our mission: the alamo heights independent school district, … · alamo heights isd 2012 annual...

AlAmo HeigHts isD 2012 Annual Performance ReporttHe Deep-rooteD trADition AnD Future oF excellence

O u R M i s s i O n : The AlAmo heighTs independenT school disTricT, The heArT of our communiTy wh

ose pA

ssion

is excellen

ce, w

ill edu

cA

Te An

d em

pow

er every

sTud

enT To

excel A

cA

dem

icA

lly A

nd

As A confidenT, compAssionATe ciTizen wiTh impeccAble chArAcTer And A globAl perspecTive Through

eng

Ag

ing

, pe

rso

nA

lly

ch

All

eng

ing

, A

nd

rel

evA

nT

expe

rien

ces

Th

AT

ins

pir

e le

ar

nin

g f

or

lif

e.

“Character is like a tree and reputation like a shadow.

The shadow is what we keep thinking of; but

the tree is the real thing.”- AbrAHAm lincoln

“ Once there was a tree....and she loved a little boy.And everyday the boy would comeand he would gather her leavesand make them into crownsand play king of the forest....”

– sHel silverstein

HoW to reAcH usWrite: Alamo Heights Independent School District 7101 Broadway San Antonio, Texas 78209Call: 210-824-2483Fax: 210-822-2221Email: [email protected]: www.ahisd.net

visit AHisDTake a look at Alamo Heights Independent School District by arranging a visit to one of our campuses. Our administrative offices are open Monday through Friday from 8:00 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. year-round to assist you. Visitors are encouraged to call two weeks in advance to schedule appointments.

visit AHisD onlineThe Alamo Heights website allows you to personalize your surfing experience! You can check out the latest news stories and events occurring in our classrooms, schools, auditoriums and playing fields, review profiles and program information that is tailored to meet your individual interests at www.ahisd.net

AHisD is blue AnD golD, AnD We Are Also “green.” This report is printed on FSC certified paper. Clear Visions, the print shop that printed this report, has been certified by SmartWood as a Forest Stewardship Council (FSC) Chain-of-Custody printer. Certification of paper mills and forests is an important step in furthering protection of the environment and protecting it for the future. Chain-of-Custody certification is the process of tracking and recording possession and transfer of wood and fiber from the forests of origin, through different stages of production, and delivery to the end user.

When you are finished reading this report, please consider recycling it in the paper collection bins outside of our AHISD campuses. These recycle bins serve as a fund raising mechanism for AHISD schools.

AHisD imAgesThe image of the tree on the front cover was taken from one of the live oak trees saved and transplanted during construction.

tHe AlAmo HeigHts isD boArD oF trustees consists of a group of extraordinary people who voluntarily accept the role of governing the school district. They have made it a priority to share their vision and voice regarding the future of our Alamo Heights school children, and have collectively served now for 30 years, a number that depicts stability and continuity. Board of Trustees (l-r front) Bonnie Giddens, Trustee; Mike Morell, President; Melissa Vaughan, Vice President; (l-r back) Lott McIlhenny, Secretary; Joseph Dubrof, Assistant Secretary; Randall Pollock, Trustee; Lynn Thompson, Trustee and Dr. Kevin Brown, Superintendent of Schools.

District leADersHip: boArD oF trustees

Mike Morell, President

Melissa Vaughan, Vice President

Lott McIlhenny, Secretary

Joseph Dubrof, Assistant Secretary

Randall Pollock

Lynn S. Thompson

Bonnie Giddens

ADministrAtion

Dr. Kevin Brown, Superintendent

Dr. Dana Bashara, Assistant Superintendent for Elementary Education

Dr. Frank Alfaro, Assistant Superintendent for Secondary Education

Mike Hagar, Assistant Superintendent for Business and Finance

Dr. Dick Smith, Director of Human Resources & Communications

Jennifer Faulkner, Director of Instructional

& Information Technology

Kris Holliday, Director of Special Education & Pupil Services

Gene Phillips, Director of Athletics

Sarah Evans, Director of Nutrition Services

cAmpus ADministrAtors

High School

Dr. Linda Foster, Principal

Terri Duncan, Academic Dean

Norm Collins, Assistant Principal

Frank Padilla, Assistant Principal

Junior School

Dr. Cordell Jones, Principal

Max Flores, Assistant Principal

Lizzy Perez, Assistant Principal

Woodridge Elementary School

Debbie Garinger, Principal

David MacRoberts, Assistant Principal

Cambridge Elementary School

Laurel Babb, Principal

Jennifer Flores, Assistant Principal

Howard Early Childhood Center

Stephanie Kershner, Principal

Sylvia Rodriguez, Assistant Principal

our motto: Live Honorably. Act Humbly. Model Dignity.

tAble oF contents: District proFile . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . pAge 2

superintenDent’s messAge. . . . . . . . . . . . . . pAge 3

AcADemic AcHievements Advanced placement scores . . . . . . . . . . . . . pAge 4 Advanced placement scholars . . . . . . . . . . . . pAge 4 sAt/Act scores . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . pAge 5 tAKs test results . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . pAge 6 Academic competition . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . pAge 8 Duke talent search . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . pAge 9

Fine Arts . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . pAge 10

AtHletics . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . pAge 11

personnel . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . pAge 12

tHe strAtegic plAn . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . pAge 16

FounDAtion At WorK . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . pAge 20

www.ahisd.net pAge 1

Photo by M

ark Hum

phries

2012 AHISD Report

District proFile

AHisD progrAm enrollment State Alamo Heights % % # bilingual 16.3% 4.9% 237

career / technology 21.5% 5.0% 238

gifted / talented 7.7% 15.6% 746

special education 8.6% 5.8% 278

AHisD AttenDAnce bounDAriesGeographically, AHISD is one of the smallest school districts in the state, covering only 9.4 square miles. The district serves students from the communities of Alamo Heights, Terrell Hills, Olmos Park, and a portion of North San Antonio.

AHisD buDget & tAxesExpenditures, Maintenance& OperationsInstruction and Rel Serv .................$24,785,004Instruction and School Ldrshp .........$2,880,692Support Services-Students ...............$3,616,870Admin Support Services ....................$1,650,465Support Services-Non Student ........$4, 535,671Total District Expenditures .........$35,818,237

State Recapture (Robin Hood).......$23,885,270

AHISD Tax Rate ........................................ $1.06Int & Sinking Tax / $1000 valuation: .........$0.158Total Taxible Property Value .......$5,320,647,692Assessed Value per Student ................. $1,108,930Levy from AHISD Prop. Tax Rate (est.)............. ...............................................................$60,123,184Current Bond Indebt .......................$105,363,242

Per Pupil Expenditure, M&O ................$7,465(based on enrollment)

AHisD scHools AnD enrollment Howard Early Childhood Center (PK and K) ...................................398Woodridge Elementary ................934Cambridge Elementary ................852Junior School (6-8) ...................1108High School (9-12) ....................1499Total Enrollment ........................4791

stuDent DemogrApHics African American ...................... 1.9%Hispanic ................................... 37.7%White ....................................... 55.8%Asian/Pacific Isl. ........................ 2.6%Native American ....................... 0.4%Economically Disadvantaged ....21.4%College-bound ............................ 92%Dropout Rate ............................ 0.5%Attendance Rate ...................... 95.6%Limited English Proficient ........ 4.8%

teAcHers bY YeArs oF service Numbers in AHISD AHISD % State % beginning teachers 3.0 0.9% 4.6%

1-5 years 58.9 18.1% 28.7%

6-10 Years 64.5 19.8% 22.3%

11-20 years 112.8 34.6% 26.6%

percent oF teAcHers WitH ADvAnceD DegreeState Pine Tree Friendswood Northside North East AHISD Highland ISD ISD ISD ISD ISD Park ISD 21.9% 15.6% 30.1% 33.3% 31.5% 53.3% 67.1%

AverAge YeArs teAcHer experience District Years of ExperienceState ........................................... 11.4Northside ISD ........................... 11.4North East ISD ......................... 11.6Friendswood ISD ..................... 14.0Highland Park ISD................... 14.0Pine Tree (Longview) ............... 13.5Alamo Heights isD ................ 14.7

“ The creation of a thousand forests is in one acorn.”– rAlpH WAlDo emerson

texAs eDucAtion AgencY (teA) FinAnciAl integritY rAting sYstem oF texAs (First):

Superior Achievement Rating

Unplugging their phones and electronic devices is the last thing a teenager is willing to do, but these AHHS students did just that as part of the Thanksgiving unplugged initiative.

severAl stuDent ActivitY HigHligHts

AlAmo HeigHts HigH scHoolNATIONAL ROCKET LAUNCH, Only Team in Nation to Successfully Launch High Altitude Rocket: David Birkey, Robert Casseb, Blake Duckers, Drew Gaiennie, Tynan Guerra, stephan Hough, Greyson Kale, sean Looney, Robert Low, Joey Ortega, Joe soules, William swinny, Justin Trevino and Zach Jones

messAge From tHe superintenDent

The past 12 months have been exciting in AHISD. Our students continue to amaze me. Whether they were setting a record for the number of AP Exams taken and passed, designing the most successful rocket launch in the nation, winning a state championship in soccer, going to state in basketball, winning a 6th national championship in JROTC, winning Destination ImagiNation and UIL academic competitions, or demonstrating their strong character through service to others, our students remind me time and time again that they are talented and hard working. They have a very promising future, and therefore, we as a community do as well.

Alamo Heights ISD provides an exemplary academic experience for students, recognized nationally as one of the top 1% of high schools in the nation for college preparation. However, it is the overall experience, including clubs, athletics, fine arts, JROTC, leadership opportunities, and community service that I think adds to the academic experience to ensure our students are well-rounded people. AHHS placed 4th in the state (out of 249 schools) in the Lone Star Cup, a competition in all UIL activities, including sports, fine arts, and academic competitions. When I walk around our schools, I see students learning in an enriching environment, where they are treated as individuals. Our aim is to customize an experience for each student in a manner that honors their unique needs and talents. Regardless of where those interests and talents lie, we want to have a superior program in which to participate.

This annual report shares many of the accomplishments of our students and staff. It represents our best efforts at providing an exemplary educational experience overall for the children of our community. Our mission statement says that we are “the heart of our community whose passion is excellence.” It is evident to me that our children are the heart of our community, and that the heart you put into them and our schools makes all the difference in their lives.

– Dr. Kevin broWn


AHHs soccer 4A STATE CHAMPIONS, REGIONAL CHAMPIONS, DISTRICT CHAMPIONS

NEW SCHOOL RECORD: AHHS Soccer Team, Most Victories in Regular Season & Most Victories in a Season

ALAMO HEIGHTS INVITATIONAL SOCCER TOURNAMENT: AHHS Soccer Team, 2nd Place

GULF COAST CLASSIC SOCCER TOURNAMENT, GOLD DIVISION: AHHS Soccer Team, Champions

SAN ANTONIO EXPRESS-NEWS RANKINGS: AHHS Soccer Team, #1 Team in San Antonio Area; Boy’s Team of the Year for All Sports

NATIONAL SOCCER COACHES ASSOCIATION OF AMERICA: AHHS Soccer Team, Ranked #3 in Region III and #10 in the Nation (more on page 12)

Photo by M

ary Candee

Photo by M

ark Hum

phries

Photo by M

ark Hum

phries

Photo by M

ark Hum

phries

2012 AHISD Report

Ap & grADuAtion proFilesADvAnce plAcement (Ap) score compArison, 2000-2012 YEAR Total Tests Taken Number of AH Testers Number of AP Tests that AH Students Scored 3 or Better 2012 1113 604 722

2011 994 567 660

2010 957 508 697

2009 875 458 630

2008 913 486 601

2007 831 398 599

2006 671 287 536

2005 587 250 487

2004 491 222 383

2003 492 208 400

2002 403 194 321

2001 234 131 176

2000 235 131 162

grADuAtion proFile2012 Graduating Class................................... 379

Attending Four-Year College/University .......266

Attending Two-Year College ........................... 80

Attending College Out-of-State ...................... 96

Undecided ........................................................... 2

Entering Workforce ......................................... 24

Military Service .................................................. 7

Number in 2012 graduating class does not account for

summer graduates

“Advice From a Tree:- Stand Tall and Proud- Go Out on a Limb- Remember Your Roots- Drink Plenty of Water- Be Content with Your Natural Beauty- Enjoy the View ”

– ilAn sHAnir

Ap® scHolAr AWArDsIt is particularly noteworthy that 174 students at Alamo Heights High School have earned the designation of AP Scholar by the College Board in recognition of their exceptional achievement on college-level Advanced Placement Program® (AP) Exams all of whom took and passed at least three AP exams. High school students took AP exams in May 2012 after completing challenging college-level courses at the high school. While Alamo Heights HS has always performed well on these tests, the most recent results are the best ever. At Alamo Heights HS:

(1) 13 students qualified for the National AP Scholar Award by earning an average grade of 4 or higher on a 5-point scale on all AP exams taken and grades of 4 or higher on eight or more of these exams.

(2) 66 students qualified for the AP Scholar with Distinction Award by earning an average grade of at least 3.5 on all AP exams taken and grades of 3 or higher on five or more of these exams.

(3) 23 students qualified for the AP Scholar with Honor Award by earning an average grade of at least 3.25 on all AP exams taken and grades of 3 or higher on four or more of these exams.

(4) 72 students qualified for the AP Scholar Award by completing three or more AP exams, with grades of 3 or higher

Photo by M

ary Candee

Photo by M

ary Candee

Photo by M

ark Hum

phries

scores continue to soAr: SAT/ACTOver the past 20 years, Alamo Heights SAT scores have increased significantly in spite of the fact that a greater percentage of students take the SAT. The SAT scores are important to students for college admissions and the fact that such a large number of AHHS students take the exams and score very high is outstanding. Admissions offices throughout the nation know that an AHISD graduate has had an excellent preparation for college work. Recently, a writing component was added to the SAT and those scores are now included in an overall score. Similarly, ACT scores have increased over the years in spite of the fact that almost twice as many students take the test today than in 1992.

totAl scHolArsHips oFFereD to 2012 AHHs grADuAtes: $6,743,446, a figure that significantly increased from the previous year

Some Universities attended by 2012 Graduates:Auburn UniversityBaylor UniversityBlinn Community CollegeBoston CollegeBrown UniversityCollege of CharlestonColorado State UniversityColumbia UniversityDrake University George Washington UniversityLewis and Clark UniversityLouisiana State University Middlebury College Midwestern UniversityMount Holyoke College Norwich University Oklahoma State UniversityPrinceton University Rhodes CollegeRice UniversitySt. Mary’s UniversitySt. Phillips CollegeSan Antonio Community CollegeSchreiner UniversitySewanee: The University of the South Southern Methodist UniversitySouthwestern UniversityStephen F. Austin CollegeSyracuse UniversityTexas Tech UniversityTexas A&M UniversityTexas Christian UniversityTexas State UniversityTrinity UniversityUnited States Military Academy—West Point University of Incarnate WordUniversity of AlabamaUniversity of ColoradoUniversity of GeorgiaUniversity of Mary Hardin-Baylor University of MississippiUniversity of OklahomaUniversity of Texas in AustinUniversity of Texas in San AntonioWashington & Lee UniversityWestern State College of Colorado

AlAmo HeigHts HigH scHool nAtionAl merit stuDents: Alamo Heights High School students who were recognized and honored for their academic achievements by the National Merit Scholarship Program include:

nAtionAl merit semi-FinAlists: Anne Adams, Grace Carlin, nathan Engel, Benjamin Giddens, nathaniel Guney, Erik Russell

nAtionAl merit commenDeD: Georgia Budjenska, Tyler Freed, Calvin Giddens, Elizabeth Gilbert, Austin Henderson, Emily Huber, Emily Jacobson, Elisa Kurzban, Haley Kuykendall, Megan Lane, Helen Liljenwall, Colleen O’Gorman, Marlene Renz, Lauren shaffer, Zach Shaffer, Karis Stubblefield, Hannah Wilson

nAtionAl HispAnic scHolArs: Jaqueline Cabello, Leah De Leon, nicholas uretsky, Victoria Young

sAt meAn scoresYear Critical Reading Math Writing AHHS Avg Natl Avg # Tested (AH) 2012 544 565 535 1644 1498 318

Act meAn composite scores Year Texas Avg AHHS Avg Natl Avg # Tested AH 2012 20.8 23.9 20.8 195

nAtionAl merit scHolArsHip progrAmFinalists: ............................................... 6Semi Finalists: ..................................... 6Commended:....................................... 17National Hispanic Students: ............... 4


2012 AHISD Report

2012 is A stAAr trAnsition YeArThe State of Texas Assessments of Academic Readiness (STAAR) has replaced the Texas Assessment of Knowledge and Skills (TAKS), which is the criterion-reference assessment program that has been in place since 2003. STAAR includes the 12 end-of-course (EOC) assessments mandated by SB 1031 in 2007 and the new grade 3-8 assessments mandated by HB 3 in 2009. The following new tests were implemented in the 2011-2012 school year:

Grade 3-8 High School Course* reading – gr.3-8 math english science soc. studies

math – gr.3-8 Algebra i eng i biology World geography

Writing – gr.3-8 geometry eng ii chemistry World History

science – gr.3-8 Algebra ii eng iii physics u.s. History

soc. studies – gr.3-8 *The high school STAAR Tests are COURSE tests, NOT grade level tests

This year has been a transition year as teachers and students shifted from TAKS to STAAR assessment testing. Since this is the first year of STAAR, districts have not received results of 2012 testing except Grade 10 and Grade 11 End of Course results as indicated here due to in-depth State analysis and norming. As a result, there are also no Commended Comparisons to report as has been reported in previous years.

2012 stAAr enD oF course results No. of Students Percent Tested PassedEnglish I 343 84%English I Writing 343 80%Algebra I 157 88%Geometry 179 99%Biology 322 93%World Geography 342 91%

“ You haven’t seen a tree until you’ve seen its shadow from the sky.”

– AmeliA eArHArt

closing tHe AcHievement gAp initiAtiveAHISD is one of the top performing school districts in America. One challenge we face though is eliminating the achievement gap of our low income students who often face many obstacles outside of school that impact learning. The gap in achievement nationally that separates economically disadvantaged students from non-economically disadvantaged students has been the focus of discussion and research for decades. While the gap nationwide narrowed some over that time, it is still a national issue.

In AHISD, our approach is to identify under-achieving students early and aggressively accelerate their learning through targeted interventions, thereby closing the gap between these students and their higher achieving peers. The district, though, is committed to leveling students up rather than leveling down. Students who are not struggling academically must also be provided a challenging program that helps them to thrive. The district does not support one-dimensional, high-stakes state assessments as the sole criterion for analyzing the gaps in achievement. Instead, we also track and analyze gaps from multiple perspectives every nine weeks during the school year. Presented here in abbreviated format is a portion of that analysis.

Principals and Directors have met throughout the year to collect and analyze data on various student groups to plan for instructional interventions. These conversations will continue as instruction is aligned to best meet the needs of all AHISD students to further eliminate this gap in learning. To the right are examples of collected data from the elementary and secondary levels that demonstrate the gap between student groups of low socioeconomic status and non-low socioeconomic students. Non-low income students in AHISD are performing at exceptionally high levels as are many low income students. While we are closing the achievement gap in elementary reading, high school English and math; the District still has work to do to close the achievement gap.

AHJs englisH & reADing clAsses 100% ____________________________ 90% ____________________________ 80% ____________________________ 70% ____________________________ 60% ____________________________ 50% ____________________________ 40% ____________________________ 30% ____________________________ 20% ____________________________ 1st Semester 2nd Semester

AHHs englisH clAsses 100% ____________________________ 90% ____________________________ 80% ____________________________ 70% ____________________________ 60% ____________________________ 50% ____________________________ 40% ____________________________ 30% ____________________________ 20% ____________________________ 1st Semester 2nd Semester

elementArY reADing 100% ____________________________ 90% ____________________________ 80% ____________________________ 70% ____________________________ 60% ____________________________ 50% ____________________________ 40% ____________________________ 30% ____________________________ 20% ____________________________ 1st Semester 2nd Semester

AHJs mAtH clAsses 100% ____________________________ 90% ____________________________ 80% ____________________________ 70% ____________________________ 60% ____________________________ 50% ____________________________ 40% ____________________________ 30% ____________________________ 20% ____________________________ 1st Semester 2nd Semester

AHHs mAtH clAsses 100% ____________________________ 90% ____________________________ 80% ____________________________ 70% ____________________________ 60% ____________________________ 50% ____________________________ 40% ____________________________ 30% ____________________________ 20% ____________________________ 1st Semester 2nd Semester

NonLowSES Low SES % of Student Groups Earning a Passing Grade

stuDent AcADemic AccomplisHmentsAlAmo HeigHts HigH scHoolNATIONAL MERIT SCHOLARS (names featured in special section on page 5) Semifinalists (6), Commended Students (17), and Hispanic Recognition Program (5). Earning the top honors are SEMIFINALISTS: Anne B. Adams, Grace E. Carlin, nathan Engel, Benjamin K. Giddens, nathaniel R. Guney, and Erik B. Russell. COMMENDED students included: Georgia R. Budjenska, Tyler M. Freed, Calvin Giddens, Elizabeth A. Gilbert, Austin D. Henderson, Emily L. Huber, Emily M. Jacobson, Elisa R. Kurzban, Haley M. Kuykendall, Megan E. Lane, Helen Liljenwall, Colleen G. O’Gorman, Marlene K. Renz, Lauren R. shaffer, Zach shaffer, Karis Stubblefield, and Hannah P. Wilson. Students in the NATIONAL HISPANIC RECOGNITION PROGRAM included: Jaqueline Cabello, Leah DeLeon, Elisa R. Kurzban, nicholas uretsky, and Victoria Young

TOP ACT SCORE: Erik Russell, Earned a Perfect Composite Score of 36

NATIONAL ASSOCIATION OF STUDENT COUNCILS, National Gold Council of Excellence Award: AHHs student Council

TEXAS ASSOCIATION OF STUDENT COUNCILS, Outstanding Pride and Patriotism Program, Outstanding Energy and Environment Program, Outstanding Drugs, Alcohol, Safety and Health Program, Outstanding Community Service and Outstanding Student Council, AHHs student Council

YEARBOOK AWARD (Olmos) Balfour Publishing’s National Yearbook Yearbook Award and Texas UIL Award of Distinguished Merit

NEWSPAPER AWARD (The Hoof Print), Texas UIL Award of Achievement

2012 4A UIL STATE ACADEMIC HONORS: Lees Romano, Qualifier

2012 4A UIL REGIONAL ACADEMIC HONORS: Lees Romano, 1st Place, Headline Writing; Hattie Bush, Riley Harrell, and sarah Grace Patton, Qualifiers

2012 4A UIL DISTRICT ACADEMIC HONORS: AHHS Journalism Team, 1st Place; Lees Romano, 1st Place, Headline Writing; Hattie Bush, 2nd Place, Headline Writing, 4th Place, News Writing and 1st Place, Feature Writing; Riley Harrell, 1st Place, News Writing; sarah Grace Patton, 2nd Place, Editorial Writing and Abbey Forney, 5th Place, Feature Writing; Jacob Roth, Ernest Brown and Richard Toback, 2nd Place, Computer Science

NCTE EXCELLENCE IN STUDENT LITERARY MAGAZINES, The Jabberwocky, Excellent Ranking

HUFFINGTON POST PUBLISHED EDITORIAL: Connor Pfeiffer, Stricter Gun Laws Remain an Ineffective Way to Address Crime

CHANNEL ONE NEWS, Student Campaign Reporter: Connor Pfeiffer

SIEMENS MATH, SCIENCE & TECHNOLOGY COMPETITION: Brittany Hardy, Semifinalist

TEXAS COMPUTERS IN EDUCATION ASSOCIATION ROBOTICS: Cullen Guglielmo, Jack nowacek and Luke Donnally, 1st Place, Regionals; Jacob Roth, William swiney and Vanessa Weidman, 3rd Place, Regionals

NATIONAL ROCKET LAUNCH, (See Page 3.)

TEXAS STATE JUNIOR CLASSICAL LEAGUE COMPETITION TOP 5: Kara Bag, Bonnie Berkley, Christopher Castellanos, Jackson DeFreest, Kylie Leung, James nicholson, Patrick Palmer, Zack schaffer, Lindsay shoup, Chandler Wahrmund, Emmy Walters and Catherine Zachry

AlAmo HeigHts Junior scHoolDUKE TALENT IDENTIFICATION PROGRAM (TIP) Jacqueline D. Gunter, Grand (National) Recognition; Elizabeth Barry, samuel Becvar, Jack M. Callahan, issac Castro, Marisol P. De La Garza, Kaitlyn n. Dubrof, Jack Englehardt, Theodore J. Gleinser, Emory C. Gordon, Jacqueline D. Gunter, William E. Krenger, Benita Lee, Gavin Manasco, Ellen McFarland, Logan R. Miller, shawn R. Peake, sterling T. Rios, Kate

A. Russell, William J. Rymer, Helen A. stephens, Diana E. Truumees, James Warman, Ethan s. Weiss, and Andrew Yockey, State Recognition

Jacqueline D. Gunter, Grand (National) Recognition

TEXAS STATE JUNIOR CLASSICAL LEAGUE COMPETITION TOP 5: Andrew Butts, Murphy Grossett and Chase Miller

NATIONAL LATIN EXAM, GOLD MEDALISTS: Chase Miller and James Liljenwall SILVER MEDALISTS: Murphy Grossett, Will Entrekin and Clint Kershner

NATIONAL FRENCH EXAM & LAURÉAT NATIONAL CERTIFICATE: Tom Pheulpin, 4th Place, Level 1 and Elle Lindsey, 10th Place, Level 1

TEXAS COMPUTERS IN EDUCATION ASSOCIATION ROBOTICS: Cullen Guglielmo, Jack nowacek and Luke Donnally, 1st Place, Regionals; Jacob Roth, William swiney and Vanessa Weidman, 3rd Place, Regionals

ACADEMIC UIL: More than 100 Top Ten Honors at local meets in multiple areas to include; 1st Place Sweepstakes Team Trophies; 2nd Place Sweepstakes Team Trophies; 4A Regional 1stPlace Science Team; 4A Regional 1st Place Math Team; 4A Regional 2ndPlace Number Sense Team; 4A Regional 2nd Place Calculator Team; 4ARegional 2nd Place Science Bowl Team; 20 students advanced to Texas Math & Science Coaches Association State Championship Meet; 1st Place Regional Science Olympiad Team and 18th Place State Science Olympiad Team. Jacob Roth, Ernest Brown and Richard Toback, 2nd Place, District UIL Computer Science


Photo by K

ristin Cade

Students enrolled in the innovative new Foundations in Interdisciplinary Learning

(FIL) in Class at AHHS had an opportunity to learn about overcoming obstacles and facing unique challenges from 2012 survivor winner and San Antonio entrepreneur Kim spradlin.

Spradlin shared with the group of students, “Do not be afraid of failing and taking risks.”

In 2012, students took the initiative to found the AHHS chapter of the National French Honor Society. Founding officers include Averie Bartlett, President, Hattie Bush, Vice President, Taylor Puhl, Secretary and Gretta Kershner, Treasurer. There are 15 charter members who will work to implement new academic, social and charitable programs for the coming years.

pAge 8 2012 AHISD Report

stuDent AcADemic AccomplisHmentsAlAmo HeigHts HigH scHool (cont.)NATIONAL LATIN EXAM, GOLD MEDALISTS: Joshua Armstrong, Emily Burnett, Alexandra Gurwitz, Brittany Hardy, James nicholson, Virginia noble, Gabriela sagun, and Jasmine Tata SILVER MEDALISTS: Christian Dunham, Gabrielle Gonzalez, Kendall Hardy, True McManis, Mary Louise Randolph, Erik Russell and Colin stone

NATIONAL FRENCH EXAM & LAURÉAT NATIONAL CERTIFICATE: Michela Caffrey, 6th Place, Level 2, Mary Catherine O’Gorman, 6th Place, Level 2, Benedikt scheifele, 7th Place, Level 3, Laura Kutcheon, 9th Place, Level 1, Devon Lagueux, 9th Place, Level 2 and Averie Bartlett, 10th Place, Level 3

NATIONAL SPANISH EXAM, GOLD MEDALISTS: Ashley Vasquez, Level 4; SILVER MEDALISTS: Tyler Freed and Karla Morales, Level 4; Margaret Fitch, Level 3; BRONzE MEDALISTS: samuel navarro, Mariano Ravelo and Jennifer Zachry, Level 4; and, Andrew Palmer, Level 3

AP SCHOLARS: James Altamirano, Maggie Armendariz, Jeffrey Bailey, West Bakke, Bruce Bartlett, Avva Bassiri, Kara Beadle, Bonnie Berkley, Kyler Bibb, Truman Biggs, Audrey Billups, summre Blakely, spencer Bobbitt, Zoe Bragg, Zoe Brand, Charlotte Burney, Eric Cabello, Jacqueline Cabello, Grace Carlin, Clayton Comeaux, Chloe Conner, Alyssa Cuda, stephanie Dingle, Luke Donnelly, Flor Dunn, sunny Eklund, sloan Evans, Anne Ferguson, Carlos Fuentes, Amanda Garza, Calvin Giddens, Elizabeth Gilbert, Jamie Gonzales, Teresa Hamilton, sean Hammer, Riley Harrell, Timothy Hernandez, Tanner Hickey, Morgan Hiser, Lawrence irvin, Zachary Jones, Kathleen Keahey, Laura Kutchen, Luke Loftus, Carter Long, Ruby Martinez-Berrie, Christopher Mathews, Doris Mauze, Merium Morell, Marielle Morris, Morgan Mueller, samuel noble, samuel noe, Olivia noel, Megan noronha, Hernando Ortega, sapphire Peace, Kara Pyle, John Rascoe, Abigail Reed, Jacob Roth, Alexander Rubin, Raushan shaipulova, Alexandra strange, Thomas Tobin, Brady Vanham, Ashley Vazquez, Lillian Wallace, Mary Walters, Will Westerman, Rachael Woodard and Catherine Zachry

AP SCHOLARS WITH HONOR: Anne Adams, stephen Archer, William Dawley, nathan Engel, Hannah Gibson, nathaniel Guney, Andrew Harris, Anna Heinemeyer, Ryan Kenne, Jemma Miller, nicole nations, Colleen O’Gorman, Patrick Palmer, Derek Patterson, Meghan Peoples, sydney sepulveda, Jasmine Tata, Justin Trevino, shelby Valero, Chandler Wahrmund, Garrett Werner, Hannah Wilson and James Yancy

AP SCHOLARS WITH DISTINCTION: Emily Arnim, Kara Bagg, Robert Benedikt, Julian Berdegue, Katelyn Best-Richmond, Georgia Budjenska, Emily Burnett, Gabriella Campagna, Jace Canty, Josephine Cochran, Cecilia Contreras, Enrique Corona Gonzalez, Zachary Deeds, Blake Duckers, Madeline Flores, Tyler Freed, Ashby Gatens, Benjamin Giddens, Marie Gleichauf, Katherine Grohe, Joel Guerra, sara Hall, Rachel Halvorson, Brittany Hardy, Austin Henderson, Ferdinand Herff, Luis Hernandez, stephen Hough, Gabrielle Hutchinson, Andrew Jacobson, Emily Jacobson, Greyson Kale, Mitchell Katona, Elisa Kurzban, Alexandra Lammers, Megan Lane, shelby Lane, Albert Lee, Frederick Lemaistre, Hunter Lepold, Helen Liljenwall, isaac Luna, samuel McAllister, Mathew Miller, Laura Moreno-Vasquez, James nicholson, Mary Catherine O’Gorman, Peyton Perry, Marlene Renz, Alejandro Rodriguez, Luisa Rodriguez, Erik Russell, James Ryan, Lauren shaffer, Zachary shaffer, Lindsay shoup, Helen smith, Douglas soto, Joe Soules, Karis Stubblefield, sidonie sturrock, Michael Vizza, samuel White, Emily Wright, Victoria Young and Jennifer Zachry

NATIONAL AP SCHOLARS: Katelyn Best-Richmond, Emily Burnett, Gabriella Campagna, Blake Duckers, Marie Gleichauf, Greyson Kale, Mitchell Katona, isaac Luna, Mary Catherine O’Gormon, James Ryan, Helen smith, sidonie sturrock and Michael Vizza

cAmbriDge & WooDriDge elementAriesTEXAS CAVALIERS ART WINNER FOR DISTRICT 10: Mia Marsico, Woodridge Elementary, Earned $1,000 for Woodridge Art Program

CHILD SAFE ART CONTEST: Georgia stone and Pearl Wilson, Woodridge Elementary

YOUNG WRITERS OF AMERICA, WINNING POEM: sarah solis, 4th Grader, Cambridge Elementary

WOODRIDGE DESTINATION IMAGINATION TEAM: The Lumber Lunatics Team: Josie McGarraugh, Hayes ulm, Jack seger, Matthew Markette, McCoy Patterson, Caleb Young and Adam Parker, 8th Place at Global Competition and 3rd Place at State Competition

AHHS student, Erik Russell, accomplished

what less than one-tenth of 1 percent of students can achieve: a perfect composite score of 36 on the ACT test.

DESTINATION IMAGINATION, Project Outreach: Annie Daubert, Cally Decherd, Lauren Hampton, Caspin Jones and Ellery Vaughan, 8th Place, State; 1st Place, Region

AHJS students tour Rackspace, gathering new inspiration from “Rackers” who shared the importance of being part of a team. It’s that same teamwork and fanatical support that allowed Rackspace to become so successful!

“ I hear the wind among the trees Playing the celestial symphonies; I see the branches downward bent, Like keys of some great instrument.”

– HenrY WADsWortH longFelloW


Fine ArtsAHHs bAnDCAPITOL CITY MARCHING FESTIVAL: AHHS Marching Band, 4th Place per classification; 10th Place overallTEXAS LONESTAR CLASSIC: AHHS Drumline & Front Ensemble, 15th PlaceUIL CONCERT & SIGHT READING CONTEST: AHHS Wind Ensemble, Superior Rating & 1st Division, Sight Reading; AHHS Symphonic Band, Superior Rating & Straight 1st Divisions in Sight Reading and Concert

SASI DRUM MAJOR CAMP, University of Houston: AHHS Drum Majors; Jack Roberts, Cameron Kauffman, Jason CastroTEXAS BANDMASTERS ASSOCIATION, Student Leadership Day: AHHS Marching Band, Drum Majors and Section LeadersBANDS OF AMERICA NATIONAL HONOR BAND: Lauren Hampton, AHHS, Drumline-Bass Drum. National Honor Band is a 300-plus-member band composed of students from across the nation. Hampton is one of the only eight-member bass drum line. The band performed in the Tournament of Roses Parade on January 1, 2013.AUSTIN SYMPHONY ORCHESTRA & LONG CENTER FOR THE PERFORMING ARTS TEXAS YOUNG COMPOSERS COMPETITION: Jack Roberts, AHHS, “Into the West” composition selected one of only nine featured in Texas Young Composers ConcertREGION 12 TMEA BAND & ORCHESTRA: Area Band, Michela Caffrey, Katy Roberts, sarah Berton, Bea Johnson, Olivia noel and J.P. Hawk; Regional Band: Michela Caffrey, Katy Roberts, Megan Gomez, sarah Berton, Bea Johnson, Claire Torres, samantha Hill, Emma Jarvis, Michelle Kalbaugh, Olivia noel, Jack Roberts, naomi Pringle, Cameron Kauffman, Alex Maher, Carter Richardson, Leo Garcia,

Adam skoff, J.P. Hawk, Anne Ferguson and Lauren Hampton; District Band: Lial Baki, Laura sauter, Marielle Morris, sedona Limon, John Park, Carly Rotzler, Joe slagle, Chris Madrid, Alexandra Gates, Karolina Duran, Kevin Lyons and Hunter Ortega

AHHs stringsUIL ORCHESTERA CONCERT & SIGHTREADING CONTEST: Varsity Full Orchestra, Varsity Strings, Junior Varsity Strings, Superior Ratings: Freshmen Strings, Excellent RatingsTEXAS STATE SOLO & ENSEMBLE CONTEST: Rachel Halvorson, Outstanding Performer & Superior RankingTEXAS MUSIC EDUCATORS ASSOCIATION 2012 ALL STATE SYMPHONY: Rachel Halvorson, One of Top 16 Violists in Texas

AHHs cHoirAMERICAN CHORAL DIRECTORS ASSOCIATION NATIONAL HONOR CHOIR: sarah DeLay, National Women’s Choir; Amanda Garza, National Mixed ChoirTEXAS STATE SOLO & ENSEMBLE CONTEST: Zach ivy, Amanda Garza, Cita Dunn and Zane Witherspoon, 1st Division Medal; Amanda Garza, Lucy stevens, Kerry Wiegand, Olivia Garcia, Grace Carlin, Phil Cox, Josh Hutchinson, Zach ivy and Josh Torres, 1st Division Medal for Madrigal; Phil Cox, Josh Hutchinson, Olivia Garcia, Grace Carlin, sarah DeLay and Tivi Kaminski, 2nd Division Medal TEXAS MUSIC EDUCATORS ASSOCIATION ALL REGION CHOIR: Grace Carlin, Cita Dunn, Griffin Gaedke, Olivia Garcia, Tivi Kaminski, Bella Paolucci, Allie Rushing, Brenna santos, Joe Whitenton and Zane WitherspoonTEXAS MUSIC EDUCATORS ASSOCIATION ALL STATE MEN’S CHOIR: Zach ivy and Joe WhitentonTEXAS MUSIC EDUCATORS ASSOCIATION ALL REGION TREBLE CHOIR: Cita Dunn, Bella Paolucci, Alexandra Rushing and Brenna santos

Alamo Heights High School Marching Band takes to the field!

AHHS band student, Lauren Hampton, auditioned and earned a place as a member of the Bands of America National Honor Band. She marched with this band in the Tournament of Roses Parade on January 1, 2013. Hampton plays bass drum, one of only eight bass drum line members for BOA. This 300-plus-member band is composed of students from all over the nation. Hampton is pictured here, performing at the BOA Grand Nationals at Lucas Oil Stadium.

Auditioning against singers from across the U.S., sarah DeLay earned a spot in the National Women’s Choir and Amanda Garza secured a place in the National Mixed Choir. This is a prestigious accomplishment for both students and for Alamo Heights High School.

The Austin Symphony Orchestra premiered Jack Roberts’ orchestral composition at the prestigious Texas Young Composers Concert. Roberts’ “into the West” was one of only nine compositions chosen for this concert.

Earning a spot on the All Region Treble Choir: Allie Rushing, Cita Dunn, Brenna santos and Bella Paolucci.

Photo by M

ary Candee

2012 AHISD Report

Fine ArtsAHHs cHoir (cont.)TEXAS MUSIC EDUCATORS ASSOCIATION ALL REGION MIXED CHOIR: Grace Carlin, Griffin Gaedke, Olivia Garcia, Tivi Kaminski, Joe Whitenton, and Zane WitherspoonTEXAS MUSIC EDUCATORS ASSOCIATION PRE AREA & AREA CHOIR: Griffin Gaedke and Joe WhitentonUNIVERSITY OF TEXAS AUSTIN LONGHORN HONOR CHOIR: Grace Carlin, Phil Cox, Marky Estrada, Olivia Garcia, Audrey Oswalt, Bella Paolucci, Josh Torres, Zane Witherspoon and Joe Whitenton

Ahhs ArTART FROM THE HEART CHARITY AUCTION & GALA: Gabrielle Hutchinson & Gabi Campagna, Artwork helped raise over $60,000 for ChildSafe

AhJs bAndPEAK MUSIC FESTIVAL: Honors Band, First Division, Best in Class, Best Band of the Day; Symphonic Winds, First Division, Best in Class; Symphonic Band, Superior Rating; Jazz Band, Superior RatingUIL CONCERT & SIGHT READING CONTEST: Honors Band, Sweepstakes Award; Symphonic Winds, Sweepstakes AwardREGIONAL BAND: sarah Berton and sarah HicksWEST ZONE REGIONAL BAND: Katy Roberts, Eliza Mills, samantha Hill, Bea Johnson, savannah Zars, Katherine Madigan, Christian Madrid, Hondo Bozzo, Ricky Tamez, Leo Garcia, Thomas Redmond and noah Perloff

AhJs sTringsUIL ORCHESTRA CONTEST & SIGHTREADING CONTEST: 8th Grade Orchestra, Superior Rating; 7th Grade Orchestra, Superior Rating

AhJs TheATerHEART OF THE HILLS ONE ACT PLAY FESTIVAL: AHJS Advanced Theater Arts, Excellent Rating; Solen Cowley, All Star Cast and Will Judson, Honorable Mention Cast

Ahisd elemenTAry schoolsTEXAS MUSIC EDUCATORS ASSOCIATION, Featured Performers: Woodridge Elementary, Ritmo!, Music and Movement Performance Ensemble

AtHleticsAHHs FootbAllALL STATE SELECTIONS, District 27 4A: nick uretsky, 1st Team; Daniel McCarty, 2nd TeamALL AREA SELECTIONS, District 27 4A: nick uretsky and Daniel McCarty, 1st Team; Blake Klumpp, 2nd TeamTRI-DISTRICT CHAMPIONSSAN ANTONIO EXPRESS-NEWS ALL DISTRICT: District 27-4A, Superlatives: nick uretsky, Defensive MVP; Kalen Brockwell, Byron Proctor, Tommy Barrow, Cole Bailey and Daniel McCarty, First-Team Offense; Carter Poore, Blake Klumpp, Aaron Rogers, Matt Kelley and Blake Rosenthal, First-Team Defense; Christian Biedenharn, Alexander Thomas and Danny Garza, Second-Team Offense; Colton Bibb, Jay Hargrove, Ben Bass and Matthew Kelley, Second-Team DefenseTEXAS HIGH SCHOOL COACHES ASSOCIATION (THSCA) STATE ALL-STAR FOOTBALL GAME: Invitation to Play: skylar nelsonSAN ANTONIO ALL STAR FOOTBALL GAME, Invitation to Play: Andy Brooks and skylar nelson

AHHs boys bAsKeTbAllNEW AHHS SCHOOL RECORD: Best Season in School History; 34-3 UIL STATE TOURNAMENT: Alamo Heights High School Varsity Team, State SemifinalistsTEXAS ASSOCIATION OF BASKETBALL COACHES (TABC) ALL STATE SELECTION: Ben Lammers and Jeffrey Rodewald

“For in the true nature of things, if we rightly consider, every green tree is far more glorious than if it were made of gold and silver.”

– mArtin lutHer

Photo by M

ark Hum

phries

JroTcALL-SERVICE NATIONAL JROTC COLOR GUARD DRILL COMPETITION: 1st in Nation, JROTC Color Guard Team of Jenessy Jasso, Briann Martinez, Jessica nicholson, Luz Diaz and Melinda Herrera, 8th in Nation, JROTC Color Guard Team of Phillip Lewis, Marcos Zertuche, nicholas Rehberg, Landon Jones and Dylan Yates

SAN ANTONIO EXPRESS-NEWS ALL-AREA: District 27-4A, Superlatives: Jeffrey Rodewald, MVP; Ben Lammers, Defensive Player of the Year; shelby Lane, First Team; Dylan Lieck, Second Team

AHHs girls bAsKeTbAllSAN ANTONIO EXPRESS-NEWS ALL-AREA: District 27-4A: sally stecher and Jackie Cabello, First Team

AHHs bAsebAllALL DISTRICT SELECTIONS, District 27 4A: Brandon Garwood, Carl stephens, Garrett Werner, Garrett iverson and Blake Klumpp, 1st Team; sam Peacock and Cameron Mineo, 2nd Team; Kalen Brockwell, Honorable MentionACADEMIC ALL DISTRICT SELECTIONS, District 27 4A: Cole Bailey, Kalen Brockwell, Greyson Kale, Blake Klumpp, Jacob Maloy, Cameron Mineo, sam Peacock, Robert schuler and Garrett WernerREGIONAL QUARTERFINALIST, AREA CHAMPS, BI-DISTRICT CHAMPS, 2nd PLACE DISTRICTTHSBCA ALL STATE, 3rd Team Catcher: Blake KlumppTHSBCA ACADEMIC ALL STATE: Greyson Kale and Garrett Werner

AHHs boys soccer(see Page 3 for more AHHS Boys Soccer Accolades.)CORPUS CHRISTI GULF COAST CLASSIC ALL-TOURNAMENT TEAM: Carlos Garcia, Alek strimple and Zack Jones; Zack Jones, MVPSAN ANTONIO EXPRESS-NEWS 4A MVP: Zack Jones

SAN ANTONIO EXPRESS-NEWS AREA SUPER TEAM: Zack JonesSAN ANTONIO EXPRESS-NEWS ALL AREA TEAM: Zack Jones, Alek strimple and Matthew strubleSAN ANTONIO EXPRESS-NEWS PLAYER OF THE WEEK: Matthew strubleSOCCER STATE CHAMPIONSHIP ALL-TOURNAMENT TEAM: Christian Garcia, Zack Jones, Alek strimple and Matthew struble; Zach Jones, MVPFOX SPORTS PLAYER OF THE GAME IN

THE STATE CHAMPIONSHIP GAME: Alek strimpleDISTRICT DEFENSIVE PLAYER OF THE YEAR: Zack JonesFIRST TEAM ALL-DISTRICT: Zack Jones, Alek strimple, Matthew struble, Carlos Garcia and Jesus Espin SECOND TEAM ALL-DISTRICT: Diego Hernandez, Joey Ortega, Christian Garcia and Robert WeigelHONORABLE MENTION ALL-DISTRICT: Will Westerman, Miguel Guerra, Luke Donnelly and Mitch KatonaACADEMIC ALL-DISTRICT: Robert Carter, Carlos Garcia, Mitch Katona, Michael Ellis, Jay Hargrove, Alek strimple, Jesus Espin, Zack Jones and Matthew strubleTEXAS ASSOCIATION OF SOCCER COACHES FIRST TEAM ALL REGION: Jesus Espin, Zack Jones, Alek strimple and Matthew strubleTEXAS ASSOCIATION OF SOCCER COACHES FIRST TEAM ALL STATE: Jesus Espin, Zack Jones, Alek strimple and Matthew struble

AHHs swimming & divingSTATE UIL COMPETITION: ian Lemaistre, Gold Medal, Set State Record in Free; Hannelore strash, Gold Medal, 100 Butterfly; Finn scribbick, Gold Medal, 1 Meter Diving; Aidan scribbick, Silver Medal, 1 Meter Diving (First time in history of Texas State Swimming/Diving Championships that siblings won Gold and Silver medals); ian Lemaistre, spencer Aickes, Christopher spears and Travis Lipscomb, Gold Medal, 400 Free Relay; ian Lemaistre, Bronze Medal, Set School Record in 100 Backstroke; Anelise Diener, Alyssa Cuda, Lauren Cuda and Hannelore strash, 5th Place, Set School Record in 400 Free Relay; Erin Deleon, Lauren Cuda, Georgia Budjenska and Anelise Diener, 6th Place, School Record in 200 Medley Relay; ian Lemaistre, Michael Ryan, Christopher spears and Austin Frey, Set School Record in 200 MedleyUS OLYMPIC DIVING TRIALS: Finn scribbickSAN ANTONIO EXPRESS-NEWS ALL AREA TEAM: Austin Frey, 50 Freestyle; Travis Lipscomb, 100 Freestyle; ian Lemaistre, 200 Freestyle; Andrew Cotton, 500 Freestyle; ian Lemaistre, 100 Backstroke; Finn scribbick, 1 Meter Diving; Anelise Diener, 50 Freestyle; Maggie Mayer-Oakes, 100 Freestyle; Hannelore strash, 200 Freestyle, Lauren Cuda, 500 Freestyle, Hannelore strash, 100 Butterfly, Georgia Budjenska, 200 IM; Doris Mauze, 1 Meter Diving

WAter poloREGION IV CHAMPIONS: Girls Water Polo Team (Fourth Consecutive Year); Boys Water Polo Team (Three out of Last Four Years)REGION IV TOURNAMENT MVP: Alyssa Cuda and Colin stoneALL STATE TEAM: Alyssa Cuda and Colin stone, 2nd Team

AHHs boys golf1st PLACE DISTRICT, 4th PLACE REGIONALS

AHHs girls golf2nd PLACE DISTRICT, 7th PLACE REGIONALS

Photo by M

ary Candee

Photo by M

ary Candee

Photo by M

ary Candee

Photo by M

ary Candee


TEXAS ASSOCIATION OF SOCCER COACHES ACADEMIC ALL STATE: Luke Donnelly, Jesus Espin, Zack Jones, Mitch Katona, Joey Ortega, Alek strimple and Will Westerman TEXAS HIGH SCHOOL COACHES ASSOCIATION ACADEMIC ALL-STATE: Mitch Katona, Elite Team (Only 5 players in the State Selected to this Team); Zack Jones and Alek strimple, First Team; Luke Donnelly, Second Team NATIONAL SOCCER COACHES ASSOCIATION OF AMERICA ALL SOUTHWEST REGION: Zach Jones (Only 10 Players Selected from Texas, Louisiana, Oklahoma and Arkansas)REGION IV 4A COACH OF THE YEAR: Bruce FinkTEXAS ASSOCIATION OF SOCCER COACHES SENIOR SHOWCASE: Bruce Fink, Selected to Coach Region IV Game

REGION IV 4A ASSISTANT COACH OF THE YEAR: sergio AlcalaSAN ANTONIO EXPRESS-NEWS COACH OF THE YEAR: Bruce Fink

AHHs girls soccerREGIONAL QUARTERFINALISTS, DISTRICT CHAMPS, CORPUS CHRISTI GULF COAST CLASSIC RUNNER-UPREGION 4A COACH OF THE YEAR: Chris sharpALL STATE 2nd TEAM: Karey Tylman, Elisabeth uhl, sarah Beth Krenger and Emma Russell

ALL REGION 1ST TEAM: Karey Tylman, Elisabeth uhl, sarah Beth Krenger and Emma RussellACADEMIC ALL STATE & ALL DISTRICT: Ruby Martinez-Berrier and Catherine ZachryDISTRICT 53 OFFENSIVE MVP: Elisabeth uhl SAN ANTONIO EXPRESS-NEWS SUPER TEAM: Karey TylmanSAN ANTONIO EXPRESS-NEWS ALL AREA TEAM: Elisabeth uhlALL-DISTRICT, 1st Team: Karey Tylman, Elisabeth uhl, sarah Beth Krenger, Milla Brusenhan, Christa Bunce; 2nd Team: Emma RussellCORPUS CHRISTI GULF COAST CLASSIC, MVP: Milla Brusenhan; Defensive Player of Game: Emma RussellSAN ANTONIO EXPRESS-NEWS ALL AREA TEAM: Elisabeth uhl, Super Team; Karey Tylman

AHHs volleybAllAREA FINALISTSALL STATE: smantha scherrer and McKay KyleACADEMIC ALL STATE: sloan Evans, samantha scherrer, Elizabeth stich, Lauren Brockwell and Jackie Cabello1ST TEAM ALL DISTRICT: Jackie Cabello, samantha scherrer and McKay Kyle2ND TEAM ALL DISTRICT: Lauren Brockwell, sloan Evans and Julia Hogan HONORABLE MENTION ALL DISTRICT: sarah Peoples, Kelsey Mantz and Devon sadosky

AHHs Tennis2012 UIL 4A STATE TEAM TENNIS CHAMPIONSHIPS: AHHS Varsity Tennis Team, 2nd PlaceUIL REGION IV 4A TENNIS TEAM CHAMPIONSHIPS: Marie Lutz and June Wright, 3rd Place, Girls’ Doubles; John King and Kerry Wiegand, 3rd Place, Mixed DoublesREGION IV 4A ALL REGION TENNIS TEAM: Marie Lutz, June Wright, John King and Kerry Wiegand DISTRICT 27-4A CHAMPIONSHIPS: AHHS Varsity Boys’ Tennis Team, 1st Place, Boys’ Division; AHHS Varsity Girls’ Tennis Team, 1st Place, Girls’ Division; AHHS Varsity Tennis Team, 1st Place, Combined Boys’ & Girls’ Division; Enrique Corona and Liam Crawley, 1st Place, Boys’ Doubles; Marie Lutz and June Wright 1st Place, Girls’ Doubles; John King and Kerry Wiegand 1st Place, Mixed Doubles; Jonah Candelario, 2nd Place, Boys’ Singles; Robert Benedikt and Virginia seal, 2nd Place, Mixed Doubles; Ashby Gatens, 3rd Place, Girls’ Singles; Blake Batha and Mariano Ravelo 3rd Place, Boys’ Doubles; Helen Liljenwall and Hannah Wilson 3rd Place, Girls’ DoublesAll the above players were named to the District 27-4A All-District Tennis Team. All the above players who placed 1st or 2nd qualified for the UIL Region IV-4A Tennis Championships.NEISD INVITATIONAL: AHHS Varsity Tennis Team, 2nd Place DISTRIT 27-4A TEAM TENNIS MEET: AHHS Varsity Tennis Team, 1st PlaceREGION IV-4A TEAM TENNIS MEET: AHHS Varsity Tennis Team, 1st Place ROUND ROCK WESTWOOD INVITATIONAL: Marie Lutz and June Wright, 1st Place, Girls’ A Doubles; Liam Crawley, 3rd Place, Boys’ A Singles; John King and Kerry Wiegand, 3rd Place, A Mixed Doubles; Ashby Gatens, 3rd Place, Girls’ B SinglesAUSTIN WESTLAKE’S CHAP/MAROON INVITATIONAL: Jonah Candelario, 1st Place, Boys’ A Singles; Helen Liljenwall and Hannah Wilson, 1st Place, Girls’ B Doubles; Robert Benedikt and Hays Cochran, 2nd Place, B Mixed DoublesNEW BRAUNFELS UNICORN INVITATIONAL: Enrique Corona and Liam Crawley, 3rd Place, Boys’ Doubles; Marie Lutz and June Wright, 3rd Place, Girls’ Doubles; John King and Kerry Wiegand, 3rd Place, Mixed DoublesNEISD/NISD INVITATIONAL: John King, 1st Place, Boys’ A Singles; Jonah Candelario, 2nd Place, Boys’ A Singles; June Wright, 2nd Place, Girls’ A Singles; Helen Liljenwall and Hannah Wilson, 2nd Place, Girls’ A Doubles; Mariano Ravelo and Marie Lutz, 3rd Place, A Mixed DoublesNEISD INVITATIONAL: AHHS Varsity Tennis Team, 3rd Place; June Wright, 2nd Place, Girls’ Singles; John King and Kerry Wiegand, 2nd Place, Mixed Doubles


Photo by M

ary Candee

Photo by M

ary Candee

Photo by M

ary Candee

ACADEMIC ALL DISTRICT: Lauren Brockwell, sloan Evans, Elizabeth stich, Jackie Cabello, samantha scherrer, susi Whitten, Amy Mcintyre, Kelsey Mantz, Hayley Colvard, sarah Peoples, McKay Kyle, Devon sadosky, and Jessica WellfordSAN ANTONIO EXPRESS-NEWS ALL-AREA: District 27-4A: Jackie Cabello, samantha scherrer and McKay Kyle, First Team; sloan Evans and Lauren Brockwell, Second Team COACH’S AWARDS: susi Whitten, Mule Pride; McKay Kyle, New Mule; samantha scherrer, Hustler; sloan Evans, Offensive Player; and, Jackie Cabello, MVP

AHHs boYs TrAcK & fieldREGIONAL QUALIFIERS: David Favorite, High Jump; Josh Torres, 2-Mile Run; Austin Frey, Triple Jump; Garrett iverson, Andy Brooks, Robert Low and nick uretsky, 4 X 100 RelayREGIONAL CROSS COUNTRY TOURNAMENT: Josh Torres, 14th PlaceDISTRICT CROSS COUNTRY TOURNAMENT: AHHS Cross Country Team, 2nd PlaceNEW AHHS SCHOOL RECORD: Josh Torres, 2-Mile Run and Cross Country

AHHs girls TrAcK & fieldREGIONAL QUALIFIERS: Haile Bradley, 4th Place, 100 Meter Hurdles; Tivi Kaminski, 300 Meter Hurdles; shelby shed, Shot Put; Annie Feste, 200 Meter Dash; Hannah Wilson, Annie Feste, Gretta Kershner and Haile Bradley, 4x200 Meter Relay

cheerleAdingUCA NATIONAL HIGH SCHOOL CHEERLEADERS CHAMPIONSHIP: Junior Varsity Cheerleaders, 9th Place in the NationUCA SOUTHWEST REGIONAL CHEERLEADING CHAMPIONSHIP: Varsity Cheerleaders, 1st Place; Junior Varsity Cheerleaders, 2nd PlaceUCA STATE HIGH SCHOOL CHEERLEADERS CHAMPIONSHIP: Varsity Cheerleaders, 1st PlaceCHEER STAR COMPETITION: Varsity and Junior Varsity Cheerleaders, 1st PlaceCHEERLEADING CAMP HONORS: Traditions Award, Leadership Award, 1st & 2nd Place Varsity Extreme Routine, 1st Place Junior Varsity, 2nd Place Varsity, Spirit Sticks Earned by Entire Squad and All-Americans Nominations

AHHs dAnce TeAmTEXAS STATE COMPETITION: Sweepstakes 90 & Above in All Routines, Judges Award, Showmanship, Outstanding Choreography, Outstanding Precision; Overall Best in Class: 3rd Place, Line of Champions; Best in Category: Contemporary, 3rd Place; Open Clog, 1st Place; Pom, 3rd PlaceSHOWMAKERS OF AMERICA COMPETITION, Officer Camp Team Awards: Sweepstakes 90 & Above in All Routines, Special Recognition in Home Routine & Choreography Routine, Superior Performance in Final Day Routine and Grand Champion Award; Individual Awards: Kathleen Keahey, Miss Show Maker Superlative and Gabrielle Hutchinson, Miss Show Maker Superlative & Miss Show Maker Runner-UpSHOWMAKERS OF AMERICA COMPETITION, Line Camp Team Awards: Sweepstakes 90 & Above in All Routines, Most Disciplined, Most Outstanding Home Routine, Most Outstanding Camp Dance; Show Maker Superlatives:

Gabrielle Hutchinson, Kathleen Keahey, Leah Lawrence, sarah Howie, saraBeth DeLay, Allison Calder, Rosalia O’Brian; Individual Awards: Gabrielle Hutchinson, Miss Leaps 1st Runner Up and Miss Turns 1st Runner Up, Miss High Kick 1st Place

AHJs AtHleticsMIMS AWARD: Abigail Gray and Clint Kershner

volleybAllDISTRICT CHAMPS: 8th Grade White Team

girls bAsKeTbAllDISTRICT CHAMPS: 8th Grade White Team and 7th Grade White TeamDIVISION II CHAMPS: 7th Grade Blue Team

TOURNAMENT HONORS: 8th Grade Gold Team, Pre-Season Tournament Winners and 8th Grade Blue Team, Post-Season Tournament, 3rd Place

girls TrAcKMEET OF CHAMPS: 8th Grade Girls Track Team, 1st Place (Finished 2nd Place in District) NEW AHJS SCHOOL RECORD: Hannah schaeffer, Millie Garcia, Caroline Herbold and Jordyn Caruso, 800 Meter-Dash; Abigail Gray, Mile Run; Jenna Frey, Tied Pole Vault Record

“The clearest way into the Universe is through a forest wilderness.”

– JoHn muir


Photo by M

ary Candee

Photo by M

ary Candee

Photo by M

ary Candee

Photo by M

ary Candee

Photo by M

ary Candee

2012 AHISD Report

personnel AccolADesCHILDREN OF UGANDA, Partnership featured a presentation sharing global perspectives of diverse cultures, only school in Texas selected for this honor: Cambridge Elementary

WASHINGTON POST TOP 1% OF HIGH SCHOOLS IN THE NATION: Alamo Heights High School

NATIONAL SCHOOL PUBLIC RELATIONS ASSOCIATION (NSPRA) GOLDEN ACHIEVEMENT AWARD: WEB FORWARD: The Redesign of AHISD’s Website; Team Members included: Tricia Corey, Rose Bradley, Ann Carter, Catherine Berkeley-Jones, Juan Guerrero, Ruth Jungman, Jennifer Faulkner, Dr. Dick smith, Laura Humphries and Patti Pawlik-Perales

COLLEGE BOARD ADVISOR, AP Spanish Language & Culture Exam Development Committee: Ann Mar, Alamo Heights High School

HEB TEXAS EXCELLENCE IN EDUCATION, Elementary Rising Star Award: Dr. Lesley Balido-Dean, Woodridge Elementary, earning $5,000 for her school and $5,000 for herself.

HEB EXCELLENCE IN EDUCATION, FINALISTS: Elementary Rising Star, Dr. Lesley Balido-Dean, Woodridge Elementary, earning $1,000 for her school and $1,000 for herself; Elementary Principal, Dr. Cordell Jones, Woodridge Elementary, earning $2,500 for his school and $1,000 for himself

TEXAS ELEMENTARY PRINCIPALS AND SUPERVISORS ASSOCIATION (TEPSA), District 20 President-Elect: Dr. Dana Bashara

TEXAS SCHOOL PUBLIC RELATIONS ASSOCIATION (TSPRA), President-Elect: Patti Pawlik-Perales

REGION IV 4A BOYS SOCCER COACH OF THE YEAR: Bruce Fink

REGION IV 4A GIRLS SOCCER COACH OF THE YEAR: Chris sharp

SAN ANTONIO EXPRESS-NEWS COACH OF THE YEAR: Bruce Fink

TEXAS ASSOCIATION OF SOCCER COACHES SENIOR SHOWCASE: Bruce Fink, Selected to Coach Region IV Game

REGION IV 4A ASSISTANT COACH OF THE YEAR: sergio Alcala

TRINITY PRIZE FOR EXCELLENCE IN TEACHING NOMINEE & AHISD TEACHER OF THE YEAR: Linda neville, Woodridge Elementary

KENS 5 & SACU GOLDEN APPLE AWARD: Lara Prevost, Cambridge Elementary

spotligHt on excellenceshawn simpson, January 2012; Mary Ellen Cook, February 2012; Andrew Brewer, April 2012; santiago Bosquez, May 2012; Albert Cruz, June 2012; Alfredo Olazaba, September 2012; Tracy Maxwell, October 2012; noel Murphy, November 2012; Ana Campos, December 2012

spotligHt on engAgementColin Lang, “Launching Learning,” February 2012; Carol Fenley, “Tools of the Trade,” April 2012; Summer Enrichment Team: Hilda Hernandez, Mary Reynolds, Ann Veazey, Jimmie Walker and Cynthia Zaldivar, “A Lesson in Summer Learning,” October 2012; Mike norment, Brent Ostos and Liz swayze, “Living On Your Own,” December 2012 (Videos are featured on iTunes U)

Shawn Simpson with students

Dr. Dick Smith and Mary Ellen Cook

Dr. Dana Bashara and Carol Fenley

Colin Lang and Dr Dick Smith

Webmaster: Tricia Corey

Dr. Lesley Balido-Dean

Check presentation to Dr. Cordell Jones and Dr. Lesley Balido-Dean

Linda Neville

Lara Prevost

AlAmo HeigHts scHool FounDAtion 2012-2013 grAnt recipients

Howard Early Childhood Center Holly Ballew, Lee Bibb, Marianne Disabato, Ashley Forrester, Karen McCulloch, Debra Moczygemba, Jimmie Walker and Emily Toffoli

Cambridge Elementary Cammie Blake, Elizabeth Cantu, Heather Craig, Carol Espensen, Rebecca Gibbens, Betsy Hanzel, Gabby Joseph and stephanie Tiner

Woodridge Elementary Dr. Lesley Balido-Dean, Teri Bohlsen, Adrianna Carrillo, Charlotte Dolat, Brenda Gaston, Karen Huber, Roxanna Montes-Bazaldua, suzanne Rea, Amy soupiset, stephanie Tennis and Cynthia Zaldivar

Alamo Heights Junior School Kim Brady, Hyacinth Burt, Darlene Carbajal, Bob Haak, Jeanmarie O’Brien, stefanie Persyn, Lauren Rizzoli, Rachel sadosky, John sheppard, Michael snell and Jeff Wheatcraft

Alamo Heights High School Eric Atkins, Jeanette Branchizio, Xandra Garanzuay, Colin Lang, Ann Mar, suzanne neff, ivette nienstedt, LTC Jose Perez, Mindy Perez and susan Thomas

Robbins Academy Dr. Shaun Hedgepeth

EDC Kris Holliday

totAl grAnts to eDucAtors: ... $100,000


“ If you think in terms of a year, plant a seed, in in terms of ten years, plant trees: if in terms of 100 years, teach the people.”

– conFucius

SAN ANTONIO MAYORAL AND COUNTY JUDGE OUTSTANDING SCIENCE AND MATH TEACHER AWARD: Elizabeth Kreager, Alamo Heights High School

TEXAS ASSOCIATION OF SECONDARY SCHOOL PRINCIPALS (TASSP), Region 20 Outstanding High School Assistant Principal: Terri Duncan

REGION 20 DUAL LANGUAGE TEACHER OF THE YEAR: Carly Leech, Woodridge Elementary

CHILDREN AT RISK GREATER SAN ANTONIO TOP HIGH SCHOOL: Alamo Heights High School

2012 CITY OF SAN ANTONIO GREEN BUILDING AWARDS, Bill Sinkin Solar Award: Alamo Heights ISD, Dr. Kevin Brown, Mike Hagar and Lowell Tacker

ROTARY TEACHER OF EXCELLENCE: Amy Lagueux, February 2012; Ronald Malasky, May 2012

AMERICAN WILDERNESS LEADERSHIP SCHOOL, Scholarship Recipient: Julie Emke, Cambridge Elementary

AMERICAN EDUCATIONAL RESEARCH ASSOCIATION (AERA), Presenter: shannon Blady, Woodridge Elementary

NATIONAL ENDOWMENT FOR THE HUMANITIES, Grant to attend the American Skyscraper: Transforming Chicago and the Nation training sponsored by the Chicago Architecture Foundation, Ann Veazey, Cambridge Elementary

KINDERGARTEN TEACHERS OF AMERICA, Presenters: Lee Bibb, Dan st. Romain, Jyl Barnabee and Carol Fenley, Howard ECC

TEXAS MUSIC EDUCATORS ASSOCIATION (TMEA), Featured Performers: Heather Klossner and Christina urbancyzk, Woodridge Elementary

TEXAS CHOIR DIRECTORS ASSOCIATION (TCDA), Presenter: Heather Klossner, Woodridge Elementary

TEXAS ASSOCIATION OF LITERACY EDUCATION (TALE), Presenter: Roxanna Montes-Bazaldua, Woodridge Elementary

TEXAS COMPUTERS IN EDUCATION ASSOCIATION, Certifications: Michelle Candland, Campus Technology Specialist Certification, Alamo Heights High School; Catherine Berkeley-Jones, Instructional Technology Director Certification, Alamo Heights High School; Lora Lane and Laura Lopez, Instructional Technology Director Certification, Alamo Heights Junior School

AP WORKSHOPS & INSTITUTES, Editor for Curriculum Module El arte: ventana y espejo: Ann Mar, Alamo Heights High School

Dr Dana Bashara and Carly Leech

Dr. Smith and Amy Lagueux

Dr. Brown, Ronald Malasky and Dr Linda Foster

strAtegY one: We will demand all learning be engaging, personally challenging and relevant.

require foreign (or other) language instruction for all AHisD students ensuring that every graduating student is proficient in english and at least one other language.

Action plAn leADers: Dr. Dana Bashara and Jennifer Faulkner

• The team has brainstormed the definition of proficiency and initial discussions about the direction and implications of this initiative.

• Small research teams are formed to make recommendations about best practices evident in other schools.

create authentic opportunities for students to engage in learning outside of the traditional classroom experience.

Action plAn leADers: Lesley Balido-Dean and Roxanna Montes-Bazaldua (2012 Administrative interns)

• The Team has brainstormed ways to work with high school administrators to recruit community stakeholders to support apprenticeships and job mentoring opportunities.

• Additional considerations include investigating partnerships with a variety of community resources with the intent of creating vocational/specialized training leading to licensure.

strAtegic plAnning: Ensuring the Tradition of Excellence for the Next 100 Years

During the 2008-2009 school year, our community, parents, staff and students developed the AHISD Strategic Plan. The plan

contains 52 initiatives. Each year, new initiatives are being implemented while the progress on previously completed actions is

being reviewed to ensure achievement of intended goals. The following pages showcase our most recent initiatives.

strAtegY tWo: We will aggressively confront the social and emotional issues of our community.

conduct voluntary drug testing of students, whose parents have consented, in order to facilitate appropriate interventions.

Action plAn leADer: Gene Phillips

• Program guidelines from two school districts with successful drug testing programs have been reviewed with discussions concerning lessons learned based on their experience.

• The committee is developing a program to include effectively communicating the new program to parents and students.


“ Someone can sit in the shade today because someone planted a tree a long time ago.”

– WArren buFFett

flying Aces promoTe 8 Keys AT Ahhs

Students and teachers joined together and developed a means to create job training at the campus and promote responsibility by creating a business model selling snow cones twice a month. When it’s cold, students keep

customers warm with hot chocolate sales.

strAtegY tHree: We will close the achievement gap.

establish a district-wide student mentoring program targeting defined groups.

Action plAn leADers: Lesley Balido-Dean and Roxanna Montes-Bazaldua (2012 Administrative interns)

• The committee has gathered information from outside sources on possible ideas for a district-wide student mentoring program development.

• Currently members are becoming associated with local area resources.

Differentiate instruction in the core curriculum to address the needs of the defined groups.

Action plAn leADers: Jimmie Walker and Howard Wilen (2012 Administrative interns)

• A committee of teachers from each campus has been established to investigate opportunities for supporting the implementation of Differentiated Instruction on each campus in Alamo Heights ISD.

• The committee will follow the design process to create an overarching design for supporting Differentiated Instruction in the district.

• Action team leaders will accomplish the planning aspects and resources necessary to implement the curriculum.

incorporate instruction for students in grades 5-9 that would include study/organizational skills, problem-solving, decision-making and leadership development components

Action plAn leADers: Jimmie Walker and Howard Wilen (2012 Administrative interns)

• A committee is being formed with an aggressive schedule in the Spring semester to design curriculum in support of the initiatives.

• The committee will include representatives from each campus, students, and parents.

strAtegY Four: We will create an environment where impeccable character is modeled by and expected of each individual.

communicate with our community to reinforce our character development initiative.

Action plAn leADer: Dan st. Romain

• Each campus is working to secure partnerships with local businesses.

• The goal is for each campus is to develop one specific goal-oriented project with each business.

• Monthly updates regarding status of community partnerships are shared at District meetings.

• Select campuses are piloting male mentor programs by which community members (specifically fathers) are mentoring students.

evaluate campus efforts annually to measure the effectiveness of the character education initiative.

Action plAn leADer: Dan st. Romain

• The District committee is using the Eleven Principles of Character, as outlined by the Character Education Partnership (CEP), to assess progress in the area of character education. This framework outlines a national standard for assessment of district character education efforts.

• Each campus is conducting a monthly meeting to target areas of improvement and report back progress and needs assessment to the District committee.

• An evaluation of the progress on District efforts will formulate additional initiatives to enhance achievement.


Ahisd flipped The swiTch on solAr power AT woodridge & Ahhs, 4-11-12

Partnering for Power, Alamo Heights ISD and CPS Energy, “Flipped the Switch” in April 2012, celebrating the solartricity initiative. With the installation of solar panels complete at both Alamo Heights High School and Woodridge Elementary, the district began harnessing the energy of the sun to produce electrical power, which the district has begun selling back to CPS at $.27 per kilowatt-hour. This provides additional income to the district’s operational fund, estimated at $235,000 annually over the next 20 years, revenue that will stay in AHISD. As a result of this initiative, the district earned the prestigious Bill Sinkin Solar Award in conjunction with the 2012 City of San Antonio Green Building Awards.

strAtegY Five: We will ensure a high-performing faculty and staff to accomplish our mission.

establish district-wide professional development targeted at developing leadership capacity in classroom teachers.

Action plAn leADer: Dr. Dana Bashara

• Four interns have monthly learning meetings designed around pre-determined leadership topics supported by guest presenters from AHISD administrative ranks.

• In pairs, administrative interns are leading a total of four action plans from the Strategic Plan.

• Interns are coached once every two weeks to consult about their action plans and facilitate individual learning goals identified early-on to support their leadership development.

• 2012 Administrative Interns: Roxanna Montes-Bazaldua, Lesley Balido-Dean, Jimmie Walker, Howard Wilen

include a reflective evaluation piece (on a phase-in basis) to supplement the current pDAs tool to evaluate teacher growth and effectiveness that includes input from parents and students.

Action plAn leADer: norm Collins

• Last year, the committee determined that a portfolio with a rubric accomplished our needs as set forth by the strategic plan.

• The year culminated with a rubric that we presented to the district administration and the original strategic plan committee.

• In response to that presentation, the committee provided more details and clarification. The original rubric has been edited and the process explained more thoroughly to better understand the concept.

• Teachers reported that the process was a learning experience and feel that the self-reflection will cause them to be better teachers as they will be more purposeful.

• Administrators will receive training for implementation throughout the Spring semester.

implement an induction program for teachers new-to-the-profession.

Action plAn leADer: Dr. Dick smith

• Committee of a principal, assistant principals, and director of athletics met twice a month since January 2012.

• A new-to-the profession five-year Teacher Induction Plan has been developed which includes: ethics training; Performance-based Academic Coaching Teams (PACT) support; district training; after-business hour focus trainings; and supporting campus seminar discussion groups.

• Committee feels strongly that the after-business hour focus trainings should be on-line video presentations. Currently investigating the feasibility of developing and producing ten video training segments.

• Experienced teachers who are new to the district may enter into a “Personalized Education Plan” on selected induction items of interest and attend with concurrence of campus principal.

implement a standardized mentorship program for teachers new to the district.

Action plAn leADer: Dr. Dick smith

• The committee of assistant principals, athletic director and teachers designed a mentor program which included standardized listings of required topics to be covered by central office officials, campus administration, technology department, campus special staff (nurse, guidance services, special education, library services, and instructional technology specialists), and athletic department.

• The program also included mentor training which included: responsibilities of the mentor, categories of mentoring support (personal and professional), and a calendar of sequenced events to discuss throughout the school year.

• The program was approved by the Board of Trustees in February 2012.


Photo by M

ark Hum

phries

strAtegY six: We will create a culture of participation that ensures equitable access to academic and extra-curricular activities.

utilize multiple lines of communication from all district personnel to parents and students.

Action plAn leADers: Dr. Dick smith and Jennifer Faulkner

• The Web Forward initiative to update and enhance the District and campus websites resulted in a complete redesign of all sites. The evaluative phase was completed in December 2012 which included a review with resultant suggestions from administrators, parents and PTOs.

• The District researched, selected and implemented the SchoolMessenger system to enhance communications with parents concerning secondary absences and items of special interest to include notification of school bad weather cancelations and other dangerous events.

• Implemented District-wide Facebook and Twitter communications.

implement curricula in career and technology education that create educational paths to specific post-secondary training and opportunities.

Action plAn leADers: Dr. Frank Alfaro and Terri Duncan

• Meetings have been held with high school Career and Technology Education (CTE) teachers to provide an overview of what we currently provide as well as the requirements to expand the program—certification to teach certain classes, institute 8th grade career interest inventory, and marketing existing courses to generate information and interest in current offerings.

• The Speech class has been transformed into Professional Communications class, a CTE course to heighten awareness of careers after college.


“Friendship is a sheltering tree.”– sAmuel tAYlor coleriDge

woodridge gArden growing sTrong

The Woodridge garden is providing plenty of growth for plants and students alike! With materials and supplies provided by the Woodridge PTO and seeds and plants donated by the Texas A&M Agricultural Extension Service and the Bexar County Master Gardeners, teachers have had the opportunity to enrich curriculum by providing real-world experiences. The learning continues after the bell rings with the implementation of a Garden Club. In 2012, the campus received a 500-gallon Water Collection Tank, made possible through a grant from the Earth Day Network.

pleAse Welcome DiAnne HugHesOn November 1, 2012, Dianne Hughes joined the Alamo Heights School Foundation as its new Executive Director, bringing over 30 years nonprofit experience to the Foundation.

Working with a passionate parent and community Board of Directors, the new Foundation team is poised to grow broad-based community support for its endowment to provide consistent and meaningful investment in Alamo Heights ISD’s academic excellence.

As part of its commitment, the Alamo Heights School Foundation has provided $250,000 to the District to bridge the funding gap created by cuts to teacher salaries and positions. Through its endowment, the Foundation anticipates the school district’s educational future through various endowed positions and programs such as those that are listed.

enDoWeD FunDsThe Foundation’s General Endowment was created in the fall of 2002 with the goal of obtaining long-term financial security for AHISD in support of the District’s programs. Currently, the General Endowment provides the annual salary for the Teacher for Academic Excellence in science. This position was established in 2007 to provide distinguished secondary students advanced opportunities in science education activities such as internships in various science laboratories, independent studies, special projects, and participation in professional science conferences. Ron Malasky, AHHs science Department Chair holds this position.

Rob Boldrick Memorial Fund was established in 1991 in memory of Rob Boldrick, 1974 Alamo Heights graduate to support teachers whose study, training, or program development will help students with a penchant for academic achievement; and those interested in careers in science, mathematics, and language arts. The 2011-2012 Rob Boldrick Award funded two grants to: Jessica Rodriguez and Elizabeth Kreager, investigating Electricity; and Xandra R. Garanzuay, Forensic science Training & Laboratory Equipment

Glenn R. and Sally P. Ramsdell Fund was established through a bequest from Miss Jacqueline Ramsdell. This endowment funds a teaching position in English at AHHS. The Glenn R. and Sally P. Ramsdell Memorial Chair in English is filled with a highly creative, enthusiastic person whose primary task is to nurture excitement in literature for students at AHHS. Kay Caldwell, AHHs English Department Chair holds this position.

Faye Langley Cowden Chair for Elementary Education was established in 1994. Mrs. Cowden, a 1930 graduate of Alamo Heights and former teacher, established the endowment as a commitment to continued excellence in AHISD elementary schools. Carol Espensen, a second grade teacher at Cambridge, holds this position.

The AHISD Wellness Coordinator position was established in 2009 funded solely through Foundation gifts in support of providing a trained professional to help with the social and emotional issues of the community which impact all AHISD schools. Michelli Ramon serves as the District’s Wellness Coordinator.

Reflective of her interests, The Caroline Gose Fund was established in her memory, a 2003 Alamo Heights graduate. The fund supports a joint student-faculty project benefiting the High School and the Alamo Heights community in the areas of journalism, theater or community service. 2012 Recipients: interact Club’s Trip to the North Pole benefitting terminally ill children; Birthdays for Hope benefitting the residents of Haven for Hope.

The Graham Ladenshohn Memorial Lecture Series was established in 1991, in memory of Graham Ladensohn, who loved his teachers. The Graham Ladensohn Memorial Lecture Series brings inspirational and educational speakers to the Alamo Heights Independent School District for faculty and the community. 2012 Lecturer: Dr. Yong Zhao lectured on Designing 21st Century Schools.

The Martha Spoor Young Writers Fund was established in honor of Martha Spoor, a 1987 graduate of AHHS and an English teacher at the Junior School for 14 years. Her goal was to instill in young people a lifelong love of expressing


The Alamo Heights School Foundation has provided vital support for students and teachers in the AHISD for over thirty years. The Foundation is committed to furthering the AHISD mission of encouraging the pursuit of excellence for all students in a supportive, nurturing environment and maximizing individual student potential through challenging curricula and access to the latest technology.

Alamo Heights School Foundation President, Anne Krause, and Superintendent of Schools, Dr. Kevin Brown welcomed Graham Ladenshohn guest lecturer, Dr. Yong Zhao.

Martha Spoor Young Writers Class of 2012

The Foundation’s most exciting and fun event is the Prize Posse that rides every November to award grants to AHISD teachers for special projects, materials, books and other instructional needs.

2011-2012 AHsF grAnts to eDucAtorsAlamo Heights High School:Smart Board+Smart Tools+SmartCurriculum+Smart Students ....................$2,743.00Inquiry Based Data Collection Experimentation.....................................................................$5,000.00Fives on May 9 (AP Calculus Materials Assistance) .. .................................................................... $1,310.33Texas STAAR End-of-Course Coach Workbook........................................................................ $328.50 Alamo Heights Junior School:From Readers to Writers ............................. $336.88Junior School Musical .............................$2,500.00Lights! Camera! Action! ..........................$1,275.74Green Screen Me! ........................................ $249.90SMART Board Interactive Whiteboard ..... $5,245.45See For Yourself! ......................................... $364.55Academic UIL/Science Olympiad EnrichmentMaterials ....................................................$1,150.00Guided Reading Room with Leveled Books ............................................................................... $4,500.00Libros en Espanol para Nuestra Biblioteca.................................................................................$4,000.00

Cambridge:Feeding our “App”etite for Learning ...... $1,000.00Measuring Up! ............................................. $657.90All Hands-On Science ..............................$2,805.14

Woodridge:Woodridge School Store Wagon ................ $500.00The Letterheads .........................................$1,145.00Padres por la Educacion ...........................$1,267.50Service Learning “Si” ................................$1,070.00Read It Your Way at the Daily CAFÉ ....$6,867.50Growing a Generation of Readers ...........$1,200.00IXL Math for Woodridge .......................$3,500.000

Howard:Every Minute Counts Literacy Cart .......$3,500.00Picture This! ................................................. $802.00Starting Off on the “WRITE” Track .......$5,000.00

Woodridge/Cambridge:STEMscopes .............................................$3,936.20

Woodridge/Cambridge/Howard:Action Potential! Brain- Research Study Group .................................................................... $2,138.00

Robbins:Calculators for Robbins Academy ...........$1,021.80

totAl grAnts to eDucAtors: ..... $65,415

themselves in their writing through the use of critical thinking and creativity. The fund supports an intense summer writing workshop for AHISD 7th and 8th graders.

The Charles Urschel Guenther Theater Arts Fund was established in 2008 in memory of Charles Guenther, a 1983 Alamo Heights graduate who loved providing technical assistance for Alamo Heights High School dramatic productions. The fund assists the Theater Arts Department at the High School with its theater productions.

The Ida M. Kennedy Fund was established in memory of Mrs. Kennedy, a math teacher at the Junior School. She was remembered for her ability to inspire her students, individualize her curriculum, and encourage academic excellence for her math students and the students she served by sponsoring the National Junior Honor Society.

The Johnnie Eng Fund was established to honor the impact Mr. Eng had on his students and colleagues. As a result of the Johnnie Eng Fund, six teachers were selected to attend special training at the Schlechty Center as part of the AHISD strategic plan. During the 2011-2012 academic year, this training with additional funding was used to develop curriculum coordination and alignment for Social Studies in Alamo Heights ISD (K-12).

Two newer funds were established in 2011: The Shine Bright Fund in memory of Sarah Chidgey Hughes, an elementary school teacher, and in honor of her mother, Denise Chidgey, who taught for over 30 years at Woodridge. The other fund is the Paul A. Foerster Math Fund in honor of his 50 years of teaching at Alamo Heights High School and in support of math teachers. When mature, both funds will be used to support instruction and recognize teachers.

The Alamo Heights School Foundation has its origin in the creation and administration of academic scholarships. For the 2011- 2012 academic year, $27,400 was awarded in scholarships to AHHS graduates.

scHolArsHipsThe Bob Ware Memorial Scholarship awards scholarships to Alamo Heights seniors who are involved in extra-curricular activities at AHHS and whose achievements are above expectations. 2012 Recipient: Dylan Lieck

The Oma E. Vordenbaum Scholarship is also for graduating seniors who demonstrate intellectual curiosity and a love of learning, perseverance, strength of purpose, an honest and direct approach, trustworthiness, unselfishness, neatness in work and appearance, and respect for others. These were qualities Mrs. Vordenbaum exemplified and valued in others. 2012 Recipients: Blake Duckers and Emmy Walters

The W. W. and Anna May Campbell Scholarship provides scholarships for AHHS graduates who plan to attend state or other publicly supported colleges and universities. Recipients are selected based on scholastic ability and financial need. 2012 Recipients: Emil Boehm, Dakota Bowen, Austin Gay, Michelle Gonzaba, Kathleen Johnson, Gage Liesman, William McLeod, Chelsey Monroe, Audrey Pfeil, and Audrey stipe

The Shirley Fitch English Memorial Scholarship awards an annual scholarship to a graduating senior who has demonstrated academic effort, improvement, and perseverance as well as demonstrated school spirit through involvement in extracurricular activities. 2012 Recipient: Emily Meier

The Jon McWilliams Memorial Award is presented to a student-athlete who, most importantly, is a decent, honest young person, and a worthy citizen of the school and larger community. The recipient is a good student who has shown determination, and who, through spirit and dedication, has worked to achieve his or her personal best in competitive athletics representing Alamo Heights High School. 2012 Recipient: Maddie Flores


“To exist as a nation, to prosper as a state, and to live as a people, we must have trees.” – tHeoDore roosevelt

The Alamo Heights School Foundation honors and supports students in their pursuit of higher education providing scholarships to Alamo Heights High School deserving seniors.

ALAMO HE IGHTS I SD7101 B roadwaySan An ton io , TX 78209

Non-Profit OrganizationU.S. Postage

PAIDPermit No. 1305

San Antonio, Texas

our mission: the alamo heights independent school district, … · alamo heights isd 2012 annual...

Documents