Bearcat Blast

Bearcat Blast • November 17, 2022 • AledoISD.org
November 2022 Bearcats of Character Honored
Aledo ISD Board of Trustees members honored 11 students during their regular board meeting on Monday, Nov. 14, for exhibiting the Positivity Project - or P2 - character trait of Integrity on their campus.
P2 says that INTEGRITY really boils down to always doing what is right, even when nobody is watching. People with integrity practice what they preach and maintain a consistent pattern of behavior aligned with their values. Integrity is closely aligned with the character strengths of honesty and authenticity. People with integrity tell the truth and have alignment in their thoughts, feelings, and actions.
Congratulations to the following students:
Aledo High School: Jerry Olazaran, 12th grade
Jerry Olazaran shows incredible integrity and leads by example at all times. Band director Jake Albin says, "He acts the same in band and out of band…his character is simply outstanding. He says YES SIR for everything. There is never a day that he isn’t approachable, teachable, and respectful! Jerry is the type of kid that elevates the students around him. Kids WANT to be just like him. He treats EVERYONE respectfully. He is uplifting, he is genuine, and he is fair minded. I trust Jerry completely. He is exactly the kind of leader that we want in our program…a true servant for others!" Jerry is a phenomenal representative of Aledo High School and our Aledo community.
Aledo Learning Center: Skylar Haley, 10th grade
Skylar was nominated for this month’s Bearcat of Character award by several of her teachers. She demonstrates integrity in her daily interactions with staff and peers. She is honest about her work and is reflective about how her actions impact herself and those around her. Skylar shared a story during P2 guidance about a time when she could have taken something, but she chose not to. In sharing her story, she showed her integrity from her past actions and in being an example for other students on campus.
Daniel Ninth Grade: Mesoma Emeka Okoye, 9th grade
Mesoma Emeka Okoye is a very bright student who always displays integrity. She comes in, puts her phone in the holder (without being told to), and gets busy on her bell work. She then helps get her table going as well. When we are doing individual Canvas assignments, I never have to question if Mesoma is doing her work because she is almost always the first to be done and usually offers to help others—a true example of integrity in the classroom. I have also witnessed Mesoma holding the locker room door open for others in the morning, showing her compassion for her teammates/friends. Ms. Staats, English teacher, enthusiastically agrees with Coach Martinez. She shared that she often observes Mesoma helping her classmates with work and is always very encouraging. She is kind in the way she talks to everyone and is always so positive. She is making an impact daily and shows others, through her words and actions, what it looks like to live a life of integrity. Mesoma is an outstanding student!
Aledo Middle School: Wyatt Dorsey, 6th grade
Wyatt Dorsey is an outstanding individual. One of the things that I most admire about Wyatt is his determination to better himself in every way possible. Wyatt is a leader in and outside the classroom. He leads by example, always doing what is right and never faulting. Those around him notice this and follow suit. I know that Wyatt will continue to achieve great things as he has already set himself up for success! - Mrs. Kuhns (6th grade RLA Teacher)
McAnally Middle School: Josiah Mendoza, 8th grade
Josiah embodies the true definition of integrity; doing the right thing when no one is looking. Josiah stands out as a silent leader. He is the last to eat his food everyday during his lunch time. He waits in the line, until all of his peers have gone before him, then gets his tray of food and heads to his seat to enjoy his lunch. After lunch, Josiah makes the conscious choice to stay after all the other students have left the cafeteria and help clean up and straighten chairs so that the next grade has a clean and organized cafeteria to enter for their lunch. We also see Josiah working extremely hard in all of his academic classes and athletics. He asks for extra help, attends tutorials and puts in extra hours of work to ensure he is being successful. He puts his very best effort that he possibly can into everything he does; just because it’s the right thing to do. McAnally wants to recognize Josiah for going above and beyond when no one was looking, but what Josiah doesn’t know, is that we are looking, and we sure are proud.
Annetta Elementary School: Tessa Harvey, 4th grade
Tessa's teacher, Mrs. Rutherford says, "Tessa exemplifies what it means to have integrity. Her honesty, truthfulness and sincerity make her a leader in our class. She is reliable, dependent, trustworthy, and a friend to all. If you ever need a helper, a friend, or someone you know you can trust, you seek out Tessa. We are so thankful for everything she brings to our class and school."
Coder Elementary School: Savy Link, 2nd grade
Savy Link exemplifies the character trait of integrity in everything she does. She is honest, trustworthy, and always does what is right. She is a leader in the classroom and is admired by her peers and teachers for her respectful and positive attitude. She is kind to others and sets the standard for the qualities every Coder Cat should represent, said Paige McCarthy, 2nd grade teacher. Emily Hearne, Art Teacher, said, "Savy is the epitome of integrity. She is kind-hearted, honest, and always puts her best foot forward in everything she does. She is a great leader and a wonderful role model to her peers!
McCall Elementary School: Victoria Monterroso, 5th grade
Victoria is very conscientious of doing the right thing. She works hard and is truthful in words and actions. She also has an uncanny way of holding others accountable for integrity without alienating others. Her actions are always carried out with kindness and integrity. We are honored to have Victoria represent McCall this month!
Stuard Elementary School: Finn Durnil, 4th grade
Finn shows integrity in all that he does. When nobody is looking, he continues to do what he should do because he knows that this is right. He is honest and forthright, even if it means he has to admit he made a poor decision, which is rare. Finn truly shows his character with his actions. His classmates can count on him to make good decisions and lead with integrity.
Vandagriff Elementary School: Caleb Altendorf, 5th Grade
Caleb is always doing the right thing even if no one is watching. He is honest and a great team player.
Walsh Elementary School: Straus Mernik, 5th Grade
Straus comes in the classroom everyday with a positive attitude and a smile. He consistently tries his best in all that he does. His work ethic is amazing and such a great example to his peers. Additionally, Straus chooses to do the right thing even when no one is looking. I have seen him pick up after others, help a student who was injured and needed assistance in the classroom, and always is kind to his peers. He embodies the characteristic of integrity with his honesty, respect for others, and his actions each day!
Got Door Prizes? Award Our Bearcat Staff!
The Aledo ISD is continuing the longstanding tradition of a Holiday Come-and-Go for our entire staff just before the winter break. As a part of the Come-and-Go, we will be drawing for door prizes! We are seeking prizes with a $50 value or higher (gift cards are a great option!) for this all-staff holiday celebration. Last year, we had donations from local businesses, parents and families, and community members!
Want to donate a prize? Fill out this form: https://bit.ly/2022HolidayGiveaway
Questions? Contact Mercedes at mmayer@aledoisd.org. Please fill out the form and drop off donations to the Aledo ISD Administration Building by close of business (4:30 p.m.) on Tuesday, Dec. 13, 2022!
Parenting University: Building a Culture of Connectedness, Part 3!
You're invited to attend the next FREE Aledo ISD Parenting University: Building a Culture of Connectedness, Part 3 with Danny Ross, M.Ed., CSC, LPC-S, NCC.
Aledo ISD is excited to welcome back Danny Ross for the third time as we continue to explore building a sense of belonging through dignity for all members of the school community.
- 6 p.m.
- Thursday, Dec. 1, 2022
- Aeldo Learning Center Traning Rooms
- Pizza provided by Aledo PTO
- AHS National Honor Society Studetns will provide childcare (and pizza)
Nutrition News!
Smiling faces loving their Turkey & Dressing Lunch!
HAPPY THANKSGIVING from the Child Nutrition Department!
Celebrations: We're excited to recognize these AISD students and staff members!
Congrats to the November 2022 Transportation Employee of the Month!
Name: John Torres
Position: Special Needs Bus Driver
Years of Service with Aledo ISD: 5 years
- Tell us about yourself (family, hobbies, interests): I enjoy going to movies with grandkids; love going to church with family; being with family is the best; visit museums and see history with family.
- What do you like the most about your job? I like seeing the children get on the bus the first day of school. Their faces are lit up with wonder - radiant!
- Tell us one memorable moment that happened on your bus route: A kindergarten student helped me find my way on a new route.
- What is the most exciting thing on your “bucket list?" Parachute from a plane
- What is the place in the world you most want to visit? Israel
Aledo Reads a huge success! Thanks to all of our guest readers!
Coming up in Aledo ISD - Mark Your Calendars!
Bearcat Football Gameday vs. Lubbock Cooper
Class 5A Division I Area Round
Aledo vs. Lubbock Cooper
7 PM
Friday, Nov. 18
Mustang Bowl, Sweetwater
Tickers for HOME SIDE ONLY: https://www.aledosportsnetwork.com/HTtickets; Tickets also sold at the gate: $6 adults; $4 students; District and THSCA passes accepted.
Radio: 92.1 Hank FM
Photo credit: DNG student Breleigh M.
Special Programs Parent Training Series - Session 2
Join the Aledo ISD Special Programs department in their Special Programs Parent Training Series on November 29! This session will cover educational rights and ARD & IEP expectations. Aledo ISD has partnered with Partners Resource Network for this parent workshop.
- 5:30-7 p.m.
- Tuesday, Nov. 29
- AISD Administration Building - Walsh & Louden Training Rooms
Parenting University Returns Dec. 1!
You're invited to attend the next FREE Aledo ISD Parenting University: Building a Culture of Connectedness, Part 3 with Danny Ross, M.Ed., CSC, LPC-S, NCC.
Aledo ISD is excited to welcome back Danny Ross for the third time as we continue to explore building a sense of belonging through dignity for all members of the school community.
- 6 p.m.
- Thursday, Dec. 1, 2022
- Aeldo Learning Center Traning Rooms
- Pizza provided by Aledo PTO
- AHS National Honor Society Studetns will provide childcare (and pizza)
Aledo Growth Committee Community Meetings Dec. 6 & 8
Join members of the Aledo Growth Committee for community meetings to learn about the work they have been doing since August, to hear information on a potential bond package, and to give input and feedback on potential bond package options. These are duplicate meetings so it is not necessary to attend both.
- 5:30 p.m.
- Tuesday Dec. 6, or Thursday, Dec. 8, 2022
- Aledo ISD Administration Building Walsh/Louden rooms
To learn more about the Aledo Growth Committee, go to www.aledoisd.org/agc.
National Art Honor Society Art Auction Dec. 8
The Aledo National Art Honor Society invites you to the Second Annual Christmas Art Auction featuring live auction of student artwork, silent auction of a variety of items, festive student-made items for sale and light refreshments.
- 6:30-8:30 p.m.
- Thursday, Dec. 8
- Daniel Ninth Grade Center Cafeteria
AMS Theatre presents The Wonder of Christmas
The Aledo Middle School Theatre department presents The Wonder of Christmas! AMS Students and staff attend free!
- 7 p.m.
- December 9 and 10
- Aledo Middle School
- Adults $10 and kids 12 and under $5 at the door (cash only)
P2 Character Trait of the Week: Gratitude
This week's P2 Character Trait of the Week is Gratitude!
Remember P2 has a site set up for families called P2 for Families. It is password protected, but the password is simply P2. This site has all of the Character Cards that we will share each week, plus related and inspiring videos as well as questions for families to discuss around each character strength for ALL 24 character strengths AND broken down by grade bands (PK-2; 3-5; 6-8; 9-12).
See the Gratitude Character Card below, and consider using one of these Table Talk questions to start a conversation with your child about Gratitude!
GRATITUDE TABLE TALK for your FAMILY
Grades Pre-K-2: What are some things, people, or places that make you happy?
Grades 3-5: How does gratitude impact our relationships?
Grades 6-8: As a family, do you feel you do enough to show gratitude to each other?
Grades 9-12: How can showing gratitude to those who have had a positive impact in your life be a way to give back to them?
The East Parker County Library Needs Your Help!
CALLING ARTISTS OF ALL AGES: The library needs a logo! Please submit your original artwork that is creative, simple, and you feel best represents the East Parker County Library. EPCL is a non-profit library that serves the residents of Aledo, Willow Park, Hudson Oaks, the Annettas, and the surrounding ETJ areas of Ft. Worth within the AISD boundary.
Requirements:
● Should have the words “East Parker County Library” included in it.
● Must be original artwork. Any medium may be used.
● Anyone may participate!
● Format should be a jpeg, png, or pdf. 300 ppi max.
● Entries should be sent to epclibraryboard@gmail.com by December 12, 2022.
● Please include your name, email, and phone number with your submission.
● Once received, entries become and remain the property of the EPC Library.
Thank you for supporting your local library! Please share with others!
PTO hosts Bearcat Beginnings!
Are you new to Aledo ISD? Or have you been here a while and want to make new friends and help us welcome new families to the community? Come join us at our next Bearcat Beginnings event on November 29 at 6:30 pm in the Aledo Learning Center!
Bearcat Beginnings is a brand new extension of PTO. Our mission is to make all feel welcome in our district and community It’s also to help families get dialed in with what’s happening in the district and around our community. We’d love for you to join us for our next family mix and mingle! Check the included invitation for all the info.
Can’t come this month? Keep an eye out for our next event in January.
Aledo AdvoCats Angel Project Underway - Support the Angel Project 2022!
Help AEF Support Aledo ISD Teachers!
Thank you 2022-2023 Bearcat Backers!
Aledo ISD and the Aledo Education Foundation are partnering once again for the Bearcat Backer program, and we'd love your support!
As our district is #GrowingGreatness through exceptional experiences that empower learners for life, we are committed to fostering relationships and partnerships with our outstanding businesses and organizations to help support our Bearcats. Your partnership provides a direct investment and benefit to our Bearcat students and staff.
If your business is interested in joining our Bearcat Backers program, please visit our Bearcat Backers webpage that includes sponsorship levels as well as a commitment form to fill out.
Thank you to our 2022-2023 Bearcat Backers!
Gold Level Sponsors
First Financial Bank
TWFG Insurance Services - Christi James
Silver Level Sponsors
Bigfoot Ink/Ecoimprint
SkinMD
Bronze Level Sponsors
Brandon Swain REALTOR
Brookshire's Grocery Company
Bryan Insurance Agency
Camp Fire First Texas
Khill Shot Photography by Keith Hill
Lynch Legacy Realty Group
Paradigm Wealth Management - Christopher Roberts
Reading Friends Aledo
Slade & Nash
Aledo Independent School District
Email: communications@aledoisd.org
Website: https://www.aledoisd.org/
Location: 1008 Bailey Ranch Road, Aledo, TX, USA
Phone: 817-441-8327
Facebook: facebook.com/AledoISD
Twitter: @AledoISD