Southwest ISD Points of Pride
August 22nd, 2023
December 22, 2023
Welcome to Points of Pride, our weekly district e-newsletter featuring highlights from around Southwest Independent School District. If you have a story or highlight that you would like to submit, email communications@swisd.net.
Exemplary Educators: Celebrating the Achievements of Our Teacher of the Year Winners
Congratulations to our 2023-2024 SWISD Teachers of the Year!
Mr. Sandoval, Student Leaders teacher, from Southwest High School was named our Secondary Teacher of the year and Mr. Alvarez-Luna, 4th grad Bilingual teacher, from Bob Hope Elementary was named our Elementary Teacher of the Year. Both were surprised with the announcement today by Dr. Ball, Senior Staff, and Campus Administration. We are so proud of our teachers and value the hard work, commitment, and time that they dedicate to our students. We look forward to celebrating them along with all of our campus Teachers of the Year throughout the year!
SWPD Spreads Holiday Cheer with Festive Breakfast Celebration
SWPD hosted their annual holiday breakfast this morning. This is a tradition that was started in 2016 by Chief Palomo and his staff. They have since continued to cook breakfast for Central office employees. The McAuliffe Mariachi group also performed at the event. Everyone enjoyed the food, music, and time together.
Chief Richard Palomo enjoys hosting this event every year. "We love hosting this event because so many of our district employees look forward to this annual event. This is our way of saying thank you for all the support that the district gives us. Food has a way of bringing people together, especially during the Christmas Season and it brings us so much joy," Palomo Said.
Blue Santa at McNair Middle School
MCN Student Council teams up with the San Antonio Police Department's Blue Santa Project to bring Christmas joy this holiday season.
Elementary Science Fair Showcases Young Innovators
Young minds across the District came together to exhibit their scientific creativity at the eagerly anticipated Elementary Science Fair, showcasing a wide array of impressive projects.
The science fair, held at Southwest High School, provided a platform for budding scientists, ranging from Kindergarten through Fifth Grade, to present their innovative experiments and discoveries. The projects displayed a diverse range of scientific interests from exploring how video games affect the human heart rate to the “Material Magic Show: The Wonders of Decomposition.” The students explored the world around them and applied their knowledge in a hands-on way.
Students poured their curiosity and dedication into their projects, conducting experiments and presenting their findings. “This is a great opportunity for students to showcase their hard work on their projects, as well as continue to drive the importance of science and technology education across the district.” saint SWISD Science Lindsay Buckman. This event not only allowed students to explore their scientific curiosity but also encouraged them to develop critical thinking and problem-solving skills. While the District Elementary Science Fair celebrated achievements, it also emphasized the importance of curiosity and perseverance in the pursuit of knowledge. It provided an excellent opportunity for students to showcase their hard work and dedication to the scientific process.
Judges had a tough job picking winners, as each project showcased creativity and effort. There were proud smiles and a sense of accomplishment displayed among the young participants. The Elementary Science Fair not only highlighted the students' scientific endeavors but also served as a testament to Southwest's commitment to nurturing young minds and fostering a love for science. A few standout projects were recognized for their innovation, thoroughness, and presentation. Here are the top scientists from each grade level:
Kindergarten: Grayson Lockridge from Elm Creek Elementary
First Grade: Julianna Martinez from Sky Harbour Elementary
Second Grade: Aaralynn Degollado from Sky Harbour Elementary
Third Grade: Juan Montemayor from Sun Valley Elementary
Fourth Grade: Klarissa Rivera from Bob Hope Elementary
Fifth Grade: Camila Holmquist from Elm Creek Elementary.
As the award ceremony closed this year's Elementary Science Fair, the spark of curiosity was ignited in each of our young scientists. Although not every student could receive an award, all the students shone brightly, promising a future filled with endless exploration and groundbreaking discoveries in the captivating world of science at Southwest ISD.
Southwest Legacy High School Celebrates Seniors
Senior year stands as a pivotal time, symbolizing the shift from adolescence to adulthood. Crafting memories during this final high school chapter holds immense significance for every Senior Titan, prompting Legacy High School Principal, Roxie Freeman, to celebrate seniors each month.
In November, Legacy Seniors came together for a heartwarming Thanksgiving "Friendsgiving" meal. December promises cozy gatherings of Senior Titans in pajamas, savoring hot cocoa and cookies while enjoying a holiday movie and exchanging gifts. Upcoming events include a January guest speaker-themed "A New Year-New Me," followed by a Senior Valentine card exchange in February. Additionally, there's a day planned for parents to relive the elementary school lunch experience with their seniors. These monthly activities pave the way for the ultimate high school achievement: graduation. Principal Roxie Freeman shares, “I wanted to honor our Seniors every month leading into graduation because I understand how precious this time is and I want our students to smile when they remember their time at SW Legacy.”
For Principal Freeman, it is important to create these memories of senior year because this last year of high school is the culmination of years of hard work and growth. Now is the time for seniors to reflect on their journey and their achievements. Creating memories now helps to solidify the experiences and friendships that have shaped this educational chapter of their lives, marking the highs and lows of high school life. These memories will become part of the narrative that shapes their identity for years to come. Whether it's the thrill of traditional senior events like prom, the annual Fire & Armour Bowl, or one really fun meal with the class of 2024 these memories have contributed to these seniors’ personal growth shaping the person they are meant to be.
Legacy Titan Senior, Andrea Rodriguez says she likes these senior moments because “No one has ever done anything like this for us. It makes us feel special.” Senior Regina Basulto is appreciative of Principal Free because as Basulto puts it, “She (Freeman) makes us want to come to school because she (Freeman) tries to connect with us. The activities bring us closer together.” Titan Senior, Fernando Meza, shares a similar sentiment. “These activities are a good thing. For seniors, it gives us another chance to make memories. The Friendsgiving was awesome, we’re still talking about it,” Meza adds.
Senior-year memories offer closure and celebration, signifying the end of a significant life phase before entering the uncharted territory of adulthood for these students. Cherished memories become a source of comfort and joy, reminding seniors of the bonds and shared experiences within the SWISD school community.
Ultimately, senior year memories are steeped in sentimental value. They represent a formative period, and serve as a testament to the friendships, lessons, and moments that have left a lasting impression. These memories will become treasured keepsakes, carrying the essence of what it means when we say, “We are SW”.
Bright Minds, Big Dreams: Southwest High School's National Honor Society Induction Night!
Southwest High School recently had their induction night to celebrate all of their new members. Family and friends were in attendance to join in on the celebration, while the organization joined forces with local partners to provide food and refreshments. Over 30 new students were inducted in to the National Honor Society and we cannot wait to see all of their success!
McNair's Gift of Hope: Student Council Launches Campaign for Teacher's Sister Fighting Breast Cancer
The McNair Middle School Student Council rallied together to help Lindsey Keeton, the sister of 8th Grade Social Studies Teacher, Mrs. Herring, who was recently diagnosed with breast cancer and just had a newborn recently. The Student Council wanted to really bring some McNair holiday spirit her way and launched a penny drive for two weeks to give back to Mrs. Keeton. Through their efforts, the Student Council and staff members raised over $1,000 and created a gift basket for Mrs. Keeton's newborn baby. They set up a breakfast for Mrs. Keeton to attend and let her in on the wonderful news!
Mrs. Keeton said "It has been a struggle to get through all of this, especially with a newborn, but things like this let me know that our future is in good hands, that kindness still exists, and that we will get through this".
Mrs. Herring, the sister of Lindsey, told the students and staff that their gift meant more than they could imagine by saying "I have been here at Southwest ISD for 17 years and I am blown away and so thankful that there's still kindness like this out there. It reminds me of why we do this."
Our Superintendent of Schools, Dr. Jeanette Ball, also said "This is what makes Southwest ISD so special, because we have students willing to go the extra mile to give back this holiday season".
Finally, Mr. Leondard Villasenor, who helps guide the Student Council, ended the breakfast best by stating "We are a McNair Family, this is what we do".
Joyful Jingles: Elementary Students Spread Cheer with Neighborhood Caroling
This morning, 1st-5th grade students from Indian Creek Elementary spread the gift of music in their neighborhood. The caroling, led by Mr. Menendez, began on the campus field and proceeded to nearby homes to sing Christmas carols to members of their community. Students and teachers enjoyed the event as it brought holiday joy to everyone around them.
Homegrown: Efrain Martinez
We are proud of our SWISD graduates and want to share their great accomplishments. ‘Homegrown' is our weekly segment where we highlight successful Southwest ISD alumni who grew up in the SWISD community. We also look at how SWISD ignited their success, goals, and career. This week we interviewed Efrain Martinez, Ag/Mechanics teacher at SWHS.
Martinez is excited to teach his profession to students. "It's very rare to work in an environment that is my profession and still be able to be a teacher." He also intends to teach students about life outside of the classroom. "The goal isn't for them to become the best welder out there. At the end of the day I really want them to learn characteristics to be a better version of themselves." He has a passion to help his students reach their goals. "You're not alone, you can make it and I am going to help you get her."
If you know of alumni who work in the SWISD district that you would like to nominate to participate in this segment, please email Dr. Sam Ruiz at sruiz9098@swisd.net.
A Light That Will Spark A Lifetime of Selfless Service for Spicewood Park Elementary Student Council Inductees
Monday night was special at Spicewood Park Elementary as eight students were inducted into the school’s student council. In its second year, the student council is led by Ms. Garza who tells Snippets she is proud of the support she’s received from campus Principal Mrs. Velazquez, and Vice Principal Mrs. Angulo, the Administrative sponsor.
Ms. Garza shared, "I feel that having organizations like this at our school is a great learning experience for our students. I felt very strongly about starting this because I believe students can take pride in their school, identify needs throughout the school and their community, and show empathy towards those in need. They will learn life lessons that will last them through the rest of their school career and the rest of their lives."
There was a sense of pride from the parents who were in attendance at the ceremony watching their children light their candles as part of the induction ceremony. The Panthers Student Council inducted their President, Vice-President, Secretary, and five members for the 2023-24 school year consisting of 5th and 4th graders.
Congratulations to all the students, their parents, school administration, teachers, and staff for a successful evening and the start of great things to come at Spicewood Park. Thank you for taking the time to speak with Snippets this week, and as always we are Southwest.
SWISD SAPP Program Receives Gifts Just In Time For Christmas
Sounds of the Season: Resnik Middle School Band Spreads Holiday Cheer Across SWISD!
On this episode of Beyond The Arches we highlight the Resnik Band as they perform holiday classics for students and staff across SWISD! This episode is sure to bring you all the holiday cheer!
SWISD Teacher Feature: Gilbert Sanchez
"On this week's Teacher Feature, we visit Southwest High School Cosmetology teacher Deborah Doege as she shares her experience making connections with her students that lead to their success."
If you would like to suggest a teacher for us to feature, you can email your nominations to communications@swisd.net with the subject line: Teacher Feature.
Soccer Showcase & What's Next For SWISD
San Antonio Stock Show and Rodeo Discounts
If you are looking to go to a Stock Show & Rodeo event, please visit the link provided. Each ticket purchased through the given link and unlock code will positively impact the show’s sales goals for scholarships for the youth of Texas. Offers are valid now - Tuesday, February 6, 2024
Tis the season to spread cheer and joy! Wishing you all a fantastic holiday season filled with warmth, laughter, and precious moments with your loved ones. We love sharing your photos, stories, and videos and we can't wait to make more amazing memories together in the new year. Just a heads up, our newsletter will take a little break but will be back in action come January, ready to keep sharing all the amazing things are staff and students do!
Sincerely,
SWISD Communications