Goose Creek CISD April 2024

GOOSE CREEK CISD

GCCISD.NET

GOOSE CREEK CISD ATHLETES BRING GRIT, TOUGHNESS TO FIELDS OF PLAY CREEK ✯ ✯ ✯ ✯ ✯ T H E

FUELING CURIOSITY SAN JACINTO ELEMENTARY AND EXXONMOBIL BAYTOWN’S DYNAMIC STEM DAY COLLABORATION

On November 9, GCCISD’s San Jacinto Elementary partnered with ExxonMobil Baytown for an engaging day filled with hands-on exploration. This collaboration, aimed at nurturing young minds and fostering a passion for science, technology, engineering, and mathematics (STEM), featured a series of workshops carefully curated by ExxonMobil experts. ExxonMobil Baytown employees spent their day volunteering at the elementary school teaching students that science and math are fun. Students participated in interactive experiments, demonstrations, and projects that bring STEM concepts to life. These engaging sessions not only enhance students’ understanding of STEM subjects but also highlight their real-world applications. Throughout the day, San Jacinto Elementary students were introduced to the concepts of drones and robots, including the very exciting robot dog that can be used during emergency events. They observed experiments like soda geysers using Altoids and Coke, critical thinking challenges including water balloons, egg cartons,

and marshmallows. ExxonMobil Baytown volunteers assisted students in constructing Lego boats and marble coasters and demonstrated the concepts of buoyancy and weight distribution. By exposing young minds to the excitement of discovery and problem-solving, this partnership sets the stage for a generation of innovative thinkers and problem solvers. ExxonMobil, a global leader in energy, is committed to supporting education initiatives that promote STEM learning. The company’s professionals play a pivotal role in sharing their expertise with young learners, acting as mentors and guides throughout the STEM Day activities. The ExxonMobil Baytown Complex is one of the largest integrated and most technologically advanced refining and petrochemical complexes in the world. ExxonMobil Baytown’s involvement reflects a broader corporate responsibility to invest in the Baytown community where they operate and contribute to the development of a skilled and diverse workforce.

San Jacinto Elementary partnered with ExxonMobil Baytown for an engaging day filled with hands-on exploration. Photo Credit - Yulia Trujillo- Rodriguez

SWISH OF SUCCESS RETHA SWINDELL INDUCTED INTO THE TEXAS BLACK SPORTS HALL OF FAME

Former Robert E. Lee High School math teacher and head coach of the girls’ varsity basketball program, Retha Swindell, has been honored with induction into the prestigious Texas Black Sports Hall of Fame. This well-deserved recognition comes as Coach Swindell’s lifetime of dedication to both education and sports takes center stage. Coach Swindell’s journey to this historic accolade is a tale of breaking barriers and shattering glass ceilings. As the first Black woman to join the University of Texas women’s basketball team when it transitioned to a varsity sport, she paved the way for future generations of female athletes. Her resilience, skill, and determination not only elevated her own career but inspired countless others to pursue their passions in the world of sports. Beyond her accomplishments on the court, Coach Swindell has left an indelible mark on the lives of colleagues and students alike. Serving as a math teacher within the Goose Creek CISD community, she dedicated herself to fostering academic excellence alongside her coaching responsibilities. Her impact extends far beyond the scoreboard, emphasizing the importance of discipline, teamwork, and perseverance in both the classroom and on the basketball court. During her acceptance speech, Coach Swindell dedicated the honor to her parents, “They understood the power of prayer, were slow to anger and quick to forgive. They put the needs of others before their own.” The induction into the Texas Black Sports Hall of Fame serves as a fitting tribute to Coach Swindell’s legacy, highlighting the profound influence she has had on the world of sports and education. As she takes her place among the esteemed athletes and trailblazers in the Hall of Fame, Goose Creek CISD proudly celebrates the achievements of a remarkable woman who has left an enduring impact on the lives she has touched throughout her distinguished career.

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GCCISD Continues to Strive for Greatness

Welcome to the newest edition of the Goose Creek CISD VYPE magazine! I am deeply honored to be a part of such a great school district that serves the people of Baytown, Texas. We are looking forward to the spring season. Goose Creek CISD was represented well as we had numerous teams make the playoffs. GCM had every Spring Team make the playoffs in the 2023 season, as well as brought home a District championship in Men’s Soccer. We also had the Ross S. Sterling and Robert E. Lee men’s soccer teams make the Men’s Soccer Playoffs. Our track teams represented Goose Creek very well by competing in the District and Regional Track Meet. As we move into the 2024 Spring Sports, we are looking forward to seeing what it brings

to Goose Creek CISD.I know our coaches and student athletes have worked hard in the off-season both on and off the playing fields. Whether it is in the classroom, or serving their communities, the expectation of our coaches and athletes is to be a relentless worker in every aspect of their lives. It is important that our student athletes that the biggest failure is to stay out of the arena and never know what its like to win or lose. We are here to GROW GIANTS and will do so without the fear of failing. We will continue to Grow Giants and continue to prove why we are the best district in the State! Lee Martinez Director of Athletics

GOOSE CREEK CISD

GCCISD.NET

GOOSE CREEK CISD ATHLETES BRING GRIT, TOUGHNESS TO FIELDS OF PLAY CREEK ✯ ✯ ✯ ✯ ✯ T H E

on the cover

Photo by Bradley C. Collier

THE CREEK: Goose Creek Memorial’s Sebastian Rojas, Lee’s Shanya Gordon, Sterling’s Sydney Owens, Lee’s Zach White, Sterling’s Cliff Gammel and Lee’s Caleb Williams are the headliners this spring.

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Dear Goose Creek Families

Spring is here! Time to get ready for those April showers and May flowers. I encourage each of you to embrace the warmer weather and take advantage of the countless opportunities in our community for outdoor activities. Whether it's enjoying a leisurely walk, playing sports, or simply soaking up the sunshine, let's make the most of this vibrant season together. This month, I want to take a moment to acknowledge the incredible efforts of our staff members. Despite facing numerous obstacles, they have remained steadfast in their commitment to providing the highest quality education while finding innovative ways to support every single student. Their adaptability, compassion, and hard work have been instrumental in ensuring the success of our educational mission; to develop the whole child. As we enter the final stretch of the school year, I urge each member of our community to remain steadfast and supportive of our schools. The last few weeks are crucial in maintaining momentum and finishing the year on a strong note. Your continued

encouragement and involvement play a vital role in the success of our students and our school district as a whole! Furthermore, I encourage you to advocate for public education by contacting your elected officials in support of raising the basic student allotment in Texas. Adequate funding is essential to provide our students with the resources and opportunities they deserve. By raising our collective voice, we can ensure that our schools receive the support necessary to thrive and continue serving our community effectively through the numerous For more information, visit www. texansforstrongpublicschools.org Thank you for your ongoing support and dedication to the success of our students and schools. Together, we can make a difference in the lives of our choices we have incorporated into our curriculum offerings.

future leaders. Best Regards, Randal O’Brien, Ed.D Superintendent of Schools

goose creek cIsd Board Members

Howard Sampson District 1 – Vice President

Mercedes Renteria III District 2 – Board Member

James “Jim” Campisi District 3 – Assistant Secretary

Richard Clem District 4 – Board Member

Hellen Berrott-Tims District 5 – Secretary

Tiffany Guy District 6 – President

Jessie Martinez District 7 – Board Member

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Little Big Man The Futurist Coach on the Field

Kimora Douglas

CHECK MATES HOUSTON LOVES TEACHERS HONORS OUTSTANDING EDUCATOR AND SCHOOL

In a celebration of educational excellence, Houston Loves Teachers, in partnership between Precinct 3 and the Houston Loves Teachers program through the Harris County Houston Sports Authority, recently awarded Ashley Henderson, a dedicated 6th-grade teacher, and E.F. Green Junior School for their remarkable contributions to Houston-area students. Lawrence Bell, Community Involvement for Harris County Precinct 3 Commissioner Tom Ramsey, and Maria Duran, Community Engagement Director for Harris County Sports Authority, surprised Ashley Henderson in her classroom at E.F. Green Junior School with a $1,000 check. Known for her unique teaching methods and unwavering dedication to her students, Ms. Henderson has proven to be an inspiration to both her colleagues and the young minds under her guidance. In an equally surprising moment, Mr. Bell interrupted the celebration to announce that Dr. Alicia Babin and the campus were also being recognized and would receive a check for $4,000 for the school.

Houston Loves Teachers, a citywide outreach and support effort for educators, both present and future, partnered with Commissioner Tom Ramsey to identify the best teachers and campus talents in Precinct 3’s boundaries. E.F. Green Junior School emerged as a beacon of educational excellence, showcasing a commitment to fostering a positive learning environment and nurturing the intellectual growth of its students. The office of Precinct 3 Commissioner Tom Ramsey, who played a pivotal role in recognizing outstanding educators, expressed their admiration for the exceptional work being done at E.F. Green Junior School. They emphasized the importance of investing in education and supporting teachers who play a crucial role in shaping the minds of the next generation. To learn more about the Harris County Sports Authority or their program Houston Loves Teachers, please visit https://www. houstonsports.org/ or https://houstonlovesteachers.org/.

Norma Martinez (GCCISD), Ashley Henderson (Teacher), Maria Duran (Harris County Sports Authority), Alicia Babin (Principal), and Lawrence Hall (Precinct 3) pose with the checks awarded. Photo Credit - Carrie Pryor-Newman

MAESTRO IN THE LIMELIGHT DENNIS EICHLER’S INDUCTION INTO THE TEXAS BAND MASTERS ASSOCIATION HALL OF FAME

Dennis Eichler’s musical journey began in the corridors of a middle school band in Alice. Fueled by his passion for music, he earned his bachelor’s degree from Texas A&M Corpus Christi and later pursued a master’s in education from the University of Houston. Embarking on his career as an assistant band director in Corpus Christi, Dennis quickly became a prominent figure in the Texas music education scene. His dedication and leadership shone through when he assumed the position of band director at Lee High School in Baytown in July of 1978. Under Mr. Eichler’s baton, the bands at Lee High School earned numerous awards throughout the Southwest. His commitment to musical excellence didn’t stop there. Mr. Eichler was later promoted to Head of the Music Department at Sterling High School, where he conducted the full orchestra, band, and marching band. His groups amassed an impressive 33 UIL Sweepstakes awards during his 26 years at Goose Creek CISD. Mr. Eichler’s influence extends far beyond the classroom. As an active adjudicator at Lone Star College and musical director of the Kingwood Big Band, he has continued to leave his mark on the musical landscape. A member of esteemed associations such as the Texas Music Adjudicators Association, Texas Music Educators Association, and National Association of Jazz Educators, his impact reaches not only local communities but also extends internationally. When asked what he planned to do next, Mr. Eichler responded excitedly, “Continue to make great music. This is my 46th year in education and I’m still having a blast!” As we look forward to his induction into the Texas Band Masters Association Hall of Fame, we celebrate the remarkable career of Dennis Eichler, a true maestro and inspiration to the world of music education.

memorial Photo feature

Darrell Fisher

WRAP the winter GCM CONTINUES TO RISE TO THE OCCASION

THE PATRIOTS HAD THEIR FAIR SHARE OF SUCCESS THROUGHOUT THE 2023-24 WINTER SEASON. GCM BOYS HOOPS WENT 8-6 IN THE DISTRICT PRIOR TO MAKING A PLAYOFF APPEARANCE. COACH JAMAAL HAYMON’S GROUP WAS HIGHLIGHTED BY THE PERFORMANCES OF ALL-DISTRICT HONOREES ZA’VON SPENCER, TAVION GADDIS, JAXON WOODS AND AIDEN PURCELL. THE GIRLS EXPERIENCED A SIMILAR RESULT, GOING 9-5 AGAINST THEIR DISTRICT COUNTERPARTS, BEFORE REACHING THE POSTSEASON. THE PATS WERE ANCHORED BY UPPERCLASSMEN CAMRYN MADDEN, LEAH TORRES, AND MICHAYLAH GRAY. ON THE SOCCER FIELD, BOTH THE GIRLS AND BOYS TEAMS EXCELLED, WITH COACH WILLIAM FREEMAN’S SQUAD CLAIMING AN UNDEFEATED DISTRICT CHAMPIONSHIP. GCM WAS HEADLINED BY CARLOS GONZALEZ FOR THE GUYS AND PATRICIA TORRES FOR THE LADIES.

Memorial Girls Basketball

Luna Lerma

Ruby Mosley

Memorial Boys Soccer

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memorial Photo feature

Za’Von Spencer

Ramon Diaz

Allyson Figueroa

Memorial Girls Soccer

Memorial Boys Basketball

Michaylah Gray

Oliver Reyes

Lanae DuBose

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cover story

memorial

LITTLE BIG MAN ROJAS BIG PIECE TO PATRIOTS’ SUCCESS

\\ Matt Malatesta

WHEN SEBASTIAN ROJAS SUITS UP FOR THE GOOSE CREEK MEMORIAL PATRIOTS BASEBALL TEAM AND HUSTLES AROUND THE DIAMOND, ONE THING COMES TO MIND IMMEDIATELY… HOUSTON ASTRO JOSE ALTUVE. “I get that a lot because of my size,” the three-year starter said. “I guess it’s a blessing of sorts, but it’s really easy to get looked over. I really want to play college baseball, but it’s just going to take that one coach to give me a chance because of my size.” But, you can’t measure a man by his stature. Besides being a stud at shortstop, Rojas is an exemplary student in the classroom. “I’m in the Top 10-percent,” he softly said. “Grades are really important, and I really do it for my parents. I want to be able to pay for college through scholarships, and academics can do that. Honestly, school just comes naturally to me, especially math. I’d like to be an accountant or a financial planner when I get older.” Rojas is the engine behind the Pats’ success. “I don’t have any individual goals in particular. I just want to lead my team to the playoffs and do better than last season,” he said. “It’s been really special playing here and I’m really going to miss playing with my guys. We’ve been playing together for what seems like forever.” His parents, who played baseball and softball, introduced Rojas to the game at a young age. “They threw me into baseball to keep me busy,” he laughed. “But they have been my inspiration on this journey. Them and my Grandpa, who passed when I was a freshman. His memory keeps me motivated.” The self-proclaimed “family guy”, is the middle child. His brother played and his sister, Danielle, will next year. Softball, right? “No, she’s going to try out for baseball,” he said. “She’s pretty good and has been around the game a long time with us boys.” That’s just like a Rojas to beat the odds.

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memorial Baseball

BUYING IN GCM BASEBALL ANTICIPATING A RETURN TO THE POSTSEASON

Audel Abrego, Fabian Torres, Adrian Torres, Zachery Reed and Sebastian Rojas

PLAYERS TO WATCH

Audel Abrego Zackery Reed Sebastian Rojas Fabian Torres

Fabian Torres

Adrian Torres

THREE YEARS INTO THIS PROGRAM AND I THINK WE HAVE A GREAT CULTURE ESTABLISHED. I CAME FROM A TRADITION RICH BASEBALL PROGRAM IN ALVIN, RIGHT IN NOLAN RYAN-COUNTRY, AND THE GUYS HAVE REALLY BOUGHT INTO WHAT I’VE BROUGHT HERE. I CAN’T ASK FOR ANYTHING MORE FROM THEM IN TERMS OF THEIR COMMITMENT.

GEORGE BANDA - GOOSE CREEK MEMORIAL BASEBALL

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Softball

memorial

THE STRENGTH OF THIS TEAM STEMS FROM THEIR RESILIENCY. THEY’RE VERY GOOD AT COMING BACK FROM BEHIND AND HOLDING EACH OTHER ACCOUNTABLE. WHEN SOME OF US AREN’T LOCKED IN WHEN WE’RE SUPPOSED TO BE, THEY’LL CALL EACH OTHER OUT IN A POSITIVE MANNER, WHICH I HAVE ENCOURAGED. WE ARE ENSURING THAT BECAUSE WE’RE ALL TRYING TO ACHIEVE THE SAME GOAL.

KRISTIN JASO - GOOSE CREEK MEMORIAL SOFTBALL

PLAYERS TO WATCH Nevaeh Arismendez

Morgan Holdren Summer Marron Maritza Martinez

Morgan Holdren, Mia Cavallini, Summer Marron, Nevaeh Arismendez and Maritza Martinez

Mia Cavallini

Nevaeh Arismendez

READY TO RALLY PATRIOTS HOLDING EACH OTHER ACCOUNTABLE

memorial Track & field

BRINGING THE HEAT GCM TRACK FIRED UP FOR ANOTHER SPRING CAMPAIGN

ATHLETES TO WATCH Trejon Crump

Kaylee Edwards Camille Gladney Devin Ruiz Naomi Torres Caleb Williams

Jonathan Gonzales

Naomi Torres

Kimora Douglas

Caleb Williams, Devin Ruiz, Tre’Jon Crump & Jonathan Gonzales

Tre’Jon Crump

Camille Gladney

Devin Ruiz

WE’RE DEFINITELY FAMILY-ORIENTED WITHIN THIS PROGRAM. THE GIRLS GET ALONG, WE HAVE FUN ON THE TRACK, AND THEY WORK HARD FOR EACH OTHER. I’M EXPECTING THEM TO COMPETE WELL, AND MAKE SURE THAT THE PATRIOTS ARE BRINGING THAT SPEED EVERY SINGLE DAY.

TITUS STANDBERRY GOOSE CREEK MEMORIAL GIRLS COACH

Kimora Douglas, Camille Gladney, Alana Zenn and Naomi Torres

I FEEL THAT THE STRENGTH OF THIS GROUP IS THEIR PERSEVERANCE. WE STARTED WORKING EARLY AND BUILT THE PROGRAM FROM THE GROUND UP. WE HAVE A LOT OF YOUNG GUYS WHO ARE WORKING HARD, BUT THERE ARE ALSO SEVERAL SENIORS THAT ARE SHOWING PLENTY OF LEADERSHIP. THAT CHARACTER AND INTEGRITY IS WHAT DRIVES THESE GUYS. MARLON TAPLIN-MCMILLAN GOOSE CREEK MEMORIAL BOYS COACH

memorial Next Gen

Jayden Escamilla & Madelyn Sebren

Cam Santos & Evolet Minson

Kobe Smith & Anthony Garcia

Jalen Crawford

CLIPPING THEIR WINGS

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THE EF GREEN OWLS AND HIGHLANDS EAGLES WILL BE THE NEW KIDS ON THE BLOCK AT GOOSE CREEK MEMORIAL. THE FUTURE PATRIOTS HAVE LOOKED PROMISING AS THE OWLS WERE THE TOP BOYS AND GIRLS BASKETBALL TEAMS THIS WINTER. LET’S SEE WHAT THE EAGLES WILL DO IN THE SPRING.

Kobe Smith

Kyndra Thompson & Yesenia Sandoval

Jalen Crawford, Kamron McGinty & Aiden Houston

Cam Santos

Diego Toledo

Christian Diaz & Diego Toledo

Hayden Pequeno

Jaylnn Montelongo & Annecia Driver

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Lee PHoto feature

Karol Amaro

CHILL no GANDERS SHOWED MARKED IMPROVEMENT IN WINTER SEASON

AS THE TEMPERATURE DROPPED, ROBERT E. LEE BEGAN TO RISE. STARTING ON THE BASKETBALL COURT, THE GANDERS WITNESSED A TREMENDOUS TURN-AROUND UNDER THE DIRECTION OF HEAD COACH CHANCE LAFOUR. AFTER GOING 18-15 ON THE YEAR, LEE WAS JUST BARELY ON THE OUTSIDE OF PLAYOFF CONTENTION, HOWEVER, THE PERFORMANCES OF SENIORS KYLAN WILLIAMS, CAMERON LANDRY AND STEVEN KUBIN SHOULD NOT GO UNNOTICED. THE GIRLS HAD THEIR UPS AND DOWNS, BUT MELANIE REYNOSA AND TAYLYNNE POWELL PROVIDED THE NECESSARY EXPERIENCE FOR COACH ANTIONETTE BROWN’S SQUAD. ON THE PITCH, BOTH THE BOYS AND GIRLS CLAWED THEIR WAY TO A COMPETITIVE LEVEL WITHIN DISTRICT PLAY.

Leren Curry, Amani Arzu, Steven Kubin, Kylan Williams & Cameron Landry

Marli Barlow

Lee Girls Soccer

Timeriah Taylor, Shakirria Wright, Melanie Reynosa, Marli Barlow & Taylynne Powell

Amani Arzu

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Lee PHoto feature

Eduardo Martinez

Makenzy Moore

Grecia Rodriguez

Lee Boys Soccer

Timeriah Taylor

Kylan Williams

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baseball

Lee

OUR CULTURE HERE IS ‘EVERYTHING MATTERS’. THAT’S OUR MOTTO. EVERY REP YOU TAKE IN PRACTICE MATTERS, SO YOU NEED TO TAKE IT WITH FOCUS AND SERIOUSNESS. EVERY AT-BAT YOU GET MATTERS. EVERYTHING DESERVES YOUR ATTENTION, AND IT ALL ADDS UP TO A WIN IN THE NEXT GAME. WE’RE GOING TO BE AGGRESSIVE AND SCRATCH OUT SOME RUNS AS WE MAKE OUR WAY THROUGH THE SEASON. TRENT PADGETT - BAYTOWN LEE BASEBALL

PLAYERS TO WATCH Ivan Cortes Adrian Garcia Zach White

Lee Baseball

Zach White

Ivan Cortes

ON A MISSION LEE BASEBALL IN HOT PURSUIT OF PLAYOFF SPOT

Lee Softball

FLIPPING THE SCRIPT LEE SOFTBALL ON THE CUSP OF DISTRICT RESPECT

Lee Softball

PLAYERS TO WATCH Calli Barron

Janesa Coronel Rhilynne Foster Bailee Maybin

Gia Graham

Tara Archibald

OUR KEY CONTRIBUTORS ARE OLDER THIS YEAR, AND WE HAVE A GOOD MIX OF UNDERCLASSMEN. THAT SHOULD HELP US TURN THINGS AROUND THIS SEASON. WE’VE ALREADY SEEN THAT WE’RE HITTING BETTER, AND WE’RE FURTHER ALONG THIS YEAR THAN WE WERE AT THIS POINT LAST SPRING.

DENISE ATMAR - BAYTOWN LEE SOFTBALL

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Cover Story

Lee

THE FUTURIST LEE’S GORDON HAS A ONE-TRACK MIND

\\ Matthew Ogle

every year that I’ve been running, and I know we’re going to make it there again this year, if not better.” If being a first-class component of the Ganders relay team wasn’t enough, this Lee senior also spends her time perfecting another craft that requires her dedication. “I’ve basically been a dancer all my life,” Gordon said. “I love dancing just as much as I love to run. It all kind of plays together, since they both require a lot of conditioning. I’m a member of Lee’s dance team (The Celebrities), and I mainly dance to the hip-hop genre, and maybe a little jazz.” Gordon seems to have it all figured out, dating back to her childhood. Given that fact, it shouldn’t come as a shock that she already has plans for the future. “I’m not sure which college I want to attend just yet, but I do know that I want to go into the medical or education field someday,” she said. “I love helping people, and I’ve wanted to be a trauma surgeon since I was a little kid. “I’ve always been one to watch Criminal Minds and shows like that, so I think I have the stomach for it. If I can go into that field and maybe go into education and teach it, that would be something cool.” If her track record is any indication, Gordon and company will only be looking ahead this spring, as they pursue their fourth-straight Regional appearance and more.

she said. “They motivate me all the time. I couldn’t ask for a better team to be a part of, and the same can be said for the coaching staff, who I love so much. Plus, being able to encourage other girls to run and do the things that we do is amazing. “Overall, they are the reason I’ve stuck with it for so long. Becoming one with them has been a blessing. We’ve made it to Regionals

“I’ve always loved to run,” said Gordon. “All of my siblings did it, and I would love to watch them at their summer meets, which led to me getting into track. I’ve been a natural runner ever since. I am the last girl of the family, so it means a lot to me to have this opportunity.” Gordon’s relatives aren’t the only ones driving her to compete. “It’s also my ‘track family’,”

COMPETING AT A HIGH LEVEL IN GREATER HOUSTON TRACK AND FIELD IS EASIER SAID THAN DONE. There’s a certain mental fortitude and passion required for an athlete to constantly push themselves beyond their limits in order to succeed. Fortunately for Baytown Lee’s Shanya Gordon, those intangibles come naturally to her.

Lee Track & field

PEDAL TO THE MEDAL THE BAR IS SET HIGH FOR GANDERS TRACK

ATHLETES TO WATCH

Harmonie Brooks Levay Duncan Jr. Shanya Gordon Josiah Joseph Kavion Ledet DevEonne Sennett Timeriah Taylor Jolia Williams

Kavion Ledet, Alejandro Saenz, DevEonne Sennett, Josiah Joseph & Levay Duncan Jr.

Timeriah Taylor

Levay Duncan Jr.

Shanya Gordon, Kynnedy Hawkins, Jolia Williams, Harmonie Brooks & Heaven Perkins

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WE ALWAYS HAVE HIGH EXPECTATIONS FOR THESE GIRLS, ESPECIALLY FOR OUR RELAYS. COACH (KIERSTON) DUTTON AND I HAVE BEEN TRAINING THEM HARD TO PREPARE FOR WHAT’S TO COME LATER IN THE SEASON. WE’RE LOOKING TO REPEAT AT REGIONALS THIS YEAR, WHICH WOULD ACTUALLY BE THE FOURTH TIME IN A ROW. HOPEFULLY WE CAN GET BACK IN AND MAKE A PUSH FOR STATE. CRYSTAL AGUERO BAYTOWN LEE GIRLS COACH

Harmonie Brooks

Kavion Ledet

WE HAVE A WORK-FIRST MENTALITY HERE AT LEE. OUR TRACK PROGRAM IS AN EXTENSION OF OUR FOOTBALL PROGRAM. SO, WHEN WE GO TO ANY EVENT OR MEET, A LOT OF THE GUYS YOU SEE ARE FROM THE FOOTBALL TEAM. I WANT THEM TO EMBRACE THAT MINDSET IN ORDER TO ATTACK FULL-FLEDGED.

AVERION HURTS BAYTOWN LEE BOYS COACH

Alejandro Saenz

Lee

Next Gen

Deja Williams, Naidaly Ramirez, Allegra McCallum & Justyce Powell

Horace Mann & Baytown Junior Middle School Soccer

THE NEXTGEN

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THE BAYTOWN JUNIOR HIGH GOSLINGS AND HORACE MANN GATORS ARE MOVING FROM THE SMALL POND TO THE BIG POND AS THEY EMBARK ON THEIR HIGH SCHOOL EXPERIENCE. THE FUTURE OF THE GANDERS IS IN THEIR HANDS. LET’S SEE WHAT THEY DO WITH THEIR OPPORTUNITIES THE NEXT FOUR YEARS.

Abigail Garibay, Kennedy Williams, Victoria Alvarez & Mollie Wolfford

Baytown Junior Middle School Basketball

Horace Mann Middle School Basketball

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sterling PHoto feature

Jayla Hutchinson

EFFORT STERLING STERLING EXCELLED IN RESPECTIVE FIELDS OF PLAY

THE RANGERS WERE NOTHING IF NOT RESILIENT OVER THE WINTER. BEGINNING ON THE PITCH, COACH AUSTIN HOLMELIN’S GIRLS CONTINUED TO EXCEL IN THE DISTRICT AS KEY PLAYERS – KATELYNN IBARRA, SAMARA HUERTA, AND LAUREN KINDER – PAVED THE WAY TOWARDS ANOTHER WINNING SEASON. THE BOYS EXPERIENCED SIMILAR SUCCESS AGAINST THEIR DISTRICT COUNTERPARTS, WITH DANIEL MIRANDA, JULIAN ORNELAS AND FERNANDO TORRES MAKING SIGNIFICANT CONTRIBUTIONS. BOTH STERLING BOYS AND GIRLS HOOPS WERE ANCHORED BY SENIORS AS THEY PROGRESSED THROUGH A DIFFICULT DISTRICT SCHEDULE. MEANWHILE, UNDER THE DIRECTION OF COACH CLYM GATRELL, THE SWIM TEAM FEATURED THE LIKES OF AARON AVANT, AMANDA WOOD, TYCE SMOKE AND CAROLINE MENDEZ.

Sterling Boys Basketball

Fernando Torres

Lakayla Anthony

Sterling Swim

Sterling Girls Soccer

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sterling PHoto feature

Sterling Girls Basketball

Abraham Mendoza

Amanda Wood

Garland Rivon

Aaron Avant

Jackelyn Arevalo

Julian Ornelas

Tajelle Vige

Caroline Mendez

Sterling Boys Soccer

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Softball

Sterling

ON THE CUSP

THE LADY RANGERS ARE HEADED BACK TO THE SOFTBALL DIAMOND MORE DETERMINED THAN EVER, AFTER JUST NARROWLY MISSING OUT ON THE PLAYOFFS IN 2023. DESPITE COMPETING AGAINST TOUGH DISTRICT OPPONENTS SUCH AS BARBERS HILL, CROSBY AND PNG, STERLING WILL MAKE A STRONG CASE TO FINISH IN THE TOP-FOUR. COACH DOROTHY WARNER IS BRINGING BACK SEVERAL OF LAST YEAR’S STARS, SUCH AS JUNIOR SHORTSTOP SIMYAH SMITH, KENDELL WILCOX AND JENASIS SANCHEZ, WHICH BODES WELL FOR THE BAYTOWN LINEUP. “WE HAVE A GOOD GROUP OF RETURNERS WHO KNOW THE CULTURE,” SHE SAID. “THE CULTURE IS THAT THE LITTLE THINGS MATTER. ALL THE LITTLE THINGS ADD UP TO OUR ULTIMATE GOALS.” THE GOAL? - THE POSTSEASON.

Kendell Wilcox

Sadie Nevarez, Simyah Smith, Jenasis Sanchez and Kendell Wilcox

Sadie Nevarez

Simyah Smith

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sterling Baseball

TRUE GRIT STERLING BASEBALL AIMING TO RE-ENTER DISTRICT CONVERSATION

Diego Gonzalez

Fabian Jimenez

PLAYERS TO WATCH

Ashton Butler Cliff Gammel Diego Gonzalez

Jonathan Raymundo

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Jonathan Raymundo, Cliff Gammel, Fabian Jimenez, Ashton Butler and Diego Gonzalez

THE STRENGTH OF THIS TEAM IS DEFINITELY THE CULTURE

WE HAVE BUILT. WE’RE BUILT ON BEING DETAIL-ORIENTED

AND ONE OF OUR BIG WORDS THIS YEAR IS ‘GRIT’. I FEEL

LIKE WE HAVE A LOT OF THAT. OUR GUYS COME TOGETHER

AS A UNIT AND THEY GET AFTER IT TOGETHER.

DUSTAN GREER - BAYTOWN STERLING BASEBALL

Ashton Butler

sterling Cover Story

COACH ON THE FIELD GAMMEL IS STERLING’S GO-TO GUY

\\ Matt Malatesta

him some important life lessons. “I’ve had to grind and work hard,” he said. “I’ve never been the biggest, fastest or strongest, so I work in the gym constantly. When I was a freshman, I was on the freshman team. As a sophomore, I was on JV. I’ve always been grinding, but I have a lot of intangibles like leadership.” When he plays out the string of his baseball career, Gammel plans on being close to the game. “I want to be a high school coach,” he said. “Even now, I love helping my teammates and the younger guys with questions they have about the game. That’s my plan… to be a coach.” Ranked in the Top 12-percent of his class with a 4.0 GPA, Gammel is also committed to the books. “Having all A’s is the standard,” he said. “It’s always been grades over baseball. That has been important in my family.” The middle child is wise beyond his years as well. “You have to go with the flow,” he laughed. “I’ve learned a lot being a middle child. You have to able to deal with the criticism or living up to an older brother, while learning what advice or what to say or not to say to a little brother. It’s a balancing act.” For Sterling baseball, Gammel is keeping his squad on the straight-and-narrow as they navigate the rough waters of district play, with the playoffs potentially on the horizon.

played,” he said. “I had a great experience in Baytown Little League and select ball, which prepared me to play at this level. I’m working on my game every day and hope to have a good enough year to get a college scholarship. That’s the goal.” The game has also taught

pitch and know what to do in any scenario. You have to be locked in and make all the call outs. That’s what I love about the position.” The two-year starter is a field rat, dating back a decade. “My Dad taught me the game and my older brother

THE SIGN OF A GOOD TEAM IS HAVING A GREAT COACH ON THE FIELD. For Sterling baseball coach Dustan Greer, that guy is shortstop Cliff Gammel. “Playing shortstop is like being the quarterback out on the field,” the senior said. “I have to be engaged on every

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Golf

Sterling

BUILDING A BRAND HOLBROOK ENTERS YEAR ONE WITH STERLING GOLF

Radley Dizon, Raymond Hernandez III and Noah Caban

Mia Tatum, Mia Patel and Presley Holtz

PLAYERS TO WATCH Radley Dizon Raymond Hernandez III Presley Holtz Mia Tatum

Raymond Hernandez III

Presley Holtz

IN MY FIRST SEASON, I’M HOPING TO ESTABLISH STERLING GOLF AS A BRAND-NAME, AND LET THE SCHOOL KNOW THAT WE EVEN EXIST. SOME OF THE TEACHERS AND ADMINISTRATORS DIDN’T EVEN KNOW WE HAD A GOLF TEAM. THIS YEAR IT’S ALL ABOUT CHANGING THAT, CHANGING THE ATMOSPHERE HERE AND I KNOW THESE ATHLETES WILL REPRESENT THE SCHOOL WELL.

Noah Caban

SHANE HOLBROOK - BAYTOWN STERLING GOLF

Mia Patel

Sterling Track & field

SPEED DEMONS STERLING TRACK HAS THEIR SIGHTS SET ON REGIONALS

Gavin Cortez

ATHLETES TO WATCH Brennon Allen Alaina Laday Nicholas Mendoza Irad Mixon Thomas Moreno Emily Otelle

Sonnie Owens Sydney Owens

Sydney Owens and Sonnie Owens

Alaina LaDay, Kayla Myers, Sydney Owens, Sonnie Owens and Emily Ottele

Gavin Cortez

Nicholas Mendoza, Irad Mixon, Brennon Allen, Thomas Moreno and Gavin Cortez

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THE EXPECTATION THIS SEASON IS JUST TO FINISH. LAST YEAR WE GOT CLOSE, SO WE HAVE SOME UNFINISHED BUSINESS. WE MADE IT ALL THE WAY TO REGIONALS, AND WE HAVE A COUPLE OF THOSE GIRLS COMING BACK. SO, THAT’S THE MINDSET WE HAVE MOVING FORWARD.

KELLY WALKER BAYTOWN STERLING GIRLS COACH

Emily Ottele

OUR MINIMUM EXPECTATION IS ALWAYS REACHING THE REGIONAL FINALS. WE RACE WITH THAT IN MIND WE TAKE THE REGULAR MEETS AS ‘FAST-PRACTICE’. OUR SIGHTS ARE SET TO THE END OF APRIL. OF COURSE, ONE OF THE OTHER THINGS WE STRIVE FOR IS ‘FAMILY’. WE REALLY WANT THE ATHLETES TO BUILD EACH OTHER UP AS THE SEASON PROGRESSES. RON MCDOWELL BAYTOWN STERLING BOYS COACH

Sterling

Next Gen

Lilly Williams, Alecia Watson & Taraji Landingham

Joshua Herman & Matthew Martinez

Santiago Medina & Jonathan Torres

THE FUTURE LOOKS BRIGHT

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THE CEDAR BAYOU BEARS AND GENTRY MUSTANGS WILL FILL THE HALLS OF STERLING HIGH SCHOOL IN YEARS TO COME. THEY WILL BE PREPARED TO MOUNT UP AS RANGERS AS THEIR JUNIOR HIGH COACHES HAVE SPENT COUNTLESS HOURS COACHING THEM UP.

Daylon Gallaway & Avery Collins

Ruby Loya, Sasha Perez & Kaylee Zamora

Alyson Barger & Isabella Hughes

Aaron Gonzales & Rigoberto Conejo

Taniyah Haggerty & Janyia Slaughter

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TIA? TI-YAY! GCCISD TO RECEIVE OVER $1.5 MILLION FROM STATE

Goose Creek CISD is excited to announce that over 160 teachers will receive over $1.5 million in additional bonuses in recognition of their outstanding efforts in the classroom through the Teacher Incentive Allotment (TIA) initiative. The Teacher Education Agency (TEA) created the Teacher Incentive Allotment (TIA) to provide additional funding for top-performing teachers. Eligible teachers can earn one of three levels of designation - Recognized, Exemplary, or Master. The purpose of TIA is to incentivize effective teachers to remain in the classroom and prioritize high needs campuses. Brooke Dockery, GCCISD’s Associate Director of Compensation, began the lengthy process in the Fall of 2021. A committee comprised of campus leaders and central administration staff was formed to create a local designation system and determine the measures for designations, as well as identify eligible teaching groups. The proposal was submitted to TEA in the Spring of 2022, and the district collected student classroom growth and teacher observation data during the 2022-2023 school year. GCCISD submitted the data to TEA in the Fall of 2023 and received notification that the data had been approved. GCCISD is awaiting the next steps in notifying teachers who will be receiving a designation. Those who earn a designation will automatically receive bonuses for the next 5 years. The District also intends to expand eligible teaching groups in the future and recommend additional teachers for TIA designations using student growth and appraisal data. For more information regarding Teacher Incentive Allotment, please visit tiatexas.org or contact Brooke Dockery at 281.420.4800.

HAPPIER, HEALTHIER TOMORROW TOGETHER Be Well™ Baytown proudly reflects on another year of impactful strides toward fostering a healthier community. With a steadfast commitment to engaging communities, fostering collaboration, and building organizational capacity, Be Well Baytown continues to make a difference in the lives of Baytown residents. evaluation support. This investment in organizational capacity is crucial for ensuring that community initiatives have a direct and lasting impact on reducing cancer risk in the Baytown area. Recognizing the integral role of schools in community health, Be Well Baytown emphasizes the importance of investing in the health of students at these establishments. Research consistently demonstrates that healthy students are absent less often, more attentive in class, have fewer behavioral issues, and score better on standardized tests. Although not state mandated, Be Well Baytown

Be Well Baytown is an initiative of The University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center sponsored by ExxonMobil. It aims to mobilize the community to promote wellness and stop cancer before it starts. One of their primary objectives is to initiate an ongoing dialogue about the significance of adopting healthy behaviors. Throughout the fiscal year 2023, Be Well Baytown reached an impressive milestone by engaging 66% of the Baytown population. This accomplishment is a testament to the power of community-driven initiatives in promoting health and wellness. The Be Well Baytown Steering Committee, composed of representatives from 19 organizations, played a pivotal role in orchestrating these initiatives. Their collaborative efforts have yielded significant community reach and garnered overwhelming support for the sustainability of future collaborations. In a survey among Steering Committee members, 94% expressed confidence that community activities can be sustained over the long term.

is pleased to report that 80% of Goose Creek CISD elementary schools have taken the initiative to provide 15-20 minutes of daily recess. This proactive approach to promoting physical activity contributes to the overall well-being and academic success of students in the Baytown community. As Be Well Baytown looks ahead, the initiative remains committed to building a healthier and more vibrant community. Through ongoing engagement, collaboration, and capacity building, Be Well Baytown continues to make a positive impact on the lives of Baytown residents.

Be Well Baytown remains committed to building the capacity of community based organizations to implement evidence-based strategies targeting cancer risk reduction. In the fiscal year 2023 alone, the Be Well Communities™ team dedicated over 4,000 hours to providing capacity building, technical assistance, project management, and program

Community partners join forces to engage in activities like the Community Wellness Festival, aimed at promoting awareness of healthier lifestyle choices. Photo Credit - Carrie Pryor-Newman

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