rattler review

Volume 16 Edition 2 October 2011

The Monitor’s Readers Choice Awards

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The U.S. Department of Education named 304 schools, including Sharyland North Ju-nior High and B.L. Gray Junior High, as 2011 National Blue Ribbon Schools based on their overall academic excellence or for their success in closing achievement gaps. The Department will honor the entire 255 public and 49 private schools with their National Blue Ribbon School awards at a conference and awards ceremony Nov. 14-15 in Wash-ington, D.C. “America’s long-term economic prosperity and civic engagement depends on our chil-dren receiving a world-class education,” Duncan said. “National Blue Ribbon Schools are committed to accelerating student achievement and preparing students for suc-cess in college and careers. Their success is an example for others to follow.” The National Blue Ribbon School award honors public and private elementary, middle and high schools where students achieve at high levels or where the achievement gap is narrowing. Since 1982, more than 6,500 of America’s schools have received this cov-eted award.The National Blue Ribbon Schools Program, honors public and private schools based on one of two criteria: 1. Schools whose students are high performing. These are schools ranked among each state’s highest performing schools as measured by their performance on state assessments or, in the case of private schools, that score at the highest performance level on nationally normed tests; or 2. Schools with at least 40 percent of their students from disadvantaged backgrounds that improve student performance to high levels as measured by the school’s performance on state assess-ments or nationally-normed tests. Before selecting National Blue Ribbon Schools, the Department asks for nominations from the top education offi cial in every state, the District of Columbia, Puerto Rico, the Department of Defense Education Activity, and the Bureau of Indian Education. The Council for American Private Education (CAPE) nominates private schools. A total of 413 schools nationwide are nominated, based on the number of K-12 students and the number of schools in each jurisdiction. The schools are invited by the Secretary of Education to submit an application for possible recognition as a National Blue Ribbon School.

The Sharyland Independent School District has announced that the Texas Education Agency has rated the district’s fi -

nancial management as “Superior Achievement” for the ninth consecutive year. “Superior Achievement” is the highest rating a school district can receive for fi nancial management and reporting.This is the ninth year of Schools FIRST – “Financial Integrity Rating System of Texas”, developed in response to Senate Bill 875 of the 76the Texas Legislature in 1999. The fi nancial health of every school district in Texas is evaluated as part of the test system. The primary goal of Schools FIRST is to achieve quality per-formance in the management of school district’s fi nancial resources.The Schools FIRST accountability rating system assigns one of four fi nancial rat-ings to Texas school districts base on twenty-four indicators. The possible rat-ings are “Superior Achievement”, Above-Standard Achievement”, “Standard Achievement”, and “Substandard Achievement.”

Sharyland ISD receives top fi nancial rating

Early voting starts: October 24Early voting starts: October 24Election Day: Election Day: November 8November 8

Superintendent’s Message

Lloyd and DollyBentsen Elem.

John H. Shary Elem.

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Olivero Garza, Sr. Elem.

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Jessie L. Jensen Elem.

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B.L. Gray Junior High School

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Sharyland High School

Sharyland North Junior High School

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Donna Wernecke Elem.

Sharyland News

SISD News

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Harry Shimotsu Elem.

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Ruben Hinojosa Elem.

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Romulo D. Martinez Elem.

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Table of Contents

Sharyland Independent School District1106 N. Shary RoadMission, TX 78572-4652 956-580-5200 www.sharylandisd.org

School BoardSuperintendent - Scott B. OwingsBoard President - Ricky LongoriaVice-President - Dr. Noe OliveiraSecretary - Suzanne PeñaAssistant Secretary - Rolando PeñaMember - Dr. Noe O. Garza Member - Fernando Ramirez Member - Juan F. Zuniga

Published by SISD’s Public Information Offi ce. If you have comments or sug-gestions, please call Dolores Martinez at extension 1088.

As of this publication, Sharyland High School has 3048 students. A long standing goal here in the district, was to not let the high school get above 3,000 students. Underneath my comments is a section of a research based article regarding the benefi ts of smaller schools. In summary, it states large high schools become impersonal, students become just a face in the crowd, and issues like class sizes

and safety begin to surface. Sharyland takes pride in the amount of student involvement there is in school activities. As a high school gets “super sized”, a smaller and smaller percentage of students get involved. Without involvement, they start to fall through the cracks. In July, the School Board formed a committee to review the question of whether Sharyland needs a second high school. They scoured over tons of data, and asked many questions, having meetings on July 25, August 8 and August 22. The committee unanimously recommended to the Board on August 23 that the district needs a second high school. The School Board then called for a bond election with the only proposal being a high school. Early voting starts October 24, with the regular Election Day November 8. Additional information regarding the bond is included in this publication. A few other points I would like to stress are:

• The District has put over $16 million dollars into the current high school campus over the last few years to

bring it up to date.• Sharyland has a history of integrity

when it comes to bond issues. We do not “overbuild”; we build cost-effi cient, instructionally eff ective schools.

• We follow through with our bond promises; building exactly what we promise, and keeping it within budget.

• The Board and administration have always run a lean effi cient budget, keeping the Sharyland tax rate one of the lowest in the RGV.

• A high school complex takes over 2 years to build. By that time, the current campus could be 3400-3600 students.

• Remember, residents 65 and older can get their tax rate frozen at current levels.

Page 2

Superintendent’s Message

Scott B. Owings, Superintendent

Rattler Review Designed by Rocio Guerra

Public Information Specialist

TEA “Recognized” School District

SharylandIndependent School District

Benefi ts of Smaller SchoolsCEFPI Briefi ng on Education Facility Issues 2001

• better attendance and retention• better behavior• more engagement and sense of belonging• better academic achievement• increased participation in activities• greater parent involvement• more positive self-image

• more commitment to the school and students• greater participation• expend more eff ort for student success

Student/Family Benefi ts

Teacher Benefi ts

• more eff ective governance• better support of staff and students• more helpful advising• less bureaucracy• participants more empowered• schools are safer

Institutional Benefi ts

2010 Sharyland High School 2010 Sharyland High School Bond RenovationsBond Renovations

400 Building/26 classrooms

Remodeled 200 building physics labs

4 New science labs New Computer Labs New 200 building air conditioning

Bus loop, parking and drainage improvements Pavilion

Alternative Education Building

THE RATTLER REVIEW AT LLOYD AND DOLLY BENTSEN ELEMENTARY

TBEC Honor Roll Award

Reading Millionaire

Special Visit

Careers on

Wheels

May the 4’s Be With You

Perfect Attendance

Miss Hidalgo County

Grandparents’ Day

2011 TEA Exemplary

PrincipalCarla Zuazua-Garza

5th grade student Alan Moreno is the fi rst millionaire of the 2011/2012 Millionaire’s Reading club.

Bentsen Elementary represents Sharyland ISD for the third year in a row on the 2011 TBEC Honor Roll.

Congratulations to Bentsen Elementary for another Exemplary year!

Students once again achieved our goal of EXEMPLARY, therefore Mrs. Zuazua-Garza cheerfully kept her word of kissing a pig in front of the entire student body!!

Bentsen Elementary started the year on the right track! SISD Superintendent, Mr. Owings presented Mrs. Zuazua-Garza with the district Tower Award for the Highest TAKS gains!

Students from Ms. Rangel’s 1st grade class pose with Frogalina the attendance mascot for having perfect attendance for the entire week.

4th grade students that scored “4s” on the TAKS test.

School board member Suzanne Peña visits Bensten Elementary.

Generation Texas was a huge suc-cess at Bentsen Elementary. The counselors brought in parents and community members for Ca-reer Day and Careers on Wheels.

Miss Hidalgo County Alex-andra Peña reads and en-courages 3rd grade students at Bentsen Elementary to do well in school.

Ms. Zavala’s 1st grade class presents “The Little Red Hen” for Grandparents’ Day.

PrincipalRainer Clover

THE RATTLER REVIEW AT OLIVERO GARZA, SR. ELEMENTARY

“Respect-acle” Vision Garza Partners in Education

Education “ Go Get It Week”

Garza Grandparents’ Day

In touch with Technology

Free to Read at Garza

Garza Girls bump, set and serve!

O. Garza celebrated Education “Go Get It Week” on September 26th-30th. Each day, the O.Garza staff and students showed their college spirit by wearing college t-shirts, caps, and colors. Tuesday was “Kick off education to a great start” and everyone wore their favorite boots. At O. Garza we believe that ALL students can be college graduates.

Friday, September 16th was a great day at Garza Elementary. All students got to choose a book at the fi rst RIF distribution of the year. RIF stands for Reading is FUNdamental. A huge “Thank you” goes out to the Garza SPTSO for covering the 25% not covered by the RIF foundation.

On Tuesday, September, 27, the girls volleyball team had their home opener against John H. Shary Elem. They bumped, set, and served their way through 5 exciting games. Both schools fi elded two outstanding teams. All games were down to the wire, with the girls from Garza taking 3 out of 5. Congratulations to all of the athletes!

O. Garza grandparents were honored on Monday, September 12th with a “Grand Bingo” & breakfast in recognition of Grandparent’s Day. Our grandparents had a wonderful time and we thank them for being a positive infl uence in the lives of their grandchildren.

On Tuesday, September 6th, O. Garza hosted a “Partners in Education Night” in recognition of Parent and Family Involvement in Education Week. The library was open for families to read books together as well as to A.R. test. In the gym, O. Garza faculty painted faces, made bookmarks and placed temporary tattoos on students and their families. There were also games, health information and volunteer forms for our O. Garza families. We had a great time and extend a big “Thank You” to our O. Garza staff who volunteered to make family night a success.

First grade reviewed their Math skills using iPads in Mrs. Mealing’s class. They were able to use some Math apps for practicing addition, as well as counting money.Mr. Teniente’s 6th grade math class just got a whole lot more exciting with these new iPads! Stu-dents explored the Math Apps in their IPads and experienced fractions, multiplication, time and money in a whole new way!

For the month of September, Garza Counselors introduced the students to the concept of Respect. They discussed the feelings that accompany receiving and giving respect. First grade students created “Respect-acles” to help watch for and show respect to one another.

PrincipalDr. Debra Arce

THE RATTLER REVIEW AT RUBEN HINOJOSA ELEMENTARY

Student Council

Perfect Attendance

Party

KRHE Radio club

Bus Safety

SPTSO Meeting

Dr. Arce, Mr. Vera and Mrs. Luci Williamson posing with the newly elected Ruben Hinojosa Elementary Student Council Representatives: President- Pablo Perez, Vice-President- Michael Thomson, Treasurer- Natalia Oaxaca and Secretary- Angel Morales.

Dr. Arce addressing the student body about the responsibilities that our Student Council repre-sentatives have to comply with while serving their time in offi ce. We are very proud of our stu-dent elected offi cials.

Our Hinojosa student council members and class representatives along with local attor-ney, Luci Williamson. Congratulations to all!

Students are celebrating to the theme of the 60's era for our A.R. bash and Per-fect attendance at Ruben Hinojosa El-ementary. Groovy looking students.

Dr. Arce and Mr. Vera posing with some stu-dents at Ruben Hinojosa's Perfect atten-dance celebration. We are so proud of our "Grooooovyy" students.

Peace and happiness being shown here as students happily pose in their 60's attire. Way to go students in accomplishing your A.R. goals. Keep up the good job!!!

Ms. Lettie Crixell and the 2011-2012 KRHE Radio club members. Way to go DJ’s and sponsor. The team is always ready to inform our staff and student body with the latest in news, weather and sports.

Our “Hinojosa” 4th grade students per-forming their skit at our fi rst SPTSO meet-ing of the year.

Students at our SPTSO meeting singing to the theme of “School House Rock” and the Preamble of our Constitution.

Sharyland I.S.D. School Bus drivers are enjoying a morning educating our students on Bus Safety proce-dures. Students were very attentive to the discussion that was happening aboard the bus.

Students really enjoyed the presentation and were able to learn many ways on how to be safe during bus transporta-tion.

PrincipalMargarita Gonzalez

THE RATTLER REVIEW AT JESSIE JENSEN ELEMENTARY

The J.E.T. Club

1st day of School

Student Council Spirit Night

Muffi ns for Mom & Donuts for Dad

16 de septiembre

Relevance

Balloon Relay

Rigor, Relevance & Relationships

Adopt a FISH

Be a Buddy not a Bully

Sharyland 5K

The Jensen Environmental Team hosted a presentation on recycling. Jensen is committed to helping our earth by learning about recycling and its impact on society.

Jensen staff going above and beyond by volunteering, committing and dedicating their time to our mentoring program.

Students in counseling classes learned the slogan to “Be a Buddy, Not a Bully”. Students created bracelets and are being displayed on our “Be a Buddy Wall” to serve as a symbol to be a buddy and a good FISH!

Students and staff were ready to start off the year on a positive note. Mrs. Miranda’s Pre Kinder class was excited about school.

Staff and students participated and came together as a school of FISH! in the Districts 5K run.

Students voted for participants who were running for student council. The students recited speeches and elections were held for the 2011-2012 school year.

Jensen parents came together to support their children and parents took time from their busy schedule to spend time with their children.

FISH! night out at Chick-fi l-a was a success thanks to our staff , parents and students.

Celebrating Spanish Heritage Month, Jensen had a great 16 de septiembre presentation with singing and dancing.

Mrs. Franco and her students integrating a relevance activity in her 6thgrade class.

Staff brainstormed and created a gallery walk to share ideas on how rigor, relevance and relationships can make a diff erence to help the child succeed.

During our staff in-service, to kick off the year, 2 teams of 20 relayed their way to the fi nish line while working with partners to promote teamwork.

PrincipalCynthia Sandoval - Wilson

THE RATTLER REVIEW AT B.L. GRAY JR. HIGH SCHOOL

B.L. Gray Jr. High Earns National Blue Ribbon Award

Blue Bell celebrates Blue Ribbon

All Parents Welcomed!

SPTSO Fundraiser to Benefi t School

See You at the Pole!

National Talk Like a Pirate Day

Attending Rattler events are part of our school’s traditions. What began last year is in full eff ect throughout the district this year. If any student would like to attend a game, a band concert, a drama performance, and you are under the age of 18, you must be accompanied by an adult. The safety of our students is key; therefore, make it a family night and attend any event at our school! We’ll be glad to see you there!

“See You At The Pole” was held on Wednesday, September 28, 2011. B.L. Gray had over 20 students show up for early morning prayer honoring “See You At The Pole” Day.

In recognition of receiving the honor of being named a Blue Ribbon school, Blue Bell Ice Cream visited B.L. Gray Jr. High, donating free ice cream to everyone. B.L. Gray was offi cially designated as a 2011 National Blue Ribbon School by the U.S. Department of Education, making us part of a very elite group of only 305 schools from across the nation who have received this prestigious honor.

Mrs. Deborah Horn brought out all the drama dressing up for National Talk Like a Pirate Day! September 19th was National “Talk Like a Pirate Day”. The students were required to talk like pirates during the class period. Our drama students wrote an entry into a ship’s log and char-acter descriptions of pirates using “pirate” vocabulary. This was a re-view for the class discussions and study of characterization

It is offi cial! The U.S. Department of Education named B.L. Gray Junior High, as a 2011 National Blue Ribbon School based on their overall academic excellence. The Department of Education will honor the entire 255 public and 49 private schools with their National Blue Ribbon School awards at a conference and awards ceremony Nov. 14-15 in Washington, D.C.

National Blue Ribbon Schools are committed to student achievement and preparing students for success in the classroom as well as in their future college endeavors. B.L. Gray Jr. High is being honored based on students’s academic excellence. Schools like B.L. Gray have improved student performance to high levels as measured by the school’s performance on state assessments. We are so proud to be B.L. GRAY RAT-TLERS!

Our B.L. Gray SPTSO team is off to a hardworking start to fulfi ll the needs at B.L. Gray. Using America’s Choice Fundraisers, our SPTSO is raising money for the children of our community. SPTSO hopes to purchase a sound system for our gymnasium and cafeteria that will off er better quality sound for our band, choir, drama, cheer and dance team to name a few. High on the SPTSO priority list is providing canopies for all of the benched areas so the students can have some protection. So, say “yes” and help out with our fundraiser!

THE RATTLER REVIEW AT B.L. GRAY JR. HIGH SCHOOL

Volleyball season is underway at B.L. Gray and our Lady Rattlers are continuing in a winning tradition! The B.L. Gray 8th grade RED Volleyball team kicked off the tournament Friday, September 10, 2011, with a win against Sharyland North Diamondbacks, which took them to the Championship bracket Saturday. They went on to defeat the Missions Lady Patriots in 2 matches and brought home a 3rd place trophy! Way to go ladies! Keep our tradition alive!

It’s time for a new season for the Mighty B.L. Gray tennis team. Heading into his 17th season and 3 year winning streak in Valley tennis, Coach Neeley seems confi dent but cautious about his upcoming season. He believes the current group will do justice to the B.L. Gray legacy and continue to perform at a high level. Good luck Rattler Tennis Team! Have a great year!

The B.L. Gray Rattlers dominated the UCA camp 2011 this summer! The Lady Rattlers earned the “Prestigious” Banana Award, took 1st in “Extreme Dance Routine”, 1st in Home Pom Routine, took home the new “Traditions” Award, Junior High Camp Champions, Spirit Stick, 5 Superior Ribbons, and 5 All-American Cheerleaders! We are so proud! Keeping the Tradition alive!

Our Mighty Rattlers are dominating the football fi eld this 2011 football season! Our 8th grade Red is off to great start in being undefeated after playing our fi rst couple of games! All of our teams are leaving it on the fi eld playing with heart, determination, and RATTLER PRIDE! Good luck Rattlers! Continue making us proud!

Tradition is key at B.L. Gray, but one new addition this year is our scoreboard. With great pride, our Rattler fans can look up and see great accomplishments our teams make. A huge “thank you” to the Pena Eye Institute, the Pena Family and Coca-Cola for their contribution in making this extraordinary addition happen!

Showing our Rattler Pride has long been a tradition at B.L. Gray, and this year is no diff erent. Games, music, band, cheerleaders, Glimmers, football players, volleyball players all come together for a good ol’ time! Come join our Rattler fun at our pep rallies as we support our Mighty Rattlers!

Score, Score, Scoreboard!

We’rrree BACK!

Everyone Wants to be a B.L. Gray Rattler!

Lady Rattler Volleyball Continuing Tradition

Ra, Ra, Rattler Rallies

Rattler Tennis Tradition Continues!

PrincipalDiamantina B. Chapa

THE RATTLER REVIEW AT SHARYLAND HIGH SCHOOL

Kevin Schach Particptaes in the Washington Leadership

Training Institute

Sophomore Karina Pompa made a hole in one at the Junior Tour-Hyatt Hill Country Tournament on August 1-2. The par 3 8th hole measured 144 yards and was no match for Pompa. Pompa went on to claim the victory of the two day Southern Texas PGA Junior Golf 2011 tournament. Karina is a member of the Girls Golf Team.

Kevin Schach, Skills USA District 13 President and Skills USA advisor Robert Salas attended the Leadership Training Institute for the SkillsUSA in Washington D.C on

September 17-21. Early in his visit, Kevin went through diff erent trainings to prepare for the congressional visit. He said he got to listen to a “magnifi cent keynote speaker who emphasized a lesson on the demands of the skilled workforce.” During the congressional visit, he spoke about the need to keep the Carl D. Perkins funding. Perkins Grants are federal funds provided through the Carl D. Perkins Career and Technical Education Act of 2006 for the advancement of career and technical education. Kevin said that this funding is crucial to the CTE programs in high schools and their accomplishments nationwide.“One of the most important things this trip has taught us was respecting all perspectives,” Kevin said. “We used collaboration and cooperation to achieve team success outside the classroom. Also, through involvement in SkillsUSA, this broadened the horizons of students to foster an open-minded approach to learning through more of a visual and hands-on quality education.”

Sharyland High School students, Kevin M. Schach, Skills USA District 13 President, and Katherine C. Torres, Sharyland FFA Chapter Vice-President/Area X 1st Vice-President, were honored as the September Career & Technology Education (CTE) Students of the Month by the Mission Rotary Club. Kevin and Katherine were recognized for their outstanding accomplishments in their respective CTE student organizations.

29 students at Sharyland High School have earned AP Scholar Awards in recognition of their exceptional achievement on AP Exams. The College Board’s Advanced Placement Program® (AP®) provides willing and academically prepared students with the opportunity to take rigorous college-level courses while still in high school, and to earn college credit, advanced placement, or both for successful performance on the AP Exams. About 18 percent of the more than 1.9 million students worldwide who took AP Exams performed at a suffi ciently high level to also earn an AP Scholar Award. The College Board recognizes several levels of achievement based on students’ performance on AP Exams. At Sharyland High School, two students qualifi ed for the AP Scholar with Distinction Award by earning an average score of at least 3.5 on all AP Exams taken, and scores of 3 or higher on fi ve or more of these exams. These students are Daeun Choi and Lauro Salinas. Three students qualifi ed for the AP Scholar with Honor Award by earning an average score of at least 3.25 on all AP Exams taken, and scores of 3 or higher on four or more of these exams. These students are Rachel D. Maceross, Ryan Martinez, and Lydia Orr. Twenty four students qualifi ed for the AP Scholar Award by completing three or more AP Exams with scores of 3 or higher. The AP Scholars are Daeun Choi, Yun Jin Choi, Andori Cuellar, Myrna Garza, Polet Garza, Oscar Gonzalez, Maria Ibarra, Kelley Krysti, Keemberly Kim, Jaekyu Lee, Katrina Longoria, Moises Martinez, Morgan Meadors, Marcela Mireles, Christopher Montalvo, Paul O’Donnell, Dina Perez, Karen Perez, Brendan Quinn, Mackenzie Riegert, Erick Rios, Marisa Rodriguez, Victoria Vale, and Sara Vicinaiz. Of this year’s award recipients at Sharyland High School, twelve are sophomores or juniors: Daeun Choi, Yun Jin Choi, Andori Cuellar, Myrna Garza, Jaekyu Lee, Marcela Mireles, Christopher Montalvo, Paul O’Donnell, Erick Rios, Marisa Rodriguez, Ryan Martinez, and Lydia Orr.

Mrs. Chapa was serenaded by the Mariachi and Grupo Folklorico Cascabel for her birthday.

Happy Birthday Mrs. Chapa!

Karina Pompa Makes Hole in One at STPGA Junior Golf Tournament

Sharyland High School Students Receive AP Scholar Awards

Cheer Clinic

Sharyland High School Students Honored by Mission Rotary Club

Mario Gonzalez, Katherine C. Torres, Kevin M. Schach, Yoelia Y. Nava and Hiram Burguete

During the month of October, the Mission Rotary Club recognized the Sharyland High school Special Olympics team for their out-standing participation and achievement in Special Olympics competitions. Rep-resenting Sharyland High School Special Olympics team were Samuel Lopez and Steven Navarro. For the past three years, Samuel and Steve have participated in many Area and State level competitions. They have competed in Bocce, Soccer, Bowling, Basketball and Track and Field. Samuel Lopez has participated in Special Olympics since elementary school. The athletes are looking forward to another year of training and competition. Coach R. Hernandez, Steven Navarro, Samuel

Lopez and Counselor, Elda Zendejas.SHS Cheerleaders held their annual Cheer Clinic on September 17th and had over 100 girls attend.


Health Care Professionals Volunteer to Speak at Sharyland High School

Librarian Nicole Cruz Gets Published

Sharyland FCCLA on Highway to Success for Recruitment

Zumba Party

After School Tutoring Available At The Enrichment Academy

Wreath Project

Groupo Folklorico Cascabel and Dance Instructor Monica Martinez held a Zumba Party fundraiser on October 1. The instructor who helped out with the event was local instructor Veronica Soto.

Three health care professionals visited Sharyland High School on Tuesday, September 13, 2011 to speak about stress management. Dr. Audrey Jones and Dr. Darryl Stinson of PCI (Preventative Care Institute) and Pamela Parson, Sharyland ISD Licensed Specialist in School Psychology, all volunteered their time. This presentation was the idea of Nicole Cruz and Janie Flores, the high school librarians. It developed based on last year’s “Finding Your Voice” speaker series off ered to Career Technology Education students. This series of lectures were very popular with both teachers and students so Cruz and Flores decided to come up with something similar for teachers. They hope to off er one session per month.“Knowing the increasing demands placed on teachers and faculty alike, we felt that keeping our staff in good health and great spirits would decrease needs for substitutes and help keep student morale high,” said Cruz. “We asked Mrs. Chapa if we could solicit outside health care professionals to speak on stress management.” Principal D. Chapa agreed that this would be a great idea and even attended the fi rst session. She said faculty and staff deal with a lot of stress that comes with EOC, TAKS, NCLB, AYP, etc. “Let’s also not forget the 3000+ students that depend on us to make a positive diff erence in their lives,” Chapa said.

Nicole Cruz, the district Lead Librarian and high school head librarian, was published in the summer edition of the Texas Library Journal. In her article, titled “Commitment and Service: Community Activism beyond the Library Walls”, she writes about the diff erent project that the district librarians have initiated in the past fi ve years. From donating DVDs and reading materials to the Ronald McDonald House in Harlingen, to raising money for the Make A Wish Organization by selling stars, Cruz and all the Sharyland ISD librarians demonstrate their dedication to their motto of “Commitment and Service.”

For those students who feel their recent grades in their progress reports aren’t where they want them to be, they should take advantage of The Enrich-ment Academy. TEA is run by ninth grade English teacher, Beatriz Solis who has been the coordina-tor of the after school tutoring for four years.“The Enrichment Academy is a great, and positive way to get extra help and support for all students,” said Solis.TEA is a new program; the tutoring sessions last year were only held for six weeks. Now it’s open for the whole school year in all subject areas for every grade level. Starting everyday at 4:15 pm and ending at 6:00pm, tutoring is held in the library. Students are also welcome to use the printers and computers for any other assignments. According to Solis, the 50 to 60 regularly attending students have improved their grades. “I can really tell tutoring has helped, instead of get-ting 69’s on my math homework, now I get 85’s,” said junior Esai Acevedo who has been attending tu-toring sessions twice a week since the second week of school.

Augustus Denham, Marlee Beasley, Tae Kyoung “Tammy” Kim, and Janett V. Zapata Dominguez

The Sharyland High School Staff voted and helped de-termine the Grand Champion of Interior Design Wreath Projects. There were also 3 wreaths that tied for run-ner up. The Grand Champion Wreath was done by Mar-lee Beasley, 11th grader. The Runners-Up are Augustus Denham, 11th Grade, Janett V. Zapata Dominguez, 11th Grade, and Tae Kyoung “Tammy” Kim, 11th Grade.The students created their wreaths in Interior Design classes of Mrs. Mary Jane Laing, instructor. They used their elements of good design; color, texture, space, form and line to create their projects.

At the beginning of the school year, Sharyland High School Family and Consumer Science (FCS) classes attended a presentation about Family Career and Community Leaders of America (FCCLA) at the Sharyland High School lecture hall. Local Offi cers presented a power point about important FCCLA programs and facts to the FCS classes. Pamphlets were given out that explained meetings, projects, and activities. The FCCLA “Deal or No Deal” game was played by answering fact questions about the FCCLA organization learned from the presentation. During the day approximately 499 students were given information to learn about FCCLA and how to become a part of it. These presentations were held in conjunction with Texas FCCLA First Annual Statewide Membership Day.


District-Region Choir Results Library Volunteers Cheerleaders Win UCA Leadership Award

New Student Organizations Recruit during FCCLA’s

Annual Club Fair

Diamonds Excel at Summer

Camp

Students Encouraged to Visit Go Center

Dual Enrollment: Getting Ahead of the Game

FCCLA held their 8th Annual Club Fair on Sep-tember 7th during all 3 lunch periods. Twenty organizations were represented. Among these, two new organizations began recruit-ing. Ms. Pattie Parker is the sponsor for S.T.O.R.M. (Story Telling Over Respective Me-diums). It’s a comic book club that addresses multiple forms of cartooning (Marvel, Manga, Yu-gi-oh, and Video Games). They have over 60 members. Mr. DeGarimore is sponsoring PEPPA (People’s Economic & Political Pros-perity of America). The group’s president, senior Samuel Garcia, came up with the idea of this organization because he is interested in politics and the economy and there was no organization that addressed these interests. Students interested in joining can visit Parker in room 149 and DeGarimore in Room 226.

Community volunteers Mr. and Mrs. Premus assist on Mondays and Tuesdays from 7a.m. to 11a.m. On Wednesdays, Mrs. Quintero volunteers from 12:30 until 4p.m. Mr. Premus enjoys helping out at Sharyland High School because of the students’ exemplary behavior. “There are masses of students in the morning and I have been pleasantly surprised by their good behavior,” said Mr. Premus. Also contributing their time are some eager students who, during free blocks, go to the library and tend to anything needed of them. During third block, student volunteer senior Joseph Choi enjoys doing anything that will help out the librarians. Helping with the organization of electrical wires, senior Ameera Asif, takes time off her fourth block class to be in the library. During fi fth block, senior Alfredo Fernandez, 12th grade works in a progressive manner. Although these volunteers are unpaid, they work just as hard as or harder than a paid employee, because for these volunteers helping out is a greater reward than money.

Four students placed in the All-District Choir and 2 were named alternates: Jasmine Gravador (Alto 2), Amy Manzewitsch (Alto 1), Mireya Reyes (Alto 1), Gabriel Galvan (Tenor 2), Gestel De Asis (Soprano 2, alt), Andrea Navarro (Alto 1, alt). The four who placed in the all-district choir competed again in the afternoon round and Jasmine Gravador (Alto 2) placed 3rd chair in the All-Region Choir.

Career Counselor Mrs. G. Ramirez and Liana Cadena (Go Center Secretary) encourage all students to visit the Go Center to begin preparing for their post secondary education. They are there to assist all students with college/career readiness, career exploration, fi nancial aid, scholarships, testing, transcripts and so much more. Students who want to talk with the various college representatives visiting each month need to go by the Go Center located in the Main Building. For more information, students can go to the Go Center website found in the Counselors tab on the high school homepage or call 580-5300 extension 1211.

Congratulations to all Varsity and JV Cheerleaders for doing an amazing job at camp! All girls attended UCA Cheer Camp at Texas State University in June. The girls received top honors at camp by receiving the UCA Leadership Award which is voted on by all camp participants. Ten girls earned All American title and have been invited to perform both in London and Houston. Varsity- First Place- Home Pom Routine, Camp Champs- Cheer, Camp Champs- Extreme RoutineJV- First Place- Home Pom Routine, Camp Champs- Cheer, Camp Champs- Extreme Routine

Congratulations to the entire Diamonds Dance Team and Coach Misty Thompson for their outstanding job at camp. The Diamonds attended the American Dance/Drill Team Camp in San Antonio August 2-4. The girls were evalu-ated against other Texas schools on their home routine and several dances they learned throughout the week. The Diamonds received several awards: Gussy Nell Davis Team of the Day Award, Gussy Nell Davis Offi cers of the Day Award, Gussy Nell Davis Team of the Week Award, Gussy Nell Davis Offi cers of the Week Award, Super Sweepstakes- Offi cers, Sweepstakes- Team, Special Cho-reography Overall Award- Home Routine and Best Overall Choreography- Offi cers.Diamonds Major, Lauren Vaughan received a very spe-cial Outstanding Performer Award. Nine girls were also selected as All American and have been invited to per-form in New York City at the Macy’s Thanksgiving Day Parade. These girls are Nicole Acosta, Sommer Gutierrez, Brianna Lopez, Lauren Vaughan, Alyssa Cavazos, Jazlyn Oyuela, Denisse Soto, Nanii Saenz, and Nanett Nissen.

Sharyland High School off ers many opportunities for advancement, one of these being early college credit opportunities. Duel Enrollment courses are off ered in the following subjects: English III, English IV, US History, US Government, Economics, College Algebra, Pre-Calculus, Psychology, Sociology, Art Appreciation, Chemistry, and Theatre/Drama Appreciation.The classes give students a taste of the college experience. Students can enter college as sophomores if the college/university they attend accepts these credits and if they earned enough. “The Dual Enrollment program is an excellent opportunity for high school students to experience high levels of academia. Parents and students alike should be aware that this is the most economical college credit they will ever earn,” said Robert DeGarimore who teaches US History.For a mere $50 per class, students can take these college courses on campus and save thousands that they can use towards college expenses after high school. On average, for a Texas public university, a student would save $500 per credit hour earned.


Boys Cross Country

Cross Country GirlsVolleyball 30-5A District Co-Leaders

Varsity Football Team Off to a Stellar Start

Varsity Girls are ranked one of the best in the Valley. They had a strong showing at the UTSA meet where they placed 4th out of 36 teams from Valley, San Antonio, Austin, and Laredo schools. They also placed 6th at the McNeil Invite in Round Rock out of 32 teams with a little steeper competition. District will be tough. Palmview is the biggest competition at the District Meet and Edinburg is the biggest competition at the Regional Meet. The Valley schools have strong cross country programs this year. It will be a fi ght to the fi nish! The JV team is very strong and has had a strong showing in every meet this season. The freshmen team is also coming along with a lot of young kids. They are striving to win all three divisions at District. (October 22 @ Palmview HS).

Congratulations to the Boys Varsity Cross Country Team and Head Coach Joe Gonzalez who won their fi rst meet at the Nikki Rowe Invitational. The team was able to score 11 personal records. Individual results are as follows: Jose Angel Gonzalez 1st, Alexis Guerrero 2nd, Luis Nunez 6th, Gabriel Rodriguez 7th, Gabriel De los Rios 10th, Danny Mills 14th, Hiram Garcia 16th, and Ryan Martinez 17th. They also won the RGV Classic Invitational. The Rattlers ran away with the team title with 68 points to the second place team with 105 points. The team was able to obtain 17 personal records. Individual results are as follows: Jose Angel Gonzalez 4th, Alexis Guerrero 5th, Gabriel Rodriguez 24th, Luis Nunez 29th, Gabriel De los Rios 32nd, Danny Mills 40th. At the UTSA Invitational, they received 5th place in the Gold Division and at the McNeill Invitational they were 10th. The Rattlers are now ranked number one in the Valley.

The varsity volleyball team has had an outstanding season. At one point, they had moved up to 15th place on the Texas Girls Coaches Association (TGCA) State Volleyball Poll. The team is ready to go far into the playoff s.

The varsity football team started 6-0, 3-0 in district including a thrilling win against the Donna Redskins (17-15) on September 30. They also beat Corpus Christi Flour Bluff (48-18), the only team they lost to in last year’s regular season. After a loss against Memorial, the team looks to fi nish strong heading into the playoff s.

Caption: (Standing) Caroline Honrubia, Elise Smith, Laura Cantu, Hermonie (Yamyo) Monie, Sidra Salinas, Kaylee Cross, Laura Eberly, and Laura Trevino. (Sitting) Jenna Garza, Sofi a Perez, Kimberly Cross, and Sara Ramon.

PrincipalLeticia Leal

THE RATTLER REVIEW AT SHARYLAND NORTH JR. HIGH SCHOOL

Sharyland North earns 2011 Blue Ribbon Honors

“Colonial Tours” Curriculum Night Splatter Art

Texas Generation Week

Texas History

SPTSO

2011-2012 Student Council Offi cers

Even though summer vacations may be long over, students in Miss Tamez’ 8th grade social studies class, are still getting their fi ll of traveling! Like other Social Studies classes in the 8th grade, Miss Tamez and her class have been working on creating “Colonial Booths” or small displays in which students are trying to advertise one of the Thirteen Original Colonies. The students had about four days to come up with a design and the information any new colonist would want to have about their new homeland: Where is it located, why was the colony founded, who was it founded by, the occupation/economy of the colony, and what year the colony was founded. As the students proudly displayed their booths in class and later in the library, they learned a valuable lesson about teamwork, advertising, and about life in colonial America.

This year we met in the gymnasiums instead of the teachers rooms. We had a great turn out!

These students were winners of the SPTSO Movie Card drawing because their parents joined during Early Registration.

North is one of 26 Texas schools to win the prestigious 2011 Blue Ribbon Schools award from the U.S. Department of Education. This program has recognized more than 6,500 of America’s most successful schools, including about 500 Texas schools, since its creation in 1982. The Blue Ribbon Schools Program honors public and private elementary, middle and high schools. The schools are selected based on one of two criteria: schools that dramatically improve student performance to high levels on state tests; schools whose students achieve in the top 10 percent of their state on state tests. The nominated public schools were recommended by a Texas Education Agency committee that examined student achievement statistics for the more than 8,000 public school and charter campuses in the state. The schools selected have demonstrated success in closing the achievement gap and each school has an economically disadvantaged population of 40 percent or greater. Schools nominated by TEA for the award serve as models of best practices for schools across the state. The award-winning schools will be recognized at the Blue Ribbon School conference Nov. 14-15 at the Washington, D.C. Omni Shoreham Hotel.

Mrs. J. Garza’s Art II students, Baldemar Perez, Juan Garces, Devin Wise, and Erich Kaiser created décor for curriculum night using a method called action painting or splatter painting. The art II classes use acrylic paint, watercolors, clay, wire, charcoal, pastels, and pencil to create a wide variety of works. The class is designed to familiarize the students with a broad spectrum of mediums, as well as a diverse group of artists and art history.

Student Council was organized to provide a forum for student expression, provide orderly direction of school activities, and develop attitudes and practices in good citizenship. Our goal this year is to become more active within the community. Both 7th and 8th grade offi cers are excited over this upcoming school year and hope to accomplish many service projects.

Texas Generation Week, formally known as Education Go Get It Week, is a week specifi cally set aside to promote College awareness. Each homeroom created posters promoting the college of their choice. These four classes were the winners.

Mitzy Cuevas created this excellent project that came about as a result of studying the Native Texans. Each student was asked to create a presentation on a Native Texan Tribe and they could use whatever medium they wanted for their presentation.

L to R: Kimberly Rios, Alejandro Rodriguez, Andres Galvan, Lizette Guerrero, Veronica Rodriguez, Arlene Smith, Kellie Woodin, Reeanna De Leon, Phillip Gonzalez, Joseph Lozano.

Dazzler awards include the following: American Dance & Drill Team Gussie Nell Davis Award, 2011 ADTS Junior All Americans- Jennifer Shepherd, Raelene Vela, Alexa Martinez, Natalia Mendoza, Victoria Vela and Mayela Gomez. ADTS Junior Kick Company Members included Jennifer Shepherd and Victoria Vela. The 2011 ADTS Miss High Kick Queen was Raelene Vela. The 2011 ADTS Outstanding Performance Award was presented to Jennifer Shepherd. The girls also received individual ribbons daily based on their individual skills, dance technique and overall execution of routines learned. The Dazzlers Dance Team is under the direction of Cyndee Julian and the team looks forward to preparing for competition season this fall and winter. The 2011-2012 Dazzlers Dance Team members are: Jennifer Shepherd-Major, Raelene Vela- Captain, Alexa Martinez- 1st Lieutenant, Natalia Mendoza- 2nd Lieutenant, Marla Youngblood- 7th Grade Captain, Victoria Vela, Shaleigh Shorts, Lizbeth Selvera, Alessandra Romero, Mayela Gomez, Megan Davis, Amanda Barajas and Abigail Alvarez.

THE RATTLER REVIEW AT SHARYLAND NORTH JR. HIGH SCHOOL

Spanish Class Celebrates September 16

North Cheerleaders Get Fired Up at UCA Summer Camp!

IPC Lab

Chess Rules!

Theatre Arts

Sharyland Dazzlers Shine at ADTS Summer Camp

New Science Software

Not only are there 39 students who signed up for the Chess Team, but many more come to the library before school, during lunch, and after school to enjoy the complexities of this great game.

IPC students in Ms. Bhatti’s class were able to understand, demonstrate, and apply the concept of Law of Conservation of Mass by doing a lab activity. The students measured the mass of an empty coke bottle and cap with water & alka-seltzer tablet before and after mixing. They also measured the mass of ice & melted ice. The results concluded that total mass stayed the same before and after a chemical or physical change and proved the Law of Conservation of Mass which states that mass can not be created nor destroyed.

Sharyland ISD adopted STEMscopes which is an offi cially approved supplemental science curriculum for Texas in 5-8 grade. STEMscopes is a comprehensive online curriculum program that provides hands-on activities, plus intervention and acceleration materials for teachers to teach the newly adopted science Texas Essential Knowledge and Skills (TEKS).

Mrs. Hinojosa’s Spanish Classes created posters to present their understanding of Mexico’s Independence Day.

Mrs. Berry’s Theatre Production students dressed up to entertain the parents at the Curriculum Night on September 8th.

The North Cheerleaders received the 2011 UCA Camp Champ Cheer 1st Place Trophy, 2nd Place Xtreme Routine Trophy, Home Pom Dance 2nd Place Trophy, six superior ribbons and the UCA Spirit Stick Award. Kailee Serna, Julissa Mata, Malaya Pistokache and Chloe Cavazos were selected by the UCA Staff to be 2011 UCA All American Cheerleaders. The North 8th Grade Cheerleaders are under the direction of Cyndee Julian and include: Kailee Serna- 8th Grade Captain, Deandra Garza, Desiree Garza, Alex Trevino, Julissa Mata, Bianca Viera, Kassy Garcia, Kayla Rodriguez and Veronica Rodriguez. The North 7th Grade Cheerleaders are under the direction of Ellie Salinas and include: Malaya Pistokache- 7th Grade Captain, Daylann Garza- 8th Grade Co-Captain, Makayla Garza, Arlene Smith, Chloe Cavazos, Brianna Garcia, Karina Garcia, Savannah James, Karina Lopez and Victoria Elizondo.

PrincipalRosa O’Donnell

THE RATTLER REVIEW AT ROMULO D. MARTINEZ ELEMENTARY

SPTSO Students of the Month Pastries with Grandparents

SPTSO Offi cers

Librarian

STAAR Test for the Next Generation

Education- Go Get it Week

It was “Education- Go Get it Week” at R. D. Mar-tinez from September 26th-30th. All the hallways were displayed with colors and information about college/universities. Congratulations to the winning grade levels of “Go Get it Week”! Kinder – 1st Place; 2nd Grade – 2nd Place; and 1st Grade – 3rd Place. Everyone’s eff orts are notable and may bring a dream of future education and career planning to our students.

R. D. Martinez would like to introduce their new Librarian Mrs. Veronica Baca. She is working diligently to make the library a reading haven for the students. She has been honored by Sam Houston State University and has been selected to be the President of the LSSA (Library Science Students Association). Congratulations Mrs. Baca and Keep up the Good Work!

“Pastries with Grandpar-ents” was a great success! We even had a great grand-mother come to our event. Grandparents are the roots of a family, their children are the branches and the grand-children are the fruit. Roles change as time goes by, but for now, we continue to nourish their fruit so that one day, the fruit will take its turn to become strong foundation/roots of their own. This gave the students of our school an opportu-nity to show their love and also learn patience, under-standing and respect for the elderly. It was a perfect time to observe communication between generations and make memories.

The following students were selected as SPSTO Students of the Month of September. Pictured bottom to top are: 1st row: Vania Morales, Rogelio Naranjo, Dominique Marquez, Alyssa Perez and Samuel Candelas.2nd row: Savannah Hernandez, Daniel Azucar, Yareni Morin, Brooklyn Barnes, Paola Villareal, Ana Cecilia Cabrera, Yamili Martinez. 3rd row: Miguel Pena, Anna Lerma, Celeste Martinez, Wendy Linquist, Melissa Vaughn, Gladys Hernandez, Omar Arciniega, Leonardo Rivas. 4th row: Sky Chen, Britteny Gonzalez, Maria Garza, Emily Rendon, Katie Watson, Ronaldo Cruz, Kevin Alvarado, Nikko Barao.Not pictured are: Luis Hernandez, Ailany Morin, Patricio Granados and Alexa Greene.

Ms. Rosa O’Donnell – Principal at R. D. Martinez held an informative session for our parents on the “STAAR Test for the Next Generation”. The session focused on diff erences between the STAAR and the TAKS, changes being made in the curriculum to prepare the students to perform with excellence and what parents can do to help and support for our star students. There were two sessions on September 27th at 8:00 am and 6:00 pm.

R. D. Martinez is proud of their new SPSTO offi cers for the 2011-12 school year. We would like to wish them the very best and a rocking year. They are pictured as follows from left to right: Luz Hinojosa- Treasurer, Melissa Silva – Vice President, Ivonne Sanchez – President, Veronica Regener – Box Tops Coordinator, Lupita Ramirez – Parliamentarian, Ruth Munoz- Meeting Coordinator. Not pictured are Angie Ortega – Secretary, Karol Quinlan- Box Tops Coordinator.

PrincipalPamela L. Montalvo

THE RATTLER REVIEW AT JOHN H. SHARY ELEMENTARY

Shary Pride!Shary Pride!

To celebrate International Handwashing Week, Captain Soap made a visit to the Pre-K and Kinder classrooms. She explained why it is important to wash hands properly and keep those germs away.

These proud grandchildren visit with their grandparents during lunchtime and learn about the importance of family and the heri-tage of their family tree.

College is in the future for these excited Kindergarten students! During Genera-tion Texas Week, students were made aware that col-lege is an important part of their educational future.

What a turnout for Grandpar-ents’ Day at Shary Elementary! Many posed for a photo taken by our SPTSO offi cers which was given as a gift to commemorate the special day.

Dies y seis de septembre was celebrated with fun, food, and observance of Hispanic culture throughout the school. Many took part in the festivities!

This motivational speaker, Master Jason Solis, had these stu-dents on their feet demonstrating how to focus their energy and concentration on learning.

Jordan De La Rosa presented this real-istic rattler statue to our principal, Mrs. Montalvo. He added, “The mighty rattler represents our pride and dedi-cation to everything we do at John H. Shary Elementary.”

Manuel Munoz, Xin H. Ooi, and Andrew Moss were the fi rst students recognized for reading over a million words and earning over 100 AR points. Summer reading does have its benefi ts!

Teachers are raising the level of instruction, increasing rigor, and ensuring relevance through collaborative team planning.

Does air take up space? What is the exact weight of this object? These curious stu-dents are trying to fi nd out the answers fi rst-hand. Science is really cool!

We are “exemplary” and our pride is showing! The colorful display on the fence in front of the school is a reminder of our hard work and dedication to excellence.

These ten smiling Shary teachers received a basket of good-ies and a $100.00 gift card courtesy of Walmart at Palmhurst. The Teacher Rewards program awards more than 45,000 educators, giving $4.5 million to schools across the nation. Thank you for your support.

So many students, parents, and staff came out to support Sharyland’s 5K Run/Walk for Health! Shary Elementary won the award for having the most par-ticipation from our school with many competing in the event.

Mobis, Elmos, and learning! Oh, my! These young students demonstrate the use of technology in their lessons with the latest equipment.

Together for Health! Millionaire Readers

Family Heritage

Young Techies

Scientifi c Conclusions

Teacher Reward Program

Important Lesson

Captain Soap to the Rescue!

Mighty Rattler Pride!

Hispanic Heritage

Celebration!

Future Collegians

Grandparents’ Day

Rigor and Relevance

PrincipalAnthony Limon

THE RATTLER REVIEW AT HARRY SHIMOTSU ELEMENTARY

Look at all of the bikes! Many Shimotsu students strive for a healthy start to their day by riding their bikes to school.

On September 12th, grandparents of Shimotsu students enjoyed breakfast and a program of music and poetry performed by staff and students. Led by their grandchildren, the grandparents visited classrooms to celebrate their special day.

Harry Shimotsu Elementary held Hispanic Heritage Night from 6 – 8 p.m. on Friday, September 16th. The Parent/Teacher Organization, SPTSO, planned the event to include a presentation of folkloric dance by the Sharyland High School Ballet Folklórico Troupe, authentic food, music from Latin America, crafts, a piñata and face painting. Many students and parents came in costume. It was a wonderful celebration for all attendees!

Second grade teacher, Janet Arredondo, chats with parents and welcomes students to her classroom on Meet the Teacher Night.

Mr. McDonald presented to Shimotsu 4th graders on “May the Fours Be with You”. Students learned from the entertaining presentation which involved the group using a variety of writing strategies.

Representative Sergio Muñoz, Jr. of the Texas House of Representatives visited Shimotsu’s fi rst graders to celebrate Constitution Day. He talked about the importance of the Constitution as the guiding document for our freedom.

WOW! Shimotsu’s fi rst assembly featured ALL of the trophies won by Shimotsu students during the four years since the school opened its doors. Students were very motivated to add to the numerous trophies when they were revealed at the assembly!

Trophies

Constitution Day

Meet the Teacher Night

Grandparents’ Day

Bikes

Hispanic Heritage Night

May the Fours Be With You

Nancy Linebaugh, Sophia Hernandez, Serigo Munoz Jr. State Rep., Scott Owings, SISD Superintendent & Cindy Medina

PrincipalKaren Meadors

THE RATTLER REVIEW AT DONNA WERNECKE ELEMENTARY

New Staff

Dieciséis de Septiembre

College and Career Week

Teach Like Your Hair’s on Fire

Intramural Sports League

Box Top Collection Contest

Student Council

Mrs. Keller’s Gardening Club held a Box Top collection contest. Mrs. Campbell’s class and Mrs. Salinas class were the winners! The entire school collected 2,857 box tops. Way to go Wernecke students!

Donna Wernecke Elementary School celebrated College and Career Week the last week of September. Pre-kinder – 2nd grade classes learned about diff erent careers on wheels and our 3rd-6th graders enjoyed listening to a variety of speakers on Career Day. A big thank you to all our presenters!

Wernecke students and staff celebrated our Hispanic heritage by observing dieciséis de septiembre.

The Donna Wernecke fl ag football team participated in the fi rst year in Sharyland’s elementary intramural sports league game. Way to go team!

Wernecke Elementary welcomes our new staff members: Sandra Vela, Marleen Bautista, Rachel Montgomery, Joe Carranza, and Carol Rodriguez.

Donna Wernecke Elementary students listened to speeches and voted in the annual Student Council elections. Congratulations to our newly elected offi cers!

Wernecke teachers got off to a great start this year after reading the book, “Teach Like Your Hair’s on Fire”, by Rafe Esquith.

Why is Sharyland ISD proposing a second High School?Enrollment at the High School is expected to reach over 3100 this school year. In the 2-3 year time period it will take to have a bond proposition, develop plans and con-struct a second high school, the current campus could be over 3400-3600 students.

Where would a new high school be located?The district has already acquired a 91- acre site at 6½ mile north on Shary Road.

When would the new school open?It is anticipated to open in the Fall of 2014.

What would be the attendance zones be for the two High Schools?Since the District currently has 2 junior highs, plans are to utilize the same attendance zones, with students zoned to North Junior High attending the new high school cam-pus, and students zoned to B.L. Gray Junior High attending the current high school campus.

How many students would attend each school?Initial construction will build a school for 1700 students, with core areas (cafeteria, library, etc.) for 2500 students. In this way, if we continue to grow, additional class-rooms can be added in the future, with the core areas already in place. The fi rst year, the new campus would house only 9th -11th graders from the Sharyland North Junior High Zone (approximately 1,350 students). The next year the school would expand to house seniors. At current enrollment growth rates, at the time the 2nd school would become four grade levels, both campuses could be approximately 1700 students.

What is the anticipated cost of the High School?Sharyland ISD always endeavors to construct cost-effi cient facilities; the current esti-mate for the high school is $55 million. We can keep the initial cost and tax rate down by building the core areas for the future; then expanding classroom wings as the population grows.

Would the new school have the same programs and facilities?Programs at high school would be duplicated, including programs such as Agriculture and JROTC.

Would the new high school have its own football stadium?No. The two schools will share the current stadium. The new school would have prac-tice facilities and fi eld house. It would also have competition soccer, baseball and softball fi elds. This issue was discussed a couple of years ago, with the decision being made to upgrade the current stadium with artifi cial turf and new lighting.

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Age 65 and Over: School Taxes are frozen... No Additional Taxes (with exemption)

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