girls’ athletics to her new position from Rusk ISD Carthage ISD, where she coordinator. With 20 years of experience New superintendent Grey Burton has joined managing and coaching at the high school spent the past eight years as the district from Nacogdoches ISD, where he level, he was most recently with Sulphur technology director. was associate superintendent. Springs ISD and previously worked in Oklahoma’s Idabel and Enid public schools. The following administrative appointments He is a graduate of Sheridan Junior College Plano ISD have also been made: and Phillips University. The district’s new chief operations officer • Cadi Collins, assistant principal, Rusk The new director of career and technical is Theresa Williams, former deputy Intermediate School; education and director of secondary superintendent of Lubbock ISD. She held • Tim Eden, assistant principal, Rusk High education, John McCullough, began his that position for four years. School; career in Jacksonville ISD 25 years ago, going on to work in Sulphur Springs ISD • Ashley Oliver, assistant principal, Rusk Elementary School; before serving as superintendent of Sulphur Ponder ISD Bluff and North Lamar ISDs. He earned his • Jason Wilcox, principal, Rusk bachelor’s degree from Stephen F. Austin Former Lorenzo ISD athletics director Intermediate School. State University and his master’s degree from Kevin Roberts has accepted the position of the University of Texas at Tyler. assistant principal of Ponder High School. San Angelo ISD Pflugerville ISD Quinlan ISD Now serving as director of campus operations and safe environments is Now serving as chief human resources After working for Quinlan ISD for 24 years, Monte Althaus, who most recently was officer isWillie Watson, Jr., former assistant the last five as superintendent,Debra Crosby principal of Lake View High School. superintendent of human resources for retired in June. San Marcos CISD. With more than two The new director of assessment and decades of experience in the field, he holds a counseling is Rebecca Cline, who has been bachelor’s degree in social studies and public Rocksprings ISD with the district since 1998, most recently as administration from Stephen F. Austin State assistant principal of Lincoln Middle School. University and a master’s degree in public The district’s new superintendent, Michelle Helms has been named director Daron Worrell, comes to Rocksprings from administration from the University of North of child nutrition. She comes to her new Sonora ISD, where he was principal of Texas. position from Midland ISD, where she Sonora Middle School. served in the same capacity. Nick Martinez is the district’s new director Rockwall ISD of transportation. He comes to San Angelo The Rockwall ISD board of trustees has announced the appointment of > See Who’s News, page 38 Texas School Business SEPTEMBER / OCTOBER 2018 37 Who’s News serve as high school principal in Rockdale Tyler ISD ISD and as superintendent of West Hardin County CISD. The 28-year educator earned Hubbard Middle School now > Continued from page 37 his doctorate from Sam Houston State has Geoffrey Sherman as University. principal. The former Tyler ISD employee rejoins the from San Antonio’s Edgewood ISD, district from Jacksonville ISD, where he was senior executive director of where he was principal of transportation. Smithville ISD West Side Elementary School Previously principal of Brown Primary since 2015. He holds a bachelor’s degree in School, Michael Caudill has been chosen to history and a master’s degree in educational San Antonio ISD serve as assistant superintendent. The 14- administration from the University of Texas Burbank High School has a year educator has also been a teacher, coach, at Tyler. new head football coach. assistant principal and superintendent as Phil Barron spent the past year well as a consultant in college readiness as offensive coordinator for preparation. Union Grove ISD (Gladewater) the Bulldogs after beginning Former Hawkins ISD high school principal his coaching career in 2007 at Kelly Moore has been approved as South San Antonio ISD and Socorro ISD superintendent of Union Grove ISD. working in North East and Harlandale ISDs. The former assistant principal of Sun Ridge Middle School, Laura Jean Garcia, is now principal of Keleher Elementary. She has Vega ISD San Marcos CISD spent her 23-year career in Socorro ISD A new superintendent has been named for San Marcos High School’s new band and earned both her bachelor’s and master’s degrees from the University of Texas at El the district. Jody Johnson was formerly director, Matt Valentine, received his superintendent of Texline ISD. bachelor’s degree in music studies from Paso. Texas State University. He previously was the A new director of fine arts has associate director of bands in Austin ISD’s been announced for the district. Travis Early College High School and was an Armando Martinez was most recently Veribest ISD instructional staff member for Texas State’s director of bands at Del Valle High School Ryder Appleton has accepted Bobcat Marching Band, also serving as in El Paso’s Ysleta ISD. He has a bachelor’s the position of district drum major. From 2010 to 2014 he served in degree in music from the University of superintendent, coming to the United States Marines’ Drum and Bugle Texas at El Paso and a master’s degree his new job from Abilene Corps. in educational administration from the ISD, where he was director University of Scranton. of career and technical education. He began his has been appointed Sandra Sanchez-Chavira career in Waxahachie and Hempstead ISDs Seguin ISD principal of Shook Elementary, coming and took his first administrative assignment to her new position from Escontrias Robert Arriola has been promoted from vice in Ennis ISD in 2005. He has a bachelor’s Elementary, where she was assistant principal of Rodriguez Elementary School degree in agriculture education from Texas principal. A graduate of Texas Tech to principal. He has spent his career at the A&M University and a master’s degree in University, she began her career in Fabens campus, beginning as a fifth-grade teacher. educational administration from Texas ISD. Her master’s degree in educational His bachelor’s degree in bilingual education A&M University at Commerce. was awarded from the University of North leadership was awarded from the University Texas and his master’s degree in educational of Texas at El Paso. community leadership from Texas State University. Waco ISD The new principal of Weinert Elementary Temple ISD In a reorganization of the special education School is Mary Hernandez, former assistant department, three new directors have been Brent Mathesen has been selected to serve named for Waco ISD. They are: principal of Barnes Middle School. as Temple High School’s head band director. During her 25-year career, she has also He has been an educator for 30 years, the • Suzanne Hamilton, director of been a teacher, instructional specialist, past nine at Temple High, primarily leading centralized programs; science coordinator and specialist with the school’s jazz band. Prior to that, he • Curt McCollum, director of instruction; ESC Region 13. She is a graduate of Texas worked in Bonham, Belton, Rogers and A&M University with a master’s degree in Itasca ISDs and at the Seoul International • Keith Schneider, director of compliance. educational administration from Concordia School in South Korea. University. Renota Rogers, formerly an assistant principal and then associate principal at Ysleta ISD (El Paso) Sinton ISD Temple High School, is now executive Javier Aguilera, previously director of secondary education. She a support teacher at Bel Air Former Iola ISD superintendent Chad Jones began her career in Florida, joining High School, has been named now leads Sinton ISD. A graduate of the Killeen ISD before coming to Temple. She assistant principal of Moore University of Oklahoma with a master’s holds a bachelor’s degree in Spanish and Elementary, which opened its degree from East Central University, he international studies and a master’s degree doors in August. began his career in Norman, Okla., coming in public administration from Louisiana to Texas 13 years later as an administrator State University and a second master’s in in College Station ISD and going on to education from Texas A&M University- Central Texas.

Texas School Business 38 SEPTEMBER / OCTOBER 2018 Ysleta ISD has announced > Continued from page 15 the appointment of as principal Rachel Blair Don’t forget the students are also being of Sageland Elementary “When providing School. The former Parkland challenged to accept big changes. Yes, Elementary assistant we should acknowledge staff who have training and professional principal has been an embraced digital learning and teaching, development for new educator in the district for 19 years. She but it is just as important to acknowledge received her bachelor’s and master’s degrees the students. Reward demonstrations of technology, make sure in education from the University of Texas at successful educational technology usage there is an emphasis on El Paso. in the classroom. It’s one challenge to Maritza Fernandez is now train your staff, but it’s a larger challenge supporting follow-up.” assistant principal of South to make sure your staff is passing on their Loop Elementary School, learning to your students. These are your transferring from El Paso’s pockets on innovation, and it is crucial to Socorro ISD, where she held support the transfer of digital knowledge to and implementation will not be met with the same position. others regardless of their school roles. After success, but every idea is guaranteed to be Norma Myers, most recently all, it isn’t necessary for our technology a learning experience. With good follow- assistant principal at South champions to be only teachers and staff. up and reflection, you can better adapt Loop Elementary School, Students can be empowered to be digital your next program or idea to work for is now the school’s interim leaders and can become some of the most your school. In recognizing and nurturing principal. She has worked in knowledgeable and and creative instructors our pockets of innovation, the culture of Ysleta and Socorro ISDs for for schools. connecting with good digital practices can 27 years and holds bachelor’s enhance learning experiences for the whole and master’s degrees from the University of Last but not least: Exercise patience. school. Texas at El Paso. Sometimes changes in our schools do not happen as quickly as we would like. LeBarron Park Elementary CORI COBURN-SHIFLETT, M.Ed., is a digital School’s former assistant Innovating our schools’ digital educational learning coach for blended learning in Georgetown principal is now principal landscapes requires planning, buy-in ISD and is the Texas Computer Educator of Capistrano Elementary. and connection to agency to make ideas Association Area 13 Director. You can reach her on Christopher Puga began his work within school culture. Every idea Twitter @CoburnCori. career in 2007 and previously worked at Capistrano as a math and science instructional coach. He earned his bachelor’s degree in business administration from the University of Texas at El Paso and his master’s degree in education from Lamar University. ◄ Texas School Business THE News Magazine for Public Education in Texas!

Texas School Business Since 1954, Texas School Business has published positive school news about and for Texas educators and the districts they serve. Considered an institution among Submit public school administrators for its insightful writing and positive message, the Who’s News to: magazine is a mustread for K-12 leadership teams in Texas. news@ texasschoolbusiness.com Annual subscription rate: $24/year Texas School Business provides Subscription includes 6 bimonthly issues, education news to school districts, state organizations plus our annual Bragging Rights special issue and vendors throughout the Subscribe online today at state. With ten issues a year, Texas School Business can be an www.texasschoolbusiness.com effective news source for your organization. Reminder: Active, Associate and Student members of the Texas Association of texasschoolbusiness.com School Administrators receive a copy of Texas School Business magazine as a 406 East 11th Street Austin, Texas 78701 membership benefit. Subscribe now for board members and other members of your leadership team.

Texas School Business SEPTEMBER / OCTOBER 2018 39 Photo Feature

TEPSA MEMBERS GATHER FOR SUMMER CONFERENCE In June, the Texas Elementary Principals and Supervisors Association hosted its annual summer conference in Austin, welcoming school leaders from across the state for a week of learning and networking. Photos by Lifetouch, official photographer of TEPSA.

◄ Corpus Christi ISD principals are #tepsastrong.

▲ Austin ISD principals find new ideas in the exhibit hall.

► Browsing titles in the Scholastic Bookstore. ◄ Executive Director Harley Eckhart recog- nizes TEPSA Region 6 officers: Navasota ISD’s Amy Bay-Weath- erwax, Goodrich ISD’s Kathryn Washington and New Caney ISD’s ▲ Attendees discover Crystal Mayes new children’s books at the Book Talk.

▲ David Lewis, Danielle Taylor and Duane Trujillo from New Braunfels ISD at the general session.

◄ Attendees explore new resources in the exhibit hall.

▲ Ellie Maxwell and ▲ Growing our professional learning network at the Early Elena Hillje from Boerne Career Leaders Luncheon. ISD play the Passport to Prizes game. ► Katy ◄ Frisco ISD’s Lorena ► Fort Worth ISD’s ISD princi- Zertuche takes Stephanie Hughes pals wait a group selfie and Mansfield ISD’s for the during the Tami Vardy. keynote Early Career speaker to Leaders’ begin. Luncheon. Texas School Business 40 SEPTEMBER / OCTOBER 2018 ▲ Keynote presenter Jaime Casap, Google education evangelist. ▲ Keynote speaker Christine Cashen and Canyon ISD’s Jet Delaney.

◄ TEPSA Deputy Execu- tive Director Mark Terry, TEPSA President Manuel Gonzales, Texas Educa- tion Commissioner Mike Morath, Rep. Dan Huberty and TEPSA Executive Di- rector Harley Eckhart with Abigail Watson and Trajan Godbee.

▲ Mentoring Minds’ CEO Shad Madsen and Founder Michael Lujan awarding Texas NDP Jennifer Parker a $10,000 check.

◄ Nancy Davis, Nacogdo- ches ISD, and Reuben Sampson, Port Arthur ISD, take time to share ideas.

► Outgoing TEPSA President Manuel Gonzales, Frisco ISD, ▲ NAESP’s Ann Henley, TEPSA’s Anita hands the Jiles and Oklahoma Principal Kas Nelson at the NAESP booth in the Exhibit Hall. gavel to 2018- ▲ North Carolina’s Travis Crowder and 19 President Navasota ISD’s Todd Nesloney with T-TESS Yolanda Delaney, Cube superheroes. Canyon ISD.

▲ EPSA Executive Director Harley Eckhart with Lufkin ISD’s Cindy Tierney and Fort ▲ Outstanding principals from across Texas host the Early Career Leaders’ Luncheon. Worth ISD’s Vic Eugenio. Texas School Business JULY/AUGUST 2015 41 THE BACK PAGE Texas School Business Advertiser Index

Choice Partners Cooperative...... 23 You’ve got to choicepartners.org ClassLink...... 4 have HEART classlink.com

Part one: Be happy George K. Baum and Co...... 6 Gkbaum.com

by Riney Jordan Harris County Department fter 50 years in education, which talking and visiting with your students? Do of Education...... 13 included being a teacher, working you have a smile on your face most of the HCDE-Texas.org Awith teachers, talking to teachers day? ...... and listening to teachers, I have reached I know these are simple questions, but hon- PBK 8 several conclusions as to what I think makes est responses can reveal if you are either are PBK.com an exceptional educator. Of course, the list is suited for this job, or not. virtually endless, but if you’ll strive to focus School Outfitters...... 2 on the five qualities I have selected, I have a Some of you may be experiencing “burn schooloutfitters.com strong belief that you will make a difference out.” It happens to practically everyone at in the students you serve. some time or another, so overcome it by cre- ...... ating some balance in your life. Leave work Spectrum Corp 5, 17 Spectrumscoreboards.com Over the next five issues, I’ll highlight one of on time occasionally. Spend more leisure these each time, and if you’ll truly make an time with family and friends. Be good to effort to develop these qualities, I guarantee yourself and create some leisure time that Stantec...... 10 you’ll be happier and rewarded greatly for you enjoy. stantec.com/education your effort. Don’t be ashamed or discouraged if teaching And this brings us to our first quality. And it SXSW Edu...... 43 is not for you. Ask yourself, “What would I Sxswedu.com is simply to … be doing if I followed my passion?” Maybe #1 … BE HAPPY it’s time to follow your dream. TASA...... 44 For centuries, philosophers and others Being an educator today is tougher than www.tasanet.org have pondered the virtues of being happy. ever, no matter what your position. It But of everything I’ve read, researched and requires patience, diligence, compassion, TASPA...... 17 analyzed, nothing sums it up better than the planning, analyzing and commitment. Due taspa.org title of a book I read years ago which simply primarily to new and even greater expec- stated, “Happiness is a Choice.” The book tations in our profession, many are leaving itself, by Frank Minirth and Paul Meier, is and seeking other careers. To those who Texas Computer Cooperative...... 15 filled with clinical studies, statistical data, stick with it, the rewards are often few and Texascomputercooperative.net etc., but if you only remember the title, it far between. will be a source of help to you every day. Texas School Business...... 30, 39 This school year, commit to being happy. texasschoolbusiness.com Yes, happiness is, indeed, a choice. We can Smile at students. Spread enthusiasm and choose to be angry and unhappy in our excitement to fellow colleagues. Let others situations, or we can take steps to change the see your joy. As the gift shop sign reads, Texas State Historical problem. For every day we are unhappy, we “Remember, you can never have too much Association...... 25 lose one day of happiness in our life. What a h appy.” tshaonline.org sad thing! One of the biggest complaints I hear about For our purposes here, let’s focus only on educators from parents and non-parents in your role as an educator, while realizing the community is that “they look mad.” Let’s that outside problems can often affect our change that perception of educators. attitude on the job. Let’s be a place where kids are welcomed Ask yourself these questions. First, do you and nurtured. Let’s be a place where joy is love what you’re doing? Do you think you evident. Let’s turn our schools into campuses were given the “gift” of teaching? Do you get filled with happy stuff and a happy staff. excited about introducing new ways for your As my Momma always said, “Don’t knock it students to learn? Do you delight in sharing ‘til you try it.” Advertise in your successful day at school with colleagues, friends and family? Are you excited Next issue: Part two of the series, “You’ve Texas School Business magazine. about the possibilities of success each day got to have HEART.” as you arrive at your job site? Do you enjoy For specs and rates, contact [email protected] RINEY JORDAN is the author of two books and a frequent public speaker. To invite him to speak at your or by calling (800) 725-8272 convocation, graduation or awards banquet, visit www.rineyjordan.com. TexasSchoolBusiness.com Texas School Business 42 SEPTEMBER / OCTOBER 2018 March 4–7, 2019 follow Austin, Texas @sxswedu T

PHOTO BY AMANDA STRONZA The Future of Learning Starts Here Don’t miss out on the lowest rate of the season! Register by September 13. sxswedu.com/earlybird TASA PERIODICALS Texas Association of School Administrators 406 East 11th Street Austin,406 EastTX 78701-26 11th Street17 Austin, TX 78701-2617

TEXAS ASSOCIATION OF SCHOOL ADMINISTRATORS MIDWINTER CONFERENCE JANUARY 27-30 2019

Back cover ad Online 8”r x 8.25”egistration & housing open Tuesday, October 9, 2018

Watch for details coming soon in TASA Daily and on our website at www.tasanet.org/midwinter