Maverick Monthly: April 2024

It’s an exciting time to be a part of the Maverick family! Our students are excelling academically and in athletics, fine arts and agriculture competitions. As parents, I know you realize this, but time is a thief. It feels like just yesterday we were meeting teachers, touring campuses and sharpening our pencils for that first day. I find it hard to believe that we are nearing the finish line, especially as our time grows short with the 82 members of the Class of 2024. Next month we will be watching these students walk across the stage to accept their diplomas. It is by far one of my favorite moments in public education. I hope you will join our Maverick family in celebrating these amazing seniors.

As your Superintendent, I feel honored to be a part of a district that prioritizes its students and staff. Each and every decision we make is done with their best interests in mind. But none of their success would be possible without the ongoing partnership we have with our families. In an effort to improve ongoing communication with you and with our community, I am announcing a new communication initiative that will enhance our connection and collaboration with families.

Today, Eastland ISD is launching The Maverick Monthly, a community electronic newsletter to keep our parents, guardians and key stakeholders informed about the latest EISD news, events and initiatives. This newsletter will be published a few days after each School Board meeting with the goal of highlighting the remarkable achievements of our students and staff, showcasing upcoming activities and promoting engagement and partnership with our greater school community.

We believe that transparency and collaboration build a strong and united community, and this newsletter will serve as a bridge to connect all stakeholders in our district. If you are a parent or guardian of a current student, you will be automatically signed up to receive this newsletter each month in your email inbox. If you have neighbors, know of community business leaders or have grandparents/family members in other states who want to follow school district news, please share this link and invite them to Subscribe to The Maverick Monthly.

As we approach the final six weeks of this school year, I want to remind everyone of the importance of good health habits and regular school attendance. Being present in class helps increase your child’s chances of being academically successful. Let’s continue to work together to foster a positive culture and provide our students with the encouragement and resources they need to finish strong.

Thank you for your continued support of our students and staff. Eastland ISD is better because of our partnership with you.

Jeremy Williams

Superintendent

The Eastland ISD School Board met Monday to consider April agenda items. Trustees approved the 2024-25 academic calendar following feedback from members of the District Improvement Committee, as well as EISD faculty and staff. The first day of school will be August 14th. The calendar can be downloaded here, and is posted on the website for each campus.

In other business, the School Board:

• Accepted resignations and approved hirings as recommended by the Superintendent;

• Approved 2024-25 teacher contracts as recommended by the Superintendent; and

• Recognized Students and Employees of the Month, as well as members of the Eastland High School One Act Play cast.

• Presented a Maverick Heart Award.

This month’s meeting was originally scheduled for April 8, but was moved because Eastland ISD announced it would be closed that day to allow families to enjoy the solar eclipse with their children. The next regularly scheduled School Board meeting is scheduled for May 13.

Three of Mrs. Tammy Jones' students, Alan, Ryder, and Easton were asked to lead the Pledge of Allegiance before the School Board meeting. Alan, Ryder, and Easton are examples of what it truly means to be a Maverick. They represent Mrs. Tammy Jones' class well. They come to school and work extremely hard at everything they do during the day, all with a smile on their faces. They are examples in the hallway and in the lunchroom for other students to follow. They are always happy, willing to help, love life, and are full of joy. They brighten teachers' days, and Siebert feels blessed to have them as part of the Siebert Family.

Maggie McIntire and Carson Wheat were named as Students of the Month for March!

Maggie is active in Athletics, playing Volleyball, Basketball, and participates in Track events. She also participates in Meat Judging and Yearbook. Maggie is described by her teachers as a super sweet student. She has an amazing work ethic, an outstanding sense of humor, and loves life.

Carson is active in Athletics, both in Football and Track. He also participates in Ag. Outside of school, he is an avid hunter and fisherman. He is described by teachers as THE definition of 100% effort. Carson is considered reliable by his teachers and is a smart student. Teachers also noted his focus and say that he is the most respectful and well-mannered student that you will ever meet.

Tamaiya Wesley and Brenden Hendricks were named as Students of the Month for March!

Tamaiya came to Eastland in her Junior year and fit right in. She is noted as an incredible Basketball player and an even better teammate. This year, she received many awards for her play on the court and many accolades from her coach and teammates. Coach Scheffield stated, "Mya is shining bright as ever. Her future is even brighter as she continues to grow and lives out her dream of attending college and playing basketball."

Brendon brightens the room when you speak to him, and his attitude spreads to those around him. Aside from being super responsible and taking initiative with classwork, Brendon is great at helping other students if they are struggling with remembering instructions or anything else. Brendon has been in the band for four years and helps out in every area he can. He plans to attend Ranger College next year and dreams of pursuing a career in country music.

Tracy Wells was recognized as Employee of the Month at the School Board Meeting. Mrs. Wells has been a fixture at Eastland High School for many years, helping students to find their voice and a means of expression through Theatre. For thirty-seven years, Wells has directed EHS's One-Act Play and is responsible for the growth of the Theatre program to include fall shows and musicals, Production and Technical Theatre classes, and has expanded the program to include competitions in Theatrical Design.

Under her guidance, the current One-Act Play Cast and Crew advanced all the way to the Area competition at Clyde. Reaching that competition required constant outstanding performance through Zone, District, and Bi-District competitions. The students put their all into every performance, and the result is a striking performance that is well worth watching. Mrs. Wells has also aided students in finding success in UIL Theatrical Design. Amy Nguyen has advanced to the State UIL Theatrical Design competition this year, which will be held in Austin in May.

When asked how she believed Theatre helped students, Mrs. Wells had this to say: "Theatre allows students to flourish and grow. When students perform on stage or run tech backstage, they not only find a path to self-expression, they build confidence, problem-solving skills, creativity, teamwork, professionalism, and discover connections to history, increase their social awareness, and build empathy for humanity and respect for others."

Taylor Thomasson, the current Siebert PTO President, was presented with the Maverick Heart Award for her dedication to Siebert students, staff, parents, and the community. She is humble and only agreed to accept the award on behalf of the other members of Siebert PTO, stating that without all of their time and hard work, the PTO would not have accomplished all that they set out to do.

Under Thomasson's leadership, Siebert PTO was revamped. They ran two book fairs in one year - a feat that hasn't been done in six years. They established a Eastland Father-Daughter Dance at the Lumberyard, which was a beautiful event for Siebert girls and their fathers. They organized a Mother-Son Tail-Date, an extremely fun play day for moms and sons. Additionally, the PTO regularly brings Sonic drinks for teachers throughout the year to show their appreciation and boost morale. Teachers are extremely grateful for these efforts. Students have benefitted and will continue to benefit from the PTO's efforts, as they will be bringing inflatables to Siebert Field Day this year.

Taylor has worked countless hours to help improve the student and staff climate at Siebert, and Siebert feels blessed and grateful for her efforts. Thank you for all that you do!

The school board recognized the outstanding performances of EHS's One-Act Play production. The Cast and Crew advanced through Zone, District, and Bi-District contest, and had a wonderful performance at the Area contest.

Mrs. Wells, director of EHS's UIL One-Act Play, was proud to present the Cast and Crew and to describe the achievements of the company. Kate Bentley received two Best Performer awards and two All-Star Cast awards, Carolina Boelter received two All-Star Cast awards and one Honorable Mention for All-Star Cast, Bentley Huffman received three Honorable Mentions for All-Star Cast, Adriana Robinson received one All-Star Cast award, Aaron West received one Honorable Mention for All-Star Cast, Rylee Nelson received one Tech Award, Raelyn Nelson received one Honorable Mention for All-Star Cast, Daniela Hernandez received one Tech award, and Jackie Martinez received one Tech award.

For each contest, it is worth noting that only two Best Performer, eight All-Star Cast, and eight Honorable Mentions for All Star Cast are awarded. EISD is extremely proud of the hard-work, dedication, and perseverance of the One-Act Play Cast and Crew.

The One-Act Play Cast and Crew will be performing a special public performance at the Eastland High School Theatre on Sunday, April 28th at 3 PM.

As a reminder, students across the district are participating in STAAR and End-of-Course exams in April and early May. This is a moment for our students to shine and share what they know and have learned. Be sure that your child gets plenty of rest and eats a healthy breakfast before arriving at school on time.

For EHS, the US History EOC exam will be given on Tuesday, April 23. The Algebra 1 EOC will be administered on Wednesday, April 24.

For EMS, the 8th Grade’s Social Studies STAAR test will be on Tuesday, April 23, the 8th Grade Science STAAR test will be on Thursday, April 25, and the Math STAAR test for 6th-8th grade will be on Wednesday, May 1.

For Siebert Elementary, the 5th Grade’s Science STAAR test will be on Wednesday, April 24, and the Math STAAR test for 3rd-5th grade will be on Thursday, May 2.

At the Area Track Meet in Breckenridge on April 11th, Eastland Athletes competed against twelve other school districts. From that competition, the following students qualified for the Regional Track Meet in Abilene on April 19th and 20th:

Girls 4x100 Meter Relay: Brooke Ainsworth, Macie Hood, Jayci Majors, and Kesley Johnson

Girls 4x200 Meter Relay: Brooke Ainsworth, Macie Hood, Jayci Majors, and Kesley Johnson

Girls Pole Vault: Addy Cunningham and Kenna Fambro

Boys Pole Vault: William Ainsworth

Girls 100 Meter Dash: Jayci Majors

Girls 1600 Meter Run: Lily Bird

Boys 1600 Meter Run: Sammy Herrera

Boys 3200 Meter Run: Andrew Hicks

Boys High Jump: Eddie Medina

Boys Shotput: Garrett Glenn

Results of the Area Competition are as follows:

Boys 3200 Meter Run: Andrew Hicks, 4th Place, 10:21.12

Girls 3200 Meter Run: Lily Bird, 7th Place, 13:26.66

Boys 1600 Meter Run: Sammy Herrera, 4th Place, 4:42.20

Girls 1600 Meter Run: Lily Bird, 4th Place, 5:36.88

Boys 4x400 Meter Relay: Ben Bird, Isaac Castro, Glyn McCleskey, Eddie Medina, 7th Place, 3:33.76

Girls 4x200 Meter Relay: Macie Hood, Kesley Johnson, Jayci Majors, Brooke Ainsworth, 4th Place, 1:47.66

Girls 4x100 Meter Relay: Brooke Ainsworth, Kesley Johnson, Macie Hood, Jayci Majors, 2nd Place, 50.42

Girls 200 Meter Dash: Kesley Johnson, 6th Place, 27.59

Girls 100 Meter Hurdles: Taylar Fullen, 5th Place, 16.68

Girls 100 Meter Dash: Jayci Majors, 4th Place, 12.75

Boys Triple Jump: Isaac Castro, 8th Place, 41'-6"

Boys Shotput: Garrett Glenn, 4th Place, 47'-10 1/2"

Girls Discus: Caroline Boelter, 7th Place, 94'-5"

Boys High Jump: Eddie Medina, 4th Place, 6'-2"

Boys Pole Vault: William Ainsworth, 3rd Place, 12'-0"

Girls Pole Vault: Addy Cunningham, 2nd Place, 9'6"; McKenna Fambro, 4th Place, 9'-0"

EISD is extremely proud of all of the hard work and dedication it has taken these outstanding athletes to reach this level of competition. Congratulations to all of you, and good luck to those who will be advancing!

Photos from the Area Track Meet can be found here.

Due to anticipated weather conditions, the schedule for the upcoming Regional Track Meet has been updated.

Living in Texas brings with it a high probability of severe weather before, during or after school while students are engaged in extracurricular competitions and travel. Eastland ISD has procedures for monitoring lightning, high winds, hail and thunderstorms. Our severe weather procedures are in place to help protect students and staff and to ensure families receive timely communications.

The Standard Safety Protocol used by most public schools during a spring storm is Shelter. During Shelter, students are moved from an unsafe location like the playground, athletic fields or bus lines to safer indoor locations away from windows or falling objects. The call to Shelter remains in place until the storm or imminent danger passes. Students and staff participate in practice drills to ensure they are prepared to Shelter when necessary.

Eastland ISD officials regularly monitor the National Weather Service and local television stations for any potential alerts or risks. When at all possible, communication to staff is done well in advance of approaching storms and conditions are monitored regularly for potential threats to students on field trips and out of district competitions.

Student and staff safety comes first, so once we ensure that everyone is safely sheltering or the threat has passed, our next priority will be communicating with parents. Families are encouraged to verify contact information is up-to-date in Ascender, our student management system. Weather-related communications are sent through text message and alerts and updates are also posted to the district’s Facebook page and websites.

At the San Antonio Stock Show, two Eastland ISD students won $10,000 Scholarships! EHS student Jaci Darr won the Agri Science Fair Contest and EMS student Kylee Burns won the Pureblood Boer Doe Contest.

Jaci, who has been a member of FFA since her freshman year of high school, chose to start competing in Agri Science after discovering how beneficial the knowledge would be in her future. "I've learned many life skills like shop safety, equipment use, and how to weld. Furthermore, I have learned how to do technical writing and how to use Microsoft Excel to run various statistics." She also noted that, in overcoming the challenge of balancing FFA with other extracurricular activities with schoolwork, she has learned better time management skills. Additionally, presenting the project itself was a learning experience. "For the scholarship, I had to give a five minute presentation on the project I completed during the summer, and afterwards I would answer any questions the judges had. The judges are not only looking for technical aspects in the project, but also how well I am able to entertain and speak publicly."

Kylee, who has been in FFA since moving to Eastland, started off in FFA by showing livestock. For her, showing livestock was a natural part of life, as her parents have raised livestock after college. We asked what her favorite part of the stock shows were, to which she stated, "the actual show itself and spending time with the animals." Of the challenges Kylee has faced in FFA, she says that the most difficult was overcoming two of her animals becoming ill. "It's always sad when that happens, but you do the best you can, learn how to do better, and move on." Time management was also a challenge and one that Kylee believes she has improved on vastly.

We asked the two if they had any advice for students looking to get into FFA activities. Kylee confidently stated, "Go from the basics and take things step by step. Ask questions and people can help you learn." Jaci noted that, "I'm an example that you don't have to own a bunch of cows or show animals to be in FFA. I didn't know much about FFA going into my freshman year, but the teachers and students I worked with have made a huge impact on my life. Joining FFA highly benefits anyone's future."

Eastland FFA has four teams advancing to State CDE competition! Eastland teams competed this past week at Tarleton State University and Texas Tech University in the Area IV FFA contests against 101 schools to earn a spot to compete at the Texas FFA State CDE Contest.

Floriculture Team -Area Champions State Qualifying

Team members - Angel Li - 1st high individual, Mariyah Hernandez 3rd high individual, Savanna Koroch 9th high, and Rebecca Galloway.

Meat Evaluation Team - 2nd Place State Qualifying

Team Members - Ivan Rivas 3rd high individual, Cole Bridges 4th high individual, Jacob Harrower 5th high individual, and Bentley Huffman.

Homesite Evaluation Team - 2nd place State Qualifying

Team members - Carrie McCrary 2nd high individual, Antonio Alaniz 8th high individual, Natalie Castro, and Audrina Williams.

Veterinary Science Team - 5th Place State Qualifying

Team Members - Kaylen McDonald 9th high individual, Londyn Carroll, Adriana Roberson, and Landri Foster

Also of note, while the following teams did not advance to State, they placed highly out of the 101 schools that were at the competition.

Land Evaluation - 10th Place

Team Members - Mattie McIntire 10th high individual, Daila Sadler, Stephani Herrera, and Ava Smith

Livestock Evaluation - 11th Place

Team Members - Taylar Fullen 6th high individual, Kye Herrington, Avery Walton, and Blake Burns

Congratulations to all of the teams that competed and good luck to those who will be advancing!

The following students competed at state competition for FCCLA on Friday, April 12th:

Paola Alaniz and Deborah Cruz- Nutrition and Wellness

Ava Smith, ZaNyea Dunn, and Yozelyn Ojeda- Repurpose and Redesign

Eastland ISD is extremely proud of all their hard work, dedication, and the efforts it took to reach the State competition.

We all know that, at Eastland ISD, great things happen every day. There are many instances of Eastland Excellence happening across our three campuses, and we want to make sure those moments and stories are recognized and shared with the community!

If you see something that you think needs to be shared loud and proud with our community, we want to hear from you. This form is intended for the EISD Community. Stories shared here may be shared on Facebook, EISD's official websites, and future newsletters.

The button above will take you to a Google form where you can share an experience directly with us. You can also include a photo of the moment!

We look forward to seeing a variety of Eastland Excellence stories and sharing many of these positive experiences with the community!

Siebert STAAR Test, Reading 3-5 - Thursday, April 18

Regional Track Meet @ ACU - Friday, April 19 and Saturday, April 20

Prom - Saturday, April 20

Lady Mavs Softball Senior Night- Monday, April 22

EHS STAAR TEST, US History EOC - Tuesday, April 23

EMS STAAR TEST, 8th Grade Social Studies - Tuesday, April 23

EHS STAAR TEST, Algebra 1 EOC - Wednesday, April 24

Siebert STAAR Test, 5th Grade Science - Wednesday, April 24

EMS STAAR TEST, 8th Grade Science - Thursday, April 25

Mavericks Baseball Senior Night - Tuesday, April 30

Siebert STAAR Test, 3-5 Math - Thursday, May 2

Athletic Banquet - May 6

Academic Banquet - May 7

Walk, Bike, and Roll to School Event - May 8

FFA Banquet - May 9

Next Maverick Monthly - May 16

Band Banquet - May 17

Baccalaureate - May 19

Early Release for Students - Tuesday, May 21 and Wednesday, May 22

Staff Development Day/Student Holiday - Thursday, May 23

Staff & Student Holiday, Graduation for Class of 2024 - Friday, May 24

Thank you for taking the time to read the Maverick Monthly! Our next edition will be on May 16th. If you are not subscribed to the Maverick Monthly, click the button below to subscribe!