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May 2009 HUMBLE INDEPENDENT SCHOOL DISTRICT

Stay Informed Off the Couch Great Teachers New Schools Be a part of the How playing Humble ISD’s Information on our district’s online outdoors benefits Nationally three new schools news network children Certified Teachers under construction page 3 page 4 pages 6-7 page 10-11 2 Your SCHOOLS May 09

Superintendent’s View Seven who serve: May 9 election Board of Trustees. This team effort Three positions on the seven-member Humble ISD Board of Trust- is also responsible for the signifi- ees are up for election this year. Board members are volunteers who serve cant improvement we have seen in without pay. On the ballot will be: Texas Assessment of Knowledge Trustee Position No. 1 ...... Daniel G. Huberty and Skills (TAKS) test results in Trustee Position No. 2...... Aquarius Terry Johnson Reading/Language Arts. I commend Keith W. Lapeze the teachers, principals and cur- Trustee Position No. 3...... Bonnie Longnion riculum leaders across Humble ISD Vernon Reed who worked tirelessly to monitor each student’s learning, in addition to taking time to collaborate with School Board Election: each other on intervention plans and instructional strategies. Their work truly paid big learning dividends for our students. When & where to vote It is important and encourag- Early voting for all precincts: April 27-May 1, 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. by Dr. Guy Sconzo ing to note that state legislators un- May 4-5, 7 a.m. to 7 p.m. This has been one of the derstand the critical need to reform toughest years I can recall, but I the school finance system and are Early Voting Locations will remember the multitude of committed to acting. Community Humble City Hall/Council Chamber, 114 W. Higgins St., Humble blessings, support and outstanding members, especially the volunteers Humble ISD Administration Building, 20200 Eastway Village Dr., Humble achievements that also made this of the Humble ISD Legislative James D. Eggers Instructional Support Center (ISC), one of the best years. We had a bond Committee and members of the 4810 Magnolia Cove Dr., Kingwood referendum, Hurricane Ike, a tax rate Board of Trustees, have worked long Polls will be open 7 a.m. to 7 p.m. on Saturday, May 9 election following a world-wide fi- and hard to make sure our represen- Election Day: nancial meltdown, and now the state tatives and senators understand the legislative session with long-overdue dire financial picture Texas schools Election Day Precincts and Voting Locations school finance reform on the table. face if they do not act and act fast. Precincts 108, 334, 598, 599, 776 vote at: The bond referendum passed Through my years in Humble Humble City Hall/Council Chamber, 114 W. Higgins St., Humble with over 70% voter approval. We ISD, the most positive benefit I Precincts 45, 83, 363, 380,742, 799, 840, 847 vote at: pulled together to get schools open see for our children is our faculty North Belt Elementary School, 8105 North Belt Dr., Humble and lives back to normal after Ike. and staff’s commitment to student Precincts 351, 388, 658, 659, 674, 764 vote at: Because of inadequate and unfair Learning. The high expectations of Oaks Elementary School, 5858 Upper Lake Dr., Humble state funding, we pursued the only parents set the stage and it is up to Precincts 199, 469 vote at: remedy for raising operating revenue us to provide the personalized edu- Foster Elementary School, 1800 Trailwood Village Dr., Kingwood provided by law, a 13 cent tax rate cation that each child deserves. So it Precincts 340, 357, 590, 635, 636, 758 vote at: increase. Despite the economy, our is fitting that this is the hardest and Kingwood Middle School, 2407 Pine Terrace, Kingwood community showed its support and best year I can remember. It dem- Precincts 459, 563, 612, 670, 760 vote at: voted for a tax rate increase with a onstrates that even with adversity, if Creekwood Middle School, 3603 Lake Houston Parkway, Kingwood 65% positive vote. we can keep our focus on Learning How do I know my precinct number? All these successes are the our children will be the beneficia- Your number is printed on your voter registration card. Or, you can result of the work of our parents and ries. We can look back on a job well search by your name on www.hcvoter.com. Click on “voter registra- community members, employees done for our kids. What else really tion,” and then click on “voter search.” and members of the Humble ISD matters?

Board of Trustees On the Cover Humble ISD Student art, clockwise from upper right: Cat-Hailey Darby, grade 2, Timbers Some homes not served by Humble ISD receive Dave Martin, president this newsletter as a result of postal routes cross- Elementary; Mushroom/ants-Angelica Guiterrez, grade 4, Shadow Forest ing over district lines. To save money, we must Daniel G. Huberty, vice president Elementary; Giraffe-Maria Pineros, grade 3, Timbers Elementary; Bug-Emma Kent, mail to an entire postal carrier route. Keith Lapeze, secretary grade 1, Willow Creek Elementary; Walrus-Andrew Canales, grade 3, Shadow Forest Humble Independent School District does not discrimi- Dr. Bonnie Longnion, parliamentarian Elementary; Metamorphosis-Jessica Dennis, grade 4, Shadow Forest Elementary; nate on the basis of race, religion, color, national origin, Charles Cunningham, member Fishing-Megan Tarkington, grade 2, Greentree Elementary; Mission Fort, Stephen sex or disability in providing education services. Janet Orth (281-641-8000) has been designated to coordinate Brent Engelage, member Chamness, grade 4, Bear Branch Elementary; and center, Tree-Lauren Chachere, compliance with the non-discrimination requirements Robert Scarfo, member grade 5, Willow Creek Elementary. of Title IX and compliance with the non-discrimination requirements of Section 504 of the Rehabilitation Act. Humble Independent School District • www.humble.k12.tx.us Your SCHOOLS May 09 3

Spring 2009 Dates Services for students April 28-May 1...... TAKS: with disabilities gr. 3-10 & exit level May 19...... TAKS: gr. 5 test, gr. 8 retest Humble ISD is respon- May 25...... Memorial Day Holiday sible for identifying, locating and Did you receive a text mes- How do I sign up? June 3...... Last Day of School evaluating all children with dis- sage after Hurricane Ike about The system automatically June 4...... Prof. Growth/Workday abilities who are in need of special July 1...... TAKS: gr. 3, 5 & 8 retests school closures? These were sent established accounts for many education and related services thanks to a new online commu- parents using data on file. To who reside and or located within nication tool, Humble ISD Your see if you have an account, click the school district’s boundaries or Humble ISD School’s Insider. You can be a part the Your Schools Insider icon on attend a private school within the of this network by establishing a the district’s home page (www. 2009-10 district’s boundaries, even if they free account. humble.k12.tx.us) and log in using Calendar your email address. If the system are not district residents. Why should I be a member? recognizes your address but you Children who have a disability or who are suspected of First Semester • Receive notification of emergen- don’t know your password, click 82 School Days the “I can’t log in” button and your having a disability may be referred 7 Professional Growth/Workdays cies that might affect students password will be e-mailed to you. to Humble ISD through one of the Aug. 17-21...... Prof. Growth/Workdays If your email address is not recog- following means: Aug. 24...... Begin First Semester • Stay informed about important nized, you don’t have an account. Sept. 7...... School Holiday events in Humble ISD • For children of district residents, Labor Day You can easily set one up by fol- who are school age (3 to 21), Oct. 12...... Student Holiday • Get a response to questions and lowing the on-screen instructions. please contact the elementary, Prof. Growth/Workday concerns, give your input on middle, or high school that Nov. 25-27...... Thanksgiving Holiday Who can have an account? Dec. 18...... End First Semester where we’re going as a district serves your particular neighbor- Anyone. Indicate if you are a Dec. 21-31...... Winter Holidays hood or location. Jan. 1...... Holiday How does it work? parent or community member and Jan. 4...... Student Holiday Share your contact informa- the type of information you want to • For children of district residents Prof. Growth/Workday tion with us. We send you informa- receive. Be sure to list your chil- who are below school-age (birth tion by e-mail. In emergencies or to dren’s schools in the “School Rela- through 2 years old), please Second Semester announce major events, phone calls tionships” field to get news specifi- 95 School Days contact the Special Education 3 Professional Growth/Workdays and text messages can be sent. cally related to those campuses. Department at 281-641-8326 or Jan. 5...... Begin Second Semester one of the following ECI Agen- Jan. 18...... MLK Holiday cies: Feb. 15...... Student Holiday Remaining early release dates ECI Keep Pace Program at 281- Prof. Growth/Workday 397-4000 (all areas excluding March 15-19...... Spring Vacation Elementary Schools – May 14, June 3: zip code 77044) April 2...... Good Friday Holiday Pre-K morning–10 a.m. ECI Bay Area Program at 281- April 5...... Student Holiday Pre-K afternoon & Grades K-5–11:30 a.m. Prof. Growth/Workday 838-4477 (all areas with zip May 31...... Memorial Day Holiday code area 77044) June 2...... Last Day of School Middle Schools – June 2-3: Noon. June 3...... Prof. Growth/Workday • For children who are out of High Schools TOTAL FOR SCHOOL YEAR district but attending a private 177 Days of Instruction Times will be announced by the schools. school within the district, please 10 Professional Growth/Workdays AHS, HHS, KHS and KPHS: June 1-3 contact the Special Education Quest High School: June 2-3 Office at 281-641-8410.

If you are unsure about which school would serve your neighborhood or location, or if you are mak- This Graduation Dates for 2009 ing the referral during the summer, Publication Atascocita High School...... 1:30 p.m. Saturday, May 30, 2009, Reliant Stadium please call the Special Education won top honors in Humble High School...... 10 a.m. Saturday, May 30, 2009, Reliant Stadium Department at 281-641-8326. the state! All referrals are confidential Kingwood High School...... 5 p.m. Saturday, May 30, 2009, Reliant Stadium and the parent, legal guardian, or Texas Schools Public Relations Association Quest High School...... 7 p.m. Wednesday, June 3, 2009, Humble Civic Center surrogate parent has the right to Gold Star Award refuse services.

Humble Independent School District • www.humble.k12.tx.us 4 Your SCHOOLS May 09

Get off the couch: How playing outdoors benefits children is students’ first in- pressure and even cancer. Just be depth exposure to the sure to use sunscreen to protect natural world around from dangerous UV rays. them. “I’m surprised Healthy bodies can also lead as the years go by to healthier minds, said Helen Wag- that fewer and fewer ner, Humble ISD Elementary PE kids seem to know facilitator and Elm Grove Elemen- what a national park tary School teacher. The district’s is or where one is,” elementary PE programs are part of she said. She says by the CATCH program, which stands teaching them about for Coordinated Approach to Child Go Play Outside! It’s a RV touring, outdoor sports and Health. PE classes promote activi- common saying for many parents, camping, she can help them find an ties the entire family can get in- especially during school breaks and activity they’ll enjoy later in life. “I volved in, such as hiking or bicycle parental activity, and will only do the summer months. But the Great like to think that I’m teaching them riding in area parks, local sports what they’ve been introduced to. Outdoors has become the great un- how to have vacations for the rest leagues and even the Boy Scouts Parents don’t even have to known for many children, who are of their lives,” she said. and Girl Scouts. “Everything we think big when it comes to outdoor more likely to return to school with Her students’ unfamiliarity do encourages kids to keep moving fun. There are plenty of ways for a high score on their favorite video with the outdoors is hardly unique. and especially outside,” she families to immerse themselves in game than a suntan. That lack of exposure even has its said. the natural world without taking a Carol Wilson is working to own name: Nature-Deficit Dis- There is also much long vacation. “You don’t have to change that. She teaches Outdoor order. The term was coined to be gained from unstruc- go to Yellowstone to have a good Education at Humble High School. by writer Richard Louv in tured play time, Wagner time camping,” Wilson said. “You It’s designed for students who need his 2005 book “Last Child said. She works to help can go to Sam Houston State Park.” a physical education credit for in the Woods.” The book parents realize that such One inexpensive outdoor graduation, but are more interested investigates why children activity teaches life skills activity families may not auto- in recreational activities than com- are increasingly discon- and socialization in a way matically think about doing is bird petitive sports. nected from nature, and the that can’t be replicated in watching. “So many people around Wilson teaches subjects such blame can’t all be placed on a controlled environment. the country don’t see the birds that as camping, snorkeling, outdoor iPods, cell phones and PlaySta- Outdoor activities can even we do around here,” Wilson said. cooking, archery, orienteering, tions. Louv’s interviews with improve science learning, said Despite all the modern dis- marksmanship and fishing. But families, educators, urban planners Riverwood Middle School science tractions from the outside world, most importantly, Wilson hopes and naturalists reveal a number of teacher Steve Winebaugh. Playing there may be signs of hope. “I to instill in her students a love of reasons kids don’t go outside for outside can expose children to real think there’s a trend beginning to the outdoors. “If they’re learning unstructured play time. Parental world lessons they can’t experience happen to encourage them back something that gets them off the fears about dangers like West Nile in the classroom, he said, espe- outside,” Wagner said. She says couch, I’m happy,” she said. virus and human predators, local cially in areas such as biology and one recent event that helped boost In many cases, Wilson’s class green space taken over by develop- geology. The lessons they learn on outside activity was Hurricane Ike. ment and legal and safety concerns their own become part of an experi- “We saw this all over the commu- over childhood pastimes, such as ence that will stay with them. nity that kids were all over outside, building a treehouse, are all cited A key element to coaxing kids and parents were with them, even as reasons for children’s underex- outside is parents, Winebaugh said. just things like doing yard work.” posure to nature. “A lot of kids spend the Obesity rates have risen whole summer in the dramatically over the past 25 years, house. I know my kids and adding more outdoor activity would if I let them,” he to children’s lives can bring health said. He suggests find- benefits. Sunlight exposure pro- ing an activity the child motes the creation of Vitamin D in enjoys and being a part the body, which can help fight bone of it. Winebaugh says diseases, muscle pain, high blood kids are going to model

Humble Independent School District • www.humble.k12.tx.uswww.humble.k12.tx.us Your SCHOOLS May 09 5

Natural places to enjoy Getting out and experienc- Lake Houston Wilderness ing Mother Nature doesn’t have to Park involve a long car trip. There are 22031 Baptist Encampment Rd., plenty of places in our community New Caney to enjoy the outside world, either Phone: (281) 354-6881 for a few hours or a few days. Here http://www.houstontx.gov/parks/ is a sampling of options: lakehoustonpark.html

Jesse H. Jones Park Lake Houston Wilderness & Nature Center Park features 5,000 acres of for- 20634 Kenswick Dr., Humble est, 12 miles of hiking and biking Phone: (281) 446-8588 trails, 8 miles of equestrian trails http://www.hcp4.net/jones/ and camping facilities. Canoe- ing and kayaking are available for Woodland Hills Elementary fourth Jones Park contains over 300 those with their own watercraft. graders enjoyed water testing, fishing acres of forest, along with swamps Camping areas include picnic and more at River Grove Park in and natural and white sand beaches tables, fire rings and grills. Water Kingwood during Camp Writealotta, a along Spring Creek. The park has is centrally located, and a shower week devoted to using camp activities more than 6 miles of paved trails building with restrooms is avail- as writing prompts. open to walkers and bicyclists, able. The park is heavily forested, along with 30 picnic tables, grills, and some beautiful spots can be restrooms and water fountains. found off the beaten path. Wildlife A barbecue pavilion is available is abundant, although bear in mind Sheldon Lake State Park to reserve. People with their own the park is also home to several & Environmental Learning canoes can explore the water, with species of snakes. Visitors wanting Center a reservation. You can find turtle a roof over their heads can re- 15315 Beaumont Hwy. food at the nature center. A four- serve a room at either Lazy Creek day nature camp is held in the sum- Cottage Lodge or Forest Cottage mer for children 5-12 years of age. Lodge for a fee.

Mercer Arboretum Sheldon Lake is open year & Botanic Gardens round to public fishing with the 2306 Aldine Westfield Rd., Humble proper license, with free catch and observe wildlife. The Learning Phone: (281) 443-8731 release “Family Fishing” permitted Center hosts guided nature and http://www.hcp4.net/mercer/ on weekends. The lake is also used birding walks, prairie restoration for boating and is a good place to events and small group programs. Mercer Arboretum & Botanic Gardens is 300 acres of the region’s largest collection of native and cul- IDEAS TO GET KIDS OUTDOORS tivated plants. It is also home to a • Swimming lessons or group neighborhood or park number of animals. The Arboretum sports teams • Start a rock, leaf or bug collection focuses on education, with several • Family bicycle trips • Keep a nature journal horticulture and Master Gardener • Go camping-You can even set up • Go berry or pecan picking, or programs for adults, and a variety a tent in your own backyard! visit a local orchard or farm of programs and classes for chil- • Boy/Girl Scouts where you can pick your own dren. Internships are also available • Hiking produce for high school and college stu- • Astronomy • Have a picnic dents. Amenities include a pavil- • Flying a kite • Look for shapes in clouds Students wrote about experiences like ion, picnic areas, a canoe launch on • Get a book on birds or plants • Watch fireflies making pinecone bird feeders during Cypress Creek, trails, a tea house, in the area and see how many Camp Writealotta. • Fishing playground and visitor center. you can find in your backyard, • Gardening

Humble Independent School District • www.humble.k12.tx.us 6 Your SCHOOLSYour SCHOOLS May 09 May 09

Five teachers earn National Certification

Anne Blake Ana Mascolo Cindy Cornwell Emily Garcia Kimberly Mouser Maplebrook Elementary Elm Grove Elementary Instructional Support Center Humble Elementary Timberwood Middle School

Five Humble ISD teachers Resources, said. advanced teaching knowledge, are performance-based and six of have passed all requirements to be- “This is a great achievement skills and practices. Certification is which are written tests addressing come the first in the district to earn for them personally, but it also is of achieved through a performance- content areas and pedagogy.” National Board Certification. This tremendous benefit to their students based assessment that typically Houston A+ Challenge pro- professional designation is held by and colleagues. They are role mod- takes one to three years to com- vided the teachers with coaches less than one percent of teachers in els whose expertise in the class- plete. and mentors who supported their Texas. room positively impacts everyone There are many requirements learning, critiqued their classroom Humble ISD values National around them.” to meet. skills, and guided them through the Board Certification. The district National Board Certification “They were required to com- certification process. Houston A+ pays a $5,000 stipend to educators is a voluntary assessment program plete an extensive portfolio con- Challenge (www.houstonaplus.org) with the certification status. designed to develop, recognize taining video recordings, student is an independent, public-private “These teachers have spent and retain accomplished teachers. work, detailed analysis and reflec- organization dedicated to excel- hundreds of hours in preparation While state licensing systems set tive commentary of their lessons,” lence in public schools. and study for the goal they have basic requirements to teach in each Griffin said. Additional Humble ISD achieved,” Janet Griffin, Humble state, these accomplished teachers “It required candidates to teachers are working toward Na- ISD Executive Director for Human have successfully demonstrated pass 10 components, four of which tional Board Certification.

Words of wisdom on teaching... from Humble ISD’s Teaching Stars “I want lessons that really bring out my math manipulatives. stay in the students’ minds. For ex- We play and explore and do some ample, with fractions, our students inquiry. It takes the pressure off learn about them in the second and and reminds them ‘I’m a learner. I third grades very concretely: You don’t have to master it first thing.’ take a pie and you break it in half. It’s important to remember that When they get to us in the fourth students are learners and need to grade, all of sudden they have to explore at the concrete level.” add and subtract and know about Ana Mascolo the common denominator. It’s all Elm Grove Elementary Pictured with Camilo Rincon and Lennon Cancino, Ms. Mascolo wore a sequined pencil and paper work. I like to first fourth grade vest because she was encouraging students to “bedazzle” their writing with techniques like the use of similes.

Humble Independent School District • www.humble.k12.tx.us Your SCHOOLS MayMay 0909 7

Words of wisdom on teaching... from Humble ISD’s Teaching Stars “It’s important to think long-term: Where is the student “It’s important for students to justify their thinking, if it’s reason- going to be after high school? able or not. Sometimes students will say, ‘I chose “A” because “A” is the I work with students with right answer.’ That’s not what I’m looking for. I want them to be deeper various disabilities. Because thinkers. It makes them better learners.” of the unique challenges they Emily Garcia, Humble Elementary, fifth grade face, planning for their future needs to begin at age 3. It’s about educating parents on what resources are available and what resources we need to be seeking. When you set high expectations, it becomes a vision that everyone – parents, teachers and students – can work toward.” Cindy Cornwell Ms. Cornwell works with Willow Instructional Specialist Creek first grader (serves multiple schools) Jacob Johnson on measuring.

“You can use high-expectation strategies for all students and they Ms. Garcia enjoys watching student Ronalette Obakrairur explain and justify her will rise to meet your expectations. There are strategies -- like Socratic idea. seminars, levels of questions and creative assignments -- that work with all levels of students.” Kim Mouser “Every day is new! Every day I get a chance to take the kids Timberwood Middle a little farther in their learning than they were the day before.” 7th Grade Reading Anne Blake, Maplebrook Elementary, fourth grade English Language Arts Pre-AP and AVID

Ms. Mouser helps student Chance Carpenter with an assignment.

Ms. Blake discusses writing with fourth grader Kayla Harpring.

Humble Independent School District • www.humble.k12.tx.us 8 Your SCHOOLS May 09

Turner Stadium to host New immunization Jr. Olympics in 2012 requirements Humble ISD’S Turner Sta- track, the field house, press boxes Immunization requirements For 7th grade students, dium will receive national attention and restroom and concession facili- are changing for next year. The new the changes are: when one of the nation’s largest ties. “It was long overdue to begin requirements affect students entering • Tetanus, Diphtheria and acellu- youth sporting events heads to the with, so the timing on the renova- kindergarten or the seventh grade. lar pertussis-containing vaccine Houston area. The Bayou City was tions could not have been better,” Parents are advised to have their (Tdap): All students entering recently chosen to host the 2012 Kite said. Renovations are sched- children’s shot records evaluated seventh grade must have one dose Amateur Athletics Union Junior uled for completion in June 2010. by a medical provider as soon as of Tdap vaccine. Students in sev- Olympics. Turner Stadium will Not many Houston area possible. Students must be current enth grade must have a booster host the Track and Field events, stadiums have the track space, on immunizations to begin school dose of Tdap only if it has been which include the largest number of spectator capacity or spare land August 24. five years since their last doses of participants. to host such a large event, Janice “Most students, especially a tetanus-containing vaccine. Stu- Junior Olympics is the larg- Schmees, Houston Sports Authority those entering seventh grade, will dents in grades 8-12 must have est national, multi-sports event Executive Director, said. Humble’s need at least one immunization,” a booster dose of Tdap if it has conducted annually for youth. The proximity to Bush Intercontinental Susan Luethold, Humble ISD Health been 10 years since their previ- two-week event draws over 15,000 Airport and its nearby hotels pro- Services Coordinator, said. “Fami- ous dose of a tetanus-containing athletes taking part in over 20 dif- vided another incentive to choose lies who wait until August will face vaccine. Td is acceptable in lieu ferent sports. The event is sched- Turner Stadium. long lines since these requirements of Tdap if a contraindication to uled for July 25- August 4, 2012. Junior Olympics is expected affect all child care, public and pri- pertussis exists. Troy Kite, Co-Director of to draw around 30,000 spectators, vate school students in the state.” • Meningococcal Vaccine: All Humble ISD’s Athletic Department, bringing an estimated $40 million The Texas Department of students entering seventh grade said they received a call from the to the Houston area. “I think you’ll State Health Services announced the will be required to have one dose Houston Sports Authority about see a huge economic impact on the changes to more closely adhere to of meningococcal vaccine. Turner Stadium as a possible site community,” Kite said. The com- recommendations of the Centers for • Varicella Vaccine: All students for the Track and Field events. munity approved the funds for the Disease Control and Prevention and entering seventh will be required AAU officials visited the stadium stadium expansion, and Kite sees the Advisory Committee on Immuni- to have two doses of varicella twice before announcing Humble this as a way to give back. Humble zation Practices. had been chosen for the event. ISD will also benefit financially vaccine. Parent validated history Kite said the renovations of from the use of the stadium, and of previous chicken pox illness For kindergarten students, may substitute for vaccination. Turner Stadium that will begin in Kite is looking for similar events the changes are: August of 2009 were a major factor to bring to Turner Stadium, in the Vaccines are available from in being chosen. Stadium improve- hopes of bringing more revenue to • Hepatitis A Vaccine: All stu- doctors’ offices, Harris County Pub- ments were part of the school bond both the community and the dis- dents entering kindergarten will lic Health and Environmental Ser- package approved by voters in trict. You can’t put a dollar amount be required to have two doses of vices–281-446-4222, or the Houston 2008. “It will be a home makeover on the publicity coming from host- Hepatitis A vaccine. Department of Health and Human of Turner Stadium,” said Kite. The ing an event of this size, Kite said, • Measles, Mumps, Rubella Services–713-794-9320. stadium was built 40 years ago and and he’s excited the 2012 Junior (MMR) Vaccine: All students Harris County’s Immunization hasn’t been renovated in over a Olympics will give Humble an op- entering kindergarten will be Outreach Mobile Team will provide decade. Improvements include the portunity to show itself off. required to have two doses of free immunizations the last Tues- measles, mumps and rubella day of the month in May, June and August from 10 a.m.-2 p.m. at Park Turner (MMR) vaccine. Stadium, • Varicella Vaccine: All students Lakes Elementary, 4400 Wilson which seats entering kindergarten will be Road. Bring shot records. Sign in by 9,500, required to have two doses of 1:45 p.m. to receive immunization will host varicella vaccine. Parent validated services. For more information, call the Junior history of previous chicken pox 713-439-6075. Olympics in illness may substitute for vaccina- For information on childhood three years. tion. immunizations, visit www.immunizeTexas.org. PBK Architects Humble Independent School District • www.humble.k12.tx.us Your SCHOOLS May 09 9

School bus ads make national headlines Less than six months after for a tax increase on the mainte- gust, Sconzo thanked Steep Creek Humble ISD partnered with Steep nance and operations side, but we Media for coming forward with a Creek Media to begin selling ad also felt there was a chance to cre- solution which has the potential of space on school buses, the two ate additional opportunities to bring bringing up to $1 million into the have made national headlines. in revenue without adding a penny district annually. School bus advertising and Steep of expense, thus our partnership Although they have not Creek Media were recently featured with Steep Creek Media.” reached the $1 million mark yet, as the cover story in BrandWeek Larry and Cynthia Shiflet, Sconzo says any revenue the district Magazine, as well as in three sister owners of Steep Creek Media, receives from advertising is revenue publications: AdWeek, MediaWeek already had a van advertising they otherwise would not have. and The Hollywood Reporter. campaign in place with the Village “We targeted $1 million the level of funds being raised for The district and innovative media Learning and Achievement Center for the first year, but a hurricane the children.” company also recently reached a and approached the district about and seriously down economy has Former Humble ISD Trustee $250,000 milestone. Humble ISD thinking outside-the-box in regard hurt us,” said Sconzo. “However, Lynn Fields has called the business is the first school district in the to the district’s financial crisis. The estimating that we will receive partners “local heroes” for their Houston-Metro area to take advan- board put the project up for bid and $250,000 is significant. That repre- efforts to funnel dollars into the tage of this type of advertising. Steep Creek Media was awarded sents five to six teaching positions schools. “It is a wonderful way for Last May, Humble ISD was the contract. in our operating budget.” area businesses to have a ‘moving facing a $17 million budget deficit Steep Creek has been hired by Parents are also glad to see advertisement’ while at the same for the 2008-09 school year. At the three additional school districts in the project garner success. “I feel time, helping schools. I hope all of time, the district had already cut the Houston area, and are in nego- the school bus ad program is such us who see one of these school bus the budget by $8.8 million, and tiations with several more. an innovative way to raise money ads thank our local businesses for was considering cutting or reduc- Signs are placed on the buses for Humble ISD,” said Marilyn their help in supporting education,” ing a number of programs, includ- according to state law and range in Mann, Kingwood Middle PTA said Fields. ing middle school and sophomore price from $150 to $350 per month. president and Humble ISD Council “One thing I am proud of is sports, music and fine arts pro- Steep Creek Media sends 60 per- of PTAs student service chair- this board is not going to sit idly grams, school nurses and librarians. cent of its gross revenue back to the woman. “We are recognized by the by and wait for the state to hand us “As we worked through our school districts. state of Texas as being a leader in additional dollars. We are going to 2008 budget process, we realized “We do it all: sell the signs, finding creative ways to help with continue to be proactive with our the need for additional sources install them and collect the fees. the school finance situation. We are approach to the state legislators, of income,” said Dave Martin, All the district does is cash the fortunate to have such caring and as well as continue our work with Humble ISD Board of Trustees checks,” Shiflet added. giving community partners such as folks like Steep Creek Media,” president. “We asked our citizens At a press conference last Au- Steep Creek Media to help boost Martin said.

Be Our Hero and Get On The Bus! Advertise on Humble ISD Buses • As low as $250 a month We gratefully thank and acknowledge these heroes of Humble ISD... Affordable Smiles Exit Realty Kelsey-Seybold North Houston Bank Alpha & Omega AC/Heat Friendswood Development Kids Playce Northeast Houston Sleep Ampco System Parking GEICO Insurance Kingwood Medical Center Center Best Investment Goodson Honda Lane 4 Swim & Run Red Door Realty Cale’s Car Wash Humble Cardiology Center Monterrey’s Little Mexico Re/Max Associates Northeast Choice Homes Huntington Learning Center Memorial Hermann Northeast Rhonda Bollman, DDS Dr. John Parks Trowbridge Joiner Partnership Modern Home Renovation Schuff Steel Scott Tate Photography EXCLUSIVELY OFFERED BY Stan Williams Construction CONTACT US TODAY! Super Park 281-962-4390 or Texas Air National Guard [email protected] Vision Source - Kingwood And Many More!! Humble Independent School District • www.humble.k12.tx.us 10 Your SCHOOLS May 09

Woodcreek Middle under construction in Summerwood Construction is underway on the district’s eighth middle school, being built in Summerwood at 14600 Woodson Park Drive. Woodcreek Middle School is scheduled to open in August 2010. It will address student enrollment growth in the southern portion of the district where there are new homes and neighborhoods. The 180,000 square foot facility will include classrooms, labs, an amphitheater, a library media center, a com- petition gym and half-size practice gym, music halls and more. Exterior accents will include dark bronze doors, window frames, trim and walkway canopies, and forest green metal barrel vaulted roofs at major entrances. Funding is provided by bonds approved by voters in 2005. Construction of a 35,000 square foot YMCA Fitness Facility adjacent to the school is planned for the future.

Participating in the groundbreaking were (from left) David Rowe, Durotech General Contractors CEO; Carl Joiner, Joiner Partnership President; members of the Humble ISD Board of Trustees, President Dave Martin, Brent M. Engelage, Secretary Keith Lapeze, Robert Scarfo, Par- liamentarian Dr. Bonnie Longnion, Vice President Daniel G. Huberty and Charles Cunningham; and Humble ISD Superintendent Dr. Guy Sconzo. 1HZ6F1HZ6FKRROV$KHDGKRROV$KHDG Lakeshore Elementary 0 LO OV D\ %UD &KDQ 1RUWKSDUN'ULYH Q FK DGRZ ' VK U opens in Fall 2009 RN R 7 %U UH H/DQH + Excitement is building for Lakeshore Elementary, which will open LJK9 D /RRS OOH\

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Humble Independent School District • www.humble.k12.tx.us Your SCHOOLS May 09 11

Summer Creek High School opens in Au- gust with grades 9-10. A new grade level will be added each year, with the first class graduating in 2012. The mascot is the Bulldogs and the colors are maroon and gold. These photos show spring Summer Creek High School construction. Principal Trey Kraemer

Workers are finishing columns in what will be the library.

From left, Bookkeeper Cassandra Thorn, Principal’s Secretary Brenda Prothe, Associate Principal Julie Heffner and Lead Counselor Danell Kite take a stroll down the “main street” hallway.

A covered walkway along the back of the school just outside the cafeteria provides rain protection from the parking lot.

Associate Principal Julie Heffner and Lead Counselor Danell Kite check out the science labs.

Humble Independent School District • www.humble.k12.tx.us Your Schools is published by the Humble Independent School District. Your SCHOOLS Non-ProfitMay 09Org Humble ISD U.S. Postage Humble ISD Board of Trustees P.O. Box 2000 Dave Martin, president PAID Humble, TX 77347-2000 Daniel G. Huberty, vice president Humble, TX 77338 Keith Lapeze, secretary Dr. Bonnie Longnion, parliamentarian Permit No. 262 Charles Cunningham, member Brent M. Engelage, member Robert Scarfo, member

Superintendent Dr. Guy Sconzo

Public Information Office Karen Collier, Executive Director Jamie Mount, Assistant Director Robin McAdams, Media Coordinator Charlotte Hoya, Webmaster Sue Vernon, Office Professional Your Schools • Humble Independent School District • www.humble.k12.tx.us

Community support for our kids Local businesses and com- Thank You! munity members contributed a total of $224,950 for 69 animal projects at the 2009 Humble ISD Livestock Auction. Sales help students to obtain money for college and post-secondary training, and to continue with their animal projects. Grand Champion Results Student Category Sale Price Buyer Shelby Flick, Humble HS...... Steer...... $10,500...... Robbins Auto Mall and Humble Community Bank Alexis Marion, Kingwood Park HS...... Swine...... $6,250...... Memorial Hermann Northeast Advisory Board Justin Alford, Atascocita HS...... Lamb...... $2,500...... Humble Machine Works and RB Machine Works Cyrus Cunningham, Kingwood Park HS...... Goat...... $3,500...... Rosewood Memorial Park Paige Ebert, Kingwood Park HS...... Turkey...... $2,500...... Goolsby Testing Haley Staggs, Kingwood MS...... Broiler...... $3,250...... Crawford Young Drywall Brianna Bosworth, Atascocita HS...... Rabbit...... $2,750...... Humble ISD School Board and Administrators

umble I.S.D. We focus on learning!

✓ Seven schools rated Exemplary and 12 schools ✓ Parents have internet access to their rated Recognized. students’ grades. ✓ Named among the “Best 100 Communities for ✓ Our students enjoy safe, attractive Music Education” by the American Music Con- campuses with access to state-of-the-art ference. technology. Older high schools (Kingwood ✓ Mean SAT and mean ACT scores exceed state and High and Humble High) have received national averages. $70 million in upgrades and additions. ✓ Strong community support – ✓ We are building for the future – Summer 400,000 volunteer hours served at schools. Creek High and Lakeshore Elementary ✓ Humble ISD Education Foundation has awarded will open in 2009, Woodcreek Middle more than $2.7 million in grants to schools since will open in 2010. 2000. Humble Independent School District •• www.humble.k12.tx.uswww.humble.k12.tx.us