CISD Informed — Oct.27, 2023
Dear CISD Community,
I want to begin by extending my gratitude to those of you who attended our State of District event this past Tuesday night. Your presence and engagement were truly appreciated. During the event, we had the opportunity to share a wealth of information that showcased our vision statement, "You Matter," in action. This vision extends to every facet of our community, encompassing our students, teachers and staff, our parents, our community and business partners, as well as our dedicated volunteers. Your active involvement embodies the spirit of our vision and makes a significant impact on our district.
I would like to extend a special thank you to Canyon Ranch Pack 873 for posting the colors and leading us in the pledge of allegiance. Divya Ghanta, your incredible rendition of our national anthem was truly moving. Thank you for sharing your talents with us. The CHS Red Jackets provided a warm welcome to all attendees, and the students from KCBY worked tirelessly to capture the event for everyone.
I appreciate Board President David Caviness for sharing the Board of Trustees priorities and plans to engage with Texas lawmakers during the current Special Legislative Session. I am also grateful to Cottonwood Creek Elementary Principal Dr. Andra Penny and Wilson Principal Cooper Hilton for their insights into the Legislative Session from their perspective as leaders in the Texas Elementary Principals and Supervisors Association (TEPSA).
For those who couldn't attend the event, don't worry. We will have a video available from KCBY shortly so you can catch up on all the valuable information shared. You may also find a copy of the presentation shared at https://5il.co/27wzh and the flyer that was handed out at https://5il.co/27x00.
Now, let's switch gears and talk about the weather. We may not always control the weather, but it certainly keeps us on our toes. The good news is that although the weather may have changed our plans, we are still very much looking forward to engaging with our community at our upcoming Community Tailgate event. Thank you everyone for your flexibility and support with accepting these changes for tonight.
Transitioning to another collective engagement topic, our Strategic Planning process is entering its next stage, and we're seeking parent, student and community volunteers to serve on action teams. Your input is invaluable, as we continue to shape the future of our district. Please see the article below for more details on how you can get involved.
Once again, thank you to our incredible community for engaging with us in so many meaningful ways. Your involvement truly makes a difference in our shared goals for CISD.
Sincerely,
Dr. Brad Hunt
Superintendent
#CatchUpWithHunt: New Tech High @ Coppell Senior Charity Showcase
Tune into YouTube each week to #CatchupWithHunt as Superintendent Dr. Brad Hunt shares stories from our district. This week, you can catch up with Dr. Hunt as he interviews New Tech High @ Coppell seniors Gabriel Baquero, Tejas Bhatia and Maanas Rastogi about the Senior Charity Showcase and the school’s Fall Festival and Haunted House on Oct. 28.
TEA Lawsuit Update: Judge Blocks TEA from Releasing A-F Ratings
The Texas Education Agency cannot release new A-F accountability ratings for the state’s public schools due to a temporary injunction issued on Thursday, Oct. 26, by a Travis County court judge. This decision is a result of several school districts, including Coppell ISD, joining an accountability ratings lawsuit against the TEA.
Oct. 27 Football Game Start Time Moved to 5 p.m.
Tailgate Time Remains at 5 p.m. and Moved to CHS Commons
Due to predicted storms, the start time of the Friday, Oct. 27 home varsity football game vs. Flower Mound has been moved up to 5 p.m., with gates opening at 4 p.m. Despite this change, the CISD Community Tailgate will proceed as planned from 5 to 6:30 p.m., albeit with a new location in the CHS Commons/Cafeteria area, accessible via the Auditorium entrance near the CHS Arena. See the map to the side for details (click to enlarge). For Tailgate attendees, you're welcome to bring your Dickey's Barbecue meal into the game or eat it in the CHS Commons. Please ensure you have your meal receipt since Tailgate meals were pre-purchased and won't be available for on-site purchase. Cowboy Fight Never Dies! Go Cowboys!
Oct. 23 Board Briefs Include Demographers’ Report and Strategic Planning Update
CMS West Theatre Teacher Franci Hazleton
Team Texas Debate Members and Coach
Middle School Science Project Among Top 300 in the Nation
Former CMS North 8th graders Charvi Vohra and Hao Wei had their 2022-2023 Science Fair Project selected as among top 300 in the nation
During the Oct. 23 Board meeting, Trustees heard the Demographer's Update on CISD enrollment, as well as received an update on the district’s Strategic Planning process and an update on the district’s Emergent Bilingual Support and Engagement. There was also a Public Hearing to discuss CISD's state financial accountability rating known as FIRST. During the Board Awards, CISD Trustees recognized CMS West Theatre Teacher Franci Hazleton for being the 2023 recipient of the Educator of the Year Award for K-12 from the Texas Educational Theatre Association, CHS seniors Anushree De and Vikram Mohan for being selected for the Team Texas Debate Team and Debate Coach SunHee Simon for being chosen as a Team Texas Debate Coach, and former CMS North 8th graders Charvi Vohra and Hao Wei for having their 2022-2023 Science Fair Project being among top 300 in the nation.
Other Board Action and Consent Items Highlights include:
The Board approved a Proclamation regarding the Special Legislative Session stating that the Board supports legislation that aligns with the following priorities:
Opposes the diversion of funds for K-12 public schools, including new funds, for school voucher, tax credit, or charter school programs until the State of Texas funds public schools above the national average.
Advocates for the establishment of a fair, transparent, and comprehensive accountability system that looks beyond high-stakes multiple-choice exams to meaningful assessments that have value for students, parents, teachers, and community stakeholders with advance notice of implementation.
Increases the basic allotment to account for the increase in overall educational services to students, additional funding for special education programming, staff pay increases, and fully funds the implementation of state-mandated school safety standards.
Trustees approved the purchase of eight student buses from Longhorn Bus Sales, LLC, for $139,370 each for a total of $1,114,960 using remaining 2016 Bond dollars for the purchase;
The Board approved the purchase of two crew cab landscaper trucks from Rush Truck Centers of Texas for $79,900 each for a total of $159,800 using remaining 2016 Bond dollars for the purchase;
Trustees approved Ideal Impact for Replacement of Energy Management Systems at campuses not covered in the initial Ideal Impact Agreement;
The Board approved changes to DC (LOCAL) - Employment Practices;
Trustees approved the Financial Report for September 2023
The Board approved the Budget Amendments for October 2023; and
Trustees approved the Region 10 Education Service Center Multi-Region Purchasing Cooperative Interlocal Agreement for the Purchase of Child Nutrition Foods, Wares, and Supplies.
Strategic Planning Action Teams Seeks Volunteers
Parents, High School Students and Community Invited to Apply by Nov. 9
As the next part of the CISD Strategic Planning process, the district is seeking parents, high school students and community member volunteers to serve on an Action Team. The Strategic Planning Action Teams will work on one specific strategy related to one objective that falls under one of the seven Community-Based Accountability System (CBAS) pillars. The pillars are:
Student Learning and Progress
Student Readiness
Engaged, Well-Rounded Students
Safety and Well-Being
Professional Learning and Quality Staff
Community Engagement and Partnerships
Fiscal and Operational Systems
The Action Teams will meet six to seven times for one to two hours each meeting. Additional meetings may be needed. The Action Team leader will work with the team to determine the meeting times.
If you are interested in serving, visit go.coppellisd.com/23ActionTeamApplication to apply by Nov. 9.
Checkmate for Coppell High School Chess at the State Championships
In a chessboard showdown at the State Championship, the Coppell Chess Team made their moves with precision and emerged with several tournament championships.
12th Grade: State Champion Sharvesh Deviprasath
Deviprasath played like a grandmaster, achieving a perfect 6/6 score. His strategic brilliance was truly a game-changer.
11th Grade: State Champion Team Coppell High School
The CHS team of juniors earned a coveted team title. The lineup included: Aniruddha Kumar, who scored an impressive 4.5/6 with a tactical finesse that was unmatched. Nayan Gandra, who secured a solid 4.0/6 score, demonstrating remarkable board control. Lorenzo Rodriguez, matching Nayan with a commendable 4.0/6 performance, showcasing their collective strength.
10th Grade: State Champion Team Coppell High School
The sophomore champions showed great success on the board. The team included Amay Babel, whose strategic prowess earned him a respectable 3.5/6 score and Liam Li, contributing with a solid 2.5/6 performance.
Band Wins Area Competition and Heads to State
Tooting our own horn — Congratulations to the Coppell Varsity Band who won the Area Championship last weekend for the third time and for the second consecutive year. The consecutive Area Championship is a first in the Coppell Band history. The Band heads to state next week, as they continue their march to success.
Band Presents Show of Shows Supporting Local Homeless Shelters on Oct. 28
Coppell High School Band is partnering with bands from Flower Mound, Hebron and Keller for the "Show of Shows" on Saturday, Oct. 28 to benefit local homeless shelters. In lieu of admission, CHS Band is accepting donations of socks, toiletries, and other essentials. Donation boxes will be available on site at Buddy Echols Field. Gates open at 5 p.m., and the performance schedule is as follows:
- 5:30 p.m. — Flower Mound
- 6:00 p.m. — Hebron
- 6:30 p.m. — Keller
- 7:00 p.m. — Coppell
Early Voting for the Nov. 7 Election Ends Nov. 3
Early voting for the Nov. 7 Election in Texas lasts until Nov. 3. Visit the Texas Secretary of State's website www.votetexas.gov to find your nearest polling stations and details about early voting.
Lee's Ahiri Neeli Draws Way to Victory in Trinity River Authority Art Contest
In a colorful triumph, Richard J. Lee Elementary's 5th grader, Ahiri Neeli, has claimed the top spot in her grade level and is the grand prize winner of the Trinity River Authority's 2023 Art Contest. It's a masterpiece of an achievement! This year, the TRA had a record-breaking 1,941 entries from nine counties, and it's a testament to Neeli’s boundless creativity that her work shone through. The first-place winners of each grade received art aprons and colored pencils, alongside their certificates, greeting cards and customized calendars adorned with their splendid artwork. As the grand prize winner, Neeli, also received an Amazon tablet to complement her already impressive first-place bounty. Neeli's art teacher at Lee is Audrey Allen.
Celebrating National Principals’ Month
October is an extra special month in CISD as we join the nationwide celebration of National Principals Month. Our district is taking the opportunity to express our heartfelt appreciation for the exceptional leaders who guide our schools with dedication and vision. To make this occasion even more special, we've been actively engaging with our community through our Facebook page, inviting everyone to share why they love their school's principal. It's a chance to recognize and celebrate the incredible work these educational leaders do every day, shaping the future of our students. To join in the celebration and share your reasons for admiration, visit www.facebook.com/coppellisd, and share why you "heart" your school's principal. It's an excellent way to show our principals just how much they mean to our school community.
Spotlight on STEAM at Wilson Elementary
The Code for STEAM at Wilson Elementary is Robots
In a recent STEAM (Science, Technology, Engineering, Arts and Math) lesson at Wilson Elementary, 5th grade students showcased their coding prowess in a robot-infused experience. Under the guidance of STEAM Teacher Raquel Cantu, they embarked on a coding journey where the students executed the code through their robot companions. Splitting into groups, these young coders faced the exciting challenge of selecting from three distinct types of robots, each requiring its unique coding structure to navigate the pathways they had engineered. Together, they worked with the precision of seasoned programmers, commanding their robotic performers to navigate the intricate routes using force and motion. In this STEAM lesson, the code for success was executed via robots, transforming our learners into coding virtuosos.
42 Coppell Singers Earn Chair in the Region 31 Honor Choirs
Unity Through Sports — Unified Bocce Ball Competition
In an inspiring display of unity and inclusion, CISD middle school and high school students in the CISD Transitional Pathways, Structured Learning and Active Learning programs participated in a wonderful athletic event. Thanks to the dedicated efforts of organizers Kristen Yarborough, Tosha Salerno and Taylor Mounce, alongside Coppell Special Olympics representatives these students have been paired with their peers for a friendly competition they've been practicing for all year. The goal of this event, which is part of the CISD Unified Sports initiative, is to provide our young athletes with the opportunity to participate alongside their peers, furthering the spirit of inclusion in our district. Coppell ISD's commitment to Unified Sports helps classify us as a Unified Champion School district, promoting unity both in school and sports. This event is just one of the many Unified Sports initiatives our district provides, with basketball coming up in the spring.
Special Edition of #CatchUpWithHunt at Unified Bocce Ball Competition
Check out this Special Edition of #CatchUpwithHunt as Superintendent Dr. Brad Hunt stops by the Special Olympics Bocce Ball Tournament that took place at the CHS Field House last week. The video features CMS North Transitional Pathways Teacher Kimberly Politz, Executive Director of Intervention Services Stephanie Flores, Speech Therapist Taylor Mounce and students Reagan Robinette and and Franco Haro.
Growing Goodness: Garden Greens Bloom in CISD
In our very own CISD school gardens, the seeds of a healthier tomorrow are being sown by our Child Nutrition team, school teachers and our students. From garlic planting to delightful Bok choy sampling, our students are cultivating a love for fresh produce. The highlight — serving up crisp lettuce salads that are a hit among our young gardeners. As the season progresses, we're eagerly awaiting the arrival of cabbage to our garden feast. This initiative not only nourishes our students' bellies but also nurtures their understanding of nutrition and the joys of gardening. It's a 'growing' success story that's as fresh and vibrant as the vegetables planted and cultivated by the students themselves.
Spellbinding Adventure: CMS East Conjures Up a Memorable Harry Potter Experience
On Thursday, Oct. 26, the enchanting Harry Potter Experience cast its spell upon CMS East, whisking students away into the magical world of Hogwarts. The Great Hall and Common Room of the Library buzzed with excitement as students embraced their inner wizards. The event offered a diverse range of activities, from herbology to potion-making, trivia, spell casting, an escape room (which wasn't actually a room), quidditch, table games, Bertie Bott's Jelly Beans and more. While in the Great Hall, students delighted in butterbeer and Honeydukes Sweet Shoppe treats. A Photo Booth captured treasured memories, and the Forbidden Forest provided thrilling encounters with magical creatures. The self-paced stations, guided by helpful CMS East professors, allowed students to earn house points for their houses, fueling friendly competition and camaraderie. It was a day of spellbinding fun and fellowship, leaving students with cherished memories of their adventures in the wizarding world.
Education Foundation GIVE4GRANTS Are Live: Donate Today
This year, 21 educators in the Coppell Independent School District have submitted 22 grant requests to improve their classrooms at 11 campuses. Grants requested include funds for science, technology, engineering, arts, and math (STEAM), suicide prevention, fine arts, history, culture, outdoor learning, audio/visual, makerspaces and more. Everyone is invited to view and choose grants to support this fall by visiting: www.give4grantscisd.org.
CEF Superstar Program Accepting Teacher and Staff Nominations
The Coppell ISD Education Foundation would like to recognize CISD educators and staff for doing great things! CISD is full of dedicated and hardworking teachers, administrators, and support staff who often go above and beyond. We would like to give you the opportunity to shine a spotlight on these CISD employees by nominating them to be a Super Star. Any parent, middle school student or CISD employee can nominate a CISD employee at their elementary or middle school. Deadline to nominate a staff member is Nov. 19. To nominate a CISD employee visit: www.coppellisdef.org/superstar.
CISD parents are invited to the kick-off meeting for the Coppell Gifted Association (CGA) on Nov. 13, 6:30 p.m. to 7:30 p.m. at the Cozby Library. Brian Timm, CISD Director of Mathematic and GT, will be one of the speakers. We will also discuss new programs like Leadership 101, Shark Tank Entrepreneurship and robotics, while relaunching favorites like the Creative Writing Contest. CGA is open to ALL students K-12, students do not need to be identified as gifted and talented to participate in CGA.
Swing into Support: Coppell High School Golf Team Tees Up Golf Cart Raffle
Teeing off for a great cause — the Coppell High School Golf Team Booster Club is taking its fundraising game to the next level, aiming to "drive" support for this growing program. In their quest to improve indoor practice equipment and secure funds for entry and travel fees for tournaments, they've partnered with Kandi America to offer the ultimate prize in high school raffle contests — the Kandi Electric Kruiser 4P, a decked-out golf cart valued at $13,125, proudly showcasing Coppell's colors. Golf enthusiasts and supporters can chip in by purchasing raffle tickets through Oct. 31, with a chance to win this incredible prize. The winner, who will be announced on Nov. 3, is in for a hole-in-one experience! To join in the raffle, click here.
Calling All CISD Juniors: Apply for Student iLead Program by Nov. 1
CISD is excited to invite all 11th grade students to apply for the Student iLead Program. Topics covered include personal leadership skills, youth advocacy, service and volunteerism, local government, and business growth and development. To be eligible, you should be in good academic standing, enthusiastic about boosting your leadership abilities, and have obtained permission from your parents and school principal. Be prepared to commit to the program's schedule, as attendance is required at all sessions. Remember, not everyone who applies will make it into the Student iLead program, so make sure to submit your application by Nov. 1 at 4:30 p.m. For more details, including the application checklist, program dates, and the application itself, visit www.coppellisd.com/page/student-ilead. If you have any questions, reach out to Angela Brown, CISD’s Chief Communications Officer, at abrown@coppellisd.com.
CHS9 Theatre Presents Too Much Light Makes the Baby Go Blind Oct. 26-Oct. 28
CHS9 Theatre presents "Too Much Light Makes the Baby Go Blind" — 30 plays in 60 minutes – at CHS9 on Thursday, Oct. 26, Friday Oct. 27 and Saturday, Oct. 28. All performances are at 7 p.m. The performance is in the CHS9 Band Hall at1301 Wrangler Cir., Coppell, TX 75019. Enter at CHS9 Auditorium Entrance (North facing parking lot on Wrangler Cir.). To purchase tickets, visit https://chstb.booktix.net.
New Tech High @ Coppell Fall Festival and Haunted House on Oct. 28
Get ready for a fantastic Fall Festival hosted by New Tech High @ Coppell students. This event promises to be an evening of fun and family-friendly activities for the entire community to enjoy! With a lineup featuring games, timed events, trunk or treat, and mouthwatering food, mark your calendars for Saturday, Oct. 28, from 5:30 to 8 p.m. The event does include a Haunted House experience that is recommended for middle school students and older.
Girls Soccer Hosts Trunk or Treat Event on Oct. 29 at the CHS Field House
The CHS Girls Soccer Team is lacing up their cleats for their first ever Trunk or Treat event on Oct. 29 from 6 to 8 p.m. They're aiming to score big in both fun and fundraising and would be thrilled to have the community's support. The entry fee is $10 and can be purchased HERE. With creative trunks and games that will keep kids of all ages entertained, it's bound to be a spooktacular event. Join in for a kickin' good time and help Girls Soccer reach their goal.
Woven Health Clinics for Adults to Be Held at the CORE in Coppell
The Woven Health Clinic will offer a number of free clinics for adults in Coppell in October and November. For a list of dates, please visit https://www.facebook.com/wovenhealthclinic/events.
Oct. 27 — Annual Community Tailgate at 5 p.m. in the CHS Field House
Nov. 5 — Daylight Savings Time Ends
Nov. 13 — Regular Board Meeting at 6 p.m.
Nov. 20-24 — Thanksgiving Break
City of Coppell
Are you ready for a hauntingly good time? The City of Coppell's Halloween events include library pumpkin voting, family movie fun, trunk-or-treating, spooky stories, board games, and more! Don't be a scaredy-cat, check out all the spooky fun! It's all treat, no tricks!
Wize Computing Academy
Wize Computing Academy
CODING & ROBOTICS PROGRAM
Offers Online & AFTER School Classes
- Project-based approach to teaching designing, robotics and coding to learners Ages 4-16 years old.
- Small-group, award-winning instructors.
- Prepare for coding & robotics competitions like the First LEGO League. Register for a Free trial class
www.wizeacademy.com/free-trial
Questions? info@wizeacademy.com
469-471-8180
Coppell ISD Education Foundation
The Coppell ISD Education Foundation exists to fill the gap in funding from the millions of taxpayer dollars the state takes back from the district each year. CEF generates and distributes funds to CISD for educational and motivational solutions needed to meet the district's mission of excellence in education.