âHear Ye, Hear Ye!â Concrete Poured at Elementary
The Blanco ISD
“Hear Ye, Hear Ye!”
Volume 3, Number 30
April 13, 2012
Concrete Poured at Elementary Campus Construction Site Foundation Established for New Cafeteria, New West Wing of Historical Building
Concrete began pouring at the elementary campus at 3:00 AM on Wednesday, April 11.
After months of meticulous planning and site-work, construction crews poured concrete for the new elementary cafeteria and for the new west wing addition to the historical building. Activity for the work began in the pre-dawn hours of Wednesday, April 11. “Everything went great,” said site superintendent Bill Burrow. Tom Rehak, Vice President of Vanguard Contractors, said, “That was the largest volume of concrete that this local plant—Ingram Readymix—had ever processed in one day. This job was about 600 yards/hour. I applaud them for their efforts in making this job successful.” Next phase of the cafeteria project will be the erection of the pre-engineered building, which is due to arrive April 26. Erection of the building is due to commence on Monday, April 30. “You’ll begin to Elementary slab morning of 4/11/12. see some noticeable (Photo Carole Wrinkle Ford)
change now about every thirty days,” said Rehak. After erection of the cafeteria, work will move to the west wing addition, then to the east wing addition. Concrete foundation work for the east wing addition will not commence until demolition of the old administrative building on 13th Street is completed. West wing add-on of historical building, 4/11/12. “Those classroom wing buildings should arrive Board of Trustees about mid-May,” said Matt Herden, President Rehak. Troy Immel, Vice President Dr. Ford said, “I want Kirk Felps, Secretary Tim Nance to commend everyone Charles Riley who has been a part of Bernie San Miguel this project from beginDarrel Wagner ning to where we are Superintendent now. Things are proDr. Buck Ford ceeding nicely.”
The Bell, Vol. 3, No. 30
BOARD BRIEFS
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Laurie Kirkscey Honored at Board Meeting
The school board met on Monday, April 9. Among the items addressed at the meeting: Sandy Gravenor was introduced as Interim Elementary Principal. “Spotlight on Students”: Middle School principal Jesse Salazar recognized Middle School All Region Band students. “Spotlight on Campus Personnel”: Elementary School principal Sandy Gravenor recognized librarian Laurie Kirkscey. Reviewed tentative staffing plans for 2012—2013. Received reminder of a scheduled TASB Board training on June 18, 2012, to be conducted in Blanco. Received information on the TASB Summer Leadership Institute, June 14—16, in San Antonio. Received correspondence from TASB regarding the process for submitting advocacy resolutions. Received an update on the elementary gym floor. Received an update on the elementary building project from Tom Rehak and Joel Benjegerdes of Vanguard Contractors. Selected the competitive sealed bid delivery method for the middle school gym air conditioning and emergency shower drainage projects. Approved Energy Systems Associates, Inc., for engineering services for the middle school gym air conditioning and emergency shower drainage projects. Approved District and Campus Improvement Plans. Approved revised Policy EHBB (Local)—Gifted and Talented Students. Approved Resolution to suspend portions of EIA (Local) and EIC (Local) for the 2011-2012 school year— effectively deferring the 15% rule on End of Course tests. Reviewed candidates filing for the May school board election: Place 3—Kirk Felps; Place 4—Darrel Wagner. Approved cancellation of the May 12, 2012 school board election, and ordered each unopposed candidate elected to office. Approved TASB Policy Update 93, with FFH (Local) and FFI (Local) adopted effective August 1, 2012. Approved a budget amendment. Adjourned to closed/executive session. Reconvened to open session Approved the employment of Linda Romano for elementary principal for the 2012—2013 school year; accepted the resignation of Elisa Pittman (HS Science); accepted the retirement notice of Cynthia Carroll (4th Grade). Adjourned.
Elementary interim principal Sandy Gravenor, librarian Laurie Kirkscey, superintendent Dr. Buck Ford. Elementary school librarian Laurie Kirkscey was honored at Monday night’s regular Board meeting. Kirkscey was recognized for her selection to the Texas Library Association’s 2X2 Committee of the Children’s Round Table. The committee is charged to produce an annual list of twenty recommended books for children age two to grade two. The other list the Children’s Round Table produces each year is the Texas Bluebonnet Award list. As a benefit of her service on the committee, Blanco Elementary will receive close to 500 books to add to its collection.
Middle School All Region Band Recognized at Board Meeting
Middle School All Region Band Students (L to R) MS principal Jesse Salazar, Isaiah Delgado, MJ Benjil, Helen Kasberg, Charity Windham, Ivan Romero, Steven Flores, Jesse Ferrell, Sebastian Thomas
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“Hear Ye, Hear Ye!”
Lady Panthers Capture District 8-AA Track Title Claim District Crown for Third Consecutive Year
Blanco Girls Track Team celebrates District 8-AA championship.
Blanco’s Lady Panther track team won its third district track title in a row, with a dominating performance at the District 8AA meet held Tuesday and Wednesday in Junction. “We worked hard all season, and finally got to reap the rewards last night,” said an exuberant Brandi Mumme, the team’s head track coach. “Practice is never easy and competing is even harder, but they do it because they love it!” The girls dominated the meet in several areas, including a sweep of all relay events in school record times—400 M Relay (50.4), 800 M Relay (1:47.2), and 1600 M Relay (4.07.21). Abby Beard also set a school record in the high jump (5’ 0”). “Hopefully, we’ll continue to break some school records this year,” said Mumme, alluding to the upcoming Regional meet. Girls who finish in the top three of each event qualify for the Regional meet. Those girls will participate in a Regional qualifier meet before competing at the Region I AA meet scheduled for April 27th and 28th at Ratliff Stadium in Odessa. “To watch them compete brings me such great joy,” said Mumme. “I am overwhelmed with pride. We are looking forward to Regional competition and continued success.” Girls Track Note The JV Girls team, consisting of only six athletes, placed third overall at the district meet. “They ran with all their heart,” said Mumme.
Regional Qualifiers District 8-AA Varsity Track Meet Junction, Texas April 10—11, 2012 Girls 1st Abbey Weaver, 2nd Monica Flores, 3rd Erica Flores High Jump 2nd Abby Beard Shot Put 2nd Leslie McClinton, 3rd Deanna Sevilla Triple Jump 2nd Abbie Culton 400 M Relay 1st Abbie Culton, Justine Cooley, Monica Flores, Leslie McClinton 800 M Run 1st Meaghen Seales, 2nd Abby Beard 100 M Hurdles 3rd Paxston Koehl 800 M Relay 1st Abbie Culton, Natalie Barnett, Leslie McClinton, Abby Beard 300 M Hurdles 3rd Paxston Koehl 200 M Dash 1st Leslie McClinton, 3rd Abbie Culton 1600 M Run 1st Meaghen Seales 1600 M Relay 1st Justine Cooley, Natalie Barnett, Meaghen Seales, Abby Beard Pole Vault
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Nabers, Delavan Mixed Doubles Tennis Team Advances to Regional
Lady Panthers Defeat Junction; Stand Alone Atop District 8-AA
District 8-AA Tennis Meet Held April 4—5
Host Harper Longhorns Tonight
Coach Stuart Schultz, Joanna Delavan, Kellam Nabers, Kelsey Schwind. (photo Diana Schwind)
The mixed doubles tennis team of Kellam Nabers and Joanna Delavan finished second at the District 8-AA tennis meet, held in Junction on April 4—5. The performance punched them a ticket to the Regional meet, scheduled for April 17—18 in Odessa. “I was pleasantly surprised by Kellam’s and Joanna’s playing,” said head coach Stuart Schultz. “The more they play together, the better they get. They only played one tournament together. They are so busy in other school activities.” In other Blanco performances, Kelsey Schwind finished 3rd in girls singles, and Grace Strodtbeck and Christina Collins finished 2nd in JV girls doubles.
Baseball Boys Host Harper Saturday Blanco 5—0 After Wins Over Junction and Ingram The Blanco Panthers host Harper tomorrow at 7:00 PM in District 8-AA second round action. “Harper is in third place in the district,” said head coach Bryan Wyatt. “They are capable of sneaking up on anyone.” In an earlier game played March 23, the Panthers beat the Longhorns 20—4. Games vs. Junction and Ingram The Panthers beat Junction 12—1 last Saturday, and beat Ingram 10—2 on Tuesday. “Both games were played well defensively,” said Wyatt. “We played twelve innings and committed only two errors.” Josh Flores picked up both wins for the Panthers.
Lady Panthers following win vs. Junction last Saturday (photo Diana Schwind)
The Lady Panthers sit all alone atop District 8-AA, virtue of their 5—4 win over Junction last Saturday. “It was a good win for the Panther softball team,” said head coach Michael Seales. The game was close, as the home team Eagles fought back from a 5—1 deficit to close the gap to 5—4 in the bottom of the seventh inning. With a runner at third and two out, the Panthers sealed the win with a successfully fielded grounder to third and a throw over to first. “That was a big win,” said Seales. “Junction had lost to Comfort 2—1 in their previous game. We’re alone in first and control our own destiny.” The Panthers have two games remaining, hosting Harper tonight, and hosting Comfort next Tuesday. Wins over both teams will clinch the district title. The Panthers defeated Ingram 17—0 in three innings last Monday. The Panthers’ season record stands at 20—1.
District 8-AA Standings (Thru 4/13/12) Blanco Junction Comfort Harper Ingram
5—1 4—2 4—3 3—3 0—7
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PTO Walk-a-Thon Raises Over $ 9,700
Boys Track Team Finishes Fourth at District Meet JV Team Places First with 208 Points
Press Release from the PTO—Blanco Elementary had its 2nd Annual Walk-a-thon on March 8. The fundraiser was hosted by the PTO, and was held at the elementary parking lot. Popcorn, water, and fresh fruit were given to students during their walk time. Bananas, oranges, and apples were donated by Super S. Students worked hard to get in as many laps as they could to raise funds for the school. It paid off! Blanco students raised over $ 9,700! A big thanks to our winners for collecting the most money!: Top students Caleb Murrah and Lauren Anderson will receive a $100 Visa gift card, 3rd and 4th place winners Chloe Luna and Haley Hensley will receive $25 “Big Bucks” from Security State Bank & Trust, Other top winners Dax Ammons, Mitchell Barnett, John Handley-Kainer, and Nathan Tomlin will receive $10 gift cards to Sonic, Students who raised $75 or more will receive a special Panther gift pack, Everyone who raised $25 or more will receive a coupon to get two free items at the school store, Our class winner is Mrs. Lovinggood’s class. They will receive a special pizza party, Winning teachers Mr. Mike and Mrs. Marshall will receive a massage by Amy Elrod at Lavender Loft Retreat. All proceeds will go to two class sets of Nooks and protective cases. A huge “thank you” to all the volunteers, staff, and community for making this event such a success.
PTO Notes PTO is looking for officers for next year. Next PTO meeting is Thursday, April 26, at Papa Joey’s, at 6:00 PM. Those interested in becoming an officer next year please attend this meeting. PTO has scheduled a meeting for Thursday, May 10, at 6:00 PM, to discuss the future of PTO. Location has not yet been decided.
Blanco’s winning 400 M Relay team of Alex Palos, Colton Childress, Tim Goodman, and Tyler Brown..
The Blanco boys track team finished fourth at the District 8AA meet held in Junction on April 10—11. “We did outstanding at the meet,” said head coach Jason Lester. “We took home a lot of medals, and won two relays. We’re sending nine boys to the Regional meet.” “Our JV won the meet with 208 points—65 points better than second place. I am very proud of the JV team at district.” I want to give thanks to Coach Akin, Coach Balmos, Coach Lay, Coach Mumme, and Coach Hack for helping at the track during practices. Regional Qualifiers District 8-AA Varsity Track Meet Junction, Texas April 10—11, 2012 Boys 1st T J Raby 3rd Byrun Mabry 3rd Tyler Brown 1st Tyler Brown, Tim Goodman, Colton Childress, Alex Palos 110 M Hurdles 1st Turaj Benford 100 M Dash 2nd Alex Palos 800 M Relay 1st Alex Palos, Quinn Dillard, John Hodge, Colton Childress 300 M Hurdles 2nd Turaj Benford 200 M Dash 1st Colton Childress Pole Vault Shot Put Triple Jump 400 M Relay
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Panthers Display Prowess at Middle School District Track Meet Trent Dechert, Bret Nance Set New School Records
8th graders Trent Dechert (Pole Vault, 11’0”) and Bret Nance (1600 M Run, 6:06.65 ) set new school records at the district meet.
Girls Results Middle School District 8-AA Track Meet April 3, 2012 Harper, Texas 7th Grade Girls (Second Place, 139 Points) Kaitlin Calzoncit 5th 400 M Run, 5th 4x400 M Relay Gracie Edmondson 1st 1600 M Run, 5th Triple Jump, 1st 4x100 M Relay, 2nd 4x200 M Relay Denise Edwards 4th 1600 M Run Kaleigh Griffin 2nd 100 M Hurdles, 1st 4x100 M Relay, 2nd 4x200 M Relay Hannah Hulbert 2nd 400 M Run; 3rd 300 M Hurdles, 1st 4x100 M Relay Victoria Moya 5th Shot Put Nadine Ramirez 6th 800 M Run; 2nd 1600 M Run Alexis Requenes 5th 800 M Run, 5th 4x400 M Relay Shayna Srackangast 1st High Jump, 2nd 100 M Dash, 1st 200 M Dash. 1st 4x100 M Relay Gracyn Smith 5th 200 M Run, 2nd 4x 200 M. Relay 5th 4x400 M Relay Brenna Wallace 4th Triple Jump Riley Watt 2nd 4x200 M Relay, 5th 4x400 M Relay 8th Grade Girls (5th Place) 5th Triple Jump, 5th 800 M Run 2nd High Jump, 1st 100 M Dash, 2nd 400 M Dash, 2nd 200 M Dash Sara Martinez 6th 800 M Run, 5th 100 M Dash, 6th 1600 M Run Bret Nance 2nd 800 M Run, 1st 400 M Dash; 1st 1600 M Run in 6:05.65 **new record** Charity Windham 5th Shot Put Carrine Johnston Maddy Kunkel
Boys Results Middle School District 8-AA Track Meet April 3, 2012 Harper, Texas 7th Grade Boys (Second Place, 125.5 Points) Chase Coggins 2nd 110 M Hurdles Luis Elizondo 4th Long Jump, 2nd High Jump, 3rd 4x100 M Relay, 2nd 200 M Dash Wes Eskew 5th 110 M Hurdles Steven Flores 3rd 4x100 M Relay, 6th 200 M Dash, 4th 4x400 M Relay Jacob Fuller 3rd 4x100 M Relay Pablo Guajardo 4th 4x400 M Relay Will Hourigan 5th Pole Vault, 4th 4x400 M Relay Jeremy Kindla 6th 800 M Run, 4th 1600 M Run Jake Mangold 1st Pole Vault Kameron Martinez 6th 110 M Hurdles, 3rd 300 M Hurdles Juoquin Olmedo 2nd 2400 M Run, 4th 400 M Dash, 4th 4x400 M Relay Jacob Robinson 3rd Pole Valut Garrett Seales 6th Discus Sebastian Thomas 4th Discus, 3rd Shot Put, 2nd 800 M Run Kailen Webster 3rd 4x100 M Relay 8th Grade Boys (2nd Place, 178 Points) Conner Anderson 1st 400 M Dash, 3rd 4x400 M Relay Trent Dechert 6th Long Jump, 1st 4x100 M Relay, 2nd 4x200 M Relay, 3rd 1600 M Run, 1st Pole Vault—11’0” ***new record*** Chris DeLaTorre 3rd 2400 M Run, 6th 1600 M Run Adrian Dominguez 2nd Long Jump, 3rd Triple Jump 1st 4x100 M Relay, 1st 100 M Dash, 1st 200 M Dash Ross Edwards 4th High Jump, 4th 300 M Hurdles, 3rd 4x400 M Relay Chase Horton 2nd 4x200 M Relay Jered Mayfield 5th Pole Vault Gus Martinez 4th 400 M Dash Justin Requenes 2nd 800 M Run James Rodriguez 4th 110 M Hurdles, 6th 300 M Hurdles, 3rd 4x400 M Relay Ryan Ronces 2nd 4x200 M Relay Eddie Torres 5th Long Jump, 2nd Triple Jump, 1st 4x100 M Relay, 3rd 100 M Dash, 2nd 200 M Dash Aaron Uballe 6th Pole Vault, 1st 4x100 M Relay, 2nd 4x200 M Relay, 3rd 4x400 M Relay Jordan Wagner 5th 110 M Hurdles, 3rd 300 M Hurdles
Bl
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Teenagers and New Beginnings By Keitha St. Clair Student Success Coordinator I believe that the sooner that we embrace the truth that we live in a universe of new beginnings the sooner we will find peace in our personal and professional lives. I have found this to be a critical component to effectively working with teenagers. It is in the formative years that humans most need an abundance of grace and patience from those in their lives. Of course, they need that abundance of grace and patience coupled with structure and consistent consequences for poor choices. But, most importantly, teenagers need the adults that work most closely with them, to allow each day to truly be a new beginning…another chance to make better choices. Scientifically, the teenage brain has not completely developed. We know that the prefrontal cortex continues to develop until about the age of 23. Although that portion of the brain is responsible for numerous functions, I find it most interesting that it is responsible for impulse control. We want teenagers to make consistently responsible choices, but we must acknowledge that the teenage brain is only in the development process in regards to consistent impulse control. Embracing that fact is an important component in working effectively with teenagers. It allows us to redirect them with more patience and understanding. It reminds us to administer consequences with a mindset of providing “bumper pads” in hopes of nudging them back on the right path as opposed to a mindset of anger and a desire to punish. One lesson that I learned early in my career was that anger begets anger. I quickly found that the more anger that I expressed toward a student, the more anger that he/she expressed in response. Anger is a valuable and important emotion, but it often stifles communication. When a teenager is so angry with me that he/she cannot appropriately communicate, I find a safe place for him/her to work through that emotion without me present. I often say, “I’m going to step out of the office for a while and allow you to feel what you are feeling and to think about how we can calmly discuss your feelings when I return.” It almost always works. On occasion, after checking back in with the teenager, I realize that he/she needs more time, so I give him/her ten more minutes. At some point, the teenager chooses to communicate effectively and appropriately even while feeling extreme anger. That is a life skill that he/she will benefit from forever.
Teens are often very embarrassed about their behavior in the days that follow a conflict with an adult. That is why I remind them with my smile and welcome that every day is a new beginning. It benefits neither of us if I hold a grudge or choose to label them based upon a mishap. We all appreciate the opportunity to begin anew. We have all felt the odd discomfort of not knowing how to mend a relationship after an impulsive comment or reaction. Teenagers thrive in an environment of one part grace and one part structure. I believe that is the recipe to success when working with all humans, but most especially teenagers.
District 8-AA Track Meet Pics by Dustin Barton
The Bell, Vol. 3, No. 30
“Hear Ye, Hear Ye!”
Blanco Elementary “Collin’s Cam” by Collin Gaskamp Easter Bunny Pics, Mrs. Warner’s Class Journals Construction Progress
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Alumni Baseball Game April 7, 2012 Photos by Diana Schwind
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Week of April 13—22 Sat, April 14 Sun, April 15 Tues, April 17 Thurs, April 19 Sun, April 22
Amy Hackebeil Jennifer Collette Amanda Fulton Jesse Salazar Laurie Parker
“Hear Ye, Hear Ye!”
Volume 3, Number 30
April 13, 2012
Concrete Poured at Elementary Campus Construction Site Foundation Established for New Cafeteria, New West Wing of Historical Building
Concrete began pouring at the elementary campus at 3:00 AM on Wednesday, April 11.
After months of meticulous planning and site-work, construction crews poured concrete for the new elementary cafeteria and for the new west wing addition to the historical building. Activity for the work began in the pre-dawn hours of Wednesday, April 11. “Everything went great,” said site superintendent Bill Burrow. Tom Rehak, Vice President of Vanguard Contractors, said, “That was the largest volume of concrete that this local plant—Ingram Readymix—had ever processed in one day. This job was about 600 yards/hour. I applaud them for their efforts in making this job successful.” Next phase of the cafeteria project will be the erection of the pre-engineered building, which is due to arrive April 26. Erection of the building is due to commence on Monday, April 30. “You’ll begin to Elementary slab morning of 4/11/12. see some noticeable (Photo Carole Wrinkle Ford)
change now about every thirty days,” said Rehak. After erection of the cafeteria, work will move to the west wing addition, then to the east wing addition. Concrete foundation work for the east wing addition will not commence until demolition of the old administrative building on 13th Street is completed. West wing add-on of historical building, 4/11/12. “Those classroom wing buildings should arrive Board of Trustees about mid-May,” said Matt Herden, President Rehak. Troy Immel, Vice President Dr. Ford said, “I want Kirk Felps, Secretary Tim Nance to commend everyone Charles Riley who has been a part of Bernie San Miguel this project from beginDarrel Wagner ning to where we are Superintendent now. Things are proDr. Buck Ford ceeding nicely.”
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BOARD BRIEFS
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Laurie Kirkscey Honored at Board Meeting
The school board met on Monday, April 9. Among the items addressed at the meeting: Sandy Gravenor was introduced as Interim Elementary Principal. “Spotlight on Students”: Middle School principal Jesse Salazar recognized Middle School All Region Band students. “Spotlight on Campus Personnel”: Elementary School principal Sandy Gravenor recognized librarian Laurie Kirkscey. Reviewed tentative staffing plans for 2012—2013. Received reminder of a scheduled TASB Board training on June 18, 2012, to be conducted in Blanco. Received information on the TASB Summer Leadership Institute, June 14—16, in San Antonio. Received correspondence from TASB regarding the process for submitting advocacy resolutions. Received an update on the elementary gym floor. Received an update on the elementary building project from Tom Rehak and Joel Benjegerdes of Vanguard Contractors. Selected the competitive sealed bid delivery method for the middle school gym air conditioning and emergency shower drainage projects. Approved Energy Systems Associates, Inc., for engineering services for the middle school gym air conditioning and emergency shower drainage projects. Approved District and Campus Improvement Plans. Approved revised Policy EHBB (Local)—Gifted and Talented Students. Approved Resolution to suspend portions of EIA (Local) and EIC (Local) for the 2011-2012 school year— effectively deferring the 15% rule on End of Course tests. Reviewed candidates filing for the May school board election: Place 3—Kirk Felps; Place 4—Darrel Wagner. Approved cancellation of the May 12, 2012 school board election, and ordered each unopposed candidate elected to office. Approved TASB Policy Update 93, with FFH (Local) and FFI (Local) adopted effective August 1, 2012. Approved a budget amendment. Adjourned to closed/executive session. Reconvened to open session Approved the employment of Linda Romano for elementary principal for the 2012—2013 school year; accepted the resignation of Elisa Pittman (HS Science); accepted the retirement notice of Cynthia Carroll (4th Grade). Adjourned.
Elementary interim principal Sandy Gravenor, librarian Laurie Kirkscey, superintendent Dr. Buck Ford. Elementary school librarian Laurie Kirkscey was honored at Monday night’s regular Board meeting. Kirkscey was recognized for her selection to the Texas Library Association’s 2X2 Committee of the Children’s Round Table. The committee is charged to produce an annual list of twenty recommended books for children age two to grade two. The other list the Children’s Round Table produces each year is the Texas Bluebonnet Award list. As a benefit of her service on the committee, Blanco Elementary will receive close to 500 books to add to its collection.
Middle School All Region Band Recognized at Board Meeting
Middle School All Region Band Students (L to R) MS principal Jesse Salazar, Isaiah Delgado, MJ Benjil, Helen Kasberg, Charity Windham, Ivan Romero, Steven Flores, Jesse Ferrell, Sebastian Thomas
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Lady Panthers Capture District 8-AA Track Title Claim District Crown for Third Consecutive Year
Blanco Girls Track Team celebrates District 8-AA championship.
Blanco’s Lady Panther track team won its third district track title in a row, with a dominating performance at the District 8AA meet held Tuesday and Wednesday in Junction. “We worked hard all season, and finally got to reap the rewards last night,” said an exuberant Brandi Mumme, the team’s head track coach. “Practice is never easy and competing is even harder, but they do it because they love it!” The girls dominated the meet in several areas, including a sweep of all relay events in school record times—400 M Relay (50.4), 800 M Relay (1:47.2), and 1600 M Relay (4.07.21). Abby Beard also set a school record in the high jump (5’ 0”). “Hopefully, we’ll continue to break some school records this year,” said Mumme, alluding to the upcoming Regional meet. Girls who finish in the top three of each event qualify for the Regional meet. Those girls will participate in a Regional qualifier meet before competing at the Region I AA meet scheduled for April 27th and 28th at Ratliff Stadium in Odessa. “To watch them compete brings me such great joy,” said Mumme. “I am overwhelmed with pride. We are looking forward to Regional competition and continued success.” Girls Track Note The JV Girls team, consisting of only six athletes, placed third overall at the district meet. “They ran with all their heart,” said Mumme.
Regional Qualifiers District 8-AA Varsity Track Meet Junction, Texas April 10—11, 2012 Girls 1st Abbey Weaver, 2nd Monica Flores, 3rd Erica Flores High Jump 2nd Abby Beard Shot Put 2nd Leslie McClinton, 3rd Deanna Sevilla Triple Jump 2nd Abbie Culton 400 M Relay 1st Abbie Culton, Justine Cooley, Monica Flores, Leslie McClinton 800 M Run 1st Meaghen Seales, 2nd Abby Beard 100 M Hurdles 3rd Paxston Koehl 800 M Relay 1st Abbie Culton, Natalie Barnett, Leslie McClinton, Abby Beard 300 M Hurdles 3rd Paxston Koehl 200 M Dash 1st Leslie McClinton, 3rd Abbie Culton 1600 M Run 1st Meaghen Seales 1600 M Relay 1st Justine Cooley, Natalie Barnett, Meaghen Seales, Abby Beard Pole Vault
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Nabers, Delavan Mixed Doubles Tennis Team Advances to Regional
Lady Panthers Defeat Junction; Stand Alone Atop District 8-AA
District 8-AA Tennis Meet Held April 4—5
Host Harper Longhorns Tonight
Coach Stuart Schultz, Joanna Delavan, Kellam Nabers, Kelsey Schwind. (photo Diana Schwind)
The mixed doubles tennis team of Kellam Nabers and Joanna Delavan finished second at the District 8-AA tennis meet, held in Junction on April 4—5. The performance punched them a ticket to the Regional meet, scheduled for April 17—18 in Odessa. “I was pleasantly surprised by Kellam’s and Joanna’s playing,” said head coach Stuart Schultz. “The more they play together, the better they get. They only played one tournament together. They are so busy in other school activities.” In other Blanco performances, Kelsey Schwind finished 3rd in girls singles, and Grace Strodtbeck and Christina Collins finished 2nd in JV girls doubles.
Baseball Boys Host Harper Saturday Blanco 5—0 After Wins Over Junction and Ingram The Blanco Panthers host Harper tomorrow at 7:00 PM in District 8-AA second round action. “Harper is in third place in the district,” said head coach Bryan Wyatt. “They are capable of sneaking up on anyone.” In an earlier game played March 23, the Panthers beat the Longhorns 20—4. Games vs. Junction and Ingram The Panthers beat Junction 12—1 last Saturday, and beat Ingram 10—2 on Tuesday. “Both games were played well defensively,” said Wyatt. “We played twelve innings and committed only two errors.” Josh Flores picked up both wins for the Panthers.
Lady Panthers following win vs. Junction last Saturday (photo Diana Schwind)
The Lady Panthers sit all alone atop District 8-AA, virtue of their 5—4 win over Junction last Saturday. “It was a good win for the Panther softball team,” said head coach Michael Seales. The game was close, as the home team Eagles fought back from a 5—1 deficit to close the gap to 5—4 in the bottom of the seventh inning. With a runner at third and two out, the Panthers sealed the win with a successfully fielded grounder to third and a throw over to first. “That was a big win,” said Seales. “Junction had lost to Comfort 2—1 in their previous game. We’re alone in first and control our own destiny.” The Panthers have two games remaining, hosting Harper tonight, and hosting Comfort next Tuesday. Wins over both teams will clinch the district title. The Panthers defeated Ingram 17—0 in three innings last Monday. The Panthers’ season record stands at 20—1.
District 8-AA Standings (Thru 4/13/12) Blanco Junction Comfort Harper Ingram
5—1 4—2 4—3 3—3 0—7
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PTO Walk-a-Thon Raises Over $ 9,700
Boys Track Team Finishes Fourth at District Meet JV Team Places First with 208 Points
Press Release from the PTO—Blanco Elementary had its 2nd Annual Walk-a-thon on March 8. The fundraiser was hosted by the PTO, and was held at the elementary parking lot. Popcorn, water, and fresh fruit were given to students during their walk time. Bananas, oranges, and apples were donated by Super S. Students worked hard to get in as many laps as they could to raise funds for the school. It paid off! Blanco students raised over $ 9,700! A big thanks to our winners for collecting the most money!: Top students Caleb Murrah and Lauren Anderson will receive a $100 Visa gift card, 3rd and 4th place winners Chloe Luna and Haley Hensley will receive $25 “Big Bucks” from Security State Bank & Trust, Other top winners Dax Ammons, Mitchell Barnett, John Handley-Kainer, and Nathan Tomlin will receive $10 gift cards to Sonic, Students who raised $75 or more will receive a special Panther gift pack, Everyone who raised $25 or more will receive a coupon to get two free items at the school store, Our class winner is Mrs. Lovinggood’s class. They will receive a special pizza party, Winning teachers Mr. Mike and Mrs. Marshall will receive a massage by Amy Elrod at Lavender Loft Retreat. All proceeds will go to two class sets of Nooks and protective cases. A huge “thank you” to all the volunteers, staff, and community for making this event such a success.
PTO Notes PTO is looking for officers for next year. Next PTO meeting is Thursday, April 26, at Papa Joey’s, at 6:00 PM. Those interested in becoming an officer next year please attend this meeting. PTO has scheduled a meeting for Thursday, May 10, at 6:00 PM, to discuss the future of PTO. Location has not yet been decided.
Blanco’s winning 400 M Relay team of Alex Palos, Colton Childress, Tim Goodman, and Tyler Brown..
The Blanco boys track team finished fourth at the District 8AA meet held in Junction on April 10—11. “We did outstanding at the meet,” said head coach Jason Lester. “We took home a lot of medals, and won two relays. We’re sending nine boys to the Regional meet.” “Our JV won the meet with 208 points—65 points better than second place. I am very proud of the JV team at district.” I want to give thanks to Coach Akin, Coach Balmos, Coach Lay, Coach Mumme, and Coach Hack for helping at the track during practices. Regional Qualifiers District 8-AA Varsity Track Meet Junction, Texas April 10—11, 2012 Boys 1st T J Raby 3rd Byrun Mabry 3rd Tyler Brown 1st Tyler Brown, Tim Goodman, Colton Childress, Alex Palos 110 M Hurdles 1st Turaj Benford 100 M Dash 2nd Alex Palos 800 M Relay 1st Alex Palos, Quinn Dillard, John Hodge, Colton Childress 300 M Hurdles 2nd Turaj Benford 200 M Dash 1st Colton Childress Pole Vault Shot Put Triple Jump 400 M Relay
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Panthers Display Prowess at Middle School District Track Meet Trent Dechert, Bret Nance Set New School Records
8th graders Trent Dechert (Pole Vault, 11’0”) and Bret Nance (1600 M Run, 6:06.65 ) set new school records at the district meet.
Girls Results Middle School District 8-AA Track Meet April 3, 2012 Harper, Texas 7th Grade Girls (Second Place, 139 Points) Kaitlin Calzoncit 5th 400 M Run, 5th 4x400 M Relay Gracie Edmondson 1st 1600 M Run, 5th Triple Jump, 1st 4x100 M Relay, 2nd 4x200 M Relay Denise Edwards 4th 1600 M Run Kaleigh Griffin 2nd 100 M Hurdles, 1st 4x100 M Relay, 2nd 4x200 M Relay Hannah Hulbert 2nd 400 M Run; 3rd 300 M Hurdles, 1st 4x100 M Relay Victoria Moya 5th Shot Put Nadine Ramirez 6th 800 M Run; 2nd 1600 M Run Alexis Requenes 5th 800 M Run, 5th 4x400 M Relay Shayna Srackangast 1st High Jump, 2nd 100 M Dash, 1st 200 M Dash. 1st 4x100 M Relay Gracyn Smith 5th 200 M Run, 2nd 4x 200 M. Relay 5th 4x400 M Relay Brenna Wallace 4th Triple Jump Riley Watt 2nd 4x200 M Relay, 5th 4x400 M Relay 8th Grade Girls (5th Place) 5th Triple Jump, 5th 800 M Run 2nd High Jump, 1st 100 M Dash, 2nd 400 M Dash, 2nd 200 M Dash Sara Martinez 6th 800 M Run, 5th 100 M Dash, 6th 1600 M Run Bret Nance 2nd 800 M Run, 1st 400 M Dash; 1st 1600 M Run in 6:05.65 **new record** Charity Windham 5th Shot Put Carrine Johnston Maddy Kunkel
Boys Results Middle School District 8-AA Track Meet April 3, 2012 Harper, Texas 7th Grade Boys (Second Place, 125.5 Points) Chase Coggins 2nd 110 M Hurdles Luis Elizondo 4th Long Jump, 2nd High Jump, 3rd 4x100 M Relay, 2nd 200 M Dash Wes Eskew 5th 110 M Hurdles Steven Flores 3rd 4x100 M Relay, 6th 200 M Dash, 4th 4x400 M Relay Jacob Fuller 3rd 4x100 M Relay Pablo Guajardo 4th 4x400 M Relay Will Hourigan 5th Pole Vault, 4th 4x400 M Relay Jeremy Kindla 6th 800 M Run, 4th 1600 M Run Jake Mangold 1st Pole Vault Kameron Martinez 6th 110 M Hurdles, 3rd 300 M Hurdles Juoquin Olmedo 2nd 2400 M Run, 4th 400 M Dash, 4th 4x400 M Relay Jacob Robinson 3rd Pole Valut Garrett Seales 6th Discus Sebastian Thomas 4th Discus, 3rd Shot Put, 2nd 800 M Run Kailen Webster 3rd 4x100 M Relay 8th Grade Boys (2nd Place, 178 Points) Conner Anderson 1st 400 M Dash, 3rd 4x400 M Relay Trent Dechert 6th Long Jump, 1st 4x100 M Relay, 2nd 4x200 M Relay, 3rd 1600 M Run, 1st Pole Vault—11’0” ***new record*** Chris DeLaTorre 3rd 2400 M Run, 6th 1600 M Run Adrian Dominguez 2nd Long Jump, 3rd Triple Jump 1st 4x100 M Relay, 1st 100 M Dash, 1st 200 M Dash Ross Edwards 4th High Jump, 4th 300 M Hurdles, 3rd 4x400 M Relay Chase Horton 2nd 4x200 M Relay Jered Mayfield 5th Pole Vault Gus Martinez 4th 400 M Dash Justin Requenes 2nd 800 M Run James Rodriguez 4th 110 M Hurdles, 6th 300 M Hurdles, 3rd 4x400 M Relay Ryan Ronces 2nd 4x200 M Relay Eddie Torres 5th Long Jump, 2nd Triple Jump, 1st 4x100 M Relay, 3rd 100 M Dash, 2nd 200 M Dash Aaron Uballe 6th Pole Vault, 1st 4x100 M Relay, 2nd 4x200 M Relay, 3rd 4x400 M Relay Jordan Wagner 5th 110 M Hurdles, 3rd 300 M Hurdles
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Teenagers and New Beginnings By Keitha St. Clair Student Success Coordinator I believe that the sooner that we embrace the truth that we live in a universe of new beginnings the sooner we will find peace in our personal and professional lives. I have found this to be a critical component to effectively working with teenagers. It is in the formative years that humans most need an abundance of grace and patience from those in their lives. Of course, they need that abundance of grace and patience coupled with structure and consistent consequences for poor choices. But, most importantly, teenagers need the adults that work most closely with them, to allow each day to truly be a new beginning…another chance to make better choices. Scientifically, the teenage brain has not completely developed. We know that the prefrontal cortex continues to develop until about the age of 23. Although that portion of the brain is responsible for numerous functions, I find it most interesting that it is responsible for impulse control. We want teenagers to make consistently responsible choices, but we must acknowledge that the teenage brain is only in the development process in regards to consistent impulse control. Embracing that fact is an important component in working effectively with teenagers. It allows us to redirect them with more patience and understanding. It reminds us to administer consequences with a mindset of providing “bumper pads” in hopes of nudging them back on the right path as opposed to a mindset of anger and a desire to punish. One lesson that I learned early in my career was that anger begets anger. I quickly found that the more anger that I expressed toward a student, the more anger that he/she expressed in response. Anger is a valuable and important emotion, but it often stifles communication. When a teenager is so angry with me that he/she cannot appropriately communicate, I find a safe place for him/her to work through that emotion without me present. I often say, “I’m going to step out of the office for a while and allow you to feel what you are feeling and to think about how we can calmly discuss your feelings when I return.” It almost always works. On occasion, after checking back in with the teenager, I realize that he/she needs more time, so I give him/her ten more minutes. At some point, the teenager chooses to communicate effectively and appropriately even while feeling extreme anger. That is a life skill that he/she will benefit from forever.
Teens are often very embarrassed about their behavior in the days that follow a conflict with an adult. That is why I remind them with my smile and welcome that every day is a new beginning. It benefits neither of us if I hold a grudge or choose to label them based upon a mishap. We all appreciate the opportunity to begin anew. We have all felt the odd discomfort of not knowing how to mend a relationship after an impulsive comment or reaction. Teenagers thrive in an environment of one part grace and one part structure. I believe that is the recipe to success when working with all humans, but most especially teenagers.
District 8-AA Track Meet Pics by Dustin Barton
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Blanco Elementary “Collin’s Cam” by Collin Gaskamp Easter Bunny Pics, Mrs. Warner’s Class Journals Construction Progress
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Alumni Baseball Game April 7, 2012 Photos by Diana Schwind
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Week of April 13—22 Sat, April 14 Sun, April 15 Tues, April 17 Thurs, April 19 Sun, April 22
Amy Hackebeil Jennifer Collette Amanda Fulton Jesse Salazar Laurie Parker
