High School(s) Attended, and optional Graduation Year:
Water Valley

Tell us about your College(s) and Studies 
I began college at ACU studying history and playing basketball.  I then transferred to Hardin-Simmons my sophomore year where I continued to play basketball and worked towards my degree in education.  I met my beautiful wife, Micky, at a FCA meeting.  Micky was an incredible basketball player - a much better player than me -  and was inducted into the Hardin-Simmons Athletic Hall of Fame last year. 

After a few years of coaching and teaching, I decided to go back to school to work on my Master's Degree at Sul Ross University.  A few years after receiving my Master's, I decided to go back to school again and obtain my Superintendent's Certification through Angelo State University.

Current Position at BISD and former position, how long have you been with BISD, and tell us about a typical day at work:
Ballinger ISD Superintendent - began May 1st, 2010 

I would say that there really isn't a typical day at work for a superintendent.  Each day I return numerous phone calls and e-mails.  The list could go on and on, but here are a few things:  working on the budget, attending various meetings, coordinating the many district activities, overseeing the many district projects that we have, keeping up to date on the latest news from TEA and the USDE and preparing materials for board meetings.  A large percentage of my job is communication - communication with the public, with the board, with each employee in the administrative office, with each campus administrator and with each stakeholder in the educational community.  This constant communication is critical to help carry out the district goals and objectives.  It does take a significant time commitment, but I truly believe that the most critical element of a successful school district is healthy communication.

For Teachers, what made you decide to become a teacher, for other employees, what made you decide to work for the school:
I have always enjoyed working with kids.  In high school, I was a PAL - which is an organization within schools that helps mentor kids.  In college, I worked as a youth minister at First Baptist Church, Sterling City for a summer.  I also worked at TBarM Christian Sports Camp in New Braunfels during college. 

Previous employment (other schools, etc…)
Before Ballinger ISD, I was employed by Anson ISD for 8 years.  At Anson, I was the girls basketball coach/girls athletic coordinator for 2 years, I served as an interim Middle school principal for a semester, three years as the high school principal and three years as the elementary principal. 

Before Anson, I was employed by Memphis ISD as the head girls basketball coach.  Memphis is located in the panhandle between Childress and Clarendon. 

Before Memphis, I was employed at Abilene Wylie ISD as a junior high football and girls basketball coach.  Of course, this was back when Ballinger and Wylie were in the same UIL district.  So, I had the opportunity to coach against Ballinger teams.  We always knew that when we played Ballinger, it was going to be a hard fought game. 

What do you like most about your job?
I like that every day there is a new challenge - an opportunity for success. 

Also - although at times, it is not always easy, I do enjoy problem solving.  I enjoy sitting down with someone and working through a problem trying to find a win-win solution.  This is certainly not always possible and it is not always a quick fix, but I enjoy listening to others and trying to work through a solution that is what is best for our kids.

What do you do when you’re not at work? Hobbies, etc…
Spending time with my family.  I love sports, traveling and history.  I do also like to read when I have time.

Tell us one or more of your favorite memories of your own school days
One of my memories that is tied to Ballinger is that I played my last high school basketball game here at Ballinger High School.  It was a playoff game against Robert Lee.  Aaron Hood, the superintendent at Robert Lee, was on the team for Robert Lee.  Unfortunately, I fouled out (which was not uncommon for me) and we lost the game and my high school basketball career ended right here in Ballinger.  Maybe not my favorite memory, but certainly one that is tied to our school.

Roxan Bowman
 

Roxan Bowman is in the spotlight this month.  Roxan is a algebra teacher at Ballinger High School.  In addition, she is the coach for the UIL math teams, HS UIL Coordinator, HS Cheerleader Sponsor, and District Testing Coordinator.  Mrs. Bowman states “ I don’t think that anyone working in a small school and particularly a small school with high expectations has a typical day.  Everyone takes on additional tasks to ensure that our students are offered a wide range of opportunities.”  Throughout the day, she works on testing and depending on the time of year, cheerleaders and uil.  She has her Algebra classes and UIL teams and then tutorials, meetings and finishing up the day and preparing for the next.

Roxan is born and raised in Stratford, TX.  She graduated from Stratford High School and went on to attend and graduate from Texas Tech, with a BA in Mathematics.  She decided to teach so she could share her love of math with her students.  She feels that math is really constantly used in life, whether its reasoning and problem solving skills or actually application.  Her first teaching job was in Lamesa.  She was hired one week before graduation from Tech.  After that she went on to teach at Lubbock Cooper and a year at Olfen before coming to Ballinger Jr. High.  She taught Special Ed for a year before moving over to Ballinger High School.

When not working at the school, she spends most of her free time with her three daughters.  She also enjoys cooking and working on her house.  When asked what her favorite memories from her own school days, she said that spending time with her friends.  “Stratford is a small town with “nothing to do” so on Friday and Saturday night we would “Drag Main”.”

Carlton Buchanan
 

I have taught the Discipline Alternative Education Program in Ballinger since 1995.  My assignment in DAEP is very challenging requiring knowledge of multiple subject areas.  Students elementary though grade twelve that have committed serious offenses are assigned to my school.  My students are taught self-discipline, and responsibility.  I push them to raise their grades to a higher level. I stress that good citizens must be on time.  I insist that students perform given tasks to the best of their abilities, exhibit good manners, and follow all rules to earn their way out of DAEP.

It is very rewarding to me when my former students are successful back at their regular campuses or after graduation. 

I started my career at 5A Plainview, Texas as a high school Health, P.E teacher, and coach in 1977.  I've also taught at Miles, Tulia, Matador (Motley County), and Shamrock.  I served as the head football, track coach, and athletic director for two schools a total of eight years.  I have also taught K though 12 Health & Physical Education, Drivers Education, and monitored Odyssey students.  Besides being a head football coach, I have been an assistant for boys and girls track, football, and, basketball.  I coached junior high football in Ballinger for one year which concluded 19 years of coaching.  I have a 100% win record in varsity boys basketball having only coached and won a single game at that level.  I've coached several athletes to regional and state in track.  As a football assistant at Plainview we were in the playoffs seven years in a row. 

As a teacher I like working with kids of all ages. My motto is, "Ridding the world of ignorance one lesson at a time."  My favorite teaching assignment

is elementary P.E.   A student once asked me where I worked after a fun day

of P.E. class.  I replied, "This is my job, I work here at the school."  She was obviously confused at the thought that teaching P.E. could really be a job.  I also like teaching basic math, and writing skills.  While working with students they will eventually reach the 'aha moment'. The very moment in time when they finally get it.  That's what makes the job worthwhile.  In

33 years of teaching I have worked with thousands of kids.  By coincidence I run into former students so many times when I travel. I will pull into a gas station or enter a restaurant and I will hear someone call out, "Coach Buck."  I love to get a big hug or a brisk handshake and get an update on their lives. Sometimes former students will drop by my home or call and that's really special. 

 I was born in Uvalde, Texas then lived in four different towns before entering the first grade.  We were homeless for a short time after losing our home and belongings in the Ozona flood of 1954.  My dad's job in oil exploration required us to move often.  I lived in seven states and twenty-three additional towns grades one though twelve.  I never remembered my home phone number because it changed with each move.  I was always behind in school lessons and many of the "teachers" couldn't care less.  Some of them fondly called me oilfield, and trailer trash.  As a student I felt worthless, dumb, and was very shy.  I never raised my hand hoping I wouldn't be noticed.  I wished I were invisible and preferred to be alone.  In the sixth grade a P.E. teacher beat me with his fists.  He commanded the class to get in line, shut up, and face the front.  I ran to the line as ordered and was violently attacked for no apparent reason.  Witnesses later stated it was a brutal unprovoked attack.  I came to on the floor with a bloody nose, and broken glasses.  The arrogant man offered no explanation for attacking me when questioned.  It is necessary to include my personal school experiences to convey my understanding of troubled, shy, economically disadvantaged, struggling students. If I had been asked, "What do you want to be when you grow up?"  Teacher wouldn't have been on my list. 

A few of my teachers were helpful, and caring like my first coach Mr. Moore..

He urged me to play football in the ninth grade.  I had just moved to Marion, Kansas and had never played organized sports.  Mr. Moore was a kind and patient gentleman that boosted my self-esteem.  I was beginning to understand football then we moved. "Hello," Vernal, Utah, Pampa, TX, and Elk City, Oklahoma.  When football practice was to begin my sophomore year at Elk City my Mom insisted I join.  I refused assuming we would be moving within a few weeks. (We stayed in Elk City until ten weeks into my Junior year of high school.)  Mom forced me into our car and she drove to the football field.  I wouldn't talk to the coaches so she got a coach to come and talk to me.  If my Mom wouldn't have forced the issue I am not sure how I would have turned out.  Playing football changed my life in a positive manner and opened doors I never dreamed of having a key to as a child. 

In 1970 I managed to graduate from Elk City High School.  My senior year began in Ardmore, Oklahoma, back to Elk City, followed by Lamesa, Texas, and finally back to Elk City.  I played football and threw the shot-put and discus in track. I excelled in track placing first in most of the invitational meets while throwing for Lamesa then Elk City.  I placed second in shot-put at the Oklahoma State track meet.  I had no plans to attend college but I tried out as a walk on for the football team at Southwestern Oklahoma State University.  I earned a starting spot as a freshmen by the third game of the season and was granted a full athletic scholarship for my efforts. My hall of fame coach Otis Delaporte once told me I was the best football player he had ever coached.  This is a huge source of pride for me because I earned it. I started every game for the next four years at SWOSU and received a college diploma. 

NFL scouts became interested in me as a sophomore in college.  I expected to sign as a free agent with Dallas my senior year but to my surprise the Cleveland Browns drafted me.  I was the first player in the history of SWOSU to be drafted by a professional football team.  I started several preseason games at defensive tackle for Cleveland.  The press and coaches were favorable of my efforts but I was cut just before the regular season.  The head coach said I wasn't big enough at 6'3" 235 for my position.  After Cleveland I spent a short time with the Edmonton Eskimos. I then signed a three year contract with the New York Giants.  I spent limited time with each team but learned advanced football fundamentals from top notch coaches..

After a soul searching decision I concluded my football career at New York about a month after reporting to camp.  I returned home, worked at various odd jobs, then decided to become a coach. 

Before teaching I worked as a farm hand, carpet layer, gas station attendant, oilfield roustabout, seismic phone placement engineer, welder, cement truck driver, heavy equipment operator, greens keeper, and various other odd jobs.  In 1973 I married Cheryl (Joy) Buchanan. Cheryl has taught in the Ballinger system for over twenty years.  I have two children Caralee a medical transcriptionist and Chana a pre-k teacher both graduates of Ballinger. I like to work in my yard, tinker in my shop, hunt, fish, ride motorcycles, play with my dogs, and just enjoy being outdoors.  I watch the History, Travel, and Discovery Channels on television.  I root for Texas Tech and have high hopes for the Cowboys.  I was the color commentator for KRUN Bearcats Football a number of years.  I have worked as an advertising specialist in three different venues.  One of my passions is writing about adventures I have experienced while hunting and fishing.  Several of my articles were published in Texas Fish & Game magazine.

Arthur Ramos

Arthur Ramos is in the BISD spotlight.   He is the 8^th grade science teacher, as well as, 7^th and 8^th grade PE coach.  He has held these positions for the past two years.  Before working at Ballinger Jr. High, he was at Santa Anna ISD, he was 7^th and 8^th grade science teacher and also coached football, basketball, and head track coach. 

Mr. Ramos is from Stamford, TX.  He graduated from Stamford High School and attended Angelo State University.  He majored in Kinesiology with a minor in Biology.  He decided to become a teacher because he was inspired by a past biology professor, Dr. Strenth, his dedication to his students and making science fun.  Mr. Ramos strives to make science not “just another class” but something that is inspiring to his students.  One of his favorite things about his job is experiencing the students enjoyment during laboratory experiments. 

When not teaching, he enjoys home improvement projects and his saltwater aquarium.  One of his favorite memories from high school is the 1998 State track meet, he was on the 1^st place 1600m relay team, as well as, winning the overall state track meet team title.

Tara Drennan

Tara Drennan is in this weeks BISD Spotlight.  It is her first year with BISD, as an elementary special education resource teacher.  Prior to working at Ballinger Elementary, Mrs. Drennan worked for Bronte ISD as a high school and Jr. High special education resource teacher.  A typical day for Mrs. Drennan is anything but typical, which is one of the reason her job is so interesting.  Her schedule begins with 3^rd, 4^th, and 5^th grade reading and language arts which then becomes 3^rd, 4^th, and 5^th grade math class.  After that, she has 2^nd grade language arts, followed by lunch and 1^st grade math and 2^nd grade reading.  Any free time she has is spent grading papers, checking on student’s class progress, or preparing for Special Education meetings.  Even though her day is extremely busy, she enjoys it and believes that everyone’s goal is the same.  Everyone wants the students to succeed and grow. 

Tara is from Clayton, New Mexico.  She graduated from Clayton High School and continued her education at Clarendon Jr. College, in Clarendon, Texas.  She received an Associate of Applied Science Degree.  She then attended West Texas A & M University, in Canyon, Texas.  She received a Bachelors of Science: Agriculture Business and Economics.  In 2008, she got her teacher certification in education: Early Childhood-4^th grade and Special Education Early Childhood-12^th grade.  When asked what made her decide to become a teacher, she stated; “When I first went to college I wanted to be an Agriculture Teacher or a 4-H agent, after I finished two years of college and transferred to WT a&M, I discovered that WT did not offer that degree.  So I made a change to Business and Economics.  After college, I became that 4-H agent and loved it.  The kids were great and so excited to learn new things.  I still had the desire to become a teacher.  After marriage and two kids, I decided to return to school and get my education certificate.  I love being around students and watching them grow with knowledge.  When that light comes on that they now know why or how something works or that fact that they will still use this after school, it is amazing.  When they feel or see success is when I feel and see success.” 

When Mrs. Drennan is not working, she likes spending time with her husband (Charlie) and their three kids: Cash 6, Keni 3, and Deesa 3 months.  They love to fish and go camping at the lake.  They also enjoy going on Jeep 4x4 rides.  Some of her favorite memories from high school are being a New Mexico State FFA Officer and traveling with the team.

Pasty Dierschke

Patsy Dierschke is in the BISD Spotlight this week.  Mrs. Dierschke is the PEIMS Operator/Registrar at Ballinger Elementary School.  As PEIMS Operator, Mrs. Dierschke is responsible for the attendance reports and grade reports on the elementary campus. She enjoys all the responsibilities that go with her current position, as well as, all the people that she works with.  

Mrs. Dierschke was raised in San Angelo and graduated from Central High School.  After graduation, she attended Angelo State University.  Before coming to Ballinger Elementary, she worked at Goodfellow AFB in Civil Service.  She also worked for the Social Security Administration. 

When not at work, Mrs. Dierschke likes to read, travel, and play with her grandchildren.  One for her favorite memories from her own school days is, “ I was a Tex-Ann Leader and we got to perform at all the sporting events.  As individual leaders we were responsible for choosing our music and making up the routines the group performed.  Also, driving up and down the “drag” (Sherwood Way) most days after school and most of every weekend (gas was at its highest 21 cents a gallon- $2.00 would do you for the whole evening).  If you had curlers in your hair while you drove on the drag, it usually meant you had a date that night.  That was a big deal way back when…”

Priscilla Jones
 

After spending over 30 years working in the private sector, Priscilla Jones has not only returned to her first true passion of teaching, she has also returned home.  Ms. Jones teaches BCIS I & II to 88 students daily with each student having different skill sets and abilities.  Mrs. Jones is also the Investment Club advisor.  This club currently has 18 students that meet on a weekly basis to learn more about business and how to invest in the stock market.  Before coming to BHS, Mrs. Jones had taught BCIS at Howard College and at Angelo State University.  She has also taught computer classes at continuing education courses for adults in the private sector, but states that it is much more enjoyable and satisfying at the high school level.  She states that “hands down, the students are the best.  They are respectful and are willing to learn new concepts.  I would like to praise the parents for caring enough to instill responsibility and character in her students”.   

Ms. Jones was born in Kerville, but grew up in Ballinger where she graduated from BHS in 1976.  Some of her fondest memories of attending BHS included participating in the band and being a twirler her junior year.  Another fond memory was participating in and being named the runner-up in the Ms. Merry Christmas contest.  After graduation, she attended Angelo State University where she received her Bachelor of Music Education degree with a secondary art certification in 1981.  She was also a member of the Golden Ram Band for four years.  In 1999, Mrs. Jones returned to ASU and earned her Master’s Degree in Business.  After a successful career as an accountant with GTE, later known as Verizon, she took an early retirement and accepted the job as an Electronic Medical Records manager with Shannon Clinic.  From there she went into marketing with Town & Country Food Stores and had a very successful career until Town & Country’s sellout to Susser Food Stores.  And that brings her back home doing what she loves to do, teach.  When asked what made her want to become a teacher, Mrs. Jones stated that “I am dedicated to the belief that the students of today are the future of tomorrow and I would like to know that students are given the best education and information possible in order to succeed”.  

One of Mrs. Jones’ most favorite hobby is watercolor painting.  She also enjoys working on computer applications (Facebook) and being with friends and family.  Mrs. Jones has been married for 33 years to Charlie Jones, also a BHS graduate.  They currently live in San Angelo and are in the process of selling their home in order to move back to Ballinger.  She states that she can’t wait until they are able to build a home in Ballinger and start being a part of the community once again. 

Mr. Alan Wilson

Alan Wilson is this weeks BISD Spotlight recipient.  Coach Wilson, as he is known to his students, has been teaching at BISD his entire career.  This marks his 10^th year with the school district.  He teaches 8^th grade Social Studies and coaches at the Jr. High and High School level.  His day starts very early and usually ends whenever the last kid has left the building and headed home.  He can put in anywhere from 8 to 13 hours a day but he says it is worth it because it is all for the kids.

 Coach Wilson grew up in Ballinger and graduated from Ballinger High School.  He then attended ASU and graduated with a Kinesiology degree, with a minor in history.  After college, he began his career at BISD.  He has taught 6^th and 7^th grade Social Studies, PE classes, and JH athletics, before moving on to the HS ranks.  Teaching seemed to be a natural choice for Coach Wilson, both of his parents were teachers, spending their entire careers at Ballinger.  His dad taught for 38 years here and his mother taught for 25 years.  He was also active in sports, playing football, basketball, and running track.  Those experiences made him want to become a coach.

 When asked what he enjoyed most about his job, Coach Wilson said “What I enjoy most about my job is getting to enter act with our students on a daily basis, in both the classroom and on the athletic fields.  Just seeing the progress that they make from the first day that we have them in class or in athletics to what they become by the time they are seniors and graduating from high school.  I also enjoy getting to teach and work with the people who taught me and molded me into the person that I have become.”

Coach Wilson enjoys spending his free time with his wife, Janet, his family, and especially his young daughter, Ashtyn.  His hobbies include hunting, working on his family ranch, playing sports and cards, and watching movies.  Some of his favorite memories from school are spending time with his classmates, football and basketball games, and his teachers. 

Mrs. Victoria Fritze

Victoria Fritze finds herself in the BISD Spotlight this week. Mrs. Fritze is in her first year, as a math teacher, at Ballinger Jr. High School. She is teaching 8th grade math and 7th grade honors math. A typical day involves a full day of math classes. She greets her students everyday at the door with a high five or a handshake and some sort of activity to begin the class. She likes to make her lessons hands on before they start paper pencil practice. She only has 45 minutes with each class so her day really goes by fast and she has so much to teach the students.

Mrs. Fritze was born in Graham, TX and raised in Hearne, TX, where she graduated from Hearne High School. After graduation she attended Blinn Colleg and then transferred to Sam Houston State University, in Huntsville, TX. She graduated with a Bachelor of Science in Academic Studies, emphasis in 4th - 8th grade math. She taught 6th grade math at Bryan ISD for 4 yrs and before that she worked at Coufal-Prater Equipment (John Deere store) as a computer specialist. She decided to go into teaching because she wanted to show kids how to improve their math skills. When asked what she liked most about her job, she said watching students succeed and feel better about themselves.

When not teaching, Mrs. Fritze likes to spend time with her family, play games and watch movies with her daughter. She also likes to scrapbook and read. One of her favorite memories from high school is “receiving 2nd team all district softball pitchr my sophomore year, that was the highlight of my career (after that in the next season a ground ball hit a pebble or something and put me down with a huge black eye that was swollen shut for a week. I never played the same after that). Also walking across high school graduation as the Valedictorian of my class, but I didn’t like having to give a speech.”
 

Ms. Cinnamon Carter

     Cinnamon Carter is in the spotlight this week.  Cinnamon will be starting her 6^th year as a teacher at BJHS.  She teaches 6^th grade reading and 6^th, 7^th, and 8^th grade PE.  A typical day for Cinnamon is extremely busy.  She starts her day off with 7^th and 8^th grade PE, then a couple of reading classes, followed by another PE class, this time 6^th graders.  She has lunch and her conference, and then finishes the day with reading classes.  After school, she either has tutorials or spends her time working on the Indian project.  
     Mrs. Carter is from San Angelo and graduated from Lakeview High School.  She attended Angelo State University and graduated with a B.S. in Early Childhood Education with music minor.  She had originally planned to be a choir or music teacher because she had been involved with music program in Jr. High and High School.  After the first semester of college, as music major, she realized it was not the right career path for her.  She decided to rethink her major and ended up pursuing a teaching degree and kept music as her minor.  Her fist teaching job was in Fredericksburg, in kindergarten and she was the HS cheer sponsor.  Next, she was in Coleman for 9 years, as a 6^th grade Math/Science, English/Science teacher and JH cheer sponsor.  She then spent one year at Deleon, where she taught 6^th grade Reading/Science and Gifted and Talented 6, 7, and 8.
     When asked what she liked most about her job, Mrs. Carter said “I love the long-term relationships that you can make with your students.  I have been teaching 17 years and have former students in their mid 20’s that still call me on a regular basis.  I love being a part of the lives of the kids while they are in my class and being able to call them friend long after they leave my class.  That is kind of my way of knowing I am doing at least one small thing right, if they still consider me important enough to keep around for a few more years, once they don’t have to call me Mrs. Carter anymore.”
     Mrs. Carter is married to Mike Carter, who is the new principal at the high school.  She has two sons, Lane, who will be a sophomore, and Luke, a 7^th grader.  In her free time, Cinnamon loves to spend time with her family.  She also loves to work in her yard and decorate her house!  She is often asked to help with friend’s houses, as well as, various rooms at the school.
     High school holds many great memories for Mrs. Carter, she said Lake View has always been know for its sense of community and “Chief Pride” and you could feel it everyday when you walked down the halls with your friends.  She participated in volleyball, basketball, track, cheerleading, student council, National Honor Society, Choir and she loved every minute of those days.

Ms. Tammy Chamberlain

  Tammy Chamberlain is in the BISD Spotlight this week.  Her current position at BISD is fourth grade English/Language Arts teacher.  She has been with BISD for the past six years.  Before that, she taught for 11 years at Frenship ISD and 11 years in Plainview.  A school day, for Ms. Chamberlain, starts with getting all the kid breakfast.  She then teaches 2 ½ hours of reading/writing, another 1 ½ hours  of reading/writing, followed by lunch and 1 more hour of reading/writing.  After that, she teaches 30 min of social studies, conference, and then the kids school day ends.  She then finishes up the day and gets ready for the rest of the week.  Some of her favorite things about her current position are hanging out with the kids and watching them learn and grow and the teachers at BISD are the best and most professional people that she has ever had the privilege of working with.  She thinks there is no better feeling than knowing that you have helped a child learn something new. 

  Ms. Chamberlain was born in Sweetwater, TX and raised in Hobbs, NM.  She graduated from Hobbs High School.  After graduation, she attended Texas Tech University.  She received her Bachelor’s Degree in elementary ed. With bilingual certification.   She received her Master’s Degree from Wayland University in Plainview in general elementary education.  She decided to become a teacher after working in a summer recreation program for two summers while in Hobbs.  She was in high school at the time and fell in love with working with children. 

  When Ms. Chamberlain is not at work, she likes to drag race and play golf.  When asked what her favorite memories of her own school days, she stated the following “My favorite memories are of my sixth grade teacher, Mr. Thomas.  He was the first teacher I had who seemed to LIKE hanging out with kids.  We did lots of cool art projects involving pottery and paper mache, and because he was a man, we learned a variety of active games during P.E.  Because I was (and still am) a bona fide tomboy, I was in hog heaven!  When I became a teacher, I wanted to emulate him -- I wanted my students to know that I truly care about them.”

Mrs. Shelly Holden

Shelly Holden is in this weeks spotlight. Mrs. Holden is a 2nd grade teacher at Ballinger Elementary. She teaches language arts, reading, phonics, and social studies. She has been with BISD for seven years. The first two as a special ed para and the last five as a teacher. When asked what she enjoys most about her job, Mrs. Holden stated " I enjoy coming in and seeing my students smiling faces and knowing that today is another opportunity for us to learn something new together."

Mrs. Holden was born in San Angelo, Texas. She graduated from Mineral Wells High and then attended Angelo State University. She earned a Bachelor of Science with ECH-4th from ASU. She decided to pursue teaching because she enjoys working with children and she felt like she could help children learn. Before teaching, she worked at Ballinger Clinic.

Mrs. Holden is active with the Awanas Program at First Baptist, serves on the baseball board, and coaches softball. She also likes to read and garden, in her free time. One of her favorite memories from her own school days is "The day I got into trouble with my teacher for coloring a banana purple during art, I was devastated and cried horribly. Another teacher found me crying and explained that it was okay to have my own ideas and think outside the box."
 

Mrs. Elizabeth Garza

Elizabeth Garza in in the BISD Faculty spotlight this week.  Mrs. Garza is Ballinger Elementary Principal’s Secretary, a position she has held for the past 5 years.  A typical day for Mrs. Garza is extremely busy.  Answering the phone, keeping the books, and taking care of students are just some of her many responsibilities.

  Mrs. Garza’s hometown is Winters, TX.  She graduated from Winters High School and went on to attend West Texas State University.  When asked her favorite thing about her job, she said “the children.”     In her free time,  she loves to read and spend time with her children and family. 

Mrs. Kim Buxkemper

   In this week’s spotlight, we have Kim Buxkemper.  Mrs. Buxkemper is currently teaching 3^rd grade Math and Science at Ballinger Elementary.  She has previously taught high school art, junior high science and computers, and 4^th grade science and social studies.  Deciding to become a teacher was an easy decision, she wanted to be involved with her children’s education and her husband was a coach, so it seemed like a good fit.  When asked what she liked most about her job, she stated “The people I work with and the children.” 

   Mrs. Buxkemper was born in Brownfield, Texas but grew up in Ballinger. She graduated from Ballinger High School and then attended Angelo State University.   She majored in Biology, with a minor in Art.  Before teaching, she worked at the Ballinger Ledger and a savings and loan company.  These days, when Mrs. Buxkemper is not teaching, she likes to play tennis, sew, read, and do home repair. 

     A favorite memory of her own school days was that she loved science and woodworking class.  She also enjoyed knowing all of the teachers because the school was so small.  Most students did not leave campus during lunch so everyone enjoyed visiting and being together during that time.

Mrs. Mary Lee Pelzel

Mary Lee Pelzel is our spotlight teacher this week.  Mrs. Pelzel has been teaching second grade at Ballinger Elementary School for her entire career.  She loves working with second graders and states “they are wonderful to work with and are so much fun.”  She teaches Math, Science, Language, and Handwriting.  A typical day starts out with breakfast, then PE and music.  The kids are put into a Math/Science group and a Arts/Social Studies group with Mrs. Pelzel teaching the Math and Science groups for 2 hours each.  In between, there is homerooms for language, handwriting, lunch, recess, and story time. 

When not grading papers, some of her favorite hobbies are reading, doing yard work, or watching movies.

Mrs. Caroline Toliver - Interim Assistant Superintendent

  Caroline Toliver is in the BISD spotlight this week.  Mrs. Toliver is the Interim Assistant Superintendent.  A position she has held since August of 2008.  Most days, she oversees federal and state programs for BISD.  When asked what she liked most about her job, she stated “Just knowing that the district can pride itself in having the best staff teachers and administrators a community can have.  Being in this position, I have learned that the money entrusted to this district is spent with one question in mind, “What is best for our kids?”  This is something to be proud of!” 

  When not working, Mrs. Toliver enjoys spending time with her family at the lake, playing board games, attending 4-H or sports activities or just hanging out.  She also likes to sew, cook, and scrapbook when time allow.  Asked to recall a favorite memory from her own school days, she said the all her favorite memories are tied to extracurricular activities that she was involved in, from student council, band, livestock shows, and Future Homemakers of America.  She also remembers having the best teachers, some of which are still teaching at BISD.

Mr. Kelly Monse - BISD Maintenance Director

Kelly Monse is in this week's BISD Spotlight. Mr. Monse is the BISD maintenance director. A title he has held for the past 3 years. He describes everyday as a new and unique challenge. The maintenance department takes care of all the campus grounds, which is over 100 acres, all sports events, ceremonies, custodial duties, and the heating and cooling systems. They are available at a moments notice if any one of the BISD employees, students, parents, board members, or citizens has a need or concern. He said the most surprising thing about his job is all the activities that take place at BISD, even during the summer months, there is always something going on.

Mr. Monse is originally from San Diego, California but proudly calls Ballinger home now. His two daughters went to school here and he came to appreciate the enthusiasm and pride that comes with being a Bearcat. He attended Valhalla HS in El Cajon, California. After graduating high school, he moved to Ballinger. He has attended several extension courses at A&M for different careers. He has worked in the oilfield and then spent 11 years working for the City of Ballinger, in the water department. He remembers being one of only 2 employees in that department. They had to read all the meters, fix leaks, ran the sewer department, and anything that needed doing. During the winter of 1983, the coldest on record for 50 years, fixing water leaks was not much fun!! After that he worked at Muellers for a couple of years, then he owned and operated Agri-Plex Heating and Air for 10 years. He states “I learned something from every one of these jobs, and I get to use that knowledge daily. Luckily, this position became open at just the right time for me. I really love it here. My wife also works at the Elementary, so it’s nice that we get to share some days off together.”

When asked what he likes most about his job, Mr. Monse said that everyday he gets to work with great people. The staff, faculty, and students are wonderful, polite, and courteous. He enjoys seeing the school shine and watching the Bearcats play at home! In his free time, he and his wife enjoy riding his motorcycle. He restored a 1970 Harley Davidson Shovelhead and he is a member of the Big Country Chapter or the Phoenix Motorcycle Club. He enjoys the opportunity to ride with them and help with all the charity events.

Mr. Brian Arrott - Elementary School Principal 

     Brian Arrott is in the BISD spotlight this week. Mr. Arrott is the elementary school principal. This is his first year at that position. One of the most interesting parts of his current position is there is no typical day. Some days are spent in and out of classrooms, walking the halls, and attending various meetings. The most important thing is doing whatever will make a difference in a child’s education and life.

     Mr. Arrott was the assistant principal at the high school for two years prior to moving to the elementary campus. He began his career in education at Edison JH in San Angelo where he taught Special Education. After that, he taught at Bronte for five years then moved to Sweetwater where he taught 5th grade. He also worked at Texas State Technical College as a Special Populations Coordinator and Director of Developmental Studies. When asked to recall a favorite memory from his high school days, he remembered a trip to Washington D.C., which took place during the summer of his junior year. His principal and sponsors arranged for four kids, from their group, to present a wreath to the Tomb of the Unknown Soldier at Arlington National Cemetery. He said that was something he would never forget.

     Mr. Arrott was born in Ballinger. He graduated from Bronte High School and then attended Texas Tech University where he earned a Bachelor’s degree. He received his master’s degree from Angelo State University. He decided to pursue a career with BISD because of the wonderful community and school district. It was a place that he and his wife wanted to raise their children. When not at work, he and his family love to travel. He stated “We missed two Tech games this past year. I guess we will have to make them all so that they don’t lose any next year.”
 

Mr. Jamie Rouse - Assistant High School Principal

  This weeks BISD spotlight recipient is Jamie Rouse.  Mr. Rouse is the Assistant Principal at Ballinger High School.  Before coming to BHS, he worked for a combined 13 years at Miles ISD, Lincoln Jr. High, and Grape Creek ISD, he taught Music, One Act Play, and Character Education during his tenure with these schools.  In his current position, Mr. Rouse duties include discipline, attendance, coordinating On Line Learning classes for Jr.’s and Sr.’s through Western Texas College.

  Mr. Rouse was born in San Angelo and graduated from Lake View High School.  He attended ASU, where he received his bachelor and master degrees.  He decided to become an educator because he enjoys being around students and hopes to have a positive influence on each student that he teaches.  When not at school or a school related event, he likes to spend time with his wife and children.  He also likes to play guitar and sing.

Mrs. Paula Frerich - Elementary Paraprofessional (Aide), Special Education

Wall, TX native Paula Frerich spends her working days at Ballinger Elementary School. Born in San Angelo, Paula calls Wall her hometown even though she graduated high school in Garden City in 1982.

Mrs. Frerich has been with BISD for 12 years. The past 4 years, she has been a full time employee. The prior 8 years were spent as a substitute teacher.

A typical day for Paula starts off when she rides the bus with one of her students. After she takes care of the student's breakfast needs, she heads down to the 4th and 5th graders to work with them in math, science, and social studies. Toward the end of the day, Mrs. Frerich will head over to the pre-K and then back over to her homeroom to finish up the day and get ready to take her bus student home.

When not at work, Paula enjoys volunteering, helping out at her church, interior design, and art projects. She also spends time helping out her daughter Shelby, at Apples n Spice Florist. Following Bearcats sports is another interest that keeps Paula busy. She feels a great pride in BISD and our great school system.

When ask what she enjoys most about her job, Mrs. Frerich had this to say:
"I love my job. God has blessed me with a wonderful husband and children. I stayed home with my children while they were young and stayed very involved in their lives. They are all grown, graduated from college and now on their own. This opened the door for me to help more children. I have the opportunity to work with students that have a tough time with things that most of us take for granted. I try to see life through their eyes and give them the encouragement and hope they need to meet their goals, no matter how big or small they may be. I believe we should all have the opportunity to be all we can be inside and out."

A special memory from her own school days: "I have always loved art. I remember being in the third grade and my teacher asked for volunteers to decorate this large bulletin board in our new school. She chose a small group of students and I happened to be one of them.  It was awesome and we had so much fun."

This week's BISD Faculty Spotlight recipient is Chelsey Densman. Coach D, as she is known around campus, is in her 3rd year at Ballinger ISD. She teaches 6th grade PE and 7th grade Technology Applications. In Addition, she is the head softball coach, girls JV basketball and Varsity girls basketball assistant coach.

A typical day for Coach D, starts at the Jr. High with a study skills class and two technology classes. The second half of the day, she has a big PE class of 6th grade girls, one more study skills class, and then HS athletics. Once the school day is finished, she has softball practice or a game. A usual day ends around 7pm. If she has a game, it will be much later.

Chelsey was born in Abilene, TX and calls Dudley, TX hometown. She attended Eula High School and from there went on to Howard Payne University. She graduated with a degree in Exercise and Sports Science in 2005. When asked why she chose teaching as a profession, Chelsey stated that she wanted to get up everyday and not dread going to work. "I wanted to do something that I would really enjoy," she stated. Since she had always been involved in sports and liked being able to help other people to learn and rise to the best of their potential in anything they might choose, teaching/coaching seemed to be a perfect avenue to pursue.

Many of Chelsey's teachers and coaches influenced her while in school. She hopes to help her students to make positive choices in their lives.

Coach D was an assistant softball coach at Howard Payne before accepting a position at BISD. In her spare time, she enjoys spending summers at the lake, playing coed softball, and spending time with her family.

Most of her high school memories involve friends and sports.  She stated that she would not change a thing from those days; she enjoyed everything about it and always tried to make the right choices. One of her funniest memories happened during a high school softball game. When the second baseman and an elderly umpire collided. they both hit the ground and the umpire got up and was checking on the second baseman. When it all was said and done, everyone was laughing.

Coach D has only great memories of school and sometimes wishes she could go back and do it again!!





 

Laura Strube - BISD Superintendent

Ms. Strube, for those of you who may not know, is the Superintendent of BISD. She was born in San Angelo, TX and grew up in Wall, TX where she graduated from Wall High School in 1981.

By taking a look at Ms. Strube's data she provided for this edition of the Spotlight, one could say that Ms. Strube has been in school her entire life. After high school she went on to Angelo State University where in 1984 she earned her BBA, in 1986 her Teaching Certification, and in 1987 she earned her MBA. Several years later Ms. Strube had decided that for her, that wasn't enough school, and went back to ASU to earn her Mid Management Certificate in 1997, and then once more to earn her Superintendent Certification in 2006. That's somewhere in the neighborhood of 37 years of going to school if you count from her elementary days until her last accomplishment in 2006!

Ms. Strube has been with BISD for about 9 years now. She started with our school system in July of 2000 with a 5 year run as the Administrative Assistant to the Superintendent. In 2005, Ms. Strube assumed the position of Assistant Superintendent. She held that position for 3 years until being hired as the BISD Superintendent in September of 2008.

Prior to BISD, Ms. Strube worked at Midland ISD for 9 1/2 years where she taught Junior High Computer Literacy and was a team leader for 3 years where she was in charge of all non-core or elective classes. She taught a semester in Mertzon, TX at Irion County ISD in High School Business Classes as well as Junior High Computer Literacy. And last but not least, Ms. Strube had a 2 year run as the elementary principal at Klondike ISD in Lamesa, TX.

When Ms. Strube is not at school or in school, she enjoys spending her spare time with her family. She takes her duties as being Aunt Laura very seriously, and considers this her greatest joy and accomplishment in her life.

Ms. Strube was asked to let us know what influenced her to become a teacher and to tell us some of her favorite memories of her own school days. Instead of paraphrasing her answer to those questions, it would be best to provide a direct quote from her:

"There were several benchmarks in my development of becoming a teacher.  The first benchmark occured when I was in the 6th grade and my sister died.  My 6th grade teacher, Mrs. Sullivan, stepped out of her role as "teacher" and evolved into a confidant.  She helped ease my pain and she helped my classmates realize the sorrow I was experiencing. 

When I was in junior high, my second benchmark occurred through and elderly teacher, Mr. VanOrden.  He taught me the virtue of self-control and respect at a time in my life when I thought I knew more than all my teachers, as well as my parents. 

My third benchmark was provided to me in high school by Mrs. Haney.  She inspired me through her clever, manipulative teaching methods, to love math.   With my love for math, I decided to pursue a teaching career in finance. 

After getting my bachelors and working in savings and loan, I would overhear my two older sisters discussing their teaching professions.   They would proudly discuss their students' accomplishments and recall amusing anecdotes.  This inspired me to my fourth benchmark which included returning to college to get my masters and my teaching certificate."

We at BallingerNews.com wish to thank Ms. Strube for her dedication to our ISD and for her overall dedication to the education of all the children she has come into contact with in her past and those to come in her future.

Teri Johnson - BHS Counselor

Ms. Johnson was born and raised in Odessa, TX where she attended Permian and Odessa High Schools. She attended Odessa Junior College, the University of Texas at Permian Basin, ASU where she majored in Life/Earth Science in 1982. She also gained a degree in 1991 in Special Education from ASU as well as a Masters degree in Guidance and Counseling and a Masters in Special Education counseling, both in 1998.

Ms. Johnson has been with BHS for 3 years now where a typical day involves checking student's transcripts for completions, and sending transcripts and tests grades over to various colleges to help get students in touch with college representatives. Ms. Johnson trains the teachers for TAKS testing, makes sure scholarships are posted and copied for students. She talks with parents and students for ever changing needs, and says that every day is different.

Other schools she's worked at are Elgin ISD as the Special Education Counselor, and was also the Elgin High School Counselor. She even managed a southwest grill in Austin called Moe's at one point.

When asked what she loves most about her job, she stated,  "Working with students on what subjects to take to make their dreams come true whether it be technical school, 2 year college, university or military.  Sometimes I just talk to students about their plans or dreams and how to accomplish their goals."

Playing with her 4 grandkids, who she loves to spoil rotten, is one of her hobbies. She also goes to Bible study and is the host of a Christian Singles Group at her Church TLC.

When asked to share a favorite memory from her days in school, Ms. Johnson replied with, "I remember being a Bronc'ette, pep squad, and having to paint signs all the time for football, basketball and baseball.  We had huge pep rallies and contests and dances.  I remember graduation and being at the end of my class of 650, I was a "W".   I also remember getting to paint our cars for the Friday night games.  School was fun but I really do not remember much about my teachers, the admin or subjects.  Just loved having fun."

Rita Pitts - BJHS Counselor

Ms. Pitts was born in San Angelo and grew up on a farm about 4 miles from Miles, Texas where she went to school and graduated from Miles High School.

Ms. Pitts then went on to graduate from Angelo State University in 1968 with Bachelor of Science Degree where she majored in Math and minored in English. She then completed her Masters of Education in Guidance and Counseling in 1992, also from ASU. Ms. Pitts holds an Administration Certification from Angelo State as well.

Ms. Pitts has been the BJHS counselor for 17 years where a typical day at work involves talking with parents and students. If a student needs a schedule change, Ms. Pitts takes care of that.  She is also in charge of all testing, including testing for gifted and talented, and TAKS testing.  She also trains the peer mediators at the campus and is in charge of the mentoring program also. Ms. Pitts enjoys working with children which was a motivating factor in her decision to take a job with the school.

She did enjoy teaching math for over 20 years before deciding on a career change and went back to school. Her first teaching assignment was in Winters, TX where she taught high school students geometry and related math. From there she went on to Edison Jr. High in San Angelo to teach Algebra I and 8th grade mathematics. This was her last assignment prior to moving on to BISD.

Ms. Pitts says there is never a dull day on this job and no two days are alike. She also went on to say that she works with great people and they are probably the best anywhere. Those are a couple things she likes most about this job.

Ms. Pitts does enjoy her time off where she gets to take part in her hobbies. She very much enjoys being with her family and especially her grandsons. She is an avid hunter, enjoys fishing, and just really loves being outdoors, where she also like doing yard work and gardening.

When asked to share one of her favorite memories from her own days at school, Ms. Pitts said, "One of my favorite memories of my own school days was winning Regional Football Championship when we were seniors.  We played in the San Angelo Stadium and the temperature must have been 25 degrees.  We had a drill team so we had to go out on the field at half-time and perform.  It was so cold, but we won the football game.  And for the record Regional was as far as we could go at that time."

Christine Wilmoth - BES Counselor

Mrs. Wilmoth was born where "the Frio River runs thru my veins" in Leaky, TX.  She is a 1978 graduate of Uvalde High School, which was "many moons ago when the land was new," where the school mascot is the Coyote.

After high school Mrs. Wilmoth received her Bachelor's Degree from the University of Texas - San Antonio and her Masters Degree in Mid Management and her Masters in Counseling both from Sul Ross University which is located in Alpine, TX.

            Mrs. Wilmoth has been employed as the Ballinger Elementary School Counselor since 2005. When asked what her job is like on a daily basis, Mrs. Wilmoth replied:
"While the word “Counselor” evokes a certain thought, that does not typically describe what is done on a daily basis.  I do spend time with the kids, in Individual Counseling, Small group Counseling, Conflict Resolution, Bully Prevention, and Character Education.  The other half of my job entails, making sure that testing goes smoothly, helping kids transition, helping our at-risk students be successful, and hopefully seeing that teachers’ days goes a little more smoothly. "  Mrs. Wilmoth really enjoys the "privilege" of spending time with all the students from grade K to 5.

Mrs. Wilmoth's mother was a teacher which made Mrs. Wilmoth decide as a child that teaching was not a career path she'd like to follow. However, as she became a mother herself, she realized the value of education. Mrs. Wilmoth decided there was no better way to ensure a good education for her own children as well as a way to help other's children, than to become an educator herself. During her search for her career, she tried various other paths, but ended up doing what she was meant to do - working with kids!

Her teaching career started with 7th and 8th grade remedial Reading at Uvalde Jr. High where she also taught Language Arts for a combined stent of 6 years. After Uvalde Jr. High, Mrs. Wilmoth moved to the high school where she instructed students in Freshman English and Junior AP English for a combined 4 years.

Mrs. Wilmoth was asked about what she enjoyed most of her job and she replied, "I enjoy the time that I spend with the kids. I also get great pleasure trying to find a way to help students succeed."

Some hobbies that are enjoyed by the Wilmoth's are riding motorcycles. Mrs. Wilmoth rides a Harley Davidson motorcycle, likes working with wood, and reading. She spends a lot of time in her workshop making crosses, headboards and various furniture.

Mrs. Wilmoth has one memory that really stands out to her from her own days in school.  She used to play the flute in the marching and concert bands where she won 1st Chair at Region. It was also a great honor to her to be offered a scholarship in music even though she opted not to accept that.