San Marcos CISD
501 S. LBJ Drive
San Marcos, Texas
Phone 512-393-6700
Fax 512-393-6911

Dr. Patty Shafer
Superintendent of Schools

For Immediate Release
7/2/2008 San Marcos

SMCISD to Observe Take Our Daughters & Sons to Work Day July 16

By: Iris Campbell, Public Information Officer

The San Marcos CISD will join neighboring Central Texas school districts to observe Take Our Daughters and Sons to Work Day o­n July 16, 2008. District employees are encouraged to bring their children with them o­n that day to learn about their parents’ job duties and responsibilities.  The day is designed for girls and boys across the area to think imaginatively about their family and the community, connecting what they have learned at school with the actual working world.

Photo: Bryanna Rivas is getting a head start learning about what her mother, Roslyn Rivas, does in her position as secretary to the Assistant Superintendent of Teaching and Learning. Bryanna enjoyed making and collating copies o­n the copy machine so much that she declared she wants to work for San Marcos CISD, too, when she grows up.
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For Immediate Release
6/23/2008 San Marcos

SMCISD Superintendent Shafer Joins Third Group of Chinese Bridge Delegates Visiting China to Promote Stateside Language Programs

Submitted by: Iris Campbell, Public Information Officer

              From school districts as diverse as Schenectady, N.Y., Salt Lake City, Utah, and San Marcos, Texas, hundreds of educators are traveling to China this summer to learn about the language and culture of o­ne of the world’s oldest civilizations. Among the delegates is San Marcos CISD Superintendent Dr. Patty Shafer.
            The third annual Chinese Bridge Delegation takes place June 23-July1, 2008. More than 400 delegates — including school superintendents, principals and language instructors — are scheduled to participate in the 2008 tour. The goal of the trip, which begins in Beijing, is to build sister school ties and network with other U.S. educators who have, or hope to build, Chinese language programs in their schools. After Beijing, the delegation will fan out to visit elementary and secondary schools in 13 provinces. Ultimately, the program aspires to foster better understanding of Chinese culture and fluency in the language among U.S. students.
          Shafer said, “The obvious message within the name of the program, i.e. Chinese Bridge Delegation, is that American and Chinese educators are attempting to build a link—or connection—across cultures to achieve the same goal: global instruction. It is my hope that San Marcos can establish ties with a sister school or city in China, continue to share information that will benefit all, and better prepare our local students for a global economy.”
         The Chinese Bridge Delegation is just o­ne result of a partnership formed in April 2006 between the College Board and China’s Office of Chinese Language Council International (also known as Hanban) to build and expand Chinese language programs in U.S. schools. The partnership also includes a Chinese Guest Teacher program that brings qualified language teachers from China to teach in U.S. schools. More than 100 teachers from China arrived in 2007 and were welcomed in schools and districts in 31 states. In addition, the College Board, with support from Hanban and other organizations, launched the new Advanced Placement Program® Chinese Language and Culture course and exam in 2006-07.
         “In the new global community, students will need fluency in other languages and an understanding of diverse societies,” said College Board President Gaston Caperton. “Advances in technology offer us a great opportunity for sharing ideas and creating a better future, and I look forward to that future being made brighter by the Chinese Language and Culture Initiatives that we are building together.” 
        Randy Davis, principal of Grayslake Central High School in Grayslake, Ill., said of the 2007 Chinese Bridge Delegation, “It was eye-opening … It was interesting to compare and contrast the United States educational system and the Chinese educational system.” Organizers hope that delegates will return to the U.S. with increased awareness of Chinese language and culture and will provide their own students with new opportunities to learn as well.
        The Chinese Bridge Delegation is sponsored by Hanban in partnership with the College Board, the Chinese Language Association of Secondary-Elementary Schools, the National Council of State Supervisors for Languages, the National Association of District Supervisors of Foreign Languages and Chinese Consulates in the United States.
       Established by the Chinese government in 1987, Hanban is China’s official agency with a mission to promote Chinese language and culture internationally, fulfilling a function similar to that of both the U.K.’s British Council and France’s Alliance Française. For more information about these programs, visit www.collegeboard.com/k12chinese.
       Delegates representing public schools and districts, independent schools, and state and local education agencies from 49 U.S. states will be participating. For a list of educators participating in the Chinese Bridge Delegation or for high-resolution photographs from the trip, e-mail Sheila Jamison at sjamison@collegeboard.org.
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For Immediate Release
6/19/2008 San Marcos

SMCISD Trustees Focus on Leadership

Submitted by: Iris Campbell, Public Information Officer

Superintendent Dr. Patty Shafer and all seven members of the San Marcos CISD school board joined local trustees from across the state at the Texas Association of School Boards’ (TASB) Summer Leadership Institute June 12-14, 2008, in San Antonio. Local trustees attending included board President Dr. Judy Allen, Vice-President Margie Villalpando, Secretary Kathy Hansen, and members Peter Baen, Tom Brown, David Castillo, and Jesse Ponce. More than 2,100 new and veteran school leaders received in-depth training o­n every facet of effective board governance, heard keynote addresses from renowned education experts, and gathered valuable ideas from district programs that work.

Topics addressed during the two-and-a-half-day institute included high school reform, compensation trends, student religious expression, criminal background checks, crisis communication, and technology in schools. Breakout sessions also explored family involvement, employer-sponsored child care, trends in construction costs and contracts, board ethics, innovative mathematics curriculum, school safety issues, pre-kindergarten initiatives, and environmental and facility-related regulations.

Thursday’s general session featured Joan Brock, who shared her experiences as a teacher of the blind who then became blind. She was the subject of the television movie More Than Meets the Eye: The Joan Brock Story. In her session, she outlined what successful communication is and how it must be shared by all members of an effective team or organization.

Salome Thomas-El, Friday’s general session speaker, discussed his award-winning work with inner city children in Philadelphia. His presentation underscored a deep commitment to expose students to options beyond the o­nes they know and stressed the importance of leadership, parenting, mentoring, and service to others.

Special training sessions were available for new board members, covering basics in budget and finance, school law, district policy, teamwork, governance, and district planning and accountability. Board presidents’ academy sessions focused o­n basic responsibilities, meeting preparation, superintendent evaluation, key legal duties, and guidance for building team relationships.
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For Immediate Release
6/18/2008 San Marcos

Prices in SMCISD Cafeterias Will Increase for the First Time in Six Years

By: Iris Campbell, Public Information Officer

For six years, San Marcos CISD resisted raising prices in school cafeterias, but school board trustees voted Monday night, June 16, 2008, for the first price hike due to rapidly rising costs.  Assistant Superintendent for Business and Support Services Mike Abild told the board, “Food and paper costs are going up an average of 17-25%. Cheese and egg products are up 42%. Canned fruits have increased 27%, and milk is up 17%.”

Free and reduced-price student meal will remain the same. A la carte milk will increase from $ .35 to $ .40 per carton.

Full-price meals will increase $ .25, making the new prices as follows:

Elementary and Intermediate
• Student breakfast -- $  .95
• Student lunch --       $1.75
• Adult meal --           $2.50
• Visitor meal --         $2.75
• 
Junior High and High School
• Student breakfast -- $  .95
• Student lunch --       $2.00
• Adult meal --           $2.50
• Visitor meal --         $2.75

Associate Director of Child Nutrition Mike Boone said that in some parts of the nation, school meal prices have gone up 50% or more. “Most of the surrounding school districts in Central Texas have had to increase school lunch prices this year, anywhere from ten cents to twenty-five cents,” Boone said. “But even with this upcoming price increase, San Marcos CISD is still under what most neighboring districts are charging for meals. That’s because we haven’t been steadily increasing the charge over the last several years.”
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For Immediate Release
6/17/2008 San Marcos

SMCISD Trustees Approve Brooke Neal as New AP of Travis Elementary

By: Iris Campbell, Public Information Officer

The San Marcos CISD voted unanimously Monday night, June 16, 2008, for Brooke Neal as the new Assistant Principal at Travis Elementary. Neal has worked with San Marcos CISD since 2006 as a 4th grade teacher and campus leader at De Zavala Elementary School.

A graduate of Schulenburg High School, she earned her Bachelor’s and Master’s degrees from Texas State University with specializations in math, music, and educational administration.  Neal has taught with Columbus ISD and Navarro ISD before moving to San Marcos. Her certifications include Elementary Self-Contained, Elementary Mathematics, Elementary Music, English as Second Language Supplemental, and she recently passed the exam for Principal certification.

Neal said, “After teaching in San Marcos, I am familiar with the district’s initiatives, goals, and dedication to lifelong learning. I look forward to working with the Travis Elementary team.”

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For Immediate Release
6/10/2008 San Marcos

PRIDE High School Graduates Largest Class Ever: 42!

By: Iris Campbell, Public Information Officer

Families and friends of forty-two PRIDE High School graduates gathered o­n June 5, 2008, in the San Marcos High School Performing Arts Center to celebrate the accomplishments of the students who had earned their high school diplomas. According to PRIDE principal Judy Mitchell, this is the largest single graduation group for PRIDE in its 18 year history.

Ten students were Early High School Graduates, completing high school o­ne year earlier than their peers, and are recipients of $2,000 scholarships from the Texas High Education Coordinating Board. The ten early graduates are: Ashley Hebert, Valerie Graves, Jimmy Mejia, Adam Flores, Gwen Mendoza, Sarah Tunnell, Deana Pinales, Abraham Villalpando, Samantha Chagola, and Jerrod Young.

Four students received additional scholarships:
• Presciliana Gonzales – scholarships from Austin Community College and Cuauhtemoc
• Brandley Smith -- $2,000 from Career Colleges & Schools of Texas and Imagine America Scholarship
• Joshua Anzaldua-- $2,700 from Chauhtemoc, Rotary, and LULAC
• Sarah Tunnell-- $28,800 Choir Scholarship from Northwestern University

The 42 graduates were:
1. Zachery Rodney Coleman
2. Justin Davis
3. Adam Flores
4. Cassandra Martinez
5. Jimmy Mejia
6. Caitlin Thompson
7. Jorge Trevino
8. Ariel Amaya
9. Erica Castro
10. Gary Gonzales
11. Luis Alberto Gonzales
12. Ivan Romero Padilla
13. Rachel Riley
14. Siara Sanchez
15. Bradley Smith
16. Kenneth Smith
17. Sarah Tunnell
18. Clarisa Velasquez
19. Joshua Anzaldua
20. Josh Burns
21. Samantha Chagolla
22. Jeff Esparza
23. Desiree Garcia
24. Jesus Garcia
25. Reymundo DeLeon
26. Vanessa Estrada
27. Pesciliana Gonzales
28. Victoria Lopez
29. Frank Oliver
30. Gwendolyn Mendoza
31. Stephanie Perez
32. Nikki Rodriguez
33. Valerie Graves
34. Ashley Hebert
35. Deana Pinales
36. Oscie Townsend
37. Abraham Villalpando
38. Hussnain Muhammed
39. Lee Garcia
40. Alyssa Sanchez
41. Ashley Foster
42. Jerrod Young

PRIDE High School had a total of 76 graduates for the 2007-2008 school year. The campus celebrated the graduation in March 2008 of the 1,000th student since its opening in 1989.

For Immediate Release
6/9/2008 San Marcos

SMCISD Service Awards Presented at End-of-Year Luncheon

By: Iris Campbell, Public Information Officer

Superintendent Dr. Patty Shafer honored employees of Central Office and the Lamar Annex Offices with service awards o­n Friday, June 6, 2008 at the end-of-the-year luncheon held at Lamar. Honorees included:

• Kelly Norton – 5 years
• Lindy Lyles – 5 years
• Kathy Hutto – 5 years
• Amber Gilley – 5 years
• Irene Gutierrez – 10 years
• Joann Mendez – 15 years
• Linda Gonzales – 15 years
• Patricia Bullock – 15 years
• Linda Contreras – 20 years
• Rosie Mendez – 20 years
• Yolanda Almendarez – 40 years

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For Immediate Release
6/4/2008 San Marcos

SAN MARCOS CISD WINS TIME WARNER CABLE’S TECH DISTRICT OF THE YEAR

12012 North MoPac Expressway
Austin, Texas 78758
Tel 512-485-6236
Fax 512-485-6105

Date: May 19, 2008

Contact: Roger Heaney, 512-485-6808

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE     

Austin, TX—For the second year in a row, Time Warner Cable has recognized San Marcos CISD as its 2008 Tech District of the Year.  This award goes out to the district that demonstrates the highest proficiency in multimedia instruction.

San Marcos CISD edged out other Central Texas school districts by demonstrating high levels of proficiency and participation in Time Warner Cable’s Teacher Awards program.  Doris Miller Junior High teacher Lisa Jones won 3rd Place in the Teacher Technology Awards for her project, Texas History Mystery.

“We are very pleased to present this award to the San Marcos community,” said Stacy Schmitt, vice president of public affairs and government relations for Time Warner Cable–Central Texas division. “San Marcos CISD faculty, staff and students should all be commended for their innovative approach to learning,” Schmitt said.

As a partner in the Cable in the Classroom initiative, Time Warner Cable provides each San Marcos CISD campus with free cable television service.  Additionally, Time Warner Cable is the broadband provider for the school district.  This gives access to countless hours of educational programming o­n television and an array of o­nline education resources.

SMCISD Superintendent Dr. Patty Shafer said, "We are thrilled to receive this prestigious award again this year. It is a testimony to all the hard work of our staff of district technologists and of Ronda Stonecipher who coordinates the instructional technology for the Teaching and Learning Department. It is often challenging to prepare our students for careers and jobs that may not even exist now. Technology is advancing at a rapid rate, and our district team makes great efforts to stay abreast of the advancements to best help our students both learn now and perform later in the job markets. Thank you, Time Warner, for recognizing those efforts."

Time Warner Cable’s National Teacher Awards is an important part of the company’s community service and educational support.  What began as a commitment to connect schools in its coverage areas to cable and provide commercial-free educational programming to those schools has grown to keep pace with changes in education and technology.

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For Immediate Release
6/3/2008 San Marcos

When Classes End, Meals Continue Through the SMCISD Summer Feeding Programs

By: Iris Campbell, Public Information Officer

Summer should be a break from study, not good nutrition, according to San Marcos CISD Associate Director of Child Nutrition Mike Boone. Thanks to two programs—the Summer Food Service Program and the Seamless Summer Program—nutritious meals during the summer are available at no cost to all children aged 18 and under.

To participate, children may simply show up at any participating program feeding site Monday through Friday.  Local feeding sites are as follows:

•  Bowie Elementary: June 10 – July 2, Breakfast from 7:30-8:30 am, and Lunch from 10:30am – 12:30 pm.
• ·Miller Junior High: June 9-August 8, Breakfast from 7:30-8:30 am; Lunch from 11 am to 1 pm.
  San Marcos High School: June 9-August 8, Breakfast from 7:45-8:45 am; Lunch from 11:30 am to 1 pm.

 For more information about participating sites and times, call the 2-1–1 Texas information line and select the "local community services and resources" option. Ask the information specialist about the Summer Food Service Program or Seamless Summer Program in your area. Help your kids get the nutrition they need this summer to be successful in the next school year.

One can also visit www.squaremeals.org or call (888) TEX-KIDS for school meal program details, healthy recipes and more. Square Meals is the Texas Department of Agriculture’s school nutrition education and outreach program, funded by the U.S. Department of Agriculture, Food and Nutrition Service.

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For Immediate Release
5/27/2008 San Marcos

SMCISD Preliminary Spring TAKS Scores Arrive

By: Joy Philpott, SMCISD Coordinator School Improvement & Accountability

San Marcos CISD school officials announced the arrival of their preliminary TAKS scores last week.  Early indicators show that the district experienced a rise in the majority of test scores overall and for various subpopulations.

Dr. Patty Shafer, Superintendent of Schools for SMCISD, observed “We have much work to do, and we’re pleased at the gains that have been made this year.”

The district remained strong in Reading and Writing scores as well as Social Studies.  Writing in grades 4 and 7 was at Exemplary and Recognized levels with all subgroups showing passing rates of 86% or higher.  Exit level Social Studies was at exemplary status with scores of 90% or higher for all subpopulations.

Math and Science continued to present challenges, but gains were made in both.  Grade 8 Math scores were above the reported state average after the initial administration of the test and the highest that they have been since the implementation of the TAKS test in 2003.  Science scores in grades 5 and 10 were also up.

Yolanda Almendarez, Assistant Superintendent for Teaching and Learning, expressed her commitment to a sustained push for excellence in instruction.  “We continue to search out and to implement best practices in instruction while working to enhance the content in all classrooms in the district,” Almendarez noted.

Final scores for the district will be released in late July 2008.

For Immediate Release
5/22/2008 San Marcos

SERTOMA Features Student Essay Winners at Luncheon

By: Iris Campbell, Public Information Officer

A select group of San Marcos CISD students were treated to lunch and recognitions o­n May 21, 2008, by the San Marcos chapter of the SERTOMA club, as a result of their writing and oratory efforts.

SERTOMA stands for three very important words: SERvice TO MAnkind. Their primary service project is assisting the more than 50 million people with speech, hearing, and language disorders. The local San Marcos chapter has been providing service to mankind annually for over ten years by sponsoring an annual essay contest among San Marcos CISD students with speech, hearing, and/or language disorders. The winners from each campus receive well-deserved recognition, a certificate, a check for $25, and a luncheon for students, their parents, and their campus mentors. The top elementary and secondary winners receive an additional check for $50.

The 2008 campus winners were:
• Justin Martinez and Connor Graves of Crockett Elementary School,
• Angel Patlan of Travis Elementary School,
• Tiffany Solis and Amanda Lieber of Goodnight Junior High School, and
• Amber Allen and Leslie Blagg of San Marcos High School.

Connor Graves was selected as the District Elementary winner, and Amanda Lieber earned District Secondary winner status.

Elementary students wrote o­n the 2008 theme of “I am thankful for (insert)…I can show it by (insert).” The essays ran the gambit of being thankful for parents, teachers, pets, food, new schools, etc. and demonstrating thankfulness by good behavior, hugs, and helping others.

Secondary students wrote were given the challenge of what they would like to see available in their community to help teenagers, and the group chose the topic of a local Teen Center. The group essays targeted a Teen Center as a source for safe recreation, exercise, competitions, dances and age-appropriate music, big screen TV and a movie library, and snacks.

Amber Allen thought many community events targeted younger kids and families, and even older citizens, but that there were few events focused o­n teens. She also thought that the community could better recognize teenagers who do good things for their town and perform community service.
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For Immediate Release
5/22/2008 San Marcos

SMCISD School Board Taps Niki Konecki as Travis Elementary Principal

By: Iris Campbell, Public Information Officer

On Monday, May 19, 2008, the San Marcos CISD school board announced that Niki Konecki will be the new principal of Travis Elementary School. Former Travis principal Cynthia Pavia requested a reassignment to an administrative position within the Teaching and Learning Department, but will remain as the Travis principal until the end of the school year.

Konecki has served SMCISD since fall of 2005 as the Coordinator of Bilingual/ESL Programs and Innovative Projects. She was formerly a secondary and elementary bilingual ESL instructional specialist for Galena Park ISD, an adjunct professor for the Alternative Teacher Certification Program at San Jacinto College North, and a fourth-grade bilingual/ESL teacher for Galena Park ISD. She earned her Bachelor of Science in Interdisciplinary Studies/Elementary Education from Stephen F. Austin State University and her Master of Education in Administration and Supervision with Principal Certification from the University of Houston.

She also has extensive curriculum writing experience. During her time as Coordinator of Bilingual/ESL Programs and Innovative Projects, Konecki gained national attention as part of the team who piloted instructional iPods in the Newcomer Academies at Goodnight Junior High and San Marcos High School. The educational iPods helped English Language Learners comprehend their new language more efficiently, and thereby advance more quickly in their studies. The learning iPods programs have now been expanded to include Special Education students.

“I am privileged to work in a dynamic district with a vision of excellence for every student. I bring a high level of energy to the campus and a commitment to supporting district programs that expect high levels of performance from all members of the Travis community,” Konecki said.
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For Immediate Release
5/21/2008 San Marcos

SMCISD Retirees Honored for Total of 357 Years of Service

By: Iris Campbell, Public Information Officer

San Marcos CISD recognized 15 employees who are retiring this year with a total of 357 years of service to public education among them. The retirees were honored with a reception o­n Monday, May 19, 2008, at Miller Junior High School prior to the regularly scheduled school board meeting, and the School Board further recognized the retiring staff during the meeting. The Human Resources Department presented each retiree with a corsage or boutonnière and a gift.
 
The 2008 retirees are: Amelia Bazan, Dr. Betty Clere, Elsa Elliott, Michael Elliott, Patty Fleming, Susan Glendenning, Gloria Gonzales, Lois Hahn, Julia Hoffman, Patricia Maul, Louis Maloney, Deborah Ruff, Peggy Sabin, Tylene Tacker, and Hilario Zavala.

Amelia Bazan taught at SMCISD for 27 years and was an instructional aide for two years, for a total of 29 years of service. She was a classroom teacher at both Miller and Goodnight Jr. Highs, and she was a junior high girls coach for ten years. Bazan is taking a year off “to live a conservative lifestyle” before pursuing a Masters degree in the field of Writing Across the Curriculum, doing community service with an Alzheimer’s Foundation, and taking time to enjoy her grandchildren and family. She says that she will miss the many relationships gained from teaching, and especially the students. “They have given me purpose in life, and for the most part, o­ne that is irreplaceable. The stories of their lives will live in my heart forever.” Bazan was the Miller Teacher of the Year 1999-2000.

Dr. Betty Clere has been an educator for 26 years, the last seven at Travis Elementary as a Math Coach/Lead Teacher and Title Math Teacher. She looks forward to spending time with her grandchildren, traveling, quilting, and reading. She jokes that what she’ll miss most (in a favorable way) is “not having to get up at 5:30 am every morning to get to school.” Folks at Travis will miss Clere’s talent for grant writing, her sense of humor, special rapport with the students, and nurturing personality with the faculty.

Elsa Elliott is part of a husband and wife team who retired this year. Elsa Elliott spent 26 years in education, the last eight years at De Zavala Elementary as the campus receptionist, translator, and “a little bit of everything.” She and husband Michael are retiring to Bolivia, South America, where they will travel for the first year.

Michael Elliott has 30 years of education to his credit, the last eight at San Marcos High School as a Chemistry and Physics teacher. He first taught in Houston ISD and then in a U.S. school in Cochabamba, Bolivia. The Elliott family moved to San Marcos in 1990. Now as retirees, they plan to return to Bolivia. After a brief time of travel, Michael Elliott intends to return to teaching as long as he can. What he will miss most, he says, will be the students and staff of San Marcos High School.

Patty Fleming has taught for 17 years, eight at San Marcos CISD—first at the SMHS and finally at the Pathfinder Learning Center as an English teacher.  She intends to care for her mother and to start her own business. Fleming is known for her classic demeanor whose example changed many girls and boys into ladies and gentlemen. She says that she will miss the “family of teachers, administrators, and the secretary with whom I’ve worked at Pathfinders, and some of the extraordinary relationships developed with the students.”

Susan Glendenning is better known as “Coach G” o­n SMCISD campuses. She’s worked in the District for 27 years, but in education for 29 years. She began as a P.E. teacher and coach at Goodnight Junior High in 1981, and continued for 13 years, also teaching a Business class. She became Department Head and Girls Athletic Coordinator at GNJH before transferring to Hernandez Intermediate School where she spent the next 14 years as a 5th grade P.E. teacher, teaching over 500 5th graders every day. She is also a bus driver for the district, so her days have routinely been 6 am to 6 pm. She intends to keep driving a school bus, but looks forward to the “down time” in between her morning and afternoon routes. She says of her students, “Each and every day, my kids made me laugh our loud …at the silly, wonderful way they think and act. I will miss that kind of laughter that comes from amazement and delight. There are no better comedians in the world than 5th graders. They are smart, funny, and have a terrific take o­n things. I’ll miss that the most.”

Gloria Gonzales has worked for the District almost 28 years, in many capacities and at several campuses. Her roles have included receptionist, attendance clerk, instructional assistant, and –most recently—nursing assistant at Hernandez Intermediate School. She doesn’t intend to sit still in retirement, but rather to “stay busy.” She says that she will miss most the students and all the folks that she has worked with for many years. The District will miss her vivacious personality and great sense of humor.

The Special Education staff at the Lamar Annex will miss retiree Lois Hahn, who has been an educator for nine years and been with SMCISD Special Ed team since March 2007. She brought 40 years of experience with her as an Occupational Therapist, 25 of those with school districts across Texas. Hahn plans to become a “world known painter” in her retirement. As her husband is the pastor of a church in Lockhart, she also wants to become more involved with the church.

Julie Hoffman taught in San Marcos CISD for 20 years, all at Travis Elementary with the 3rd grade and kindergarten. In her retirement, she looks forward to traveling with her spouse and “walking the beach” with her six grandchildren. She’s been an educator for a total of 22 years, and brought enrichment and excitement to her classrooms. In 2007, she was chosen as the SMCISD Elementary Teacher of the Year. She is known for her kindness, knowledge, and professionalism.

Patty Maul began her career with SMCISD in Fall 1998 as a full time bus driver where she continued for six years. Always a favorite with the kids, Maul took great care with her riders and was known among her peers as a “hands o­n” person who took special interest in the students. For the last year of her seven years with the District, Maul has worked with the Child Nutrition Department as a Cafeteria Specialist at the San Marcos High School, where she enjoyed visiting with the students as they passed through the food line. She retired in February 2008, and is already missed.

Louis Maloney was a mid-year retiree after 21 years in education, all at San Marcos CISD. He spent most of her career at Goodnight Junior High where he taught Language Arts, Theatre Arts, and in more recent years, 7th and 8th grade Math. Principal Steve Dow recalls when he called the Human Resources Department to seen if Maloney was certified and highly qualified to teach man, and he was told, “Mr. Maloney could probably teach anything we offer.” He is remembered as a valuable part of the Goodnight teaching team.

Deborah Ruff of Hernandez Intermediate School retires after 25 years in education. Twenty of those years were with SMCISD. Most recently, she was a 5th grade teacher who was known for having a kind heart with students and always being “warm, witty, and wise.” Retirement means she will have more time to “read, paint, play with family and friends, clean closets, and who knows what adventures await.” Ruff says what she will miss most will be “working with the best people in Texas and possibly the universe, the daily challenges, smiles, hugs, the ‘light bulbs going off’ when kids get it, and trying to make a difference.”

The library at Miller Junior High will not be the same without retiree librarian Peggy Sabin. She has 26 years as an educator to her credit. Twenty-two years have been as a District Librarian: nine years at Goodnight Junior High and 13 years at Miller Junior High. She says, “The Miller library is really my baby since I put every book o­n the shelves. It is hard leaving it behind.” Sabin will be helping her parents move to Texas from Arizona in the near future and helping out with three of her grandchildren who live in San Marcos. Eventually, she hopes to find a part-time job working with kids and books again. She says she will miss the other District librarians “who are the best group of ladies anyone could work with.” She hopes to come back o­n occasion to help with book fairs, special projects, and to help open libraries in new schools. Sabin will miss the Miller family, especially the students who are known to have made her laugh and cry in the same day. “I am a better human being because of them,” she says.

Tylene Tacker is a veteran educator of 34 years, and has been at Crockett Elementary School for 12 years. Her peers say that Tacker always has a smile o­n her face and really loves teaching. “Even when she redirects a child, her voice is kind and reassuring, and everyone at our school is going to miss her smile and presence o­n campus,” said the Crockett staff. Tacker adds, “I wish to thank SMCISD for the opportunity to teach at Crockett for the last 12 years.”

Hilario Zavala, with 29 years in education, began his career with the SMCISD in April 1980 as a cafeteria custodian at the San Marcos High School. After 15 years, he was reassigned to the Liberal Arts Building at the former SMHS, where he spent another 13 years cleaning the top floor. Over the years, he saw a lot of changes at the high school, not the least of which was the opening of the new facility o­n McCarty Lane. The Maintenance Department and San Marcos High School will remember Zavala as a very loyal and dependable employee who made many friends during his tenure with the District.

San Marcos CISD wishes all these retirees a long and healthy retirement and extends deepest gratitude for the services that they have rendered to the children of the San Marcos community.

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(left to right) Front Row: Hilario Zavala, Peggy Sabin, Deborah Ruff, Elsa Elliott, Amelia Bazan
Back Row: Patty Maul, Julia Hoffman, Lois Hahn, Gloria Gonzales, Michael Elliott
Not Shown: Dr. Betty Clere, Patty Fleming, Susan Glendenning, Louis Maloney, Tylene Tacker

For Immediate Release
5/19/2008 San Marcos

San Marcos Education Foundation Awards Spring Grants Totaling Over $40,000 to 44 Recipients at District Technology Fair

By: Iris Campbell, Public Information Officer

The San Marcos Education Foundation (SMEF) seized the theme of the recent San Marcos CISD Technology Fair –Technology o­n Fire— to present sizzling spring grant awards in excess of $40,000  to 40 teachers and four elementary school librarians last week.

Hernandez Intermediate School received the largest grant with eight teams being awarded $2,940 each, for a total of $23,520 for “Interactive Classrooms” technology.

The librarians at the four SMCISD elementary schools each received $2,700 for a “Kids Choices” program to be set up at each campus.

Additional grant winners included:
• Viki Hicks: $2,500 for a Geography Enrichment project at Crockett Elementary School;
• Moon Hernandez, Vicki Partin, Pam Thomas, and Sharon Ahrens for “Writing in Action” at Bowie Elementary School;
• Amber Alexander for her “Oral History Project” at Bowie Elementary School; and
• Jennifer Vogel’s team for a “Great Outdoors” project at the SMCISD Child Development Center.

“For the last couple of years, the San Marcos Education Foundation has been able to award over $80,000 annually to Innovative Teaching Grants in San Marcos CISD schools,” said SMEF President Margaret Lindsey. “These grants fund projects within the classroom that are outside the scope of district funding, and teachers plan the projects to academically and socially stimulate the students.”
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For Immediate Release
5/16/2008 San Marcos

SMCISD Showcased Instructional Technology at Technology Fair

By: Ronda Stonecipher, SMCISD Coordinator of Instructional Technology

On Thursday, May 15th San Marcos CISD hosted its Student Technology Fair. Students, along with their teachers, presented table talks o­n current technologies that are being used in the classroom. The Technology Fair gave the students a forum to demonstrate the activities and skills they have acquired or are learning. Parents and community members alike witnessed that SMCISD students have the skills necessary to make good academic use of technology.

The goal of the Technology Fair was to provide the community and parents with an opportunity to gain a better understanding of the technologies and services that are available within the district. It was also to showcase work being done by teachers and students. The focus of the event was not o­n the technologies themselves, but rather o­n the use of the technologies to support teaching and learning.

Well over 600 hundred people attended this year’s Tech Fair. Parents, students, community members, teachers, and school board members were able to view over 70 different presentations. Presentations included everything from student produced videos to iPods, Dance Mats, interactive white boards and videoconferencing. The San Marcos CISD school librarians showcased the many technologies that will allow students to access library resources from home via the Internet.

This year’s Tech Fair was a success, and plans for next year’s event are already being planned. The district will expand the event to include a film festival in 2009.  Next year’s Technology Fair will again be held in the San Marcos High School. The wide hallways and spacious areas at San Marcos High School made for a festive environment. The wireless network also allowed more freedom for using technology at the Tech Fair. Teachers were not tied to a wire coming out of the wall.

The use of technology in SMCISD schools has had a positive influence o­n the students and teachers. Technology helps teachers to target specific student needs. The use of technology has improved student behavior, improved attendance rates, improved school to home connections. The students are engaged and love using technology to complete their work. Teachers love using technology as o­ne more tool in their toolbox to teach their students.

The district is constantly working to stay current with today’s technology to meet the demands of today’s world and prepare students for their future. For more information about SMCISD’s Tech Fair, contact Stonecipher at (512) 393-6900 or email her at ronda.stonecipher@smcisd.net

For Immediate Release
5/16/2008 San Marcos

Still Time to Catch First Generation Pre-College Dialogue Series May 20

By: Iris Campbell, Public Information Officer

San Marcos CISD students currently in grades 8-12 and their parents are invited to participate in the third and final workshop in a series addressing college preparation. The event is at the San Marcos High School o­n May 20, 2008, from 6-8:30 pm. Pizza and child care are provided.

The March workshop addressed college preparation, and the April meeting dealt with funding issues.
The second of the dialogue series (April) had an attendance of 47 San Marcos CISD students and 51 parents, for a total of 98 participants. The May 20 workshop will cover retention, succeeding in college, and the changing roles of parent and student.

Although workshop two mainly covered Financial Aid related topics, facilitators also touched o­n various steps for parents and college-bound students to take during grades 9-12. Other topics addressed included the types of colleges and costs, what to consider when researching colleges, admission requirements, how to apply for financial aid, and tips o­n scholarships available. The students attending the sessions spent time researching different colleges at a mini-college fair.

According to Pre-College Workshop Coordinator Roseanna Sandoval, “First Generation” is a term used for students whose parents did not graduate from a four year college, and the workshops provided have been very successful.  “The greatest success reported,” she said, “is the actual discussion held with the participants in attendance. During the planning process, we obtained feedback from local Upward Bound scholars and their parents o­n what college-related topics they felt that they needed more information about, and we constructed our workshops around their requests. In addition, we have staff facilitating adult and youth groups for our Spanish speaking families.”

Sandoval adds, “What we heard repeatedly in our evaluations was that families felt they received the most valuable information during their group discussions—not o­nly from their group facilitator, but also from each other during the open environment to ask question.”

The series of dialogue workshops were funded through a Texas State University-San Marcos P-16 Grant initiative. Additional funding for the this project was provided from a Multicultural Programs Committee Grant awarded to the First Generation Student Organization (FGSO), Multicultural Student Affairs (Upward Bound Program and Talent Search), FGSO, Undergraduate Admissions, the University Bookstore, San Marcos CISD,  the San Marcos High School Career Center, the Texas State University Financial Aid office, and the San Marcos community.

The commitment of the staff involved is what has made the series possible, and the organizers wish to thank the many volunteers from the Texas State University’s First Generation Student Organization, staff from the Upward Bound program and Talent Search, and several community social workers. Special recognition goes to Director Sonya Lopez, Workshop Coordinator Roseanna Sandoval, Parent Group Coordinator Dorelia Silva, Youth Group Coordinators Jonathan Sample and Phillip Williams, Media Coordinator Jerry Cervantez, and Auxiliary members Loretta Alcala, Mari Garza, Jenny Campbell, Mark McAlister, and Liza Lopez.

For more information about the workshops, please call 512-245-3838.

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For Immediate Release
5/15/2008 San Marcos

SMCISD Teachers of the Year Awards Banquet

(San Marcos, TX, May 15, 2008) – The sixth annual San Marcos CISD Teachers of the Year awards banquet honored outstanding educators o­n Thursday, May 8, 2008 at the San Marcos Activity Center. The ten teachers of the year were selected by the faculty and staff at each campus.

The evening’s fiesta theme complimented an outstanding fajita dinner prepared by SMCISD’s Child Nutrition Services and performances by the San Marcos High School Mariachi directed by Juan Cavazos. Travis Elementary School student Marissa Gutierrez gave the Invocation, and Goodnight Junior High student Arik Rangel led the Pledge of Allegiance. Miller Junior High’s Abbey Bowers sang the National Anthem in a stunning performance.

In addition to the families, friends, and co-workers of the honorees, other attendees included PTO members, San Marcos CISD School Board members, members of the San Marcos Education Foundation Board of Directors, SMCISD Superintendent Patty Schafer, Jean Warneke (Field Representative for Congressman Lloyd Doggett), and Mayor Susan Narvaiz.

A highlight of the evening was the video presentation of each of the honored teachers that was narrated by SMCISD trustee Peter Baen. The video can be seen for free o­n Time Warner Cable Central Texas o­n Demand, channel 1400.  After each teacher was individually honored with the video, they were presented with a personalized glass apple award, a goodie bag with items from local businesses, a DVD of the video presentation, a congratulatory letter from Congressman Lloyd Doggett, and a check for $250 from the Education Foundation.

Karen Lavender of Travis Elementary was named Elementary Teacher of the Year, and Monica Martin from Miller Junior high was named Secondary Teacher of the Year. Each was given an additional $250 from the Education Foundation, a bouquet of flowers, and video iPod from Time Warner Cable. 

In a surprise announcement and presentation, San Marcos CISD was named the Technology District of the Year in the Central Texas Division of Time Warner Cable for the second year in a row for their innovative use of iPods and PDAs for classroom learning and special needs students.  A 30 second Public Service Announcement produced for the district to celebrate their 2007 win was shown at the dinner. Time Warner Cable, underwriter for the awards dinner, presented San Marcos CISD Superintendent Dr. Patty Shafer and Technology Director Rhonda Stonecipher with an award check for $1,000 and will air the PSA for three months.

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For Immediate Release
5/15/2008 San Marcos

Annual SMHS Academic Recognition Banquet Will Honor Scholars and Their Mentors

By: Iris Campbell, Public Information Officer

The San Marcos Education Foundation will honor the distinguished scholars of the Class of 2008 of San Marcos High School at the annual Academic Recognition Banquet o­n Sunday, May 18, 2008, at 6 pm, in the LBJ Student Center at Texas State University. The event highlights the top seniors and their chosen educators who have been the most influential persons throughout their academic careers.

The featured speaker this year will be State Representative Veronica Gonzales (SMHS Class of 1982) who is serving her second term in the House of Representatives representing District 41: Hidalgo County and portions of McAllen, Edinburg, and Mission. Gonzales is the first female elected to represent District 41 and currently sits o­n the Judiciary and Public Health Committees. In her first term, she was elected by her colleagues to serve as Secretary of the State Democratic Caucus and distinguished herself by passing the highest percentage of bills by any Democrat legislator in the House. Subsequently, she was recognized as Freshman of the Year by the Mexican-American Legislative Caucus and was named a “legislator to watch” by the Texas Observer and “an Emerging Leader” by the Dallas Morning News.

In her second term, Gonzales also chaired the Immigration Task Force and was recently appointed as a member of the Aspen-Rodel Fellowship in Public Leadership program, a national organization consisting of 12 Republicans and 12 Democrats in the country considered to be rising stars who are brought together to discuss issues of democratic governance and effective public service.

Gonzales was raised in San Marcos, Texas, and was the first person in her family to go the college. She graduated Cum Laude from Southwest Texas State University (now Texas State University) in 1986 with Bachelor of Arts degrees in English and Spanish. After completing her undergraduate studies, she enrolled in the University of Texas School of Law and earned her Doctorate of Jurisprudence in 1991. She sits o­n the board as an advisory member to the Children’s Defense Fund, the South Texas College, and Texas Rural Aid. Gonzales has authored numerous publications, is a frequent speaker at conferences, and has received many awards and recognitions for public service.

The San Marcos Education Foundation (SMEF) has a ten year history of supporting excellence in education in San Marcos CISD schools. Cheryl Warren Norton serves as the event chairperson this year. There are a limited number of tickets available that can be purchased by contacting SMEF Executive Director Rosina Valle at 393-6930.

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For Immediate Release
5/12/2008 San Marcos

SMHS Senior David Fisher Named National Merit Scholar

By: Iris Campbell, Public Information Officer

          San Marcos High School senior David Fisher has been honored by the National Merit Scholarship Corporation as a 2007-08 National Merit Scholar in the 53rd Annual National Merit Scholarship competition.  
          Finalists must have an outstanding high school academic record, be endorsed and recommended by their school principal, and submit SAT scores that confirm their earlier qualifying test performance.  Of the 1.4 million entrants to the National Merit Scholarship competition, about 50,000 qualify for recognition. Two-thirds of those qualified receive Letters of Commendation; the remainder become Semifinalists, about 94% of whom go o­n to become Finalists. Over half of the Finalists are selected to receive scholarships underwritten by corporations and business organizations, colleges and universities, and by NMSC with its own funds.

For Immediate Release
5/12/2008 San Marcos

San Marcos CISD Receives Loss Prevention Grant

Submitted by: Iris Campbell, Public Information Officer
Written by: Edwin Thompson (800-482-7276, ext. 6227

         (AUSTIN) – San Marcos CISD has been awarded a loss prevention grant of $3500 for the 5th consecutive year from the Texas Association of School Boards’ Risk Management Fund. Grant monies will help implement loss prevention and safety initiatives to reduce the potential for property losses and o­n-the-job injuries and raise safety awareness. A total number of 206 public school districts and education entities received grants of $550,000 from the Fund this year.  Since 1998, the Fund’s Loss Prevention Grant Program has distributed 1,381 total grants of more than $3.4 million to Fund members in the workers’ compensation and property/casualty programs.
         “The safety and well being of all employees and prevention of losses are crucial issues in the workplace. The Fund is dedicated to partnering with its members to save valuable resources and do everything we can to help educate staff to provide for a healthier work force and create a safer work environment,” said Edwin Thompson, director of TASB Loss Prevention Services. “We are quite proud that the Fund has been able to award much-needed resources to our members over the years,” he said.
         The 2008 grants were awarded to 192 school districts, 6 colleges, 4 regional education service centers, 2 appraisal districts, and 2 educational cooperatives. Workers’ compensation grants focused o­n fall prevention, personal lifting devices, and personal protective equipment. Facilities security initiatives, driver improvement, and vehicle safety were the primary areas receiving grants under the property casualty program area.
         “We were extremely pleased to receive a record number of grant applications, and member response has increased each year since the program’s inception. Applicants did a superb job of analyzing their hazardous exposures, loss prevention needs, and developing loss prevention initiatives to mitigate their impact o­n district resources,” Thompson said. “The review and evaluation process covered almost two months and was extremely difficult given the wealth of well-justified applications submitted,” he said.
        “Raising awareness and reducing injuries and losses is a win-win situation and this highly successful program will continue to be an integral part of the Fund’s overall focus,” Thompson said. “We applaud participating districts and education organizations for their commitment to saving valuable local resources and increasing productivity. Safety in the workplace and loss reduction have been major objectives of the Fund’s Loss Prevention Grant Program since its inception. The Fund remains steadfast in its pledge to provide continued support of our members’ efforts to achieve their loss prevention and safety goals,” he said.
        The TASB Risk Management Fund is the largest risk sharing pool for school districts and o­ne of the largest public entity risk pools in the nation. Created in 1974, the Fund provides comprehensive risk management coverage and services in the areas of workers’ compensation, property/casualty, and unemployment compensation. More than 1,100 school districts, education cooperatives, junior colleges, education service centers, and county appraisal districts participate in o­ne or more of the Fund’s programs. 
        TASB is a voluntary nonprofit association established in 1949 to serve local Texas school districts. School board members are the largest group of publicly elected officials in the state. The districts they represent serve more than 4.5 million public school students.
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For Immediate Release
5/8/2008 San Marcos

SMCISD to Showcase Instructional Technology at Tech Fair

By: Ronda Stonecipher, SMCISD Coordinator Instructional Technology & Libraries

On Thursday, May 15th from 6:00 to 8:00 pm, San Marcos CISD will host their annual Technology Fair. Students, along with their teachers, will present o­n current technologies that are being used in the classroom. The Technology Fair gives the students a forum to demonstrate the activities and skills they have acquired or are learning. It also helps engage families in the technology education of SMCISD students. Parents and community members alike will see that SMCISD students have the skills necessary to make good academic use of technology.

The goal of the Technology Fair is to provide the community and parents with an opportunity to gain a better understanding of the technologies and services that are available within the district. It is also to showcase work being done by teachers and students. The focus of the event is not o­n the technologies themselves, but rather o­n the use of the technologies to support teaching and learning.

This years Technology Fair will be held in the newly built San Marcos High School. The event will also showcase new technologies at the newly built high school.

The influx of technology into SMCISD has had a positive influence o­n the students and teachers. Technology helps teachers to target specific student needs. The use of technology has improved student behavior, improved attendance rates, and improved school-to-home connections. The students are engaged and love using technology to complete their work.

Going forward, the district is working to improve technology in the schools to help meet the demands of today’s world and prepare students for their future.

Students from all SMCISD campuses were encouraged to submit artwork for the promotional poster, programs, and tee shirts o­n the theme Technology o­n Fire. The winners were:
• T-shirt logo design winner:  Megan Turner, 12th grade San Marcos High School
• Poster design winner: Jeffery Garcia, 8th grade Miller Junior High
• Tech Fair program winner: Madelyn Swinney, 8th grade Miller Junior High
• Honorable Mention: Prudencio Calderon, 2nd grade De Zavala Elementary

For more information about SMCISD’s Tech Fair, contact Stonecipher at (512) 393-6900 or email her at ronda.stonecipher@smcisd.net.
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For Immediate Release
5/8/2008 San Marcos

Special Recognition Week at SMCISD

By: Iris Campbell, Public Information Officer

The week of May 4-10, 2008 has been particularly busy at campuses around San Marcos CISD, as special groups of educators and support staff have received tokens of appreciation from students and administrators for all their hard work for the district.

This week has been Teacher Appreciation Week, and teachers district-wide have cherished handwritten poems, artwork, and other small gifts from their students. Campuses have provided special lunches, and other appreciative gestures. A select group of ten teachers—one from each campus chosen by their peers—will be honored Thursday night, May 8, at the Teachers of the Year banquet at the Activity Center. From that group will be announced the recipients of the SMCISD Elementary and Secondary Teachers of the Year award.

But there are also two very important campus support groups who were honored this week: the school nurses and the District’s Child Nutrition Department workers. 

Wednesday, May 7, was National School Nurse Day, and the following campus nurses were honored district-wide for their excellent care provided to the children of the San Marcos community and surrounding area:

Bonham – Linda Jenkins, RN
Bowie – Vicki Wilson, RN
Crockett – Annalisa Mutchlechner, RN
De Zavala – Sylvia Murray, RN
Goodnight – Debra Burnett, RN
                   Arlene Mendoza, LVN
Hernandez – Rose Jaworski, RN
Miller – Lin Spatcher, RN
SMHS – Dyanna Eastwood, RN
Travis – Katrina Martin-Valenta, RN

This week was also Child Nutrition Employees week, and the department presented each worker with special camouflage tee shirts stamped SMCISD Child Nutrition Food Army.  Associate Director Mike Boone reminds everyone that the purpose of the Child Nutrition Services is to contribute to a student’s learning experience by providing quality nutritious meals each school day to the district’s students and faculty in accordance with the National School Lunch, Breakfast, and After School Snack programs. He says, “This ensures that participating children gain a full understanding of the relationship between proper eating and wellness. In addition, the Child Nutrition Department provides these children with learning experiences that will improve their eating habits.”

The SMCISD Child Nutrition Department has a staff of 76 persons. In o­ne year’s time, they have served 1,1001,937 lunches and 365,418 breakfasts.
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For Immediate Release
5/7/2008 San Marcos

SMHS Teacher Wins National Communication Award

By: Iris Campbell, Public Information Officer

San Marcos High School teacher Lacye Odam has been awarded the 2008 Oberle Award presented by the National Communication Association (NCA). The NCA is the oldest and largest national organization to promote communication scholarship and education. It was founded in 1914 and publishes ten academic journals. The Marcella E. Oberle Award for Outstanding Teaching in Grades K-12 has been presented to outstanding educators since 1987.

 The Oberle Award chairperson, James J. Kimble, said that this year’s competition had as many nominees from across the country as the committee has ever had for the award. Given the challenging competition, he offered Odam his congratulations, saying, “Your record of achievement at San Marcos High School is truly outstanding, and we are delighted to be able to recognize that success.”

 Odam will receive a more formal notification in July 2008, as well as an invitation to accept her award in person at the NCA conference to be held in San Diego in November 2008.She has been a teacher in San Marcos CISD for four years, and she interned for a year while she was a student at Texas State University.

“I’m really proud to represent San Marcos High School,” Odam said. “Our school’s name will be published in NCA journals for all to see. I’m also proud to represent Texas State University. I was a Master’s student in the Communication Studies Department. Being recognized by this outstanding organization reflects o­n the professors who have contributed so much to my role as a teacher. Most importantly, I’m grateful to all my students—especially those who took the time to write letters of recommendation. The San Marcos community has incredible young people, and they deserve the best resources possible. I know we will continue to work hard to provide them quality education.”

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For Immediate Release
5/5/2008 San Marcos

SMHS Seniors Awarded Grand Total of $2,043,874 in Scholarships in 2008

By: Iris Campbell, Public Information Officer

Graduating seniors of the San Marcos High School Class of 2008 were awarded $2,043,874 in scholarships in an Award Ceremony at the school o­n April 25, 2008. The total given reflects awards reported as of April 29, 2008. Local scholarship totals were $144,475, and university scholarships amounted to $1,889,399. The total of other outside scholarships was $10,000.

The local scholarships were as follows:
Scholarships Using the SMHS General Scholarship First Name Last Name
  
American G.I. Forum-Men's Chapter Sarah Lamb
 Ashley  Falcon
 Leticia Guerrero
 April Martinez
 Mario Perez
 Jose David Gomez
 Crystal Tristan
 Jenny Ozuna
 Patricia Barrientos
 Michael Bolanos
 Jonathan Garcia
 Amy Rodriguez
 Victor Zavala
 James Heredia
 Ashley  Trinidad
American G.I. Forum Greater San Marcos Juan Paul Navarez Memorial Women's Chapter  Natalie Garcia
 Ashley  Falcon
 Letecia  Guerrero
 Gabriella Ivarra-Espinoza
 Victor Zavala
 Ryan  Albright
American G.I. Forum-Women's Chapter Sylvia Harwell
 Matthew Jaimes
Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority Scholarship Candice Mosley
Beta Sigma Phi Peggy Harris Jo Weatherford Chelsea Hightower
 Clinton Taylor
Beta Sigma Phi Xi Upsilon Kappa & Alpha XI Gamma  Chase Baker
 Sadie  Castillo
 Amber  Pearce
 Adriana  Medrano
 Clinton  Taylor
 Kelly  Wilson
 Belinda  Rodriguez
 Jessica  Alvarez
 Will  Cody
 Gabriella  Ivarra-Espinoza
Camille Kinlund Memorial Scholarship  Katie Polk
Central Texas Medical Center Scholarship Robyn Williamson
CenturyTel Scholarship Daisy Valero
 Jennifer Carson
San Marcos Manufacturer's Association Scholarship Armando  Romero
 Kristen  Rose
 Lauren   Morales
Paula Wolking Memorial Scholarship Leslie  Ybarra
 Gabriella  Ivarra-Espinoza
Brandon Gonzales Memorial Scholarship Mario Perez
Corporal Michael W. Davis Scholarship S.M Board of Realators Scholarship Hanna Sanborn
Class of 1947 Legacy Scholarship April L. Martinez
 Gabriella Ivarra-Espinoza
Glenn Pierce Sowell Memorial Scholarship  Milam Miller
Dunbar Scholarship Amber Green
 Darius Hemphill
 Malena Pinjuv
Hays County A&M Club Caleb Stone
Jonna Salcedo Band Memorial Scholarship Hanna Sanborn
Juneteenth Scholarship Darius  Hemphill
 Candice  Mosley
 Lauren  Morales
 Brittani  Phillips
 Ashley  Marshall
 Malena  Pinjuv
 Amber  Green
Knights of Columbus Justina Rodriguez
 Leticia Guerrero
 Hanna Sanborn
 Lauren  Morales
La Sociedad Cuauhtemoc  Alvarez, Jessica
  Alvarez, Kristen
  Anzaldua, Joshua
  Auringer, Kimberly
  Barrientos, Patricia
  Bolanos, Michael
  Garcia, Jonathon
  Garcia, Marissa
  Garcia, Natalie
  Gonzales, Presciliana
  Guerrero, Leticia
  Gutierrez, Alexia
  Heredia, James E.
  Ivarra-Espinoza, Gabriela
  Jaimes, Matthew J.
  Lamb, Sarah E.
  Lombardo, Gabriella
  Martinez, April
  Mendoza, Desiree
  Morales, Lauren
  Moreno, Jacqueline
  Noriega, Christian
  Ozuna, Jenny
  Perez, Gabrielle
  Prado, Ashley M.
  Rodriguez, Amy
  Sandoval, Amanda
  Trinidad, Ashley M.
  Valero, Daisy Nicole
  Villanueva, Adrian
  Waldweiler, Joshua
  Ybarra, Leslie
LULAC Council #654 Sadie Castillo 
 Adriana Chavez-Medrano
 Daisy Valero 
 Ashley Falcon 
 Christopher Cruz
 Desiree Mendoza
 Sara Garcia 
 Matthew Jamies
 April Martinez 
LULAC Council #4876 Joshua Anzaldua
 Lauren Morales
 Karen Hinojosa
Ozona Bank Amber     Pearce
 Heather Yancey
Optimist Club Scholarship Sara Garcia
 David Fisher
 Jessica Alvarez
 Patricia Barrientos
 Ryan  Albright
 Jennifer Carson
Pedernales Electric Cooperative Scholarship  Chase Baker
Reyna Family Scholarship Jennifer  Carson
 Marissa  Garcia
 Gabriella  Lombardo
 Adriana Medrano
 Daisy  Valero
Rotary Club of Greater San Marcos (Friday chapter) Shante Trapp
 Gentry Contreras
San Marcos Breakfast Lions Club  Gabriella Lombardo
 Adriana Medrano
 Sarah Meyer
 Victoria Joy
 Michael Bolanos
Texas Classroom Teacher's Association Jacqleen Moreno
 Jenny Ozuna
San Marcos High School Football Booster Club Scholarship Clinton   Taylor
 Lauren   Morales
 Kevin Colwick
San Marcos Kiwanis Club  Belinda  Rodriguez
 Gabrielle  Perez
 Chase  Baker
 Jessica Conlen
 Milam Miller
 Megan Salmon
 Jacqleen Talkington
 Sara Garcia
 Belinda  Rodriguez
 Konstantin Belyshev
 Will Cody
 Kevin Colwick
San Marcos Masonic Lodge Scholarship Megan Salmon
 Clint Taylor
San Marcos Rotary Club  (Wednesday) Jessica Alvarez
 Joshua  Anzaldua
 Leticia Guerrero
 Sarah Meyer
 Jacqualine Moreno
 Natalie Garcia
 Gabriella Ivarra-Espinoza
 Jenny  Ozuna
 Megan Salmon
 Daisy Valero
 Joshua  Waldweiler
San Marcos Sunrise Club Amanda Motomochi
 Hanna Sanborn
Sheriff's Scholarship Fund Tyler Raley 
John J. Stokes Memorial Scholarship Ryan  Bost
 Megan  Turner
United Specialty Advertising Scholarship Patricia Barrientos
Virginia Witte Scholarship  Ryan  Bost
 Tarah Parsons
Cental Texas Public Works Association  Scholarship  Chase  Baker
Early High School Graduation Scholarship Catherine Sipes
 Hazel Salinas
 Jennifer Zelada
Rice Harrington Art Scholarship  Kevin Colwick
 Catherine Sipes
SMHS Art Department Scholarship Leslie Ybarra
 Maria Bocanegra
Brooke Boyd Memorial Scholarship Hina Patel
Bluebonnet Electric Cooperative Scholarship Tricia  Salinas
 Madelyne Mann
Pan American Golf Association Ashley Falcon
 Tyler Raley
 Ryan Albright

The university scholarships awarded included the following:

Last First University Scholarship Name Amount Per Semester Total
Baker Chase Texas A&M University Aggie Spirit Collegiate License Plate $1,000 
Baker Chase Texas A&M University Academic Achievement Scholarship $12,000 
Barrientos Patricia Johnson & Wales University Scholarship $6,000 
Barrientos Patricia Johnson & Wales University JWU Campus Award $10,000 
Burleigh Philip Texas State University Vocal Scholarship $4,000 
Burleigh Philip Northwestern State University Choir Scholarship $30,000   
Cody William Kansas State University Legacy Award $28,000 
Colwick Kevin University of Texas Arlington Freshman Honors Scholarship $2,350  
Contreras Gentry Austin College Founders Scholarship $50,000 
Contreras Gentry Southwestern University SU Scholarship $7,437 
Contreras Gentry University of Texas at Dallas Academic Recognition Scholarship $2,000 
Eger Aaron Northwestern State University Choir Scholarship $27,200   
Falcon Ashley Texas Tech Univeristy AT&T Scholars Program Endowed Scholarship $10,000 
Fisher David University of Texas National Merit Scholarship $13,000   
Floyd William Southern Methodist University Rotunda Scholars Award $10,000 
Floyd William Southern Methodist University SMU Distinguished Scholar $30,000 
Floyd William Baylor University Merit Scholarship $28,000 
Garcia Sara Baylor University Merit Scholarship $28,000 
Gomez Jose Our Lady of the Lake University Heritage Scholarship $32,000
Gonzales Presciliana Austin Community College College Connection Scholarship $2,500 
Green Amber Baylor University Baylor Scholarship $250  
Gulley Dorothy Stephen F. Austin State University Academic Excellence Scholarship $12,000
Harwell Sylvia Texas State University McCoy Scholarship of Distinction $20,000 
Hightower Chelsea St. Edward's University Trustees Distinguished Achievement $44,000 
Hightower Chelsea University of Houston Academic Excellence Scholarship $22,000 
Hollis Geoffrey Northwestern State University Choir Scholarship $30,000   
McDonald Coriana St. Edward's University University Scholar Award $11,000 
McDonald Coriana Guilford College Guilford Achievement Award $31,200 
McDonald Coriana Guilford College General Scholarship $1,700 
McDonald Coriana VillaJulie College President's Scholarship 2008 $10,500 
McDonald Coriana University of Colorado at Boulder Chancellor's Achievement Scholarship $15,000 
McDonald Coriana Ursinus College Urisnus Scholarship $18,000 
Medrano Adriana Baylor University President's Gold Scholarship $36,000 
Miller Milam Baylor University President's Gold Scholarship $36,000 
Moore Katie Clemson University Academic Scholarship $47,720  
Moore Katie Baylor University President's Gold Scholarship $40,000 
Ozuna Jenny University of Houston Academic Excellence Scholarship $18,000 
Pearce Amber Baylor University Provost's Gold Scholarship $28,000 
Perez Mario Baylor University Provost's Gold Scholarship $28,000 
Perez Mario Newman University Newman University Presidential Scholarship $20,000 
Perez Gabrielle Daemen College Daemen College Alumni Grant $48,000 
Phillips Brittani Stephen F. Austin State University Academic Excellence Scholarship $12,000 
Phillips Brittani Baylor University Merit Scholarship $28,000 
Prado Ashley Texas A&M University A&M Regent Scholarship $20,000 
Rich Alyson Central Washington University Full Tuition Scholarship $60,000  
Salinas Tricia The University of Oklahoma Prestigious Scholarship $18,800 
Salinas Tricia Iowa State University Academic Recognition  Award $30,000 
Salinas Tricia Louisiana State University Tiger Scholars Award $16,600 
Salinas Tricia Baylor University President's Gold Scholarship $36,000
Salinas Tricia Iowa State University George Washington Carver Tuition Scholarship $65,000
Salinas Tricia Louisiana State University REHAMS Scholarship $1,500 
Salinas Tricia University of Arizona Arizona Excellence Award $10,000 
Sanborn Hanna Texas State University Texas State Achievement Scholarship $10,000 
Sanborn Hanna University of South Florida Dean's Scholarship $2,000 
Sanborn Hanna University of South Florida USF Green and Gold Honors Scholarship $32,000
Stone Caleb Texas State University Texas State Achievement Scholarship $10,000 
Stone Caleb Texas A&M University Daniel Angus Long '95 Endowed Scholarship $4,000 
Talkington Jacqleen Houston Baptist University President's Academic Scholarship $28,000 
Taylor Clint Texas Luthern University Merit Scholarship $9,000 
Tunnell Sarah Northwestern State University Choir Scholarship $28,800  
Villareal Jessica University of Nebraska Lincoln National Hispanic Scholarship $65,342 
Villareal Jessica Texas A&M University National Hispanic Scholarship $14,000  
Villareal Jessica Lehigh University Dean's Scholarship $10,000 
Villareal Jessica University of Texas Austin National Hispanic Scholarship $12,000 
Williamson Robyn Houston Baptist University Presdent's Academic Scholarship $28,000 
Wilson Kelly Austin College Academic Excellence Scholarship $50,000 
Wilson Kelly Trinity University Trustees' Scholarship $60,000 
Wilson Kelly Southwestern University Mood Scholarship $46,000 
Wilson Kelly Austin College AC Community Scholarship $2,000 
Wolpman Jillian University of San Diego NCAA Division I Full Athletic Scholarship $250,000 
Yancey Heather The University of Chicago University Scholars Program Scholarship $40,000 
Yancey Heather New York University Provost's Grant $13,000 
Yancey Heather New York University Tisch Scholarship $12,000 
Yancey Heather New York University Deans Grant $1,500 
Yancey Heather New York University J. Eckhouse Scholarship $6,500 

For Immediate Release
5/5/2008 San Marcos

SMCISD Announces Administrative Reassignments for 2008-2009 School Year

By, Iris Campbell, Public Information Officer

Two San Marcos CISD assistant principals have resigned and will not return for the 2008-2009 school year due to opportunities for them in other school districts: Rachel Solis from Goodnight Junior High School and Enrique Garcia from Miller Junior High School.  In filling those positions, Superintendent Dr. Patty Shafer announced Monday, May 5, 2008, some reassignments for next year as listed below.  According to Shafer, these reassignments were made with the intention of maximizing success for the both campuses and the individual administrators involved. Reassignments include:

• Ricardo Soliz
o 2007-2008—Hernandez Intermediate School Assistant Principal
o 2008-2009—Miller Junior High Assistant Principal
• Beverly Smith
o 2007-2008—Hernandez  Intermediate School Assistant Principal
o 2008-2009—Goodnight Junior High Assistant Principal
• Amber Gilley
o 2007-2008—Teaching & Learning Department Coordinator
o 2008-2009—Hernandez  Intermediate Assistant Principal
• Christine Kent
o 2007-2008—Travis Elementary School Assistant Principal
o 2008-2009—Hernandez Intermediate Assistant Principal

In addition, Cynthia Pavia—Travis Elementary principal— has expressed interest in working in administration at the District level, and she is being reassigned to Teaching and Learning beginning 2008-2009.  Dr. Shafer said, “Cynthia will be a valuable addition to that staff as she brings her experiences as Early Childhood Specialist, Bilingual Teacher, ESL Teacher, Title I Teacher, Assistant Principal, and Campus Principal to her new role.”

Each of these individuals will complete 2007-2008 in their current positions.  The vacancy for principal at Travis will be posted immediately, and the District plans to hire a new 2008-2009 principal for Travis before school is out.
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For Immediate Release
5/2/2008 San Marcos

Goodnight Junior High Poet Is Published in International Anthology

By: Iris Campbell, Public Information Officer

Fabien Yssac Mendoza, a student at Goodnight Junior High School, is a published author. His poem—One and o­nly—was included in Diverse Youth 2008, a publication from the Anthology Austin International Poetry.

According the Goodnight 8th grade teacher Roxana Heiser, the project was funded and supported in part by the City of Austin through the Cultural Arts Division, by a grant from the Texas Commission o­n the Arts, and by an award from the National Endowment for the Arts which “believes that a great nation deserves great art.”

Goodnight Librarian Janet Armstrong has displayed a copy of the book in the library for public viewing.
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For Immediate Release
4/30/2008 San Marcos

SMCISD Elementary Schools Announce “New Student” Registration Dates

By: Iris Campbell, Public Information Office

The four San Marcos CISD elementary schools have released their registration dates for new students as follows:
• De Zavala Elementary: May 19-June 19 and August 4-22, 8 am – noon and 1-4 pm
• Bowie Elementary: May 19-June 19 and August 4-22, 8 am – noon and 1-4 pm
• Crockett Elementary: May 19-30, 9 am – 4 pm
• Travis Elementary: May 19-30, 9 am to 4 pm

A child must be five years of age o­n or before September 1 to enroll in kindergarten or six years of age o­n the first day of school to enter first grade, or has been enrolled in the first grade, or has completed kindergarten, in the public schools of another state prior to transferring to a Texas public school. 

To enroll a child in pre-kindergarten, kindergarten or first grade, the following is required: 
• birth certificate or its equivalent,
• immunization records,
• proof of residence including a deed or a lease agreement and a recent utility bill, a student's social security
• number or state assigned ID number, and photo ID of parent or guardian
Registration is handled at the school the child will be attending. For further information, parents should contact the school. 

General Information
• All children who are five years of age or over, but under 21 years of age o­n or before the first day of September and who reside within the San Marcos CISD may attend San Marcos CISD schools. 
• A minor student residing in the District but whose parent, guardian, or other person having lawful control under a court order does not reside in the District shall present a Power of Attorney assigning responsibility for the student in all school-related matters to an adult resident of the District. 
• Students entering a District school from accredited public, private, or parochial schools after grade 1 shall provide evidence of prior schooling outside the District. They shall be placed initially at the grade level reached elsewhere, pending observation by the classroom teacher, guidance personnel, and the principal. o­n the basis of these observations and results of tests that may be administered by appropriate District personnel, the principal shall determine the final grade placement. "Accredited" shall be defined as accreditation by TEA, an equivalent agency from another state, or an accrediting association recognized by the Commissioner of Education. 
• Students entering a District school from non-accredited public, private, or parochial schools, including home schools, shall be placed initially at the discretion of the principal, pending observation by classroom teachers, guidance personnel, and the principal. Criteria for placement may include: 
1. Scores o­n achievement tests, which may be administered by appropriate District personnel. 
2. Recommendation of the sending school. 
3. Prior academic record. 
4. Chronological age and social and emotional development of the student. 
5. Other criteria deemed appropriate by the principal. 
• The District shall validate high school credit for courses of transfer students from non-accredited public, private, or parochial schools by testing or by other evidence that the courses meet State Board requirements and standards. 

Bonham Pre-Kindergarten School
Registration Dates:  May 5-June 25 and July 22-August 13 from 8 a.m.-Noon and 1-4 p.m.
To be eligible for the pre kindergarten half-day program, a child must be three or four years of age o­n Sept. 1 of the current school year and must:
• Be unable to speak and comprehend the English Language; or
• Be educationally disadvantaged which is determined through eligibility to participate in the national free or reduced-price lunch program; or
• Be homeless; or
• Be a child of an active duty member of the armed forces of the U.S. including the state military forces or a reserved component of the armed forces, who is ordered to active duty by proper authority; or
• Be a child of a member of the armed forces of the U.S., including the state military forces or a reserve component of the armed forces, who was injured or killed while serving o­n active duty; or
• Be a child who has ever been in the conservatorship (foster care) of the Department of Family and Protective Services (DFPS) following an adversary hearing; or
• Be placed through an ARD committee decision; or
• Be selected by the Head Start program to attend as a Head Start student.

To register, you must bring with you the following to Bonham located at 211 Lee Street in San Marcos:
1. your child’s birth certificate;
2. your child’s immunization record;
3. your child’s Social Security card;
4. proof of residence in the San Marcos CISD, such as parents’ name and address o­n an electric bill, water bill, gas bill, or apartment/home lease;
5. parents’ identification; and
6. proof of income for everyone living in the home and 2007 Income Tax Return.

For parents who need full day service, o­ne Bonham class is offered at the SMCISD Child Development Center (CDC) at 540 Staples Road. This classroom provides childcare from 7-8 am, Pre-K classes from 8-11 am, and childcare from 11 am to 5 pm. To register, o­ne must complete the Bonham Pre-K registration noted above and a Child Care Management Services (CCMS) waitlist form if you would like to access and qualify for payment assistance from CCMS. If you do not qualify for CCMS, the weekly fee is $105.   In addition to the instructional classroom and childcare, breakfast, lunch and two nutritional snacks are provided daily.  Students will be provided school district transportation to the CDC.  For more information about the Pre-K opportunities, contact Bonham Principal Rosemary Garza at 393-6722 or the CDC Director Jennifer Vogel at 393-6868.

San Marcos CISD Intermediate and Secondary Schools
The following is required for a first time entry: 
• birth certificate or its equivalent,
• immunization records, records from the sending school,
• proof of residence including a deed or a lease agreement and a recent utility bill, a student's social security number or state assigned ID number, and photo ID of parent or guardian
Registration is handled at the school the child will be attending. For further information, parents should contact the school. 
                                                                           # # #

For Immediate Release
4/28/2008 San Marcos

MathCounts Students at SMCISD Junior Highs Gain Recognition

Submitted by: Iris Campbell, Public Information Officer

In late February 2008, MathCounts students from Goodnight Junior High and Miller Junior High participated in the Mathematics League Contest.  The students took a math test during their regularly scheduled MathCounts time, and the students’ tests were sent to the state office by sponsors Cindy Garcia at Goodnight and Amanda Voigt at Miller.  The results were recently released as:

• In 7th grade, Goodnight Junior High finished 24th out of 75 schools that competed in Texas.
•  Hamsini Sriraman from Goodnight and James Dix from Miller finished in the top 33 students in the entire state.
•  In the 8th grade competition, Miller Junior High finished 23rd out of 71 schools.
•   Marshal Hanzel from Miller finished as o­ne of the top 38 students in the state, tying for 7th place. 

According to Middle School Math Lead Teacher Sherri Stoke, the junior high students competed earlier this year in the American Mathematics Competitions 8 (AMC 8) which involved over 160, 000 students worldwide.  The MathCounts chapter competition was held in February 2008 at the University of Texas in Austin.  It included schools from the surrounding Austin area.  “The students and sponsors have been working very hard all year long,” Stokes said.

For Immediate Release
4/28/2008 San Marcos

First Generation Pre-College Dialogue Series Continues at SMHS

By: Iris Campbell, Public Information Officer

San Marcos DISD students currently in grades 8-12 and their parents are invited to participate in a series of workshops to help families prepare for college. The first meeting was March 25, 2008, and addressed the “How’s’ and Why’s of Getting into College” as part of college preparation.

The second part of the series will be Tuesday, April 29, 2008 o­n the subject of “Funding College.” Guest speakers will be Grace Delgadillo, San Marcos High School Career Counselor, and Byron Kerr, a Texas State University Financial Aid Counselor. All workshops are from 6-8:30 pm in the SMHS cafeteria. Pizza and childcare are provided.

The third part of the series will be May 20, 2008, and will cover “College Life.”

The term First Generation is used for students whose parents did not graduate from a four year college, and the workshops’ slogans are “To Desire is to Achieve: Querer es Poder.”

All workshops are free to the public, and more information is available by calling 512-245-3838. The series are sponsored by Texas State University, P-16 Council, Upward Bound, Talent Search, and San Marcos Consolidated Independent School District.

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For Immediate Release
4/21/2008 San Marcos

SMHS Senior David Fisher on to National Competitions

By: Iris Campbell, Public Information Officer

During the weekend of April 19, 2008, the San Marcos High School Speech & Debate Team competed in a three day district National Forensic League tournament held at Westlake High School in Austin. Senior David Fisher won first place in International Extemporaneous Speaking and first in Original Oratory, earning him o­ne of the two coveted spots to advance to national competition.

SMHS Speech and Debate Coach Lacye Odam said, “We competed against public and private schools from Central Texas to the Dallas-Fort Worth area. The competition was incredibly tough, allowing o­nly two students to advance to the next level: nationals. Winning two events is rare, and David beat out some power-house teams. We are tremendously proud of David and the whole team.”

Fisher will travel in June 2008 to the national level competitions held in Las Vegas, Nevada this year. This will be his second trip to nationals, as he competed last year in Wichita, Kansas.