Creating a monster for the cure: 
GHS Night Owl Players present ‘Young Frankenstein’

Posted October 10, 2010

A rendition of Mel Brooks’ and Gene Wilder’s “Young Frankenstein” will be performed the week of Halloween by the GHS Theatre Department.  It will make for a unique Halloween experience with 30% of the gross proceeds going to Race for the Cure.  Come out and support Creating a Monster for the Cure Oct. 27 and 29 at 7 p.m., Oct. 28 at 4 p.m., and Oct. 29 and 30 at 10 p.m.  Tickets are $7 in advance, $10 at the door. 

This group of more than 70 students wants to educate and give back to a group whose cause hits close to home.  GHS has two teachers and an administrator’s wife currently suffering from breast cancer, and they are also blessed to have survivors.   

Mrs. Hensleigh-Parsons, student activities director and art teacher, was diagnosed in 2009 and has gone through two rounds of chemo, recently had surgery, and will soon begin radiation.  Upon returning to school last fall, she was determined to raise awareness.  She began Pink Out Week at GHS, and seeing so many organizations contributing to the cause was a liberating experience.  She wants to educate people about the effects of breast cancer, honor survivors, and celebrate the memories of those who did not survive.  “My experience the last year has been like riding a roller coaster.  With every down there has been an up,” Hensleigh-Parsons said. 

Mrs. Ann Palmer, who currently teaches physics, was diagnosed in April and is currently undergoing chemotherapy.  She will begin radiation next month.  Palmer doesn’t mind sharing her experiences.  “I want to educate people; I have no problem talking about it,” she said.

Mr. Merkel, an assistant principal, is currently on the outside looking in, as his wife was diagnosed with breast cancer in August.  It was a surprise since she is only in her mid-40’s.  It has taken a toll on their family life, as the couple has 4-year-old old twin girls.  Balancing everyday has become more hectic.  “It’s not facing it, it’s dealing with it and moving on.  The support of Garland High School has been so prominent, but it’s never easy, no matter how much support you have,” Mrs. Merkel said.

Mrs. Colón, an English and creative writing teacher, was diagnosed in 2000 and is in her tenth year of remission. She had actually had a mammogram, and it was not until three months later that she found the lump herself.  Mrs. Colón had seven years of chemo, and it was the support of her family, friends, and her school that got her through.  “It’s a long fight, and people forget about you…at this school, they don’t forget,” she said.  The experience brought her even closer to her family, and every year on April 1, her diagnosis date, she and her family celebrate life.

Mrs. Estes, secretary of John Morris, GHS principal, has been at the school since 1984.  She was diagnosed with cancer at the age of 39. She had three surgeries: the first in 1982, then 1986, and the last in 1990.  It was in 1990 that her mother was also diagnosed with breast cancer. Losing her mom in 1992 was harder than having breast cancer herself.  It changed her perspective, and she said that it helped her become more compassionate.  Family, faith, and friendships became more important to her.  Mrs. Estes encourages mammograms, and self exams, especially for young women.

Night Owl Players produces several shows each year to spread theatre to the student body and community.  This presentation is the first GHS play to benefit such a prominent organization, and it is an honor for them to help educate and spread awareness. 

For reservations call 972-494-8492 ext. 60053 or email tschuber@garlandisd.net.  Performances are at the GHS Auditorium, 310 S. Garland Avenue.  This play is the movie version, not the musical and is rated PG-13.

GHS raises money for the cure

Kim Everett | October 2, 2010

The faculty and students at Garland High School continued their involvement in the fight against breast cancer this week with several activities.  On Thursday, September 30, the Fashion and Design Club sponsored a Pink Out Fashion Show during all four lunch periods.

Students could pay $2 to walk or dance their way down a runway decorated in pink.  Everyone had a great time strutting their stuff, and most were dressed in pink for the occasion. 

In addition to the fashion show, there were Hooter Rooter t-shirts for sale along with Cure for a Teacher shirts, pink bandanas, wristbands, and yard signs.

At the Thursday evening varsity football game, Homer B. Johnson stadium was decorated, and representatives from Baylor-Garland Hospital were available to visit with women about scheduling mammograms.  Many fans were dressed in pink, and the Dashing Debs did a special halftime show.

The Business Professionals of America sponsored a Longest Beard Contest, and male students could buy a “beard license” in advance for $5.  The beards were judged on Friday.  All week, teachers were able to wear jeans if they made a donation.

The cause is close to the hearts of students and staff at GHS.  Many of them have family members and friends affected by the disease, and there are also several staff members at GHS have fought it or are currently waging battles against it.

Student Activities Director Melanie Hensleigh-Parsons and Ann Palmer are fighting now, and Sugar Estes and Rochelle Colon are survivors.

GHS Softball Coach Cindy Mosteller, who has been involved in this project for two years, said that it is an honor to be a part of it.  She credited Hensleigh-Parsons for planning all the activities.

“It just makes me so proud to be a Garland Owl when I see all the support our students and faculty give,” Mosteller said.

In addition to this week’s activities, the Performing Arts Department will donate a portion of tickets sales to their upcoming production of “Young Frankenstein,” which will run from Oct. 27-30.

Swingsters of the Week

Kim Everett | October 2, 2010

Chelsea Berch

Chelsea Berch knew she wanted to be a Sachse Swingster the first time she saw them perform as an eighth grader.  As a senior, she is currently in her third year on drill team.

She will always cherish the friendships and memories she has made in Swingsters.  Her friends are the most important thing she has gained from participating in drill team.

Bailey Trousdale

GISD students named semifinalists in

2011 National Merit Scholarship Program

Posted September 27, 2010

The names of approximately 16,000 semifinalists in the 56^th annual National Merit Scholarship Program were announced by officials of National Merit Scholarship Corporation.

These high school seniors have an opportunity to continue in the competition for some 8,400 National Merit Scholarships, worth more than $36 million, that will be offered next spring. To be considered for a Merit Scholarship award, semifinalists must fulfill several requirements to advance to the finalist level of the competition.

About 90 percent of the semifinalists are expected to attain finalist standing, and approximately half of the finalists will win a National Merit Scholarship, earning the Merit Scholar title.

NMSC, a not-for-profit organization that operates without government assistance, was established in 1955 specifically to conduct the annual National Merit Scholarship Program.

GISD Semifinalists

Garland High School

Brooks, Briana D.
Cain, Bryan C.

Denker, Mark E.

Hamati, John S.

Medlock, Lacey L.
Ogbonnaya, Kenneth A.

Rivera, Luis A.

Naaman Forest High School

Cizek, Giles K.

Koo, Tim K.

North Garland High School

Badejo, Olufunmilayo M.
Murray, Ehren J.

Rowlett High School

Clark, Darius T.
Harrison, Joshua O.
Trieu, Rich K.

Sachse High School

Teasdale, Katherine R.

Walnut Glen Academy receives
Summer Reading Award

Posted September 26, 2010

The Nicholson Memorial Library System awarded its annual summer reading award, The Nicholson Cup, to Walnut Glen Academy for Excellence for the fourth consecutive summer. The award honors the Garland area elementary school with the largest percentage of its student population registered for the Library’s Summer Reading Program.

One hundred seventy-seven students from Walnut Glen Academy, 42% of its student population, participated in the reading program this year. Hillside Academy came in second with 98 children (22%) who signed up.  In third place was Beaver Technology Center with 89 children (16%) who participated.

Garland Mayor Ronald Jones and State Representative Angie Chen Button presented the award to Walnut Glen Academy Principal Sylvia McCloskey, School Librarian Cherlyn Walters, and their students on Monday, Sept. 13, during the school’s first assembly. Also present were Walnut Glen Academy’s Assistant Principal Tyisha Nelson, Director of Libraries for the Nicholson Memorial Library System Claire Bausch, Walnut Creek Branch Library Manager Becky Crow, and Walnut Creek Branch Library Children’s Librarian Sara Ross.

The name of the winning school is engraved on the Nicholson Cup and is displayed at the winning school for one month.  Then the award will be exhibited at the Nicholson Memorial Library System’s Central Library and at the other branch libraries throughout the year. 

Swingsters of the Week

Kim Everett | September 26, 2010

Laura Hutchison

Senior Laura Hutchison has been involved in Swingsters for 2 years.  She became interested the first time she saw them perform at a game.

In addition to Swingsters, Laura participates in Beta Club, National Honor Society, and her church youth group, and the most important thing that she has learned from being in drill team is responsibility.

Laura’s favorite subject Algebra 2, and after high school graduation she plans to attend Texas A&M and major in sports management and become a sportscaster.

Kaysie Clem

This is sophomore Kaysie Clem’s first year in Swingsters.  She has always enjoyed dance, and participating in Lariats and Swingsters was a way that she could continue dancing outside of her studio.

Kaysie enjoys volunteering in the children's ministry at her church, and the most important thing she has gained from Swingsters is confidence.

English is her favorite subject, and after high school she plans to study elementary education in college and have a career as a second grade English teacher.

Rachel’s Challenge motivates students
toward kindness, compassion

Kim Everett | September 19, 2010 -- Photos by Leanza Bethel

Cody Hodges, former NFL player and current spokesperson for Rachel’s Challenge, visited Garland High School last week with an important message.  The Rachel’s Challenge program is based on the acts of kindness and compassion, along with the contents of six diaries of Rachel Scott, the first student killed at Columbine High School on April 20, 1999.

Along with a description of what happened on that tragic day, Hodges also used actual video clips of the shootings and audio of some of the teachers’ 911 calls to bring home a message of compassion and kindness.  During the program, students are encouraged to make positive changes in the way they treat others and given ideas about how to use what they learn in their everyday lives.

Students were obviously shocked and uncomfortable during parts of the assembly, and tears were shed.  According to Leanza Bethel, President of GHS Friends of Rachel, that is exactly what the presentation is meant to do.  “There was a handful of students that chose to pretend that it had no effect on them; however, I believe that they were just embarrassed because perhaps they live the lifestyle that Rachel fought to change,” Leanza said.

The program has been in existence for four years at GHS and is growing quickly.  Leanza enjoys being the president of the organization and credits Student Activities Director, Melanie Hensleigh-Parsons, for her interest in it.

“In my freshman year, I heard about this new club, Friends of Rachel, because of the wonderful Mrs. Hensleigh-Parsons. In that particular year, her daughter was a senior, and all of her friends came with her to the FOR meetings,” Leanza said.  “However, when graduation came, suddenly, everything plopped right into my hands.  From then on, I was the president of this newly founded club. I made some calls, got some friends involved and the club shot towards the sky after that.”

“The best thing is that even if I’m doing Rachel’s Challenge alone, I have the satisfaction of knowing that I made someone’s day, made someone feel a little better, maybe even saved someone’s life, as Rachel did,” Leanza said.

The organization holds a number of events during the school year.  A few of the past events include Hearts for Haiti, Project Daniel, a fundraiser to help pay for eye surgery for a GHS alumnus, and Chain Links of Kindness, a battle between classes to determine which is the kindest.  They send letters of recognition to all school staff, and show compassion when they are aware of fellow students going through difficult experiences.

They also have monthly Mix-It-Up days at lunch where they sit with people they do not know in an effort to become friends with them, break boundaries, and eliminate prejudices.  In addition, they get invited to the Yavneh Academy for the national Mix-It-Up day every year where they listen to speakers and meet other students.

Swingster of the Week

Kim Everett | September 19, 2010

Adrianna Perez is a senior and has been on the Sachse High School Swingsters drill team for two years.  She is also on the school’s debate team, director of her church’s youth drama team, and third and fourth grade Sunday school teacher.

Adrianna’s participation in drill team has taught her to push past her comfort zone and work hard for what she wants.  Her favorite subject is history because she enjoys learning about the past and about different cultures and religions.

She would encourage other girls to participate in drill team because it provides good leadership skills, and the determination that is learned in drill team will help them be more determined in achieving other goals. 

Swingsters of the week

Kim Everett | September 12, 2010

Kayla Morrow

Sachse High School sophomore Kayla Morrow has been with the Swingsters for one year.  She joined drill team because she wanted to continue dancing, which she started at Brandenburg Middle School. 

She enjoys participating in her youth group, high school choir, and discipleship classes at her church.  Kayla says that the most important things she has gained from participating in Swingsters are respect for everyone on the team and friendships that will last a lifetime.

After high school, she hopes to attend the University of Mary Hardin Baylor and pursue a career either in music or seminary.  Sarah said that she owes all of her talent to God, since He is the one who gave it to her.

Sarah Shipley

Sarah Shipley, whose interest in drill team was sparked by a neighbor, has been participating in the Sachse High School Swingsters for three years.

According to Sarah, the most important thing that she has learned is how to efficiently manage her time.  She’s grateful for all the friends she has made through Swingsters, and she knows that they will be friends for life.   

Swingsters of the week

Kim Everett | September 6, 2010

Krystal Brown

In her second year as a Sachse High School Swingster, Krystal is a Junior Sergeant.  She became interested in Swingsters when they first started because some of her brothers’ friends were on the drill team.

In addition to Swingsters, Krystal enjoys participating in her church choir and True Praise.  She says that one of the most important things she has learned through participating in Swingsters is determination.  History is Krystal’s favorite subject, and she’d like to study law in college after high school graduation. 

Chelsey Palmquist

Junior Sergeant Chelsey Palmquist is in her second year as a Swingster.  She says that the friends she has made and learning about time management are the most important things she has gained from Swingsters. 

Local student wins Jethsuby Fund, Catholic Foundation scholarship

Posted September 3, 2010

The beginning of the school year means the end of water parks, camp, and summer vacation, but one deserving group of students received a surprise that has given them a running start and new-found motivation for this academic year.

Garland’s Salma Aleman, seventh-grader at Good Shepherd Catholic School, was among the eight students in the first group to receive Jethsuby Fund scholarships.

“Salma was beyond excited and felt extremely motivated because of this scholarship award,” said Andres Aleman, father of a scholarship recipient. “She’s beginning to see that her hard work and effort are paying off, and she knows she has to continue giving everything her all.”

The Jethsuby Scholarship Fund of The Catholic Foundation awarded eight Hispanic elementary school students scholarships to attend Catholic schools within the Diocese of Dallas, in its first round of scholarship disbursements.

The Jethsuby Scholarship Fund was created by Dr. and Mrs. Mauricio Delgado through The Catholic Foundation in December 2009 with the mission to provide Hispanic students the necessary resources to obtain a Catholic education.          

“The start of a new academic year is a very busy and exciting time, and this news brings with it a sense of pride and encouragement for the recipients and their families,” said Dr. Mauricio Delgado, director of neurology at Texas Scottish Rite Hospital for Children and professor of neurology at The University of Texas Southwestern Medical Center at Dallas.  “This first disbursement of scholarship awards through the Jethsuby Fund has proven successful in honoring and motivating eight young superstars, and we look forward to recognizing more students’ hard work and success as we grow the fund.”

The students were nominated by their respective school principals based on academic performance, character, and participation in school activities, and selected by a committee comprised of professionals from within the Diocese. The recipients each received a scholarship that will cover up to 50 percent of tuition for one academic year. 

This fall, the fund will host a concert fundraiser featuring international recording artists, Son by Four, as well as the local music ministry Hermanos Fuego Nuevo and a special appearance by Alberto Mayagoitia. This event will take place on October 16 at 7:00 p.m. at the Special Events Center in Garland. Tickets will be available beginning Friday, September 3 at www.specialeventscenter.com.

Dr. Delgado named the Jethsuby Scholarship Fund after a child he knew whom he thought would have benefited from attending Catholic school. A son of Mexican immigrants, Jethsuby died at the age of 11 years in a motor vehicle accident. Dr. and Mrs. Delgado decided to help other children interested in attending Catholic school whose families faced financial obstacles, in honor of Jethsuby. 

Sachse Swingsters learn valuable lessons from drill team experience

Kim Everett | August 29, 2010

Lee Valdivia is enjoying her first year as a Sachse Swingster.  She also likes participating in theatre activities and dance classes outside of school.
 
Through participation in drill team, Lee has learned respect, confidence, and how to perform.  “But, the most important lesson I have learned is to never give up on myself, and to keep trying for what I really want,” she said.  
 
She is in her junior year, and her favorite subjects are math and theatre.  After high school, Lee hopes to go to college in either Texas or California to get her degree in the math or science field.

”There are several people who helped me get to where I am now on drill team and as a dancer and performer,” Lee said.  “I don't think I could have done this without them, and I am very thankful for all of their help, time, support and confidence in me.”

Breanna Connel is a senior and is in her third year with the Swingsters, along with being a member of  the Beta Club. 

“The most important thing I have gained from Swingsters is my friends,” Breanna said.  “I know that I always have someone, especially my best friend.  She's there with me everyday.”

Psychology has been her favorite high school subject so far, and she hopes to attend Texas A&M Commerce and major in business.

“Thank you to every Swingster and Shaver.  You have made drill team and high school a wonderful experience,” Breanna said.

Kendyl Bradford is a senior and has been involved with Swingsters since her sophomore year.  She took dance lessons at Brandenburg Middle School, and found what she loved to do. “I always looked up to the varsity drill team since my sister attended the Sachse Charter Class,” Kendyl said.

She works with a non-profit organization that allows people to pick two sponsors and a charity to which those sponsors donate, and Kendyl’s charity donates water to villages and towns in Africa.

“I have met so many wonderful people being involved with Swingsters. These girls are forever locked into my heart,” she said. “But I have also learned many valuable lessons that I can take with me throughout my lifetime.”

After high school, Kendyl will move to Sweden with her parents and older sister where she will work toward a degree in business.

Marissa Walden is a junior and in her third year of drill team.  She is also going to join the Spanish Club and the Light Brigade this year, and she volunteers occasionally for various Christian art shows and Sharing Life.

“The most important thing I have learned from this activity is to be patient,” Marissa said.  “Just because you want to be able to do something doesn't mean you automatically get in, you must practice every day.”

Marissa is fascinated by how other people and cultures lived before us, so her favorite subject is history. 

After high school graduation, she hopes to intern somewhere in Europe for a year, then go to college so that she can have a career in international business or as a museum art curator. 

Danielle Dona is a Baby Swingster this year, meaning that it is her first year to participate in drill team.  She started dancing at age five has been dancing ever since. 

“When you work hard you can achieve many things,” Danielle said.  “I feel a sense of accomplishment when I achieve my goal and work to achieve it.”

History is her favorite subject.  “It is through history that we can learn from other people's mistakes,” she said.  “If there was no history then everyone would make the same mistakes over and over.”

In addition to drill team, Danielle is active in her church, and she plans to attend college and become a forensic scientist.
 

GHS Dashing Debs’ dress sale

Posted September 19, 2010

On Saturday, September 25, Garland High School’s Dashing Debs will hold their annual Dress Sale from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. The Debs will have “barely used” social and evening dresses in a wide range of sizes at extremely low prices. Shoes and accessories will also be available. 

A portion of each sale will go to the Dashing Debs Booster Club, with the remainder going to the Deb.  Each girl will determine the cost of the items she brings.  Some of the dresses that are not sold will be donated to the Prom Shop Project. 

This is a great opportunity to get the perfect dress for upcoming homecoming dances, winter balls, proms, and eighth grade banquets.  Come and bring a friend to find the dresses just right for you. Everyone is invited to shop.

If you have a dress or dresses you would like to donate to the Dashing Debs for the sale, please contact Vicki Ludlow at vkludlow@msn.com.

Depending on the weather, the sale will either be in the GHS commons or Debs gym. 

Great dresses, low prices.  What an opportunity!

NFHS cheerleaders enjoy busy summer

Submitted by Jerri Frey -- August 20, 2010

The 2010-11 Naaman Forest High School varsity, junior varsity, and freshman cheerleaders had a busy summer.  They started off at the National Cheerleaders Association camp held at the University of North Texas June 7-10 and received several awards.   

The varsity squad received the Game Day Top Award and 12 were nominated for All American.  Individual cheerleaders that were designated All-American were Lauren Basye, Reagan Elam, Cherie Ichu, Christina Frey and Kendall Roden.  Varsity squad members are Lauren Basye, Mackenzie Braak, Christina Cook, Tori Crowe, Reagan Elam, Christina Frey, Cherie Ichu, Shelby Lancin, Kendall Roden, Morgan Speir, Hailee Walker, and Haley Werner.

The junior varsity squad was awarded the Herkie Award and seven were nominated for All American.  JV cheerleaders who were designated All-American were Brittney Leonard, Christin Rupert, Kayla Thomas and Shelby Thornton.  Squad members are Jamie Baum, Madison Blacker, Tiffani Hamilton, Brittney Leonard, Christin Rupert, Jillian Sheets, Kayla Thomas, and Shelby Thornton.

The freshman squad was awarded the Performance Top Team and 10 of the girls were nominated for All American.  All-American freshman cheerleaders were Kelsey Bates, Courtney Crawford, Lauren Nicol and Sarah Walker.  Squad members are Kelsey Bates, Laura Bonatti, Courtney Crawford, Kristin Larson, Jessie Mabry, Lauren Nicol, Amanda Pownall, Gabrielle Thomas, Sarah Walker, and Daria White.

In July, the cheerleaders participated in the Colts Melvin Bullitt Third Annual Sports Festival.  The festival offered instruction in football while promoting academic achievement, physical fitness, and a drug free lifestyle for area youth.  The festival kicked off on Friday evening with the Amazing Race Event, where the winning team consisted of NFHS cheerleaders Kendall Roden and Reagan Elam.

In August, all squad members and the cheer booster club hosted a GCDTA Pep Club Cheer Clinic, where they taught cheers, chants, and a dance to approximately 240 girls.  They also performed at the Ranger Wilderness Camp pep rally to welcome the newest Rangers.

Varsity sponsor is Kristi Boyd. JV sponsor is Kristie Smoot, and freshman sponsor is Lesa Young-Atkinson.

NFHS welcomes 250 freshmen at Fish Camp

Kim Everett | August 13, 2010

Naaman Forest High School welcomed 250 freshmen to its Ranger Wilderness Camp, more commonly known as Fish Camp, on Wednesday, August 11.

During the orientation, upperclassmen helped incoming ninth-graders by sharing the basics about what they will need to know on the first day of school and how to find their way around. 

The NFHS band, cheerleaders, Lumberjacks, drill team members, and of course, Ranger Rick, were on hand to entertain and welcome the newcomers at a special pep rally.

“Fish Camp is important because it gives the freshmen an idea of how to get around so they aren’t completely lost on the first day,” said NFHS junior Natalie Gallion.  “They also get to experience their first high school pep rally.”

Natalie’s advice to freshmen is to treat the upperclassmen with respect.  “If you act like you’re ‘all that,’ they will make your life harder,” she said.  “They seem intimidating at first, but once you get to know everyone, it’s not a big deal anymore.”

She also advises incoming freshmen to get involved in a lot of activities because that is one of the best ways to get to know people and make friends.

High school students can apply for
Congressional Youth Advisory Council

McCall Avery, Office of U.S. Congressman Sam Johnson | August 12, 2010

Today U.S. Congressman Sam Johnson (3rd Dist.-Texas) officially launched the 2010-2011 Congressional Youth Advisory Council when he invited students in his district to apply for the group.  The CYAC is open to high school freshmen, sophomores, juniors, and seniors who are enrolled in public, private, and home schools.  Applications can be found in the student section on www.samjohnson.house.gov.  Students have until Friday, September 17 to apply.

“As a former Prisoner of War in Vietnam for nearly seven years, more than half of that time in solitary confinement, I take the bounty of America and service to this country very seriously.  America’s democracy and liberty – and the many blessings that come with them – like freedom of speech and the freedom to vote – were bought with a price.  People all over the world do not enjoy these same blessings.  I encourage young people to cherish them and thrive by loving and serving America and your community with all of your heart.  Making your voice heard on the CYAC is one way to do that,” said Johnson.

Johnson created the council in 2004 to gain insight from students in his district and to inspire civic-minded young adults to achieve their full potential.  The council meets approximately twice each school semester in the third district.  During the CYAC activities, high-achieving students explore the role citizens, lawmakers, experts, and institutions play in a democracy.

To apply for the CYAC, students must submit the completed application form, a letter of parental permission, a current photo for identification purposes only, a short personal essay, and two letters of recommendation.  Selections are based on leadership ability, academic performance, extra-curricular activities, and community service.  Students must apply (and re-apply) for the CYAC each year and may only serve on the council two of four years between grades 9-12 to ensure as many students may participate as possible. 

To be considered, the completed application must be submitted to Johnson’s office no later than September 17th.

GISD receives ‘recognized’ rating from Texas Education Agency 

Posted August 1, 2010

The Texas Education Agency announced last week that 239 districts and 2,624 schools received “exemplary” ratings.  To achieve this rating, at least 90 percent of a district’s or school’s students passed the Texas Assessment of Knowledge and Skills, 95 percent of high school students either graduated on time or continued high school for a fifth year, and the district had an annual middle school dropout rate of 1.8 percent or less.

597 districts and 3,153 schools received ratings of “recognized.”  New standards required that 80 percent of all students and each evaluated student group pass the TAKS, compared to 75 percent in previous years. Additionally, the school or district must achieve an 85 percent completion rate and must now have an annual seventh and eighth-grade dropout rate of 1.8 percent or below. The previous requirement was 2 percent or below.

The Garland Independent School District maintained the same overall recognized rating as in 2009.  Individual campus rankings are below, along with 2009 ratings, if different.  The best rating is exemplary.  Recognized is next, followed by academically acceptable.  GISD had no schools that ranked below acceptable. 

Information was provided by www.tea.state.tx.us.

GISD students excel at HOSA competition

Submitted by Nancy Stewart / July 1, 2010

Garland Independent School District students recently attended the Health Occupations Students of America national competition in Orlando, Fla.  Ten students, nine from North Garland High School and one from Garland High School, excelled in the various competitions.  7,000 students from 48 states participated in the medical tests and medical skills competitions.  The tests are extremely difficult, and for the GISD students to have done so well is quite an accomplishment.

Kenneth Hau - First place in the nation in Medical Laboratory Assisting

Akhil Malik - Third place in the nation in Medical Laboratory Assisting

Mai Vu and Jennifer Tran - Gold place national winner for Outstanding HOSA Chapter

Collin Elendt and Ehren Murray - Top 10 in the nation in Biotechnology with Epcot of Disney

Sid Patel and David Hua - Top 20 in the nation in Certified Emergency Response Team

Alen Samuel – GHS - Top 10  in the nation in Researched Persuasive Speaking

Elizabeth Ekpo - Top 20 in the nation in Clinical Specialty

According to their website, HOSA is a “national student organization endorsed by the U.S. Department of Education and Health Science Education Division of ACTE.”  The organization’s mission is “to promote career opportunities in the health care industry and enhance the delivery of quality health care to all people.”  Visit www.hosa.org for more information.

Dashing Debs officers selected

Posted June 18, 2010

Garland High School is proud to present The Dashing Debs officers for the upcoming school year.  Leading The Dashing Debs will be Captain Tamara Aquino.  Tamara was First Lieutenant during 2009 – 2010.  Supporting her will be Senior Lieutenant Anayo Ordu, and Junior Lieutenants Alee Calloway, Katelyn Ledbetter, and Jasmine Minneweather.

Also providing leadership will be Head Squad Leader Prescilla Alonso, Senior Squad Leader Cierra Jones, and Junior Squad Leaders Meg Sims, Emma Spann, Leanna Noblett, and Kelsey Williams.

Director Pam Tomlinson said that next year’s squad will feature a total of 76 Debs. The group will be evenly divided with 38 returning girls and 38 Baby Debs.

It’s a sister act for GHS

Posted June 18, 2010

For the first time in Garland High School’s history, sisters will be captains of The Dashing Debs and The Gold Jackets.  The 2010-2011 Dashing Debs will be lead by senior Tamara Aquino.  The Gold Jackets will be lead by her sister, freshman Tania Aquino. 

The daughters of Johnny and Susana Aquino, both Tamara and Tania became involved in dance in sixth grade at The Classical Academy at Brandenburg and have been dancing ever since. 

During her freshman year, Tamara was a Lieutenant on Gold Jackets, the school’s junior varsity drill team, and she became a Dashing Deb as a sophomore.  She was also in the senior company at Broadway Dance Center during her sophomore year. In 2009-2010, Tamara was the first junior to be first lieutenant in Dashing Deb history.  She is also involved in the IB program and National Honor Society and has been in choir since fourth grade.

Tamara volunteers at the Garland YMCA and is also involved with the youth group at Saturn Road Church of Christ, which taught her how to lead.  Her ultimate dream is to attend Texas A&M University, and her ambition is to work with children.  Her favorite quote is “Go Big or Go Home.”

Tania received the Most Improved Dance Award in sixth grade and was in advanced dance in both seventh and eighth grades.  While she has a love for dance, she also has a passion for acting.  She has been involved in theatre since third grade at Southgate Elementary and will continue in theater at GHS in the fall. She received Most Outstanding in Theatre Arts Award in seventh grade and was also a member of the National Junior Honor Society. 

In the fall, Tania will attend GHS where she will participate in the IB program.  She is active in the Saturn Road Church of Christ youth group, participating in service projects and mission trips.  Tania hopes to become an actress.  A funny fact about Tania--she eats peanut butter with her pancakes.  

History may repeat itself when little sister, Tiffany, gets to GHS in 2012–2013.  She is also involved in performing arts.  The Aquino household is always filled with singing, dancing, and acting because of these talented ladies.

Local teens vie for gold, progress to national competition

Submitted by Janet Tompkins / May 19, 2010

On Saturday, April 24, Richland College hosted the NAACP Academic, Cultural, Technological, Scientific Olympics competition.  High school students from Garland and Arlington ISDs competed in categories in the sciences, humanities, visual and performing arts.  ACT-SO, a NAACP sponsored program, was founded by renowned author and journalist Vernon Jarrett.  This year long enrichment program is designed to stimulate academic and cultural achievement.  The GISD participants competed in 11 of the 25 ACT-SO categories.

Participating students from the Garland ISD included:  Taj Campbell (drawing), Jateria Davis (poetry, instrumental classical, instrumental contemporary), Ciara Dickson Ford (painting), Nadi Gidia (painting), Uchechukwu Ginigeme (poetry), Nijah Hampton (poetry), Shania Jackson (dramatics), Bianca Murrell (dance), Ceon Rumphs (instrumental contemporary, instrumental classical), Jessica Stewart (dance), and Nicholas Taylor (instrumental classical).  These students represented Garland High School.

Stephanie Lubom (vocal classical) and Ismael Moody (instrumental classical) represented Lakeview Centennial High School.

Valencia King (oratory, poetry) represented Rowlett High School, and Bobby Sessions (poetry) represented Sachse High School.

Ebonie Melton (poetry) and Carissa Nalley (painting and drawing) represented Naaman Forest High School. 

Chris Portley (vocal contemporary) represented North Garland High School.

Camille Connor represented Grace Preparatory Academy from the Arlington ISD.

The 2010 gold medalists advancing to Nationals are:  Jateria Davis (instrumental classical), Ebonie Melton (poetry), and Ceon Rumphs (instrumental contemporary). 

Silver medal winner was Ceon Rumphs (instrumental classical).

Bronze medal winners were: Taj Campbell (drawing), Uchechukwu Ginigeme (poetry), Ismael Moody (instrumental classical), and Jessica Stewart (dance). 

All gold medal winners will compete at the National ACT-SO competition July 8-12 in Kansas City, Kansas.  Over one thousand ACT-SO winners from all over the nation will compete for gold, silver, and bronze medals and take home cash prizes totaling over $50,000 in scholarships and other awards.

The Garland ACT-SO chairperson and A & M Commerce faculty member, Dr. Joyce Miller, adds, “ACT-SO is a high school program, but early preparation for ACT-SO during the elementary and middle school years is strongly recommended. The most competitive ACT-SO participants are students who have developed and polished their skills, products, and talents over time.  This program serves as a magnet for students who are above average, task committed, and original thinkers.”  Those interested in additional information regarding ACT-SO sponsorship or participation may contact Dr. Miller at 972-278-4621 or through the local Garland NAACP Branch at 972-381-5044.

All of the ACT-SO competitors are invited to participate in the 2010 Garland NAACP Youth Council Image awards ceremony and reception. The Image Awards recognition ceremony will be held Saturday, June 12 at 6 p.m. at the Mt. Hebron Baptist Church, 1233 State Highway 66 in Garland.  The ceremony is designed to encourage students to continue to pursue excellence in school and in the community and provides the Garland, Rowlett, Sachse and surrounding communities an opportunity to applaud the best and most talented students for excelling in their areas of achievement. 

Complimentary tickets will be available for all student awardees.  Tickets for parents, friends and relatives are available ($5.00 donation) by contacting Dr. Joyce Miller at 972-278-4621. Reserve tickets by requesting forms from Dr. Miller at jekmiller@msn.com before the Sunday, June 6 deadline.

LIGHT Brigade spreads safety message

Submitted by Vivian Johnson / May 18, 2010 -- Photo by Vivian Johnson

The Naaman Forest LIGHT Brigade, the organization that sponsors Teens in the Driver’s Seat, sponsored Safety Week May 10-14.  The theme for the week was Click It or Ticket.

A different driving risk was focused on each day during the week: 

Monday – Driving at night

Tuesday – Distractions such as cell phones or too many passengers in the car

Wednesday – Speeding

Thursday – Not using seat belts

Friday – Drinking and driving

LIGHT Brigade members handed out ballpoint pens that said “Save a Life – TxDOT” to students during lunch.

LIGHT Brigade members from left to right:  Aerial Henson, Alexandra Olson, Marissa Baca,

Sandashia Allbritton.  In front of the table at the front, LIGHT Brigade member Jessica Beynum
 

GHS film students win grants

Submitted by Roger Mowrey / May 13, 2010

Winners of High School Short Film Awards were presented their awards by Lou Diamond Phillips on April 16 at the Dallas International Film Festival.  Phillips starred in Stand & Deliver, La Bamba, Young Guns, The Triangle and was in Dallas for a preview of his new movie, Transparency.

Winners were:

1st place ($7,500) Alex Nelson, Drew Mowrey, and Zach Zador for their high school short film "Lights Off"

3rd place ($1,500) Landan Ghannadpour and Brandon Cantrell for their high school short film "EnerG's"

The $9,000 was donated by TXU Fast Forward for the Dallas International Film Festival.  This is a Technology Grant made out to Garland High School from TXU Energy.  For more information, visit http://efc.gotxu.com/fastforward.

Log in and vote to help SHS win grant

Posted May 13, 2010

The Sachse High School Theatre Department has received an incredible opportunity.  They are in the running through the end of May for a Pepsi Refresh Grant that will allow them to purchase LED digital curtains for the stage! 

Help SHS become the first school in the Dallas area to use this digitally appealing technology for their productions.  LED curtains will allow them to create amazing backdrops and enhance the sound/light effects of all of their shows and events.

1. Voting is easy, just click this link:    http://www.refresheverything.com/sachsedrama
2. Log in - (create an account)
3. VOTE
4. Forward this email to friends, family, community contacts!
5. Post on Facebook (You can even install an application to allow voting from your facebook page)
6. VOTE Again (You can vote everyday through May 31st)

A vote today means that the new technology will be waiting for them at the beginning of the new school year! 

The Pepsi Refresh Grant is only open to 1000 ideas each month, from that the top 250 get funded.  Sachse High School is the first in the Dallas area to get this far in the competition.  Help spread the word to vote for this idea!

Garland students honored at science and engineering fair

Submitted by Leah Marshall-Exxon Mobile / May 11, 2010

Two Garland students were awarded with highest honors at the ExxonMobil Texas Science and Engineering Fair, a four-day competition that brings together top science fair winners from across the state.

Brendon Loredo, an eighth grade student at Alpha Charter School, received third place in the junior division mathematical sciences category.  Jhoseline Vasquez, a 10^th grade student at Alpha Charter School, received third place in the senior division behavioral and social sciences category.                

Students competed in two divisions – junior (grades six through eight) and senior (grades nine through 12) – in one of 19 categories. Selected from more than 1,100 entries, awards were given to first through fourth place winners in each category, and grand prize and best in fair projects in each division.  Senior division grand prize winners received all-expense paid trips to compete at the Intel International Science and Engineering Fair May 9–14 in San Jose, Calif.  The top 10 percent of competitors in the junior division qualified to participate in the Discovery Channel Young Scientists Challenge.

“For the past 10 years, we have valued this opportunity to recognize and encourage the brilliant minds of the future,” said Truman Bell, senior program officer for education and diversity, Exxon Mobil Corporation. “Whatever their professional aspirations may be, it is clear they will be celebrated leaders in their respective fields.  We hope this event serves as an exciting stepping stone to their bright future.”

Sachse HS Swingsters selected

Submitted by Kelly McGee / May 11, 2010 

On Saturday, May 7, Sachse High School held tryouts for the varsity drill team.  The new Sachse Swingsters for the upcoming school year are:

Samantha Figueroa, Tori Adrian, Kaysie Clem, Marla Rink, Katie Parks, Miranda McKinney, Danielle Dona, Lee Valdivia, Savanna Fredrickson, Kayla Morrow, Kendyll Parker, Leah Mesfin and Isabella Muller.  Of these ladies, the top five high scores went to:

1.  Savanna Fredrickson  2.  Kendyll Parker  3.  Marla Rink  4.  Kaysie Clem  5.  Leah Mesfin

The Swingsters are led by director Brittany Shaver.  To learn more about the SHS Swingsters varsity drill team, visit www.sachseswingsters.org.

NFHS band enjoys successful year

Posted April 28, 2010

The Naaman Forest High School marching, honors, and symphonic bands finished the year with a variety of awards. 

Marching Band

UIL- 1st Division
PESH Marching Contest Finalist

Honors Band

UIL- Sweepstakes
Lone Star Showcase of Music
Superior Rating
Runner-Up in Class
Cajun Showcase of Music
Superior Rating
Best in Class

Symphonic Band

UIL- 1st Division Concert
Cajun Showcase of Music
Superior Rating
Best in Class