2008 Showcase of Stars Academic Recognition ... - Midlothian ISD

Midlothian Education Foundation Presents:
2008
Showcase of Stars
Academic Recognition Banquet
Celebrating Academic Achievement and Teaching Excellence
June 2, 2008
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Thanks to
Midlothian American National Power
for sponsoring this program booklet.
Photos by Jowdy Photography, photographer Todd N. Kamp
(817) 778-1461 * www.jowdy.com
Program printed by College Street Printing Co.
(972) 938-1971 * www.collegestreetprinting.com
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Welcome
Jamie Wickliffe, MEF President
Recognition of Students and Teachers
Ryan Looney, MHS Senior
Special Performance
Stefan Berthelsen, MHS Valedictorian
Closing Remarks
Dr. J.D. Kennedy, Superintendent of Schools
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Welcome to the fourth annual Showcase of Stars Academic Recognition
Banquet. The MISD Education Foundation (MEF) Board of Directors is pleased
to honor students for their academic achievement, teachers for their commitment
to excellence, and parents for their continued support.
The students honored have worked diligently during their high school
careers to become not just outstanding learners, but also superb citizens in our
community and fine representatives of Midlothian High School.
The honored MISD teachers are representative of the fine quality of educators
in our community. They have provided insight, both in education and in the real
world, that will allow these students to excel in the future.
This event is funded solely by donations made to the non-profit organization
called the MISD Education Foundation.
Foundation Mission Statement
The mission of the Midlothian ISD Education Foundation + is to generate
and distribute resources to the Midlothian Independent School District. These
resources will be used to enrich, maintain, and expand programs needed to meet
the District’s stated mission of excellence in education.
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Midlothian Education Foundation Board of Directors
Clint Almand
Ron Grahm
Trina Morgan
Corine Ramsey
Dan Altman
Clark Hackney
Richard Norman
Tami Tobey
Janice Carey
Dolores McClatchey
Jim Norris
Betty Tryon
Brian Carter
Cheryl McCurley
Maurice Osborn
Andrea Walton
Brenda Folsom
LaRue Miller
Debbie Phillippi
Dave Wyrtzen
Tammy Goldmann
MEF Executive Committee
Jamie Wickliffe, President
Midlothian High School
Dr. Al Hemmle, Principal
Randy Denton, VP of Development
Vicki Massey, VP of Administration
Paul Vinton, Treasurer
Dr. J.D. Kennedy, Secretary
Jana Hathorne, Coordinator
MISD Board of Trustees
Duke Burge, President
Phil Seay, Vice President
Jay Roberts, Secretary
Jim Mentzel
Tom Moore
Wayne Shuffield
Cindy Williams
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David Atherton, Star Student
Marilyn Hopkins, Star Teacher
(David’s 5 th Grade Science/Social Studies Teacher)
Parents: Paul and Debbie Atherton
Future Plans: University of Texas at Austin; Become a Research Scientist or Doctor
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“Mrs. Hopkins always had animals in her
room such as iguanas, frogs, salamanders, birds and other
creatures. Occasionally, she would let them loose to roam
around on the floor. She also had our class do activities
like making a class garden and learning how to take care of
her animals. When she taught Social Studies, we learned
about the Declaration of Independence and other parts of
American History. Her love for both the past and living
things taught me how to appreciate both of them as well.
Thank you, Mrs. Hopkins.”
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Stefan Berthelsen, Star Student
Ellen Hayden, Star Teacher
(Stefan’s Physics Teacher)
Parents: Joel and Wendy Berthelsen
Future Plans: University of Texas at Austin; Major Undecided
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“I have had Ms. Hayden for two years of
physics. She is not only an excellent teacher, but also
someone who made coming to school enjoyable. The Physics
I learned in class I regularly remember in real-life situations.
For example, when I am driving my car I think about the
levels of mechanical energy on a hill and how much speed
I am likely to lose due to friction. What a wonderful life –
thank you, Ms. Hayden.”
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Brennen Cody, Star Student
Annette Hall, Star Teacher
(Brennen’s 6th Grade Reading Teacher)
Parents: Richard and Terry Cody
Future Plans: LeTourneau University; Major in Mechanical Engineering; Become an Engineer or a Missionary
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“Many wondrous feelings fill my soul when I think upon my
sixth grade reading class. All these thoughts are due to my
stupendous Reading teacher, Mrs. Hall. Her
indelible display of knowledge and humor connected to my
inner being, allowing me to fully grasp the enjoyment and
intellect in literature. Thank you, Mrs. Hall, for opening
my eyes anew.”
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Aaron Craig, Star Student
Nena Challenner, Star Teacher
(Aaron’s K/1st Grade Teacher)
Parents: Phil and Debra Craig
Future Plans: Embry-Riddle Aeronautical University; Build Jet Turbines
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“Mrs. Challenner was an amazing
kindergarten and first grade teacher. I never realized how
amazing she was until I was asked to identify the teacher
who had a special influence in your life. The only teacher in
which I have vivid memories was Mrs. Challenner. She was
the basis of education for the years to come in my school life
and as I have accomplished the honorary status of being in
the top five percent of my class. Some distinct memories
of her class are retaining a mammal, arachnid, or reptile in
the classroom; this "pet of the month" was the responsibility
of the class. Overall, she deserves my greatest respect for
having been an A+ teacher and a mentor helping transition
a change in my life from home into education for the years
to come.”
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Taylor Daugherty, Star Student
Andra Chapman, Star Teacher
(Taylor’s 10th Grade English Teacher)
Parents: Michael and Paula Daugherty
Future Plans: Lubbock Christian University; Become a Middle School Teacher
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“Mrs. Chapman has been my favorite teacher
since the 10th grade. I had never liked English nor was I
good at it. The way she taught the books we read made
them come alive. To Kill A Mockingbird is now one of
my favorite books. She also helped me to understand the
English concepts and mechanics. I now understand how to
punctuate much better after Mrs. Chapman's class. She is
my favorite teacher.”
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Garin Elwell, Star Student
Peggy Davidson, Star Teacher
(Garin’s 5th Grade Language Arts Teacher)
Parents: Steve and Lynette Elwell
Future Plans: Texas A&M University; Major in Engineering
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“ On my first day of 5th grade, I was nervous because it was
my first day in a public school. From kindergarten through
4th grade, I attended a private school in Cedar Hill and
I was worried it would be a lot different. All of my fears
vanished when I met my teachers who were all awesome,
especially Mrs. Davidson. One of the first
assignments that she gave us was to write a letter to another
person in our class. I drew Mrs. Davidson’s name and she
amazingly drew my name. I found out that she has two
cats named Waffles and Oreo and lives five houses down
from me. We have stayed in touch over the years. It is all
because she made me feel welcome and comfortable on my
first day in public schools.”
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Arturo Espinoza, Star Student
Jay Johnson, Star Teacher
(Arturo’s 10th Grade World History Teacher)
Parents: Arturo and Rosanna Espinoza
Future Plans: Baylor University; Major in Pre-Med/Biology; Become a Cardiologist
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y
,
y,
“Mr. Johnson was always approachable and was
always able to answer my questions. In addition to being a
good teacher, he was enjoyable to talk to about stuff in the
news and he would always have something interesting to
say. Coach Johnson could always crack jokes too, and he and
I could go back and forth in a battle of wits. I always won.”
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Lauren Freeman, Star Student
Laura Truett, Star Teacher
(Lauren’s Drill Team Director)
Parents: Doyle and Shalla Freeman
Future Plans: Texas Tech University; Major in Sociology
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“During the past six years, Mrs. Truett has been
more than just a drill team director to me. She’s been like a
second mom. Aside from helping me improve my dance skills, she
has been there to see that I was growing as an individual. She has
taught me how to love and respect myself first so that I can love
and respect others. Because of her I am more confident in who I
am and what I want out of life. She taught me how to be a young
lady, how to be a friend, and how to stand up for my beliefs. She’s
given me the leadership skills I have now that I will use in my life.
The thought of graduating and not being in Midlothian every day
to hear her advice to the team and to hear her tell jokes is going to
be really hard. Mrs. Truett means a lot to me, and I know she is
the one teacher in my life whom I will never forget.”
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Andrew Hill, Star Student
Chris Cass, Star Teacher
(Andrew’s Band Teacher)
Parents: Mark and Tammy Hill
Future Plans: Texas Tech University; History Major
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“Mr. Cass always treated me as an equal, rather than
another annoying student, as some teachers may tend to do.
He also would take time to make me a better musician, even
if he had other responsibilities at hand. He wants every one
of his students to be the best they can be. I have undying
respect and gratitude for the many ways he has helped me
this year. Whether it was phenomenally improving my
musicianship or teaching me to stick to my guns, he has
proved to be the greatest teacher I have ever had. He’s a
good friend, as well.”
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Lauren Johnson, Star Student
Kristi Guest, Star Teacher
(Lauren’s Student Council & Leadership Teacher)
Parents: John and Kelly Johnson
Future Plans: Oklahoma City University; Major in Dance Performance
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“Mrs. Guest has been my Student Council sponsor
since my sophomore year. Over the past three years,
I have learned so much by the positive example she
displays. I admire how she gracefully handles adversity with
perseverance and an optimistic outlook. She has inspired
my life with her dedication, sincerity, selflessness, and kind
heart. Her uplifting spirit is contagious. Thank you,
Mrs. Guest, for all your support and for the opportunity
to lead as president of student council. I have had a great
senior year!”
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Brett Land, Star Student
Lorilyn Worley, Star Teacher
(Brett’s Psychology Teacher)
Parents: David and Brenda Land
Future Plans: University of Texas at Austin; Major in Government/Pre-Law
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“Mrs. Worley is my Psychology teacher. Her class
is one of the very few that I have actually looked forward to
attending. I have never had a question go unanswered, and
she has taught me to approach everything with optimism.
She teaches in a way that is conducive to learning, in that
she allows for learning outside of monotonous bookwork.
Mrs. Worley is a great teacher.”
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Nathan Larson, Star Student
John Seale, Star Teacher
(Nathan’s Biology Teacher)
Parents: Delbert and Geralyn Larson
Future Plans: Baylor University; Become a Doctor
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“Mr. Seale always went out of his way to make sure
I succeeded in school. Whether or not it was Biology or an
obscure subject, he allowed me to work towards my goals
and helped me achieve them. Mr. Seale taught me how to
study Biology and medicine efficiently, which is unique as
Biology is different than the other sciences. He is always
there for me when I am aiming for my goals.”
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Arin Lunario, Star Student
Donna Smith, Star Teacher
(Arin’s Art Teacher)
Parents: Jose and Jinky Azarcon
Future Plans: Texas A&M University; Major in Nuclear Engineering
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“Mrs. Smith taught me how to express myself
artistically, which is not one of my strong points. Whenever
I was about to give up on a piece, she helped me out and
it turned out, as always, fantastic. She has also just been
one of the best teachers I ever had. She is kind, funny and
outgoing. She also has a great eye for art.”
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Katie Money, Star Student
John Seale, Star Teacher
(Katie’s Biology Teacher)
Parents: Clay and Terrie Money
Future Plans: Texas A&M University–Commerce; Become a Math/Biology Teacher, Environmental Scientist,
or Physical Therapist
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“ I have had the privilege of having Mr. Seale
two years during my education. I had him in freshman
Pre-AP Biology and now in Biology II AP. He is such a
great teacher because he is excited about being there every
day to teach his students something new. Mr. Seale works
so hard to make us enjoy Biology by making it interesting.
He truly loves his work and enjoys sharing his knowledge
with us. I have enjoyed these past two years with Mr. Seale.”
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James Nelson, Star Student
Leigh Dopson, Star Teacher
(James’ Chemistry Teacher)
Parents: Todd and Rebecca Nelson
Future Plans: Major in Chemical Engineering
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“Mrs. Dopson taught Chemistry my sophomore
year and my junior year. I enjoyed the class during the
sophomore year, which led me to take AP Chemistry my
junior year. In AP Chemistry, Mrs. Dopson and I got along
very well. I did well in her class and she was always someone
that I could talk to and relate to. I based my major on this
class. I have been her aide during my senior year, and I
think we will still be friends long after I graduate.”
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Andrew Rowell, Star Student
Brady Gibson, Star Teacher
(Andrew’s U.S. History Teacher)
Parents: Ward and Cathy Rowell
Future Plans: Texas A&M University; Major in Political Science and Minor in Journalism
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“I chose Coach Gibson as my star teacher because
he actually agreed to wield a lightsaber in the picture. But,
that perfectly represents why he is such an amazing teacher.
I always looked forward to Coach Gibson’s class. His sense
of humor is so like mine, and his affinity for Star Wars is a
major plus. His teaching style is so dead-on, that I learned
so much and still managed to nearly fail. I had a great time
learning about...the subject Coach Gibson taught.”
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Jordan Schwartz, Star Student
Patti Spillers, Star Teacher
(Jordan’s Pre-Calculus and Calculus Teacher)
Parents: Stacy and Tianta Schwartz
Future Plans: Texas A&M University; Major in Aerospace Engineering
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“ I have had Ms. Spillers for the past three years.
I had her for Pre-Cal, Calculus and Calculus AP. She has
challenged me to become a better math student. Although
I don’t always like how hard she pushes me, in the end it
has shaped me into a great math student. Thank you
Ms. Spillers.”
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Rebecca Jean Waddill, Star Student
Laura Truett, Star Teacher
(Rebecca’s Drill Team Director)
Parents: John and Jean Waddill
Future Plans: Baylor University; Major Undecided
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“Mrs. Truett has influenced my life in such a
positive way over the past six years. She has taught me how
to dance in Cub Dancers and Pantherettes, but she has also
taught me how to respect myself and act like a young lady
in everyday life. I have shared so many memorable
experiences with her that she has become like a second mom
to me. I feel like I can go to her with anything and trust
her with everything. Even though I am going to be gone
next year, I will take everything I learned with me and
she will always be in my heart. I love you Mrs. Truett!”
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Lauren Wessa, Star Student
Mary Ann Pinkston, Star Teacher
(Lauren’s Pre-Calculus Teacher)
Parents: Bob and Janice Wessa
Future Plans: Louisiana State University; Major in Biology/Pre-Med
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“Mrs. Pinkston is one of my all-time favorite
teachers. The first day of school she was intimidating, but
she quickly became one of the funniest teachers I‘ve ever
had. She was a great teacher and always made sure we
understood what we were learning. Everyone respects Mrs.
Pinkston and I looked forward to her class every day. She
not only taught me Pre-Cal, but lessons about life as well.”
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Rebecca Wickersham, Star Student
Anne Rodgers, Star Teacher
(Rebecca’s 4th Grade Reading Teacher)
Parents: Skip and Terri Wickersham
Future Plans: University of North Texas; Major in Counseling
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“ As my fourth grade Reading teacher, Mrs. Rodgers
helped ignite my love of books, especially those by
C.S. Lewis. She taught me how to plan and prepare for
assignments and how to become organized. She spent extra
time with me to improve my writing skills. Even after
fourth grade, she offered her time and knowledge as I
sought her advice. I am thankful for the life-long skills
she has taught me, and I am honored to call her my Aunt.”
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Ryan Looney, Star Emcee
Patti Spillers, Star Teacher
(Ryan’s Pre-Calculus Teacher)
Parents: Warren and Julie Looney
Future Plans: Texas Tech University; Major in Communications
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“After suffering a critical neck injury my junior year, I
missed a lot of school. Mrs. Spillers was always
supportive and helped me get back on track and achieve in
Pre-Cal. She spent much personal time with me, writing
for me when I needed it, and making sure that I understood
what I was doing. She has always been there for me in
school and has become like a second mother, influencing my
life not only from an academic standpoint, but an emotional
one as well.”
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MEF Donors
ARAMARK
Ash Grove Texas, LP
B & B Athletic Supply
B B Byrum Ranch
Amy Ballard
Kristi Beard
Lana Beckwith
Peggy Bentley
Sharon Bieber
Suzanne Brantley
Buford-Thompson Co.
Randy & Robin Bullock
Judy Caldwell
Cindy Carlisle
Courtney Carpenter
Phill & Nena Challenner
Treva Chambers
Bryan & Karen Childers
Chuck Fairbanks Chevrolet, Inc.
Coldwell Banker Americana Realtors
Stephanie Coody
Jane Crawford
Carolyn Cullum
Jennie Daniell
Jennifer Depoy
Kevin Dodson
Rachel Dodson
Larry & Sherry Doran
Andra Dudley
Ennis, Inc.
Karen Esberger
Ardelle Fadler
Bennie Farias
Christye Farrell
FinishMaster
First Financial Bank
Tonya Fisher
Gina Florence
Jeanie Foster
Stacy Germany
Kelly Giacomozzi
Kelly Golden
Justin Griffith
Austin Guest
Richard & Iris Harp
Tammy Harris
Peter & Sheri Hartgraves
C.J. & Jana Hathorne
Brenda Hayes
Jennifer Laurence
Law Offices of Robert E. Luna, P.C.
Jeff & Lori Lehman
Paula Liles
Linebarger Goggan Blair & Sampson,
LLP
Don & Brenda Lott
Amy Lowe
Tami Lowman
Kenneth & Helen Lundberg
Major Saver Holdings, Inc.
Clyde & Dolores McClatchey
Kim Melton
Methodist Health System
Patricia Middlebrooks
Midlothian Chamber of Commerce
Midlothian Energy LP
Midlothian Insurance Agency
MidTexas International Center, Inc.
Tammie Moore
Tom & Cyndi Moore
Music T’s
Julie Negrete
Joni Nelson
Richard & Pam Norman
Claire Northcut
Arturo Ortega
Sherry Pardue
Cynthia Payne
Keith & Gail Haynes
Caleen Heard
Cortni Henke
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MEF Donors
Hilco Electric Cooperative, Inc.
Sarah Hissin
Keith & Carol Hitt
HKS Architects, Inc.
Holcim
Shirley Horsley
Tracey Hudson
In Memory of Jenny Lehman
Leslie Inman
Integrated Builders, Inc.
Isbell Engineering Group, Inc.
Lori Jackson
Melissa Johnson
Larry & Nancy Keiser
J.D. & Pam Kennedy
Michael & Tammie Kidd
Kimbrough Fire Extinguisher Co, Inc.
Tim & Lisa Knight
Leslie Kyle
Martha Lackey
Angie Pettijohn
Rick Pinson
Karen Poland
Ponder Company, Inc.
William Probst
RBC Dain Rauscher
Bill & Mary Redding
Windy Reese
Glenna Reisner
Robert & Janice Ebers
Roberts Motor Co
Janet Rogers
Satterfield & Pontikes
Construction, Inc
Chaundra Searles
Wayne & Becky Shuffield
James & Marilyn Smith
Kevin & Archilene
Marilyn Souders
Southwest Securities Incorporated
Paige Spitler
Debra Stewart
Vicki Storm
Jan Stovall
The Staubach Company
Shannon Thompson
Cassandra Tilory
Laura Truett
Donna Tucker
TXI
Van Amburgh Valuation Associates,
Inc.
Michael & Beth Van Amburgh
Dana Vaughn
VLK Architects, Inc.
John & Jean Waddill
Cherie Wagoner
Walsh, Anderson, Brown,
Schulze & Aldridge
Kristi Watkins
Gerald & Jamie Wickliffe
Judith Williams
Ann Witherspoon
Deanna Zell
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Notes
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Notes
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Notes
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