VYPE Aldine ISD Fall 2022

A L D I N E I S D H I G H S C H O O L S P O R T S

A L D I N E I S D . O R G

2022 Fall Edition

#ALDINEFORWARD ALDINE ISD PUSHES INTO FUTURE, BEGINNING WITH 2022-23 SCHOOL YEAR #ALDINE ARD

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ALDINE ISD NAMES CHIEF FINANCIAL OFFICER

Aldine ISD family. He will greatly add to our leadership team and community.” Before serving as Southside ISD’s CFO, Osborne served as director of account ing for Pasadena ISD from 2017 to 2018. He began his career in education in 2000 in Yukon-Koyukuk School District in Fairbanks, AK, serving as chief finan cial officer and the chief operations offi cer before joining Socorro Consolidated Schools (New Mexico) in 2005, serving as executive director of finance/chief of operations. Osborne joined Houston ISD as assistant controller/interim controller in 2013. “Aldine ISD has a great reputation as a school district in Texas, and it also has a reputation for financial integrity and transparency,” Osborne said. “I am honored to serve the students, staff, and community of Aldine ISD. I look forward to being a part of the Aldine Team.”

as the execution of policies adopted by the Board of Trustees. He will provide leadership for the district’s financial services activity to ensure effective management practices, serve as the chief financial and budget advisor and assume administrative responsibili ties for the district’s business office functions. He joins Aldine ISD from Southside ISD, serving as the chief financial officer since 2018. Osborne directed all oper ations, student services, and business functions through team leadership. In his role, he served as the school bond program manager, direct supervisor of facility maintenance, construction, and real-estate manager. As a cabinet member, he served as an advisor to the superintendent. “Stan brings a wealth of knowledge with more than two decades of experience in the finance industry,” Goffney said. “We are very excited that he will join the was responsible for providing strategic leadership and oversight for an 18-sport NCAA Division 1 FCS intercollegiate athletics program. He oversaw the plan ning, fiscal affairs, staffing, fundraising and promotions, athletics facilities, and regulatory compliance for intercolle giate athletics. Additionally, he worked closely with mul tiple internal and external constituencies to advance the university’s objectives and goals. Washington began his career at the university in 1994 as a senior di rector of auxiliary services/assistant vice president for finance and administration, a position he held for 11 year. Between 2008 and 2018, he was vice president of administration and auxiliary services and director of athletics. Washington’s role in Aldine will include identifying key issues, aligning depart ment goals with the district’s goals, investing in the talent base, leading dis trict planning efforts, and implementing effective improvements.

Aldine Independent School District Superintendent Dr. LaTonya M. Goffney has named Stanley ‘Stan’ Osborne the district’s chief financial officer (CFO). Osborne, an experienced school finance leader, will take the helm of Aldine ISD’s financial business affairs as well

ALDINE ISD NAMES CHIEF OPERATIONS OFFICER

Fred E. Washington, a veteran in organi zation operations, strategic leadership, and oversight, has been named chief operations officer of the Aldine Inde pendent School District. The cabinet-level position oversees the non-instructional functions that support the school district.“ Fred is an exceptional addition to our leadership team,” said Superintendent Dr. LaTonya M. Goffney. “In addition to relevant experience with operations, he brings a depth of leadership experience as a former vice president and director of athletics at Prairie View A&M Univer sity. I am excited to work with Fred as we maximize efficiency and move forward with strategic priorities and goals. With his experience, he can execute core strategies with the entire leadership.” Washington served the university for 27 years before being named vice president and director of athletics in 2018, where he served as a member of the President’s Cabinet. Washington

“I am very excited to join the Aldine Independent School District team. This will be a great opportunity to continue the great work the district is doing to support our students and teachers,” Washington said. “Having been part of the post-secondary level of education, I deeply understand the important work we do in operations.”

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DISTRICT NAMES ASSISTANT SUPERINTENDENT OF STUDENT SUPPORT SERVICES

On Wednesday, August 17, Aldine ISD’s first all-boys school, Impact Leadership Academy at Wilson, opened its doors for the first time to welcome its students on their first day of school. A red carpet greeting was accompanied by business men and leaders of the community to encourage the students as they start the school year. Prairie View A&M was also in attendance, in celebration of the partnership between PVAMU and ILA. “It’s a unique campus,” said Principal Jonathan Kegler. “Most all-boys schools start at middle and they go through high school. We’re starting when they’re young. We’re catching them and training them up when they’re young.” Starting with the end goal in mind is how Kegler wants to approach the instruction of the students. That is evident by the partnership with Prairie View A&M, in Aldine ISD named Diaka R. Melendez Assistant Superintendent of Student Support Services. Melendez is returning home, having started her career in edu cation at Nimitz Ninth Grade School as a teacher and softball coach. Melendez will oversee several depart ments and initiatives, including Guidance and Counseling, Health Services, School Administration, Dropout Recovery, and Social and Emotional Learning and Culture. “Diaka brings 20-plus years of experi ence to the role and is eager to support the district’s strategic priorities,” said Superintendent Dr. LaTonya M. Goffney. “She will be an asset in continuing our work in giving students the resources, skills, and tools that help our students overcome barriers and find success in school, college, and life.” She joins Aldine ISD from Spring ISD, serving as curriculum and instruction executive director since 2021. Melendez

which campus visits are already sched uled for the young students to go and gain exposure of being on a college campus. ILA currently holds students of first, second, and sixth grade, with grades scheduled to be added each year until they reach their goal of having students from first through eighth grade. To round out the morning, ILA held two pep rallies for its students, one for the sixth graders and another for the first and second graders. The pep rallies were used to kick off the beginning of the school year, introducing the students to the various teachers they would be inter acting with and learning what they can expect by attending ILA. The rallies were closed out with the Prairie View cheer team leading the students in a dance and Prairie View chants. led the PreK-12 curriculum development efforts to ensure equitable outcomes for all learners. In her role, Melendez mon itored and ensured curriculum projects, timelines, and activities were completed as outlined in the district’s strategic plan. She supervised the district’s curric ulum directors, content specialists, and instructional technologists. Melendez also led the development and creation of all local district assessments. Addi tionally, she supported the integration of literacy, arts, social-emotional learning (SEL), STEM, and digital technology across curriculum levels. After Nimitz she joined Humble ISD as an assistant principal at Humble High School in 2008. She advanced to associate princi pal of curriculum and instruction at Sum mer Creek HS and Humble HS, a position she held since 2011 until joining Spring ISD in July of 2016. “Working at Aldine means that I will have the opportunity to be part of the work that can positively impact the trajectory of our students’ lives,” said Melendez. “I take that role

very seriously because the work I am helping lead means our students, staff, and schools can tap into every ounce of potential. When I think of all the possibil ities for the students in our classrooms, I think, ‘Wow! How awesome is it to work with this community to change lives? I feel very fortunate to be back.”

IMPACT LEADERSHIPACADEMYGIVES ITS STUDENTSA RED CARPETWELCOME FORTHEIR FIRSTDAY

“We were glad to see PVAMU come out and give our students a genuine PV ex perience,” said Kegler. “They recognize our goal is to provide a unique experi ence for our students, and we appreciate them sharing their time and support.”

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LETTER FROM THE A.D. I hope this letter reaches you all in good health and spirits. I am the Executive Director of Athletics here in Aldine ISD. I am extremely happy and proud to represent this great school district. I will continue to do my best to represent you and Aldine ISD in a first class manner. I want to say Thank you to our School Board and Superintendent, Dr. Goffney , for their hard work and approval of the new stadium. W.W. Thorne opened in 1979 and this year would have made 43 years of service. Thorne stadium has hosted some great teams, including the 1990 5A State and National Champions, Aldine Mustangs. We will continue to be proud of Thorne stadium and the years it served our Aldine community. The new complex will be ready in 2024. I want to thank our neighbors in Spring ISD for making George Stadium available to us this football season so our varsity football teams have a stadium to compete in. I am looking forward to an exciting year of competition. All of the teams have worked hard during off- season and are prepared for competition. We will approach this year focusing on our Three Stripe goals, Student Achievement- High percentage of scholarships, Mission Driven Leadership- Continuing to hire and build leaders, School Culture- excitement in the buildings and on the playing fields. I want you to be involved with all the affiliated programs within Aldine ISD. You have an open invitation to stop by our office to meet the staff and see why we are suited to provide your child with the very best opportunities. Again, I am proud and honored to be associated with the great students, teachers, coaches, sponsors and boosters of Aldine ISD. We will continue to fulfill our mission and vision through the vehicle of Athletics. Dre’ Thompson Dre’ Thompson Executive Director of Athletics Aldine ISD

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SPECIAL THANKS COVER IMAGE: 3R Graphics

S O C I A L AISD

ON THE COVER #AldineForward: Welcome to the

@AldineISD /AldineSchoolDistrict aldineisd

@aldineschooldistrict Aldine ISD /AldineISD

newest edition of VYPE Aldine ISD Magazine. Congratulations to Aldine Davis’ Tailor Perkins, Nimitz ’s Cory Huff Jr., Aldine’s Joshua Johnson, Eisenhower ’s Tyler Hutcherson and MacAr thur ’s Jessika Mar tinez for gracing the cover.

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SUPERINTENDENT’S MESSAGE ALDINE ISD BOARD MEMBERS

On behalf of the Aldine Independent School District and our Board of Trustees, I want to welcome you to the 2022-23 school year! As a student, a teacher and now as a Superintendent, I’ve always loved the start of a new school year because it represents a fresh start. New schedules, new teachers and new friends. For me, it all comes down to the connections, which brings me to our hashtag for this year - #AldineConnected. Whether you’re in an office, a classroom or a community event, you are representing Aldine. You are a walking billboard. I am challenging you to get connected to those around you, connect to your work and community. And remember to use #AldineConnected when you post on social media so we can keep up and connect with you throughout the year. While I am excited about the new school year, I am proud of the work we accomplished academically during the 2021-22 school year. Our students improved on all tests at all grade levels. The largest gains were in elementary reading, with several campuses improving their “Percentage Meets Grade

RANDY BATES

School Board President

Level” performance from spring 2019 (pre-pandemic). There was also growth in all subject areas from 2021: Reading had the most growth and has almost recovered to pre-COVID levels. Students in fourth grade in Spring 2021 showed the most growth in 2022 on their fifth-grade reading tests (24% growth). In addition, elementary campuses outgrew the state in “Percentage Meets” from spring 2021 in reading and math at all grade levels. Eighth grade performance on STAAR in reading, math, science and social studies outgrew the state from spring 2021 in “Percentage Meet,” while high school campuses outgrew the state from last year in “Percentage Meets” for Algebra I, Biology, U .S. History and English II. The kindergarten growth in reading outperformed the national average on our universal screeners this year. We have nearly doubled our number of “A” and “B” schools. The growth is just unbelievable and we have so much to be proud of. This is going to be an exciting school year! For some, it started earlier than others. Harris and Smith Elementary Schools joined Vines Primary and Ermel Elementary as ADSY (Additional Days School Year) campuses and welcomed back students in July. It was uplifting to see how excited and eager those students were to get a head start on their educational journey. The rest of our campuses kicked off the school year in August, including our newest Choice School and first all boys campus, Impact Leadership Academy at Wilson. Those students received a red carpet welcome from 100 men in the Aldine community as well as Impact’s partner, Prairie View A&M University. I am excited about the prospects Impact Leadership Academy will provide their students and know they are off to a strong start. Another reason to be excited? Sports, of course! I am looking forward to our student-athletes competing against our neighbors from Spring ISD during District 14-6A competitions this year. As many of you know, we had to close Thorne Stadium for the next two years so we could build a new and improved stadium to address safety issues. So, for the time being, our varsity football teams will play District 14-6A home games at Spring ISD’s George Stadium. I want to thank Spring ISD for making their facility available to our teams. This will be a challenge, but I am confident our teams will rise to that challenge. Remember, it’s not where we play, but HOW we play! Helping us to capture those plays and other district highlights are our friends at VYPE. Thank you, VYPE, for your continued partnership and incredible work. With the opening of Impact, our total number of campuses is now 84, and I hope to visit all of our campuses at some point during this school year. Visiting our campuses - seeing teachers and students engaged in learning - is a highlight of my week as I believe that school should always be a place that inspires hope and manifests dreams. It truly does take a village to make sure our students have what they need to succeed. I can’t thank our educators enough for their hard work and dedication day in and day out. From the custodial staff who keep our schools and buildings clean, to our district police officers who keep us safe, we are so happy to be able to welcome our students back to a safe and healthy learning environment. To everyone who contributes to our district - I send you my gratitude and thanks for being a part of Team Aldine. Again, I want to welcome you to the 2022-23 school year and I look forward to seeing you when I am out in the community. With Aldine ISD Pride! Dr. LaTonya M. Goffney Dr. LaTonya M. Goffney Superintendent of Schools

DR. KIMBERLEY BOOKER

School Board Vice President

ROSE AVALOS

School Board Secretary

CONCEPTION ESPARZA School Board Member

DR. VIOLA M. GARCIA School Board Member

STEVE MEAD

School Board Member

PAUL SHANKLIN

School Board Member

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cOntEntS TABLE of

22 30 33 37 06 20 Nailing the Routine Net Warriors Setting the Pace Tennis Titans That Fall Feeling Gridiron Boys PHOTOFEATURES

FEATUREDSTORIES

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Bleeding Green & Gold Nimitz Star Cory Huff Jr. Ready for Next Journey at Baylor

From Practice to Performance, Change Is In the Air at Aldine ISD \\ By Joshua Koch

Second is Best

Building Something Aldine’s Joshua Johnson Ready to Get It Done. No. 2 is No. 1 for Eisenhower DB Tyler Hutcherson She Can, She Does Jessika Martinez a Top General for MacArthur

Football News & Notes, Returning All-District Selections + More \\ By Matt Malatesta

Get Your Sparkle On with the 2022-23 Aldine ISD Cheer Squads! \\ By Joshua Koch

All About Action

Play Speaks Louder Than Words for Davis’ Tailor Perkins

Notes & Tidbits for the Volleyball Season and VYPE by the Numbers \\ By Joshua Koch

Cross Country Making Another Run Toward District and Beyond \\ By Joshua Koch

Ready to Serve Up Big-Time Wins in 2022-23 \\ By Joshua Koch

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Samantha Perez MACARTHUR

As the hot summer months of Texas subside into the coolness of the fall, there is that feel of change in the air. Athletes inside Aldine ISD feel the same thing as they have gone from practice to performance with games starting in August. Cross country, football, volleyball, tennis and cheer are all in full swing. Here are the faces of the fall inside Aldine ISD.

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Cortney Davis ALDINE DAV I S

Malaijha Williams NIMI TZ

Bianca Cervantes E I SENHOWER

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Estefania Negrete MACARTHUR

Desmond Dixon ALDINE

Moises Rodriguez NIMI TZ

Jayla Biggens ALDINE DAV I S

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Zaria Robinson NIMI TZ

Aldo Mora ALDINE DAV I S

Eric Bonilla MACARTHUR

Ariana Miranda ALDINE

Samiyah Blue E I SENHOWER

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Ariel Andrade ALDINE DAV I S

Joshua Calderon MACARTHUR

Darrius Adams E I SENHOWER

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Amy Hernandez ALDINE

Keenan Jackson MACARTHUR

Kortez Winslow NIMI TZ

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Samantha Perez ALDINE

Jashyne Daniels ALDINE

Alysia Doyle NIMI TZ

Isabella Moctezuma MACARTHUR

Malik Giles E I SENHOWER

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Karisma Garcia E I SENHOWER

Joan Jalomo ALDINE

Jovial Clark ALDINE DAV I S

Citlali Jimenez E I SENHOWER

Veronica Cantu ALDINE

Amaury Pimentel ALDINE DAV I S

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Cory Huff Jr.

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Nimitz Star Ready for Next Journey at Baylor

Huff refers to Aranda as “calm, cool and collected”. He is a “person over player ” type coach, which hits home with Huff. It ’s a culture thing on the banks of the Brazos. It can be simple as holding a door for a lady, the small things like that. You do small things right, you win. “ ” “The culture he is selling is person over player,” Huff, who has worked a lot on eye discipline this offseason, said. “You’re a person before you’re a player. Football comes with a lot of stuff that comes outside of it . It can be simple as holding a door for a lady, the small things like that . You do small things right , you win.”

WHEN CORY HUFF JR. WAS GROWING UP, HIS TWO FAVORITE SCHOOLS WERE LSU AND BAYLOR. HE LIKED THE TIGERS BECAUSE OF THEIR WINNING WAYS, AND BAYLOR FOR THEIR SCHOOL COLORS – THE GREEN AND GOLD . As Huff grew, so did his football prowess as he became a coveted prospect out of Nimitz High School. The three-star safety’s recruitment exploded in the offseason, racking up 16 offers from programs across the country. But when the Baylor offer came in, it was different . “It made me realize that I can really do something with this football thing,” Huff said. “I always knew I was good. I had a lot of talent . I never knew it could get me into Baylor University. When I saw the tears come down [my mom’s] face, I knew I hadn’ t made it yet , but you feel like you have accomplished something.” Huff ’s mother Falama Fontenot , was brought to tears of joy by the offer from Baylor. Huff had visited Waco three times prior to getting offered by the Bears. On January 9, Huff made it official with the Bears giving his verbal commitment . The selling point? The coaching staff. “In real life, he’s extremely quiet ,” Huff said about Baylor head coach Dave Aranda. “But every time he talks, you can tell he knows what he’s talking about . He’s always respectful. He always gives out respects and gets respect out of me and everyone.”

GO TO VYPE.COM FOR ALL YOUR ALDINE ISD COVERAGE

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Tyler Hutcherson

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BEST THE BEST CORNERBACK AT ALDINE EISENHOWER TYPICALLY EARNS THE RIGHT TO WEAR NO. 7. Senior Tyler Hutcherson, however, declined the allowance. No. 2 is No. 1 for IKE DB Hutcherson \\ B y De n n i s S i l v a I I Hutcherson is verbally committed to play at Stephen F. Austin, though a few schools remain in pursuit of his considerable talents. “It makes my senior year a lot easier. It ’s a lot of stress off my back,” he said. “If I didn’ t commit , I’d probably be wondering where I’m going to go and have a bunch of things going on in my head. But now that I’ve got it out the way, it ’s a relief.”

Hutcherson is more interested in creating his own path by wearing No. 2. Hutcherson wears it because his father, Eric, wore it when he played safety for IKE in the late ’90s. “I always was the No. 2 guy, so I rock No. 2 ,” Hutcherson said. “They told me I could have No. 7, but I just wanted No. 2. I guess I’m going to change the culture of it .” Aside from dad, Hutcherson is hoping to also follow in the footsteps of Adrian Frye, a senior defensive back at Texas Tech and alumnus of Eisenhower, Class of 2017. Eric often took Hutcherson to watch IKE games as a young boy. In middle school, Hutcherson remembers watching and admiring the way Frye played. “He’s really why I play the position I play now,” Hutcherson said. Hutcherson’s goal is to be as inspiring for others as Frye was for him. “I just want to make plays, so that kids who are in the stands now like I used to be, can look up to me as a good example,” he said. “When they see me play, I want them to know what to expect .” Hutcherson was not always a cornerback. He initially played receiver. But Eisenhower coaches, enamored with his speed, athleticism and strong ball skills, moved him to cornerback as a sophomore. “I was mad, but it grew on me,” Hutcherson said. “I just fell in love with it . I had a starting spot right away and they just told me to make plays. I’m glad I made the move. Now, I’m going to college for it .”

“ ”

This year, we have a different mindset and we’re coming for everybody in district.

Now, Hutcherson just stays focused on the season. “This offseason was probably one of the best we’ve ever had,” Hutcherson said. “We did 7-on-7 and got a lot of team chemistry. We all want to win, and we all have that goal this year because last year was a disappointing season. This year, we have a different mindset and we’re coming for everybody in district .” Especially No. 2 , who plays to make dad proud. “I’m just trying to set a high standard,” Hutcherson said. “Back then when he played, they were one of the top teams in the state. I’m just trying to get us back to where they were. It ’s my senior year. I’m trying to go out with a bang.”

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Joshua Johnson

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He expects a breakout campaign, not just because of his preparation but because of new coach Cirilo Ojeda. “He’s been great ,” Johnson said. “Ever since he’s shown up, guys have really locked in. He’s given us all a chance to become more of a unit as a team. He’s really a football guru, in my eyes. He really knows what he’s doing and we’re looking forward to a year of great coaching.” I don't like lazy people. I don't ever want to be one. I always have to be getting something done. In his free time, Johnson likes to work. Be active. Productive. He works for his aunt at Eagle Eye Security, which he credits for helping him stay in shape for football. When he’s not working, in school or on the field, he’s reading or writing. “I believe building generational wealth starts with intelligence,” Johnson said. “I want to build something that will actually last , long after I’m gone,” he added. “I’m always on the move, always trying to get something done. I don’ t like lazy people. I don’ t ever want to be one. I always have to be getting something done.” “ ”

THIS SEASON IS BIG-TIME FOR ALDINE’S JOSHUA JOHNSON. The Mustangs’ linebacker and fullback knows his senior year will be consequential. “This seems to be a defining year,” Johnson said. “I’ll go to college, regardless, but I prefer to go to a school I’m comfortable with. Right now, the goal isn’ t to go to college for football. The goal right now is to play football to go to college.” The good news? He’s as ready as he’s ever been after a few transitional years. Johnson went to Aldine High as a freshman, had to move because of family problems for his sophomore year and returned as a junior. Last year, he said, was a “down year ”. Now he’s back playing his traditional linebacker position and has benefitted from a full spring and summer where the focus was on nothing but football. “I’ve been going to a couple schools because of COVID and family issues, so this was my first real offseason,” Johnson said. “It felt good to get some consistent work and have a consistent position instead of having to move around. It felt good just to get comfortable with my teammates and my coaches.” Intangibly, Johnson has it all. Leadership. Intensity. Maturity. Strength. A trust in his teammates and coaches. “I’m able to put a defense together and allow everyone to know what they need to do,” he said. “Hold everyone accountable and hold myself accountable.” On the field, Johnson stands 6-feet and 212 pounds. He got the season started nicely, averaging a team-best seven tackles per game through the first two games.

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What Aldine ISD school is the most decorated in the school district’s history? Dare to guess? BOYS GRIDIRON \\ B y Ma t t Ma l a t e s t a HERE'S A TRIVIA QUESTION:

THE ALDINE MUSTANGS, WHO WON STATE IN 1990 AND HAS BEEN IN THE STATE FINALS TWICE. That begs the question, who is next?

Eisenhower lost in the 1999 State Finals and has been to the State Semis six times. So many legendary coaches have patrolled the sidelines and dozens of athletes have starred at the college level over the years. Aldine ISD football has history. What history will be made in 2022?

News & Notes

Did You Know?

Returning All-District Selections C O - A L L - P U R P O S E P L AY E R O F T H E Y E A R Ryan Niblett , ATH, Eisenhower 1 S T T E A M Cortney Davis , DE, Davis Demarion Fearence , DE, Davis Ian Polk , OL, MacArthur AJ Stephens , C, MacArthur Cory Huff Jr. , S, Nimitz Joseph Sanders , RB, Nimitz 2 N D T E A M Desmond Dixon , WR, Aldine Seth Smart , OL, Eisenhower Omar Solis , DE, Eisenhower Braylon Ophilat , LB, Eisenhower Darrius Adams , S, Eisenhower Alexio Aleman , OL, MacArthur Justin Williams , WR, MacArthur Christopher Gibson , LB, MacArthur Marquis Ladd , CB, MacArthur Keenan Jackson , S, MacArthur Kortez Winslow , OL, Nimitz E’Daryus Keene , WR, Nimitz Brayden Whitehead , QB, Nimitz

• Eisenhower’s Ryan Niblett (Texas commit) and Nimitz’ Cory Huff (Baylor-commit) were named TD Club Preseason Player of the Year Nominees • Former Nimitz legend Aaron Glenn is the Detroit Lions’ defensive coordinator. His brother Jason Glenn is the AD at Willis ISD. Aaron was featured on HBO’s Hard Knocks . • Nimitz hired first-time head coach Cornelius Harmon to lead the Cougars. He was the offensive coordinator at Summer Creek last year. • Cirilo Ojeda Jr. was named the head coach at Aldine High School . He was the head coach of HISD’s Sharpstown High School the past two seasons. • MacArthur’s AJ Stephens (Rice commit), Justin Williams (ULL, Rice, Air Force, UTSA, Pitt offers) Halakilangi Muagututi’a (Hawaii offer) and Marquis Ladd (Southwestern offer) are all on the recruiting radar. • Nimitz was the only Aldine ISD school to make the 2021 UIL football playoffs • Davis is looking to make school history by winning their first-ever playoff game in 2022.

• Aldine High was named National Champions after winning the 1990 State Championship over Arlington Lamar • The Aldine High Band marched at the 1993 inaugural parade for President Bill Clinton • Former Eisenhower WR Jaelon Darden is on the 53-man roster for the Tampa Bay Bucs. Henry Thomas was also an Eagle and an NFL Pro Bowl DE with the Minnesota Vikings • MacArthur’s Odell James was the state’s No. 1 player back in 1993 and a 3-time Parade All-American. He played at Baylor and is now the QB coach at Duncanville • General Joshua Eaton has played in all games for the University of Oklahoma this season • NFL veteran DB Michael Thomas is a Nimitz grad. He played at Stanford and has been a pro for nine seasons. He plays for the Bengals this year. • Nimitz RB legend Quentin Griffin starred at OU and played for the Denver Broncos in the NFL. He is an assistant at CE King High School • Davis has been to the playoffs five times since it opened in 2012. • Davis coach Scott Joseph was the head coach at Westbury and an assistant at Seven Lakes, Cy Ranch and was the DC at Navarro Junior College during his career.

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F O O T B A L L

Michael Coronado, Carlos Flores, Josue Gonzalez, Jashyne Daniels, Joshua Johnson, Anthony Joya, Constantin Marin and Desmond Dixon ALDINE

[Back Row] Gary Rebolledo, Armando Desilos, Darius Hicks and Justin Williams; [Front Row] Xavier Castillo, Khoran Brown, Marquis Ladd, Keenan Jackson, AJ Stephens and Christopher Gibson Jr. MACARTHUR

Keenan Wyre, Reggie Berry, Kameron Carter, De’Marion Fearence, Dominick Shambo, Cortney Davis and Stephen Howard Jr. ALDINE DAV I S

Kamren Washom, Kelyn Washom, E’daryus Keene, Kortez Winslow, Cory Huff Jr, Dominic Rue and Brayden Whitehead NIMI TZ

Jashyne Daniels ALDINE

Dominick Shambo ALDINE DAV I S

Braylon Oliphant E I SENHOWER

Justin Williams MACARTHUR

Eutimo Lauderdale, Tyler Hutcherson, Zacchaeus Henry, Darrius Adams, Braylon Oliphant and Omar Solis E I SENHOWER

Brayden Whitehead NIMI TZ

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C H E E R

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NAILING THE

Aldine ISD cheerleaders put in countless hours of work to nail their routines. They bring the spirit all the time throughout the school year at multiple school events. Let’s get excited and meet your 2022-23 Aldine ISD Cheer Squads!

Jayla Neely ALDINE DAV I S

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C H E E R

Ashley Garcia ALDINE

Robert Giden E I SENHOWER

Camryn Glover NIMI TZ

Jaydin Jarreau NIMI TZ

Marlene Guillen MACARTHUR

Sydney Page E I SENHOWER

Jayla Neely, Jovial Clark, Miranda Bell, Brooklyn Thompson and Nevaeh Tellis ALDINE DAV I S

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[Back Row] Ariana Miranda, Natalie Maldonado, Samantha Ruiz and Jazmine Alvarez; [Front Row] Priscilla Perez, Kyrie Cavallini and Ashley Garcia ALDINE

Jayla Trapeigner, Jaya Singleton, Zaria Robinson, Camryn Grover, Laketha Tolbert, Jaydin Jarreau, Talaya Jackson NIMI TZ

Brooklyn Thompson ALDINE DAV I S

Natalie Maldonado ALDINE

Mia Garcia MACARTHUR

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Mya Gomez MACARTHUR

Talaya Jackson NIMI TZ

Samantha Ruiz ALDINE

Miranda Bell ALDINE DAV I S

Morgan Starks E I SENHOWER

Alyssa Galindo, Isabella Moctezuma, Mya Gomez, Isabella Martinez, Aliyah Hall, Jasmin Mendoza, Mia Garcia and Marlene Guillen MACARTHUR

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counting on you, Jess.’ That ’s how I wanted to be looked at.” The goal this season? Dominate. “I want to show people that no matter what age you are, you can accomplish it if you put your mind to it ,” Martinez said. “Me being a sophomore, doing things that seniors do, is something that ’s great.” I want to show people that no matter what age you are, you can accomplish it if you put your mind to it. “ ” Martinez is ambitious. She wants to play college volleyball and has interest in Baylor, Texas, Nebraska and Wisconsin, among others. The best of the best. She hopes to one day play on a national team, like Julio. The Olympics are also a dream. “I believe I can do it ,” Martinez said. “But I’m seeing where God’s taking me. I just have to keep working and working. I know I won’t see progress right away. I have to be patient , focus on what I’m doing and quality over quantity.”

JESSIKA MARTINEZ BELIEVES ANYTHING IS POSSIBLE. THE MACARTHUR SOPHOMORE OUTSIDE HITTER AND MIDDLE BLOCKER HAS SEEN IT FIRST HAND. Her father, Julio, competed with the Cuban National Volleyball team before arriving in Miami 25 years ago by boat. He had a dream of helping people and saw the United States as his ticket. Julio, now a Spanish teacher at MacArthur High and club volleyball coach, produced opportunities and made the most of them. “What really inspired me was my dad, because he used to play,” Martinez said. “I just wanted to follow in his footsteps. Along with my coaches, my dad is the main reason I am where I am today. As years have gone by, I found more passion for the sport , and now me getting to where I am today … if I can do this, a lot of other girls can.” It wasn’t always easy for Martinez. She started playing volleyball when she was eight years old. Three years later, she played club volleyball, but rode the bench. She rarely got a chance to play and watched other girls get their chance to shine. Still, Martinez never got frustrated and patiently waited her turn. It came soon enough. As a freshman last year, Martinez was crucial in helping the Generals to an undefeated District 14-6A Championship. She averaged 2.6 kills per set with 60 total blocks, ranking second and first on the team, respectively. “Knowing what I could do to benefit the team, I was sure I had their backs,” Martinez said. “I wanted to be that person they could count on. When we need a point , you know, ‘We’re

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Tailor Perkins

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graduated five seniors last year, she has more of a leadership role. “Once I don’t see anyone stepping up, I’ll step up,” she said. “I expect people to have high standards and be a leader of responsibility.” I like the movement. I like rallies, I like the action, I like the momentum. It gets me going. “ ” She has a goal of playing at the next level. Prairie View A&M has her attention. “I’m trying to get into college,” Perkins said. “I want to play ball. I really want to play this game seriously.” If she continues to take the game as seriously as her words, who’s to stop her?

DAVIS JUNIOR TAILOR PERKINS IS A YOUNG LADY OF FEW WORDS. Very few. When Perkins speaks, it is direct and concise. There is no waste. Her message is clear, with no room for misinterpretation. A lot like her outstanding play on the court , whether it ’s as a power forward in basketball or middle in volleyball. For instance: Last year, Perkins had a terrific sophomore campaign for the Falcons’ volleyball team, totaling 149 kills, 128 digs, 94 blocks and 50 aces. A Swiss army knife of a talent . Her thoughts? “I wasn’t expecting it. I just went with the flow,” Perkins said matter-of-factly. “I just played volleyball.” And in the ways basketball helps her volleyball game, and vice versa? “It ’s all mental,” Perkins said. “Just keep playing.” Fair enough. Perkins was introduced to volleyball by her cousin when she was seven years old. She was driven by the game’s energy. “I really liked how volleyball was,” Perkins said. “I loved how it is very competitive and I like the movement. I like rallies, I like the action, I like the momentum. It gets me going.” Perkins intends to be a more consistent , more confident player this season, particularly as an attacker. After the Falcons

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NET WARRIors

(THROUGH THE FIRST 30 MATCHES) 426 – Mia Briggs of Nimitz was atop the district in the assists category to begin the year. 351 – Gabriela Ruiz has stepped up for MacArthur in the setter role to start the season. 237 – MacArthur’s Jessika Martinez came in as one of the big hitters for the Generals and has proven it, racking up a big number of kills. 221 – Holly Richardson led Nimitz in kills through the first part of the season 204 – Erin Ferguson has had a solid start at defensive specialist/libero for the IKE Eagles averaging 3.2 digs per set to open the year. 203 – Briggs has been also lethal in digging up the ball for Nimitz to go along with her setting ability. 134 – Karisma Garcia has shared time at setter for IKE and is the team leader in assists. 35 – Natalie Gammage has led her MacArthur squad in blocks to start the season. VYPE by the Numbers

ALDINE ISD’S BEST VOLLEYBALL STARS HAVE BEEN BATTLING IT OUT ON THE HARDWOOD SINCE THE BEGINNING OF AUGUST.

HERE ARE SOME NOTES AND A VYPE BY THE NUMBERS AS DISTRICT PLAY IS JUST A FEW WEEKS OLD WITH TEAMS EYEING PLAYOFF BERTHS COME THE END OF OCTOBER.

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Notes & Tidbits for the 2022 Season

• Vivian Rodriguez took over the Aldine volleyball program this season after serving as an assistant coach. • Aldine Davis is seeking its fourth playoff appearance in five years with a berth this season. • Eisenhower is going after its first playoff appearance since 2017 this year.

• MacArthur entered the 2022 season as Back-to-Back District Champions. This is something that hadn’t been accomplished since the early 80s. • Nimitz entered the season seeking its third-straight playoff appearance, which hadn’t been accomplished since the 2013-2015 seasons. They are seeking their first playoff win since 1995.

Asia Davis ALDINE DAV I S

Natalie Gammage MACARTHUR

[Back Row] Tatiana Rodriguez, Veronica Calderon, Elizabeth Carrizales and Natalie Azimishooshtari; [Front Row] Veronica Cantu and Lauren Brown ALDINE

[Back Row] Giselle Cabieles, Ta’Niya Walker-McClenon, Holly Richardson and T’Asia Green; [Front Row] Mia Briggs, Nathalina Barnes and Malaijha Williams NIMI TZ

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Tatiana Rodriguez ALDINE

Ramiyah Drumgo, Tailor Perkins, Ariel Andrade, and Asia Davis ALDINE DAV I S

Holly Richardson NIMI TZ

Erin Ferguson, Karisma Garcia, Patience Washington, Deja Martin, Melodi Paige, Daisha Williams and Janya Gregory E I SENHOWER

Janya Gregory E I SENHOWER

Renata Rebolledo, Estefania Negrete, Natalie Gammage, Gabriela Ruiz, Jessika Martinez, Nicole Rebolledo and Kayla Jones MACARTHUR

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DISTRICT LEADERS COVERMUCH GROUNDVISITING SCHOOLS ON FIRST2 DAYS OF INSTRUCTION

The start of the school year is always an exciting time, especially for stu dents enrolling in a new school. And it’s also an exciting time for young teachers, especially those who have come to Aldine ISD from foreign countries. In fact, Aldine ISD has hired 42 international teachers, from nine different countries, for the 2022-23 school year. For these 42 teachers, it’s the beginning of a new journey, not only teaching in a new school, but also in a whole new country. All 42 teachers are certified and have been screened and vetted to ensure they are a great fit for Aldine. While the exchange visas used for the initiative are done with the goal of having the teachers here for three to five years, Aldine ISD Superintendent Dr. LaTonya M. Goffney and other district leaders traveled the district, visiting schools and connecting with principals, teachers, stu dents, and parents during the first two days (Aug. 17-18) of instruction in AISD. Dr. Goffney and her team began their district-wide tour early on the first day of school by visiting Aldine ISD’s newest campus, Impact Leadership Academy at Wilson. Impact Leadership Academy is the district’s first all-boys school under Principal Jonathan Kegler’s leadership. Prairie View A&M University is the school’s partner, and representatives from the school and business and com munity members helped welcome Im pact students to their first day of school. After visiting Impact, Dr. Goffney and her team proceeded to Hoffman Middle School to tour Hoffman College Prep. Aldine ISD launched the college-prep program this year. Then it was on to Thompson Elementary School. The next stop on the first-day tour was Avalos P-TECH High School,

where Dr. Goffney met with the school’s new Principal, Ste phen Heady, and also toured the school. Then it was on to Vardeman Primary School, where Dr. Goffney visited some of Aldine’s youngest scholars and 2021-22 Elementary Teacher

Aldine ISD Superintendent Dr. LaTonya M. Goffney looks over a Vardeman Primary student’s work

of the Year Linda Ni gro. The final stop on the first school day was at Francis Elementary School.

The next stop on the second school day was Blanson CTE High School. The second instruction day’s final stop was a trip to the Westside Transportation Department, where Dr. Goffney was greeted by German Enamorado, Aldine ISD’s Executive Director of Transporta tion. She and her team also visited with Westside personnel and thanked them for the critical role they play in safely transporting Aldine students to and from school daily.

On the second day of school, Dr. Goffney and her team first visited Hill Elementa ry School, where they met with Aldine Federation of Teachers representatives and had a photo opportunity with Texas AFT President Zeph Capo and Aldine ISD AFT President Candis Houston. Next, it was on to Garcia Middle School and a visit with new Principal Phoebe Pruitt.

ALDINE ISDHIRES 42 INTERNATIONAL TEACHERS FOR ITS 2022-2023 SCHOOLYEAR

In addition to being certified and qual ified in their areas of expertise, they also provide a cultural experience for their students. This is another aspect in which Dr. Petrea was interested in utilizing the initiative for Aldine. “International teachers help provide a cultural connection to our diverse student body,” said Dr. Petrea. “This program is something we are looking to continue.” Aldine ISD is always looking for more ways to provide a dynamic and fulfilling experience to its students; additionally, Aldine is always looking for the best talent to join the team. Enlisting the help of international teachers is just another way in which this goal is being accomplished.

AISD has worked to ensure the inter national teachers will fully enjoy their stay, in the hopes of retaining them throughout the length of their visas. While the concept of recruiting interna tionally isn’t new, this is the first year AISD has looked to bring in internation al teachers. Led by Dr. Lauren Petrea, Talent Acquisition Director, the program has gone even further in its imple mentation, enlisting the help of retired principals to act as mentors for the new teachers to ensure they acclimate to a new area and country. “We also helped them find an apart ment, furniture and we helped them get a car,” said Dr. Petrea. “We helped them find all the items that they need.”

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C R O S S C O U N T R Y

Jordan Bush ALDINE DAV I S

SETTING THE

Aldine ISD’s best runners have already laced up their shoes this fall as they try and make another run to the District Championship and beyond in 2022. Some faces are familiar from last season, but there are also new ones to get to know. Here are the faces of Aldine ISD Cross Country!

Rigoberto Alvarado-Romero ALDINE

Chimo Espinoza MACARTHUR

Johnathan Doyle NIMI TZ

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[Back Row] Jayda Shelby, Malik Giles, Sharon Dawodu and John Sanchez; [Front Row] Alexandro Vazquez and Bianca Cervantes E I SENHOWER

[[Back Row] David Rojas and Manuel Lopez; [Front Row] Moises Rodriguez, Alysia Doyle and Johnathan Doyle NIMI TZ

Celeste Gonzalez ALDINE DAV I S

John Sanchez E I SENHOWER

[Standing] Celeste Gonzalez, Zi’Aire Jackson, Jordan Bush, Oscar Rodriguez and Victoria Moss; [Sitting] Amaury Pimentel, Alberto Rodriguez and Jayla Biggens ALDINE DAV I S

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Notes & Tidbits for the 2022 Season

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GIRLS TOP FINISHING GIRL RETURNING FROM THE 2021 DISTRICT CHAMPIONSHIP Elda Zuniga , Aldine (6th place – 23:59) TOP 15 FINISHING GIRLS RETURNING FROM THE 2021 DISTRICT CHAMPIONSHIP Alysia Doyle , Nimitz (7th place – 24:21) Maria Gonzalez , MacArthur (9th place – 24:45) Karen Huerta , MacArthur (11th place – 25:51) Joselin Gonzalez, MacArthur (12th place – 26:10) Rebecca Cervantes, Aldine (13th place – 26:12) Samantha Perez, MacArthur (14th place – 26:32) Team-wise, MacArthur girls finished second overall with 64 points and five runners in the Top 20, while Aldine came in third with 76 points and four runners in the Top 20. Nimitz in fourth with 91 points. BOYS TOP FINISHING BOY RETURNING FROM THE 2021 DISTRICT CHAMPIONSHIP: Johnathan Doyle, Nimitz (5th place – 18:55) TOP 15 FINISHING BOYS RETURNING FROM THE 2021 DISTRICT CHAMPIONSHIP: Eduardo Espinoza , MacArthur (7th place – 19:54) Cruz Alvarez , Nimitz (11th place – 20:42) Omar Armendariz, Nimitz (13th place – 20:57) Team-wise, MacArthur brought home yet another District Championship in boys cross country. With 32 points and four runners in the Top 10, the Generals were dominant . Most of those runners are gone to graduation opening the door potentially for Nimitz with three runners from the Top 15 a year ago set to return. Aldine took fourth with 102 points and Davis in sixth with 164 points.

[Standing] Maria Gonzalez, Samantha Perez, Johnny Chavez and Eduardo Espinoza; [Sitting] Chimo Espinoza, Jaime Martinez, Ray Romero, Joselin Gonzalez and Joshua Calderon MACARTHUR

Rebecca Cervantes, Joan Jalomo, Amy Hernandez, Rigoberto Alvarado-Romero and Elda Zuniga ALDINE

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