AISD Board honors Tuskegee Airmen
Transcription
AISD Board honors Tuskegee Airmen
Inside Aldine Winter 2010 Vol. 33, No. 2 Discover News, Information and More about Aldine ISD’s Schools Fall SpoRts Recap A number of Aldine ISD varsity athletic programs qualified for the playoffs during the fall season. Also read about AISD high school athletes who earned scholarships during the fall semester. Read the story on page 4 Aldine ISD earns best practices designation from TEA The Texas Education Agency (TEA) recently deemed Aldine ISD’s Collaborative Monitoring and Intervention Model program a Best Practice. 14910 ALDINE WESTFIELD ROAD HOUSTON, TEXAS 77032-3099 ALDINE INDEPENDENT SCHOOL DISTRICT NONPROFIT ORG. CARRIER ROUTE PRESORT U.S. POSTAGE PAID HOUSTON, TX PERMIT NO. 5194 TEA recently developed its Best Practices Clearinghouse in an effort to collect all the great strategies school district across Texas are using to educate students and share strategies with other school districts. The strategies had to be evidencebased for effectiveness. TEA asked AISD to submit a best practice since the district won the Broad Prize for Urban Education in 2009. The district obliged and submitted its Collaborative Monitoring and Intervention Model, which includes how Aldine schools monitor student performance data, the structures in place to intervene when students need help, a model for intervention when they need additional assistance, a model for intensive intervention when schools need support for struggling students, as well as how the district traines and provides additional staff to support interventions. TEA was impressed with the program and sent the district a plaque in recognition of its program being a best practice. AISD earns state’s highest fiscal accountability rating Aldine Independent School District, for an eigth consecutive year, received a rating of “Superior Achievement” under Schools FIRST (Financial Accountability Rating System of Texas). The Superior Achievement rating is the state’s highest, demonstrating the quality of Aldine ISD’s financial management and reporting system. This rating is based on data from the 2008-09 school year. AISD Board honors Tuskegee Airmen During the Oct. 26 Board meeting, Aldine ISD Trustees and the Aldine School District held a special recognition program for members of General Benjamin Oliver Davis Jr.’s family and members of the Tuskegee Airmen who traveled from across the country to attend the special event. AISD Board President Dr. Alton Smith announced to the group that in July, district Trustees voted unanimously to name the new high school and 9th grade school after Air Force General Benjamin Oliver Davis Jr., who was the first commander of the Tuskegee Airmen, the military’s first African-American air combat unit. He was also the first African-American to become a general in the Air Force. His combat record and that of the unit he led have been credited with playing a major role in prompting the integration of the armed services after World War II. In 1970, after retiring from the Air Force, he supervised the federal sky marshal program that was designed to quell a rash of airliner hijackings. In 1971, he was named an assistant secretary of transportation. At the time of his Air Force retirement, he was a Lieutenant General wearing three stars and was the senior black officer of the armed forces. In 1998, President Bill Clinton awarded Davis his fourth star, advancing him to full general. He served with distinction. Davis died in 2002 at the age of 89. Smith then recognized members of Da- Pictured are members of the Tuskegee Airmen, board members, and members of the administrative team as they posed with the special visitors. vis’ family who were in attendance, members of the Tuskegee Airmen who made the trip to Aldine, and sponsors from Continental Airlines, Houston Airport System, InvesTex Credit Union and H.E.B. who helped make the Airmen’s visit possible. After the audience viewed a video presentation that summarized the history and legacy of the Airmen, which was provided by social studies program directors Deborah Johnson and Shirley Worden, Ben Wilson, assistant superintendent of community and governmental relations, asked for a moment of silence to recognize the many Airmen who had previously visited Aldine ISD students over the years who have passed away. Wilson then introduced Dr. Alan Gropman, a distinguished professor of National Security Policy at the Industrial College of the Armed Forces, National Defense University. Over the years, Gropman wrote speeches used by President Clinton and President George W. Bush as they honored Davis. He also wrote Davis’ distinguished biography. Gropman shared memories of Davis and the key role he played Continued on page 3 Dedication ceremony held at Lewis Middle School Family has always been important to Vernon and Kathy Lewis, and on Sunday, Oct. 24, members of their immediate family and Aldine friends and former colleagues gathered to celebrate the naming of Lewis Middle School in their honor. Vernon and Kathy Lewis dedicated 73 years of service to students and staff members in Aldine ISD. They both began their Aldine journey in 1969, with Vernon ending his journey in 2006 after 38 years of dedicated service, and Kathy ending her journey in 2007 after 35 years of dedicated service. Vernon served in a variety of capacities during his Aldine ISD tenure. He began as a teacher, served as an assistant principal (Eisenhower High School), principal (Teague Middle School and Aldine High School), executive director of secondary schools, the Nimitz area superintendent and finally as assistant superintendent of administration. During her 35 years of service to the district, Kathy served as a teacher at MacArthur High School and Nimitz High School, a special education counselor for the district and as a regular education counselor at Teague Middle School from 1983 until her retirement in 2007. During their remarks, both thanked their family members and the number of friends and colleagues they met during their Aldine years. “Thank you for your steadfastness, compassion, guidance and uncondi- Joining Vernon and Kathy Lewis (center) in the photo were Aldine ISD board members and Superintendent Dr. Wanda Bamberg. tional love,” Kathy said to her many Continued on page 4 Aldine ISD Board reorganizes The AISD Board of Education reorganized during its Nov. 16 meeting. The board’s nominating committee, chaired by Trustee Rick Ogden, named Rose Avalos as president, Rick Ogden as vice-president, Merlin Griggs as secretary and Marine Jones as assistant secretary. Trustees Steve Mead, Dr. Viola M. Garcia and Dr. Alton Smith will serve as members. Smith, who served as president for the past year handed the gavel to Avalos during the meeting. Avalos then assigned trustees to the board’s standing committees. The policy revisions committee will be chaired by Jones and will consist of Ogden and Smith. The site committee will be chaired by Smith and will consist of Griggs and Mead. The school names committee will be chaired by Griggs and will consist of Garcia and Ogden. The nominating committee will be chaired by Mead and will consist of Smith and Garcia. The selection of new board members committee will be chaired by Garcia and will consist of Jones and Ogden. Before handing the gavel over to Avalos, Smith thanked his fellow board members for their support during his tenure and they in turn thanked him for his service and leadership during his tenure as president of the Board. School board members are unpaid elected officials who represent the community the district serves. Outgoing President Dr. Alton Smith, handed over the gavel to incoming President Rose Avalos during the Nov. 16 meeting of the Aldine ISD Board of Trustees. Inside Aldine Winter 2010 Page 2 Schools & Community Legislative Representatives and district officials discussed AISD’s financial challenges in December. AISD volunteers ‘Reach Out to Dropouts’ Close to 550 volunteers in Aldine ISD hit the streets bright and early on Saturday, Sept. 11, to encourage dropouts to return to school during the annual Reach Out to Dropouts walk event. Dear Readers: I know that all of you are looking forward to a well-deserved break over the next two weeks. This is a wonderful time of year to enjoy friends and family, and to create lasting memories for our children. We have many things to celebrate in Aldine ISD this season, including earning a “Superior Achievement” rating from Schools FIRST, which is the state’s highest financial rating. The accomplishment demonstrates the quality of our financial management and reporting system, and shows that we are good stewards of taxpayers’ money even as we face a budget shortfall. We have also received good news from the state comptroller’s FAST report where we received four and one half stars out of five. This report, which is the first of its kind in Texas, attempts to rate school districts for using money efficiently and improving student outcomes on TAKS tests. The rating again shows that we are good stewards of our taxpayer’s money. Because the majority of our students are economically disadvantaged, it does take additional time and money to ensure their success compared with students from higher income families. For example, in 2008-2009, the district spent $426 more per student than we received in state and local revenue. This information represents the great challenges we have ahead to make sure our students continue to be successful. School districts have two choices to alleviate budget shortfalls: 1) cut spending and 2) raise more money by asking taxpayers to approve additional taxes. We have reduced spending by more than $40 million by placing more students in classes, cutting five magnet school programs, cutting department budgets by 25 percent, implementing a hiring freeze, combining summer school programs and reducing after school transportation. In August, we asked voters to approve raising taxes. A taxpayer with a home valued at $50,000 would have seen an annual tax increase of $45.50 or approximately 13 cents a day. A home valued at $100,000 would have seen an annual tax increase of $110.50 or approximately 30 cents a day. However, voters said no to higher taxes in Aldine ISD. Currently, Aldine taxpayers pay the lowest taxes in the region next to Houston ISD. The tax rate continues to be $1.17. The state is also facing a budget shortfall possibly as high as $25 billion. And since public education is 44% of the total state budget, we have been told to expect less state revenue over the next two years. Since at this time we don’t know the actual amount of the state reduction, we are planning to include several additional cuts that can be implemented when it is necessary. Of course, reducing the budget means reducing services that support teaching and learning. The challenges we face make the decisions made in the 82nd Legislative session more important than ever. We have already been communicating with state legislators to let them know how the proposed reduced state revenue will impact the district. I urge you to follow the legislative proceedings in January and contact your state representatives and me with your questions and concerns regarding school finance. Sincerely, Wanda Bamberg, Ed. D. Superintendent of Schools The effort attracted 543 volunteers from across the district. They gathered at six Aldine ISD schools, Aldine Senior High School, Carver High School, Eisenhower Senior High School, Hall Center for Education, MacArthur Senior High School and Nimitz Senior High School, for a briefing prior to hitting the streets to encourage dropouts to return to school. Volunteers made 260 student and/ or parent contacts, and left door hangers at another 219 homes with information on how students can go about re-enrolling in school. On the day of the walk, 30 students began the en-rollment process, another 29 returned to school, and 36 students made a commitment to return to school. Aldine ISD board members, along with Superintendent Dr. Wanda Bamberg, cabinet members, AISD principals, teachers and community volunteers gave of their time on Sept. 11 to participate in the annual Reach Out to Dropouts walk event. Members of the Aldine ISD Board of Education, community members and Superintendent Dr. Bamberg took part in the event. Homework Policy Aldine ISD believes homework is a necessary part of each pupil’s educational program. Each student must be expected to spend some time in addition to scheduled class instruction to achieve satisfactory work. Some assignments are long-range in nature and require planned study time for completion. The term “homework” also includes home study assignments in which no written work is required. Students should plan to spend between an hour (intermediate, middle school students) to 90 minutes (high school students) each night in preparing for the next day’s classes and/or reviewing. The district’s homework policy for all grade levels can be found in the Parent/Student Handbook or online at www.aldine.k12.tx.us. A Day Made Better Campaign honors elementary teachers ASF receives donations AISD elementary teachers Treneka Cothron and Lita Killebrew received huge surprises on October 5 as representatives from two OfficeMax store locations visited their schools with more than $1,000 worth of supplies each. Cothron, of Conley Elementary School, and Killebrew, of Kujawa Elementary School, were two of 1,000 teachers at 1,000 schools who were selected by their principals to be recognized as part of “A Day Made Better,” OfficeMax’s national cause campaign facilitated in partnership with nonprofit Adopt-A-Classroom to end teacher-funded classrooms. OfficeMax worked with Adopt-AClassroom to identify schools and teachers in need across the United States. The principals were then asked to nominate one teacher who exemplified passion, dedication and innovation in the classroom. Principal Katy Roede of Conley Elementary School nominated Cothron. “Ms. Cothron is dedicated to produce a well-rounded child,” said Roede. “She is chairperson of the cheerleaders and pep squad and is the founding chairperson of our T.I.E. Guys organization that provides boys with skills that will help them as they mature and develop into young men. “She is an exemplary educator who uses her own time and money to help her students achieve.” Killebrew was nominated by Principal Debra Thomas of Kujawa Elementary School. “Mrs. Killebrew is a dedicated teacher who brings a lot of energy to her classroom,” said Thomas. “She is loved by her students and respected by her peers. We are lucky to have her.” The boxes were filled with supplies containing colors, markers, pens, folders, binders, clips, Kleenex, and scissors. Big-ticket items included a Sony Cyber–Shot DSC-750 7.2 megapixel camera, an Epson Stylus NX200 All-in-One Printer, an OfficeMax Zeal Leather Task Chair, and a Brother P-Touch 80 Labeler. The box also included a highly valued item on campuses: five reams of photocopying paper. Kujawa Elementary teacher Lita Killebrew (with flowers) poses with Principal Debra Thomas, and OfficeMax store manager Marianne Alcorn. Conley Elementary principal Katy Roede (far left) and teacher Treneka Cothron (far right) stand with Raul Herrera and his OfficeMax staff. “This was another teachable moment. This honor is a real-world example of what I tell my students daily: You never know who is watching and hard work does pay off in the end. I am truly appreciative,” said Cothron. Killebrew was caught off guard when she and her class arrived at the campus library and saw her principal and fellow fourth-grade teachers assembled along with two representatives from OfficeMax. “What a wonderful honor,” Killebrew said. “I don’t know what to say. I want to thank OfficeMax and Mrs. Thomas for nominating me. We will put these supplies to good use.” OfficeMax and Adopt-A-Classroom developed the campaign to provide economic relief to teachers and encourage national support of schools. According to a 2009 OfficeMax survey and a National Education Association survey in 2005, teachers spend on average $1,000 of their own money each year to offset school budget shortfalls and ensure their students have the necessary classroom resources for learning. Raul Herrera, OfficeMax manager of the FM 1960 store location, said he and his staff were proud and happy to help teachers and therefore students. “We’re all proud to be a part of OfficeMax’s A Day Made Better campaign,” said Herrera. “I know of at least 20 teachers in the area who were honored. These teachers go above and beyond the call of duty. This is a great opportunity to recognize their hard work and dedication as well as to help them with much needed classroom supplies.” Marianne Alcorn, the store manager of The Woodlands location, echoed her cohort’s sentiments. “We at OfficeMax know teachers dig into their own wallets to purchase supplies for their students and their classrooms,” Alcorn said. “This is our way of saying thank you for the wonderful job teachers across the Houston area, Texas and the nation do in educating our children. We are happy to recognize them for the vital role they play in our nation.” For more information about A Day Made Better or how you can help schools and teachers, visit www. adaymadebetter.com. During the fall semester, the Aldine Scholarship Foundation received two large monetary donations. The Associated Masonry Contractors of Houston (AMCH) donated $2,500 to ASF, while Aldine ISD and Lone Star College-North Harris each donated $10,000 to the scholarship foundation. Dr. Archie Blanson, Aldine ISD’s deputy superintendent, accepted the award when he attended a short presentation about the economic and scholastic advantages of masonry construction for school districts. “The AMCH shares a common goal with the administrations of all Houston-area school districts: providing the best education possible for our children,” said Don Vernon, AMCH executive director. “The masonry industry is committed to building solidly-constructed school buildings designed to provide the best educational environment. That’s why we want to help school administrators become aware of the strength, safety, and value for taxpayers that masonry walls bring to school construction.” AISD and Lone Star College-North Harris made their donations to ASF during the September Board of Education meeting. CeCe Sutphen represented Lone Star College-North Harris during the check presentation, while Dr. Keith Clark, assistant superintendent of finance, made the presentation on behalf of Aldine ISD. ASF board member Dr. Charlotte Davis accepted the $20,000 check on behalf of ASF. Dr. Blanson stands with Blake Revels, left, and Jason Randolph, right, of AMCH. Inside Aldine Winter 2010 Page 3 State and Aldine ISD graduation and promotion requirements Aldine ISD wants to make sure parents and guardians are kept informed of what is required of their children to graduate and be able to participate (walk) in their respective graduation ceremonies. Additionally, they also need to be informed of promotion requirements from one grade level to the next. With that in mind, Inside Aldine will publish these requirements in each edition beginning with the Back To School edition. High School Level Below are the state and district requirements AISD seniors must meet to graduate (receive a diploma) and participate (walk) in graduation ceremonies. To receive a diploma in Aldine ISD, students must: • Complete all the necessary coursework for graduation. • Earn the required number of credits. • Pass ALL parts of the exit level Texas Assessment of Knowledge and Skills (TAKS) test. The exit level TAKS includes four subject areas: English language arts, math, science and social studies. The exit level TAKS test is given in the spring of the students’ junior year (11th grade) of high school. The students will be given multiple chances to pass all parts of the test. When the students pass all parts of the test, they will have fulfilled the testing requirement for graduation. A complete list of graduation requirements can be found in the High School Planning Guide or in the counseling office at the high school campus. Elementary School Level In order for students to be promoted at the elementary level, students must meet all of the following criteria: • Students must complete the requirements for reading and math with an average of 70 or above. • Students in third grade must pass the Reading part of the TAKS test. Intermediate and Middle School Level In order for students to be promoted at the intermediate and middle school levels, students must meet all of the following criteria: • Students must achieve an overall average of 70 or better in each of the following courses: English, reading, math, science and social studies. • Students in fifth and eighth grades must pass the Reading and Math parts of the TAKS test. Aldine’s Vision Produce the Nation’s Best Our Mission We exist to prepare each student academically and socially to be a: • critical thinker; • problem solver; and • responsible and productive citizen. Schools & Community The 2010-11 Leadership Aldine class held the first of their monthly meetings in September. Free books for students as ReadMobile stops at Hinojosa The We Give Books ReadMobile visited students at Hinojosa EC/PK Center on Nov. 2 and provided them each with a free book to take home. Representatives from the campaign encouraged students to read and even spent some time with them reading “Courduroy” by Don Freeman. The students recited key words as they followed the adventures of a talking teddy bear named Courduroy. Hinojosa is one of the many schools in Texas the We Give Books ReadMobile has visited this school year. The group was on a campaign to give away more than 30,000 books in 30 days to children. The statewide “We Give Books” campaign is a major effort by the Pearson Foundation along with Penguin, to equip Texas families and school libraries with print and online books for children who may not otherwise have a library of their own or access to books. The effort has also donated more than 81,000 books around the globe. We Give Books enables anyone with Internet access to put books in the hands of children by reading a children’s book online. For each book read online, We Give Books donates a book to a children’s literacy group in the United States or around the globe. “The importance of reading to young children cannot be emphasized enough, and with strapped family budgets, it can be difficult for many students to have their very own new books,” said Mark Nieker, executive director for the Pearson Foundation. “Providing children books of their own shows them that During the fall semester, Aldine ISD Superintendent Dr. Wanda Bamberg was selected as a panelist as part of NBC News’ Education Nation Summit, held at the Rockefeller Center in New York. Standing with a group of Hinojosa students are Assistant Principal Kelly Domino (center), teacher Rosalinda Pérez (left) and paraprofessional Melissa Garza (right). the adults in their lives view reading as vitally important, and helps them start a home library. Research shows that children’s success is related to how many books there are in the home.” The students and teachers at Hinojosa also received a variety of promotional items such as picture frame magnets, large mural posters for activities and promotional pennants. But the greatest gift to the school and its students came in the form of 500 books donated to the school’s library. “When I heard that the We Give Books ReadMobile was coming to Hinojosa, I was so excited!” exclaimed Principal Sandra Arredondo. “For the past five years, we have been providing all of the students with books for their own personal home library. Each year, with the help of our PTA, business partners and school resources, we have provided our students with at least 10 books a year. “The books donated to our students by the We Give Books ReadMobile will be a welcomed addition to their home libraries.” We Give Books aims to help young children, along with their families, understand the power of reading and the gift of putting a book in the hands of a child. Children and families can also access a free digital collection of children’s books online anytime at www.wegivebooks.com. For more information about the Pearson Foundation and its commitment to education, visit www.pearsonfoundation.org. Readers can also find out more about Penguin, one of the largest English-language trade book publishers, by visiting http:// us.penguingroup.com/static/pages/aboutus/index.html. AISD Board honors Tuskegee Airmen Continued from page 1 in ending racial segregation in the military and in American society. Following Gropman’s presentation, Danielle Burns, the great niece of Davis, spoke on behalf of the family. She thanked the Board for the “tremendous honor in naming the new Aldine high school and ninth grade center after our Uncle.” She introduced members of her family and told the audience her Uncle and family have always placed a high value on education. Although her Uncle encountered many hardships in his life, she said he never wavered. She shared with the audience the following excerpt from an entry in Davis’ yearbook written by a classmate when he graduated from West Point. It read: “The courage, tenacity and intelligence with which you conquered a problem incomparably more difficult won for you the sincere admiration of your classmates and your singleminded determination to continue in your chosen career cannot fail to inspire respect wherever Bamberg selected as panelist for NBC’s Education Nation Summit fortune may lead you.” She also thanked her Uncle’s fellow Tuskegee Airmen for making the trip to Aldine. “We are also proud and humbled to be with many of the men that served and trained with Uncle Ben. As we look around at some of these proud Tuskegee Airmen tonight, we want to say thank you for your service to this country and know that this school, while named for Davis, is also a testament to you. Your perseverance, hard work and honor continue to foster programs in our great country and for that, we honor you as well.” Following Burns’ comments, U.S. Congresswoman Sheila JacksonLee brought greetings on behalf of the United States Congress. She thanked Davis and the Airmen for their service to the country and for helping to break down racial barriers. The Congresswoman also informed the crowd that her father-in-law was also a Tuskegee Airmen, something she and her family take great pride in. Congresswoman Jackson-Lee then presented a Resolution from the House of Representatives on behalf of the Airmen to Aldine ISD. Following congresswoman’s remarks, Wilson introduced the various business partners who helped to sponsor the Airmen’s trip. Continental Airlines donated 50 round trip airline tickets to fly in guests from across the nation. The Houston Airport System helped the district organize the event and coordinated the arrival of the Airmen and Davis family members as well as their visit to Wings Over Houston. InvesTex Credit Union helped underwrite the cost of expenses associated with the Airmen and their guests, and H.E.B. provided appetizers and refreshments at the reception that was held after the October Board meeting. Wilson also thanked business partner Clarence Callis and his son Clarence Jr. who coordinated the visit and provided security. During their visit, the Airmen and their family members visited the construction site of General Davis High School and Ninth Grade School. The panel Bamberg formed a part of discussed, “Shrinking the Achievement Gap: Is education the civil rights issue of our time?” Joining her on the panel were Roland Fryer, a professor at Harvard and CEO of EdLabs; Benjamin Todd Jealous, president and CEO of the NAACP (National Association for the Advancement of Color People); Michael Lomax, president and CEO of the United Negro College Fund; Janet Murguia, president and CEO of the National Council of La Raza, and Michael Nutter, mayor of Philadelphia. NBC News’ Education Nation Summit was the centerpiece of a weeklong “Education Nation” initiative which convened the foremost policymakers, elected officials, thought leaders, educators, members of the business community and engaged citizens in a national discussion about the challenges, potential solutions and innovations spanning today’s education landscape. The Aldine Independent School District offers career and technology education in agriculture science, business education, career orientation, family and consumer science, health science technology, hospitality services, marketing education, technology education and trade and industrial technology. Admission to these programs is based on ability, aptitude, interest, grade level and class size. It is the policy of the Aldine Indepen dent School District not to discriminate on the basis of race, color, national origin, sex, or handicap in its vocational programs, services, or activities as required by Title VI of the Civil Rights Act of 1964, as amended; Title IX of the Education Amendments of 1972; and Section 504 of the Rehabilitation Act of 1973, as amended. It is the policy of the Aldine Indepen dent School District not to discriminate on the basis of race, color, national origin, sex, handicap, or age in its employment practices as required by Title VI of the Civil Rights Act of 1964, as amended; Title IX of the Education Amendments of 1972; the Age Discrimination Act of 1975, as amended; and Section 504 of the Rehabilitation Act of 1973, as amended. Aldine Independent School District will take steps to ensure that lack of English language skills will not be a barrier to admission and participation in all educational and vocational programs. For information about your rights or grievance procedures, contact the Title IX Coordinator, Dr. Archie Blanson, deputy superintendent, 14910 Aldine Westfield Road, at (281) 985-6315, and/ or the Section 504 Coordinator, Dr. Charlotte J. Davis, director of guidance and counseling and at-risk students, 14909 Aldine Westfield Road, at (281) 985-6403. Aldine Independent School District does not discriminate against persons because of race, creed, national origin, age, sex, disabilities, economic status or language disability in employment, promotion or educational programming. Any complaints or grievances that cannot be solved at the campus level through the principal may be submitted in writing to Dr. Archie Blanson, deputy super in ten dent, 14910 Aldine Westfield Rd., Houston, TX 77032. Inside Aldine / Noticias de Aldine, August 23, 2010, is published quarterly by Aldine Independent School District, 14910 Aldine Westfield Road, Houston, TX 77032-3099, Issue Vol. 33, No. 1, Fall 2010. Inside Aldine Winter 2010 Page 4 Schools & Community Visit www.aldine.k12.tx.us MacArthur boys cruise to cross country title MacArthur’s Linares The MacArthur High boys’ cross country team won the District 18-5A title while the earns softball scholarship girls’ team finished second at the league meet hosted by Aldine ISD. Both teams advanced to the Region 3 Meet, but did not qualify for the state meet. In other fall sports, the Eisenhower Lady Eagles volleyball team finished second in District 18-5A with a 10-3 league record (24-13 season record) and advanced to the first round of the Class 5A playoffs. The MacArthur High Lady Generals also earned a playoff spot by finishing fourth in league play with a 7-5 record (11-20 season record). In football, the Eisenhower Eagles finished second in District 18-5A play with a 5-1 league record and advanced to the first round of the Class 5A playoffs. The Eagles finished 6-5 on the season. Pictured are members of the MacArthur High School boys’ and girls’ cross country team. The boys’ team finished first at the District 18-5A Meet while the girls’ team finished second. Aldine High’s Nailor receives Reliant Energy Scholarship Aldine Senior High School senior football player Galen Nailor (fourth from the left) posed with family and members of the Houston Texans organization after it was announced he was named a Reliant Energy Scholarship for Champions Winner. Nailor will receive a $5,000 scholarship from Reliant Energy. Galen was one of eight Houston-area high school senior athletes who were named Reliant Energy Scholarship of Champions Winners. Galen and the other seven recipients were honored with a pregame on-field check presentation during the Texans’ Nov. 28 game against the Tennessee Titans at Reliant Stadium. Pictured with Galen were (left-to-right): Houston Texans offensive lineman Rashad Butler, Galen’s godmother JoEtta Coleman, Galen’s father, Joe Nailor; Nailor’s mother, Gail Edmond Nailor; and Texans’ ambassador J.J. Moses. Galen, and the seven other recipients, Linares, who plays shortstop for the Lady Generals, was the District 195A Newcomer of the Year in 2008, a two-time first-team all-district player as a sophomore and junior and was named to the All Greater Houston softball team after her junior season in 2010. Joining her at the signing ceremony were, front row (l-r): head softball coach James Grotenhuis, and her father Rolando Linares. Back row (l-r): assistant coach Bubba Delk, MacArthur High principal Nancy Blackwell, head football coach and campus athletic coordinator Bernie Mulvaney and counselor Denise Keeton. Dedication ceremony held at Lewis Middle School were awarded the scholarships based on their academic achievement, community involvement and athletic prowess. Galen is ranked first in his class of more than 660 seniors, serves his community as a volunteer and was a captain and a starting defensive end for the Mustangs. Aldine ISD’s Mader honored by NIAAA Sandra Mader, Aldine ISD’s director of athletic services, was one of nine individuals recently named a recipient of the 2010 Distinguished Service Award by the National Interscholastic Athletic Administrators Association (NIAAA) for making outstanding contributions to interscholastic athletics. Mader and the other eight award winners were honored Dec. 9 in Orlando, Florida, during a banquet at the 41st annual National Athletic Directors Conference conducted jointly by the National Federation of State High School Associations (NFHS) and the NIAAA. The Distinguished Service Award is presented annually to individuals from within the NIAAA membership in recognition of their length of service, special accomplishments and contributions to interscholastic athletics at the local, state and national levels. Nominations are submitted by state athletic director associations, screened by the NIAAA Awards Committee, and selected by the NIAAA Board of Directors. A graduate of Sam Houston State University, Mader’s career in education began in 1987 at North Shore High School, where she was varsity softball coach, assistant basketball MacArthur High School senior softball player Linda Linares (seated center) signed a national letter of intent with Stephen F. Austin State University on Wednesday, Nov. 10. coach and an English teacher. After her years at North Shore, she became assistant athletic director and head softball coach at Alvin High School for one-and-a-half years before assuming her duties as principal and director of athletics of the Ninth Grade Center in Galveston ISD from 1997 to 2007. Mader served on the NIAAA Board of Directors from 2003 to 2005, and she was also a member of the NIAAA Strategic Planning Committee. At the state level, one of Mader’s most significant accomplishments was her work with the University Interscholastic League in adding fast-pitch softball as a sport in Texas high schools. She helped the Texas High School Girls Coaches Association (THSGCA) Board add softball coaches to its membership, and also helped initiate a softball all-star game. Mader also served as secretary of the Texas High School Athletic Directors Association (THSADA) Board of Directors from 2003-05 and has served on numerous THSADA committees. Mader has been inducted into the United States Specialty Sports Association Hall of Fame and the Texas United States Specialty Sports Hall of Fame for her softball accomplishments, as well as the THSGCA Hall of Honor. She also has been inducted into her high school’s hall of fame – the Triton Regional High School Hall of Fame in Runnemeda, New Jersey. Continued from page 1 family members and friends who attended the dedication ceremony. “We praise God for each of you and thank Him for allowing our paths to cross.” Kathy also thanked Aldine ISD for bestowing such a wonderful honor on her and Vernon. “To our Aldine School Board of Education and all concerned we say thank you for this beautiful tribute,” she said. “To our audience compiled of family, friends, co-workers, Lewis Middle School staff, students and parents, thank you all for sharing your lives with us. Each of us plays a vital part in the life of a child. We all must continue to have an educator’s heart and a servant’s heart.” Vernon also recognized a number of individuals he crossed paths with over the years, shared humorous stories during his tenure and thanked the district’s leadership for being the driving force that has guided Aldine ISD over the last 40 years. “Our positions in Aldine were guided by a set of core beliefs that have permeated Aldine since its inception,” Vernon said. “Those core beliefs were established by the community that is represented by the school board. The names, faces, and gender of the board members have changed over the past 40 years, but the core beliefs have not. Simply stated those beliefs are: hire the best teachers and take care of them, teach our children and equip them to be successful in the real world, love our children unconditionally, and spend our tax money wisely.” Vernon also challenged Lewis Principal Cassandra Cosby and her staff to see to it that their students reach their full potential. “To Mrs. Cosby and her staff, embrace the district’s vision and pro- duce the nation’s best. In doing so you will open doors of opportunity for these young students and enrich their lives. To our Board and administrative staff, thank you for allowing Kathy and I to serve in Aldine. It never ceases to amaze me to see all that you do for our children and our district. Thank you for your dedicated service and your servant’s heart. Thank you for this honor.” The dedication ceremony began with a welcome from Lewis Assistant Principal Jose Almendarez, which was followed by introductions by Ben Wilson, assistant superintendent of community and governmental relations. The Lewis L.O.T.C. then presented the colors, which was followed by the pledge to the U.S. flag and Texas flag led by Lewis students Gregory Goods, Jordyn Quirit and Annele Swanson. Pastor Erroll Jerome Sweat, an Aldine High graduate, then delivered the invocation, which was followed by the dedication address presented by Cosby. The Lewis choir then performed “O Salutaris” and “The Heavens are Telling”, followed by the presentation of the school by Aldine ISD Board President Dr. Alton Smith. The school was then accepted on behalf of Lewis student Kathryn Neuman, staff member Karen Barnes and parent Rachel Goods. The Lewises then delivered their remarks, which was followed by a special presentation to the Lewises by Assistant Principal Torrance Brooks. The unveiling of the portrait was performed by Lewis student Deon Sinquefield, Lewis teacher Rhonda Guitroz, and Teague Middle School Principal Michael Gallien. The ceremony concluded with remarks from Aldine ISD Superintendent Dr. Wanda Bamberg. Inside Aldine Winter 2010 Page 5 Join our current business partners A and J Automotive A-1 Glass & Mirror Aaron’s Rental Spring Cyrpress Rd. Abitibi Recycling Corp Academic Enrichment Learning Academy Academy Breton Ridge Academy Group Dental Academy North Freeway Acosta’s Acres Home Center Acres Home Public Library African American Chamber of Commerce Aggressive Trucking AIG Valic Airgas Airport Express Alaskan Snow Cones Aldine Bender Auto Aldine Child Development Center Aldine Greenspoint YMCA Aldine Improvement District Aldine Pathfinder Scouting District Aldine Public Library Aldine Y.O.U.T.H. All Awards Alley Theatre ALPHA ACADEMY ALS Accounting AMC 24 Deerbrook American Bureau of Shipping AmeriCorps Ann Schmalz Anti-Smoking Campaign Arby’s Imperial Valley Art Institute of Boston Art Institute of Chicago Atascazoo Animal Hospital Atlas E. Parker Atlas Signs AT&T AutoZone Bingle Rd. AXA B&M Trash Hauling Baker Baker Blackie Machine Works Bartlett Tree Expert Company Barnes and Noble Deerbrook Mall Barnes and Noble FM 1960 W. Be An Angel Fund Inc. Beasley Tire Service Bell Towing Best Buy North Freeway Better Business Bureau Education Foundation Big Lots Bolts-N- Nuts Boy Scouts of America Brazos Valley Equine Hospital Brenda Solano Brentwood Baptist Church Brother’s Pizza Greenspoint Mall Burchfield and Bro. Burger King Aldine Westfield Burger King - Dyna Dr. Burger King - Little York Burger King - Houston Foods BX3Digital Cajun Stuff Candy Land Day School Business Partnerships Eis Edveuryconae’stBuisoinenss Becoming a Business Partner Tell me about Aldine ISD. Aldine ISD has approximately 63,000 students. Eighty-four percent are economically disadvantaged and 23 percent (mobility rate) move from one campus to another or to another district during the course of the school year. Tell me about the quality of Aldine’s education program. Aldine was winner of the 2009 Broad Prize for Urban Education, winner of the HEB Excellence in Education Award in 2008, has earned seven Recognized ratings for academic achievement from the Texas Education Agency, and won the 2006 Texas Award for Performance Excellence. Considering the demographics and quality of Aldine’s educational program, is there a need for business partnerships? Absolutely. Aldine needs additional assistance to help all of our students perform at the same academic levels as students from more affluent communities. Business partners help Aldine neutralize the impact of poverty and mobility. From Aldine’s point of view, education is everyone’s business. How can businesses help Aldine ISD remain a high performing school district and continue to improve in the delivery of educational services? Many campuses express the need for mentors, tutors, assistance with special projects, Texas Scholars and Career Day presenters, and assistance with school supplies. How can our company get involved? Contact any principal or Ben G. Wilson, assistant superintendent of community and governmental relations, at 281-9856202 or send an E-mail to bwilson@aldine.k12.tx.us. Wanda Bamberg, Ed.D. Aldine ISD Superintendent of Schools Canino Produce Capital One Bank FM 1960 E. Capital Welding and Construction Career Educators Carlos Mexican REstaurant Carls Automotive Carrington Enterprises Catalyst Rx Catholic Charities CCD Ventures Cellular Unlimited Talk CEVA Logistics Charles Transports & Associates LLC Chase Bank (Fall Creek) Chase Bank Rusk St. Chase Bank W. Little York Chavez Graphics Chic-fil-A Deerbrook Chick-fil-A @FM 1960 W. Chick-fil-A N. Sam Houston Pkwy. Chick-fil-A North Freeway Children’s Museum of Houston Churches Chicken T.C. Jester Blvd. CiCi’s Pizza (Humble) CiCi’s Pizza FM 1960 CiCi’s Pizza Greenspoint Mall CiCi’s Pizza Tomball Pkwy. City of HoustonSolid Waste Mgt. Dept. Collision King Auto Center Columbus College of Art COMCAST Comfort Inn & Suites JFK Blvd. Community of Christ Church Component Sales & Services Computer Sales and Service Congressman Gene Green Congresswoman Sheila Jackson Lee Continental Airlines County Commissioner El Franco Lee Cracker Barrel North Freeway Crimestoppers Dairy Queen Aldine Bender Rd. Davis Food City DEA Deerbrook Forest Chrysler Jeep Delmar Studios Delta Supplies Denny’s North Freeway Deskco DHL Discount Tires Eastex Freeway Doctor’s Hospital (Parkway) Dollar General Greens Rd. Dollar Tree FM 1960 Bypass Dollar Tree North Freeway Domino’s Pizza Aldine Bender Domino’s Pizza FM 529 Doubletree Hotel JFK Blvd. Downtown Aquarium Dr. Gloria Iwuala Dr. Pepper Snapple Dream Starters Dreamzone365, Inc. Driscoll Place Apartments E. F. & Associates Eagle Global Logistics Eagle Tire & Auto Service Early Initiatives Group East Aldine Management District Educational Products El Dorado Paving Co. Inc El Paso Empress Shipping EMRJ Marketing, LLC Enterprise Products EPI Eraser Dust ExxonMobil ExxonMobil Educational Alliance Program EZ Party Fallbrook Church Fallas Paredes Family Dollar Eastex Freeway Famsa Furniture Store Farmers Insurance Greens Rd. Farmers Insurance S. Loop W. Fiesta Airline Dr. Fiesta Jensen Dr. Inside Aldine Winter 2010 Page 6 Fiesta W. Mt. Houston Rd. Firestone North Freeway First Service Credit Union First Southwest Company First Stop Flower Connection Fluor Corporation Foundation FMA Alliance, Ltd. FMC Technologies Forest Park Lawndale Frost Bank Fry’s North Freeway Funtasia Future Group World Cricket Premiere G. Ian Smith III, CPA G. K. Pillar - CPA G. Pillai - CPA Gallery Furniture Garnett Aviation Gayla Corporation GEN X Uniforms Genesys Works Girl Scouts of San Jacinto Council Girls Scouts - Explorer GlaxoSmithKline GleanKing Janitoral Services Gloria Jean’s Coffee Go Go Gomez Good Eats Gotcha Kovered Great Time Skate Greater Commission Missonary Baptist Church Greater Inwood Partnership Greensheet for Education Greenspoint Mall Grimes Bakery Gulf States Financial Services Gulf States Toyota H.E.B. Halliburton Harbor Capital Group Harris County Library (Aldine Branch) Harris County Sheriff’s Dept. Harris County Utility District #15 HBB Piano Studio HCDE - CASE HCPHES Hess Corporation High Meadows Branch Library Hilda’s Decoraciones Holiday Inn Houston IAH Holy Bears Inc. Home Depot North Freeway Houston Aeros Houston Airport System Houston Association of Professional Landman Houston Astros Houston Bar Association Houston Chronicle Houston Dynamo Houston Food Bank Houston Northwest Chamber of Commerce Houston Police Department Mounted Patrol Houston Rockets Houston TaeKwonDo Academy Hughes Christensen Product Engineering Humble Family Skate I. Scott Lidji & Associates Law Office IBM Immigration Customs Institute for International Education - Houston Office Intercoastal Paint Intergrated Airline Services InvesTex Credit Union ITT Technical Institute ITZ- Family Food and Fun J.C.’s Office Solutions J.L. Trucking J&B Technologies Jack-in-the-Box Aldine Westfield Rd. Jack-in-the-Box JFK Blvd. Jack-in-the-Box Will Clayton Pkwy. Jackson Catering Jason’s Deli FM 1960 W. Jed’s Hardware Business Partnerships Fluor Corporation and Raymond Academy For more information on student internship programs, call Franklin Higgins, director of career and technical education, at 281-9856650. InvesTex Credit Union and Grantham Academy Cynthia Von Tesmar, community relations manager at Fluor Corporation, presented a check to Raymond Academy’s after-school program for $20,000. Pictured is Von Tesmar with a group of students celebrating the company’s 100-year anniversary. DHL and Conley Elementary From left to right: Bridgett Sanders with InvesTex, Principal Dr. Rebecca Duong, and Jana Anders with InvesTex. Joe’s Greenhouse and Kujawa Elementary DHL provided Christmas toys for students. Pictured are (l-r): Glenda Johnson, Terry Ellis, Chad Thackston, and Oscar Herrera. ExxonMobil and Marcella Intermediate Rick Meidel organizes many fellow workers from Exxon Mobil to mentor students for the campus’ S.N.A.P.P. Mentor Program. McDonalds and Marcella Intermediate Manager Katina Frey and owner-operator Perry Jordan of the McDonalds restaurant on Greenspoint coordinated McTeacher Night for Marcella’s teachers. Several students and staff showed up to support this annual event. Teachers worked at the front counter, drive-thru window and served as cooks for the night. A percentage of funds were donated to Marcella Intermediate. The event was held November 8, 2010. Assistant Principal Carolyn Washington and McDonalds franchise owner-operator Perry Jordan at the drive-thru window. Pictured with Principal Debbie Hagood are Maria and José Morales and their son José who attends Kujawa Elementary. Morales is the owner of Joe’s Greenhouse and has donated plants and trees to the school. In the picture: (l-r) Assistant Principal Carolyn Washington, of Marcella Intermediate and Katina Frey, manager of McDonalds. Principal Kathy Sandoval of Marcella Intermediate and her assistant principals Ash Kirk and Carolyn Washington. Business Partnerships Inside Aldine Winter 2010 Page 7 Business Partners and Eisenhower HS Eis Edveuryconae’stBuisoinenss Business Partners and Nimitz 9th Grade Andrea Cahoon and Jason Vasquez with Univision Radio visited with students on Career Day. Pictured are (left to right): Assistant Principal Rosalyn Sweat; Brent Paige, AXA Equitable financial professional; and teachers Konstance Grimble and Marilyn Hume. Regina Gervin with Boys and Girls Scouts of America and Twanna Collier, AISD college advisor, talked to students about their future. Jessica Thompson with Aquarium Downtown spoke to students during the campus’ Career Day event. Gardner Seaholm of Josten’s, one of Eisenhower Senior High School’s business partners, poses with members of the school administrative team. Pictured are (l-r): Robin Goff, Eisenhower senior lead counselor, Principal Ben Ibarra, Seaholm and Assistant Principal Rosalyn Sweat. Shell and Raymond Academy Anitra Chambers with NASA made science approachable to young learners during Career Day. Richard Fieden of Pheido Advertising talked to students about a career in sales on Career Day. As part of a community service project of Toastmasters Skyline District, Al Gearing with Shell donated school supplies to Stehlik Intermediate School. AXA Advisors and Carter Academy AXA Advisors were able to donate two children’s bicycles. Pictured (left to right) are: Shane Clotiaux, Principal Lee Wold, and Jonathan Powell. EMRJ Marketing was able to donate a riding lawnmower to Carter Academy. Pictured is Principal Lee Wold. Shirley Columbus with St. Luke’s Hospital shared her experiences in the health industry on Career Day. Terry Williams, executive VP for H-E-B discussed how his career began and deployed at the supermarket chain. Jesse Jones Park Jet Machine Works JMW Productions Jo Aderholdt Johnson Space Center Jose’ Morales Joslin Construction Josten’s Junior Achievement Just Poppin Gourmet Popcorn Kansas City Art Institute Keller Williams Realty Kid’s and Play Child Development Center KIDZFIT Kings and Queens Barber & Beauty Kingwood College Kroger Aldine Mail Rte. Kroger Gift Imperial Valley Kroger Gulfton Laguna College of Art and Design Larry’s Photos & Video Graduate Photos Laser Quest Law Office of Angela Aaron Law Offices of Mari Gianukos Lawemax Truck & Trailer Repair Le Petite Bistro Learning Blocks Leslie Knetsar Leukemia and Lymphoma Society Liberty Tax Service Lifetouch Lisa Read Little Angels Day Care Little Angels of Praise Little Caesars W. Little York Rd. Little Caesars W. Sam Houston Pkwy. Living Word Fellowship Church LMS Group Lone Star College - Greenspoint Lone Star College - North Harris LoneStar College - Tomball Loxanna Photography Luby’s Cafeteria Eastex Freeway Luby’s Veterans Memorial Dr. Luby’s W. Greens Rd. Lucia & Cesar Diaz Lunchbox Deli Lupe Tortilla M&J Customs Mac Haik Chrysler Mac Jr. Steel Erectors MAES Inc. Main Event Main Street Theater Mapula MÁS Club MASS Art MATTCO Mfg. McCullough Kwik Air & Heating McDonald’s Aldine Bender Rd. McDonald’s FM 1960 McDonald’s Greens Rd. McDonald’s N. Sam Houston Pkwy E. McDonald’s North Freeway McDonald’s Southwest Freeway McDonald’s W. Mt. Houston Rd, McDonald’s West Rd. McDonald’s-Kelly QSR Group McDonalds FM 1960 E. MD Anderson Me and My Pals Portraits Melcon Vending Menzies Aviation Group Mercer Arboretum Mex. Institute of Greater Houston MIAD Michelle Moosally Mine Beads & More Mission Greenspoint MISSION - REAL ESTATE Mister Carwash Mogas Industries, Inc. Monterey’s Little Mexico Moore College of Art Mrs. Bairds Bread MRT Auto & Diesel Repair Mt. Olive Baptist Church Museum of Fine Arts Inside Aldine Winter 2010 Page 8 Nappco Fastener Company New hope Community Church Noble Energy North Houston Bank North Houston Greenspoint Chamber of Commerce North Park Baptist Church North Star Interests, L.C. Northside Karate Nu Faith Community United Methodist Church Oaks Christan Church Office Depot North Freeway OfficeMax - Clara Rd. OfficeMax - Eastex Freeway Oteco P&S AUTO SALES Pam’s Prints & More Pan Riko Bakery Pancho’s (Humble) Pancho’s North Freeway Panda Express North Freeway Panera Bread Company FM 1960 W, Panhandle Energy Papa John’s FM 1960 Papa John’s North Freeway Pappasito’s North Freeway Pepsi Bottling Group Pheido Advertising Phillip Townsend Associates Phoenix Fasteners Phoenix House Photo Plus Pier 1 Imports Pizza Hut FM 1960 W. Pizza Inn PLANET FORD.COM Popeyes FM 1960 Popeyes Imperial Valley Pozada Restaurant Precinct 1 Constable’s Office Primerica Financial Services Print Mailers Producer’s Cooperative Association Progress Art Group, Inc. - Art Festival Prosperity Bank - Woodcreek QSP Readers Digest Quiznos N. Sam Houston Pkwy. Rainbow Fish RAM Winch and Hoist Randalls Kingwood RCW Nurseries, Inc. Real Estate Resource Reasoning Minds Recycle Rewards Rice University School Mathematics Project Right Now Termite and Pest Control Riskbytes, Inc. RITE Ronnie & Cathy Matthews, LTD. Rosita’s Restaurant Ross Stores Ryan Energy Technologies Ryan Drilling SAFE Kids Greater Houston Salvation Army Boys & Girls Club Sam Houston State Univ. Educational Leadership & Counseling Dept. Sam Houston State University Sam’s Club FM 1960 Sam’s Club FM 1960 Bypass Sam’s Club Richey Rd. Saturn of North Houston SB&B Business Service Schlumberger Shell Oil Sheraton Hotel JFK Blvd. Shipley Do-Nuts FM 1960 Showcase Awards Silvatech Smart Financial Bank SMFA, Boston Snowflake Donuts North Freeway Sonic Drive-In FM 1960 Sonic Drive-In North Freeway Sonic Drive-In Oklahoma City Sonic Drive-In Veteran’s Memorial Sonic Drive-In W. Little York Rd. Southern Floral Business Partnerships For more information on student internship programs, call Robert Thomas, program director of businesseducation partnerships, at 281-985-7230. Eisenhower to partner with College Forward in 2011 Eisenhower Senior High School will partner with College Forward beginning in 2011 to help facilitate the transition from high school to college for campus juniors. College Forward provides college access and college persistence services to motivated economically disadvantaged students. College Forward was founded in 2002 by Doreen Wise and Lisa Fielder. The duo recognized the desperate need to expand college access for economically-disadvantaged high school students in Central Texas. The original name was Admission Control and was launched on Sept. 1, 2003. It established a pilot program at two high schools in Hays Consolidated Independent School District. Since then, the organization has developed an effective curriculum and supplementary programs that have enabled students to enroll in colleges and universities throughout Texas and across the nation. Now a thriving partnership known as College Forward, the program continues to reach students and families in the greater Austin area and is expanding to the greater Houston area. The first two school districts in the Houston area to use the program will be Aldine ISD and Goose Creek ISD. Beginning in January 2011, College Forward will work with eligible juniors at Eisenhower Senior High. After school classes are scheduled to start on Feb. 2. During the 2010-11 school year, College Forward will serve an estimated 1,960 students; 60 high school students in Harris County; 1,150 in Central Texas; and 750 college-age students on the path to earn their bachelor’s degree. College Forward provides three core programs: 1)High School Program: “College Coaches,” who are recent college graduates and AmeriCorps volunteers lead twice-weekly college preparatory classes for high school juniors and seniors. Offcampus activities include visits to local universities and a weeklong tour of campuses across Texas. 2) College Persistence Program: This program provides virtual advising, financial and renewal Career Day at Worsham Elementary guidance, peer mentoring, and career development to students who graduate from the College Forward High School Program and continue their education at universities. 3)Parent Education and Support: College Forward also offers education and support for parents through regular consultation and daylong workshops offered in both English and Spanish, covering multiple aspects of college including college selection, financial aid, and “letting go.” During the students’ junior year, College Forward offers a full-day College/ Universidad 101 bilingual parent education workshop. Principal Ben Ibarra of Eisenhower Senior High School said he welcomes College Forward to his campus. “We look forward to working with College Forward to help make our students college ready,” Ibarra said. “Any program that encourages students to begin preparing for college is welcomed here.” CEVA provides holiday relief CEVA has been a solid business partner for Worsham Elementary over the years. Shane Kimzey with CEVA Logistics participated in Career Day. Richard Weidner with CEVA Logisitics spoke to students. Jonathan Powell with AXA Avisors LLC visited with students. The local company has provided the Junior Achievement program to every classroom at Worsham, donated incentive items for its students and provided speakers during the school’s annual career day. But this year, CEVA went above and beyond the call of duty. Principal Denise Meister was contacted by CEVA’s administrative manager, April Williamson, who said she and her company wanted to help bring holiday relief to five Worsham families. Meister readily accepted Williamson’s offer and thanks to the generous folks at CEVA, five families that might not have been able to celebrate Christmas were able to do so. “This year they (CEVA) asked to meet with the administrative team at Worsham to discuss ways to get more involved and support our students, families, and the community,” Meister said. “Out of this meeting it was decided to have the employees at CEVA sponsor five families at Worsham this Christmas. “We have many families who are economically disadvantaged, however, CEVA wanted to sponsor families that had extraneous circumstances. We can’t thank the employees at CEVA enough for their kind and generous gesture.” The five families CEVA “adopted” each received $1,000 worth of holiday cheer. To show their appreciation, the Worsham Orff Choir performed for CEVA employees on Dec. 13 and then the students toured the company. On Dec. 15, CEVA and Worsham employees delivered the gifts to the five adopted families. Southwest Teachers Supply Southwestern Energy Special Olympics Splashtown Spring Creek Lodge Spring ISD - Wunsche H.S. Child Studies & Teacher Preparation SRA Starbucks North Freeway Starbucks Tomball Pkwy. Starbucks Veteran’s Memorial/1960 State Farm Louetta Rd. State Farm Willow Center Subway Antoine Dr. Subway W. Little York Rd. T B & D Services T-Mobile Taco Bell Taco Cabana College Park Taco Cabana Little York Taco Cabana Tomball Pkwy. Target (Humble) Target North Freeway Tatoo Your Ride TCB Texans Together Texas A & M University Houston Recruitment Office Texas A&M - MSC Lead Program Texas A&M University Texas Children’s Health Plan Inc. Texas Department of Rehabilitation Services Texas Executive Women Texas Landscaping Company Texas Road House The Bimmer Workshop The Edwards Team Realty The Fastener Connection The Visualization Program The WaterWorks Museum Tin Star Jewelry Toni Anderson Total Construction Inspections Toys for Tots Trinity Training and Development Triple J’s BBQ and Catering Triten Corporation Tuttle Development Co. Tweezerman U of H Hispanic Business Student Assoc. U.S. Army UBS Investment Bank Universal Essentials Gymnastics University of Houston University of Houston College of Education University of Houston Downtown University of Phoenix Univision Radio Urgeworks Verizon Wireless Vincent Gonzales Restoration Wachovia Bank Walgreens Aldine Westfield Walgreens West Rd. Walmart FM 1960 Bypass Walmart N. Sam Houston Pkwy. Walmart North Freeway Washington Group International Washington Mutual FM 1960 W. Washington Mutual FM 2920 Washington Mutual Greens Rd. WaterWise Water Smart Wells Fargo Bank Wendy’s North Freeway Weyerhaeuser What-A-Burger FM 1960 W. What-A-Burger San Antonio What-A-Burger West Rd. What-A-Snack White Flamingo Restaurant World’s Finest chocolate Women’s Business Enterprise Alliance Writers in the Schools Wurth Adams YMCA of Greater Houston Young Audiences of Houston Zio’s Italian Restaurant North Freeway Otoño 2010 Vol. 33, Núm. 2 Noticias de Aldine descubra las últimas noticias, eventos y mucho más sobre las escuelas de aldine. resumen deportivo Varios programas deportivos calificaron para los playoffs durante la temporada otoñal. También lea sobre los estudiantes atletas del AISD quienes recibieron becas universitarias . Lea el artículo en la página 4. AISD obtiene más alta clasificación estatal de responsabilidad fiscal El distrito escolar, por octavo año consecutivo, recibió la clasificación “Logro Superior” bajo Schools FIRST (el sistema de clasificación de responsabilidad financiera de Texas). Esta es la clasificación más alta del estado, la cual muestra la calidad del sistema de gestión financiera e informe financiero del AISD. La clasificación se basó en datos del curso 2008-09. Modelo de AISD, AISD rinde honor a Aviadores Tuskegee 26 de octubre, el Distrito Escolar de Aldine celebró un evento de reconoconsiderado mejor Elcimiento de los familiares del General Benjamin Oliver Davis Jr. y los integrantes los Aviadores Tuskegee quienes viajaron a través del país para acudir a este práctica por TEA deespecial acontecimiento. La Agencia de Educación de Texas (conocida por sus siglas en inglés TEA) consideró que el Modelo de Observación e Intervención Colaborativo del AISD ejemplifica una de las mejores prácticas del sector educativo. La Agencia desarrolló su Recopilación de Mejores Prácticas en un esfuerzo para recopilar y compartir todas las mejores estrategias que están utilizando los distritos escolares de Texas para formar a alumnos. Para satisfacer el criterio de la Agencia, las estrategias deben ser basadas en pruebas de eficacia (eficiencia). Como el ganador del Premio Broad de 2009, TEA le pidió al AISD que presentará su mejor práctica. El modelo que el AISD presentó describe cómo el personal docente de las escuelas prestan atención a los datos sobre el rendimiento estudiantil, los métodos y las estrategias aplicados para intervenir cuando los alumnos necesitan ayuda, un modelo (ejemplo) de intervención, un modelo de intervención intenso cuando las escuelas necesitan ayuda con los alumnos con dificultades (problemas) académicas y cómo el distrito escolar forma y capacita el personal docente e incluso proporciona ayuda adicional para apoyar las intervenciones. La TEA le envió al AISD una placa de reconocimiento por su mejor práctica. Para más información, visite http:// www.teabpc.org. La visión de Aldine: Preparar y Formar Mejores Personas Nuestra Misión Existimos para preparar académicamente y socialmente a cada alumno a ser un: • Pensador crítico; • Solucionador de problemas; y • Ciudadano responsable y productivo. El Dr. Alton Smith, presidente del Consejo Escolar de Aldine, le dijo al grupo que dos nuevas escuelas — una escuela secundaria y una de noveno grado — llevarán el nombre del General Benjamin Oliver Davis Jr., quien fue el comandante de los Aviadores Tuskegee, el primer cuerpo aéreo afroamericano del ejercito. Fue el primer afroamericano a convertirse en general de la Fuerza Aérea. El gran papel que desempeñaron él y sus pilotos debido a su servicio ejemplar durante la Segunda Guerra Mundial ayudó en la integración racial de las fuerzas armadas. En 1970, después de jubilarse de la Fuerza Aérea, supervisó el programa federal de mariscal aéreo. En 1971, fue nombrado un subsecretario de transportes. Se retiró de las Fuerza Aérea con el rango de teniente general de tres estrellas y fue el oficial afroamericano de más antigüedad (jerarquía) de las fuerzas armadas. En 1998, el Presidente Bill Clinton le concedió al Davis su cuarta estrella, ascendiéndolo a general. Sirvió con distinción militar. Davis falleció en 2002, a la edad de 89 años. Smith luego reconoció a los miembros de la familia de Davis, los integrantes de los Aviadores Tuskegee y las Integrantes de los Aviadores Tuskegee, miembros del Consejo Escolar de Aldine y miembros del equipo administrativo del distrito escolar figuran en la fotografía. enfermeras y mecánicos quienes trabajaron con los Aviadores. También reconoció a los patrocinadores quienes hicieron posible la visita de los Aviadores: la aerolínea Continental, el Sistema de Aeropuertos de Houston, la cooperativa de crédito InvesTex Credit Union y el supermercado H-E-B. Todos los presentes vieron un video sobre la historia y el patrimonio de los Aviadores, el cual fue creado por Deborah Johnson y Shirley Worden, directoras del programa de estudios sociales. Ben Wilson, superintendente auxiliar de relaciones comunitarias y gubernamentales del AISD, pidió que se realizara un momento de silencio para conmemorar a aquellos Aviadores Tuskegee quienes han fallecido. Wilson luego presentó al Dr. Alan Gropman, un catedrático distinguido de la política de seguridad nacional del Colegio Industrial de la Universidad Nacional de Defensa. Durante los años, él escribió para los presidentes estadounidenses Clinton y George W. Bush quienes honraron a Davis. También escribió su biografía e incluso compartió memorias de Davis y el papel que desempeñó Continúa en página 3 Escuela Media Lewis, ceremonia de dedicación Amistades, ex colegas e integrantes de la familia de Vernon y Kathy Lewis se reunión el 24 de octubre para celebrar el nombramiento de la escuela que lleva el nombre de ambos. Cada uno dedicó más de 30 años de servicio al Distrito Escolar de Aldine. Ambos emprendieron sus carreras en 1969, con el señor Lewis jubilándose en 2006 después de 38 años, y la señora Lewis retirándose en 2007 después de 35 años de dedicarse a la educación. El señor Lewis desempeñó distintas funciones en el AISD durante sus años de servicio: docente, subdirector (Escuela Secundaria Eisenhower), director (Escuela Media Teague y la Escuela Secundaria Aldine), director ejecutivo de escuelas secundarias, superintendente del área escolar de Nimitz y superintendente auxiliar de administración. Mientras que la señora Lewis sirvió de docente en las escuelas secundarias MacArthur y Nimitz, consejera de educación especial y consejera de educación regular de la Escuela Media Teague desde 1983 hasta su jubilación en 2007. En sus comentarios, ambos agradecieron a sus familiares y sus amistades; incluso sus colegas que conocieron durante sus años en el Distrito Escolar de Aldine. “Gracias por su constancia, compasión, dirección y amor in- Vernon y Kathy Lewis (centro), miembros del Consejo Escolar de Aldine y la Superintendente Dra. Wanda Bamberg figuran en la fotografía. condicional”, dijo la señora Lewis Continúa en página 4 Reorganización de consejo escolar El Consejo Escolar de Aldine se reorganizó durante la reunión de noviembre. El comité de nominación, presidiado por el miembro Rick Ogden, nombró a Rose Ávalos para servir de presidenta. El Dr. Alton Smith quien sirvió de presidente durante el año pasado le pasó el martillo a Ávalos. Rick Ogden servirá de vicepresidente, Merlin Griggs de secretario, y Marine Jones de secretaria auxiliar. Steve Mead, la Dra. Viola M. García y Smith servirán de miembros. Ávalos luego asignó miembros a los comités permanentes del consejo escolar. El comité de revisión de política será presidiado por Jones y constará de Ogden y Smith. El comité de sitio será presidiado por Smith y constará de Griggs y Mead. El comité de nombramiento de escuelas será presidiado por Griggs y constará de García y Ogden. El comité de nominación será presidiado por Mead y constará de Smith y García. El comité de selección de nuevos miembros al consejo escolar será presidiado por García y constará de Jones y Ogden. Smith agradeció a los miembros del consejo por su apoyo durante su término de presidente y ellos le agradecieron su servicio y liderazgo. Los miembros del consejo escolar son oficiales elegidos no retribuidos representando la comunidad servida por el distrito escolar. Ellos diseñan la política educativa del distrito escolar. El Dr. Smith, el presidente saliente, le pasa el martillo a Ávalos, la presidenta entrante, durante la reunión del consejo escolar en noviembre. Noticias de Aldine Invierno 2010 Página 2 Escuela y Comunidad Programa ataca deserción escolar Casi 550 voluntarios de Aldine se levantaron temprano para caminar las calles el 11 de septiembre para apoyar el retorno al colegio de quienes desertaron durante la caminata anual “Apoyar el retorno al colegio de desertores escolares”. Estimados Padres y Apoderados: Se que están ansiando las vacaciones de pleno invierno que serán bien merecidas. Es un buen tiempo para gozar con sus familias y amistades e incluso para crear recuerdos familiares. Tenemos muchas cosas que celebrar en el AISD, incluyendo recibir una clasificación de “Logro Superior” bajo Schools FIRST, el sistema de clasificación de responsabilidad financiera de Texas. Esto demuestra la calidad de nuestro sistema de gestión financiera. Nos esforzaremos por seguir siendo responsables fiscalmente en medio de la crisis económica. También recibimos el reporte FAST (Estudio Sobre la Asignación de Fondos de Texas) del interventor donde recibimos cuatro y media estrellas de unas posibles cinco. Este reporte utiliza datos financieros y académico para identificar distritos escolares que están usando dinero eficientemente y mejorando los resultados de la prueba estatal TAKS (prueba de evaluación de conocimientos y habilidades de Texas). Estamos orgullosos porque es otro indicador que estamos trabajando diligentemente para servir a nuestros alumnos mientras gastamos eficientemente el dinero de los contribuyentes. Por que la mayoría de nuestros alumnos son provenientes de familias de bajos recursos económicos, se necesita más recursos para asegurar que tengan éxito. Por ejemplo en 2008-2009, el distrito gastó $7,711 por cada alumno mientras que los fondos estatales y locales sólo pagaron $7,285 de los gastos por alumno. Esto fue una diferencia de $426 por cada alumno que el distrito paga utilizando los fondos de Título 1 cuando posible pero también a través de los ingresos locales. La escasez de fondos representa un gran reto para nosotros en los años venideros. Los distritos escolares tiene dos alternativas para mitigar los déficits presupuestarios: 1) recaudar más ingresos pidiéndoles a los contribuyentes que aprueben impuestos escolares adicionales y 2) cortar gastos. Hemos realizado ambas opciones. En agosto, les pedimos a los votantes que aprobaran aumentar los impuestos escolares. El contribuyente con una vivienda a valor de $50,000 hubiera visto un aumento anual de $45.50 o aproximadamente .13 centavos al día. El impuesto de una vivienda a valor de $100,000 hubiera visto un aumento de $110.50 o aproximadamente .30 centavos al día. Sin embargo, los contribuyentes votaron en contra de aumentar los impuestos escolares en Aldine. Actualmente, los contribuyentes de Aldine pagan los más bajos impuestos escolares en la región junto con el Distrito Escolar de Houston. La tasa impositiva sigue siendo $1.17. El estado tambieen está enfrentando un déficit de unos posibles 25 billones de dólares. Y como la educación pública absorbe un 44 por ciento del presupuesto estatal, esperamos menos financiación del estado durante los dos próximos dos años. Como no sabemos por cuánto menos recibiremos del estado o cuando recibiremos los números finales del presupuesto, estamos planeando incluir varias opciones que se podrán poner en práctica cuando sea necesario. Claro que el recortar el presupesto significa reducir los servicios educativos que les brindamos a los alumnos. Los retos que enfrentamos hacen la 82va sesión legislativa, la cual inicia en enero, sea la más importante para los años venideros. Las decisiones que tomen en la sesión tiene la potencial de reducir los servicios educativos que brindamos a nuestros alumnos. Nos hemos estado comunicando con los legisladores para avisarles cómo la reducción en ingresos estatales impactaría al distrito. Por favor observen las medidas legislativas en enero y pónganse en contacto con sus diputados estatales y comparten con ellos sus preguntas y preocupaciones con respecto a financiamiento educativo. Atentamente, Dra. Wanda Bamberg Superintendente de Escuelas Voluntarios de todo el distrito escolar participaron en el evento. Se reunieron en seis escuelas del AISD — escuelas secundarias Aldine, Carver y Eisenhower, Centro de Educación Hall e incluso las escuelas secundarias MacArthur y Nimitz — para una sesión informativa antes caminar las calles del distrito escolar para apoyar el retorno al colegio de desertores escolares. Voluntarios hablaron con 260 desertores escolares y apoderados en sus hogares y en otros 219 domicilios dejaron información sobre cómo pueden rematricularse. El día de la caminata, 30 desertores escolares iniciaron los trámites de matrícula, 29 volvieron a la escuela y 36 prometieron regresar al colegio. Miembros del Consejo Escolar de Aldine, la Superintendente Dra. Wanda Bamberg, miembros del gabinete, directores escolares, docentes y voluntarios comunitarios participaron en el evento anual “Apoyar el Retorno al colegio de desertores escolares”. Miembros del Consejo Escolar de Aldine, integrantes de la comunidad y la Dra. Bamberg, superintendente de escuelas, tomaron parte en el evento. Representantes legislativos y oficiales del distrito escolar discutieron los retos financieros en diciembre. Tareas domicilarias AISD cree que las tareas domicilarias o deberes escolares son parte del programa educativo. Los deberes ayudan a los niños a repasar, practicar e integrar los conocimientos aprendidos en el aula. Los deberes a largo plazo requieren la organización de tiempo para cumplirlos y entregarlos a tiempo. Tareas domicilarias o deberes escolares también incluyen asignaciones en las cuales no se requiere trabajo escrito. Deberán planificar pasar entre una hora (escuela intermedia y media) a 90 minutos (secundaria) todas las noches repasando o practicando y así preparándose para las clases del día siguiente. La política o reglamento de tareas del AISD para todos los niveles puede encontrarse en el Manual para padres y alumnos (Parent/ Student Handbook) y en la página Web, www.aldine.k12.tx.us. OfficeMax, reconoce y premia el esfuerzo por la educación ASF recibe donaciones Treneka Cothron y Lita Killebrew, dos docentes de primaria, recibieron grandes sorpresas el 5 de octubre cuando representantes de OfficeMax las premiaron por sus esfuerzos con material educativo por valor de más de mil dólares para cada una de ellas. Cothron de la Escuela Primaria Conley y Killebrew de la Escuela Primaria Kujawa fueron dos de mil docentes en mil escuelas quienes fueron nominados por sus directores para ser reconocidos durante “Un día hecho mejor,” el proyecto nacional de OfficeMax facilitado por la alianza entre la compañía y Adopt-A-Classroom (Adopta un Aula) para poner fin a los gastos en material educativo de los docentes. OfficeMax trabajó con Adopt-AClassroom para identificar escuelas y docentes en necesidad. Se les pidió a los directores escolares que nominaran un docente que ejemplifica la pasión, dedicación e innovación en el aula. La Directora Katy Roede de la Escuela Primaria Conley nominó a Cothron. “La señora Cothron es totalmente entregada a formar al alumno integralmente”, dijo Roede. “Es entrenadora de los escuadrones de animadoras y animación y es la fundadora de nuestra organización T.I.E. Guys, la cual forma y guía a los chicos a ser verdaderos caballeros. “Es una docente ejemplar quien dedica tiempo y gasta su propio dinero para ayudar a sus alumnos a tener éxito”. La Directora Debra Thomas de la Escuela Primaria Kujawa nominó a Killebrew. “La señora Killebrew trae mucha energía al aula”, dijo Thomas. “Es querida por sus alumnos y respetada por todos. Somos muy afortunados”. Cada caja estaba llena de materiales como colores de cera, rotuladores y bolígrafos. Compras grandes incluyeron una cámara Sony Cyber–Shot de 7.2 megapíxeles, un impresora Epson Stylus, una silla de oficina en piel y una máquina etiquetadora de Brother. Las cajas también incluyeron un material muy valioso en las escuelas: cinco resmas de papel para fotocopiadoras. Killebrew (con las flores) y Thomas figuran en la fotografía con Alcorn, gerente de OfficeMax de la sucursal The Woodlands. Roede (izq.) y Cothron (der.) figuran en la fotografía con Herrera y su personal de OfficeMax de la sucursal FM 1960. “Este fue otro momento educable. Este honor es un verdadero ejemplo de lo que les digo a mis alumnos diariamente: Nunca sabes quien está observando y los esfuerzos valen la pena. Estoy muy agradecida”, dijo Cothron. Killebrew, docente de cuarto grado, fue sorprendida cuando llegó a la biblioteca con su salón de clase. Ahí encontró a su directora y sus colegas reunidos junto con dos representantes de OfficeMax. “Es un gran honor”, dijo Killebrew. “No se que decir. Le sacaremos provecho a los materiales educativos”. OfficeMax y Adopt-A-Classroom desarrollaron el proyecto para proporcionar ayuda económica a los docentes y apoyo para las escuelas. Según las encuestas de OfficeMax (2009) y una de la Asociación Nacional de Educación (2005), docentes gastan un promedio de mil dólares de su propio dinero cada año para compensar los déficits presupuestarios de sus escuelas y asegurar que sus alumnos tengan los recursos necesarios para aprender. Raúl Herrera, gerente de la sucursal OfficeMax en la FM 1960, dijo que él y su personal están orgullosos y felices de ayudar a docentes y por lo tanto los alumnos. “Estamos orgullosos de ser parte del proyecto ‘Un día hecho mejor’ de OfficeMax”, dijo Herrera. “Sé de por lo menos 20 docentes en el área quienes fueron reconocidos. Estos docentes van más allá de la llamada del deber. Esto es una gran oportunidad para reconocer su arduo trabajo y dedicación además de ayudarles con materiales educativos necesarios para aprender”. Marianne Alcorn, gerente de la sucursal en The Woodlands, se hizo eco de los sentimientos de Herrera. “Sabemos que los docentes gastan su propio dinero para comprar materiales educativos para sus alumnos y sus aulas”, declaró Alcorn. “Esto es nuestra manera de decir ‘Gracias’ por el maravilloso trabajo que realizan los docentes diariamente. Estamos muy felices por poder reconocerlos por el papel vital que desempeñan”. Para más información sobre “Un día hecho mejor” o cómo puede ayudar a las escuelas y docentes, visite www.adaymadebetter.com. La Fundación de Becas de Aldine (conocida por las siglas en inglés ASF) recibió dos donaciones. El grupo de Contratistas Asociados de Albañilería de Houston (conocidos por las siglas en inglés AMCH) donó dos mil 500 dólares a la ASF, mientras que el AISD y Lone Star College-North Harris (establecimiento docente de educación terciaria donde se realizan cursos de dos años) donaron 10 mil dólares cada uno. El Dr. Archie Blanson, vicesuperintendente del AISD, aceptó la donación de AMCH cuando acudió una sesión sobre las ventajas económicas y escolásticas que ofrece la construcción en albañilería a los distritos escolares. “El grupo AMCH comparte un objetivo común con los distritos escolares: brindar la mejor educación posible a los alumnos”, dijo Don Vernon, director ejecutivo de AMCH. “Construimos edificios diseñados para ofrecer el mejor entorno educativo posible. Enfatizamos que nuestros servicios ofrecen la fortaleza y seguridad de material a un buen precio”. AISD y Lone Star College-North Harris hicieron sus donaciones durante la reunión del consejo escolar en septiembre. CeCe Sutphen de Lone Star College-North Harris presentó el cheque, mientras el Dr. Keith Clark, superintendente auxiliar de finanzas del AISD, realizó la presentación en nombre del distrito. La Dra. Charlotte Davis, miembro del consejo de la ASF, aceptó el cheque de 20 mil dólares en nombre la fundación. Blake Revels (AMCH), Blanson y Jason Randolph (AMCH) figuran (izq.-der.) en la fotografía. Noticias de Aldine Invierno 2010 Página 3 Requisitos para el ascenso de grado y la graduación El Distrito Escolar de Aldine quiere asegurar que los padres y apoderados (tutores) se mantengan al corriente de los requisitos para que sus hijos se gradúen y puedan participar (caminar para recibir su bachillerato/diploma) con su promoción (clase) en sus respectivas ceremonias de graduación. Además, los padres también necesitan tener al corriente los requisitos para aprobar el grado y ascender al próximo curso. Teniendo esto presente, Noticias de Aldine publicará los requisitos en cada edición. Nivel Secundaria Para graduarse (recibir su bachillerato o diploma) y poder participar en las ceremonias de graduación, los alumnos tienen que cumplir con los siguientes requisitos estatales y del AlSD: • Cumplir todos los deberes para las asignaturas (materias) necesarios para la graduación. • Obtener o lograr el número de créditos académicos necesarios. • Aprobar todas las secciones de la prueba nivel de egreso TAKS (Texas Assessment of Knowledge and Skills; es la prueba de Texas sobre los conocimientos y aptitudes). La prueba de egreso de TAKS incluye cuatro materias: el lenguaje inglés (lingüística), matemática, ciencia y estudios sociales. Los alumnos se presentan al examen de egreso TAKS en la primavera de su penúltimo año de secundaria (11o grado). Los alumnos tendrán varias oportunidades para aprobar todas las materias de la prueba. Al aprobar todas las secciones de la prueba, los alumnos habrán satisfecho el requisito de aprobar todas las secciones de TAKS para poder graduarse y participar en la ceremonia de graduación con su promoción. Una lista completa de los requisitos para la graduación se puede encontrar en el “Guía de planificación para la secundaria” o en la oficina de orientación en la escuela secundaria. Nivel Primaria (Kínder a 4to Grado) Los alumnos tienen que lograr un promedio de 70 o mejor en cada sección de lectura y matemática para poder ascender al próximo grado en la primaria. Además, los alumnos de tercer grado tienen que aprobar la sección de la lectura del examen TAKS para poder aprobar el curso y ser elegible para ascender al próximo grado. Educación Intermedia y Media (5to a 8vo Grado) Los alumnos tienen que lograr un promedio de 70 o mejor en las materias del lenguaje inglés (lingüística), la lectura, matemática, ciencia y los estudios sociales para poder aprobar el curso y ascender al próximo grado. Además, los alumnos de quinto grado tienen que aprobar las secciones de lectura y matemática de la prueba TAKS para ascender al próximo grado. Escuela y Comunidad La primera sesión mensual de Liderazgo Aldine inició en septiembre. ReadMobile entrega libros gratuitos a Hinojosa Bamberg elegida La Librería Móvil Entregamos Libros (We Give Books ReadMobile) visitó a los alumnos del Colegio de Párvulos Hinojosa en noviembre. Representantes de la campaña fomentaron la lectura en los alumnos e incluso pasaron tiempo leyéndoles el libro titulado “Courduroy” por Don Freeman. Los alumnos repitieron palabras claves al seguir las aventuras de Courduroy, el osito de peluche que habla. Hinojosa es una de muchas escuelas en Texas que We Give Books ReadMobile visitó en noviembre. El plan fue entregar más de 30 mil libros de texto gratuitos en 30 días a niños y escuelas. La campaña estatal “We Give Books/Entregamos Libros Gratuitos” es un esfuerzo organizado por la Fundación Pearson junto con Penguin, para equipar a las familias texanas y bibliotecas escolares con libros de copia impresa y libros en línea (Internet) para niños quienes quizás no tienen una biblioteca en casa o acceso a libros. El grupo ha donado más de 81 mil libros alrededor del mundo. We Give Books permite a cualquiera con acceso al Internet a poner libros en manos de los niños leyendo un libro infantil en línea. Por cada libro leído en línea, We Give Books dona un libro a un grupo de alfabetización infantil en los EE.UU. o alrededor del mundo. “La lectura es muy importante en el desarrollo personal,” dijo Mark Nieker, director ejecutivo de la Fundación Pearson. “El llevar a los niños a la biblioteca, comprándoles libros o proporcionarles libros para crear una biblioteca en casa les demuestra Durante el semestre otoñal, la Superintendente Dra. Wanda Bamberg fue elegida a servir de miembro de la mesa redonda de la Cumbre realizada por el noticiero de la NBC, la cual fue celebrada en el Centro Rockefeller en Nueva York. Un grupo de alumnos , la Subdirectora Kelly Domino (centro, última fila), la docente Rosalinda Pérez (izq.) y Melissa Garza (der.), ayudante de docente, figuran en la fotografía. que la lectura es vital. Estudios demuestran que la cantidad de libros que poseen en el hogar está relacionado con el éxito de los niños.” Los alumnos y docentes de Hinojosa también recibieron diversos artículos promocionales como marcos magnéticos, un afiche para actividades y banderines promocionales. Pero el mejor regalo para la escuela y sus alumnos fue los 500 libros que donó We Give Books a la biblioteca escolar. “Cuando oí que We Give Books ReadMobile venía a Hinojosa, ¡me entusiasmé!”, exclamó la Directora Sandra Arredondo. “Durante los últimos cinco años, les hemos proporcionado libros a los alumnos para su biblioteca en casa. Cada año, con la ayuda de nuestra Asociación de Padres de Familia y Profesores, la alianza con negocios y recursos escolares, les hemos proporcionado por lo me- nos 10 libros al año”. “Los libros que donó We Give Books ReadMobile será una adición bienvenida a la biblioteca escolar y las bibliotecas en casa”. We Give Books aspira ayudar a niños pequeños junto con sus familias a comprender el poder de la lectura y el regalo de poner libros en manos de los niños. Niños y familias también pueden conseguir acceso a una colección de libros infantiles digitales para descargar gratis en línea en el sitio Web, www.wegivebooks.com. Para más información sobre la Fundación Pearson y su compromiso con la educación, visite www.pearsonfoundation.org. Lectores también pueden averiguar más sobre Penguin, una de las más grandes editoriales en el mercado de libros, visitando http:// us.penguingroup.com/static/pages/aboutus/index.html. Distrito rinde honor a Aviadores Tuskegee Continuación de página 1 en ponerle fin al sistema de segregación racial en las fuerzas armadas y de la sociedad americana. Después de la presentación de Gropman, Danielle Burns, la sobrinanieta del Davis, habló en nombre de la familia. Agradeció al consejo escolar por el “honor de ponerle el nombre de su tío abuelo a dos escuelas”. Presentó a miembros de su familia y dijo que su tío abuelo y su familia siempre han reconocido la importancia de la educación. Aunque su tío abuelo pasó apuros, ella dijo que él nunca flaqueó. Compartió con todos presentes el siguiente extracto de la anotación escrita a Davis en su anuario por un compañero de clase cuando se graduó de la Academia Militar West Point. Le escribió: “El valor, la tenacidad y la inteligencia con cual conquistaste un problema incomparable más difícil te ganó la sincera admiración de tus compañeros de clase e incluso tu firme determinación en tu carrera preferida no pueden dejar de inspirar respeto dondequiera que el destino te lleve.” a participar en Cumbre Educativa Nacional También agradeció a los Aviadores Tuskegee por hacer el viaje a Aldine. “Estamos enorgullecidos y nos han dado una lección de humildad con tantos de los hombres quienes sirvieron y entrenaron con mi tío Ben. Al ver a estos orgullosos Aviadores Tuskegee esta noche, les damos las gracias por sus servicio a este país y sabemos que estas escuelas, aunque llevarán el nombre del General Davis, también son testimonio de su valor. Su perseverancia, arduo trabajo y honor siguen fomentando programas en nuestro gran país y por eso, también les rendimos honor”. La diputada Sheila Jackson-Lee estuvo presente en nombre del Congreso de EE.UU. Agradeció a Davis y a los Aviadores Tuskegee por su servicio al país y por ayudar eliminar las barreras raciales. Jackson-Lee también informó que su suegro también fue un Aviador Tuskegee, algo que enorgullece a ella y a su familia. La diputada luego presentó un Acuerdo de la Cámara de Representantes (el Senado) en nombre de los Aviadores Tuskegee al Distrito Escolar de Aldine. Después Wilson agradeció a la colaboración de varios negocios que ayudaron patrocinar el viaje de los Aviadores Tuskegee. La aerolínea Continental donó 50 billetes de ida y vuelta para que pudieran viajar los Aviadores. El Sistema de Aeropuertos de Houston ayudó al AISD a organizar este evento y coordinar la llegada de los Aviadores y los integrantes de la familia Davis además de su visita al Festival Aéreo “Alas Sobre Houston”. InvesTex Credit Union ayudó subscribir los gastos asociados con los Aviadores y sus invitados, y H-E-B proporcionó los bocaditos y refrescos para la recepción, la cual se celebró después de la reunión del consejo escolar. También agradeció a los socios de negocio Clarence Callis y su hijo Clarence Jr. quienes coordinaron la visita y proporcionaron la seguridad. Durante su visita, los Aviadores y su familia visitaron el sitio donde se está construyendo las escuelas que llevarán el nombre del General Davis. Bamberg tomó parte en la discusión titulada “Eliminar la brecha educativa: ¿Es la educación el tema principal de hoy en día en derechos civiles?” Roland Fryer, un catedrático de la Universidad Harvard y director de EdLabs; Benjamin Todd Jealous, presidente de la Asociación Nacional Para el Avance de la Gente de Color; Michael Lomax, presidente del Fondo Universitario de Afroamericanos Unidos; Janet Murguía, presidenta del Consejo Nacional de La Raza; y Michael Nutter, alcalde de Filadelfia, también tomaron parte. La Cumbre Educativa Nacional del noticiero de la NBC fue la atracción principal de la campaña “Nación Educativa”. Se reunieron diseñadores de política, oficiales elegidos, líderes de pensamiento, educadores, personas de negocios y ciudadanos interesados e involucrados en la educación para discutir los retos, soluciones potenciales e innovaciones en el área de educación. Preguntas y Respuestas Esperamos que les guste esta edición de Noticias de Aldine. Si tiene preguntas o comentarios sobre la información aquí, nuestras escuelas u operaciones, llame al (713)756-7855 o visite www.aldine.k12.tx.us/feedback/. El Distrito Escolar de Aldine ofrece programas vocacionales y técnicos en educación agrícola, estudios de comercio, orientación profesional y vocacional, estudios de hogar y gestión (consumo), estudios de la tecnología en la salud, formación para hotelería y servicios, educación en mercadeo, educación técnica, formación de oficio, y preparación para tecnología industrial. La admisión a estos programas se basa en la habilidad, interés, nivel de grado y tamaño de la clase. Según la política del Distrito Escolar de Aldine, se prohíbe discriminar en base de raza, color, religión, origen nacional, sexo o discapacidad en sus programas vocacionales, servicios o actividades tal como exige el Título VI de la Ley de Derechos Civiles de 1964, según la enmienda; el Título IX de las Enmiendas Educacionales de 1972; y el Artículo 504 de la Ley de Rehabilitación de 1973, según la enmienda. El Distrito Escolar de Aldine observa todos los principios de igualdad en el empleo tal como exige el Título VI de la Ley de Derechos Civiles de 1964, según la enmienda; el Título IX de las Enmiendas de Educación de 1972, según la enmienda; la Ley Contra Discriminación Por Razón de Edad de 1975, según la enmienda; y el Artículo 504 de la Ley de Rehabilitación de 1973, según la enmienda. El Distrito Escolar de Aldine tomará las medidas necesarias para asegurar que la falta de destrezas en el idioma inglés no sea una barrera para la admisión y participación en todos los programas educacionales y vocacionales. Para más información sobre sus derechos o el sistema de trámite de quejas, póngase en contacto con el Coordinador de Título IX, el Dr. Archie Blanson, vicesuperintendente del AISD, 14910 Aldine Westfield Road, o llámele por teléfono al (281)985-6318 o comuníquese con la Coordinadora del Artículo 504, la Dra. Charlotte J. Davis, directora de orientación, asistencia psicopedagógica y de alumnos en riesgo de la deserción escolar del AISD, 14909 Aldine Westfield Road, o llámele por teléfono al (281)985-6472. El AISD no discrimina contra personas en base de raza, religión, origen nacional, edad, sexo, discapacidad, y estado económico o falta de destrezas en el idioma inglés en el empleo, promoción o programas educacionales. Cualquier queja o agravio que no se puede resolver al nivel escolar por el director/a, puede ser sometida por escrito al Dr. Archie Blanson, vicesuperintendente del AISD, 14910 Aldine Westfield Road, Houston, TX 77032. Noticias de Aldine Otoño 2010 Página 4 Escuela y Comunidad Visit www.aldine.k12.tx.us Equipos de campo a traviesa de MacArthur se destacan Linares de MacArthur El equipo de campo a traviesa masculino de MacArthur ganó el título del Distrito 18- recibe beca universitaria 5A mientras que el equipo femenino terminó en segundo lugar en la liga. Ambos equipos avanzaron al Encuentro de la Región 3, pero no al encuentro estatal. En otros deportes de la temporada otoñal, el equipo femenino de volíbol de Eisenhower terminó en segundo lugar en el Distrito 18-5A con un récord de 10-3 (24-13 récord de temporada) y avanzó al primer partido de los playoffs de la Categoría 5A. MacArthur también logró llegar a los playoffs terminando en cuarto lugar con un récord de 7-5 (11-20 récord de temporada). En fútbol americano, Eisenhower terminó en segundo lugar en el Distrito 18-5A con un récord de 5-1 y avanzó a la primera vuelta de los playoffs de la Categoría 5A. Eisenhower terminó 6-5 en la temporada. Los equipos de campo a traviesa de la Escuela Secundaria MacArthur figuran en la fotografía. El equipo masculino terminó en primer lugar en el encuentro del Distrito 18-5A mientras que el equipo femenino terminó en segundo lugar. Escuela Secundaria Aldine, Nailor obtiene beca El jugador de fútbol americano Galen Nailor (con playera rayada) estuvo presente con integrantes de su familia y miembros de la organización de los Houston Texans cuando lo nombraron el ganador de la Beca Para Campeones de Reliant Energy. Nailor recibirá una beca de cinco mil dólares. Galen fue uno de ocho alumnos atletas de escuelas secundarias en el área de Houston quienes fueron nombrados ganadores de la beca. Galen y los otros siete destinatarios fueron honorados con la presentación de cheques antes del juego de los Texans el 28 de noviembre contra los Titanes de Tennessee en el Estadio Reliant. Rashad Butler, el linero ofensivo de los Houston Texans; JoEtta Coleman, la madrina de Galen; su padre Joe Nailor, su madre Gail Edmond Nailor y J.J. Moses, embajador de los Houston Texans figuran en la fotografía. Se les concedió las becas a Galen y a los Linares, quien juega en la posición del campocorto para MacArthur, fue Nueva Jugadora del Año en 2008 del Distrito 19-5A, jugadora por dos años consecutivos del primer equipo del All-District y fue nombrada al Equipo de Sófbol de Houston después de la temporada de 2010. Figurando en la fotografía, primer fila (izq.-der.): el entrenador de sófbol James Grotenhuis y su padre Rolando Linares. Última fila (izq.-der.): entrenador auxiliar Bubba Delk, la Directora Nancy Blackwell; Bernie Mulvaney, coordinador deportivo de la escuela, y la consejera escolar Denise Keeton. Escuela Media Lewis, ceremonia de dedicación otros destinatarios a base de su logro académico, su involucración comunitaria y su habilidad atlética. Galen tiene la más alta calificación de su promoción de más de 660 alumnos, sirve a su comunidad de voluntario y fue capitán y un ala defensiva titular para los Potros de Aldine. NIAAA rinde honor a Mader por su servicio Sandra Mader, directora de los servicios deportivos del AISD, fue una de nueve personas quienes recibieron el Galardón “Servicio Distinguido” de 2010 de la Asociación Nacional Interescolástica de Administradores Deportivos (conocida por las siglas en inglés NIAAA) por sus aportaciones a los deportes interescolásticos. Mader y los otros destinatarios fueron honrados el 9 de diciembre en Orlando, Florida, durante un banquete celebrado durante la Conferencia Nacional de Directores Deportivos conjuntamente con la Federación Nacional de Asociaciones Estatales de Escuelas Secundarias y la NIAAA. El galardón es presentado a miembros de NIAAA en reconocimiento de sus años de servicio, logros y aportaciones especiales a los deportes interescolásticos a nivel local, estatal y nacional. Nominaciones son presentadas por las asociaciones estatales de directores deportivos e incluso evaluados por el Comité de Galardones y seleccionados por la Junta Directiva de la NIAAA. Una egresada de la Universidad Estatal Sam Houston, Mader emprendió su carrera en 1987 en la Escuela Secundaria North Shore donde fue la entrenadora de sófbol varsity y entrenadora auxiliar de baloncesto. La jugadora de sófbol Linda Linares de la Escuela Secundaria MacArthur (sentada), fichó jugar para la Universidad Estatal Stephen F. Austin el 10 de noviembre. Linares es alumna de último año de MacArthur. Después sirvió de directora auxiliar de deportes y entrenadora de sófbol en la Escuela Secundaria Alvin. Luego asumió las responsabilidades de directora escolar y directora de deportes de la escuela de noveno grado en el Distrito Escolar de Galveston. Mader sirvió en la Junta Directiva de la NIAAA en el período de 2003 a 2005, y también fue miembro del Comité de planificación Estratégica de la NIAAA. Al nivel estatal, uno de los logros más importantes de Mader fue su trabajo en la Liga Interescolástica Universitaria en agregar el lanzamiento rápido de sófbol como un deporte en las escuelas secundarias. Ayudó al Consejo de la Asociación de Entrenadores de Equipos Femeninos de Escuelas Secundarias de Texas (THSGCA) a incluir entrenadores de sófbol como miembros y también ayudó introducir el sófbol al juego Todas Estrellas. También sirvió de secretaria de la Junta Directiva de Asociación de Directores Deportivos de Escuelas Secundarias de Texas (THSADA) y sirvió en varios comités. Mader ha sido iniciada en la Sala de Fama de la Asociación de Deportes Especializados de EE.UU. y la Sala de Fama de Deportes Especializados de Texas además de la Sala de Honor de THSGCA. También ha sido iniciada en la sala de fama de su escuela secundaria — la Escuela Secundaria Triton Regional en Runnemeda, Nueva Jersey. Continuación de página 1 en sus comentarios quienes acudieron la ceremonia de dedicación. “Agradecemos que nuestros caminos hayan cruzado”, dijo ella. La señora Lewis también agradeció al AISD por rendirles este gran honor. “Al Consejo Escolar de Aldine y a todos ustedes les agradecemos por este maravilloso tributo”, ella dijo. “A nuestros familiares, amistades, ex colegas, personal de la Escuela Media Lewis, alumnos y padres, gracias a todos por compartir sus vidas con nosotros. Cada uno de nosotros desempeña un papel vital en la vida de un niño. Debemos seguir siendo docentes de corazón”. El señor Lewis también reconoció a varios individuos, compartió historias divertidas durante sus años en el distrito escolar y agradeció al liderazgo del AISD por ser la fuerza impulsora que ha dirigido al distrito escolar durante los últimos 40 años. “Fuimos dirigidos por las creencias comunes que han estado presentes en el AISD desde el comienzo”, él dijo. “Esas creencias comunes fueron establecidas por la comunidad, la cual es representada por el consejo escolar. Los nombres, las caras y sexo de los miembros del consejo escolar han cambiado durante los últimos 40 años, pero no las creencias comunes. Hablando claramente esas creencias son: ocupar los mejores docentes y seguir formándolos, educar a nuestros niños y prepararlos para tener éxito e incluso gastar el dinero de los contribuyentes prudentemente”. También retó a Cassandra Cosby, la directora de la escuela, y a su personal de encargarse de desarrollar plenamente la potencial de los alumnos. “A la señora Cosby y su personal, adhiéranse a la visión del AISD y formen a los mejores alumnos del país. Esto abrirá las puertas de la oportunidad para estos jóvenes y enriquecerá sus vidas. A nuestro consejo escolar y plantilla administrativa, gracias por permitirnos servir en Aldine. Nunca deja de asombrarme de ver todo lo que hacen para los alumnos del distrito escolar. Gracias por su dedicación y por su corazón de servidor. Gracias por este honor”. La ceremonia de dedicación inició con José Almendarez, subdirector de la escuela, quien dio la bienvenida y seguido por Ben Wilson, superintendente auxiliar de relaciones comunitarias y gubernamentales, quien sirvió de presentador. La presentación de colores fue seguido por el juramento de lealtad a los EE.UU. y su bandera dirigidos por los alumnos Gregory Goods, Jordyn Quirit y Annele Swanson. El Pastor Erroll Jerome Sweat, un bachiller de la Escuela Secundaria Aldine, dio la invocación, mientras que Cosby dio el discurso de dedicación. El coro cantó dos canciones. Y el Dr. Alton Smith, miembro del Consejo Escolar de Aldine dio una presentación sobre el nombramiento de la escuela. La alumna Kathryn Neuman, Karen Barnes, miembro del personal escolar; y la madre Rachel Goods aceptaron la escuela en nombre de todos quienes asistirán y trabajarán en la escuela. La pareja Lewis agradeció a todos y el subdirector Torrance Brooks dio una presentación especial. La inauguración del retrato de los Lewises fue realizado por el alumno Deon Sinquefield, la docente Rhonda Guitroz y Michael Gallien (Gallien recientemente se jubiló en diciembre de 2010.), director de la Escuela Media Teague. La ceremonia concluyó con comentarios de la Dra. Wanda Bamberg, superintendente de escuelas.
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