A Holiday Message from Dr. Montoya

I want to wish you and your families all the joys of this holiday season. BISD campuses and offices will be closed December 22 through January 2. Classes and regular district operations will resume on Monday, January 5, 2015. Thank you and best wishes for a happy and prosperous new year.

Pace Math Team Earns First Place

Pace Early College High School earned the 1st Place Team Award at the 3rd Annual Texas A&M University Kingsville 2014 Javelina Cup Mathematics Competition held on Saturday, December 13, 2014. A total of 20 Pace students took the ALEKS program, a scheduled comprehensive assessment which is currently used for college level course work at Texas A&M Kingsville. Scratch sheets of paper were provided for the students. Students only used the ALEKS calculator provided (ALEKS allows students to use the calculator for some of the problems). The test had a 2 hour limit for approximately 30 problems. The team sponsors are Silviano Ramirez, Carlos Garza, Jose Michi, Gregorio Lopez, and Melissa Tullos. View the Pace student results for the competition: 1st place Team Award: Pace Early College High School Team members: Fernando Martinez, Marissa Flores, Elimelek Acuna, Alan Navarrete. Individual Places 1st place Pace ECHS Fernando Martinez Earned a $1,500 TAMUK scholarship. 2nd place Pace ECHS Pablo Martinez Earned a $1,000 TAMUK scholarship. 3rd place Pace ECHS Marissa Flores Earned a $500 TAMUK scholarship.

BISD Parents to Learn New Skills to Help Their Children

Brownsville ISD is making sure students and their parents in the district know what it takes to ensure students are educated, motivated and prepared for success in high school, college and beyond. Parents are going to have a better advantage at helping their children by taking part in the Parent Academy for Success of Schools (PASOS), an initiative that provides parents with strategies that will help their children on the educational pathway. A group of parents from the school district will take part in the twelve week PASOS program. They will meet for three hours on Saturdays at Rivera High School. PASOS is an initiative of the Texas Valley Communities Foundation, a non-profit organization based in Mercedes that has partnered with the Brownsville Independent School District to train its parents. The class series culminates in a parent group meeting with the school principal, followed by a PASOS graduation ceremony. Parent graduation is a celebration that is typically very powerful to parents who may not have a formal education, and is an opportunity for children to see their parents as graduates themselves. Read the entire media release.

Classified Salary Credit for Degrees

The BISD Board of Trustees approved the 2014-2015 Associate’s or Bachelor’s Degree Salary Credit for Monthly, Hourly, and Bi-Weekly employees on June 25, 2014. Please review the attached information that pertains to this incentive.

Public Hearing

Brownsville ISD will hold a public hearing for the 2013-2014 Texas Annual Performance Report (TAPR) during the Rescheduled Regular Board Meeting to be held on Tuesday, January 13, 2015 at 5:30 PM in the Boardroom of the Administration Building located at 1900 Price Road. The TAPR includes a wide range of information on the performance of students. The report also provides extensive information on school and district staff, programs, and student demographics. Parents, community members and other interested persons are invited to attend.

3 BISD Schools Chosen as National Award Finalists

The National Center for Urban School Transformation has announced that 22 schools from across the country have been chosen as finalists for the National Excellence in Urban Education Award. Among the finalists are three Brownsville elementary schools: US Congressman Solomon P. Ortiz Elementary School, Daniel Breeden Elementary and A.X. Benavides Elementary. “These schools are among the best urban schools in the nation,” stated Dr. Joseph F. Johnson, Jr., Executive Director of the National Center for Urban School Transformation (NCUST), the organization that administers the award program. “Although these schools serve low-income communities with an array of challenges, every finalist boasts achievement results that exceed state averages for all students.” View the media release.

Elementary UIL Contests

Approximately 1,500 elementary students are expected to participate in the BISD Elementary UIL Academic Meet scheduled on Saturday, December 13 at six elementary schools. Aiken, Hudson, Del Castillo, Garden Park, Martin, and Villa Nueva Elementary Schools will host students eager to test their skills in Art, Music Memory, Number Sense, Oral Reading, Ready Writing, and Spelling. Best of luck to all the student participants and thank you to the UIL sponsors and judges who make these events possible.

BISD Bands Smash Record

A new record! A total of 75 students, more BISD and Area 6 students than ever before, will advance to the Texas Music Educators Association (TMEA) All-State Band competition. Students from 5A and 6A high schools in Region 28 recently competed for an opportunity to advance. The All-State Area competition will be held in Alice, Texas on January 10, 2015. Best of luck to our BISD students as they prepare for Area competition. View the BISD results by high school.

BISD Middle School Scientists Compete

The annual BISD Middle School Science Fair was held on Saturday, December 6 at Stell Middle School. A total of 220 middle school science fair projects were entered into this year’s competition. The top five winners in each category will advance to the regional science fair to be held on February 20-21, 2015. Special thanks to Stell Middle School for hosting the event and the many judges who assisted with the competition. View the results.

Manzano Student Wins Region One Art Contest

Anelisa Gonzalez, a student at Manzano Middle school, won the Middle School Division of the Annual Region One Education Service Center Holiday Art Contest. Her winning entry will join the elementary and high school winners on the “official” Region One holiday card that is sent out to area superintendents, school districts, and statewide education agencies. A panel of judges poured through hundreds of entries to select one winner for the elementary, middle school and high school division. View the three winning entries.

New Year, New You!

The BISD Wellness Fitness Center is the place to have fun while getting into shape. The Center recently received funding from the Brownsville Community Improvement Council to expand its activity offerings. Check out these specially themed zumbathon events in January and February. All are free and open to the public for anyone ages 10 and up. Athletic shoes are required. For more information, call (956) 698-0194. •New Year • The 80’s • Mardi Gras

Lopez ECHS to Participate in Ford Program

Lopez Early College High School will participate in a summit on Thursday, December 4 convened by RGV LEAD which will bring together over 100 representatives from 13 school districts and Rio Grande Valley businesses and organizations for a Ford Next Generation Learning (Ford NGL) planning session. The event, designed to better prepare students for both college and careers, will be held at 8 am at The University of Texas-Pan American. Lopez ECHS will begin the Ford NGL Medical Academy which includes the STAMP and Biomedical Project Lead The Way programs. RGV LEAD has entered into an affiliation agreement with the Henry Ford Learning Institute to implement Ford NGL in the Valley. Ford NGL has five goals for its participating communities: to increase academic achievement, improve preparation for college, career and life, increase high school graduation rates, increase earning potential, and increase community prosperity. All summit participants will have input into a regional master plan of Ford NGL in the Rio Grande Valley. The impact of this collaboration is huge in terms of enhancing college and career readiness for all students.

Ticket Information for the Rivera vs. Brandeis Game on Friday, November 28, 2014 at 7 pm at Texas A & M Kingsville.

The ticket Information is as follows: All Seats are General Admission Pre-Sale @ Sams Stadium Ticket Office Monday-10:00 AM-4:00 PM Tuesday-8:00 AM-4:00 PM Adults: $8.00 Students: $4.00 All tickets at the gate will be $10.00 Stadium parking is $5.00.

3 BISD Schools to Participate in GenTX Week

The GenTX Application Campaign, supported by the Texas Higher Education Coordinating Board, the GenTX Steering Committee, and GenTX partners, will be held November 17-21 at several Texas high schools including Lopez, Pace and Porter Early College High Schools. This initiative seeks to increase the number of students who are applying to college early in their senior year. View the story in The Brownsville Herald.

BISD’s Youngest Scientists Compete

The annual BISD Elementary Science Fair was held on Saturday, November 8 at four middle school sites, Cummings, Garcia, Oliveira and Perkins. Several hundred science fair projects were entered into this year’s competition. Special thanks to the hosting schools and the many judges who assisted. View the list of top winners by contest sites.

BISD Earns Financial Recognition

Brownsville ISD has received two certificates of achievement for the Comprehensive Annual Financial Reporting for fiscal year ended June 30, 2013. BISD received the Certificate of Excellence in Financial Reporting from the Association of School Business Officials International as well as a Certificate of Achievement from the Government Finance Officers Association. These are the highest forms of recognition in governmental accounting and financial reporting. BISD’s attainment represents a significant accomplishment by a governmental entity and its management.

Six BISD Schools to Provide Tax Help

For the first time, all six BISD high schools will participate in the Volunteer Income Tax Assistance (VITA) program during the upcoming tax season. Junior and senior business/accounting students at these campuses will train and become certified as volunteer tax preparers through the IRS VITA program. The students will prepare and electronically file basic tax returns for free for those with earned income under $53,000. Parents with children applying for college need to get their tax returns prepared as early as possible in February so that they can complete the on-line Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA). More information regarding schedules and a list of what to bring to the tax appointment will be released at a later date.

You Can Run a 5K

The Brownsville Community Improvement Corporation has awarded the BISD Wellness/Fitness Center funds to start training anyone interested in participating in 5K runs. The training is limited to the first 20 people who register and is open to the public, males and females ages 25 and up. View the attached flyer and registration form.

Pursue Your Passion at STAMP

The Science, Technology, Architecture, and Medical Professions (STAMP) Program which is offered at six BISD Early College High Schools has two upcoming application deadlines on Thursday, December 18, 2014 and Friday, February 20, 2015. BISD 8th grade students can pick up applications from their school counselors and out of district students can download an application at www.bisd.us/stamp and turn them into Michelle Seney, BISD Administration Building, 1900 Price Road, #208D. For questions, call 574-5657 or email maseney@bisd.us.

BISD Bands Place in 5% in Texas

The Hanna Golden Eagle Band and the Lopez Lobo Band represented BISD at the 2014 UIL Texas Marching Competition on Tuesday, November 4 in the Alamodome. At this event, the top high school marching bands from across the state competed in a full day of performances. Both Brownsville Bands presented their best performances of the year ranking them in the top 5% of Texas 6A high school bands. This year marks a decade in which the Hanna and Lopez Bands have consistently advanced to the State UIL Marching Competition. BISD band students are among the best in Texas. Congratulations to the students, directors, campuses, parents and administrators who make these state level accomplishments possible. It is a source of pride for our school district and the entire Brownsville community.

Public Comment on Cummings

The public is invited to comment on the Cummings Middle School Improvement Required/Targeted Improvement Plan during a public presentation and hearing to be held on Wednesday, November 12, 2014 at 5:30 pm in the Brownsville ISD Boardroom located at 1900 Price Road. TEC 39.106 requires a public hearing since Cummings Middle School received an Improvement Required performance rating in the 2014 state accountability system. Click here to view Cummings’ Improvement Plan.

BISD Bands Students Dominate Region

BISD high school band students, competing against 183 of the top regional players, earned 15 of the 27 available chairs in the Texas Music Educators Association (TMEA) Region 28 Orchestra auditions held on Tuesday, October 28 at Harlingen High School. BISD students also earned 7 of the 11 available first chairs. Twelve BISD students will advance to the TMEA Area audition to compete for chairs in the All-State Orchestra. The All-Region Orchestra will perform on Saturday, November 22 at the Harlingen CISD Performing Arts Center. Congratulations to our outstanding high school musicians and their directors. View the results by school.

Brains at Work

The 2014 BISD Brownsville Inventions Competition was held on Saturday, October 25 at Manzano Middle School. Students from 33 district schools submitted 237 projects. Brainsville Inventions is an activity designed to promote problem solving skills. View the results of this year’s competition by student and category.

Spanish Educators to Tour BISD

Two distinguished educators from Spain will visit Brownsville ISD on Monday, November 3 and Tuesday, November 4. The district is pleased to welcome Esther Salat, Education Councilwoman, Sant Cugat City Hall, and Sam Lardner, Project Director for the Sant Cugat Living Lab. The focus of their visit is to learn about the district’s initial training of teachers ranging from the implementation of methodologies to the evaluation of students. The visitors will hear first-hand accounts from BISD teachers and administrators as they tour district campuses. They hope to take BISD’s best practices and use them with their own students in Catalunya, Spain. The BISD Curriculum and Instruction Department is coordinating their visit.

Hanna and Lopez Bands Are State Bound

Hanna and Lopez High Schools will host pep rallies to recognize their marching bands and wish them luck on their upcoming state competition on Tuesday, November 4 in San Antonio. Hanna’s Pep Rally is scheduled for Friday, October 31 at 12:15 pm in the gym and Lopez’s Pep Rally is Friday, October 31 at 3 pm in the school’s gym. Both schools will also recognize their bands during their football games this weekend.

Two BISD Bands Advance to State Competition

Two BISD high school marching bands, Hanna and Lopez, proved to be the most successful in the entire Rio Grande Valley (RGV) at the UIL 6A Area G Marching Band Competition held on Saturday, October 25 at Gustafson and Farris Stadiums in San Antonio. Competing against 40 bands from San Antonio, Corpus Christi, Laredo, and the RGV, the Lopez Lobo Band earned 4th place and the Hanna Golden Eagle Band earned 6th place. Both BISD bands will advance to the UIL 6A State Marching Championship to be held on Tuesday, November 4 in San Antonio at the Alamodome. The Veterans Memorial Charger Band once again advanced to the final competition and the Rivera Raiders Band made its sixth consecutive appearance at the Area G event. All four BISD marching bands gave exceptional performances. Congratulations to Brownsville band students and staff on their record setting area and state achievements.

Brains at Work

The 2014 BISD Brownsville Inventions Competition was held on Saturday, October 25 at Manzano Middle School. Students from 33 district schools submitted 237 projects. Brainsville Inventions is an activity designed to promote problem solving skills. View the results of this year’s competition by student and category.

Lights On Rally Cancelled

The Lights On Afterschool Rally scheduled for today, Wednesday, October 22, has been cancelled due to inclement weather. For more information, call BISD Grants at 548-8227.

Saluting Our Veterans

Several BISD schools will participate in the Annual Southmost Veterans Parade on Saturday, November 8 at 2 pm. The parade will begin at Porter High School and proceed down Coolidge Street to Southmost Road concluding at Cromack Elementary School, located at the corner of Southmost Road and 30th Street. The Veterans Day Parade is sponsored by the Southmost Veterans Day Parade Committee and the City of Brownsville to honor the brave men and women who have served or are serving in the United States Armed Services. In case of inclement weather, the parade will be held on Sunday, November 9 at 2 pm.

Brownsville ISD: An Early College District

Brownsville ISD’s Early College High Schools were featured in the Fall Issue of Latino Education Magazine which was inserted in Rio Grande Valley newspapers on Sunday, October 19. Comments from Superintendent Dr. Carl A. Montoya were also featured in a SpaceX story in the same magazine. View the ECHS story and photos.

Great Bands, Great Sounds

Five BISD high school marching bands earned 1st Division, Superior ratings at the 72nd UIL Pigskin Marching Competition held on October 19 at the San Benito High School Stadium. BISD bands competed against 24 other UIL Region 28 schools for ratings from 1 to 5 on the level of mastery demonstrated in their performances. Four BISD 6A Bands, Hanna, Lopez, Rivera and Veterans Memorial, have earned spots in the 2014 UIL Area G Marching Contest which will be held on Saturday, October 25 in San Antonio. The BISD bands will compete to advance to the 2014 UIL State Marching Band Championship on Tuesday, November 4 in the Alamodome. Congratulations to these outstanding BISD band programs. View the results by individual BISD campuses.

Money Management for Seniors

Over 700 BISD seniors from all six high schools will attend the Financial Education Summit hosted by U.S. Congressman Filemon Vela on Tuesday, October 28 from 9 am to 3 pm at the Brownsville Event Center. Sessions include Financial Football/Soccer, Get Smart About Credit, Setting Financial Goals, College Calculator and much, much more. Students will also have the opportunity to win a $250 college scholarship. View the details.

BISD Library/Media Services Wins 2014 Mora Honor Award

Brownsville ISD Library/Media Services has been selected to receive the 2014 Estela and Raul Mora Honor Award. The award was established by author and poet Pat Mora and her siblings in honor of their parents. The funds are to be used to promote El Dia De Los Ninos events on or near April 30 and link children to books, languages, and cultures.

BISD Earns National Award

Brownsville ISD is the recipient of the 2014 School District of the Year Award by the National Hispanic Institute (NHI). BISD earned the award for taking the lead in providing special support to young men and women who will play significant future roles as professionals and trained community leaders. Of the many schools that support NIH efforts, Brownsville ISD was selected because it displayed the greatest commitment. Dr. Montoya will receive the award at the NHI Alumni Banquet and Awards Ceremony to be held on Saturday, November 15 in Dallas, Texas. In the letter of award notification, NHI cited the long history of individuals who have been educated by BISD schools and are now successful leaders.

Principals Lead the Way!

Texas Governor Rick Perry has proclaimed October 2014 as “Principals Month” in Texas. Please join Brownsville ISD in recognizing the positive contributions that our elementary and secondary school leaders have made on student achievement in our great state. View the Governor’s proclamation.

Support Veterans Memorial and Safe Driving

Veterans Memorial Early College High School invites everyone to support the “Celebrate My Drive” campaign during National Teen Driver Safety Week, October 15-24, 2014. Veterans Memorial is participating in the program because teen driver safety is important and the school has a chance to win $100,000 or one of two hometown concert events. Make a safe driving commitment once a day, between October 15-24, by logging on celebratemydrive.com and indicate that you want to support Veterans Memorial ECHS by committing to drive safely! Log on here.

BISD Artists Earn BPUB Awards

Several BISD secondary students earned awards in the Brownville Public Utilities Board Public (BPUB) Power Month Poster Contest. Congratulations to Daniela Sosa, Grand Prize, Pace High Early College High School; Alicia Chavez, Hanna Early College High School and Arendi Garcia, Manzano Middle School, People’s Choice Awards; Kathy Estrella, Hanna Early College High School, and Rebecca Cedillo, Stillman Middle School, Honorable Mention. The winning students will be presented with their prizes and certificates on Monday, October 13 at 5 pm at the Brownsville PUB administration building for a congratulatory advertisement in The Brownsville Herald.

It's Time for Pigskin!

Make plans to attend the 72nd Annual UIL Pigskin Marching Competition on Saturday, October 18 at the San Benito High School Stadium. The 5A groups will start performing at approximately 5:45 pm. Tickets are $8 and can be purchased from any BISD high school band director or at the stadium gate on October 18. Seats sold by the band directors are grouped together by campus. Come and support our marching bands from Hanna, Lopez, Pace, Porter, Rivera, and Veterans Memorial High Schools. The BISD students have been preparing since June for this competition and they are ready to entertain you with an enjoyable evening of music, dance, and precision. The 2014 Brownsville Band UIL presentations are titled: Hanna-Countdown; Lopez-Climb; Pace-Music of the Night; Porter-Ancient Voices; Rivera-Stonehenge; and Veterans Memorial-The Explorer.

Power Outage at Veterans and Villa Nueva

Classes at Veterans Memorial High School and Villa Nueva Elementary School will be dismissed today, Thursday, October 9, at 11:30 am, due to a power outage caused by an early morning vehicle accident. Students have been served breakfast and lunch will be available before students leave their campuses. Brownsville PUB is working on restoring the power but all indications are that it will take most of the day. Both schools report that students and employees are safe and coping well with the situation but it is starting to get warm. It has been decided that in the best interests of the students, Villa Nueva Elementary parents will be asked to pick up their children. Parents at Veterans Memorial High School may pick their children up or the students may ride the bus in the cases where someone is available to look after them when they arrive at home. Students without supervision will be allowed to remain on both campuses until the end of the day.The principals are keeping their parents informed via the SchoolMessenger system.

BISD Earns Highest Fiscal Rating

Brownsville ISD officials announced that the school district received the top rating of “Superior Achievement” under the Texas’ Schools FIRST financial accountability rating system. The Superior Achievement rating is the state’s highest, demonstrating the quality of Brownsville ISD’s financial management and reporting system. This is the district’s 11th top rating in the Schools FIRST (Financial Accountability Rating System of Texas), a financial accountability system for Texas school districts developed by the Texas Education Agency in response to Senate Bill 875 of the 76th Texas Legislature in 1999. The primary goal of Schools FIRST is to achieve quality performance in the management of school districts’ financial resources, a goal made more significant due to the complexity of accounting associated with Texas’ school finance system. View the media release.

Top Tier Universities at BISD

Brownsville ISD, in collaboration with representatives from Princeton, Stanford, and Dartmouth Universities, invites Brownsville area 9th – 12th grade students and their parents to attend an information session on Tuesday, October 14 at 7 pm in the Porter High School Auditorium, located at 3500 International Boulevard. For questions, contact Pilar Janis, Lead/Higher Education Counselor, at (956) 548-8251.

Our HR Department is Tops

Governor Rick Perry has proclaimed Wednesday, October 8, 2014 as Texas Human Resources Day. Brownsville ISD’s dedicated Human Resources employees play an important role in our educational system. They serve the needs of our students by recruiting and retaining qualified staff in a timely manner to maximize educational excellence. Hats off to the team in the BISD Human Resources Department. View the proclamation.

Giving From the Heart!

BISD employees generously donated $282,300 to the district’s 2014 United Way campaign. Campus by campus, department by department employees contributed so that the United Way of Southern Cameron County can continue providing support services to local families. Thank you BISD employees for strongly supporting this community organization.

BISD Live On Stage

The BISD Theatrefest Finals 2014 were held on Tuesday, September 30 in the Porter High School Auditorium. A standing-room only audience watched the 28 top performance entries that were selected during an earlier preliminary round. This year’s Theatrefest Finals featured dramatic and humorous interpretations, duet acting, and original monologues. BISD students who are seeking a viable career in theatre arts will be able to use their Theatrefest experience to prepare for the first annual South Texas Theatre Auditions which will be held on Tuesday, November 25 at PSJA North. Several top Texas universities, including UT-Austin, Texas A & M Corpus Christi, Texas A & M Kingsville, UTPA, Webster Conservatory, and the University of Houston, are scheduled to send recruiters to this audition. Since BISD’s Theatrefest first began in 2011, the number of entries has more than tripled with over 106 this year.

Pace Hosts THE BIG EVENT

Pace Early College High School Student Council Officers, Tanya Llanes and Yovanna Soto, in the spirit of community service, are spearheading THE BIG EVENT. On Friday, October 17, 2014, over 600 students have volunteered to provide one day of community service to the campuses in the Pace Cluster and other surrounding non-profit organizations and parks in the Pace zone. Students will clean, plant, paint and serve teachers, students and community members. Students will also earn community service hours for their respective programs and college applications. THE BIG EVENT is an opportunity for Pace Vikings to say “Thank You” to the residents of their community for the support, guidance and leadership they have provided to students throughout their educational careers. Working alongside or assisting the Pace students will be community partners from the Lowe’s Home Improvement Store, the City of Brownsville, Chick Fil A, State Representative Eddie Lucio III, BISD Maintenance Department, BISD Food and Nutrition Services, BISD Transportation Department, and KGBT TV. Tayna Llanes invites interested individuals to contact Pace High School at (956) 548-7700 if they are interested in donating gardening materials or want to participate in THE BIG EVENT. She states, “It will be an initiative unlike any other this community has ever seen. We challenge other community high schools to do something similar to take care of their little piece of Brownsville.”

Enroll in the Sick Leave Bank

The BISD Human Resources Department has announced the opening of the annual Employee Sick Leave Bank enrollment period, October 1-31, 2014, for new and current members. If a BISD employee or immediate family member has a catastrophic illness, the employee may be eligible to withdraw days. View the information. Call (956) 548-8051 or (956) 548-8031 for questions.

Choirs Are Tops Again

It has become a tradition! Brownsville ISD high school choir students once again dominated the Region 28 Texas Music Educators Association (TMEA) District Auditions by earning 93 chairs in the district choir on Saturday, September 27. This number is 20% higher than last year. In addition, BISD students earned four 1st chair positions and six alternate chairs. Hundreds of mid and lower Rio Grande Valley choir students competed at Rivera High School. The students who earned chairs will perform in the TMEA Region 28 District Choir on Saturday, November 15 in the Harlingen Performing Arts Center. Congratulations to these talented BISD students and their directors. View the results by campus.

Supplies for BISD Students

The results are in. The top three winners of the Special Programs School Supply Drive are 1st Migrant Department (256 items), 2nd Human Resources (165 items) and 3rd Adult Continuing Education (97 items). The supplies will be given to students served by the BISD Homeless Youth and Migrant Programs. Thank you to all BISD department employees for your generous donations.

Border SPICES Grant to Benefit BISD

Brownsville ISD hosted a special grant announcement on Tuesday, September 23 in the Boardroom. The district is a partner in the Border SPICES (Special Interventionists in Childcare and Education Services) grant for $1,235,000 which was awarded to the UTB College of Education. The five-year grant from the U.S. Department of Education will increase the number of highly qualified personnel who serve young people, birth to 8 years, with disabilities including children from traditionally underrepresented groups. Specifically, 36 scholars will be given full scholarships to earn M.ED. Advanced Special Education degrees with an emphasis on early childhood and be fully prepared to take the state licensure exams in both special education and early childhood. The grants are available to BISD teachers and teachers from local school districts. For more information, contact Julie Trevino, BISD Grants Administrator, at (956) 548-8227.

Ortiz Selected by TEA for Best Practices

Ortiz Elementary School is one of 11 campuses identified by the Texas Education Agency (TEA) to participate in a best practices case studies project. Each of the 11 campuses was designated by TEA as a High Performing and High Progress Title I Reward School. Congratulations to Ortiz Elementary for being selected. View the entire release.

A Splashing Good Time

The BISD Wellness Fitness Center and Aquatic Center will host a Water Volleyball Tournament for employees on Thursday, October 16. Learn more.

A Splashing Good Time

The public is invited to comment on the Porter High School Formerly Improvement Required/Priority School Targeted Improvement Plan during a public presentation and hearing to be held on Tuesday, October 7, 2014 at 5:30 pm in the Brownsville ISD Boardroom located at 1900 Price Road. TEC 39.106 requires a public hearing since Porter High School received an Improvement Required performance rating in the 2013 state accountability system and Met Standard in 2014. Click here to view Porter’s Improvement Plan.

Public Comment on Porter

The public is invited to comment on the Porter High School Formerly Improvement Required/Priority School Targeted Improvement Plan during a public presentation and hearing to be held on Tuesday, October 7, 2014 at 5:30 pm in the Brownsville ISD Boardroom located at 1900 Price Road. TEC 39.106 requires a public hearing since Porter High School received an Improvement Required performance rating in the 2013 state accountability system and Met Standard in 2014. Click here to view Porter’s Improvement Plan.

The Flu: A Guide for Parents

The U.S. Department of Health and Human Services has provided a handy flu guide for parents. View the brochure in English/Spanish.

Weather Notice

Please be advised that for safety reasons, Dr. Montoya has postponed and/or cancelled all afterschool activities for Monday, September 15 due to inclement weather.

Public Hearing

Brownsville ISD will hold a public hearing to discuss the district’s state financial accountability rating on Tuesday, October 7 at 5:30 pm in the Boardroom of the Administration Building located at 1900 Price Road in Brownsville, Texas.

Walk Rescheduled

The 2014 BISD Walk for the Future has been rescheduled to Saturday, September 20 due to the inclement weather forecast for this weekend. For questions, call the Special Programs Department at 586-8137.

Game Time Change

The starting time for the Hanna vs. Donna football game scheduled for Saturday, September 13 has been changed from 7 pm to 7:30 pm so that there is additional time for the Parents’ Night activities. For more information, call the BISD Athletic Department at 548-8261.

Making History with Five Home Games

Five Brownsville ISD high school football games are scheduled to be played at home on Thursday, September 11 through Saturday, September 13. In the best interests of the student athletes, two of the games will be played at the same time on Friday. The Veterans Memorial High School Athletic Coordinator and the Edinburg High School Coordinator have agreed to play their football game on Friday, September 12 at 7:30 pm at the Veterans Memorial Stadium since Sams Stadium is booked with four other games on Thursday, Friday, and Saturday. All in all, it promises to be an exciting weekend of high school gridiron action in Brownsville, Texas.

The Flu: A Guide for Parents

The U.S. Department of Health and Human Services has provided a handy flu guide for parents. View the brochure in English/Spanish.

Public Hearing

Brownsville ISD will hold a public hearing to discuss the district’s state financial accountability rating on Tuesday, October 7 at 5:30 pm in the Boardroom of the Administration Building located at 1900 Price Road in Brownsville, Texas.

Flu Prevention

Flu season is just around the corner. Brownsville ISD employees are eligible for free flu shots. Find out where by viewing this schedule.

AP Awards

A total of 83 current and former BISD high school students earned Scholar Awards in the College Board Advanced Placement (AP) Program. The AP Program provides willing and academically prepared students with an opportunity to take rigorous college-level courses while still in high school and to earn college credit, advanced placement, or both for successful performance on the AP Exams. The program offers several AP Scholar Awards to recognize high school students who have demonstrated college-level achievement through AP Courses and Exams. Five BISD students earned the top AP Scholar with Distinction Award for receiving an average score of at least 3.5 on all AP Exams taken and scores of 3 or higher on five or more exams. Eight BISD students earned the AP Scholar with Honor Awards which is granted to students who received an average score of at least 3.25 on all AP Exams taken and scores of 3 or higher on four or more exams. A total of 70 district students earned the AP Scholar Award for receiving scores of 3 or higher on three or more exams. View the complete list of BISD students who were awarded these prestigious AP academic distinctions.

It All Starts with 60 Seconds

On International Literacy Day, September 8, Brownsville ISD will join organizations throughout the world to make literacy education accessible to all by supporting the “Lift Off to Literacy” campaign. The International Reading Association and NASA have partnered to help students “Lift Off to Literacy” by providing 60 seconds of literacy activities for 60 days. District educators will implement creative, cross-curricular activities that promote specific literacy skills and engage students of all ages. BISD will help share the international message that developing a habit of reading, writing, listening, and speaking will launch students into successful literate learners. After all, 60 seconds can change your life.

What’s for Supper?

Beginning on Monday, September 1, Brownsville ISD students will have access to a full meal at the end of the school day. Brownsville ISD is participating in the Supper Program through a federally funded program called the Child and Adult Care Food Program (CACFP) administered by the district’s Food and Nutrition Service and the Texas Department of Agriculture. The goal of the program is to improve and maintain children’s health and nutrition, promote good eating habits, and integrate nutritious food through organized after school programs. BISD campuses that offer afterschool programs or enrichment activities can also opt to have a cafeteria serving line at the end of the school day to serve supper. Students only need to provide a school ID to be served. BISD is participating in the Supper Program as part of a continuous effort to provide children with a quality learning environment and the tools necessary to succeed.

BISD Students Lead HOSA

BISD seniors will fill 3 of the 5 officer positions in the Health Occupations Students of America (HOSA) for Area 7 during the 2014-2015. Congratulations to Keila Trevino, Vice-President, Veterans Memorial HS, Advisor Brian Rookstool; Corina Rodriguez, Secretary, Veterans Memorial HS, Advisor Erika D. Martinez; and Matthew Rodriguez, Reporter, Hanna HS, Advisor Julie Parker-Garza. HOSA Area 7, composed of 7,000 members, is the largest in Texas and stretches from Corpus Christi to Laredo to Brownsville. The officer selection process included a rigorous exam, challenging interview, and extensive credentialing process. The preparation for both students and advisors was tremendous. Congratulations to our BISD HOSA officers!!

Our Faculty Artists

The 19th BISD Faculty Art Exhibit is currently on display at the Brownsville Museum of Fine Arts located at 660 E. Ringgold Street. The collection, “Collaborations,” features the art work of several of the district’s very talented teachers. For more information, call the Fine Arts Department at 982-3730.

BISD Schools to Receive Musical Instruments.

Three Brownsville ISD middle schools, Besteiro, Cummings and Lucio, will soon receive $134,882 in musical instruments, repairs, and mouthpieces thanks to The Mr. Holland’s Opus Foundation. An application for support was submitted by the schools and the foundation found their programs to be a worthwhile investment, allowing more students to be able to play and experience the benefits of music education. “We applaud school leadership in Brownsville ISD for recognizing the importance of giving their students opportunities through music education. It’s our goal to remain a partner in the community to help more schools and more kids who want to play music,“ said Felice Mancini, President and CEO. View the release

3 BISD Schools Get Cafeteria Makeovers

When school started on Monday, August 25, students at Canales, Cromack, and Vermillion Elementary Schools were greeted with a big surprise. Their school cafeterias had received stunning, new facelifts over the summer. Students love the new spaces which were thoughtfully designed by the Food and Nutrition Service (FNS) staff with them in mind. The fresh, new cafeteria environments are energetic and very similar to the look and feel of popular chain restaurants. The new spaces sport vibrant colors, modern furniture, and large-scale signs that provide a kid-friendly atmosphere for students to dine and relax with their friends. “We wanted to get away from the traditional, institutionalized look of school cafeterias and make them inviting places for students to gather. This is part of our program’s new branding concept developed by our in-house team,” said Silverio Capistran, FNS Administrator.View the media release.

BISD Open for Labor Day

All BISD campuses and offices will be OPEN on Monday, September 1.

Summer Graduation 2014

Everyone is invited to attend the 2014 Summer Graduation honoring graduates from all BISD high schools on Thursday, August 28 at 7 pm in the Rivera High School gymnasium. Potential summer graduates need to contract a campus counselor immediately. Practice will be held on Thursday, August 28 at 10 am in the Rivera High School gym. Caps and gowns will be available for purchase before the ceremony from 5 – 6:45 pm. Cost is $15.00 for one 8 x 10 graduation photo. KBSD TV will videotape the ceremony.

School Board Election

Monday, August 25 at 5 pm is the deadline for a BISD school board candidate to withdraw his/her name from the ballot. For questions, call 547-4113.

Welcome Back Message

The Brownsville ISD Board of Trustees, Dr. Carl Montoya, and the Area Assistant Superintendents have prepared a message to welcome our students, parents and employees to the 2014-2015 school year. View the video here. Posted August 11, 2014

Overview of TEA Accountability System

The Texas Education Agency produced this brief video which helps explain the state’s annual ratings of schools and districts in less than 2 minutes. View the video here.

54 BISD Schools Meet Standard, Earn 204 Distinctions

The Texas Education Agency released a wealth of good news to Brownsville ISD in its latest 2014 accountability ratings. A total of 54 district schools earned the highest “Met Standard” rating according to the performance index framework which was established last school year. The BISD campuses earned the “Met Standard” rating by meeting four applicable index targets at the elementary and middle school levels and three targets at the high school level. The index targets are: 1-Student Achievement, 2-Student Progress, 3-Closing Performance Gaps, and 4-Postsecondary Readiness. Brownsville also “Met Standard” as a school district. BISD’s good news continues. On closer inspection, individual district campuses also earned 204 Distinction Designations, 134 in elementary, 43 in middle school, and 27 in high school. Distinction Designations are awarded for outstanding achievement in specific areas based on indicators of student performance when individual campuses are compared to 40 demographically similar campuses throughout the state. A total of 28 BISD campuses also earned 100% of their performance safeguards established by the state in the areas of reading and mathematics. Another 11 campuses earned 90-99% of their state safeguards. “These results are cause for celebration in Brownsville. Everyone involved deserves commendation. Our district and campus teams are passionate about student achievement and preparing students for college and careers. Student performance is a continuous process and the state accountability system is extremely complex. We will carefully analyze this student data and look for ways to continue improving our instruction,” said Dr. Carl Montoya, Superintendent. Read the release.

School Board Election

Brownsville ISD will have three school board positions open for the Tuesday, November 4, 2014 election. They are positions 1, 2, and 4. All are 4-year term, at-large positions. The last day to file for a place on the ballot is Monday, August 18 by 5 pm. Ballot applications are available at the BISD Administration Building, 1900 Price Road, Suite #306, Monday – Friday, 8 AM – 5 PM and online. For questions, call 547-4113. Download school board election forms here.

School News

Brownsville ISD is busy preparing for the start of the 2014-2015 school year. Check out the district’s Back to School newsletter to find out immunization requirements, necessary school supplies, grades online, SchoolMessenger information, and much, much more. View the newsletter in English and Spanish.

ubstitute Teacher Information: Revised Final Application Deadline

The application will be open online until Friday, August 15, 2014. Please call the Human Resources Department at 548-8051 to verify that your application and documentation (i.e., reference forms and transcripts) have been submitted for processing. Deadline to submit documentation is Friday, August 22, 2014. Requirements: •Complete Substitute Teacher Application (Visit www.bisd.us). •Submit high school diploma or GED equivalent in English that is recognized by the Texas Education Agency or a regional accrediting agency (Title I and NCLB-No Child Left Behind Act Requirement). •Submit proof of associate degree. •Submit proof of associate degree or higher; or minimum of forty-eight (48) semester college credit hours. (Remedial, vocational, technical and repeated courses will not be accepted.) •Complete references (3 supervisors). •Complete mandatory online training program which will be available until August 31, 2014.

Preparing for the New Year

BISD Superintendet Dr. Carl A. Montoya has announced the administrative reassignments and area assistant superintendent cluster assignments for the 2014-2015 school Year. View the reassignments/AA clusters.

Elementary Math & Science Professional Development Opportunities!

The newly adopted math and science textbooks will be arriving on campuses in the near future. The Curriculum and Instruction Department will be offering teacher trainings from July 28 through July 30, 2014. Please view this link for dates and times. For more information, call 548-8121.

Elementary Math & Science Professional Development Opportunities!

In 2012, the State Board of Education reviewed and revised the Texas Essential Knowledge and Skills (TEKS) for mathematics in kindergarten through grade 8 as well as for high school mathematics courses. The 2014-2015 school year will be the first year of implementation for the newly revised mathematics TEKS for kindergarten through grade 8. TEA has indicated that due to the extensive nature of the changes in mathematics, TEKS for kindergarten through grade 8 and the STAAR testing program for students in grades 3-8 will be significantly affected. The spring 2015 STAAR mathematics assessment for students in grades 3-8 will involve a unique administration based on curriculum frameworks created with the revised TEKS. During the 2014-2015 school year, the Student Success Initiative (SSI) retest opportunities for grades 5 and 8 mathematics will be offered in May and June 2015. Please note that the SSI will still be in effect for reading for grades 5 and 8. View the BISD Board Resolution.

Elementary Math & Science Policy EIE (Local) Suspended for 2014-2015 School Year

In 2012, the State Board of Education reviewed and revised the Texas Essential Knowledge and Skills (TEKS) for mathematics in kindergarten through grade 8 as well as for high school mathematics courses. The 2014-2015 school year will be the first year of implementation for the newly revised mathematics TEKS for kindergarten through grade 8. TEA has indicated that due to the extensive nature of the changes in mathematics, TEKS for kindergarten through grade 8 and the STAAR testing program for students in grades 3-8 will be significantly affected. The spring 2015 STAAR mathematics assessment for students in grades 3-8 will involve a unique administration based on curriculum frameworks created with the revised TEKS. During the 2014-2015 school year, the Student Success Initiative (SSI) retest opportunities for grades 5 and 8 mathematics will be offered in May and June 2015. Please note that the SSI will still be in effect for reading for grades 5 and 8. View the BISD Board Resolution.

Substitute Teacher Information

The application will be open online until Monday, July 21, 2014. Please call the Human Resource Department at 548-8051 to verify that your application and documentation (i.e., reference forms and transcripts) have been submitted for processing. Deadline to submit documentation is Monday, July, 28, 2014. Requirements: •Complete Substitute Teacher Application (Visit www.bisd.us). •Submit high school diploma or GED equivalent in English that is recognized by the Texas Education Agency or a regional accrediting agency (Title I and NCLB-No Child Left Behind Act Requirement). •Submit proof of associate degree. •Submit proof of associate degree or higher; or minimum of forty-eight (48) semester college credit hours. (Remedial, vocational, technical and repeated courses will not be accepted.) •Complete references (3 supervisors). •Complete mandatory online training program which will be available July 29 through August 22, 2014.

Porter Students Wins Car

Illeana Quintanilla, a 2014 Porter High School graduate, is the winner of a brand new 2014 Mazda 3 Hatchback in the BISD Perfect Attendance Contest drawing held on Monday, June 23 at Cardenas Motors in Brownsville. She was one of the 14 finalists, 2 for each BISD high school, who were pre-selected from a pool of 9,570 eligible students. The car giveaway was the finale to the year long contest designed to improve student attendance and enrollment. Superintendent Dr. Carl A. Montoya drew Illeana’s winning number at the event which was attended by high school students, district and campus personnel, local dignitaries and representatives of Cardenas Autoplex and Mazda North American Operations, Gulf Region. Three 1st-3rd runner up prizes were also awarded. Sophia Jimenez, 9th grade, Hanna HS, won a Microsoft Surface tablet; Aguilar Trejo, 12th grade, Porter HS, won Dr Dre Beats; and Jose Moreno, 11th grade, Pace High School, won Dr Dre Beats.

ES/MS Grand Prize Bundles Awarded

Twelve BISD elementary and middle school students won grand prize bundles in the Believe in BISD Perfect Attendance drawing held on Monday, June 23 at 3 pm in the Sunrise Mall Food Court. The giveaway was the culmination of the 2013-2014 contest designed to improve student attendance and enrollment. A total of 96 finalists, 2 per school, were pre-drawn at an earlier date to determine eligibility. Superintendent Dr. Carl A. Montoya drew the winners of the bundles which contained 2 bikes, Dr Dre Beats, 40” Smart TV, Xbox One, iPod nano, and Microsoft Surface. Eight elementary and four middle school students won bundles valued at over $2,000 each. The Canales Elementary School Conjunto performed at the event. Attending school each day pays off in several ways at BISD! Congratulations to Eduardo Casas, Breeden ES; Daniel Garcia, Castaneda ES; Andrea Mendoza, Champion ES; Emily Lozano, Del Castillo ES; Sophia Delgado, Gonzalez ES; Julio Ledezma, Hudson ES; Reyna Morales, Martin ES; Jason Perez, Vermillion ES; Rebecca Pena, Besteiro MS; Maral Sanchez, Garcia MS; Jesus Rodriguez, Stell MS; and Jorge Bentancourt, Vela MS.

Attendance Earns Rewards

Twelve BISD elementary and middle school students will win grand prize bundles in the Believe in BISD Perfect Attendance drawing to be held on Monday, June 23 at 3 pm in the Sunrise Mall Food Court. The giveaway is the culmination of the 2013-2014 contest designed to improve student attendance and enrollment. A total of 96 finalists, 2 per school, were pre-drawn at an earlier date to determine eligibility. Superintendent Dr. Carl Montoya will draw the winners of the bundles which contain 2 bikes, Dr Dre Beats, 40” Smart TV, Xbox One, iPod nano, and Microsoft Surface. Eight elementary and four middle school students will win bundles valued at over $2,000 each. The Canales Elementary School Conjunto will perform at the event. Attending school each day pays off in several ways at BISD!

One BISD Student Will Win a New Car

Twelve BISD elementary and middle school students will win grand prize bundles in the Believe in BISD Perfect Attendance drawing to be held on Monday, June 23 at 3 pm in the Sunrise Mall Food Court. The giveaway is the culmination of the 2013-2014 contest designed to improve student attendance and enrollment. A total of 96 finalists, 2 per school, were pre-drawn at an earlier date to determine eligibility. Superintendent Dr. Carl Montoya will draw the winners of the bundles which contain 2 bikes, Dr Dre Beats, 40” Smart TV, Xbox One, iPod nano, and Microsoft Surface. Eight elementary and four middle school students will win bundles valued at over $2,000 each. The Canales Elementary School Conjunto will perform at the event. Attending school each day pays off in several ways at BISD!

A College-Going Culture

Brownsville ISD high school seniors are applying to colleges in record numbers using the APPLY TEXAS APPLICATION. The June 6, 2014 report shows high percentages for 7 BISD high schools. Counts for the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA) will not be reported until the end of February. The Brownsville Learning Academy, Lincoln Park School and Brownsville Academic Center are included in the counts. Current student enrollment numbers are used in the calculation. For questions, call Pilar Janis in Guidance and Counseling at 548-8251. High School # Apply Texas Applications Apply Texas % FAFSA Counts FAFSA% TASFA Counts FAFSA/ TAFSA% Hanna 587 100% 501 85% 27 90% Porter 354 100% 306 86% 38 97% Pace 326 100% 285 87% 30 97% Rivera 411 100% 321 78% 31 86% Lopez 387 100% 361 93% 26 100% Veterans 421 100% 337 80% 33 88% BECHS 53 100% 47 89% 6 100%

Operation Lone Star Offers Health Services in August

Operation Lone Star will be held in Brownsville, Texas on August 4-8 at Manzano Middle School, located at 2580 W. Alton Gloor Boulevard. Residents who visit Manzano will receive a range of free health services. Operation Lone Star is an annual joint military and civil humanitarian medical mission. The purpose of this collaborative effort is to conduct Medical Innovative Readiness Training Exercises while simultaneously providing free medical services to residents across the Rio Grande Valley. Operation Lone Star has provided free health and medical services to Brownsville citizens for many years. View the detailed information in English and Spanish.

BISD Hosts World’s Largest Swimming Lesson

The Margaret M. Clark Aquatic Center will join the nation’s top water safety and training organizations to present The World’s Largest Swimming Lesson (WLSL) on Friday, June 20 at 10 am. The WLSL event is designed to build awareness about the vital importance of teaching children to swim to help prevent drowning. On June 20 at the same time, waterparks, pools, and other aquatic facilities worldwide will simultaneously present a swimming lesson in an attempt to break the Guinness World Record. Join in this free lesson at the district’s Clark Aquatic Center located at 2901 FM 802. Children need to register by 9:30 am. The same swimming lesson will be taught promptly at 10 am across the globe. For more information, call the Clark Aquatic Center at (956) 698-0060.

Public Meeting to Discuss Budget and Proposed Tax Rate

Brownsville ISD will hold a public meeting at 5:30 pm on Wednesday, June 25 in the Administration Building Board Room, 1900 Price Road, to discuss the school district’s budget that will determine the tax rate that will be adopted. Public discussion is invited. View more information.

Oliveira Band Students Selected for Special Scholarship

The Lagunitas Music Foundation will award $10,000 of summer music scholarship funds to the Oliveira Middle School Band Program in memory of William Carroll. This scholarship will be used to send Oliveira Dolphin band members to summer music camps at various universities throughout Texas. Three band programs in the United States have been selected for this award. Wheeling High School, Wheeling IL (Brian Logan, Director), St. Charles East High School, St. Charels, IL (Jim Kull, Director), and Oliveira Middle School, Brownsville , TX (Mike Kuntz, Director). These schools were selected because Bill Carroll taught all three of these Band Directors when they were students at Buffalo Grove High School. View the release.

Vote for Lucio Teacher

Alexandra Cornejo, a teacher at Lucio Middle School, has been selected to represent Brownsville ISD in the Target, Major League Baseball, and People Magazine’s All Star Teacher Contest. She is a finalist in the contest under the Texas Rangers Major League Team. You can cast your vote for Ms. Cornejo here.

Eat for Free at BISD

Summer is here but the meals continue! BISD Food and Nutrition Service will provide free meals to children 0 to 18 years of age at several designated school and community sites in Brownsville. Free meals are not limited to BISD students. Anyone 18 years of age or younger is welcome to eat for free. The program begins at most locations on Monday, June 9. To encourage participation, children can also enter a contest to win great prizes just by eating at school from June 9 – 27. Chances to win are multiplied when children eat two meals a day for a total of 10 entries in a week. Drawings will be held every Friday until June 27. Adults may purchase a meal at the nominal cost of $2.00 for breakfast and $3.25 for lunch. Fresh fruit, cold milk, healthy breakfast, and nutritious lunches are all available for free. Call (956) 547-5086 to learn more. View BISD Summer Child Nutrition Program sites, dates and times.

Garcia Named to CUBE

Brownsville ISD Board Member Caty Presas-Garcia has been appointed to fill a vacancy on the prestigious Council of Urban Boards of Education (CUBE) Steering Committee. She will serve in this position until March 2015 when CUBE’s Annual Business Meeting takes place at the National School Board Association’s Annual Conference in Nashville, Tennessee. Garcia will have the opportunity to run for election to this seat to finish out the term which expires in 2017. Ms. Garcia’s consistent presence and support of CUBE events, coupled with her energetic and enthusiastic spirit, made her an obvious choice to represent Texas and the region on the Steering Committee. The CUBE is guided by the Steering Committee which seeks to foster effective school board governance in urban school districts. The Steering Committee is comprised of 16 school board members selected by representatives of the school districts that participate in the CUBE program. The BISD Board of Trustees was selected as the recipient of the CUBE Award for Urban School Board Excellence in 2008, the same year that the district also won the coveted Board Prize for making the greatest progress in raising student achievement.

BISD Athletes Earn Cavazos Endowment

The BISD Athletic Department announced the names of the 30 student athlete recipients of the 2014 Johnny N. and Nena S. Cavazos Endowment. The scholarship recipients, 5 per high school, each received $1,000 to continue their education. The annual endowments are available to both male and female athletes who participate in any University Interscholastic League athletic sport. View this year’s Cavazos scholarship recipients.

Attention Benavides ES and Manzano MS Parents

Benavides Elementary has been locked down since a little after 10 am today at the direction of local law enforcement officers due to a situation in proximity to the school. As per the district’s emergency operation plan, students are being relocated by school bus to the Good Shepherd Community Church located at 300 Morrison Road beginning at approximately 2 pm this afternoon. The church has been designated as a staging area so that school officials can release Benavides students to their designated parent or guardian. The parents and guardians will need to show a photo identification. The school is using the district notification system to inform parents and guardians about the relocation. All Benavides Elementary students and employees will be relocated to Good Shepherd Community Church out of an abundance of caution and under the direction of local law enforcement officers. Manzano Middle School students who ride school buses to the area around Benavides Elementary School will be held at the Manzano campus today for pick up by their designated parent or guardian after 2:50 pm which is the end of the school day. The Manzano parents are being notified via the district’s instant notification system which calls parents or guardians at the numbers they provide.

It’s Summer!

Brownsville ISD will offer several academic and recreational programs to students this summer. Free nutritious meals are also available to all children in the community, ages 0 to 18. Most programs will begin on Monday, June 9. View the summer opportunities.

Superintendent Announces Scholarship Recipients

Superintendent Dr. Carl A. Montoya has announced the winners of the 2014 Superintendent’s Scholarships. A total of 75 graduating BISD seniors will each receive $1,000 to attend the college of their choice. The scholarship funds were raised at the 11th Annual Scholarship Golf Tournament hosted by Dr. Montoya at the Rancho Viejo Resort on Saturday, May 10, 2014. Scholarship recipients were selected by a committee of local Brownsville leaders and district personnel. Over 200 student applications were reviewed. “I sincerely thank our sponsors for their enthusiastic support of this scholarship golf tournament. Our local businesses and community organizations come together each year to support our high school graduates and provide them with badly needed college scholarship funds. Sponsor participation has made this tournament one of the largest in the entire Rio Grande Valley,” said Montoya. In the last 11 years, the Superintendent’s Scholarship Golf Tournament has provided $700,000 in scholarships to 599 deserving BISD graduates. Dr. Carl Montoya will personally award the 2014 Superintendent’s Scholarships to the following recipients at their respective high school campuses. View the recipients.

UTB Announces Names of BISD University Scholars

Great news! A total of 61 BISD seniors from all 7 district high schools have been awarded spots in the University Scholars Program at the University of Texas at Brownsville. This renewable scholarship covers tuition, most fees, and $500 for books each semester. Housing is awarded to students based on distance and circumstance. The estimated value of each scholarship is $42,000 for the entire 4 years of college. Of the total number of University Scholars, BECHS earned 1, Porter earned 12, Hanna earned 13, Pace earned 6, Rivera earned 11, Lopez earned 14, and Veterans Memorial earned 4. View the 2014 BISD University Scholars recipients.

Porter Business Students Travel to Indiana for National Conference

Top students from Gladys Porter High School attended the Business Professionals of America (BPA) 2014 National Leadership Conference, “Accelerate Your Future,” in Indianapolis, Indiana, April 30 - May 4, 2014. Gladys Porter High School chapter members, Jacob R. Benavides (12th), Jesus Castillo (12th), Gilbert Renteria, Jr. (12th), and Juan Jose Vela (12th), joined over 5,200 other conference delegates from across the nation to participate in national level business skills competitions, workshops, general sessions, and the national officer candidate campaigns and elections. Besides having had the opportunity to excel, they experienced the city of Indianapolis, Indiana. Brownsville ISD is proud of these four young men who represented their school district and campus at a national level. Alberto Velez is the chapter sponsor.

Better Hearing and Speech Month

Governor Rick Perry has proclaimed May 2014 to be “Better Hearing and Speech Month.” View the Governor’s proclamation.

Art is Alive in BISD

On Saturday, May 10, BISD middle school art students earned the highest number of awards at the Region One Jr. Visual Arts Scholastic (VASE) Event. BISD artists earned a total of 172 medals, 32 silver, the highest award available. A total of 175 BISD students attended the competition and exhibits and participated in activities and workshops. Congratulations to our art students and teachers! View the results by campus.

Giving Hope

Brownsville ISD employees contributed a total of $11,393.95 to support this year’s March for Babies and Blue Jeans for Babies Campaign. Thank you for your generous donations.

Three Teachers Selected for NASA Program

Della V. Benavidez from Besteiro Middle School, Claudia Cortez from Faulk Middle School and Fabian Salcedo from the Brownville Early College High School have been selected from across the nation for the prestigious LiftOff Summer Institute to be held at NASA’s Johnson Space Center in Houston, Texas this summer. This program between Texas Space Grant Consortium and NASA JSC Middle School Aerospace Scholars program, selects teachers from across the U.S. who will increase their knowledge of space education through the LiftOff Professional Development Summer Institute.

BECHS Teacher Selected for NASA Program

Fabian Salcedo, a teacher at the Brownville Early College High School, has been selected from across the nation for the prestigious LiftOff Summer Institute to be held at NASA’s Johnson Space Center in Houston, Texas this summer. View the media release.

School Nurses Are the Best!

Governor Rick Perry has declared Wednesday, May 7 as School Nurse Day. All Texans are urged to recognize school nurses for their unwavering dedication to our children. School nurses are an important part of a child’s health support network, working in collaboration with families, schools, and communities. These health care professionals have to be ready for almost everything, from dealing with a child’s chronic condition to filling the role of first responder in an emergency situation. View the Governor’s proclamation.

5 Names Gates Scholars

Five BISD students have been selected for the 2014 Class of Gates Millennium Scholars (GMS). Congratulations to Jorge Rocha, Brownville Early College High School; Lucero Estrella, Hanna High School; Sherry Hurtado, Pace High School; Priscila Garcia and Abigail Sanchez, Rivera High School. View the story about these Gates recipients and a past recipient who is now a BISD band director in The Brownsville Herald.

One Last Heath Screening Session

The final session for health screenings for full-time employees will be held on Monday, May 5 from 7:30 – 11:30 am in the BISD Boardroom. Anyone who was unable to participate at a campus or department is encouraged to attend. To date, 74% of all full-time BISD employees have participated.

BISD Celebrates El Día de los Niños

Brownsville Independent School District will be celebrating El Día de los Niños on April 30, 2014. Celebrations of El Día de los Niños recognize the tremendous value our young children have in our community and in our collective future. Children represent the hopes and dreams of every community and family. On this day, BISD will celebrate childhood and continue to recognize the importance of ensuring each child in our community has what is needed to succeed. In order to accomplish this, BISD is committed to partnering with other agencies and organizations in our community that can support young children and their families.

NFL Champion!

Congratulations to the Castañeda Elementary Patriots for winning the NFL Championship Game. Castañeda played Benavides Elementary on Saturday, April 26 at Veterans Memorial High School. Way to go Patriots! Thank you to all the students, parents, and employees who made this a spectacular NFL season.

Appreciating Our Internal Auditors

Governor Rick Perry has officially proclaimed May 12-16 as Internal Audit Week in Texas. Internal auditors provide invaluable expertise and contributions. The Governor encourages all Texans to recognize and appreciate the role they play within their respective organizations. View the proclamation.

Students Earn Duke Notice

Congratulations to eighteen BISD 7th grade students who qualified for State Recognition in the 2013-2014 Duke University Talent Identification Program. The program identifies and supports talented students who demonstrate exceptional academic ability and stellar performance on the SAT and ACT by earning scores that match the scores of seniors on a national level. Congratulations to: Priscilla Mayorga, Stell Middle School Vanessa Millot, Stell Middle School Abigail Rocha, Stell Middle School Michelle Campbell, Vela Middle School Majd Abusalim, Oliveria Middle School Kayla Pineda, Perkins Middle School Carlos Soto, Perkins Middle School Tristan Alaniz, Stillman Middle School Katilyn Carr, Stillman Middle School Roberto Delgado, Stillman Middle School Jose Garibay, Stillman Middle School Javier Hinojosa, Stillman Middle School Gerardo Lopez, Stillman Middle School Marisol Lujan, Stillman Middle School Justin Medina, Stillman Middle School Juan Amieva, Manzano Middle School Rodrigo Caraveo, Manzano Middle School Eyne Palacios, Manzano Middle School

BECHS is the BEST!

The Brownsville Early College High School (BECHS) has been recognized as one of the best public high schools in the U.S. News and World Report survey. BECHS was ranked 30 out of 375 Texas schools and was labeled a Gold Medal school. View the rankings.

Funds for Libraries

Four BISD school libraries received 2014 grants from the Laura Bush Foundation for America’s Libraries. Congratulations to Benavides, Paredes, and Garden Park Elementary Schools and Hanna High School. The schools received grants of $5,000 each to expand, update and diversify their library book collections. View the media release and list of recipients.

NFL Football Fever!

Congratulations to all BISD teams that participated in the district’s successful first NFL Flag Football season. The Championships will be played on Saturday, April 26 beginning at 9 am at the Veterans Memorial High School football field. Benavides, Castaneda, Pena and Southmost Elementary teams will play in a single elimination tournament. All NFL Flag Football teams are invited to wear their jerseys and cheer the competing teams. Special thanks to the coaches, parents, students, and Brownsville Parks and Recreation employees who made this first season possible.

BISD Bands Achieve Historic Success!

Brownsville ISD had more bands participate in the UIL Concert and Sightreading Contests than ever before in the 76-year history of district band programs. A total of 29 bands received UIL awards, 20 bands earned a UIL Sweepstakes award, and 16 improved their ratings over last year. The BISD Instrumental Music Department also provided an evaluation performance for 10 bands that were not suited for or eligible for UIL competition. This evaluation performance provided these students with an opportunity to critically analyze their mastery of the TEKS for the Instrumental Music curriculum. In total, a record 47 bands, serving approximately 2,100 students in grades 7-12, were evaluated either internally or through UIL competition. While BISD has always had a strong band program, these results are the best the district has ever produced. Congratulations to our band students, parents, and directors on this history-making achievement! View the results.

Summer School Applications

Online applications for Summer School opportunities will re-open on Thursday, April 17 at 8 am and will close on Monday, April 21 at 5 pm. View the announcement, classified summer vacancy list, and certified vacancy list.

BISD Bands Achieve Historic Success!

Brownsville ISD had more bands participate in the UIL Concert and Sightreading Contests than ever before in the 76-year history of district band programs. A total of 29 bands received UIL awards, 20 bands earned a UIL Sweepstakes award, and 16 improved their ratings over last year. The BISD Instrumental Music Department also provided an evaluation performance for 10 bands that were not suited for or eligible for UIL competition. This evaluation performance provided these students with an opportunity to critically analyze their mastery of the TEKS for the Instrumental Music curriculum. In total, a record 47 bands, serving approximately 2,100 students in grades 7-12, were evaluated either internally or through UIL competition. While BISD has always had a strong band program, these results are the best the district has ever produced. Congratulations to our band students, parents, and directors on this history-making achievement! View the results.

Employee Transfers

All BISD employees are eligible to apply for a transfer. Interested employees may apply online beginning Monday April 28. The deadline is Friday, May 9. For questions, contact Maricela Zarate Puente (Certified) at 548-8031 or Carmelita Rodriguez (Classified) at 548-8051. View the guidelines in English and Spanish.

Supporting March of Dimes

Special thanks to BISD employees for generously donating $5,327.21 to support the 2014 March of Dimes campaign. BISD students, parents and employees will participate in the March of Dimes March for Babies on Saturday, April 12 at 8 am at the Brownsville Events Center. View the March of Dimes thank you note.

National Food Service Leader to Visit BISD

Audrey Rowe, the top Administrator for the Food and Nutrition Service (FNS) at the U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) in Washington, D.C., is scheduled to visit Brownsville ISD. Administrator Rowe is touring BISD’s innovative food service programs including the newly remodeled cafeteria at Skinner Elementary School which was specifically designed to encourage and support student reading. Most recently, Rowe served as Deputy Administrator for Special Nutrition Programs at FNS, leading the effort to pass the Healthy, Hunger-Free Kids Act of 2010, the legislative centerpiece of First Lady Michelle Obama’s Let’s Move! initiative to end childhood obesity related to FNS programs. Her leadership has included roles as Human Resources Administrator in New Haven, Connecticut, and Social Services Commissioner for the State of Connecticut and the District of Columbia. FNS provides children and needy families with better access to food and a more healthful diet through its 15 national nutrition assistance programs and nutrition education efforts. The BISD FNS provides 41,000 student breakfasts and 41,000 school lunches each day with a $35 million budget. The FNS department operates under the USDA nationally and the Texas Department of Agriculture at the state level. The Special Assistance 2 Provision has allowed BISD to serve all students one free breakfast and lunch meal per day, free of charge, since 1992. BISD also offers free meals to children, ages 0-18, each summer.

Wellness if Hot Stuff in BISD!

The BISD Wellness Fitness Center invites you to participate in several activities including a Co-Ed Employee Volleyball Wellness League, Bowling Tournament, Swim Competition, and Mother/Daughter Zumbathon. It’s fun and it’s free. Check it out!

Visual Art Rules in BISD!

Brownsville ISD student artists won 21 Exemplary Rating IV medals and five Distinguished Gold Seal medallions at the State Visual Art Scholastic Event (VASE) held on Saturday, April 5 in Bryan, Texas. Cristina Garza from Veterans Memorial High School won a $300 State VASE scholarship for her self-portrait in the chalk workshop. Twenty-five BISD students participated in the event attending art workshops and viewing the state art exhibit consisting of over 1,700 creations. Congratulations to our young district’s artists!

Employee Health Screenings

Full-time BISD employees who missed the free biometric health screenings can still participate at another district location. Remember to fast 10 hours prior to the screening and water consumption is encouraged. For questions, call 548-8010. View the current schedule of available BISD screening locations.

Summer Programs

The BISD schedule of summer academic programs is now posted on the BISD homepage. Find out the dates, time and locations for 14 programs that will be available to students this summer. View the summer schedule.

BISD Celebrates Early Learning

Early childhood education is vital to our community. Children need a strong early learning foundation to succeed in school and to succeed in life. Week of the Young Child™, April 6-12, 2014, is a time to recognize the importance of early learning and early literacy, and to celebrate the teachers and policies that bring early childhood education to young children. Brownsville ISD recognizes the importance of a quality early childhood education for our youngest learners and takes this time to thank the many educators who work in preparing children acquire a firm foundation in order to be “College Ready, College Connected, College Completed!” Please join Brownsville ISD in continuing to advocate for young children and in thanking all the early childhood educators in our community who work with young learners. Make a difference in our community: • Support early literacy programs. Early reading skills are crucial for young children to be ready for school. • Reach out and thank parents, teachers, and all adults who help young children get a great start. • Support policies at the local, state, and federal levels that provide high-quality early learning opportunities for all young children. BISD campus celebrations for Week of the Young Child™ will include activities such as pajama day, stuffed animal day, purple day, crazy hair day, crazy hat day, and staff appreciation day.

Choirs Earn Sweepstakes

Brownsville ISD high school choirs had a banner year at the Region 28 UIL Concert and Sightreading Contest. A total of 17 BISD choirs participated and 10 were awarded the highest Sweepstakes title by earning a Superior rating in both concert and sightreading. Six choirs earned a Superior rating in concert and will receive plaques. Due to a conflict with the State HOSA state competition, five varsity choirs from Hanna and Veterans Memorial High Schools will compete in the upcoming concert and sightreading contest at the Region 15 Concert next week. View the Region 28 results.

Brownsville ISD Among the Best in Music Ed

Brownsville ISD has been nationally recognized as one of the 2014 Best Communities for Music Education (BCME) in the United States. The announcement was made by the National Association of Music Merchants (NAMM) Foundation. BISD was one of the 376 districts selected from over 2,000 districts that were considered for this prestigious designation. Only 32 school districts in Texas earned this distinction. Now in its 15th year, the Best Communities of Music Education program evaluates schools and districts based on funding, staffing of highly qualified teachers, commitment to standards, and access to music instruction. The NAMM Foundation, with the assistance of researchers at The Institute for Educational Research and Public Service of Lawrence, Kansas (an affiliate of the University of Kansas), evaluate participants on these factors. Designations are awarded to districts and schools that demonstrate an exceptionally high commitment and greater access to music education. View the media release.

Summer Schedule

Brownsville ISD offices will follow the following abbreviated summer administrative schedule beginning on Monday, June 16, 2014 and ending on Friday, August 1, 2014: 7:30 am – 5:30 pm - Monday – Thursday 8:00 am – 12 Noon - Friday BISD offices will be closed the week of June 30 through July 4, 2014.

House Bill 5 Grad Plan

The new House Bill 5 has changed graduation requirements for the incoming 2014-2015 freshman class. View the new requirements.

A Message to Parents

BISD students will be STAAR/EOC testing on March 31 - April 4, 2014. The STAAR/EOC tests are timed. Student attendance on these days is critical. Please stress the importance of rest, proper diet, and a positive attitude so that our students do their very best. It is also important that students arrive to school on time. Please note that no cell phones or electronic devices are allowed on BISD campuses during testing. As per the Texas Education Code, “Any irregularities in test security or confidential integrity may result in the invalidation of student results.” Thank you for your support of our students, schools and district.

Apply for Summer School

The 2014 BISD Summer School online applications are now open. Current, full-time employees may apply here. Late applications will not be accepted after Monday, April 7 at 5 pm.

Drumbeat to Success

The Porter High School Indoor Percussion Ensemble captured first place in Scholastic Marching AA at the Texas Educational Color Guard Association (TECA) state contest held at Canyon High School in New Braunfels, Texas. Congratulations to John Taylor, Drum Line Captain; Luis Solis, Front Ensemble Captain; Victor Camacho, Adrian Cantu, Eros Cisneros, Miguel Cortez, Ricky Garay, Jacob Hernandez, Ricky Hernandez, Ruben Hernandez, Alex Herrera, Juan Macias, Alfredo Morales, Lourdes Ruiz, Manny Rodriguez, and Laura Vera. The ensemble is under the direction of David Jimenez and Michael Segura serves as the percussion tech. This is the culmination of a dream for the Porter group.

3 BISD Schools Advance in One Act Play Competition

After amazing performances by all BISD high schools at the One Act Play Zone competition, Hanna, Veterans Memorial and Porter, were selected to advance to District 32-5A competition in Harlingen on March 26. Holly Sada from Pace and Shelby Mena from Hanna were named Best Actresses and Matthew Rodriguez from Hanna was named Best Actor. Congratulations to all theatre students and their directors. View more information about the upcoming District competition.

Drumbeat to Success

The Porter High School Indoor Percussion Ensemble captured first place in Scholastic Marching AA at the Texas Educational Color Guard Association (TECA) state contest held at Canyon High School in New Braunfels, Texas. Congratulations to John Taylor, Drum Line Captain; Luis Solis, Front Ensemble Captain; Victor Camacho, Adrian Cantu, Eros Cisneros, Miguel Cortez, Ricky Garay, Jacob Hernandez, Ricky Hernandez, Ruben Hernandez, Alex Herrera, Juan Macias, Alfredo Morales, Lourdes Ruiz, Manny Rodriguez, and Laura Vera. The ensemble is under the direction of David Jimenez and Michael Segura serves as the percussion tech. This is the culmination of a dream for the Porter group.

Middle Schools Make Beautiful Music

Our middle school choirs are the best in the region! At the Region 28 UIL Concert and Sightreading contest, BISD middle school students brought home 16 Sweepstakes trophies. The choirs earned sweepstakes by receiving a 1-Superior rating in both Concert and Sightreading. Job well done to the BISD directors and students. View the result by campus.

Porter Business Students Will Attend National Conference

Top students from Gladys Porter High School will be attending the Business Professionals of America (BPA) 2014 National Leadership Conference, “Accelerate Your Future,” in Indianapolis, Indiana, on April 3 - May 4, 2014. Gladys Porter High School chapter members, Jacob R. Benavides (12th), Jesus Castillo (12th), Gilbert Renteria, Jr. (12th), and Juan Vela (12th) will join over 5,000 other conference delegates from across the nation to participate in national level business skills competitions, workshops, general sessions, and the national officer candidate campaigns and elections. Besides having the opportunity to excel, they will experience the city of Indianapolis, Indiana. Business Professionals of America is a national organization for middle school, high school, and college students preparing for careers in business and information technology. The organization’s activities and programs complement classroom instruction by giving students practical experience through application of the skills learned at school. Alberto Velez is the BPA sponsor at Porter High School.

Let’s Play Football!

Brownsville ISD, in conjunction with the Brownsville Parks and Recreation Department, is pleased to announce the 2014 NFL Flag Football schedule for 4th and 5th grade BISD students. All games will be played after school at Oliveira Park, located at 104 El Paso Road, behind the swimming pool. Students must be enrolled at the participating elementaries. For more information, call Fred Tamez, BISD PE/Health Specialist, at 698-0149. View the list of established elementary teams and games.

Our Girls Are Powerful!

Congratulations to the BISD female high school powerlifters who placed at the State Championship in Corpus Christi. View their results.

Let's Celebrate 5 Early College High Schools!

Brownsville ISD will proudly announce that five of the district’s schools have received the Early College High School (ECHS) designation from the Texas Education Agency at a ceremony on Friday, March 7. Educational partners, school district and campus administrators, high school student leaders, and parents are expected to attend the announcement, scheduled for 10:30 AM in the Board Room at 1900 Price Road. Texas Education Commissioner Michael Williams gave final approval to five district high schools, Hanna, Lopez, Pace, Rivera and Veterans Memorial. Brownsville ISD received the largest number of designations, earning 5 of the 44 new ECHS designations awarded statewide. The district already has one ECHS in operation with the Brownsville Early College High School located at the University of Texas - Brownsville campus. Texas now has a total of 109 ECHS campuses across the state. View the release.

Attention Employees

BISD 2014 summer school applications will be available beginning on Tuesday, March 25 at 8:00 am through Tuesday, April 8 at 5:00 pm.

2014-2015 BISD Calendar

At the meeting held on Tuesday, March 4, BISD Board of Trustees approved the calendar for the 2014-2015 school year. View the calendar.

W2’s on Employee Online

BISD’s new Employee Online feature has added the 2013 Employee W2 forms. Located on the BISD homepage, Employee Online can be accessed using devices both inside and outside the district network. BISD Employees can view or print their own payroll and benefit information including check stubs 24 hours a day, 7 days a week. Call the Business Solution Help Desk at (956) 698-1254 for assistance. BISD’s new Employee Online feature has added the 2013 Employee W2 forms. Located on the BISD homepage, Employee Online can be accessed using devices both inside and outside the district network. BISD Employees can view or print their own payroll and benefit information including check stubs 24 hours a day, 7 days a week. Call the Business Solution Help Desk at (956) 698-1254 for assistance.

9 Teams Earn Trip to State DI

A total of nine Brownsville ISD Destination Imagination (DI) teams will advance to the 2014 state tournament to be held on April 11-12 in Austin, Texas. Congratulations to Aiken, Gonzalez, Hudson, Morningside, Sharp and Skinner (2 teams) Elementary Schools and Stell and Stillman Middle Schools. DI is a school-based program devoted to helping students gain practical life skills through interesting, entertaining, and mind-boggling challenges. There are DI affiliates in most states but Texas has the largest number. Approximately 20,000 Texas students participated in Destination Imagination this school year. Congratulations to our DI students and the parents, educators, and community volunteers who support the art and skill of creative problem solving

Thank You!

Governor Rick Perry has proclaimed March 3-7, 2014 to be Educational Diagnosticians’ Week in Texas. Diagnosticians play a vital role in the success of students. Brownsville ISD joins districts across Texas in thanking educational diagnosticians for their many contributions. View the Governor’s proclamation.

Spelling Bee Champs

Brownsville ISD will send its top 8 spellers to the 26th Rio Grande Valley Regional Spelling Bee on Saturday, March 1 at 9 am at the Irma Rangel Building on the Texas State Technical College campus. The public is invited to attend. The students representing BISD are: Omar Nissan Hussain, Hudson Elementary (2014 BISD Champion) Abigail Ytzel Morales, Perkins Middle School (2014 BISD Runner-Up BISD) Soren Bugtong, Vela Middle School Starlika Milinda Bauskar, Burns Elementary School Danna Paola Villanueva, Ortiz Elementary School Oscar Odilio Alejandro, Faulk Middle School Alfonoso Reyna III, Gallegos Elementary School Autumn Nichole Harrison, Benavides Elementary School A total of 55 RGV spellers will compete for the opportunity to advance to the Scripps National Spelling Bee which will take place on May 25-31 in the Washington, D. C. area.

Employee Health Screenings

The BISD Employee Benefits/Risk Management Department is pleased to announce that the Board of Trustees has approved free biometric health screenings for all full-time insured BISD employees. Screenings are already taking place at campuses and departments throughout the district. Employees are reminded to fast 10 hours prior to their screenings and water is encouraged. It is important to know your numbers, it could save your life. For questions, call 548-8061 or visit www.WellnessIsHotStuff.com. View the current schedule of district screenings.

5 BISD High Schools Approved for Early College

It’s official! Texas Commissioner of Education Michael Williams has announced that five Brownsville ISD high schools, Hanna, Pace, Lopez, Rivera, and Veterans Memorial, have received Early College High School (ECHS) designations for the 2014-2015 school year. The announcement came on Monday, February 24. BISD received the largest number, earning 5 of the 44 new ECHS designations. The district already has one ECHS with the Brownsville Early College High School located at the University of Texas-Brownsville campus. Texas now has a total of 109 ECHS campuses across the state. “We are thrilled with this news. Five new early college high schools will offer opportunities to our Brownsville ISD students like never before. Our entire community will reap the benefits from these local high schools that allow students to earn substantial college hours and a high school diploma at the same time,” said Superintendent Dr. Carl A. Montoya. View the Texas Education Agency media release.

High Schools Artists Advance

A total of 25 BISD high school visual art students qualified to advance to the state Visual Arts Scholastic Event (VASE) competition to be held on Saturday, April 12 in Bryan, Texas. The students’ work excelled at the regional competition in McAllen, Texas on Saturday, February 22. Congratulations to these BISD students and their teachers. Visual arts students continue to “Keep the Arts Alive” in our district. View the regional results by high school campus.

Community Leaders Go Back to School

Brownsville ISD hosted its popular Principal for a Day (PFAD) activity on Friday, February 21. Each BISD campus invited a business or community leader to serve as a guest principal for one entire morning. Guest principals began the day at their respective schools where they shadowed the campus administrator and participated in a variety of school activities. The day concluded with a luncheon where participants shared stories about the morning they spent in the principal’s office. Started in 1992, PFAD has enabled hundreds of local leaders to experience the joys and challenges of school administration. View the 2014 BISD Principals for a Day.

Canales Ready to Rumble!

The State of Texas took on the State of Oklahoma in the 2nd Annual Think Through Math Red River Rumble. Congratulations to Canales Elementary School fifth grade students. They were the 4th highest in Texas to have passed 10 lessons or more with the highest percentage. Canales will compete against students in Conroe ISD, Dallas ISD, Aledo ISD, and Midland ISD in the final round of competition which runs from February 24 to March 3, 2014 for the grand prize. Best of luck to the Canales 5th grade Bulldogs!

Online Insurance Resources

Brownsville ISD provides all full-time employees with group medical insurance with BlueCross BlueShield of Texas (BCBSTX) as the third party administrator. BCBSTX offers employees a multitude of resources including a rewards program for healthy living, online care condition management, a mobile app to locate the nearest in-network doctor, hospital or urgent care facility, and programs for tobacco cessation and weight management. BISD employees are encouraged to take advantage of these services. Login here.

District History on Display

The BISD Museum, located on the first floor of the Central Administration Building (CAB) at 708 Palm Boulevard, showcases the district’s history from its earliest days. Exhibits include the original Putegnat Elementary School bell, sports and band memorabilia and much, much more. The museum is open weekdays from 8 am to 12 noon and 1 to 5 pm. This week, the BISD Museum will award a Valentine’s Day gift basket to one lucky visitor whose name is drawn on Friday. For more information, call Hilda Williams at 698-1752.

College-Going Culture

Brownsville ISD high school seniors are applying to colleges in record numbers using the APPLY TEXAS APPLICATION. The February 7, 2014 report shows high percentages for 7 BISD high schools. Counts for the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA) will not be reported until the end of February. The Brownsville Learning Academy, Lincoln Park School and Brownsville Academic Center are included in the counts. Current student enrollment numbers are used in the calculation. For questions, call Pilar Janis in Guidance and Counseling at 548-8251.

Alford Earns Accolades

The Texas Association for Literacy and Adult Education (TALAE) held its Annual Conference in Corpus Christi on February 6 and announced that Debbie Alford is the 2012-2013 Administrator of the Year for Adult Education Programs in Texas. There are 444 adult education providers listed in Texas, including the TWC-funded co-ops and EL Civics grantees, plus volunteer/community-based providers, church-based programs, etc. BISD’s Adult Continuing Education Program (ACE) is part of the state’s 55 Adult Education Co-ops, which includes 29 that are ISDs or ESC regions, 23 that are with community colleges, and 3 that are community based organizations. ACE provides adult basic educational services for General Educational Development (GED) and English as a Second Language (ESL).The average annual enrollment is 1,400 students. ACE was highlighted for the annual project-based learning activities, career fairs, community partnerships, and for meeting or exceeding all targets mandated by the federal government through the National Reporting System (NRS) for the last three years. This is Ms. Alford’s 4th year at ACE.

Dolphin Dash

Oliveira Middle School will host its first 1 mile/5K Run on Saturday, March 29. Everyone is invited to participate in the school’s Dolphin Dash. View the details.

Pride in Our Athletes

Congratulations to our BISD athletes who participated in the State Winter Games Bowling competition at the Texas Special Olympics held in Austin on January 30 – February 2. View the winners by campus.

Keeping Healthy

In conjunction with The Brownsville Challenge, the BISD Wellness Fitness Center will offer a Strength and Conditioning class on Saturday, February 8 from 8:30 to 9:30 am. The class is perfect for all fitness levels. Call 698-0194 for questions. View the information.

Readers’ Favorites

Four BISD educators and three campuses earned recognition in the 2014 Readers’ Choice Awards sponsored by The Brownsville Herald. Congratulations to Principal Celia de los Santos, Pullam Elementary; Teacher Carlos Garcia, Veterans Memorial High School; Teacher Jesus Morales, Hanna High School; and Coach Gilbert Garces, Garcia Middle School. Readers’ Choice campuses are Veterans Memorial High School, Stillman Middle School, and Hudson Elementary School. Winners were highlighted in the newspaper on Sunday, February 3 and will receive recognition plaques. View the list.

NASA for Girls!

The Keller Elementary Library and the National Aeronautics and Space Administration (NASA) are partners in a new program for 5th grade girls entitled, “NASA Science4Girls and Their Families.” The first meeting is scheduled for Friday, February 7 from 5-7 pm. The program is designed to offer participants an opportunity to celebrate women in science, empower girls in our community to explore the role of science in life and careers, and learn about our amazing universe. The program will feature hands on activities, the STAR Lab, and a mini-book fair. For more information, call Keller Elementary at 547-4400.

Best Play!

Over 1,500 Rio Grande Valley chess enthusiasts turned out for the 2014 Texas Chess Association Region VIII Championship which was hosted by Paredes Elementary on January 25–26 at Veterans Memorial High School. Brownsville ISD schools dominated the championship by placing 1st in each section. The Region VII Championship is featured on the United States Chess Federation (USCF) website and in a KRGV Channel 5 story.

Olympic Fever in the Lopez Cluster

All 7 elementary schools in the Lopez High School Cluster are hosting a series of school and community events which will coincide with the upcoming XXII Olympic Winter Games on February 6 – 27. Entitled “Going for the Gold,” the events are designed to increase student academic performance with activities that are cross-curricular and community supported. The elementary campuses, Aiken, Brite, El Jardin, Garza, Morningside, Palm Grove and Southmost, have created 11-member Olympic Committees that are composed of educators who have planned and developed student activities for each grade level. The H-E-B Store and Brownsville Public Library in the Southmost area are participating as well as nearby churches. Most Lopez elementary campuses will kick off their Olympic activities with an opening ceremony on Thursday, February 6. This Olympic initiative is one component of an overall effort by Lopez Cluster schools this year to provide Learning Opportunities and Various Experiences through Innovative Teaching practices known as LOVE IT! For more information about the “Going for the Gold” initiative, contact Ben Avalos at bavalos@bisd.us or call (956) 698-2120 / 459-7621.

Access to Grades Online

Over 10,000 BISD parents have already signed up to use the district’s online grade service known as Home Access Center (HAC) allowing them to stay informed about their child’s academic progress. A user ID and password can be obtained at a BISD campus with the proper identification and a signed user agreement. Parents are encouraged to contact their child’s school to participate.

Breakfast is Served!

Breakfast will be served at all BISD campuses this morning when students arrrive to school at 10 am.

Business as Usual on Wednesday, January 29

Brownsville ISD schools will follow regular dismissal times today. School buses will run their regular routes after school.

UTSA Comes to Hanna

Hanna High School will welcome the University of Texas at San Antonio Mobile Go Center on Thursday, February 6 from 9 am to 3 pm. A brief kick-off ceremony will be held at 9 am in front of Hanna. The visit is to support BISD’s college - going culture by assisting students and parents in completing the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA). Research indicates that 90% of students who complete a FAFSA go on to college. UTSA wants all BISD students to be college ready, college connected and college completed! View the announcement.

Delayed Start on Wednesday, January 29

Breakfast will be served at all BISD campuses this morning when students arrrive to school at 10 am. Delayed Start on Wednesday, January 29 Due to inclement weather, Brownsville ISD will have a delayed start on Wednesday, January 29, 2014, at 10:00 am. All employees and students are to report to campuses and offices at 10:00 am. Bus students must report to bus stops at these times. • Middle Schools – 8:30 am • Elementary Schools – 9:00 am • High Schools – 9:30 am Note: Campus staff must report to work at 9 am to assist with the arrival of students. All BISD Transportation Department employees are to report by 7:30 am to the department. We apologize for any inconvenience. ----------------------------------------------------------------------------------- Debido al mal clima, BISD tendra un comienzo retrasado el miercoles 29 de enero. Se les pide a todos los empleados y estudiantes reportarse a las escuelas y oficinas a las 10:00 a.m. mas tarde de lo normal. Los estudiantes que necesitan transportacion deben de reportarse al bus stop en los siguientes horarios: • Secundaria (MS) – 8:30 a.m. • Primaria (Elem.) – 9:00 a.m. • Preparatoria (HS) – 9:30 a.m.

Employee Online is 24/7

The new BISD Employee Online feature on the BISD homepage can now be accessed using devices both inside and outside the district network. Employees can view or print their own payroll and benefit information including check stubs 24 hours a day, 7 days a week. Follow these simple steps to use Employee Online or call the Business Solution Help Desk at (956) 698-1254 for assistance.

Peru and Brownsville ISD Connect

A group of Peruvian educators from the regions of San Martin, Ucayali and Lima will visit Brownsville ISD on Wednesday, January 29 and Thursday, January 30. They are participating in the 2014 Texas Study Tour sponsored by the U.S. Agency for International Development and Family Health International. Their one week visit to Texas is divided between Austin and Brownsville. In Brownsville, they will meet district leaders and learn about the planning and implementation framework that is effectively supporting many at-risk students. The Peruvian educators will observe classroom instruction in the early grades, and learn about curriculum, instruction and assessment practices that help to close achievement gaps. Read more about their visit.

Soccer Games Changes

Due to the cold weather, BISD high school soccer games scheduled for Friday, January 24 have been postponed until Saturday, January 25. The games and times are posted below: Lopez Vs. Los Fresnos @ Sams Stadium 12:30 (Girls), 2:30 (Boys) Rivera Vs. Pace @ Sams Stadium 4:30 (Girls), 6:30 (Boys) Hanna Vs. Veterans @ Hanna 12:00 (Girls), 2:00 (Boys) Porter Vs. Harlingen South @ Boggus Stadium 2:30 (Girls), 4:30 (Boys) Call the Athletics Department at 548-8261 for more information.

Hanna Choir to Perform for TMEA Statewide Conference

The Hanna Varsity Men’s Choir has been invited to perform for the 2014 Texas Music Educators Association Convention (TMEA) in San Antonio on Thursday, February 13 at the Henry B. Gonzalez Convention Center. The Hanna Men’s Choir is honored to be the first high school choir from Brownsville ISD as well as the first men’s choir from South Texas to perform for this esteemed group of professional musicians and educators. The Hanna Varsity Men’s Choir was the only high school men’s choir selected to perform at this year’s convention from over 120 recordings submitted. The local community is invited to see the Hanna Varsity Men’s Choir perform the TMEA program, “The Enduring Spirit” on Thursday, February 6, 2014 at 7:30 pm in the Robert B. Buchanan Performing Arts Center at Hanna. Gene Holkup is the director, Jesus G. Morales and Selina H. Charles are assistant directors, and Robert G. C is the accompanist.

Tops in Region

Brownsville ISD middle school band students swept the 2014 Texas Music Educators Association (TMEA) Region 28 All-Region Band auditions on Saturday, January 18. The students earned 152 All-Region Band chairs and 10 of the 16 available 1st chair positions. For the fourth consecutive year, all of BISD’s 11 middle school band programs produced students who earned chairs in the All-Region group and over one half of the schools increased their totals from last year. Congratulations to the middle school students, parents and directors. View the results by campus.

Running for Fun

William Dyson, the Marathon Kids National Program Administrator, will visit Ortiz Elementary School on Thursday, January 23 from 12:35-2:45 pm. Dyson will speak to students and run with them as part of the Marathon Kids Program. Yolanda Cortinas, the Ortiz P.E. Department Chair and 2013 Texas CATCH Champion, introduced the Marathon Kids Program to her students almost 4 years ago. The program is designed to get kids, teachers and families moving through the 26.2 challenge, promote positive nutritional habits to fuel minds and bodies, and provide tools and resources to motivate and support families and communities to reach their health goals. Dyson is in the Rio Grande Valley for the Marathon Kids Kickoff, sponsored by H-E-B and Blue Cross Blue Shield of Texas, which will be held on Saturday, January 25 from 10 am to 12 Noon at Boggus Stadium in Harlingen.