Bridge City ISD Winter-Spring 2023-24

BRIDGE CITY HIGH SCHOOL

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THANK YOU, BCISD ANCHOR SPONSORS!

Established in 2021, to benefit the students of Bridge City ISD, this 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization is governed by a volunteer board of directors that includes local business, industry, and community leaders. The Foundation will provide funds beyond the normal operating budget for educational programs and activities for students and staff. The mission of the Bridge City ISD Education Foundation is to generate funding that will enrich teaching, inspire learn ing, develop leadership, and enhance opportunities for BCISD students that would not otherwise be available. The Foundation supports BCISD in providing an enhanced learning environ ment through a community united and committed to the public education of BCISD students. To date, the Foundation has donated $30,000 in grant funding to BCISD teachers for products and programs that meet the mis sion of the Foundation. We are grateful to the Cardinal Centu rions, the one hundred people whose generosity brought the Foundation to life, and to the individuals and companies who support our fundraising activities. For more information on how you can partner with the Bridge City ISD Education Foundation, please contact Patty Collins at bcisdeducationfoundation21@gmail.com. Follow us @ www.bcisdeducationfoundation.org or on Facebook @BridgeCityISDEducationFoundation

PREGAME

Welcome to the Nest. I am Josh Smalley, the new Athletic Director and Head Football Coach at Bridge City ISD. It has been my honor to take the helm at Bridge City ISD. I am a 1994 graduate of Bridge City ISD, and I am extremely proud to call myself a Cardinal. While attending BCISD, I participated in football, basketball, and baseball. As an assistant coach at Bridge City, I coached various sports including powerlifting, softball, track, football, and baseball. I desire to see every program in the athletic department be successful. Our goal is to produce young men and women who represent our school in a positive light and bring pride to the community. As a seasoned leader in the athletic realm, I have dedicated 28 years to coaching and mentoring athletes at various levels. My coaching philosophy is rooted in a holistic approach that goes beyond the scoreboard, emphasizing character development, teamwork, and personal growth. This commitment to nurturing well-rounded young adults has led to numerous successes on the playing field and hopefully left a lasting impact off the field. My goal is for our coaching team to elevate Bridge City ISD’s athletic program to new heights. With strategic planning and a dedication to providing student athletes with the resources they need to succeed academically and athletically, we will redefine and implement the standards of excellence in the school’s sports program. Our school and athletic programs aspire to be well-known for our scoring successes, but mostly for our character, and a positive and inclusive team culture. Believing in the power of collaboration, respect, and hard work, we want to inspire our athletes to strive for greatness on and off the field. Their ability to build a sense of community within the athletic department is certain to resonate with the student-athletes and the entire Bridge City community. The five core values that will be the pillars that set the foundation of our programs are: BUILT CARDINAL TOUGH

BRIDGE CITY ISD BOARD OF TRUSTEES TOP ROW: Mike Johnson , Member Thad Hill , Member Mark Anderson , Member Jerry McInnis , Assistant Secretary Dr. Mike Kelly , Superintendent

BOTTOM ROW: Judy Cole , Secretary Paul Zoch , Vice President Rebecca Rutledge , President

1. Toughness 2. Discipline 3. Sacrifice 4. Commitment 5. Pride I am thrilled to come back home to the community that built me, and I look forward to witnessing the positive impact our coaching staff will undoubtedly have on the sports program. Go Big Red, Coach Josh Smalley Athletic Director, Head Football Coach

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PREGAME

It is an honor to be Superintendent of Schools in a school district where academic excellence is expected and extracurricular programs flourish, while students are held accountable and given the opportunity to be well-educated. This year is my 24th year in education and my fourth school year in Bridge City ISD. I am excited about the opportunities we will have over the next several years to build programs and facilities to meet the growth of our district and the needs of our students. PARENTS & COMMUNITY MEMBERS,

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VYPE STAFF PUBLISHER VYPE MEDIA, LLC CEO Derek Dusek CHIEF CONTENT OFFICER Matt Malatesta CREATIVE DIRECTOR Daniel Tiller BRIDGE CITY ISD PUBLICATION + VYPE LOGO DESIGNER Meadowlark Creative • Carrie@ArtByMeadowlark.com PHOTO EDITOR Bradley Collier CONTRIBUTING PHOTOGRAPHERS Bradley Collier STAFF WRITER Matthew Ogle DIGITAL EDITOR Jackson DiPasquale CAMPUS REPRESENTATIVE Diana Alvarado

Bridge City ISD is an innovative educational system within a family-oriented community with a small town atmosphere. As a school district, we pride ourselves on creating a family environment for our students and staff. The Bridge City ISD school board, administration, faculty, and staff are dedicated to our mission. The commitment to the 3,200 students who grace our hallways remains constant: To provide a comprehensive and well-balanced instructional program in a safe learning environment to ensure the development of caring, responsible, and productive graduates capable of contributing in a global society. We are passionate about student success and it is my hope that our commitment to students is evident in all we do. We provide an excellent academic and extracurricular environment that demands our students work hard to become the best they can be. We are investing a great deal in technology, career and technical education (CTE), and other resources to help ensure your child has an opportunity to reach their fullest potential. While we take pride in quality education and individualized educational opportunities, Bridge City ISD offers a variety of activities and educational programs to enhance the overall educational experience. I am excited to see what the future holds for our school district. I’d like to thank our community for supporting our schools through various hardworking and generous booster clubs that provide our students with everything they need to be successful. I invite you to become a part of our incredible community and school district. This is a great place to raise a family and educate your children. I invite you to follow our campus and district Facebook pages as we send school updates and highlight the many successes of the students of Bridge City ISD. It’s always a great day to be a Cardinal!

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Warm Regards, Dr. Mike Kelly Superintendent of Schools

BRIDGE CITY HIGH SCHOOL

BRIDGECITYISD.NET

ON THE COVER Photo by BRADLEY COLLIER

SOCIAL BCHS

Code Red: The Bridge City Cardinals are Putting the Competition on Notice

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Bridge City Cardinals Putting Competition on Notice CODE

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PHOTO feature

THE CITY Bridge City is ready for the Spring semester as the Cardinals start migrating towards district titles and the postseason. Whether it is on the soccer pitch and the baseball and softball diamonds or the golf courses and tennis courts, Bridge City’s best will

represent the red and black with pride. Don’t forget the men and women of the oval … Bridge City is fast on the track. Stay tuned as these birds of a feather flock together for personal bests and hoisting some hardware this Spring. Stay tuned.

Brayton Tregre

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Landon Reeves

Kaden Trevino

Reece Molina

Aidyn Mulhollan

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Nate Stafford

Tyler Fults

Heidi Broussard

Kaitlyn Gremillion

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Emma Buysse

Cambree LaComb

Natalie Chavez

Lexi Smith

Aden Lapeyrolerie

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Caitlyn Yost

Blaze King

Holly Silveira

Nicole Sasser

Lexi Nugier

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Stephen Stone

Ayden Richardson

Victor Ortiz

Laurie Barg & Lynsie Barg

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POWER LIFTING

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FAITH OVER FEAR Bearden’s Strength Knows No Limits

\\ By Matthew Ogle

Hallie Bearden

the strength, opportunities, coaches and people that helped me achieve this dream, came from him.” Overcoming one’s opponents is difficult enough as it is. However, Bearden has faced more challenges than many will ever have in their lifetime. But it was her faith that will ultimately take her to new heights. “This year definitely won’t be a breeze, especially after winning it last year,” she said. “Right after State, I actually got really sick with a rare disease and I lost everything. So much so, that I struggled to even squat the bar. “But I remember going to a church service – it was May 19th and I’ll never forget the day. This lady was giving a sermon and she said ‘you’re going to come back stronger than you were before’. I can say as I prepared for the first meet, that I was in fact stronger because of what God had done for me. After coming back from that, I’ve decided to move up weight classes, and hopefully I can accomplish a repeat this season.” With everything she has been through and come back from, there is little doubt that Bearden is destined for greatness.

She didn’t just stop at being strong, though. Bearden wanted to be the strongest. Bridge City’s star would go on to win the Class 4A-II State Title last Spring in the 114-pound weight class, after lifting a combined weight of 820 pounds in the tournament’s three events. What’s kept me going has been the thrill of testing my limits. “It really did mean the world to me, especially knowing all that I had to overcome,” said Bearden. “It’s so intimidating to think that in my sophomore year – my first time going to State – I would go on to win it. I knew it was a possibility, but seeing it happen felt like a dream. “I knew that if anybody was going to believe in me, I had to first believe in myself. Next, I knew that God had equipped me for the situation. All “ ”

WHEN SEEING THE PHYSICAL STATURE OF HALLIE BEARDEN, ONE MIGHT ASSUME THAT SHE’S A CHEERLEADER, A VOLLEYBALL PLAYER, OR PERHAPS A TRACK ATHLETE. However, there’s so much more to this Bridge City junior than meets the eye. Bearden happens to be one of the most elite powerlifters in the state for her weight class. Funny enough, she embarked on this journey out of the simple matter of sibling rivalry. “It actually began with my brothers, which is still an ongoing argument over who’s stronger,” she laughed. “I remember in the sixth grade I so desperately wanted to be stronger, especially after seeing my twin lift weights. So, I joined the strength and conditioning camp, started deadlifting, benching and squatting, and I fell in love with it. “What’s kept me going has been the thrill of testing my limits. In powerlifting, it’s not just about the next weight. Sometimes it’s breaking a mental block or maybe you get sick and lose all your progress. It’s about how you can overcome the situation and how you can give God the credit throughout all of it.”

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POWER LIFTING

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Hamerly’s Group Well-Prepared for State Contention BATTLE-TESTED

2023-24 Bridge City Girls Power Lifting

2023-24 Bridge City Boys PowerLifting

It helps that we have the kids who are willing to put in the work. We’re one big family and everybody wants to come and be a part of it. The physical battle that they go through in the weight room prepares them for the world … the mental battle that they will ultimately have to overcome at points in their lives. “ COACHES

CORNER LIFTERS WATCH TO Hallie Bearden Colton Gross Presley Lackey Aden Lapeyrolerie

Nicholas Lejeune

Avery Weidner

” ~Rachel Hamerly BRIDGE CITY POWER LIFTING BRIDGE CITY HIGH SCHOOL

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POWERLIFTING

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Jeslyn Guidroz

Colten Gross

Nicholas Lejeune

Avery Weidner

Raegan Graves

Gracie Jacobs

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BOYS SOCCER

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Bridge City Leans on Toughness TRUE GRIT

2023-24 Bridge City Boys Soccer

The strength of the program is our toughness and next-man-up mentality. We have battled injuries early this season and the guys never make excuses and are always ready to compete. We intentionally scheduled tough scrimmages and three high-caliber tournaments to get us ready to compete in our district, which has stout competition. “ COACHES

CORNER PLAYERS WATCH TO Hudson Campbell Jagger Carlin

Valentin Chavez

Victor Hernandez

” ~Michael Landry BRIDGE CITY BOYS SOCCER BRIDGE CITY HIGH SCHOOL

Nate Stafford

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BOYS SOCCER

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Austin Bellanger

AG Gutierrez

Peyton Doucet

Valentin Chavez

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GIRLS SOCCER

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BIRDS OF A Cardinal Girls Soccer has a Brand New Mentality FEATHER

2023-24 Bridge City Girls Soccer

The cohesion of these young ladies is going to be the fabric of the team. The communication on the field was top notch from day one, but the offseason suffering as a team has power-started the dependency on one another and helped them appreciate the importance of the word ‘team’. “ COACHES

CORNER PLAYERS WATCH TO Charla Branham Natalie Chavez

Raema Lyda

Abbie McDonald

Holly Silveira

” ~Daniel Dimas BRIDGE CITY GIRLS SOCCER BRIDGE CITY HIGH SCHOOL

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GIRLS SOCCER

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Holly Silveira

Raema Lyda

Tyana Le

Jessica Nguyen

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GOLF

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Bridge City Golf Looks to Dominate the District UPSWING ON THE

2023-24 Bridge City Golf

COACHES involved, which works to our advantage. Other schools don’t seem to have the numbers that I do, and I’m very appreciative of that. Because of that, everyone can step up and be a contributor to the team. “ Our goal, as always, is to finish as the district champs. I have a lot of girls and guys

PLAYERS WATCH TO

Luke Campbell

Ashley Hale CORNER Reece Molina

Brayton Tregre

” ~Ray Weaver BRIDGE CITY GOLF BRIDGE CITY HIGH SCHOOL

Coach Ray Weaver

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GOLF

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Ashley Hale

Braydon Denison

Alexis Rich

Kevin Cullums

Kamryn Lumpkin

Luke Campbell

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WELDING

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\\ By Natasha Ray Mastering the Art and Science of Metalwork SUCCESS A SPARK OF

Junior Zach Dommert, in his third year of welding, highlighted the students’ high demand for the projects they’ve undertaken. Among their top-selling items, firepits garnered significant attention. Following a Facebook post showcasing their creations, the class received nearly 50 orders. As the demand for skilled welders rises, the Welding class at Bridge City High School equips students with valuable skills, preparing them for further education and promising careers in the flourishing field of metalworking. With an unwavering commitment to excellence, this class isn’t just shaping metal; it’s shaping futures.

LED BY SEASONED INSTRUCTORS, BRIDGE CITY HIGH SCHOOL WELDING IMMERSES STUDENTS IN THE ART AND SCIENCE OF METALWORK. FROM INTRICATE DESIGNS TO MASTERING WELDING TECHNIQUES, THE CURRICULUM SEAMLESSLY BLENDS THEORY WITH HANDS-ON APPLICATION. The class’s success extends beyond the workshop, sparking a profound passion among students. Many students discover newfound interests in fabrication, welding, and metalwork, unveiling talents previously unknown. Emphasizing teamwork and problem-solving, the class fosters a supportive and engaging learning environment through collaborative projects. “It’s a great program, and I feel like it’s very educational for the future. I like being free and not just stuck in a classroom,” says Blaze King, a junior welding student with three years of experience.

FOR MORE PHOTOS, VISIT US ON FACEBOK: Bridge City ISD CTE

BCHS Welding Class

Blaze King

Ethan Peet

Zack Dommert

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SOFTBALL

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Kentucky-Signee is Laser Focused on Mound, Classroom LOCKED-IN

\\ By Matt Malatesta

CARSON FALL HAS A SOFT SPOT IN HER HEART FOR BRIDGE CITY HIGH SCHOOL. The 5-foot-9 ace is as focused as they come and looks like she is in total control on the mound. But … “When I came here as a freshman, pitching was not my favorite thing,” she recalls. “In fact, I didn’t like softball that much. Playing for Bridge City helped me fall in love with the sport again. On a Tuesday and Friday night, this place has a special vibe for softball. The community support, my coaches and my teammates have made this place so special for me.” While she has unfinished business for the Cardinals as they push for that coveted State Title, Fall’s future is in Bluegrass Country. “Everyone says when you go on an official visit that one college will feel like home,” she said. “Kentucky was it for me. I felt like I belonged there, and I knew it was where I wanted to be.” All of the hard work and sacrifices over the past decade all culminated in signing with a Division I SEC program. “When I was little, I would complain and feel like I was missing out on so much with my friends. Looking back, I wouldn’t change it. Especially now that I have this opportunity in front of me. I’m living out my dream.” Her mom got her into the sport, and she was drawn to the mound from an early age. “Pitching just keeps you involved in every, single play,” she said. “There is never a dull moment because there is so much that goes into it. Yes, there is a lot of strategy that goes into pitching but all I’m thinking about every pitch is competing. I can be pretty focused during the game. I don’t talk to anyone before and game … I’m just locked in.” She is also locked in inside the classroom. Kentucky was it for me. I felt like I belonged there, and I knew it was where I wanted to be. “Academics have always been important to me,” she said. “I’ve always worked to be at the top of my class. Being focused on my grades makes me really able to relax on the softball field for some reason. It’s where I have fun. “I know people around school may think I’m pretty closed off and in my own world sometimes, but I’m really a nice person,” she laughed. A star on the softball field and a stud in the classroom, what else does the senior have time for? “I’m the Student Council Vice President,” she said. “I love to be involved in the planning process of all the fun things we have going on here at Bridge City. I’m also into CrossFit and watching Suits on Netflix when I have free time.” The Bridge City “it girl” has placed high expectations squarely on her shoulders and she is living up to the hype. “ ”

Carson Fall

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SOFTBALL

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Bradley Takes the Reins of Bridge City Softball NEW ERA

2023-24 Bridge City Softball

We’re really working on building a culture where we focus on our teammates and have pride in where we are from. When you show up to a field, you want people to know who you are. This team has already bought in. They want it and they work hard so when we step on the field, there’s no doubt we’re going to go 100-percent. “ ” ~Kylie Bradley BRIDGE CITY SOFTBALL COACHES BRIDGE CITY HIGH SCHOOL

CORNER PLAYERS WATCH TO Anna Autrey (Sr. Utility) Carson Fall (Sr. P) Haley Munoz (Sr. C)

Lexi Nugier (Sr. SS)

Coach Kylie Bradley

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Makenna Knight

Kyleigh Hamilton

Nicole Sasser

Haley Muñoz

Brooklyn Droddy

Anna Autrey

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BASEBALL

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Senior-Led Cards on Hunt for District Title, Playoff Run PLAY BALL!

2023-24 Bridge City Baseball

COACHES

CORNER PLAYERS WATCH TO John Van Huis (Sr. OF) Aidyn Mulhollan (Sr. IF/P) Landon Reeves (Sr. P)

“

I think we’re a 100-percent player-led team, with the expectation that we’ll have a high level of discipline and accountability within our program. This is my 16th year here and I don’t even have to talk about a lot of our procedures, because our seniors know what to do. It’s the best time of year for us … the energy is up and the atmosphere is great. We’re ready to have some fun.

” ~Chad Landry BRIDGE CITY BASEBALL BRIDGE CITY HIGH SCHOOL

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BASEBALL

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Austin Frederick

Hunter Ford

Dax Latiolais

Connor Riojas

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BASEBALL

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John Van Huis

BALLER by TRADE

Van Huis Carrying on the Bridge City Brand

\\ By Matthew Ogle

“This will be another year of Bridge City baseball,” he said. “We’re going to have a lot of young guys that people won’t necessarily be looking for right at the start. They’re going to step up. I hope to lead by example and go all state for my final year in the program. Of course, a deep playoff run would be nice too. It’s going to be a really great year for us.” As one might expect, the Cardinals’ captain will thrive on more than just the love of the game when he takes to the field this Spring. “Bridge City has a somewhat small community feel so everyone knows one another and rallies around each other,” Van Huis said. “Baseball is kind of the brand of Bridge City, so every Friday night it’s always packed. That kind of support is awesome to see as a player and it helps to fire us up.” The Cards finished second in a tough district a year ago (9-3) before reaching the second round of the postseason. Could this be the year that Van Huis and company turn that up a notch?

“It’s a Division-I school, so it’s big-boy baseball. I’ve always wanted to compete at the highest level possible,” said Van Huis. “It’s a beautiful campus right on the water on top of that, which is always a plus. It will be a good stepping-stone of where I want to be.” I hope to lead by example and go all state for my final year in the program.

BASEBALL IS ARGUABLY THE LIFEBLOOD OF BRIDGE CITY. Therefore, it goes without saying that the competitors within the program come from a

special kind of stock. Enter John Van Huis.

“ ”

The senior centerfielder for the Cardinals is a Bridge City-lifer, crafting his game since day one to become one of the undisputed leaders of the program. “I started at an early age, playing t-ball,” he said. “It was supposed to just be something fun and it turned into something that built my hard work-ethic. I actually wasn’t very good when I was younger, but my Dad and I worked through it and eventually it grew into where I’m at now. The game has taught me several lessons over the years, and it’s played a big part in shaping me.” That work ethic will be taking Van Huis south next Fall, as he will continue his baseball career at Texas A&M University-Corpus Christi.

Not shocking that a Bridge City native wants to stay somewhere near the Gulf. Before he becomes an Islander, however, Van Huis has high expectations for both himself and his teammates on the diamond.

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GIRLS TRACK + FIELD

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Bridge City Girls T&F on Path to District Title The ROAD to GLORY

2023-24 Bridge City Girls Track & Field

It’s going to be a great year. We have a bunch of kids coming back, including three seniors who are going to provide some leadership to the younger ones entering the program. There are also some freshmen who can surprise the opposition this year. We’re for sure going to seek out a district title. “ CORNER

ATHLETES WATCH TO Nicole Sasser

Holly Silveira

Jensyn Yeaman

” ~Jamie DeShazo BRIDGE CITY GIRLS TRACK & FIELD

COACHES

Whitney Cunningham

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BOYS TRACK + FIELD

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THE WILL TO Towery Enters Year One with Bridge City Track COMPETE

2023-24 Bridge City Boys Distance

2023-24 Bridge City Boys Throwing

I think the biggest thing for track athletes is being able to handle the pressure of competing when you’re going up against somebody one-on-one. The track doesn’t lie. Obviously, the guy that comes across the line is the one who wins. So, I think that kind of competition, and not being scared to compete, brings out the best in these young men. “ ” ~Chris Towery BRIDGE CITY BOYS TRACK & FIELD COACHES BRIDGE CITY HIGH SCHOOL

CORNER ATHLETES WATCH TO Merik Aras Victor Hernandez Blaze King

Ayden Richardson

Victor Hernandez

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Bailey McCauley

2023-24 Bridge City Boys Relay

Ava Anderson

Cody Fuselier

Ethan Peet

Kailey Britten

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feature TENNIS Cards Tennis on a Mission for State Contention BACK AT IT

2023-24 Bridge City Boys Tennis

2023-24 Bridge City Girls Tennis

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TENNIS

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AG Gutierrez

Presley Decote

Evan Tran

Angela Vargas

Nolan Tran

Erin Thibodeaux

Our greatest strength is the considerable depth we have from one through eight, on both the girls’ and guys’ team. Having that much talent from top to bottom brings a lot of success. Both teams made it to Regionals last year, so we’re looking to take that a step further. “ CORNER

Max Pachar

PLAYERS WATCH TO Laurie Barg

” ~Randall Robertson BRIDGE CITY GIRLS TENNIS

Lynsie Barg

Gavin Hartje

Evan Tran

COACHES

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ENGINEERING

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Cultivating the Next Generation of Innovators CAREERS FROM CONCEPTS TO

BCHS Engineering teacher and 2023 Secondary Teacher of the Year, Daniel Auchenbach explains that the implementation of the design process is at the core of the program. Students are guided through the entire lifecycle of engineering projects, from conceptualization to the production of tangible prototypes, including testing and multiple redesigns to improve upon the final product. Auchenbach states he gives students the opportunity to experience the engineering design process in a safe environment with the chance for a design to fail. He emphasizes “failure is not a negative but a learning experience,” encouraging students to take the information gained from failure to redesign and improve their projects. This hands-on, trial-and error approach not only instills resilience in students but also equips them with the practical skills needed to tackle real-world engineering challenges. “This class hits on my favorite thing about teaching, which is witnessing the moment of learning, the lightbulb click. That’s the best moment,” reflects Auchenbach, highlighting the joy he finds in guiding students through the discovery of knowledge.

BRIDGE CITY HIGH SCHOOL’S ADVANCED ENGINEERING CLASS STANDS OUT AS A HUB FOR CULTIVATING THE NEXT GENERATION OF INNOVATORS. FOCUSED ON IMPARTING ESSENTIAL KNOWLEDGE AND SKILLS IN THE PROCESS OF DESIGN AS IT APPLIES TO ENGINEERING FIELDS, THE PROGRAM EQUIPS STUDENTS WITH A DIVERSE SET OF TOOLS AND SOFTWARE APPLICATIONS NECESSARY FOR PRODUCING AND PRESENTING CUTTING-EDGE CONCEPTS. “One of the things I really like about this class is looking at a problem and being able to solve it in the way that I want to and not necessarily being told how to do it,” shares Colton Gross, a Senior Engineering student. This sentiment encapsulates a significant aspect of the program—the exploration of different ways to solve problems. The curriculum encourages students to think outside the box, fostering a mindset that values creativity and individual problem-solving approaches. “We’ve learned how to use a lot of things like 3D printers, the CNC machine, [wood engraving] lasers, but we’ve also learned about team building and leadership,” Gross adds. As an A&M hopeful, he expresses confidence that this course has not only equipped him with the technical skills required for engineering but has also instilled the collaborative and leadership qualities crucial for success. Gross believes this preparation will be invaluable as he embarks on his future education in engineering, paving the way for a promising career in the field.

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2023-24 BCHS Engineering

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READY SET TEACH

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READY? SET. TEACH! Students Gain Insight into the World of Education \\ By Natasha Ray

2023-24 BCHS Ready Set Teach Team

Holland, BCHS teacher, emphasizes the program’s impact: “Ready Set Teach is a fun way for our students to get hands-on experience inside of a classroom with a teacher and students. They learn a lot about classroom management, they teach in front of a class, and gain a lot of experience for anything they may want to pursue in the future with education.” The Ready Set Teach program is a practical, immersive experience that bridges the gap between academic knowledge and real-world application. Students gain a firsthand understanding of the challenges and triumphs associated with teaching diverse age groups. By working alongside experienced educators, students in this program receive mentorship that goes beyond textbooks. The collaborative environment nurtures a passion for teaching and a commitment to fostering a positive and impactful learning experience for students of all ages. As a result, the Ready Set Teach program at Bridge City High School is a pathway for aspiring educators to step confidently into the dynamic world of teaching, armed with both knowledge and practical experience.

IN THE HEART OF BRIDGE CITY HIGH SCHOOL, AN INNOVATIVE INITIATIVE IS SHAPING THE FUTURE OF ASPIRING EDUCATORS. THE READY SET TEACH CLASS OFFERS STUDENTS A UNIQUE OPPORTUNITY TO DELVE INTO THE PRINCIPLES OF EFFECTIVE TEACHING AND TRAINING PRACTICES. UNDER THE JOINT GUIDANCE OF A HIGH SCHOOL TEACHER SPECIALIZING IN EARLY CHILDHOOD EDUCATION AND ELEMENTARY EDUCATORS IN DIRECT INSTRUCTIONAL ROLES AT BRIDGE CITY INTERMEDIATE AND BRIDGE CITY ELEMENTARY, STUDENTS GAIN INVALUABLE INSIGHTS INTO THE MULTIFACETED WORLD OF EDUCATION. Gabriela Leblanc, senior student and President of the Ready Set Teach program, expresses her motivation, saying, “I love helping kids and want to have a positive impact on kids and younger generations. Knowing how to work with kids would definitely help you in the future.” This program equips students with the skills necessary to plan and execute individualized instruction and engaging group activities. Breanna

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AT BRIDGE CITY HIGH SCHOOL, A REMARKABLE TRANSFORMATION IS TAKING PLACE WITHIN THE BUILDING MAINTENANCE CLASS. LED BY COACH CHAD LANDRY, THIS PROGRAM HAS EVOLVED FROM ITS MODEST BEGINNINGS TO A THRIVING COMMUNITY OF AROUND 200 STUDENTS, RESHAPING THE EDUCATIONAL LANDSCAPE. “The program started out with a handful of kids, and we’re at about 200 now,” Coach Chad Landry shares enthusiastically. “We’re getting a new facility, so there’s a lot of excitement around the program. We’re more than just a woodshop. We teach beginner electrical, plumbing, sheetrock, and painting. It’s a little bit of everything. The students nickname it ‘The Dad Class.’” High school junior Luke Williams, who has enrolled in the class every year, reflects on the unique impact of Coach Landry: “Coming out here with Coach Landry is always great. He always teaches us life lessons. and essential teachings that go beyond conventional expectations. As Bridge City High School’s Building Maintenance class continues to thrive and expand, it is undoubtedly building more than structures – it’s building futures filled with versatile skills and boundless potential. Building Maintenance Program Thriving DAD CLASS \\ By Natasha Ray THE feature BUILDING MAINTENANCE He could be a second dad to most people. He teaches us the basics of anything you could know about fixing things around the house. We even poured a concrete slab last year. I genuinely think I learn the most valuable information in this class of all my high school classes.” The expansion of the program reflects a growing interest among students in acquiring hands-on skills that are not only practical but also crucial for future endeavors. The nickname ‘The Dad Class’ reflects the class’s diverse

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BC NEWS

It’s a Great Day to Be a Cardinal! JOIN OUR TEAM

POSITIONS AVAILABLE IN: Substitute Teaching, Food Service, Maintenance, Transportation, Custodial Services Interested in joining the Bridge City ISD family? From instructional staff to support staff, we’re looking for individuals like you to join our team and make a difference in the lives of students!

For more information on the District and open positions, visit www.bridgecityisd.net and click on “Employment.”