2 Your SCHOOLS Spring 07 Superintendent’s View Congratulations to all our • Shawn Jennings, Atascocita High teacher, was recognized by the National Merit Honorees National Junior Classical League as a Summa Cum Laude Junior Classical League Sponsor. • The Kingwood High Chorale, directed by Keith Dixon, was a top choir at the Music Educa- tors Association’s Convention. • The Kingwood Middle Future City Team, advised by John Baron and Tak Chai Tamayo, Ph.D., finished seventh in the nation in the engineering design contest. by Dr. Guy Sconzo Administaff: We Thank You As we near the end of the seniors Rodrigo school year, I can’t help but look Administaff made a $300,000 Pena and Mark Thompson are back with pride at the accomplish- contribution to the Humble ISD Quest High School senior National Merit Finalists. ments of our students and staff. Education Foundation for an astro- Rachel Gradney was named an These accomplishments wouldn’t nomical observatory. This will be honoree in the National be possible without the support one of only a handful of observato- Achievement Scholarship parents and community members ries in Texas on an elementary school Program. show for our students. Please join campus. The facility will be at Jack me in sharing the pride: Fields Elementary and available to all • Over half of our schools are Humble ISD students. The observa- “exemplary” or “recognized” tory will provide opportunities for Humble High School seniors campuses under the Texas ac- children to be exposed to scientific Caitlin Crawford and Richard countability system. concepts and technology that they Witkov are National Merit • Humble ISD schools earned 83 might otherwise not encounter. Commended Students. Gold Performance Acknowledg- The observatory is the result of ments for high performance from the Humble ISD Education the Texas Education Agency. Foundation’s “Challenge your • Since 1999, the Humble ISD Dreams” fundraising campaign. Humble High School Education Foundation has awarded Administaff’s contribution, raised seniors Michelle more than $1.5 million in grants to through corporate dollars and an Cisneros, Keren Ba Humble ISD schools. Every school employee fundraising campaign, has and Rodrigo Pena in the district can boast of grants made it possible to move forward were named from the Foundation. with construction. The project’s honorees in the • Stephanie Fisher was a semifinal- groundbreaking is expected to take National Hispanic ist in the State Teacher of the Year place early this summer. The facility Recognition contest. She teaches at Woodland will feature three powerful telescopes Program. Hills Elementary. and an interactive classroom.

Our Mission Board of Trustees On the Cover Humble ISD The mission of the Humble Independent Some homes not served by Humble ISD receive Dr. Bonnie Longnion, president Fifth-graders at 19 of Humble ISD’s this newsletter as a result of postal routes cross- School District is to provide a safe, student- Mike Sullivan, vice president elementary schools participated in a six- ing over district lines. To save money, we must centered, supportive environment that utilizes week immersion into early American mail to an entire postal carrier route. all resources for the education of our children. Jim Eggers, secretary history, exploring the reasons why the Essential to this process is a district, parent, Dave Martin, parliamentarian Humble Independent School District does not discrimi- American Revolution took place. The and community partnership that fosters mutual Lynn Fields, member nate on the basis of race, religion, color, national origin, respect and willingness to work together. students also gained a better understanding sex or disability in providing education services. Janet Our students will develop personal dignity, Daniel G. Huberty, member of the U.S. Constitution and the Bill of Orth (281-641-8000) has been designated to coordinate Keith Lapeze, member compliance with the non-discrimination requirements of self-worth, and skills to prepare them to meet Rights. Title IX and compliance with the non-discrimination re- the challenges of the future. quirements of Section 504 of the Rehabilitation Act.

Your SCHOOLS Spring 07 3 Congratulations to all our National Merit Honorees

Kingwood High School seniors Matthew Abbott, Brent Bailey, Sarah Boice, Lisa Hasenberg, Tyler Smoot and (not pictured) Sarah Townsend senior girls (top row, from left) Alicia Bergeron, are National Merit Finalists. Rebecca Blick, Catherine Castillo, Katherine Cipriani, Delphine Collee, Deborah Cunningham, Jessica Dabis, (middle row, from left) Karyn Hall, Alexis Keister, Kelsey Lee (front row, from left) Laura Philipp, Lauren Ragsdale, Robin Richards, Kelley Webb and Lisa Zampello and (not pictured) Zhaleh Amini, Sarah Coyle, Emily Daddesio and Emily Gallup are National Merit Commended Students.

Kingwood High School senior boys (top row, from left) Alejandro Ayala, David Bianchi, Nicholas Bisbee, Will Briggs, Scott Browning, Dan Ciliske, Matthew Garfield, (middle row, from left) Jonathan Gean, Brandon Gentry, Michael Gonzales, Matthew Lundberg and (front row, Kingwood High School seniors Matthew Abbott, Alejandro Ayala, from left) Daniel Marts, Walt Scherr, David Sommer, Zach Stern, Jeff Catherine Carey, Catherine Castillo, Michael Gonzales, Paul Gonzales Vitarius and (not pictured), Francis Reila Israel and Mark Meixell are and Elizabeth McConnell were named honorees in the National Hispanic National Merit Commended Students. Recognition Program.

4 Your SCHOOLS Spring 07

Humble ISD School Board election to be May 12 Calendar Two positions on the seven-member Humble ISD Board of Trustees are up for election this year. All positions are for a three-year term. Board 2007 Graduation members are volunteers who serve without pay. On the ballot will be: Spring Semester Trustee Position No. 5 – Jim Eggers Dates 95 School Days Trustee Position No. 4 – Mike Sullivan 3 Professional Growth/Workdays Charles Cunningham • Quest High School, 7 p.m. on April 6 ...... School Holiday-Good Friday When and where to vote April 16-20 ...... TAKS/TAAS, Exit Level Early Voting: Early voting is open April 30 through May 4 from 8 Thursday, TAKS/SDAA, gr. 3-10 a.m. to 5 p.m. and May 7 - 8 from 7 a.m. to 7 p.m. Early voting for all May 24, 2007, at Humble April 23 ...... Student Holiday precincts is available at the Humble City Hall/Council Chamber, 114 W. Civic Center Prof. Growth/Workday Higgins St. in Humble; Humble ISD Administration Building, 20200 May 15 ...... TAKS Math, gr. 5 retakes • Kingwood High School, 8:30 May 25 ...... End Second Semester Eastway Village Drive in Humble; and at the Humble ISD Instructional May 28 ...... Memorial Day Holiday Support Center, 4810 Magnolia Cove Drive in Kingwood. p.m. on Friday, May 25, 2007, May 29 ...... Prof. Growth/Workday Election Day: Polls will be open 7 a.m. to 7 p.m. on Saturday, May 12. Pre- at Reliant Stadium (Doors open June 26-27 ...... TAKS Math, gr. 5 retakes cincts and voting locations are shown below: at 7:30 p.m.) Precinct 108, 334, 598, 599, 776 – Humble City Hall, 114 W. Higgins St., Next Year Humble • Humble High School, 12:30 Precinct 45, 83, 363, 380, 742, 799, 840, 841, 847 – North Belt Elementary, 2007-08 First Semester p.m. on Saturday, May 26, 8105 North Belt Dr., Humble 2007, at Reliant Stadium 80 School Days Precinct 351, 388, 658, 659, 674 – Oaks Elementary, 5858 Upper Lake Dr., 7 Professional Growth/Workdays (Doors open at 11:30 a.m.) Humble August 20-24 ...... Prof. Growth/Workdays Precinct 199, 469 – Foster Elementary, 1800 Trailwood Village Dr., Kingwood August 27 ...... Begin First Semester Precinct 340, 357, 590, 635, 636, 758 – Kingwood Middle School, 2407 Pine September 3 .. School Holiday - Labor Day Terrace, Kingwood October 8 ...... Student Holiday Precinct 459, 563, 612, 670, 760 – Creekwood Middle School, 3603 Lake Services for students Prof. Growth/Workday Parkway, Kingwood with disabilities October 16-19 ...... Exit level TAKS How do I know my precinct number? November 21-23 ...... School Holiday Humble ISD is responsible for Thanksgiving Your number is printed on your voter registration card. Or, you can identifying, locating and evaluating all December 21 ...... End First Semester search by your name on the Harris County Tax Office website at children with disabilities who are in December 24-Jan. 4 ...... Winter holidays www.tax.co.harris.tx.us/voter/voter.asp need of special education and related January 7 ...... Student Holiday Prof. Growth/Workday services who live within the school district’s boundaries. Children who 2007-08 Second Semester Two-story building to open at HHS have a disability, or are suspected of 97 School Days having a disability, may be referred to 3 Professional Growth/Workdays There is good news ahead for Humble High school students and Humble ISD. staff! Construction issues should pose fewer challenges in the 2007-2008 For children who are school age January 8 ...... Begin Second Semester (ages 3-21), contact the elementary, January 21 ...... MLK Holiday school year. Phase I of the $37 million extreme school makeover will be middle or high school that serves your February 19-22 ...... TAKS/SDAA Writing/LA completed by the time school opens. Students will enjoy classes in a neighborhood. For children from birth grades 4, 7, 10 and Exit Level new, two-story building designed around four houses. through age 2, call the Humble ISD TAKS/SDAA Reading, grade 9 Each house includes classrooms, administrative offices and flexible special education department at 281- February 25 ...... Student Holiday spaces outside classrooms for group projects and independent study. Prof. Growth/Workday 641-8326 or Early Childhood Inter- March 17-21 ...... Spring Vacation There also will be new science labs and two new amphitheaters. New vention Keep Pace Program at 281- April 8 ...... TAKS Math testing, grade 5 facilities for special education, dance, ROTC and gymnastics also will be 397-4000 (all areas except zip code April 22-25 ...... TAKS/TAAS, Exit Level opened. 77044) or Early Childhood Interven- TAKS/SDAA, grades 3-10 For students, the new facilities mean classes will be closer. This tion Bay Area Program at 281-838- April 28 ...... Student Holiday year, students traveled between the main campus and the 9th-10th grade 4477 (zip code 77044). Prof. Growth/Workday If you are unsure about which May 13 ...... TAKS Math, grade 5 retakes campus. “The major challenge we’ve had this year has been the long schools serve your neighborhood or May 26 ...... Memorial Day Holiday walks between classes,” Associate Principal James Paschall said. “It’s location, or if you are making the June 3 ...... End Second Semester going to be so much better next year.” referral during the summer, call the June 4 ...... Professional Growth/Workday Phase II of the makeover will occur during the 2007-2008 school July 1-2 ...... TAKS Math grade 5 retakes special education department at 281- year, affecting the Annex, art, black box theater, drama and career and 641-8326. All referrals are confidential TOTAL FOR SCHOOL YEAR technology classes. While the remodeling poses challenges, the results and the parent, legal guardian or 177 Student School Days will last for decades. “I think the community is really going to be pleased surrogate parent has the right to refuse 10 Professional Growth/Workdays when they see the new facilities,” Paschall said. services. Your SCHOOLS Spring 07 5

A The jar reflects light hitting Tips for test week its surface. B The water absorbs light Parents should try to avoid Keep the test in perspective. hitting its surface. unnecessary conflicts with children It may be an important test, but it is C The jar scatters light passing during testing periods. A positive still only one test. through it. home environment helps students Some sample test questions D The water bends light focus on academics. follow: passing through it. If students feel anxious about an upcoming test, they should do 1. Simplify the polynomial below. something pleasant, like take a –3x (7x – 4) + 6x – (13 – 24x2) 3. A student holds a note behind a walk or play a family game, to take jar of water. Which of the their mind away from their worries. F 3x2 + 18x – 13 following best explains why the Stick to familiar activities. G –24x2 – 15x – 17 part of the note card seen Routines provide comfort. H –24x2 + 10x – 17 through the jar looks different Students should get a good J 3x2 + 18x + 13 from the rest of the note card? night’s rest before the test and in the days leading up to the test. 2. The Nullification Crisis con- Students should eat a nutri- cerned South Carolina’s dissatis- tious breakfast on the morning of faction with federal policy on: TAKS Dates to Know in April the test. Students should arrive early F transportation Students in this grade take TAKS on these dates to school on the day of a big test. G tariffs They will feel more relaxed if they H banking Grade 3 ...... Tuesday, April 17 – math have time to settle into the school J immigration day. Grade 4 ...... Tuesday, April 17 - math

...... Wednesday, April 18 - reading

5 Science 5 3. (D) Grade Grade (D) 3.

Social Studies Social Grade 8 8 Grade 2. (G) (G) 2. Grade 5 ...... Tuesday, April 3 - math

level Math level 1. (F) Exit Exit (F) 1. ANSWERS: ...... Thursday, April 19 – science Grade 6 ...... Tuesday, April 17 - math ...... Wednesday, April 18 – reading Useful district phone numbers Grade 7 ...... Tuesday, April 17 – math ...... Wednesday, April 18 - reading If you have questions about your Grade 8 ...... Tuesday, April 17 - math child’s progress in school, contact your ...... Wednesday, April 18 – reading child’s teacher or counselor. However, if ...... Thursday, April 19 - science you need other information, the following ...... Friday, April 20 – social studies list may be helpful: Grade 9 ...... Thursday, April 19 - math District Main Line ...... 281-641-1000 Grade 10 ...... Tuesday, April 17 - math Public Information ...... 281-641-8200 ...... Thursday, April 19 – science Superintendent...... 281-641-8001 ...... Friday, April 20 – social studies Deputy Superintendent ...... 281-641-8110 Exit Level ...... Wednesday, April 18 – math Assistant Superintendents ...... 281-641-8110 ...... Thursday, April 19 - science Athletics ...... 281-641-8130 ...... Friday, April 20 – social studies Community Development ...... 281-641-8140 (Students have their first opportunity to pass Exit Level tests in Human Resources ...... 281-641-8170 Grade 11.) Police weekdays, 7 a.m. to 4:30 p.m...... 281-641-7900 These dates affect the vast majority of students. Students may test after hours patrol ...... 281-541-3555 on additional dates for a variety of reasons, including special education, Tax Office ...... 281-641-8190 needing a specialized test, making up a missed test, re-testing to pass a Transportation ...... 281-641-8720 test or taking a field test.

6 Your SCHOOLS Spring 07 Sconzo chosen as nominee for National Superintendent of the Year

might be expected of any superin- tendent,” Dr. Longnion said. “He is Humble ISD Superintendent at his desk every morning at 6 a.m. Dr. Guy Sconzo was chosen as the sending out communications to the state’s nominee for 2007 National board, community, and employees. Superintendent of the Year. He was He responds to every email that he selected based upon leadership for receives. He makes multiple visits learning, communication, profes- to each school. He knows almost sionalism and community involve- every employee by their name, and ment. The Texas Association of he addresses them by their name.” School Administrators conducts the Dr. Sconzo has been Humble state-wide selection process. ISD superintendent since 2001 and As a state nominee, Dr. has more than 30 years of experi- Sconzo was honored at the Ameri- ence in education. During his can Association of School Adminis- tenure with Humble ISD, voters trators’ National Conference on have approved $572 million in Education. An Oregon superinten- school facility bonds and the dent was named the national district has opened four new winner. The program is co-spon- elementary schools and a new high sored by the American Association school. Humble ISD has grown by of School Administrators and more than 6,000 students. Contin- ARAMARK. ued growth and additional schools Dr. Bonnie Longnion, presi- are planned for the future. dent of the Humble ISD Board of Dr. Sconzo’s local commu- Dr. Sconzo is frequently seen at schools. At North Belt Elementary School, he was Trustees, said Dr. Sconzo is well nity involvement has included warmly greeted by Wildcat Ambassadors (from left) DeZhanae Johnson, Tracie deserving of the recognition. serving as Humble Area Chamber Federwisch, Cree Hammond, Darius Reed, DJ Dibble and Bryant Alvarez. “He goes far beyond what of Commerce Board Chairman,

Flaming Arrow District of the Boy who strive every day to help Scouts of America Chairman and students learn and grow, and for the Northeast Medical Center Hospital parents and community members Board Member. He also is a past who strongly support education.” Students are member of the Lake Houston Before coming to Humble eager to talk to Dr. Sconzo during Family YMCA Advisory Board. ISD, Dr. Sconzo served as interim his campus visits. As an effective communica- superintendent of Oklahoma City North Belt tor, Dr. Sconzo was one of four Public Schools. He also has been Elementary superintendents in the state chosen an associate superintendent, middle School first to testify in a landmark school school principal and English grader Jaylon finance case. teacher. He earned a bachelor’s Sample enjoyed “I am deeply honored and degree from Wagner College, a reading for the humbled to be the state nominee,” master’s degree from New York superintendent. Dr. Sconzo said. “This award University and a Ph.D. from Ohio reflects on everyone. My work State University. He and his wife, would be meaningless if it weren’t Diane, have two grown children, for the teachers and staff members Michael and Jennifer.

Your SCHOOLS Spring 07 7 Sixty years of Humble ISD tradition For six care of an animal.” being in the program are that they “What decades, the He added that the program’s learn leadership and compassion this is sup- community success over the years can be while building friendships that will posed to be has come attributed to committed teachers last forever,” Hamilton said. “More all about is together to and community support, including important than the financial benefit to teach support buyers at the livestock auction, of making the livestock sale is the kids respon- youth some of whom have participated for ability to learn about responsibility sibility and during the annual Humble ISD more than 20 years. by caring for an animal.” of course, to Livestock Show. Now in its 60th Local businesses and commu- This year’s Humble ISD have fun at it. Animals are totally year, the program is still attracting nity members contributed a com- Livestock Show was dedicated to dependent on the person raising students whose parents and grand- bined total of $201,950 at the 2007 them and they need to be fed parents participated as youngsters. livestock auction. Their support consistently,” Billy Hornback Why do families continue to helps students obtain money for explained. “My dad was big on we participate year after year? college and post-secondary train- never came to the table unless the “I think it’s the best program ing, as well as assist students in animals had been fed first.” going for our youth,” said Todd continuing to raise animals. At 85, Harold Hornback still Calfee, a 1979 Humble High DeAnn Hamilton, a 1985 goes to work every day as a sales- graduate who followed in his father HHS graduate who started in the man for a metal building company. Ray Calfee’s footsteps by raising 4H program at age 9, raised poultry, That work ethic was passed down animals for the livestock show. showed breed stock and took on to son Billy and his children. Now he oversees the efforts of his leadership roles throughout the Billy’s children Billy Bob, daughter Nikki, a junior in the FFA years. All three of her children now 30, and Harold Wayne, who program at participated in the recent show. passed away in 1998, raised several and son Clint, 12, who participates Wes, 18, attends HHS while award-winning animals. Nine-year- through 4H. Nikki’s steer took 6th Joleigh, 13, is a student at Timber- Matt Younts of HHS with his grand old daughter Michaela is currently place in the 2007 livestock show wood Middle and 7-year-old Zane champion steer. involved in the 4H program. while Clint’s rabbit won 3rd place. attends Oaks Elementary. “I’ve been to a lot of livestock “My brothers and sisters and Wes took reserve champion father and son Harold and Billy shows and I’d say we have the all of their kids have been in the for his photography while Joleigh Hornback, long-time supporters of strongest school district show in program, too. It’s kind of a tradition won grand champion pie and took the program. The Hornbacks, a Texas. It’s a tradition here,” Billy for us,” he added. “The kids learn 6th place with her turkey. Zane took fourth-generation Humble family, Hornback said. “It’s not just about about sportsmanship, competition, home grand champion in photogra- are very involved in raising cattle showing steers or pigs or rabbits. where food comes from, public phy and reserve champion for his and generously share knowledge Our whole goal is not to raise grand speaking, leadership, goal setting strawberry cake. and barn space with a few fortunate champion animals but to raise and the responsibilities of taking “The biggest benefits from high school students each year. grand champion kids.”

Rachel and Jonathan Taylor Calfee of Willow Creek Elementary, Reese Kakkie Jo Lee of Lakeland Elementary, Brady Dakota Ferrero of King- Dziedzic of Atascocita High, Watson of Summerwood Elementary and Riley Faggard of Humble High and Michaela wood High School. and Autumn Dziedzic of Pine Watson of Timberwood Middle. Hornback of Lakeland Elementary. Forest Elementary.

8 YourYour SCHOOLS SCHOOLS Spring Spring 07 07 Mark your calendar for April Fine Arts Fest You Festival. This free, family event can help your will be held from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. children experi- on Saturday, April 28, at the ence the joy of Kingwood College Fitness Center/ art, music, Fine Arts Building. theater and storytelling by taking Participants will enjoy more them to the Fifth Annual Humble than 10 free, hands-on creation ISD/Kingwood College Fine Arts stations, such as marbelized paper, weaving, shrink art and hat mak- ing. Approximately 1,000 pieces of student art will be displayed. Every Humble ISD elemen- tary school will have a musical group performing. Older students and professional artists will give demonstrations and performances. Food concessions and T-shirts will The Fine Arts Festival always draws a crowd. Hands-on creation stations are especially popular.

have fun creating together,” Stacia Gower, Humble ISD elementary fine arts facilitator, said. “It’s so be sold. A silent auction that helps special to see families participating fund the festival offers one-of-a- in the arts.” kind shopping for items such as Besides being fun, the festival original art and sports memorabilia. is educational. Elissa Jeter of Woodland Hills “This is an event the entire “For students whose work is Elementary School loved painting family — from pre-schoolers to displayed or who perform, the Artydillo, the festival mascot, at last grandparents — can attend and festival is an opportunity to de- year’s event. velop presentation skills and to receive recognition for their creative accomplishments,” Gower said. “The festival is a comprehen- sive overview of our district’s fine arts curriculum.” The Fine Arts Festival is partially funded by a grant from the Humble ISD Education Founda- tion. A portion of the proceeds from the event sponsor a Dr. Alford Moore Fine Arts Grant, which supports innovative fine arts projects in Humble ISD schools.

Geraldine Morar was among the The Dynamites from Woodland Hills Elementary School gave an exciting students displaying original art at the performance at the 2006 festival. 2006 festival.

Your SCHOOLS Spring Spring 07 07 9 Students relive early American history, culture taken the program. Grants from the Humble ISD Education Foundation totaling $39,000 allowed the schools to purchase the “Why America is Free” curriculum, Fifth-graders at 19 of which included textbooks, teacher Humble ISD’s elementary schools materials and multimedia DVDs. participated in a six-week immer- The Humble ISD Education sion into early American history, Foundation receives donations exploring the reasons why the from individuals and businesses to American Revolution took place. fund projects such as this one that The students also gained a better schools could not afford to imple- understanding of the U.S. Consti- ment with their regular budgets. tution and the Bill of Rights. Merry Lobrecht, Humble ISD Lessons involved history, social studies coordinator, said language arts, math, science, art, students understand and remember music and PE. Students embraced important historical concepts after the 18th century by writing jour- going through the program. nals, creating a Book of Heroes, “I really think experiential Sewing was a necessary skill for 18th and learning to identify with their learning is giving them an under- century girls. Korina Giacona of national history as they relived this standing of the founding of Maplebrook Elementary School, above, shows off her sewing lesson dynamic time in America’s America,” Lobrecht said. “That’s work. foundation. The study concludes critical for students to be good with Patriots Day in which stu- citizens, as well as for them to do At right, John Paul Rodriquez of dents live a day as patriots in the well academically. This is an area Timbers Elementary enjoys making American Revolution. on the TAKS test that is tested candles at Patriots Day. In 2004-2005, Greentree again and again in grades 8, 10, Elementary was the first school in and 11.” Humble ISD to immerse their Equally important, students students into 18th century America find the curriculum to be fun. “The using this curriculum. Since then, kids absolutely love it,” Lobrecht 18 other campuses have under- said. “They get so much out of it.”

Above, Sarah Wilson and Kci Hill of Timbers Elementary churned delicious homemade butter at Patriots Day.

At right, Timbers Elementary School From left, Jason Rowland, and Joshua Breaux of of Maplebrook Elementary fifth-grader Shelby Prewitt tries out an School practice writing with quill pens. 18th century game.

10 Your SCHOOLS Spring 07 New Schools Ahead New school named after Kingwood Park HS (2007)

Formerly KHS 9th Grade Mi

lls B

Chanay r an Ross Sterling of Humble Oil Northpark Drive ch Dr adow ksh oo . Br Tre e Lane High Val The naming of Humble ISD’s newest middle school, Sterling Loop 494 ley

Lak ood Pi Middle School, has prompted many people to ask the question, “Who gw Drive ne Kin Terr e ace H o was Ross Sterling?” If you are a seventh grader in Humble ISD studying Lake . r u Village s D t o nd s l n

l i Texas History, you may already know! Ross Shaw Sterling was the 32

P H

k

Highway 59 d w n

y a

l Governor of Texas, but it is because of his special history with the

d

o o

W Humble community that he is honored in naming the district’s seventh Hamblen Road San Jacinto River Lake Houston middle school. W

.

L a Ross Sterling was born in Chambers County in 1875. He grew up k e H o Deerbrook u on a farm, but began working as a clerk at age 12. His ambition and sto Mall n P t kw

s y

e e hard work at learning merchandising paid off, when at the age of 21, he r r Lak o Uppe

F

F r M 1 e started his own business. After having great success as an entrepreneur,

9 b 60

m

B i y pass FM 1960 T Ross Sterling embarked on a new venture which developed into the Farmingham Humble Oil and Refining Company. During the development of the

Ross Sterling Middle School (2007) s esome Wood company, Humble grew from a village of 700 to a town of 20,000! ad Lon Highway 59 Ro Formerly HHS 9th Grade ita scoc In addition to oil, Sterling was involved in railroads, newspapers, Ata Will Clay banking, and real estate in the Houston area. He defeated former office

ton Parkw ay W

W .

oln il Dr. Hills oodland

Will Clayton Parkway L

a holder Miriam Ferguson in the 1930 race for governor. When he took the k

River Pines e H

o oath of office, the worst effects of the Great Depression were beginning

Elementary u

s

S. Houston ad t o

(2007) n

P to appear in the state.

Ro

a

r

n Elementary in k

w

o

a After his defeat in the election of 1932, he returned to the oil

s

l

y i Lakeshore Subdivision d W industry. He established Sterling Oil and Refining Co., and continued to Roa

umble be a powerful figure in Texas industry until his death in 1949. H

d Mesa Ol Ross Sterling Middle School opens in August at the site of the Beltway 8 Middle School in former Humble Ninth Grade Campus, located at 1131 Wilson Road in Summerwood Subdivision Elementary in Humble. Fall Creek Subdivision High School #6

New schools opening in August 2007 Sites for future schools

Humble ISD Sterling Middle School opens on Aug. 27 at Enrollment Facts and Figures 1131 Wilson Road, site Enrollment in Special Populations of the former Humble Ninth Grade Campus. Asian Economically Disadvantaged: 26 % The school is named 3% African Special Education: 9 % American 17% after Ross Shaw Gifted and Talented: 8 % Sterling, who developed Limited English Proficient: 8 % Humble Oil and White Refining Company. 57% Hispanic Many are surprised to learn of 23% our community’s linguistic diversity. More than 40 languages are spoken by students in Humble ISD. Spanish, Vietnamese, Urdu, Arabic and Photo courtesy of the Texas Chinese were the most frequently State Library and Archives Commission. Total Student Enrollment: spoken foreign languages among English language learners in our 31,331 district.

Your SCHOOLS Spring 07 11 Elm Grove love for kids leads couple to foster parenting

Elm Grove Elementary why I became a teacher and why I the Humble ISD Early Head Start School kindergarten teacher Missy became a foster parent. I always Program, and Danielle, a Wallis received an OfficeMax/ felt that I was saved by my Kingwood College student, are Education Foundation of Harris parents.” supportive of their parents’ efforts County “Teacher of the Month Mike and Carol Johnson, to help children in crisis. Award.” Here is her extraordinary Missy’s adoptive parents, recently “We have two wonderful story: retired from being foster parents daughters. They really help us At a young age, Missy Wallis and are living in Wisconsin. out,” said Missy. “It’s also been an made a commitment to devote her Despite having many children eye-opening experience for them life to making a positive impact on under their roof throughout the because they have seen what harm children. She followed through on years, Missy remembers that the drug abuse and unsafe sex can do her promise by choosing a career as Johnsons always managed to to a family, especially to young an elementary teacher and by spend time together and to take women.” becoming a foster parent along with family vacations. CPS places children ages her husband, Hank. Hank and Missy were trained newborn to 13 to the Wallis home Since 1993, the couple has and certified as foster parents for an average 6 months’ stay. permanent scars. None of this opened their home and their hearts about 10 years into their marriage Typically, youngsters come to deters Missy and Hank who keep to a total of 23 foster children in and after they had their two them dirty, lice infested, upset and plenty of supplies on hand to take Louisiana and Texas. At the daughters. Kathy, who works for burdened with issues that can leave care of the children’s physical present time, the Wallis household needs as they offer loving support includes daughters Kathy, 22, and to address the emotional concerns. Danielle, 18, adopted son Joey, 5, Although foster parenting is and three foster children. Siblings challenging, Missy adds that it is Crystal, 8; Christian, 6, and very rewarding. Matthew, 4, have lived in Hank, who is in the Navy Kingwood with the Wallis family Reserves, is training in California just over a year but soon will be and soon will be deployed to Iraq. placed with an adoptive family. As an involved foster dad, Hank Missy, a kindergarten teacher particularly likes parenting the at Elm Grove Elementary, has a older children while his wife heart for the little ones who are especially enjoys caring for the placed by Harris County Child babies. Protective Services (CPS) due to “I couldn’t do it without him emergency situations. She knows and it’s really hard now that he’s first hand what it means to have being deployed,” said Missy. caring adults offer security, “Sometimes we laugh about how comfort and love to a child facing we’re not supposed to have any an uncertain future. kids at home at this point in our “My parents were foster lives. But our older daughters have parents for 50 years. They had four come back home, we adopted a 5- boys of their own and adopted year-old son and we have three three more children, including me. foster children, so we’re in it for They got me when I was 6 months Elm Grove Elementary School kindergarten teacher and foster mom Missy the long run!” old and adopted me when I was 2 Wallis has dedicated her life to helping kids learn and grow. Pictured are (top To learn about foster years old,” explained Missy. row, from left) Kathy, Danielle and (front row, from left) Crystal, Joey, Matthew parenting, contact the Texas “Because I was adopted, I knew and Christian. Joey displays a photo of his dad, Hank Wallis, who is being Department of Family and Protec- that I wanted to help children. It’s deployed to Iraq. tive Services at 1-800-233-3405.

12 Your SCHOOLS Spring 07 Growing even faster than projected

When the Fullmer family relocated from New Mexico in District Enrollment Through the Decades 2005, finding good public schools was a top priority. They asked 40,000 relatives and friends for school district recommendations and 35,000 verified information on the 30,000 Internet. Their choice: Humble ISD. 25,000 “It seemed like a great fit for Beltway 8 and Lake Houston area our family,” Denise Fullmer said, 20,000 are at record numbers: 2,423 for adding that her children love 2006 compared to an annual 15,000 attending Eagle Springs Elemen- average of 1,200 for 2001-2004. tary School. “The teachers are To address the growth, the 10,000 excellent, and we see our kids Board has established a Commu- thriving.” 5,000 nity Bond 2008 Study Committee The Fullmers are not alone. 11,833 24,684 31,331 37,310 that will make recommendations 0 2,542 19,521 As new subdivisions spring up, on needed projects and cost 70-71 80-81 90-91 00-01 06-07 10-11 thousands of families are choosing (projected) estimates. to raise their children in Humble ISD. That has resulted in the district growing even faster than expected. Recent Growth: Back in 2004, a comprehen- New Students Added Per Year sive demographic study projected that there would be 30,777 students 1,800 in the district under the most-likely 1,700 growth scenario. The reality: Humble ISD is educating 31,331 1,600 children this year. That’s even 1,500 slightly more than the “high growth 1,400 scenario” that was presented by the demographers at the time. 1,300 “From every indication, we 1,200 will continue to be one of the 1,100 fastest growing school districts in the state of Texas for the foresee- 1,000 able future,” Superintendent Dr. 900 Guy Sconzo said. 800 Home starts in the Atascocita, 700 600 500 400 300 200 542 663 280 549 555 697 896 1,081 1,621 1,797 100 1997-98 1998-99 1999-00 2000-01 2001-02 2002-03 2003-04 2004-05 2005-06 2006-07

Your SCHOOLS Spring 07 13 Housing construction impacts district growth

The signs are everywhere: New homes for sale! The number of new students enrolling in our schools is exceeding demographer’s expectations. As housing construction impacts schools and more families settle in Humble ISD, additional campuses are needed to prevent overcrowding. These photos show some of the housing construction underway in our area.

14 Your SCHOOLS Spring 07 Celebrating Panther Pride and Mustang Spirit! Kingwood to be served by two high schools next year

History will be made in August 2007 when Kingwood residents will be served by two high schools. Here are answers to frequently-asked ques- tions.

Q. Will there be two high schools in Kingwood in 2007-2008? Yes! Humble ISD will be operating Kingwood Park High School (KPHS) at 4015 Woodland Hills Drive (site of the former Kingwood Ninth Grade Campus) and Kingwood High School (KHS) at 2701 Kingwood Drive.

Q. What grades will each high school serve next year? In fall 2007, students at Kingwood High School will enjoy new or renovated facilities for special education, the clinic, administration, science, the Next year will be a transitional year. For 2007-2008 only, KPHS will auditorium, orchestra, dance and the field house. Other areas will be closed serve students in grades 9-10. This includes ALL freshmen who reside during Phase II of the construction. Portable buildings will be used. Kingwood in Kingwood and those sophomores who reside in the KPHS atten- High School’s $44 million extreme school makeover is scheduled to be completed dance zone. KHS will serve all 11-12th graders in Kingwood and 10th in the summer of 2008. graders from the KHS attendance zone.

Q. After next year, what grades will each high school Q. What is the attendance zone for Kingwood Park serve? High School? Beginning in 2008-2009, KHS will serve 9th-11th graders who reside in KPHS’s attendance zone encompasses neighborhoods served by its attendance zone and all Kingwood seniors. In 2008-2009, KPHS Kingwood Middle School. The only exceptions are students residing will serve 9th -11th graders who reside in its attendance zone. Twelfth in Kings Forest, Kingwood Lakes and Kingwood Lakes Apartments. grade will be added at KPHS in 2009-2010. The Class of 2010 will be These areas are zoned to Bear Branch and Foster elementary schools, the first to graduate from KPHS. About 75 students per grade level Kingwood Middle School and Kingwood Park High School. How- will be allowed to transfer from other Humble ISD high schools to ever, they are located right by Kingwood High School. Due to their KPHS so that the school will have a student body of 1,600 students. proximity to Kingwood High, students in Kings Forest, Kingwood Lakes and Kingwood Lakes Apartments may choose either high school. Attendance zones are listed at www.humble.k12.tx.us.

Q. What is the attendance zone for Kingwood High School? KHS’s attendance zone encompasses neighborhoods served by Creekwood and Riverwood middle schools. Attendance zones are listed at www.humble.k12.tx.us.

Q. Why are there going to be two high schools? For years, residents expressed concerns about the large student enrollment at KHS. KHS currently serves 3,000 students and the When KHS opens in August 2007, visitors to the front of the school will be Kingwood Ninth Grade Campus serves 1,100 freshmen. In 2002 and greeted by a new prominent stone entrance, arched brick canopies and in 2005, voters approved bond funds to provide facilities for a second landscaping. high school in Kingwood.

Your SCHOOLS Spring 07 15 Celebrating Panther Pride and Mustang Spirit! Q. In what ways will KPHS and KHS be similar? Q. I live in the Kingwood Park attendance zone, but I want Both schools will offer students the full complement of athletic, fine my child to attend Kingwood High. What can I do? art and academic opportunities. Both schools will have top-notch KHS is not accepting students from outside its attendance area faculties committed to academic and co-curricular excellence. because of the school’s enrollment and construction issues.

Q. In what ways will KPHS and KHS be different? Q. I live in the Kingwood Park attendance zone, but my KPHS will have a smaller enrollment of about 1,600 students. With children attended Creekwood or Riverwood middle this enrollment, it will compete in the 4A division of UIL. New pro- school because I received special permission for grams planned especially for KPHS include Air Force ROTC, wres- tling and auto body shop. KHS is designed to accommodate 2,800 them to go there. What high school will they attend? students and will continue to compete in the 5A division of UIL. Attendance zones are determined by where you live, not by where you attended school prior to high school. Q. What are the colors and mascot of the new school? Q. Bear Branch Elemen- KPHS’s colors are black, forest green and silver. The black panther tary School sends was chosen as the mascot. students to both King- wood and Creekwood Q. I think a smaller high school would be better for middle schools. I’m my child, but I don’t live in the Kingwood Park confused about where attendance zone. What can I do? my child will attend KPHS offers families the choice of a smaller high school. Students high school. living in Humble ISD may apply to KPHS by going to In Bear Branch Village, www.humble.k12.tx.us, clicking on “site map,” clicking on “student students who live west of the transfers,” and following directions to email the request form. Anyone Bens Branch drainage ditch with questions may contact Margaret Baker at 281-641-8101. Stu- attend Kingwood Middle dents will be admitted on a space-available basis, and area bus School and KPHS. Students transportation will be offered. who live east of the Bens Branch drainage ditch in Bear A view of Bens Branch drainage ditch Branch Village attend and Bear Branch Elementary from Creekwood Middle School and Tree Lane. KHS. Zoned to Kingwood Middle, Kingwood Park High School

Zoned to Creekwood Middle, Kingwood High School

To convert the Kingwood Ninth Grade Campus into Kingwood Park High School, nearly 150,000 square feet were added to the building. KPHS contains four small learning communities, or houses, designed to each serve about 400 students. Each house contains academic classrooms and offices for an assistant principal and counselor. Two houses share a 129-seat lecture theater, five science labs and teacher planning areas. Computer lounges within each house allow students the opportunity to work alone or in small groups. A Performing Arts Center and athletic facilities also were added to the campus. KPHS construction cost was $33.7 million.

16 YourYour SCHOOLS SCHOOLS Spring Spring 07 07

Teen Lit Fest promotes reading More than 800 people participated in the Humble ISD Teen Lit Fest. The event brought nationally-known young adult authors Chris Crutcher, Justine Larbalestier, Scott Westerfeld, Gail Giles and Benjamin Saenz, along with graphic artist Chris Yambar, to interact with students and promote interest in reading. It was organized by Humble ISD librarians and funded through grants and donations. AHS freshman Jared Araguz, left, won a drawing through the AHS S.O.A.R. club (Step Out and Read!) to be first in line to have a book autographed by Scott Westerfeld. The author of Blue Noon and a number of other well-known books for teens has a local connection. He is the nephew of Atascocita Middle School Principal Ron Westerfeld.

Humble ISD featured on training DVD A new DVD highlights outstanding work in Humble ISD classrooms. A Los Angeles film crew visited North Belt and Greentree elementary schools to obtain the footage. The DVD shows Humble ISD teachers involving students in retelling activities after reading. Teachers use retelling activities to help students become better readers, writers and thinkers. Vicki Benson Castagna, Ph.D., an author and consultant, trains faculty in the use of retelling as a teaching strategy and recommended Humble ISD for the film. The video training program is being produced by the Bureau of Education and Research, which provides staff development for teachers through- out the and Canada. At left, Greentree students Madison Freeman, Ana Garcia and Kaitlyn Parson demonstrate a retelling activity for the camera.

Your Schools is published by the Humble Independent School District. Non-Profit Org Humble ISD U.S. Postage Humble ISD Board of Trustees P.O. Box 2000 Dr. Bonnie Longnion, president PAID Mike Sullivan, vice president Humble, TX 77347-2000 Humble, TX 77338 Jim Eggers, secretary Permit No. 262 Dave Martin, parliamentarian Lynn Fields, member Daniel G. Huberty, member Keith Lapeze, 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