Plano ISD
Council
of PTAs
would like
to thank
these
sponsors
for their
generous
support
of our
Life
Member
Banquet.
DR. BRIAN BINGGELI — KEYNOTE SPEAKER
Dr. Brian T. Binggeli took the helm as the district’s chief executive
officer on July 1, 2015. Prior to joining Plano schools, Dr. Binggeli
served as Superintendent of Brevard Public Schools (BPS) in Florida
for six years. In Brevard, he was responsible for more than 73,000
students, approximately 9,000 school board employees, 82
schools, 10 charter schools and 20 special centers in a county that
encompasses 1,557 square miles.
Superintendent
Plano ISD
Now in his 34th year in public education, Dr. Binggeli has served
in school administration for 26 years. He was Director of Middle
Education and then Executive Director of Curriculum and Instruction
for Spotsylvania County Schools in Fredericksburg, Virginia. Prior to
being selected as Superintendent for BPS, Dr. Binggeli was the Cluster
IV Assistant Superintendent for Fairfax County Public Schools in
Falls Church, Virginia. This position gave him overall programmatic
responsibility for 29 schools and 22,000 students while placing
him on the leadership team of the 12th largest school districts in the
nation (170,000 students).
In 2000, Dr. Binggeli was selected as Henrico County Public
Schools Instructional Leader of the Year. Henrico County Public
Schools is host to 66 schools and over 47,000 students. He was
nominated by the Richmond Area Counselors Association for the
Virginia School Counselors Association School Administrator of
the Year Award in 2001 and named by the Virginia Association of
Secondary School Principals as Outstanding Middle School Principal
of Virginia in 2002. In 2011, Dr. Binggeli was recognized by the
Consortium of Florida Education Foundation with the Florida Star
Superintendent Award.
Dr. Binggeli holds a Doctorate in Educational Leadership and Policy
studies from Virginia Tech. He earned his master’s degree from Virginia
State and his undergraduate degree from Miami University in Oxford,
Ohio. Dr. Binggeli began his career as a teacher in Elyria, Ohio in
1981 and served as a teacher, coach, assistant principal and principal
in Virginia. He has been a principal at both the middle and high
school level. Dr. Binggeli has served as an adjunct professor in Virginia
Tech’s Educational Leadership and Policy Studies Doctoral program
and in the University of Virginia’s administrative licensure program.
1
AMY NELSON
President
Plano ISD Council
of PTAs
On behalf of the Plano ISD Council of PTAs, welcome to the 2016
Life Member banquet.
This council event is a vehicle to recognize volunteers throughout
the Plano ISD community who positively impact our students’ and
families’ lives. Congratulations to all of our 2016 PTA Life Members
and Extended Service Award recipients for receiving one of the
highest honors bestowed by Texas PTA. Your tireless and selfless
service will influence many generations.
Thank you to each local Plano ISD PTA for being the entity that
binds and sustains your community. Plano ISD Council of PTAs is
only as strong as our local PTAs. Plano PTAs are titans!
Without our council sponsors, council would struggle to provide
programs and training throughout Plano ISD. Thank you to our
sponsors for supporting and believing in our mission.
Finally, our council board members and district personnel
who comprise council leadership are critical to the organization’s
success at all levels. Many of you serve in multiple areas and schools
regardless of whether you have a student in that school. You are
amazing and very much appreciated.
Enjoy your evening and whoop it up for your honorees. Show the
love they deserve...
TEXAS PTA LIFE MEMBER
Becky Byrley
T is for the time you make available to this organization
E is for the excellent care you give to PTA and school
X is for all the Xeroxing you’ve done
A is for your award-winning events
S is for your service and commitment
P is for the powerful programs you create
T is for your tenacity to get the job done
A is for your ability to serve
L is for the love you express to children and teachers
I is for your inability to say “No” when asked
F is for finishing each job you take on
E is for the awe-inspiring example you set
2
M is for modeling service behavior
E is for the enthusiasm you exude
M is for the wonderful memories you’re making
B is for being there for our children
E is for everything you’ve accomplished
R is for your recognition of a job well done
Welcome Amy Nelson
Introduction of President, Plano ISD
Special Guests Council of PTAs
Recognition of Sponsors Nancy Sennetti
3rd VP-Membership,
Plano ISD Council of PTAs
DINNER
Introduction of Guest Speaker Becky Byrley
Life Membership,
Plano ISD Council of PTAs
Guest Speaker Dr. Brian Binggeli
Plano ISD
Superintendent of Schools
Presentation of Awards Penny Chapman
Plano West & Plano East Feeder Pattern Paula Johnston
Entertainment Plano West Flute Choir
James Hannah, director
Presentation of Awards Kelley Thomas
Plano Senior Feeder Pattern Cathy Talbott
Plano Academy
Drawing for Hotel Room Amy Nelson
and Symphony Tickets
Closing Amy Nelson
3
Plano ISD Council of PTAs
2016 Award honorees
Gail Ball
Courtney Bruhn
Gail Ball moved to Texas from Florida in
Nov. 2001 and began her career with the
PISD School District in March of 2002.
Gail’s current title is Office Manager Administration Building. In addition to the
Administration Building, she also provides
support for the Sockwell and Cox Buildings.
Her duties have evolved over the years to
include much more responsibility as Building
Management involves successfully handling
many different issues and challenges.
Gail is the person behind the scenes that
make things happen. She takes care of the
Administration Building as if it were her
own and is consistently focused on what
is best for the District. Her work ethic is
legendary as is her phenomenal memory
and great sense of humor. Gail is extremely
hard-working. She takes the lead, gives her
best at all times and is quite serious about
doing the best she can to help people. She
is dedicated, loyal, and sincere, and has a
wonderful attitude. Her Supervisor has said,
“Because of Gail’s desire to serve others, we
all benefit.” Gail enjoys volunteering with
PISD events such as Ski Plano, Teacher-of-theYear, and the Superintendent Teacher Service
Awards. Serving others was instilled in her as
a teenager when she joined the International
Order of the Rainbow for Girls, which teaches
leadership training through community
service. Gail enjoys swimming, the ocean and
vacationing in Florida. She loves Football,
Peyton and Eli Manning, and her favorite
team is the Miami Dolphins. Gail has two
loving children, three wonderful grandchildren
and three beautiful great grandchildren.
She has a passion for all members of her
family, giving encouragement, and help when
needed.
Courtney has been the Leadership Mentor
on the PTSA Council for two years and is
currently the PTA President at Schimelpfenig
Middle School. She is also Parliamentarian at
Davis Elementary. In the past, she was PTSA
President for two years at Bethany Elementary.
Courtney selflessly gives of her time and
energy for PTSA. As a Leadership Mentor, she
has helped facilitate many of her schools’
on-site programs and events, and has been
engaged in the day-to-day operations of our
local PTA’s on an on-going basis. This past
year, Courtney attended the Texas PTA Lone
Star Weekend to confer and network with
other PTA leaders and for multiple years,
she has furthered her PTA education by
attending the Texas PTA Summer Leadership
Seminars. She participates and engages in
monthly webinars with the Texas PTA to stay
involved and keep current on changes within
our State PTA. Courtney also attends and
facilitates Council trainings and meetings,
to not only further her own PTA knowledge,
but to help others to further theirs. One of
the special and very important things she
does for PTA is striving to make sure all
PTA’s reflect the same mission and goals —
benefitting each in the same way. Courtney
acts tirelessly as a support and as a trainer
to the school campuses that struggle with
leadership and she works diligently to find
the answers to their PTSA needs. Courtney
clearly understands and cares about our PTA
schools and our school communities.
4
Bruce Glasscock
Bruce D. Glasscock is an exceptional
leader and a part of what makes Plano a city
of excellence. Currently the City Manager for
the City of Plano, he is responsible for the
city’s daily operations. Holding a Bachelor’s
degree in Criminal Justice Management, and
a Master’s Degree in Public Administration,
Bruce began his career with the City of
Plano when selected as Police Chief of the
Plano Police Department. He became a
strong advocate of our children and assisted
in enacting legislation to prevent harm to
them. Bruce was instrumental in the creation
and passage of Senator Florence Shapiro’s
sponsored Ashley’s Laws, protecting children
from sexual predators and providing for
severe offender punishment. He is also
active with the Collin County Children’s
Advocacy Center, serving on their Board of
Directors for years.
As City Manager, Bruce makes the
City’s relationship with PISD a priority and
encourages the City to continue their
coordination of school safety resources
and sharing of school and park facilities
to provide the best for our children. He
supports the Police/PISD School Liaison
program and supports involvement in PISD
events such as Red Ribbon Day. As a mentor,
Bruce makes time to speak to students,
never declining a requested meeting,
interview or telephone call to complete a
school project. He encourages students to
enhance their education by encouraging
team-based learning, and developing
community knowledge by attending City
Council meetings. When Haun Elementary
Fifth-graders launched Project, “Sketchup”,
a computer program used to design 3-D
animated cities, Bruce enjoyed helping them
understand the needs of a city. Bruce and
his wife, Memrie, have two sons and three
grandchildren. He remains active in the
community through membership on local,
state and national boards.
Dr. Brian Binggeli, our Plano ISD
Superintendent of Schools states:
“Plano ISD could have no better partner than
City Manager Bruce Glasscock...The attributes
of someone like Bruce Glasscock reach far
beyond his title. He is a great communicator,
consensus builder and team player. He has
a long-standing positive relationship with
Plano ISD, and I am certainly thankful for his
professionalism and friendship as we manage
our respective roles. We can always count
on returned calls, informed answers and
assistance from Bruce and that’s priceless.”
Marta Lilly
Marta has been with the PISD Education
Foundation since 2014. She came to us
from Lewisville ISD where she worked for
seven years in the science store, a secretary
in middle school, an aide for special
education students and in the Administrative
offices. Marta received a Masters Degree
in Education with Special Education
Certification from the University of North
Texas in Denton.
Marta is a passionate, motivated, detailed
and determined individual, who works
diligently in her professional life as well
as in serving her school PTA and her local
communities. Among other things, she has
been responsible for setting up Speakers
at PTA meetings, helped register over 100
students in the school year, organized
5th Grade Orientation for three feeder
elementary school, and mentored at-risk
children.
In the past, Marta has organized and
managed the Angel Tree Holiday Gift Project,
serving over 300 children, and been involved
with the Komen Dallas Race for the Cure.
With national and international experience
in her background, Marta has been a key
interface for new students and their families
from both here and abroad and has helped
decrease the anxiety of new students by
her involvement and management of the
Diplomatic Outdoor School Program.
Marta works diligently to support the
Education Foundation and the PTA in their
missions to help all students achieve their
full potential.
5
Texas PTA Extended Service
Award Honorees
In 1987, the Texas PTA Board of Directors developed criteria for
an Extended Service Award to be given to those people who have
received
an Honorary Texas PTA Life Membership AND who have
re
continued
to give outstanding service AND who have been actively
con
involved
in the Texas PTA for ten years or more. Presentations of the
inv
Extended Service Award honor that long term dedication to Texas PTA and the
young people of Texas. On behalf of the Plano ISD Council of PTAs and its local unit
member PTAs, we congratulate tonight’s honorees.
DAFFRON ELEMENTARY
Kevin Kennedy
“
One of the
gratuities about
being a director
is that you
can volunteer
yourself out
of difficult
details.”
Steven Spielberg
6
Kevin Kennedy is this year’s PTA Extended Service Award winner for
Daffron PTA. He is Assistant Principal at Daffron Elementary School
and has been a Life Member of PTA since 2007. Kevin has served on
thirteen campuses as both teacher and administrator. Kevin is often
the “face behind the mask,” dressing up as Geronimo Stilton and Pete
the Cat to surprise our students when they start their school day. He
sang with the Honor Choir during their winter program and is often
present for evening activities to make sure things are running smoothly.
Daffron students and parents always enjoy running into Mr. Kennedy in
the hallways of the school. They love the way he welcomes them with
his wonderful smile. Kevin knows the value of the PTA and has a great
appreciation for the opportunities students have been given through PTA
sponsorship. Daffron PTA, teachers and staff are extremely proud to call
Mr. Kennedy our very own.
DAVIS ELEMENTARY
Erin Graham
The very great and wonderful Erin Graham has been the Librarian at
Davis Elementary School for 16 years. Prior to Davis, Ms. Graham taught
Third Grade in Allen, Texas, while she worked on her Master’s degree.
Attending since the early age of four years old, Erin now teaches Sunday
school at The First Baptist Church of Allen. Ms. Graham is always willing
to help in the different grade levels at Davis Elementary. She makes
genuine and true relationships with our students and their families.
Come into her Library looking for a book and she will find just what
you need. She loves watching our students grow and develop a real love
for reading. Helping the students do just that is what makes her special.
FRANKFORD MIDDLE SCHOOL
Laura White
Laura has been involved with PTA since 1997 as her four sons (ages
24-10) have progressed through the ranks of PISD. Laura started out
as “Room Mom” at Jackson Elementary, later becoming more involved
at Hightower Elementary, Frankford Middle School, Shepton High
School, Plano West Sr. High School, and the PISD Council of PTAs. For
the Frankford PTA, Laura was a two-year Socials Volunteers Chair and
the VP of Volunteers. In 2002, and continuing, she has been a general
volunteer for Socials and also the copy room. She has volunteered at
ALL grade-level Socials, 8th-Grade Celebration, Music and Spirit Wear,
Teacher/Staff Appreciation and Hospitality events. In PTA, Laura was
on the By-Laws and Standing Rules Revision Committee. With the last
of her four sons slated to attend Frankford Middle School next year,
Laura will have a complete nest of “Frankford Falcons! Laura’s favorite
part of volunteering is the personal connection she makes with others
including the students, volunteers, and staff. She has made some of her
best friendships while volunteering. She has also been able to meet her
sons’ friends’ and their parents so their community network grows. Laura
has loving encouragement from her husband, Chris, and support from
her four sons; Damion, a Biology Teacher at Jasper, Dexter, a 9th Grader,
Darwin in 7th Grade, and Dermot, who is in the 5th Grade.
ROSE MARY HAGGAR ELEMENTARY
Darla Sanderson
Darla Sanderson, a mother of three, has been a PTA member for over
10 years and serves as an outstanding role model with her indefatigable
efforts. Darla started on the PTA Board as Teacher Liaison and in this
role led a committee in redesigning the teachers’ workspace. Her
creativity and innovation also helped the school turn our library into an
advanced learning commons where students can discover, create, and
collaborate with their peers. For the past two years, Darla served as the
Hospitality Chair creating a spring Beach Blast and our community-wide
Haggar Howdy in the fall. This year, Darla moved into the demanding
role of 3rd VP of Fundraising. To date, she has spearheaded a new
“Color Run” school-wide program to raise money for the school while
raising drug awareness for our students. She has even set up and
manned a snack cart after school to increase Haggar spirit while raising
funds. Darla continues to devote her time and creativity to the school
and continuously looks for ways to improve Haggar.
“
We cannot always
build the future
for our youth,
but we can build
our youth for the
future.”
Franklin Delano
Roosevelt
7
HENDRICK MIDDLE SCHOOL
Liz Ziske
H. Wayne Hendrick Middle School PTA is very proud to honor Liz
Ziske with the Texas PTA Extended Service Award. Liz’s work ethic and
thoughtfulness are extraordinary. She takes her time to think things
through for the best results, ASpires to excellence in every project and
INspires others to do the same. Liz has been a Plano PTA member
since 1996. She taught 2nd Grade at Mathews Elementary and Haun
Elementary from 1996 until 2001 when she decided to become a
full-time mom and volunteer. She served a total of 12 years for Beverly
Elementary PTA and six years for Hendrick PTA. In 2012, Beverly
Elementary PTA recognized her diligence and service by honoring her
with the Texas PTA Honorary Life Membership Award. Over her 15 years
of volunteer service, she has been part of many committees and has
held several board positions, including Room Parent, Directory Chair,
Membership Chair and Room Parent coordinator. Liz has also been a
continual and reliable Supply Cart volunteer, Library volunteer, Book Fair
volunteer and more. Currently, she holds the Fundraising Chair position
on the Hendrick PTA Board and is also the Physical Education Uniform
Chair. Liz is very active at St. Elizabeth Ann Seton Catholic Church where
she volunteers with the youth programs and teaches an Eighth-Grade
Faith Formation class. She and her husband, Bill, have been married for
24 years and have recently embarked on a new adventure, being coowners of their company, Z Natural Life. They are blessed with two great
children: Stephen (20), an Engineering Major at OSU, and Nicole (14),
an 8th grader at Hendrick. Liz loves the quote “You never know when
you are making a memory” by R.L. Stine. She is very much appreciative of
the memories she has made while being part of the PTA and hopes that
she has made a few for others along the way.
“
RENNER MIDDLE SCHOOL
Rhonda Snyder
Rhonda has been a PTA Member for 10 years and has served in
numerous roles throughout Elementary school, in fact, so many, they
are too numerous to list. She is currently serving at both Renner and at
Every action in our the High school level. She has also served at the PTA Council level in
various roles, including Council President. Rhonda is a huge asset to
lives touches on
Renner, our PTA and our community. With all the demands placed on
some chord that
her from her many PTA roles at School and at Council levels, she still
will vibrate
stepped in to be a Math Substitute Teacher for half of last year’s school
year and also stepped in for Language Arts in the first semester of this
in eternity.”
school year. Even working in her full-time Substitute Teacher positions,
Edwin Hubbel
Rhonda continues to produce results in her PTA roles. She recently
assisted our PTA by working with some key decision makers within the
Chapin
Plano Independent School District to negotiate a deal that saved our PTA
thousands of dollars. If we want to get something done, we definitely
know who to call! In addition to all of her other duties and roles,
8
Rhonda is currently serving on the Renner PTA Executive Board as 3rd
VP Ways and Means and continues to hold a post on the PTA Council
as Community Membership Chair. As busy as she is, Rhonda still makes
time for all of her children’s sporting events! Renner PTA is honored to
recognize Rhonda Snyder with the Texas PTA Extended Service Award
for consistently going above and beyond the call of duty to support the
needs of PTA, Renner Middle School and our Community!
Lisa Stokes
Lisa has been a PTA member for 11 years and has held many positions
in the PTA such as: President, at both the Elementary and Middle school
levels, Website Chair, School Supply Chair and has volunteered countless
hours without any title. She makes a difference by collaborating as a
team with school staff to ensure projects are implemented that make
an impact to the school to enhance the education of all students. Lisa
helped approve and implement a number of grants for Renner including
new basketball backboards and theatre curtains. She has hosted Drug
Awareness speakers for both parents and students, as well as Math
nights that were centered around a changing curriculum. She cleared her
personal calendar for the first two weeks of school to ensure a smooth
start for everyone and consistently does so in support of most Renner
events. Lisa has a casual, graceful leadership style that puts everyone at
ease while recruiting and surrounding herself with positive, hard-working
Executive Board Members. She is always at the ready to keep Renner
parents well-informed and she is ever-willing to work to support the
Renner Administration in accomplishing their goals of making Renner
a top middle school in the district. Her current job as President of the
Renner PTA is most time-consuming and most demanding, yet she
makes it look easy! On behalf of the Renner PTA, we are honored to
present Lisa Stokes with the Texas PTA Extended Service Award! Thank
you, Lisa, for making a difference by creating a role model for excellence
in our local community and beyond.
“
We all have a
responsibility
to volunteer
somewhere and
I’m lucky that I
get the education
PLANO WEST SENIOR HIGH
and get taken
Tina Daniels
to places to see
Tina Daniels has been a member of Rowlett, Allen and Plano PTA’s.
She has held almost every position, but her specialty and favorite
is Hospitality/Staff-Teacher Appreciation which she has held for 19
years. She is currently the Hospitality Chair at Plano West Senior High
School PTA. Tina is lovingly supported in her volunteerism by husband,
Timothy (a former high school Math teacher). Tina has been married
to Timothy for 31 years and they have four beautiful children, Teisha,
Tad, Teal and Tate. They also have two great sons-in-laws, and two
perfect grandchildren. Her youngest child will go to college in the fall,
fostering her plan to grow her non-profit, “In Addition”, an organization
that honors teachers in under-served schools. In the past, Tina was
an event planner for the City of Allen, hosting the children’s Art Tent
and teen Art Contests. She has volunteered in the Children’s and Teen
what’s out there
and see what’s
happening and to
then be a part of
it in hopefully an
impactful way.”
Jennifer Garner
9
Ministry at her church and taught Bible School. In her spare time, Tina
loves studying the Bible, traveling, entertaining family & friends, and
renovating her “new” 1981 home. Plano West PTA is honored to present
Tina Daniels with the Texas PTA Extended Service Award.
SAIGLING ELEMENTARY
Barbara West
Born in Kentucky horse country, it is no wonder Barbara West has
proudly been a Saigling Stallion for 28 years. Barbara has also been
a Texas PTA member for 31 years, and received the PTA Lifetime
Member Award in 2003. This year the Saigling Elementary PTA proudly
awards her the Extended Lifetime Award. Barbara is the Saigling Office
Manager and it is not just a job to her, but an integral part of her life.
She feels fortunate that all six of the Principals under whom she has
worked have understood her desire to connect with the staff, students
and PTA beyond the normal framework of her job description. Barbara
has enjoyed her part in maintaining the efficient operation of Saigling,
but it’s the extra, added duties that make each day more fulfilling. She
may be asked to dry a child’s tears, counsel a new teacher, explain a
procedural process, or plan a special training event. She also strives
to ensure that each student, teacher and person walking in through
the school doors feels welcomed, engaged, safe, and comfortable. She
also watches with delight as her own grandchildren trot through those
school doors each morning, ready to take part in their educational
training. Barbara feels blessed to have a loving and supportive family
at home. She believes she has seen the ultimate reward of her PTA
and school service by witnessing her two daughters transform into
passionate teachers who are active participants in PISD’s “teamwork for
excellence. Saigling’s motto of “Care, Share and Shine” has come full
circle in her tenure at the school. To Barbara, Saigling Elementary IS her
“home away from home.”
“
SHEPTON HIGH SCHOOL
Holly Castora
Holly Castora has been an integral part of several PTA’s for many years,
as well as Booster Clubs and other organizations. Her commitment to
our children is astounding. She is always willing to step up and step
are too small to be
in when needed and can be counted on to run an event seamlessly.
effective, you have Holly has served in numerous Board and Chair positions on PTA’s at
never been in bed Brinker Elementary, Renner Middle School, Shepton High School and
Plano West Senior High School. She is also involved with National
with a mosquito.” Charity League (NCL), her daughters’ dance studio Booster Club, and
the Plano West Football Booster Club. We are thrilled to celebrate her
Betty Reese
years of service with a Texas PTA Extended Service Award on behalf of
Shepton PTSA. Holly is supported by her husband, Mickey, son, Riley, a
Senior at Plano West and her two daughters, Caroline and Abby, who
are Freshmen at Shepton.
If you think you
10
STINSON ELEMENTARY
Lori Schnier
Lori Schnier has repeatedly volunteered at Stinson for 11 years. She
started out primarily doing volunteer jobs at home for the teachers
because she had young triplets at home. In her spare time (with
four kids!), she did things like cutting out dresses and beaks for the
Kindergarten Thanksgiving program. She volunteered at events such as
the Back-to-School Picnic and class parties for all four of her children.
She also donates food and goodies for events like Teacher Appreciation
week. Her first PTA position was School Store Manager. Then Lori
blessed Stinson with her natural mathematical talents by taking the
board position of Assistant Treasurer, which led to being Treasurer. She
loves this position because it gives her an appreciation of all the things
the PTA does for our kids and community. Lori continues to be a very
responsible steward of our PTA’s money in her current role as Assistant
Treasurer. She’s dedicated, organized, and a great person to train with,
as she is very caring to those around her. Lori went above and beyond
as Treasurer and implemented programs for financial form submittal
that is easier for those of us who are not mathematically inclined! Her
understanding and encouragement have inspired people to volunteer for
the PTA, who might not have if she was not there. Lori’s contributions to
Stinson for the past 11 years are immeasurable.
THANK YOU...
Becky Byrley A heartfelt “Thank You” is extended to all the volunteers who helped with
Life Member
Banquet Chair
this exciting event. I am grateful for the support I received from PTAs, PISD
Administration, City of Plano, and Council members. I would like to mention
specifically Nicole Mattingly, Libby Goldman, and Nancy Sennetti.
Nicole Mattingly made my vision of the decorations come to life. She has spent
many hours cutting out patterns for the flowers you see on your table. She is
totally responsible for the stunning white flower centerpiece. Not only did she
design the template, Nicole personally hand-cut each piece that makes up that
spectacular flower and assembled every single one.
If there is a typographical or grammatical error in any document, Libby Goldman
will find it! She has saved me on many occasions with ensuring the commas,
colons, and, yes, that the right words are correct. Libby has reviewed every bio in
this booklet. She also wrote the bios for our Council honorees.
Nancy Senetti sent many, many emails to Membership Chairs on behalf of the
banquet. She helped us all to keep and meet our deadlines.
Mere words cannot express the appreciation I feel for everyone who assisted me
to make the Life Member Banquet an event to remember.
11
Texas PTA
Life Membership Award Honorees
For ove
over 90 years, Texas PTA has made available the honorary Texas PTA Life
M
Membership
award as one of the highest honors that may be presented to
individuals
for outstanding service to children and youth. Presentations of
in
life memberships are made to publicly recognize those who have given
of their time and ability in the interest of young people in Texas. Over
2500 Life Memberships have been given to educators and volunteers
in the Plano ISD. On behalf of the Plano ISD Council of PTAs and its local
unit
un member PTAs, we congratulate tonight’s honorees.
ANDREWS ELEMENTARY
Joy Lovell
Joy Lovell is in her third year as Principal at Andrews Elementary. She
always has a smile on her face, has a great relationship with the teachers
and students and is an innovative thinker, not to mention a lifelong
learner. Joy is coordinating development of a Makerspace project in
our library that will encourage kids to think and create at a higher level.
Andrews Elementary is lucky to have such a dynamic leader.
“
Shelly Van Doren
Shelly Van Doren has been a teacher at Andrews Elementary since 2006
and a PISD teacher since 1989 (including 20 years as a Band Director).
Too often we
Shelly now teaches 5th grade. She’s a great communicator, is caring and
provides a wonderful classroom environment where kids enjoy learning.
underestimate the
Shelly Van Doren is a great asset to Andrews’ teaching staff, and we are
power of a touch, a honored to have her here.
smile, a kind word,
a listening ear, an
Sabra Weis
Sabra Weis is a parent and PTA Board Member who served as President
honest compliment, and has filled many PTA roles over the years. As Programs Chair,
or the smallest
act of caring, all
of which have the
potential to turn a
life around.”
Leo Buscaglia
12
she organized a Veteran’s Day event that was amazing this year, and
coordinated a balloon release of 700 red balloons to culminate Red
Ribbon Week this year. Sabra has a 20-year-old son and a nine-yearold daughter. Her children were the reason she began volunteering in
PTA and for our schools. We are so pleased to have her with us here
at Andrews.
BARKSDALE ELEMENTARY
Kelly Durrett
Kelly Durrett has been part of the Barksdale Elementary Family for
15 years and is a Team Leader on the 4th-Grade Team. She is very
personable, positive, and encouraging, even in the most difficult times.
Kelly’s patience and nurturing demeanor provide students with the
confidence to accomplish great things in the classroom. She always has
a smile on her face and others often say that she is one of those people
that you just enjoy being around. Kelly is also the proud mother of
three beautiful children, Owen, a 1st Grader at Barksdale, Alice, who will
begin Kindergarten next fall, and Margot, who is one-year old.
Gillian Hublal
Gillian moved to Barksdale Elementary from another school and was
immediately handpicked to serve on the Barksdale PTA Board. Her
approachable attitude and her desire and passion for the school are
respected by all who know her. Gillian has volunteered on many
committees throughout the years, and is currently serving her second
year as PTA President. Her easy-going personality and leadership style
has garnered many changes and new ideas in PTA. Gillian is known to
be a good listener and each decision being made keeps in mind the
question,’ Is this what is best for the campus, the community, and most
importantly, the Barksdale students? Gillian, and her supportive husband,
Mark, have two children; Evie, a fourth grader, and Ethan, a first grader.
Gillian is a wonderful asset to our school and our community.
BRINKER ELEMENTARY
Heather Burchett
Heather plays an important role in our school by volunteering and
giving her time to Brinker Elementary’s Library and staff. Through her
seven years of being a PTA member, she has held the role of Library
Chair for four years and the Literacy Enrichment Chair for two years.
She volunteers in the classroom when needed for Class Parties, Field
Day and Book Fair. Heather is a regular School Store volunteer at Renner
Middle School and is very active with her sons’ Boy Scout Troop and
Cub Scout Pack. Heather is also involved with her son’s sports teams
as well as a supporter of the Renner Band. She is always willing to put
in extra time if needed and is such a cheerful person to be around.
Heather is a dedicated volunteer and has been a positive supporter of
all the programs and needs at Brinker Elementary School.
“
Those who bring
sunshine to the
lives of others
cannot keep it from
themselves.”
James Matthew
Barrie
13
Alison Grzyb
Alison has been a PTA member for seven years. She has held several
positions at Brinker including Spirit Wear Chair, Book Fair Chair, Reading
Buddies Chair, Homeroom Representative, Parliamentarian, and currently
she is the VP of Volunteers. She also volunteers as a VIP at Brinker as
well as several positions at Renner Middle School. Alison and her older
daughter are active members of the National Charity League and they
volunteer at various non-profit and service events. She attends the Plano
District PTA meetings to stay informed of current events and to see
that the needs of our children are promoted. Alison is a very dedicated
volunteer for Brinker Elementary and the surrounding community.
Shelley Lowe
Shelley has held several positions at Brinker Elementary including
Directory Chair, Book Fair Chair, Homeroom Representative, Lead
Homeroom Representative and Reading Buddies. Currently, Shelley is the
Homeroom Representative Chair. She has been a member of the Brinker
PTA for eight years and has been volunteering since her children entered
the PISD school system. Shelley is always the first to give of her time
to volunteer for both Brinker Elementary and Renner Middle School.
Whenever a volunteer is needed, she is always the one who steps
up. She gives countless hours, not only at the school, but also at her
home doing “behind the scenes” work. She is involved with both of her
daughters’ sports activities and clubs and their extracurricular activities.
Shelley always has a smile on her face and a positive attitude and it
shows through her dedication to the school and PTA.
Julie Pascuzzi
“
We make a living
by what we get, but
we make a life by
what we give.”
Winston Churchill
14
Julie has been a member of the PTA for seven years and is currently our
PTA President at Brinker Elementary. She has been the Arts and Education
Chair, Homeroom Representative, Reading Buddies Chair, and Reflections
Chair. Julie is responsible for bring many additional programs to Brinker
such as Author Visits, Drum-Fit, and Technology programs. She has had
an incredibly positive impact on the students at Brinker. Julie volunteers
with multiple non-profits in Plano and Dallas such as Rainbow Days
and is involved with her children’s activities including dance and sports.
Through her years in PTA, Julie has been a voice in local and district
meetings. She works hard to keep Brinker’s PTA intricately connected
to the larger PTA network and she puts in several hours every week
to support the Brinker PTA, the students and staff. Julie is a dedicated
volunteer that always has a smile on her face, and a lilt in her voice.
Sloan Thompson
Sloan has been a teacher at Brinker Elementary for 10 years. She has
served as the Staff’s Sunshine and Social Chair for the past three years.
Every year, Sloan coordinates a Volunteer Breakfast for all of the parent
volunteers at Brinker. She is 110% dedicated to teaching her students
and she endeavors to go beyond her responsibilities as a teacher. Sloan
works individually with students to help them reach their potential in all
they do and tutors outside of the classroom during the summer months.
Her students love her passion for teaching and her kind and loving
heart. Sloan has an energetic and positive energy. The students, staff and
parents truly appreciate all that she accomplishes for them.
CENTENNIAL ELEMENTARY
Jennifer Collins
The Centennial Elementary PTA presents Jennifer Collins with a
Texas PTA Life Membership Award. Jennifer is a 1st-grade teacher at
Centennial Elementary. The students know, without a doubt, that she
truly cares for them and believes in them. Her enthusiastic attitude is
contagious and inspires children to love school and learning. Jennifer
fosters “grit” in her first graders - or a “can-do” attitude - an attribute
that will serve them well throughout life. In her ten years at Centennial,
she has been an ardent supporter of PTA programs and volunteer
luncheons because she understands that strong relationships with
families optimize student growth and development. Jennifer and her
husband recently embarked on a new journey as first-time parents to
twin baby girls.
Sandra Greene
The Centennial Elementary PTA presents Sandra Greene with the Texas
PTA Life Membership Award. Sandra has been a dedicated volunteer
since her daughter began Kindergarten six years ago. Her biggest PTA
role was serving as the Yearbook Editor for two years, chronicling the
lives of our children by snapping thousands of photos and never
missing an event at school. Sandra also has invested her energies as the
Front Office Coordinator, Room Mom, and Grade-Level Coordinator for
the PTA. She has chaperoned many field trips and helped annually with
Field Day and Texas Day. She will be greatly missed next year.
Teranne Keogh
The Centennial Elementary PTA presents Teranne Keogh with a Texas
PTA Life Membership Award. Teranne is the mother of three children
who attend Centennial Elementary and Renner Middle School. Teranne
currently serves as the Communications Chair for the Centennial PTA,
focusing on the e-newsletter and the website. Previously, she served
as Treasurer for two years, and has been an active PTA volunteer in
many other ways as well. She jumped into the PTA upon moving from
Australia in 2012, where she was also a committed volunteer at her
children’s school. She has balanced volunteer service and a full-time job
with warmth and devotion.
“
What we have done
for ourselves alone
dies with us; what
we have done for
others and the
world remains and
is immortal.”
Albert Pike
15
Benet Martin
The Centennial Elementary PTA presents Benet Martin with a Texas PTA
Life Membership Award. Benet is the mother of a fifth-grade student.
Through her six years at Centennial, Benet has helped tirelessly both in
and out of the classroom. Her enthusiasm and dedication are boundless.
Benet’s creativity and flexibility make her one of the most sought-after
volunteers by anybody responsible for a school program or event. From
Texas Day to Field Day, from Staff Appreciation Week to the Reflections
program, as well as after-school Chess and classroom parties, she has
put her stamp on Centennial and will be greatly missed next year.
Karen Richards
“
Even if it’s a
little thing, do
The Centennial Elementary PTA presents Karen Richards with a Texas
PTA Life Membership Award. Karen is the mother of three children who
attend Centennial Elementary and Renner Middle School. She currently
serves as the Membership and Directory Chair for Centennial PTA,
and previously served as the Communications Chair and a member
of the Texas Day Committee. She assists at PTA Picnics, Field Days and
classroom parties. Karen also holds a Board position with the Renner
Middle School PTA and previously held chair positions with the Brinker
Elementary PTA. She is also an active volunteer with the Boy Scouts of
America in her son’s Troop 1000 in Plano, and with the Plano West
Lacrosse Club.
DAFFRON ELEMENTARY
Lavina Kayyal
Lavina Kayyal is one of the most dedicated PTA members our school
has known. She has been a member since 2009 and currently has
those who have
a daughter in 5th grade. Lavina is PTA’s 4th VP of Communications
and also serves as Council Delegate for Robinson Middle School
need of a man’s
where her son attends 7th grade. He, too, was a Daffron student.
help, something
Lavina’s participation and leadership in numerous programs at
for which you get Daffron has helped cultivate a spirit of service for all of our students
and parents. She has been Kindergarten Liaison, Room Parent Lead,
no pay but the
Volunteer Coordinator, Webmaster, Kids Saving the Earth Sponsor,
privilege of doing Mission Possible Kids Sponsor, STOP Sponsor, SBIC Member and Key
it. For, remember, Communicator. Lavina has volunteered for Deputy Press, Book Fair, Bike
Rodeo, Jog-a-thon, Field Day, Spring Social/Silent Auction, Cultural
you don’t live in a Diversity, Bluebonnet Breakfast and Reflections. She has ushered in new
world all your own. technology and keeps Daffron PTA current, if not ahead of the time, with
online services. All of these things are done with a smile on her face
Your brothers are and a nurturing attitude. This is Lavina’s final year at Daffron and our
PTA greatly appreciates her many years of commitment to the students,
here too.”
parents and teachers.
something for
Albert Schweitzer
16
Chad Prochaska
Chad Prochaska currently has two children at Daffron and has been a
PTA member for five years. His son is in 3rd grade and his daughter is
in 5th grade. Chad has participated in and led many events at Daffron,
including Spring Social/Silent Auction, Bike Rodeo, Dad’s Club, 5th
Grade Camp and also Colonial Day. Chad is also a Cub Scout leader
for the “Pack” at Daffron, but it is Chad’s “behind the scenes” dedication
that is most appreciated at Daffron, especially by the students he
mentors. Chad is a positive male role model to the kids he mentors by
meeting with them at school two-to-three times a month to assist in
their daily work, to discuss current and historical events and to have fun
with math numbers (he calls it “math magic”). For Chad, this time is not
just breakfast with a few kids, but, rather, an opportunity to show them
that someone cares, that they can count on him, and that he wants
them to be happy and successful in life. Every school should have a
Chad Prochaska.
GULLEDGE ELEMENTARY
Buffy Bynum
Gulledge Elementary PTA is honored to present Buffy Bynum with
the Texas PTA Life Membership Award. Mrs. Bynum takes on the huge
task of getting our 5th grade students ready for the next step in their
educational path toward Middle School. Buffy is the 5th grade Team
Lead and teaching is a true passion of hers. She is always going above
and beyond with her students, their parents, and her fellow teachers. Mrs.
Bynum is a very hands-on teacher willing to help each and every one of
her students, not only to thrive, but to also succeed. She enjoys doing
Colonel Days with our 5th grade students, getting them ready for 5th
grade Adventure Camp, and much more. When Buffy is not at school,
you can find her very passionately cheering on her children at their sports
activities. She loves to cheer on her kids and is not shy about being the
proudest and loudest parent on the fields. Buffy Bynum has been a very
active member of our PTA since she began teaching at Gulledge. We are
very grateful for her continual support and dedication to our elementary
school and school PTA. Congratulations to Buffy Bynum on being this
year’s recipient of the Texas PTA Life Membership Award.
Sharon Hill
“
You give but little
when you give of
Sharon has been a very active member of our PTA since 2007 when her your possessions.
oldest child started at Gulledge Elementary. She has done a variety of
It is when you give
volunteer jobs around the school and her dedicated efforts as a parent,
of yourself that you
a student’s advocate, and as a volunteer are irreplaceable. Sharon has
been an active parent in her children’s classrooms as a Room Parent
truly give.”
and has TWICE taken on the huge volunteer job of chaperoning the
Kahlil Gibran
5th grade at Adventure Camp. She has served on a wide variety of
Committee Chair positions such as Box-Top Chair, School Supplies
Chair, Three-for-Me program and 5th grade Celebration Co-Chair, and
17
has volunteered countless hours to our annual Book Fair. Sharon has
served on the PTA board as Vice President of Membership and Vice
President of Volunteers. Due to her experience as an Educator, her
assistance and recommendations have been invaluable to our school.
Sharon is also receiving the PTA Life Member award from Robinson
Middle School. At Robinson, she serves as the School Store Chair,
Nominating Committee, Choir volunteer, and, Razorback Walk-About
volunteer. Sharon has served as a SBIC Parent Representative and is
currently a SBIC Community Representative at Jasper High School.
She has also been a private tutor for the past 15 years. When Sharon
is not volunteering or tutoring, she can be found spending her time
with her daughters and husband. Sharon is always at the school with a
large smile and says “Hello” to everyone she meets. We are so grateful
for all of her hard work and dedication to Gulledge Elementary.
Congratulations to Sharon Hill on her PTA Lifetime Membership Award!
ROSE MARY HAGGAR ELEMENTARY
Wendy Immerman
Wendy Immerman, with two children at Haggar Elementary, has been a
PTA member for the last six years. She first joined the PTA board as the
Newsletter Chair where she worked to disseminate school-wide and PTA
information to all our families. She expanded the PTA communication
by reaching out to students and parents in many innovative ways, which
helped the PTA see an increase in participation at different school based
events. For the past two years, Wendy served as VP of Programs and in
this role was instrumental in exposing the students to new programs
and experiences. In her current role as the VP Membership Chair, she
has continued to create an inclusive environment that benefits everyone.
Wendy continues to be active in numerous volunteer activities and
Volunteering is the school events.
“
ultimate exercise
Anne Jensen
in democracy. You
Anne Jensen has been the Speech and Language Pathologist at Rose Mary
Haggar Elementary for nine years. She was previously at Beverly Elementary
for nine years and Thomas Elementary for one year. She is originally from
Wisconsin and received her degrees from the University of Wisconsin-Eau
Claire. Anne believes the greatest gift of being an Speech and Language
Pathologist is watching her students improve their communication. She
especially loves seeing the joy on their faces when they are able to
produce a sound correctly for the first time or to be able to communicate
what they want to convey on their communication device. Anne is
known for going above and beyond for her students, helping them to be
successful inside and outside of the classroom and helping families find
the resources they need. Outside of school, she enjoys Yoga and Oil
Painting. Anne Jensen feels the staff, parents and children at Haggar are
like a true family and she feels could not do her job without each and
every person in the Rose Mary Haggar Elementary family.
vote in elections
once a year,
but when you
volunteer, you vote
every day about the
kind of community
you want to live in.”
Author Unknown
18
Sharmeen Jilla
Sharmeen Jilla, a mother of two boys attending Haggar Elementary, is
an outstanding role model that has demonstrated commitment to the
teachers, children, staff and community. Sharmeen has been part of the
PTA for six years serving as a Key Communicator, and also Campus
Activities Chair which includes After-School Enrichment. Sharmeen
is the current Haggar PTA President. She is an inspiration to working
mothers in the community - devoting her time to work, family and
school. Sharmeen strives to provide the highest advantages in physical,
mental, and social education. She has done this by spearheading many
initiatives to bring a variety of after-school and in-school programs
to the students, raising money and writing grants for educational
opportunities and uniting local business owners with the school to
bring a sense of community. Sharmeen is passionate that every child
has a voice and opportunity to grow and succeed. Haggar Elementary is
lucky to have such a dynamic advocate for our children.
Caroline Karl
Caroline Karl has been a teacher at Haggar Elementary and member of
the PTA for the last four years. She is one of the most enthusiastic and
energetic teachers. She is passionate about her work and about making
a difference in the lives of her students. Caroline has been instrumental
in providing students with technology based opportunities. She also
created the Rubik’s Cube after-school program and has, to date, taught
almost 150 students how to solve the cube. In addition, Caroline
created and spearheaded the Invention Fair school-wide program which
is currently in its second year. Caroline Karl has made a difference in
our local PTA by collaborating with the PTA on various STEM related
programs and events.
Richard Sciple
Richard Sciple, father of two, has been involved with the PTA at Haggar
for the last six years. Richard is a great role model as an involved Dad at
our school. He is always willing to pitch in at all fund-raisers, concerts
and school-wide programs, whether it be heavy lifting, clean-up,
manning the door or hauling water in the Dallas heat during Field Day.
Richard started on the Board as the Chair for the Safety and Wellness
Committee. He has continued to work with faculty to ensure fun and
successful Wellness Fairs for our students. He is an active member of the
Dad’s Club and “Watch Dogs” and is passionate about helping all kids at
the school. Whenever there is a evening event at the school, we are sure
to see Richard pitching in with anything or anyone that needs help. This
year Richard has continued to stay involved in PTA as one of our PISD
Key Communicators.
“
Nobody can do
everything, but
everyone can do
something.”
Author Unknown
19
HAUN ELEMENTARY
Michelle Culberson
Michelle is one of those volunteers that does so much for the school it
is hard to know if she is volunteering in some capacity or just helping
out from the kindness of her heart. She is a hard worker that really
just wants to give back and Haun Elementary has benefited from her
generosity for the past nine years. Michelle is currently serving as the
4th Grade-Level Co-Ordinator and also the Co-Coordinator of Family
Picnic. She has served as Grade-Level Co-Ordinator for 2nd, 3rd and
5th grades, as well as Room Parent Coordinator and Co-Ordinator for
Spirit Wear. Those are just the official titles! She has also volunteered
much of her time helping with Rock Hop as well as in the classroom.
Haun is lucky to have such a giving person as Michelle. When not at
Haun giving us her all, Michelle volunteers her time with Minnie’s Food
Pantry. She not only volunteers there, but is also a sponsor. Michelle
shares this honor with her husband, Bobbie, and her daughters, Bobbie
Rae (8th grade) and Tommie (4th grade).
Kathy Phillips
Talk about a go-getter! Kathy is a person you can really count on to
get the job done. Whether it is our beautifully updated website or
organizing our Rock Hop volunteers, Kathy has been, and will continue
to be, a huge asset to Haun Elementary PTA. Kathy currently serves as
our VP of Communication as well as our Webmaster. Over the past five
years Kathy has also held the Grade-Level Co-ordinator position for
Kindergarten through 4th grade. She has coordinated our volunteers
for Rock Hop, which is our biggest fundraiser of the year, as well as
volunteered her time and talent in the classroom. When she is not busy
helping at Haun, Kathy volunteers her time at her church where she has
helped with the children’s ministry as well as being a small group leader.
Kathy shares this honor with her husband, Brenton, and children, Preston
(5th grade) and Clara (1st grade).
Stacey Rudiger
“
No man stands so
straight as when
he stoops to help
a boy.”
Knights of
Pythagoras
20
Kindergarten loves Mrs. Rudiger! When you see the smiling faces of
the precious Kindergarteners at Haun Elementary you’d better believe
Mrs. Rudiger had something to do with it. Haun PTA knows that
having Stacey Rudiger as part of our school community is something
special. Here is what our principal, Jayne Smith, has to say about this
wonderful teacher - “Stacey Rudiger began teaching at Haun in 2005,
and she is currently the Team Leader for our Kindergarten Department.
Her dedication to her team and to the children at Haun is unmatched.
The classroom environment she provides and the Kindergarten area
she helps create is warm, nurturing and full of fun and learning. Mrs.
Rudiger works tirelessly to do what’s best for all students. Her innovative
techniques and strategies are shared throughout the District. We are
so proud and delighted she is receiving this award, as she is most
deserving. I am so grateful for the continual positive impacts she makes
at Haun.” Stacey shares this honor with her husband, Mark, and sons,
Brendon and Garrett.
Gina Yaquinto
Rain or shine, Gina is as dependable as they come! Gina has given her
time and talent to Haun Elementary over the past 10 years. She will be
sorely missed as our Field Day Coordinator - a position she has helped
with over the past five years!!! Because of her help and ingenuity our
Field Day has run smoothly, been well-organized and she has modified
it when needed. Even those times that rain chased Field Day inside, she
made sure the games and fun continued and that the students had a
blast! Gina is also helping with 5th grade Level-Coordinator this year and
her past positions have also included Hospitality Coordinator. When she
is not helping out at Haun, she volunteers with the Young Men’s Service
League with her older son. Gina shares this honor with her husband,
Carl, and her children, Luca (9th grade) and Milana (5th grade).
HIGHTOWER ELEMENTARY
Debbie Andrews
Debbie, a proud graduate of Plano High School - back before there were
any Senior Highs - has worked as a Teaching Assistant for 23 years.
All of those years have been within Plano Independent School District.
Debbie is currently in her eighth year at Hightower Elementary, and she
can be seen daily interacting with Hightower’s Special Needs students.
Her patience and love is evident for these students and she teaches
them as if they were her very own children. Debbie’s dedicated devotion
to these students is clearly seen each and every day and is deeply
appreciated by our Hightower Community. Debbie has been married to
her husband, Bobby, for 33 years. They are the proud parents of three
children and proud grandparents of three grandchildren. Outside of
work, Debbie enjoys crocheting, reading, and spending time with her
family. Debbie also volunteers with the Plano Kiwanis Club.
Becky Daggett
“
Dedicated, cheerful, weariless. These words describe Becky Daggett,
our Hightower Elementary “Go To” PTA President. Anytime, anywhere,
if you need her, she’s there! Becky is a born leader and volunteer
“extraordinaire”. Becky is very involved on our Hightower campus,
supporting all events and programs and always with a smile on her
face. In addition to being PTA President, Becky has served as Historian
and Spirit Wear Chair and has served on many committees, such
as Hospitality, Class Parties, Book Fair, Library, School Store, FifthGrade Celebration, Fifth-Grade Grade Camp Chaperone, and even
Kindergarten Lunch Helper. Becky also holds a PTA position at Frankford
Middle School that directly helps student athletes and their parents.
Becky has been married to her husband, Scott, for 23 years; and they
are the proud parents of two children. In addition to all this whirlwind
activity, she also teaches the Junior Chef Classes at Williams Sonoma in
Plano. Becky takes a very active role in her community, having previously
served as a Girl Scout Leader, Awanas Teacher, and MOPs (Mothers of
I am only one,
but I am one.
I cannot do
everything, but I
can do something.
And I will not let
what I cannot do
interfere with what
I can do.”
Edward Everett
Hale
21
Preschoolers) Director. She currently is very involved in her church. In
her spare time, Becky enjoys reading, movies, and crafts. Becky especially
loves being around her family and their crazy, furry pets.
Deidre Thomson
Deidre Thomson grew up in a very small town in Oklahoma, where
there were only six peer students with her in her Preschool to 8thgrade classes; where everyone knew her name and where everyone
looked out for her - from her teachers, other parents, and even the
school bus driver. Entering the very BIG world of high school, Deidre
later went on to graduate from college as a very proud Oklahoma
State University Cowboy. Deidre began her teaching career over twelve
years ago in Houston, Texas, and has been teaching Fourth-Grade
at Hightower Elementary School now for nine years. She has been
Hightower’s Spelling Bee Sponsor for many years. The children and
parents at Hightower Elementary sing her praises daily. Her dedication
to the education and well-being of our children is greatly appreciated
and noticed by all. Deidre is married to her husband, Kyle. They have
two dogs. Outside of work, Deidre loves making crafts, gardening, and
cozying up on the couch with a good book.
Chris White
Chris White is the proud father of four sons and husband of 18 years
to wife, Laura. Chris exemplifies the real meaning of “male role model.”
It is rare to have a “dad on campus,” serving as a PTA Chair. Hightower
Elementary School has been privileged to have Chris’ dedication and
commitment, to not only his children, but, to all the students in our
Hightower Family and the PISD Community. Chris has industriously
taken on his duties, many times setting events up in the early morning
hours. He has served as Bicycle Rodeo Chair, Field Day Chair, Tiger
Dads’ Chair, School Store, helped judge the Science Fair, and solicited
donations and worked as a general volunteer for many of these events.
Chris has also served as a sports coach over the last 18 years, coaching
his son, Damion’s, Red Sox team at Jackson Elementary, son, Dexter’s,
White Sox Team, son, Darwin’s, White Sox Team and son, Dermot’s, Red
Sox Team, the last three teams all being from Hightower Elementary. He
also coached the Hightower-based Raptors Basketball Team for son,
Dexter. In his spare time, Chris enjoys reading Sci-Fi and World War
Help one another; II History, and watching Walking Dead, Breaking Bad, and the Military
there’s no time like Channel on TV. Chris also loves traveling and exploring new places.
“
the present and
no present
like the time.”
James Durst
22
MITCHELL ELEMENTARY
Jeanne Abrams
Jeanne Abrams is in her tenth year working in the front office at Mitchell
Elementary. She likes to sew and read and take Yoga lessons. She has
always joined the PTA. Jeanne, herself, would ask, “Why wouldn’t you?”
When she lived in Solon, Ohio, she was one of the Coordinators for
the Roxbury Elementary PTA city-wide Budget Bin -- a city-wide garage
sale. Jeanne says, “You had to be there, it was so awesome!” She was also
a volunteer Teaching Assistant and Tutor. When Jeanne and her family
moved to Plano she was part of the elementary school weekly newsletter
distribution team. They called themselves the YO Mamas. Jeanne has
served as Welcome Chair for Renner Middle School and covered the
School Board meetings for Shepton High School. She loves to volunteer
and especially gets a thrill for the lots of little opportunities that come
by...as in when a friend calls her and asks for help and she can say, Yes,
she can! Jeanne also helped with her son, John’s, Boy Scout troop for
many years and was honored to serve as Committee Chairperson and
Eagle Coordinator. Jeanne is currently the Secretary for her Homeowners
Association. She has been married for 43 years to husband, Marty,
and has two children, Mark, who lives in Berlin and John, who is in
Washington DC in Graduate School. Jeanne looks upon all of our
students as her children. Jeanne strongly believes and demonstrates that
they are all deserving of our love and attention.
Donna Bauer
Donna Bauer is married to Mike Bauer and they have two children,
Andrew, a Sophomore at Shepton High School and Abby, a 5th grader,
at Mitchell Elementary. Donna is an active volunteer in her children’s
schools in many different areas. She has volunteered as a Room Mom
for a total of 10 years, served as the PTA Community Outreach Chair for
three years, the PTA Cultural Diversity Chair for one year, and worked in
the copy room at Frankford Middle school. Donna will happily jump in
wherever needed, and is always looking for ways to help others. Donna
currently attends Dallas Bible Church where she is actively involved in
the Children’s Ministry. She has served as the Vacation Bible School
Director for four years, Sunday School Teacher, Children’s Small Group
Leader, and as a Nursery Volunteer. She is also involved in a Mom’s in
Prayer ministry for both Shepton and Mitchell. Donna has also given
back to the community by volunteering as a Cub Scout Leader for five
years and this is her third year to volunteer as her daughter’s American
Heritage Girls Leader. She has also volunteered for three years by
working with Refugees. Donna strives and succeeds in bringing a light
of hope to everyone she comes into contact with, and does it all with a
servant’s heart.
“
Being good is
commendable,
but only when it
is combined with
doing good
is it useful.”
Author Unknown
23
Lisa Dobrient
Lisa Dobrient has been a PTA member since 2006, and on the Mitchell
Elementary PTA Board since 2008. She has held several Board positions:
Treehouse/Meteor Press (Literary Program), Book Fair, Carnival Co-Chair,
and PTA President for the past two years. Lisa has served many years as
a Room Parent, Grade-Level Coordinator, and Front Office helper. She
is always ready to lend a helping and very creative hand. She brings
with her a lot of enthusiasm and is never shy to put on a costume to
advertise an event. You will also find her loving family attending and
volunteering at Mitchell events, even when Lisa is unable to attend. It is
apparent that Lisa LOVES Mitchell! Her enthusiasm and volunteer time
does not stop there. Lisa also serves on Frankford Middle School’s PTA
Board. She has been a volunteer at St. Rita Church in their Vacation
Bible School Program for six years, a National Charity League member
for three years and NCL Board member for one year. Lisa’s hobbies are
reading, running, traveling and shopping (she loves to shop!). Lisa has
been married to husband, Judge, for 20 years. They have three children;
Claudia - 9th Grade, William - 7th Grade, and Camille - 2nd Grade.
Sonia Labay
“
The broadest,
and maybe the
most meaningful
Sonia Labay has been on staff at Mitchell Elementary since August,
2000. Mrs. Labay teaches Kindergarten so lovingly, and confidently
and in such a way to make little ones feel safe in their new school
environment. Mrs. Labay has also helped many young children build
a strong and steady foundation for school years to come. She smiles,
encourages, and nurtures the children, and truly enjoys teaching. Sonia
speaks softly, but is no pushover. She teaches these young children
in a way that is very much appreciated by their parents and her coworkers. Mitchell Elementary is the only school she has taught at
since moving to Plano. She enjoys volunteering for the many outside
activities that Mitchell has to offer. Sonia’s hobbies include working out,
reading, visiting bookstores, watching sports, visiting coffee houses and
discovering new restaurants. She has been married to her husband, Paul,
for 16 years.
definition of
volunteering:
Doing more than
you have to
because you want
to, in a cause you
consider good.”
Ivan Scheier
24
WYATT ELEMENTARY
Fran Maakestad
Wyatt Elementary is honored to present Fran Maakestad the Texas PTA
Honorary Life Membership Award. This year marks Fran’s 33rd year of
teaching and 21st year with PISD. As the Lead Second Grade teacher at
Wyatt, she is lauded for gently guiding her team in the right direction
when planning curriculum or projects. They can always count on her
to follow through on her commitments. She is open to new ideas,
welcomes change, and is a very organized and skilled teacher. Her
second grade team absolutely loves her! Fran goes the extra mile to
help all of her students grow and progress. Not only do her students
love her by her patient and caring approach, but she has a wonderful
rapport with Wyatt parents. She is also highly trusted and respected by
the staff as well as her students. Fran is a graduate of the University of
Northern Iowa with a degree in Elementary Education and a Minor in
Music. She received her Master’s Degree from Texas Woman’s University.
Fran has taught first, second, and third grades. She loves all levels, but
second grade is her favorite. Fran and her husband, Randy, have two
children, Katie and Matthew. Her hobbies include singing with her
church choir, running, cycling, skiing, and spending time with her family.
Congratulations to Fran on this well-deserved achievement!
Tammie McCarra
Wyatt Elementary is honored to present Tammie McCarra the Texas PTA
Honorary Life Membership Award. Nurse Tammie has been the school
Nurse at Wyatt Elementary since it opened 13 years ago. The children
and staff absolutely love her. Despite being consistently busy every day,
she is so very patient and always cheerful. Tammie is very dedicated
to supporting and caring for her students and staff and always goes
above and beyond what is expected of her position. Tammie is a great
team player and voluntarily helps around the school and front office
whenever something is needed. She is very medically knowledgeable
and we know our school is in great hands with her as school Nurse.
Highlighting her leadership and commitment to providing great care
for students, Tammie was chosen to be a Team Leader for a group of
Nurses in the district. In this role Tammie provides both guidance to
the Nurses and completion of their evaluations each semester. Ever
busy with her “full plate”, she never complains and maintains the most
positive attitude. Prior to serving at Wyatt, Tammie spent most of her
Nursing career as a Cardiology Nurse in the CCU (Coronary Care Unit).
She is married and has two children. Congratulations to Tammie on this
well-deserved achievement!
Lisa Mendiola
“
Wyatt Elementary is honored to present Lisa Mendiola the Texas PTA
Honorary Life Membership Award. Lisa is truly dedicated to ensuring we
do everything possible to enrich the lives and education of our students.
Unless someone
She is particularly hard-working, dependable, and organized in fulfilling
her various volunteer duties at Wyatt. Aside from helping out with daylike you cares a
to-day school activities, Lisa has served on the Garden, Environmental,
whole awful lot,
Spring Fling & Auction, and Girl’s Social Committees. She has also
contributed significantly through her roles on the PTA Board. She served nothing is going to
as PTA Board President for two years and Treasurer for two years, and
get better.
was completely devoted to both of these time-consuming positions. In
her current role as Communications Chair, she does a tremendous job
It’s not.”
coordinating all PTA communications through social media, our website,
Dr. Seuss
and school newsletter. Through her commitment and passion, Lisa has
earned the trust and respect of fellow board members, many parents,
and the Wyatt staff. She is wonderfully passionate about her roles and
exemplifies true leadership and mentor-ism. Her peers are consistently
amazed by her diligence and endless willingness to step in to help
25
or answer questions. Outside of Wyatt, Lisa serves as her 6th grade
daughter’s Girl Scout Cadette Troop Leader. She also enjoys her career
as a Physical Therapist as well as cooking, reading, Yoga and gardening.
She has been married to her husband, Victor, for 17 years, and they
have two daughters, Eva and Lauren (ages 10 and 12 respectively).
Congratulations to Lisa on this well-deserved achievement!
Esther Rutnam
Wyatt Elementary is honored to present Esther Rutnam with the Texas
PTA Honorary Life Membership Award. Esther is an extremely caring,
hard-working, and driven individual who works unceasingly to support
Wyatt’s students and staff through her volunteer and fundraising efforts.
Over the past five years, she has committed her time and effort in
numerous ways. In her second year as the PTA Board’s VP of Ways and
Means, she is directing the PTA’s efforts to raise funds through auctions
and sponsorship. She led Wyatt’s Technology Campaign this fall, which
raised over $20,000 to purchase classroom tablets. This is a truly
remarkable achievement. Previously, Esther has served Wyatt as Fine Arts
Chair and other volunteer positions. As the Auction Chair for Wyatt’s
Spring Fling event for four years running, Esther has helped raise a total
of close to $40,000 for Wyatt programs and services. She is well-loved
by the entire PTA Board and Wyatt staff and they are amazed at her
kindness and willingness to go above and beyond in our fundraising
efforts. Professionally, Esther has a background in Fundraising/Corporate
Events/Sponsorship for non-profit organizations. She previously worked
as a Fundraising Manager (Corporate Events/Sponsorship) for hospitals
in Toronto before moving to Plano 10 years ago with her husband,
Samuel. When her first son started school at Wyatt, Esther was really
excited to use her professional skills to assist in PTA fundraising efforts.
In addition to devoting her time to Wyatt and caring for her two sons,
Henry (4th grade) and Daniel (Kindergarten), she works part-time
teaching music at Montessori schools. Esther enjoys music, traveling,
and Interior Design, and is also a pianist who has accompanied church
choirs. Congratulations to Esther on this well-deserved achievement!
“
FRANKFORD MIDDLE SCHOOL
Tracey Goetsch
Tracey is the mother of five, and began volunteering when her oldest
child started school in 1993! She joined PTA, first, when she lived in
Connecticut, and, then in Texas after moving here in 2009. Tracey
Act as if what
has been a member of the Hightower, Haggar, Frankford, Shepton, and
you do makes a
Plano West PTAs – and Yes, even three PTAs at one time for a while! Her
difference. It does.” volunteer activities have ranged far and wide – anything she could say
“yes “ to, she did – Library, Supply Room, Schedule Pick-Up, Field Day,
William James
Science Fair judging, teaching yoga, Party Mom, etc.… She enjoyed and
felt privileged to chaperone trips to zoos, museums, and aquariums;
to Orchestra performances, Science centers, amusement parks, Band
competitions, and 5th grade Camp. Tracey has always felt that she has
26
gotten as much, if not more, from her volunteer experiences. She loves
having all of the wonderful opportunities to get to know her childrens’
friends and classmates, and cherishes the days of being known as
Katharine, Clara, Sam, Chloe and Anna’s mom! Tracey is currently
serving as the PTA Treasurer at Frankford Middle School. It is her first
Board position, and she has been thankful for all of the understanding,
support, and surprising amounts of laughter and fun she gets from this
outstanding group of people.
Amy Phillips
Amy Phillips started her volunteer career as a weekly Library Volunteer
and Room Mom at Rose Mary Haggar Elementary School in 2009.
Over the years, she has helped as Room Mom, Student Mentor, Copy
room, class field trip chaperone and assisted the PTA Treasurer. Amy
has volunteered at all major fund-raising events, including the Mariner
Merchant program. She has served on numerous committees and in
several leadership positions including: two years as Arts-in-Education
Chair. Currently at Frankford Middle School, Amy is the 1st VP of
Programs, working with a talented team of Chairs and Administrator’s to
bring relevant information and programs to students and parents, along
with recognizing outstanding academic achievement through Frankford’s
Fabulous Falcons. At Frankford, Amy has served as Arts-in-Education
Chair, and on the Financial Audit, Election and Scholarship Committees.
Amy works full-time as Director of Staffing for the Golden Corral
Corporation, but feels strongly about giving back to the community.
Due to her work position, Amy has been a speaker at many schools
for Career Days, served as an Ambassador for the hospitality industry
and, for over a decade, has been a National Judge at ProStart. ProStart
is a High School program designed and supported by the National
Restaurant Association Education Foundation. The purpose of the
program is to work with educators in providing quality curriculum that
teaches students fundamental Cooking, Marketing, Human Resources,
Budgeting and Management skills. Students can also participate in local,
state and national competitions for millions of dollars in educational
scholarships. The competitions are a cross between Shark Tank and Top
Chef. Amy enjoys working with and encouraging students of all ages
and feel the PTA is a wonderful vehicle to support our communities.
Amy has loving support and encouragement from her husband, William,
and 13-year-old son, Aidan, who is in the seventh-grade at Frankford.
Marette Watson
Marette began her involvement with PTA in 2002 when her first child
started Kindergarten at Mendenhall Elementary. Spending many nights
at home cutting and pasting “manipulatives” for teachers, she also
volunteered at lunch, and assisted other PTA moms as needed. Through
the opportunities afforded her by working with students and educators,
Marette found her true calling. She left the Business world to obtain
her Teaching Certification while serving as the PTA President, Treasurer,
Grade-Level Coordinator, PISD Council of PTA’s Newsletter Chairman
“
The purpose of life
is not to be happy
- but to matter,
to be productive,
to be useful, to
have it make some
difference that you
have lived at all.”
Leo Rosten
27
and Substitute Teacher, all at Mendenhall. As her children progressed
through PISD, Marette and her husband, Steve, were active PTA members
at Bowman, Otto and Williams. Today, she and her husband continue
to serve at Frankford Middle School, where Marette now teaches and
at Plano East Senior High, where their son is a student. Volunteering is
a part of Marette’s life. She started as a young girl by volunteering at a
local hospital with her mother and two sisters on Saturday mornings.
Her mother instilled the value of the “giving back of your talents” and
Marette carries those values and love for volunteering with her today, by
supporting clubs and organizations her children are involved in, tutoring
students before and after school, collaborating with fellow educators,
working with outside organizations and volunteering for various
activities on the Frankford campus. She is rewarded by the smiles, and
personal connections created from those she serves. Marette is in her
ninth year as a Math teacher working with 7th- and 8th-grade students
and has served as Department Chair for the past three years. Marette’s
inspiration, along the way, has been by past and present students as well
as former and fellow educators (at Bowman and at Frankford) and she
is so grateful for Frankford Middle School’s PTA, who overwhelmingly
supports the staff through their volunteer work at the school each and
every day. Marette has been married to her husband, and fellow Texas
Aggie, Steve, for thirty-two years. They are the proud parents of Kendra,
Plano East 2012 graduate and upcoming Spring 2016 Texas A&M
graduate; and Collin, a Plano East Senior, Varsity Swimmer and Spring
2016 graduate. Marette’s family is rounded out by their rescue dogs
and cats (Sadie & Ellie and Loui & Vagabond, respectively) as well as a
variety of lizards and even a turtle!
Lisa Youngblood
“
How wonderful
it is that nobody
need wait a single
moment before
starting to improve
the world.”
Anne Frank
28
Lisa has been involved with PTA since 1997 when her daughters were
both students attending Jackson Elementary. During their Elementary
School years, Lisa was also a Field Day volunteer. At Frankford Middle
School, she volunteered in the Counseling Office. In 2002, Lisa was not
only a PTA member, but also became a member of the Frankford Middle
School staff as a Teaching Assistant in the Learning Lab. Working with
students on a daily basis and engaging them in their learning made her
decide to pursue a college education to become a classroom teacher.
With her daughters’ in high school, Lisa left Frankford in order to pursue
college on a full-time basis. While attending college, she continued her
involvement with the Frankford community by volunteering in Special
Education classrooms. Upon completion of her degree, and in need
of a place to do her student teaching, Lisa again returned to Frankford
Middle School. When her student teaching had been completed,
Lisa was offered a position as a 7th grade Language Arts teacher, at
Frankford, which she happily accepted. Lisa’s heart is here at Frankford.
Her love for the school began with her daughters and their friends
and has grown into a love for the diverse population of students and
teachers that have become her family.
RENNER MIDDLE SCHOOL
Kevin Kelln
Coach Kelln came to Renner Middle School, 18 months ago, as our
new Athletic Director. Since then, his philosophy and work ethic have
spread throughout the entire Athletic and PE department. His presence
has been inspirational. He has not only lifted up the department and
the athletes in the program, but has also made some visible changes
within the gym. Where there were once bare walls, the gym now proudly
displays the many accomplishments of the Renner Mustangs. He has
taken it upon himself to implement fundraisers to update the equipment
and the supplies for the student athletes in the program while, at
the same time, assisting them in setting goals. Coach Kelln makes
a substantial difference in the lives of our children by encouraging
student athletes to be role models in and outside of school. He instills
a sense of respect in his athletes by asking them to greet teachers as
they enter their classrooms and thanking them when they leave. This
is a Coach who attentively focuses on the kids that need improvement
while recognizing the kids that excel. He honors the student athletes by
being flexible & allowing them and encouraging them to attend other
school clubs such as FCA. He also stresses education and encourages
tutorials. Coach Kelln has voluntarily paid the PTA memberships for his
employees that need the extra help and he supports the PTA by asking
his vendors to give back 10% to PTA. He does anything and everything
FOR or in support of the PTA Coach Kelln expects excellence inside
and outside the classroom. It is obvious he instills this philosophy in his
athletes and in his own everyday life. Coach Kelln is an asset to Renner,
our students, our PTA and our community.
Nancy Mills
Nancy has been a PTA member for seven years. Despite being new to
Renner this year, she took on the Treasurer position, one of the largest,
most time-consuming and important jobs on the Renner Board. She
is quite experienced though as she served as Treasurer for Huffman
If you want to
Elementary for two years before joining the Renner Board. Nancy has
also served behind the scenes in various roles including Grade-Level
touch the past,
Coordinator, Book Fair, and School Store. She has served in several other
touch a rock. If you
volunteer positions as the needs dictated. Her current role as Treasurer
requires many hours weekly, and often daily, all while managing a
want to touch the
full-time day job and helping in the community where needed. Nancy
present, touch a
recently took time off of her daytime job to be a speaker at Career Day
at Renner to share her career, trade experiences and the demands of
flower. If you want
a successful career woman. Outside of her busy career and full-time
PTA job, she still manages to dedicate and prioritize family time. We are to touch the future,
honored to recognize Nancy Mills with the Lifetime Member Award for
touch a life.”
her hard work and dedication to making a difference in the lives of our
Author Unknown
children and youth.
“
29
RICE MIDDLE SCHOOL
Shannon Hodges
Rice Middle School is pleased to honor Shannon Hodges as a 201516 Texas PTA Life Member. Shannon and her husband, Will, have four
children who have attended Plano schools. She has served on multiple
local PTA boards as Legislative Representative, Council Delegate,
Secretary, and First Vice President. She volunteered as a Room Mom for
many years, and has served as the Partnership Coordinator. Shannon
also enjoys serving the community alongside her children through
National Charity League and Young Men’s Service League. In her spare
time, she loves to spend time with her husband and four children ages
20, 17, 14, and 12. She also likes to snow ski, travel, exercise, walk her
dog, and attend her children’s events.
Rocio Martinez-Mendoza
Rice Middle School is pleased to honor Rocio Martinez-Mendoza as
a Texas PTA Lifetime Member. Señora Martinez, as she is known to her
students, is originally from Mexico. She has been a Spanish teacher
at Rice for four years and also leads the Muslim Student Association
on campus. Last year, she sponsored a group of Science students as
they developed the national award-winning Mind Glass APP, which
helps those with dyslexia. She was also a 2015 recipient for the Plano
ISD Education Foundation Grant to Educators for creating a foreign
language classroom library using children’s books. Señora Martinez loves
to learn and find ways to become a better teacher, a better mom, and a
better human being. In her spare time, Rocio enjoys spending time with
her husband, and three children, ages 13, 9, and 10 months. She also
loves to camp and hike with her family, watch movies, cook, and travel.
ROBINSON MIDDLE SCHOOL
Susan Baer
“
Kindness is the
language which
the deaf can hear
and the
blind can see.”
Mark Twain
30
Susan Baer has been an active member of the PTA and an instrumental
volunteer at Gulledge Elementary and Robinson Middle School for
10 years. She has served as Kindergarten Coordinator, First-Grade
Coordinator, School Supply Chair, Room Parent, Treasurer, VP Volunteers,
Fifth-Grade Camp Chaperon, and Fifth-Grade Celebration Coordinator at
Gulledge. At Robinson, Susan served as Secretary and is currently on the
Executive Board as VP Communications. She is very well organized and
does an outstanding job keeping PTA members informed. She is viewed
by others as a mentor. Her respect for the teachers, administration, and
PTA has made volunteering an enriching experience for her and she has
met some amazing people along the way. Susan is very active with her
daughter’s gymnastics team, the Plano Aerobats, where she serves as
Treasurer of the Booster Club. Between being a mom and volunteering
innumerable hours, Susan enjoys cooking, quilting, and kickboxing.
Susan is very deserving of this year’s award. She is married to supportive
husband, Greg, and she has two great children, Zoe and Cooper.
Kimberly Hernandez
Kimberly Hernandez graduated Summa Cum Laude from Ohio
University with a Bachelor’s Degree in Music Education. She continued
her studies at Southern Methodist University’s Meadows School of the
Arts, earning a Master of Music Degree in Instrumental Conducting.
She credits her middle school and high school Band Directors for her
pursuit of a teaching career. Kimberly has been teaching Band for 22
years, 21 of which have been at Robinson Middle School. As the lead
Director of Bands, she feels blessed to have been at the same school
for so many years. Kimberly is very patient with her students from their
first day in Band and continuing throughout their middle school years.
She loves her job and it shows by the number of countless hours she
spends teaching, coaching, supporting, and encouraging her students.
It is with this dedication that the Band program at Robinson is awardwinning each year. In addition to teaching, Kimberly has Co-Directed
the Philharmonic for the past six years. She loves to spend the weekends
at her son’s baseball tournaments and enjoys reading and relaxing by
the pool in the summer. Kimberly is honored to receive and share this
award with her husband, Michael, and her son, Anthony.
Sharon Roth
Sharon Roth has been a devoted member of the PTA since 2007.
During the last eight years she has volunteered in many capacities at
Daffron Elementary and Robinson Middle School. At Daffron, she was
a Room Parent every year for both of her children, Lead Room Parent
in First-Grade, School Supplies Co-Chair for four years, Bike Rodeo
Co-Chair for three years, Jog- A-Thon co-chair, Fifth-Grade Lead, Parent
Committee, Fifth-Grade Camp Chaperon twice, Deputy Press volunteer,
Teacher Workroom volunteer, Cultural Diversity volunteer, Library Helper
for two years, Colonial Day Lead Team twice, and Back-to-School Bash
Co-Chair two years. Sharon has been the Hospitality Co-Chair on
the Robinson PTA Board for the last three years, where she organizes
monthly events such as Back-to-School Lunch, Teacher Breakfast,
Holiday Lunch, Pie Day, Casserole Day, Teacher Appreciation week,
and Valentine’s Treats. We are very proud to honor her this year. It is
amazing that one person can be as organized, diligent, and dedicated
to volunteering while working a full-time job. She is an inspiration to all
of us. Sharon also serves her community through the National Charity
League and Temple Shalom. When she has free time, Sharon enjoys
playing Mah Jongg with friends, traveling, and baking. She celebrates this
award with her husband, Brad, and her two girls, Ellie and Abby.
“
How far that little
candle throws his
beams! So shines
a good deed in a
naughty world.”
William
Shakespeare,
Merchant
of Venice
31
JASPER HIGH SCHOOL
Linda Leavell
Linda has been an asset to our Jasper High School PTA for many years.
She has been the Co-chair of teacher treats for the past two years. She
has always volunteered to cook/bake for our team of teachers. Linda
works extensively with the Choir Boosters at Jasper and Plano West.
She also served as Webmaster at Robinson. She helps out in a myriad
of ways. Linda has even chaperoned an exhausting trip to Six Flags that
her children did not even attend. We appreciate everything she does for
our PTSA.
Lisa Morse
Lisa Morse has been a teacher for 22 years and has been a teacher at
Jasper High School for 20 of those years. She was Teacher-of -The-Year
in 2012 and is a wonderful Math teacher. Lisa is very involved with her
students and cares about them doing well. She encourages her students
to be the best that they can be, and also tutors former students,
instructing them in such a way that they are encouraged to put forth
their best effort. She teaches them to strive for excellence, not perfection.
Parents and students alike benefit from her teaching style and positive
attitude. We are lucky to have her at Jasper.
JoLynn Rude
JoLynn has been active in PTAs for the past 11 years at Gulledge,
Robinson, and Jasper. Although she had worked full time in a high stress
job as a CFO/Controller, she took days off monthly to volunteer, helping
out in the front office or wherever there was a need. She is an expert
on spreadsheets and has helped with complicated projects throughout
the years. JoLynn was the Book Fair Chairman at Gulledge for two years.
She took on the role of Recommended Reading Chair at Jasper. She has
put in many, many hours ordering, organizing, packaging, selling and
inventorying our reading books this year. She also helped on multiple
days for our Fall JagFest. We appreciate her hard work and dedication.
“
The smallest act
of kindness is
worth more than
the grandest
intention.”
Oscar Wilde
32
SHEPTON HIGH SCHOOL
Eric Neal
Eric Neal was selected for this Award for his dedication to impacting
the lives of the students he works with at Shepton High School. As a
Special Education teacher, Eric supports, encourages, and challenges
his students to constantly set and reach their goals. As a coach, Eric
teaches as much about Athletics as he does to develop young men of
good character. Coach Neal is passionate about his work and is driven
to help each and every student reach their potential. We are so fortunate
and privileged to have Coach Neal as part of our Shepton High School
family and our PTSA is proud to present him with a Texas PTA Life
Membership Award. Coach Neal is supported by his loving wife, Jennifer.
Janice LaRue
Janice LaRue has been an involved PTA member for many years and
has served in multiple positions at all of her children’s schools. In
addition to her PTA involvement, Janice also served on the Plano ISD
Academy Visioning Committee, is involved in Boy Scouts and in other
Community Service organizations. Janice is currently involved in our
Shepton Athletics Booster Club and not only helped to develop their
website, but also maintains it. Shepton High School PTSA is honored to
present the Texas PTA Life Membership Award to Janice LaRue for her
many years of commitment to our children. Janice is supported by her
husband, Jim, and children, James, a Junior at Plano West Senior High
School, and Jake, a Freshman at Shepton High School.
PLANO WEST SENIOR HIGH SCHOOL
James Hannah
James Hannah is the Director of Bands for Plano West Senior High
School. During his career, he has influenced thousands of students.
Through countless early morning practices, he has demonstrated the
value of hard work and a commitment to excellence. Mr. Hannah’s
Concert and Marching Bands’ have consistently received first-division
ratings at the Texas University Interscholastic League. The Wind Ensemble
has won several national music festival awards. Mr. Hannah’s Jazz Bands
have also won numerous ensemble and individual student awards.
Hannah’s Jazz Band students have performed for several Grammy
Award-Winning Artists. These artists have included Wynton Marsalis,
The Yellowjackets, Take Six, and Spyro Gyra. Mr. Hannah was selected
for Who’s Who Among America Teachers (1994, 1998, 2002, 2004,
2005, 2006, 2007), Garland ISD Secondary Teacher-of-the-Year (1994),
Naaman Forest High School Teacher-of-the-Year (1994), and Outstanding
Young Men of America (1986). In addition to being a Band Director, Mr.
Hannah also served as the Color Guard instructor for The University of
North Texas, The University of Texas at Arlington, and The University of
Southern Mississippi. Plano West Senior High School PTA is honored to
present Mr. James Hannah with the Texas PTA Life Membership Award.
“
The only people
with whom you
should try to get
even are those who
have helped you.”
John E. Southard
33
ISAACS EARLY CHILDHOOD
Gilda Paxman
Gilda Paxman has spent many years as a parent and staff member
supporting the PTA. At Isaacs Early Childhood School, she is the Parent
Liaison and works with second-language families by organizing various
classes and programs. Gilda oversees the Food for Kids program and
the Operation School Bell program. She organizes computer classes,
English classes, cooking workshops and parenting classes. She also helps
second-language families with the Parent Portal and Ready Rosie. She
is a tremendous help in assisting local families in need. Gilda makes
a difference at Isaacs because of her relationship with the parents and
students and her willingness to always go superlatively above and
beyond to help others. This is a well-deserved recognition for our own
Gilda Paxman.
BARRON ELEMENTARY
Rose Barnes
Nurse Rose has been at Barron Elementary School for seven years. She
has worked in Pediatrics for the last 27 years and has dedicated her life
to the care of others. Barron is very blessed to have Nurse Rose at our
school. She is caringly compassionate to her “patients” and their parents.
When her Barron students are not feeling well, she continuously goes
out of her way to help make them feel better. Rose always supports
the Barron Elementary PTA with her willingness to help at events. She
is married and enjoys spending time with her two children and two
grandsons. Our PTA is pleased and honored to present Nurse Rose with
this Texas PTA Life Membership Award.
Matthew Clark
Matthew Clark received a Bachelor’s Degree from the School of
Architecture at Texas A&M University, and he earned his Teacher
Certification in Mathematics from Sam Houston State University. He has
been teaching for seventeen years in Texas, the last twelve of those years
in the Plano Independent School District (PISD). Mr. Clark has taught
2nd, 3rd and 4th Grades. He is currently an Instructional Specialist
So shines a good
working with 3rd and 4rth graders at Barron Elementary. Matthew is
deed in a weary
a cheerful volunteer at our PTA events and jumps in to help wherever
there is a need. His dedication to education and to the success of his
world”
students is second to none. Barron PTA is pleased and honored to
by David Seltzer for present Matthew with a Texas PTA Life Membership Award.
“
the 1971 film Willy
Wonka and the
Chocolate Factory
34
Mandie Faugeaux
Mandie Faugeaux is always willing to help when it comes to PTA.
She stepped up when Barron Elementary PTA needed a President and
she hit the ground running, accompanied by an infant in tow (her
little Co-President). Mandie also held the VP Membership position
simultaneously that year. She took charge of fundraisers, coordinated
the school supply packets, helped with class parties, Book Fairs and
other school events. Mandie is a great leader who understands how
important it is to be involved in her children’s academic lives. She is
a work-at-home wife and also a mommy to three beautiful children,
ages four months, two years, and seven years, whom she calls her
little FaugMonsters. Aside from PTA and school volunteering, some
of Mandie’s passions include crocheting, hairstyling and coloring,
and anything to do with computers. Although her seven-year-old no
longer attends Barron Elementary School, Mandie is still a member of
our Barron PTA and has continued to help whenever needed! She is
well-deserving of the PTA Life Member Award and we are pleased and
honored to present it to her.
BOGGESS ELEMENTARY
AntréShawn Buhl
AntréShawn Buhl’s mission in life is to be well-rounded while serving,
sharing, growing, and developing others through her talents. She also
strives to live a well-balanced life that includes helping others shape
themselves emotionally, physically, and spiritually. As an Elementary
Educator for the past 11 years, Antre’Shawn has both generated,
established and engaged in new opportunities for students through
mentoring programs. She spends hours of personal time each week
impacting others through tutoring, mentoring, inspiring teachers, and
being a Life Group Leader at her church in Plano. Her love for dance
has allowed Antre’Shawn the opportunity to create and partake in
dance routines for members of her home church and for children in the
schools. She believes in and lives by the motto “Go, Dance, Win”. Boggess
Elementary PTA is pleased to present AntréShawn with this award.
Amy Hemphill
For many years, Amy Hemphill has been a part of the Boggess
Elementary PTA Executive Board and Leadership team. Currently, Amy
is finishing her second year as President. She has also been a Room
Parent and Community Outreach Coordinator. In the last few years,
she has worked unceasingly to make the Elementary school experience
a positive one for the many children who walk through the doors of
Boggess Elementary. Amy still holds a Texas Teacher Certificate and is
also a Certified Counselor. Outside of the school setting, Amy uses
her gifts and talents to volunteer as a Volleyball coach, and has been
involved in many Girl Scout activities (including serving as Cookie
Mom). Boggess PTA has been fortunate to have Amy as a leader and is
proud to extend this award to this deserving recipient.
“
Appreciation is a
wonderful thing.
It makes what is
excellent in others
belong to us as
well.” Voltaire
35
Erin Pietrasik
Erin Pietrasik has been a volunteer at Boggess Elementary for several
years. She is an amazing volunteer with undeniable energy for engaging
children, and, provides them with fun and enriching experiences. At the
Elementary school, she coordinated volunteers for the Library and ran a
very successful Scholastic Book Fair. In addition, Erin finds the time to
be a Children’s Liturgy Leader and a Fourth-Grade Religious Education
Teacher at St. Jude Catholic Church, in Allen, TX. She also prepares and
leads Vacation Bible School there every summer. Erin has been a Troop
Leader for Girl Scouts and offers Leadership support to the North Texas
Girl Scout Region. She and her family have been pleased to host a
foreign exchange student in their home through an organization called
YFU (Youth For Understanding). Boggess Elementary PTA is fortunate to
have Erin as a part of our community and honored to present her with
this award.
DOOLEY ELEMENTARY
Sheila Freeman
“
How beautiful
a day can be
When kindness
touches it!”
George Elliston
36
Sheila’s calm presence and positive leadership as Dooley Elementary
PTA President invigorates and fortifies Dooley’s PTA. During weekends
and summer breaks, Sheila works hard to boost school productivity by
planning events that will increase student educational growth, parental
commitment, and staff satisfaction. She uses her charismatic gift to make
every parent, volunteer, and student feel heard and important. As a
Room Mom and Grade-Level Coordinator, Sheila provides an exemplary
example of inclusiveness and volunteer spirit. All children are important
to her, and she endeavors to consider the welfare of every student on
campus. During her role as Communication’s Chair, she reintroduced the
school newsletter to facilitate school-to-parent communication. As an
efficient organizer, Sheila has planned numerous events, including the Fall
Picnic, School Carnival, Family Movie Night, Field Day, Hospitality, field
trips, and countless fundraising events. Her altruistic nature motivates her
to volunteer as a school mentor and participate actively in Food 4 Kids.
When Sheila manages to get time for herself, she loves laughing with
friends, rocking out to cool music, and camping with her family.
Kelli Smith
Kelli Smith, most often referred to as “Coach Smith,” demonstrates a
diligent dedication to student physical health and fitness performance.
When students enter the gymnasium, they are greeted with Coach
Smith’s infectious smile and infinite energy. She encourages individual
growth and achievement through creative games, activities, and goals.
Kelli endeavors to help her students attain a positive and hopeful
outlook of themselves and the world around them. As a result,
students from Kindergarten through 5th Grade love Coach Smith
and Physical Education. Her innate empathy endears her to students,
coworkers, parents, and friends. The Dooley PTA can always count on
Kelli for support. Her brilliant visions for Field Day continue to wow
faculty, volunteers, and students. For over twenty years, she has actively
supported the PTA by volunteering as Hospitality Coordinator, classroom
parent, and fieldtrip chaperone. Outside of her daily commitments, Kelli
teaches Sunday School at First Baptist McKinney, participates in Young
Men’s Service League (YMSL) community service projects with her son,
and volunteers for the TAPHERD organization. Family is crucial to Kelli’s
life, and she enjoys attending sporting events and church activities with
her husband and children.
Cassandra Snider
Adored by students, parents, and fellow teachers, Cassie Snider has been
a legendary fixture at Dooley Elementary since 2001. Through kindness,
encouragement, and heartfelt motivation, she is a shining example of an
educator who leaves an everlasting effect on her students. Even years
later, when Cassie’s students graduate from high school, their college
scholarship essays are filled with how she impacted their lives. The
stories of happy memories, loving acceptance, and powerful motivation
would bring you to tears. She is simply loved by all who meet her.
Outside of school, Cassie is known for her service in the Junior League,
Animal Rescue organizations, and assisting adults with disabilities. She
loves spending time with her grandchildren, and enjoys gardening, and
working in all mediums of art.
HICKEY ELEMENTARY
Carolyn Crumpton
Carolyn Crumpton originally began working with PTA when her
daughters were in Elementary school. She made great friends and
enjoyed working with all of the children. She, then, started working
at Hickey Elementary when her granddaughter, Avery, enrolled in
Kindergarten. Carolyn worked in several positions including Book
Fair, Spirit Store, Field Day, Teachers’ Luncheon, and anything else she
thought she could do to help. As each school year passed, she really
enjoyed seeing all of the children change and grow. Carolyn especially
admires all of the Teachers, Office Assistants, Principals, and all of the
other people involved in the educational process. She commends the
dedication and hard work they give to all of the children. Carolyn is
proud to have two daughters in the Teaching Profession; One is a
5th-grade teacher at Hickey Elementary and her oldest daughter is a
2nd-grade teacher at Carlisle Elementary. Even her son-in-law is involved Volunteers are love
in PISD schools. He is a Coach at Murphy Middle School. Carolyn has
in motion! “
three wonderful grandchildren who attend Hickey Elementary, Avery in
Author Unknown
3rd grade, and twins, Peyton and Cullen, in Kindergarten. Carolyn was
honored when she learned she was an Award recipient. Carolyn thanks
the Hickey PTA and says, “It really means a lot to me.”
“
37
Kattia Prado
Kattia Prado has served at Hickey Elementary for several years in
Translation, Book Fair, Workroom, Classroom and Library Volunteer and
currently as our PTA President. She has also served in two other schools.
Within Hickey Elementary, one of her current goals is to get parents to
volunteer and participate in the school. Kattia believes in the importance
of parents working together with the school as a team, and the great
impact that it has in the success of the children. Kattia has a first-grader
in Hickey and a 6th-grader in Armstrong Middle School. Kattia lives in
Plano with her husband, Jose and her two children. She enjoys playing
the Piano everyday and singing Karaoke’ with her family and friends. She
also likes Reading, and practicing Archery.
Amy Rattleff
Amy Rattleff has been an active PTA Board Member since her son
started attending Hickey Elementary in 2012. After her husband served
as a “WatchDOG”, Amy saw, first-hand, the importance and value of
having male role-models on the school campus. Since the Elementary
program was virtually non-existent at the beginning, she assumed
the duties of “WatchDOGS” Coordinator and executed an extremely
successful year with 27 volunteers. She enjoys working with the dads
and helping them to be involved and engaged in the classroom
and school. Amy also serves in a variety of other PTA roles such as
Hospitality, Lead Room Parent, and Teacher Appreciation. Amy has been
married to her husband, Michael, for 15 years and their son, Max, is the
light of their lives.
“
Michelle Rollins
Michele Rollins has been an active Teacher/Member of the PTA for
the past 14 years. She came to Hickey Elementary when it opened in
2002, so she has been able to work with many terrific parents and
Something that
their children throughout the years. Her greatest treat is to be able to
has always puzzled visit with past Hickey Elementary All-Stars who were in her class and
have gone on to graduate from Junior High and High School! Michele
me all my life is
does whatever she can to support and promote PTA as she understands
why, when I am
the integral role PTA plays in the success of the students in our Hickey
community. As the current Team Leader for Second Grade, Michele also
in special need
appreciates all the time invested by our wonderful parents to support
of help, the good the teachers and staff here at Hickey. She understands the importance
of promoting and having the best teacher/parent/student relationships
deed is usually
as we work together for the success of all of our students. Michele has
done by somebody lived in McKinney for the past 22 years and has four grown children
and seven beautiful grandchildren. She lives with her sweet, supportive
on whom I have
husband, and her two dogs, a yellow lab and a Maltese puppy. In her
no claim.”
spare time, Michele helps with “Volunteer McKinney”, a group dedicated
to helping with projects for the City of McKinney. She also plays Tennis
William Feather
at High Point in Plano and loves to research family Genealogy!
38
HUNT ELEMENTARY
Jennifer Bergman
Jennifer has been a dedicated member of the Hunt Elementary PTA
for the last seven years. A former PISD teacher, she understands the
difference a little help from a parent can make in a classroom and
school. Jennifer retired from teaching to be a mom and began her
PTA career when her oldest son started Kindergarten at Hunt. During
her time at Hunt, she has served as Membership Chair, Field Day
Coordinator, Office Coordinator, Senior Reception Chair, and Room
Parent. She has even stepped in to teach as both a short- and longterm Substitute Teacher when needed. Jennifer has also volunteered
her time and energy at countless Book Fairs, Field Trips, classroom
events, and often worked at the front office. As one of the most trusted
volunteers at Hunt, you can always count on Jennifer even if the job
is not the most glamorous. She is a strong and consistent volunteer
and leader. Hunt Elementary would not be the same without her many
contributions, for which we are very thankful. Jennifer is supported by
her husband, Brett, and sons, Caleb (12) and Brayden (10). She is truly
loved by her Hunt Elementary family and we are honored to award her
the PTA Lifetime Award.
Heather Bright
Heather Bright is an amazing example of a busy parent who makes
time for volunteering. Since the first day her oldest son began school at
Barron Elementary, she has given her time and energy to help make a
difference. Heather then became part of the Hunt Elementary Family and
continued to offer her support and talents. She has served on countless
committees; Colonial Day, Camp Write-A-Long and the 5th Grade
Luau Celebration to name a few. Heather is an incredibly hard-working
volunteer who prefers not to be in the spotlight, preferring to work
behind the scenes, and supporting others with her immense talents and
creative ideas to benefit the entire campus. Big projects come together
due to her ideas, effort, hard work and attention to details. As part of
‘Teacher Hospitality’ in recent years, Heather did whatever was asked and
exceeded all expectations. Heather is also one of our most consistent
workers in some of the more mundane jobs for the grade levels. It’s
those little, everyday tasks that make our teachers feel supported so they
can focus on student success. The Hunt PTA is so grateful to have a
volunteer like Heather who is constantly giving of her time and talents
to make Hunt Elementary a better and brighter place. Her husband,
Glenn, and their sons, Scott (13), Seth (11) and Seaver (4), are happy to
give her their support and love in all she does for our Hunt family.
“
No duty is more
urgent than that
of returning
thanks.”
James Allen
39
Lisa Tillery
Lisa Tillery began her career in Plano 18 years ago. Her first three
years teaching in PISD began in the Head Start program. Over the last
15 years, she has been a dedicated second-grade teacher working
continuously to make a difference with each student at each of three
schools, Meadows Elementary, Sigler Elementary and currently at Hunt
Elementary. These schools have all been honored to have her as a part
of their staff. Lisa started at Hunt when it opened in 2005 and has
helped lay the foundation for the exemplary school it is today. Lisa is
a true educator; one that consistently goes out of her way to ensure
students are successful in all aspects of the classroom. She challenges
students to put forth their maximum effort and strive to do their very
best. She delivers quality instruction in a nurturing and supportive
environment. Her enthusiasm for teaching and her ability to motivate
kids to be their best are just a couple of the things that make her such
an amazing teacher. In addition to her classroom responsibilities, Lisa
has also served as the Faculty Representative on the PTA board for
several years. Lisa is married to supportive husband, Rick, and daughters,
Alex (14) and Dani (12). Hunt Elementary is pleased to honor this very
dedicated and deserving teacher with the Texas PTA Lifetime Award.
McCALL ELEMENTARY
Kelly Hopper
Kelly has brought her passion, creativity and positive attitude to the
McCall Elementary PTA since 2012. She started as an energetic Room
Mom, but soon found her passion in the mission of serving the great
students of McCall Elementary in her role as Overall Grade Level
Coordinator and as VP of Membership. She has led and served on
several planning committees for McCall’s fall/spring festival, always going
above and beyond to bring the very best for our students and families.
Kelly believes deeply in the PTA’s mission to build a sense of community
within the school, local businesses and the neighborhoods surrounding
McCall and strongly believes in serving with a purpose. Through class
parties, she initiated charitable activities, such as letters for our men and
No one is more
women serving in the Armed Forces, letters to families suffering from
cherished in
domestic violence at Hope’s Door, and, most recently, letters to a child
whose father and siblings were killed in a house fire. Kelly brought the
this world than
World Wear Project to McCall Elementary and continuously looks for
someone who
projects “with a cause” to enhance our students’ experiences. Aside
lightens the burden from her Texas-sized heart, Kelly has made lasting friendships and
connections with her school’s staff, teachers and families. We thank
of another.
Kelly for the positive impact she has made on the students at McCall
Elementary and the McCall community around her.
Thank you.”
“
Author Unknown
40
Sharry Pereira
As a beloved Librarian for McCall Elementary, Sharry works each day to
help to inspire and instill the love of reading to our McCall Elementary
students. Sharry is very committed to her McCall family and has been
with the school since it opened its doors in 2005. She has been a
great collaborator with the PTA throughout her time at the school by,
each year, generously giving of her time, and energy, to help bring the
Fall and Spring Book Fairs to the students and families of McCall. She
is generous with library space and helps wherever needed during the
Book Fair week. She works tirelessly with the Book Fair Chairman and
helps to put on the VERY BEST Book Fair, twice per year, by entertaining
new ideas to help make the students excited about reading and books.
She is always engaging with PTA Board Members on new programs
for the students, like the Watch Dog programs and she always offers
her technical expertise and equipment to help make the event a great
success. As the Lead for school announcements, Sharry is always eager
to promote the PTA-Sponsored event to help get as much involvement
and excitement from the students as possible. Her passion for education
and genuine love for the kids at McCall Elementary make her a one-ofa-kind Librarian!
Suzanne Ramirez (in memoriam)
Suzanne Ramirez brought her enthusiasm, time and talent to McCall
Elementary PTA in 2015, after having been an involved parent
since her daughter, Leila, began her kindergarten year at McCall in
2012. As Hospitality Chair, Suzanne brought tremendous energy
and thoughtfulness in ensuring our teachers and staff at McCall felt
appreciated and embraced by the McCall PTA and families at McCall.
Whether she was performing duties as Overall Grade Level Coordinator
or helping promote the PTA at various events, she was always fully
committed to what she was doing and she was proud to be part of
and representing McCall PTA. Fully realized in her career, Suzanne was
a graduate of Texas A&M, and was leading a team of product line
managers for NetScout at the time of her death. Aside from her passion
for her children and family, Suzanne loved to craft and helping others,
and was known to love giving goodie bags to her coworkers around
each holiday. Suzanne is survived by her beautiful children, Leila and
Zachary, and her husband Emil. Suzanne and her family will forever be a
part of the McCall family. She will be greatly missed and we are thankful
to have known her and worked with her in serving McCall Elementary.
“
Volunteers do not
necessarily have
the time; they just
have the heart.”
Elizabeth Andrew
41
Kari Yeamans
Kari has been the fearless leader of the McCall Elementary PTA since
July 2015. In the two years since her active involvement in the McCall
PTA she has made a lasting impression on the Board, the school and
students who have benefited from her enthusiastic work in all areas of
the McCall PTA. Kari started her PTA career as Book Fair Chairman for
the fall and spring. She brought new energy and passion to the PTA
at a time when it was desperately needed. AS VP of Communications,
Kari was instrumental in bringing about the much-needed upgrades
to the PTA website and social media and looked into other ways to
best communicate with our McCall “Colt” families. As President, Kari is
intimately involved in an initiative to bring technology to the school and
has directed PTA funds to be used in all ways possible to enhance the
educational experience for our students. Kari has been the 5th Grade
Lead and led the planning of the special activities for our 5th graders
this year. What sets Kari apart from most others is her dedication to the
PTA Board and the school to do WHATEVER it takes to get something
done. She looks for solutions when there is a problem, she volunteers
when there is a need, and she provides guidance and support when
required. She works steadfastly in and for her community. Kari has
developed positive working relationships with the staff, teachers and
parents, and always emphasizes the embracing of the diversity on our
campus. We thank Kari for her commitment to McCall Elementary and
to the students and families of our school!
MEMORIAL ELEMENTARY
Pamela Rainville
“
It’s easy to make
a buck It is a lot
tougher to make
a difference.”
Tom Brokaw
42
Pamela Rainville is a volunteer on Wednesdays at Memorial Elementary
Library. Pamela is not only a volunteer in the Library, but has volunteered
in other areas of our school such as school registrations, Kinder
Roundup, and field trips. While most volunteers prefer to work on tasks
of interest, Pamela never hesitates to do everything and anything asked
of her. She exhibits an important character trait -- the big “I”. It stands
for Initiative. She does this by taking notes of the lessons and activities
taught during each of the nine Wednesday Library classes, by helping
students find books and by assisting teachers and staff who need items
when the Librarian is busy. Pamela can always be counted on to pitch in
and help out with students who drop in to exchange their library books.
Being on time, showing up each week, and caring about children are just
three examples of how dependable and responsible Pamela is and the
Library couldn’t operate efficiently without her. She is an extra pair of
greatly appreciated hands and eyes when twenty first-graders are in and
around the library, but not always visible, while they peruse the shelves
for books. If the Librarian is teaching a class and needs to attend to a
student who may be ill or just needs special attention, Pamela can be
counted on to watch the rest of the class. Because of her help, Memorial
Library functions as it should.
Linda Welch
Linda Welch is a long-time volunteer at Memorial Elementary. She helps
out in the front office whenever she is needed, particularly when we
have our annual school registrations, Kinder Roundup, clinic events,
and any other special events throughout the year when her valuable
organizational and people skills are needed. Whenever visitors enter
the school building they are greeted in the front office by Linda with
her special smile of welcome. Linda’s soft, warm greeting immediately
puts people at ease, making her the perfect first contact between
parent visitors and Memorial Elementary staff. Linda Welch is extremely
knowledgeable about our school procedures and routines and
impeccably directs our campus guests to the person or department they
wish to see. All who know or have worked with Linda consider her a
valuable Memorial Elementary volunteer.
MENDENHALL ELEMENTARY
Rosario Brusniak
In 2000, Rosario became active in Mendenhall Elementary PTA,
and since then she has never hesitated to contribute to them. She
participates in many opportunities sponsored by the PTA such as their
fantastic Book Fairs and other fundraising endeavors. She feels PTA
supports not only teachers, but provides opportunities for parents to
become more actively involved in their children’s education. Rosario is
a Bilingual Speech-Language Pathologist (SLP) in PISD. Practicing since
1973, she has been active in educating Administrators, teachers and
parents about the importance and special role Bilingual Teachers and
Bilingual Speech-Language Pathologist’s play in ensuring that bilingual
students will be successful. She has developed many informal SpeechLanguage Bilingual Assessments as well as therapy materials and
resources for the district which are available to all Bilingual SpeechLanguage Pathologist’s in PISD. Rosario has and continues to serve
as the only Bilingual Speech-Language Pathologist serving on PISD’s
Multi-Cultural Assessment Team (MCAT). This team is charged with
improving and helping differentiate bilingual students who are in the
process of learning a second language from bilingual students who
may have underlying speech/language or learning disabilities. Rosario is
proud of her contributions to the team and the learning opportunities
it has provided in her chosen field. Rosario’s three children, Stephen,
Joseph, and Denise, and also her family, twin sister, Rosaura, and sibling,
Roland, Raquel and Robert, have been loyal supporters of her efforts.
Mendenhall Elementary PTA is honored to present Rosario Brusniak with
the Texas PTA Life Membership Award.
“
Volunteers don’t
get paid, not
because they’re
worthless, but
because they’re
priceless.”
Sherry Anderson
43
Esther Roady
Esther has been an active member of the Mendenhall Elementary
PTA for fifteen years. She has served as a Room Parent, Multicultural
Chair, Volunteer Coordinator, and the Nominating Committee. She
began working in Plano as a long-term Special Education Substitute
at Mendenhall, where she later became the school Secretary. After
working in this position for eight years, Esther took the position of
Office Manager at Wells Elementary. Serving in PISD for more than 15
years as a volunteer and employee has been very rewarding for her and
her family! She feels it has been a privilege to work closely with caring
administrators and educators as an employee and a parent. She is
continuously amazed by their professionalism and humble personalities.
Esther believes that PTA is a great organization where parents and
teachers can create the best environment for their children. She is proud
to be part of PTA as it addresses important issues in public education,
such as funding for highly qualified teachers. Being involved at school
and supporting the teachers and staff has always been important to
Esther, and her kids loved to see her there! Supported by her husband,
John, her three children, Marie, Rose and Wesley, and her mother-inlaw Toshiko, She is able to continue to do what she loves. Mendenhall
Elementary PTA is honored to present Esther Roady with the Texas PTA
Life Membership Award.
STINSON ELEMENTARY
Chance George
“
Wherever there is a
Chance George, a teacher with Stinson since 2003, has a passion for
teaching and helping kids. He truly cares and believes in his students.
Mr. George comes up with innovative ways to help students reach their
full potential. Just walking into his classroom will inspire you and your
child to learn! He also responds to parent concerns regardless of the
time you email him. Mr. George goes beyond his daily teaching duties.
He volunteers with Reader’s Theater and leads several programs at
Stinson like Science Night, Math Night, Science Fair, Geography Bee, and
Continental Math. He was also in charge of PASAR for eight years. Mr.
George is a wonderful teacher and both Stinson and her students are
blessed to have him here!
Hillary Leverton
Hillary Leverton has been teaching Music at Stinson for nine years. Her
human being, there commitment and passion for exposing her students to the Fine Arts
is an opportunity
for a kindness.
~Seneca
44
enhances the education they are receiving at Stinson. The Reader’s
Theater program, a huge undertaking, is always a high point of the year.
Early mornings, late nights, and weekends are required to put forth
the high caliber performance. Ms. Leverton also plans and organizes
Fine Arts Day at Stinson. She books performers and various artists for
a fun day that is a treat for all the senses! This event graduated from a
half-day program to a full-day program, which takes months to plan.
She also takes students to several off-campus Choir performances after
school including mall performances, nursing home performances, and
performances at other schools. Our Stinson students leave campus
being well-rounded and well-versed in the different genres of music.
Ms. Leverton is a hard-working and caring teacher who is fervent about
teaching music to kids.
John Spiars
John Spiars does a lot of behind the scenes volunteer work for the PTA
that benefits our children. He is always willing to help with anything
and everything that he’s asked, and with a great attitude as well! He’s
helped with the Bike Rodeo, the Back-to-School Picnic, the Book Fair,
After-School Programs, Munchies with Mom and numerous field trips.
Additionally John is a Community Partner at Stinson, but has specifically
(and graciously) asked us not to advertise him on any school materials.
He does it simply to help the PTA. John has played an integral part
in acquiring and planting several trees at Stinson so the students and
teachers could have more shade in the school playground. He’s been a
Room Parent and Watch Dog Dad every year for the past five years. He
even coached a soccer team of primarily Stinson kids. And, last but not
least, he was responsible for putting up permanent “Reserved Parking”
poles in the school’s front parking lot (a big seller in our Silent Auction).
John Spiars is very deserving of this award for all of his work with our
students and community.
Kelly Wasemiller
Kelly works unremittingly in every volunteer opportunity she takes onto
her capable shoulders. She gives everything 110% and finds innovative
ways to makes everything better. Kelly also finds ways to make things
easier for the people who will do her job in the future and has devised
and organized plans to help our future Stinson volunteers. Everything
Kelly does is ascertained with passion and a positive attitude. She has
volunteered in the Library, as Room Parent, in the Book Fair, Spirit Night,
Boo-Hoo Breakfast, Auction, School Store, Box Tops, and Field Day. She
re-energized the After-School Program and volunteers every Wednesday
and Friday after school to make sure it runs smoothly. Her extraordinary
organization skills make this program run like a well-oiled machine. This
year Kelly is Stinson’s Hospitality Chair and Room Parent Coordinator.
For our Valentine Parties this year, Kelly will be organizing a collection of
books for students at a Title-One school. Is there nothing she can’t do!?
We are blessed and delighted to have Kelly at Stinson Elementary.
“
Research has
shown that people
who volunteer
often live longer.
Allen Klein
45
ARMSTRONG MIDDLE SCHOOL
Kellie Santos
For three years, Kellie Santos has been a bright, welcoming presence in
the Armstrong Middle School Front Office as the Attendance Clerk. No
matter what, she always has a big smile on her face and it is infectious!
“Ms. Kellie”, as the kids call her, willingly listens to students needing
to talk, gives them no-nonsense advice, and offers a shoulder to cry
on when necessary. In addition to being supportive of the students,
Kellie is always willing to help other staff members whenever the need
arises—and always with a smile! From the beginning of her time at
Armstrong, Kellie has been, and continues to be, a strong supporter of
PTA. Anytime the PTA asks for help, Kellie is ready to jump in, whether
it’s delivering Spirit Wear to students, being our designated “drop off
center” for permission forms, organizing logistics of PTA events, or
helping with our PTA sponsorships. PTA knows we can always count
on Kellie! Armstrong Middle School PTA is not the only school lucky
enough to have her. Kellie has been involved with the PTAs at her
daughters’ schools since they were in Kindergarten. Always ready to
roll up her sleeves and get to work, Kellie has filled many positions
from VP of Membership to Homeroom Mom to Community Partners
Chair to the Silent Auction Committee. When she’s not at Armstrong,
Kellie enjoys traveling, watching movies and reading, and she especially
loves spending time with her husband, Matt, and her 8th grade twin
daughters, Abby and Natalie. Kellie truly epitomizes the PTA spirit of
helping and volunteering! We are grateful to have her at our school!
Lynne Shafer
Lynne has been involved in PTA for the past 10 years, ever since her
daughter was in Kindergarten at Dooley Elementary. She has volunteered
at just about every event and party during that time at both Dooley and
Armstrong, and is getting her feet wet at McMillen as a Band Booster
volunteer. Her contributions at Dooley and Armstrong are too many
to list. She is one of those parents that will happily do any task, and
does all of them exceptionally well. Currently, she holds the Treasurer
and Hospitality positions at Armstrong Middle School, both of which
she does with her usual quiet grace, going above and beyond to make
each event a special one for our teachers and Armstrong guests. The
break room is beautifully decorated each and every time and volunteers
marvel at how much décor Lynne fits into her car. Armstrong is fortunate
I can no other
to have such a creative and generous volunteer! When Lynne is not
answer make, but, balancing the checkbook or scouring Pinterest for ideas for the next
teacher lunch, she is spending time with her wonderful husband, Andy,
thanks, and thanks.” and her two awesome children, Natalie and Grant, and of course,
scrapbooking. We are so happy to honor our sweet Lynne with this wellWilliam
deserved award.
“
Shakespeare
46
Kristina Tafur
Kristina is one of our dedicated Counselors at Armstrong Middle
School. This is her fourth year at Armstrong and we are so very lucky
indeed to have her. Kristina wears many hats, as all middle school
Counselors do, but her passion and love for our students and sweet
smiling face make her an easy choice for this award. Always happy
to partner with PTA, Kristina has gone above and beyond her duties,
whether she is assisting PTA with our amazing Career Day, helping us
with outfitting our 8th graders with formal wear for their 8th grade
Celebration, volunteering at our events and taking such very good care
of our students. When Kristina is not caring for students at Armstrong,
she enjoys travelling and spending time with her wonderful husband,
Joseph, and two children, Joseph Jr. and Annabella. We thank her so
much and are so grateful to have Kristina at our school.
BOWMAN MIDDLE SCHOOL
Michelle Dunn
Every PTA’s success is dependent on the hundreds of Moms, Dads,
Grandparents and Community Members who help out behind the
scenes. Michelle Dunn is one of those people. Since joining PTA when
her daughter entered Kindergarten in 2006, Michelle has been a
helping hand at Pumpkin Patches, Carnivals, Teacher Luncheons, Silent
Auctions and so many more events. Michelle is currently serving her
third term as VP of Membership on the Bowman Middle School PTA
Board. She continues to support the student and faculty events at
Bowman by volunteering her time and talents. Michelle is involved in
the Plano community as a volunteer Girl Scout Troop Leader, Cookie
Mom and Service Unit Manager when she is not at work or taking care
of her PTA duties. When Michelle and her husband, Brodie, are not
watching their daughter, Lauren, play Volleyball or cheer for the Bowman
Raiders they are watching the Cowboys, Mavericks or Texas Rangers.
Bowman Middle School PTA is very proud to honor Michelle Dunn with
a PTA Lifetime Membership.
“
You may not have
Kerrie Whitson
saved a lot of
Bowman Middle School PTA is very proud to honor Kerrie Whitson
money in your
with a PTA Lifetime Membership. Kerrie has been a PTA member in
PISD since 2006. She began her teaching career in Florida where she
life, but if you
taught middle school Math and Science. Kerrie has worked the last
have saved a lot
eight years for PlSD. She taught Kindergarten at Beverly Elementary and
has spent the last five years teaching Math at Bowman Middle School.
of heartaches for
Kerrie Whitson gives 100% to her students. She may be quiet, but she
other folks, you are
is a champion for her students’ continued learning and growth. She is
always available to provide additional teaching and coaching to help her a pretty rich man.”
students achieve their academic goals. This year, Kerrie is very excited to
Seth Parker
have the opportunity to teach AVID for the first time. She loves to spend
time building relationships with her students and their parents. Thank
you, Kerrie Whitson, for your hard work helping the Bowman Middle
School students to see and realize their true potential.
47
MURPHY MIDDLE SCHOOL
Elisabeth Budic
Elisabeth (Eta) Budic has been very involved in the PTA at both Boggess
Elementary and Murphy Middle School. For two years at Boggess
Elementary School, Eta was the Book Fair Chairman and also in charge
of the PTA Post. Eta has volunteered at classroom parties, has supported
the Carnival fund raisers and worked hard and endlessly in the school
Library for many years. At Murphy Middle School, Eta has spent most
of her time over the last four years in her areas of interest - again, the
Library - doing anything and everything that Ms. Pearson asks of her. She
has also been working to train other volunteers and has been extremely
helpful with the Book Fairs. Eta greets everyone with a lovely smile and
her hard work is appreciated. The PTA is proud to honor Eta Budic with
a Life Membership Award.
Amy Deans
“
The world is
hugged by the
faithful arms
of volunteers.”
Terri Guillemets
48
Amy Deans has been an integral part of Murphy Middle School PTA
and we are so proud to honor her with a Life Membership Award. Amy
has served the Rainbow Connection Preschool by being an Executive
Board Member and Room Mom for six years. At Boggess Elementary,
she was a Kindergarten, 1st, 2nd and 3rd-grade Room Mom. She was
also the Multi-Cultural Night Chairperson, VP of Volunteers, GradeLevel Coordinator, and Auction Co-Chairperson, yet still found time to
volunteer in the Library and help with “Fun Fantastic Friday’s”. At Hunt
Elementary, Amy continued her volunteering with more “Fun Fantastic
Friday’s”, was a Work Center Helper, School Supplies Chairperson and
she is currently an Office Aide. Amy is the Mavericks Stampede/Color
Run Chairman at Murphy Middle School, and at McMillen, Amy has
been the VP of Fundraising for the Volleyball Booster Club, where she
has also been Snack Sales volunteer and the Hospitality Co-Chair. At
Plano East, she is the President of the Volleyball Booster Club and has
also been a Team Mom. In the Recreational play of Volleyball, she was
the Assistant Coach to 5th and 6th-grade girls, and Head Coach for
Kindergarteners through 4th-grade girls. At Richardson East Church
of Christ, she has been a Sunday School teacher for 1st through 4th
graders, a Nursery Room helper and the Childcare Coordinator for
the Ladies’ Bible Class. Amy is devoted to helping children and we
appreciate all she does for our community.
Jason Matisoff
Jason Matisoff is a Plano East Senior High School graduate and currently
the Murphy Middle School Gifted and Talented Department Head and
the 8th-grade Team Leader. Jason has also been an active PTA member
for the last six years. At Hendricks Middle School, he was the Yearbook
Advisor, a member of the School-Based Improvement Committee
(SBIC) and an AVID Site Team Member. In 2010 he also received the
esteemed Beginning Teacher-of-the-Year award. Mr. Matisoff continues
his work on the School-Based Improvement Committee at Murphy
Middle School, and is also on the Grit Committee. He is a Mock Trial
Sponsor, Murphy Gaming Club Sponsor and was the Maverick Gazette
Newspaper Sponsor for 2015. He is a member of the Texas Association
of Gifted Teachers and a District PACE Curriculum Writer. Mr. Matisoff
is a Summer Institute for Gifted Students (SIGS) teacher, the Murphy
Education Foundation Employee Campaign Coordinator and a Plano
ISD Educational Technology Success Initiative Founding Participant.
Mr. Matisoff is well loved by students, staff and faculty and received
an Experienced Teacher-of-the-Year Top Three Nominee in 2015 for
Murphy Middle School. The PTA honors Jason Matisoff this evening for
all his achievements and his dedication to his students!
OTTO MIDDLE SCHOOL
Julia Canby
Julia Canby works at Otto Middle School as an Assistant Principal. She
creates fun, engaging activities for the students that promote positive
behavior and school spirit. Mrs. Canby can always been seen walking
through the halls with a smile on her face. She displays a positive
patience with each student that she works with in any capacity and she
recognizes Otto’s students for their outstanding accomplishments as
well. Another admirable characteristic is working well with the staff at
Otto. Her 12 years of cohesive efforts with the PTA also speaks volumes
of her continuous dedication to be involved with our children’s lives.
This is Julia’s second time to receive a Texas PTA Lifetime Member award
which shows her track record, and, of being fully appreciated by all. Hats
off to Julia Canby!
Kennitra Robertson
Kennitra Robertson is a caring Administrative Intern at Otto Middle
School. Everyone sees the passion and love she has for the students
through her daily interactions in the hallways and her creation of
motivational projects. Kennitra was a 2015 PISD Education Foundation
Grant Award Winner. She plans to use the funds to support her Positive
Behavioral Intervention and Support (PBIS) Program at Otto. This
program was re-energized by her passion to create a positive relationship
with students, staff, parents and the community. The program recognizes
students who demonstrate positive behaviors. As the Coordinator of
the PBIS team, Kennitra’s energy and drive motivates all who work with
her to continuously develop new and exciting ways to celebrate our
students’ achievements. Kennitra has promoted the program to the
Those who can, do.
community and has received donations from local businesses and sports
Those who can do
teams to motivate the students to achieve their full potential. Last, but
not least, Kennitra also leads other campus programs including Bobcat
more, volunteer.”
Camp and school socials. Kennitra Robertson is a talented, caring and
Author Unknown
passionate professional who continuously motivates our children to
achieve their full potential. We feel privileged to have her at Otto.
“
49
Celines Shipley
Celines has held many positions in many PTA’s from Austin to
Richardson to Plano, TX. Her tenure spans: Membership Chair, Room
Parent for every year her children have been in grade school, GradeLevel parent, Auction Co-Chair, Community Partners Coordinator,
Kroger’s Fund-Raiser, Volunteer Coordinator, Outreach and “My School
is Cool”, (a Collin Creek Mall program of which her school, Stinson
Elementary, won first and second places). All of Celines’ efforts have
spanned eight years of devotion to helping students get attention
and recognition. Among her numerous labors of love are getting trees
planted at Stinson Elementary so the students would have more shade,
bringing coats and clothes to Title 1 schools, helping start a food
pantry at Otto Middle School, volunteering to bring food to struggling
families, starting Holiday Baskets at Otto Middle School so those same
struggling families would have a nice holiday meal, and working with
several others to collect books to give to students at Title1 schools.
Celines is a person that cares about our children and clearly puts others
before herself. It is an honor to recognize Celines Shipley as a Texas PTA
Lifetime Member from Otto Middle School!
McMILLEN HIGH SCHOOL
LaTonya Lambert
LaTonya Lambert has been a PTA member for 11 years, serving in
numerous PTA and school Booster Club positions in that time. She
works full-time for Dell and currently is the PTA VP of Membership, and
once again, also has Booster Club responsibilities. LaTonya gives her
all whether it be Membership, Spirit Wear or as a general volunteer. She
is quick to volunteer at everything she is asked to do, such as Room
parties, End-of-Year bash, Socials and Homecomings. LaTonya is married
to husband, Arnold Lambert and has two children; Nick 15yrs, and
Lauryn, 9yrs. McMillen PTA is proud to award LaTonya Lambert with a
Texas PTA Lifetime Membership Award.
Lorraine Seawright
“
The breeze, the
trees, the honey
bees — All
volunteers!”
Juliet Carinreap
50
Lorraine Seawright has been a member of PTA for 27 years. Her first
15 years were spent teaching in Broken Arrow, Oklahoma. She and her
husband, Dale, who is also an educator, moved back to Lorraine’s home
state of Texas in 2004, due to the birth of her first “grand-darling”. She
received her undergraduate degree from Northeastern State University and
her Masters from the University of Texas at Dallas (UTD). Lorraine teaches
Chemistry, Pre-AP Chemistry, Anatomy, Physiology and AP Biology here at
McMillen High School. She was Teacher of the Year at Jasper High School
and received the honor of being the Secondary District Teacher-of-theYear in 2010. Lorraine is currently the Science Department Chair and has
been awarded the PTSA Lifetime Membership because of her dedication
and passion for learning. She genuinely commits herself to her students
each day, ensuring that they are always in the position to obtain new
knowledge. She does this with a focus on establishing relationships
with her students and assisting them with successfully achieving their
highest goals in her class. Lorraine is married to husband, Dale, has two
daughters, two son-in laws, and five “grand-darlings”.
WILLIAMS HIGH SCHOOL
Carol Carter
Carol Carter has been an active PTA member at Hickey Elementary,
Bowman Middle School and Williams High School. She has held several
positions such as Spirit Night, Legislation and Directory Chair. In the
last two years, Carol has tackled being PTA Treasurer at Bowman and is
currently the PTA Treasurer at Williams. She is also very involved with the
Football and Basketball Booster Clubs at Williams and at Plano East. She
does all of this while working full-time as a Program Manager for HP
Enterprise. Carol also finds time to be involved in the Faith Formation
Ministry at St. Joseph’s Catholic Church. Carol is married to husband,
Joe and they have a son who is a freshman at Williams.
Rhett Carter
Rhett Carter is a product of the Plano Independent School District.
He grew up in Murphy and is a proud Plano East Senior High School
graduate. He is also an Eagle Scout. Rhett has spent most of his
teaching career in Plano ISD and has taught at Hedgcoxe Elementary
and Armstrong Middle School. Rhett, currently, is a History teacher at
Williams High School. He feels particularly privileged to have had the
opportunity to teach at Williams and Armstrong as he attended both
schools as a PISD student, himself. Rhett earned his undergraduate
History degree from Southern Methodist University in 2006 and also
holds Master’s Degrees in History and Educational Leadership. He is
married to Sarah Carter, who is also a Plano ISD teacher. They have two
daughters: Ruth, a Kindergartener at Boggess Elementary, and Eleanor.
After ten years of teaching, he hopes to transition into Administration
where he wishes to make an even larger contribution to his community.
“
We cannot live
only for ourselves.
A thousand fibers
connect us with
our fellow men.”
Herman Melville
51
PLANO EAST SENIOR HIGH
George King
George King earned his Bachelor’s degree from Stephen F. Austin State
University and his Master’s degree from the University of North Texas.
Mr. King has been a part of the” East Side” of Plano for a number of
years teaching at both Williams and Vines High School before beginning
his Administrative career. Mr. King has been the Assistant Principal at
both Williams and Frankford, and the Principal at Wilson, Bowman and
McMillen before joining the wonderful staff at Plano East Senior High
School. Not only is George King highly respected by the Plano East staff
and parents, the students absolutely adore him. They also love that he
can be found at any school event supporting and sporting his proud
Black & Gold!
Sally Moore
Sally Moore has been a PISD parent for seven years. During that time,
she has volunteered at all the PTSA activities, serving as Treasurer at
Plano East Senior High School and also at Williams. She has been active
in the Cross Country Booster Club and is now a member of the Soccer
Booster Club. Sally has always been available for whatever needs to be
done; It is almost assumed – if we need volunteers, Sally will be there.
When a PTSA Treasurer was needed, she stepped up and it is not an
easy role to walk into spontaneously. Plano East PTSA has been very
fortunate to have Sally in our community. Sally and her husband, Terry,
have two sons; Tristan, a freshman at UT Tyler, and Tanner, a junior at
Plano East. Their sons have loved going to school at Plano East and
Sally and her husband are grateful the boys have spent their years on
the “East Side”. This is Sally’s tenth PTSA – she was a member of five
PTSA’s in Tennessee, one in Arizona, and four in Texas. Sally is a true
supporter of education.
“
Wherever a man
turns he can find
someone who
needs him.”
Albert Schweitzer
52
ACADEMY HIGH SCHOOL
Stephanie Hirsch
As a 2002 graduate of Plano Senior High School, Stephanie Hirsch
is proud to be a part of the PISD teaching community. Now in her
tenth year with the district, Stephanie was a member of the original
faculty that created the Plano ISD Academy High School and serves
there as a second-year Math Facilitator where she gets to work with
student learners in an interdisciplinary, project-based learning setting.
She loves making connections for the students between content and
authentic learning experiences. After earning a degree in Mathematics
from the University of Texas at Dallas, her teaching career began at
Jasper High School. Stephanie eventually found her way to McMillen
High School where she became a member of the founding faculty and
served as the Math Department Chair. In between all the algebraic fun
with those awesome ninth and tenth-graders, Stephanie also managed
to obtain her Master’s Degree in Curriculum and Instruction for
Mathematics from UTA. Working with student learners is her greatest
passion and she enjoys finding connections with them through shared
outside interests such as reading, playing video games, exploring the
latest technology innovations, and more. Stephanie also serves as the
NHS sponsor and helps her learners connect with their community,
both within and outside of the Academy.
Philip McRell
Philip McRell is a Plano businessman who has worked with the
Academy over the last three years to assist the administration in
engaging community and corporate leaders with the student learners
and teacher facilitators. These community and corporate leaders
provide inspirational talks and demos, provide experienced engineers,
scientists and executives, and also donations for the Academy. Philip
McReil does an excellent job in all of these areas, and is persistent
in his dedication to the Academy and the Academy facilitators and
learners.
Cody Thomas
Cody Thomas was born in Plano, attending school in a small town
North of Dallas. He graduated from Texas Tech University in 2004
with a Degree in Restaurant and Hotel Management, and married
Samantha Thomas, also a graduate of Texas Tech. They have two
children, Madelyn, age 10, and Jax, age four. Cody began his
restaurant management career during his high school years working
for Hutchins, one of the top BBQ restaurants in the world. Cody
always had a passion to work in the restaurant industry. He loves
working with the public and enjoys the fast pace of the restaurant
business. Cody also worked with the Brinker Corporation, before
moving on with Raising Cane’s in 2011. He rose up the ladder quickly
from Operations Manager to General Manager in less than two
years. Cody was most recently accepted as a Managing Partner with
Raising Cane’s in 2015. Raising Cane’s has presented him with many
“
Volunteers are paid
in six figures...
S-M-I-L-E-S.”
Gayla LeMaire
53
great opportunities. Cane’s contributes greatly to their surrounding
communities, by giving as much time and money as possible to help
support their residents. Cody is a firm believer in the vision of Todd
Graves, owner of Raising Cane’s; he loves cooking chicken, but making
a difference in his community is what sets his Cane’s apart from others.
Cody has done several donations and fundraisers for many of the
schools in Plano during his time as General Manager. He participated,
for the second year, in a blanket/jacket drive for Church under the Tree,
a church for the homeless. He has also had several events with City
House Plano, a local emergency youth shelter. Building relationships
with people is key in his life; Volunteering and donating comes simply
and naturally to Cody and customer service is what he knows best,
whether selling chicken or giving back to his local community.
“
Volunteers are
the only human
PEARSON EARLY CHILDHOOD
Elizabeth Nestman
Elizabeth exemplifies continual and unfaltering advocacy for the
education, health, and well-being of children. She has served with local
PTAs/PTOs in Ohio, Virginia, and Texas for over twenty years, holding
of the earth who various board positions and coordinating the Reflections Competition.
reflect this nation’s Currently, she is a Special-Education teacher and the PTA Board
Secretary at Pearson Early Childhood School. Elizabeth is known for
compassion,
her caring dedication, warm collegiality, and wonderful sense of humor.
Despite her years of experience, Elizabeth is a perpetual learner who
unselfish caring,
constantly looks for innovative ways to help her students and their
patience, and just
families. She also takes her passion for children beyond school walls to
plain loving one
the greater community with her volunteer work at Challenge Air (giving
the “gift of flight” to children with special needs), Special Olympics,
another.”
Girl Scouts and BeechAcres Parenting Center. Elizabeth’s husband and
Erma Bombeck
children have been her staunch supporters and perpetual volunteer
recruits. We at Pearson are delighted to recognize Elizabeth with a Texas
PTA Life Member award.
beings on the face
54
ALDRIDGE ELEMENTARY
Relle Austin
Relle has served on the Aldridge PTA for eight years. She has served as
PTA President, VP Programs, VP Membership, Grade Level Coordinator,
Room Parent and Library and Office volunteer. Relle is always ready to
serve on any committee in the Aldridge Elementary PTA or to help any
teachers who need assistance. Her list of volunteer activities includes:
helping set up and tear down the Book Fair, helping at Field Day,
chaperoning field trips and assisting in the teacher work room and the
Library. She also volunteers in the community with a local pet rescue.
She rescues and fosters dogs with special medical and behavioral
needs. Relle is very generous in volunteering her time at Aldridge.
Under her presidency, new programs such as Science Night, Art Night,
Youth Safety Night, Family Fitness Night and Zoo Night were sponsored
by the PTA and enjoyed by the families at Aldridge. Her hard work,
kindness and generosity have made a huge difference at Aldridge and
in the community.
Cheryl Pitts
Cheryl Pitts has been a teacher for 26 years. She has spent 18 of
those years at Aldridge Elementary. Cheryl is a fantastic role model
and teacher. The students appreciate her kindness, fairness and lovely
personality. Parents appreciate her teaching style and thorough work
habits. She always keeps the kids on task and ensures that they are
accountable for themselves. Cheryl is well-loved and well-respected
by students, parents and the other teachers. The students work hard
for Mrs. Pitts and are constantly learning in her class. She has served
as Team Leader for many years and is a Mentor for new teachers.
Cheryl Pitts is an exemplary asset to the students and staff at Aldridge
Elementary.
Andrea Tompkins
Andrea does an outstanding job working with children with special
needs. She is extremely patient and kind. She goes above and beyond
to ensure the children receive the best education and modifications
needed to reach their full potential. Ms. Tompkins is adored by all of
her students for her loving, caring nature and her ability to make any
challenge seem simple and attainable. Her students excel in her care
as a result of her hard work and dedication. By raising the level of her
student’s learning and allowing them the opportunity to be successful,
Andrea absolutely makes a difference, not only for her students, but
also in the community. She is generous and makes time for everyone she
encounters. Andrea should be commended for her contributions and
for being a true team player. These students will be more successful in
life and in their community by her diligence and her caring efforts.
“
Here’s to all
volunteers,those
dedicated people
who believe in all
work and no pay.”
Robert Orben
55
BETHANY ELEMENTARY
Paula Kleeburg
Paula Kleeburg is everything that is beautiful about PISD. She graduated
from our district, raised her family in our district and educates the
children in our district. Her enthusiasm and compassion make her a
favorite with parents and students alike. She guides and encourages her
students, working relentlessly to further their educational growth and
instilling in her students her own love of learning. Paula Kleeburg is also
being honored this year as Bethany Elementary’s Teacher-of-the-Year. She
is truly an inspiration.
Bibiana Lorinc
Bibiana is one of the most dependable volunteers we have at Bethany
Elementary. In her six years here, she has been quick to sign up for
any task and follows through with diligence and commitment. Bibliana
has served as Parent Education Chair for several years, bringing many
valuable resources to our school. She has been a constant fixture in
our library and a helping hand at all class functions. Those at Bethany
Elementary are sad that Bibliana will be moving on to the middle school
next year, as both her smiling face and her contributions to our school
will be sorely missed.
BEVERLY ELEMENTARY
Donna Buccini
Donna Buccini has been a member of the Beverly Elementary PTA
for 11 years. She has served as an Executive Board member, GradeLevel Volunteer Coordinator, Room Parent, Bobcat Store Coordinator,
Walkathon Co-Chair, Scholarship Committee member, STOP Co-Chair
(student service organization), Environmental Chairman, and Eco
“I slept and dreamt
Club Leader. Through her dedicated work as Eco Club Leader, she has
that life was joy. I educated Beverly Elementary students on environmental awareness,
spending many hours in the cafeteria during lunch teaching students
awoke and saw that
about recycling. Donna began the Adopt-A-Highway program at Beverly
life was service. I
and kept it running for nine years. She has also been instrumental in
acted and behold, creating and maintaining a beautiful memorial butterfly garden at Beverly.
Under her leadership, Beverly Elementary won the City of Plano Clean
service was joy.”
Campus award in 2012-2013 and 2013-2014, and the City of Plano’s
Outstanding Environmental Awareness Group in 2007-2008. Donna
Rabindranath
has led many collection drives at Beverly benefitting places such as the
Tagore
SPCA, Shoe Bank, and Clothes Closet. In addition to her many Board
positions, she has also volunteered for hallway work, lunch duty, Book
(1861-1941);
Fair, Field Day, On-Line Auction, 5th-Grade Celebration, field trips, and
Poet, Playwright,
camp chaperone. Donna has given time to Hendricks Middle School
by volunteering for Supply Cart, Socials, and Orchestra. Additionally,
Essayist
she has served at Clark High School as a 1st VP Program Chair and an
Orchestra Booster Club volunteer. Donna is supported by her husband,
Mark, and their children, Vince and Marisa.
“
56
Julie Montgomery
Julie Flint Montgomery began as a first-year new teacher at Beverly
Elementary School in July of 2000. She has been an outstanding
teacher and team member over the past 16 years. Julie has become an
effective Team Leader and campus and district leader. In 2007, she was
given the distinction of being named the Beverly Elementary Teacher-ofthe-Year, and at the district celebration, she was awarded one of the five
Elementary Excellence in Teaching Awards for PISD. Julie is recognized
by the PISD Curriculum Department as an important contributor to
curriculum development for all of the Elementary schools within the
district. She has written Math curriculum for the district for years, and
has served on several district textbook adoption committees. She has
been a trainer for elementary math teachers in the district. Julie hosts
one of the few centralized Math Rocks programs which serves above
level math students from four schools. She is a strong supporter of the
Beverly PTA. She is truly an outstanding teacher and a role model for
all teachers at the campus. Julie shares this award with her amazing 5th
grade team at Beverly.
Terri Pareti
Terri Pareti has spent 12 years as a PTA member at Beverly Elementary
School. She is currently serving her second year on the Executive
Board as 3rd VP Ways & Means. She has spent countless hours
overseeing the many fundraising events for our school. In the two
years prior to that, Terri served on the Executive Board as the Treasurer.
She has served on the PTA Nominating Committee and Graduating
Senior Scholarship Committee, and was a Co-Coordinator for Beverly
Elementary’s involvement in the Thrill-of-the-Grill 5k benefitting the
Plano ISD Education Foundation. In addition to her positions on
the Executive Board, Terri has also served as a Grade-Level Volunteer
Coordinator, Spirit Night Coordinator, Bobcat Store Coordinator, and
Room Mom over multiple years. Generously giving of her time, Terri also
volunteers at the Book Fair, Walkathon, Field Day, Multi-cultural Night,
Comprehension Café, 4th-grade Writing Camp, and goes on many
Never doubt that
class field trips. She has helped with the school’s On-Line Auction,
a small gens can
Community Outreach and Teacher Hospitality events. She has done
Hallway Duty and take-home work for the teachers. Family members
change the world;
supporting Terri in her endeavors are wonderful husband, Marc, and
indeed, it’s the only
their three children, Chase, Kristen and Brooke.
“
thing that ever has.”
Margaret Mead
(1902-1978);
Cultural
Anthropologist
57
CARLISLE ELEMENTARY
Cloe McQuerry
Cloe McQuerry has been instrumental in shaping Carlisle Elementary’s
PTA this year and exemplifies a true commitment to serving when
needed. She has been in the role of Parliamentarian and currently, she
is the PTA Treasurer. She has gone beyond the call of duty to lend
her expertise in Accounting and Procedural Awareness and has been
a remarkable steward of the Carlisle PTA funds. Cloe displays a sweet
patience with others who are not as naturally detail-oriented and she
helps them with those details. Her “can-do” attitude inspires all those
who work with her and around her. Cloe makes such a difference at
Carlisle. In her spare time, she enjoys Latin Dance, “inhaling” Literature
and has a passion for roller-skating. Cloe is married to husband, Andrew
McQuerry, and has three children.
Kimberly Thomas
Kimberly Thomas graduated with Honors from Our Lady of the Lake
College in San Antonio and started teaching at Carlisle Elementary in
2008. In her first year of teaching Special Education, she was honored
with the distinction of “Beginning Teacher-of-the-Year” and most recently
she was awarded “2015/16 Teacher-of-the-Year” at Carlisle. Kimberly has
a great spirit and is a dedicated, compassionate and talented teacher
who is loved and respected by staff, students and parents. Kimberly
dedicates her time to her students - primarily fourth graders this year
I don’t know what - and leads a team of teachers and para-professionals that reach and
guide students at all grade levels, giving extra attention to those with
your destiny will
learning differences. Kimberly started The North Texas Buddy Walk at
be, but one thing Carlisle Elementary which promotes acceptance and inclusion of people
with Down Syndrome. It is an inspirational event that celebrates the
I do know:
many abilities and accomplishments of Special Needs students. Kimberly
is a gifted educator that inspires learning through her energy and
the only ones
passion. She consistently goes out of her way - and leads the way - to
among you who
ensure students are successful. Kimberly is married to husband, Devin
will be really happy Thomas, and she has two children.
“
are those who have
sought and found
how to serve.”
Albert Schweitzer
(1875-1965);
Philosopher,
Physician, Nobel
Peace Prize Winner
58
CHRISTIE ELEMENTARY
Kristen Freeman
Kristen Freeman has poured herself an outrageous number of volunteer
hours over the past five years serving here at Christie Elementary.
Whether serving as Treasurer, VP Membership, Room Parent Coordinator,
Lead Room Parent, Chair of a committee, Donor, or hands-on volunteer,
her dedication to the PTA is exemplary and she exhibits excellence in all
the roles she has held. Kristen has proven herself to be a most valued
asset to our Christie Elementary PTA, school and community!
Barb Handyside
Barb Handyside has served Christie Elementary for over 20 years.
She has always been actively involved with Christie PTA, and plays an
integral role in Multicultural Night, Field Day (the best day of the year!),
Marathon Kids, and many, many, MANY more programs. Barb has a
positive “can-do” attitude, and consistently brings energy and joy to our
kids, our campus, and our community.
De’Cole Kelly
Ms. De’Cole Kelly is our Assistant Principal at Christie Elementary. Her
passion for our students and their success is clearly evident as she
works hard each day to ensure the success of each and every child. Not
only is she a strong proponent of the partnership between the school
and PTA, Ms. Kelly is also a student motivator, child advocate, and
parental support system. She has previously been a teacher in 7th and
8th grade in Language Arts, and has been an amazing Assistant Principal
for the last several years within Plano ISD. Ms. De’Cole Kelly’s daily work
on campus personifies the mission of PTA - every child, one voice.
DAVIS ELEMENTARY
Sarah Gagliano
Sarah Gagliano has been a member of the Davis Elementary PTA since
2011 when her first little one came to Kindergarten. Sarah took on the
newsletter that year and brought us into the modern green world of an
electronic newsletter. She has served as our SAGE Chair, Volunteer Chair,
and the Programs Chair. She also initiated the after-school programs
at Davis. Sarah not only helps at Davis Elementary, but she also serves
with her local Girl Scout Council and leads two troops of Girl Scouts.
Sarah has facilitated opportunities for her troops to participate in Flag
Ceremonies, Veteran’s Day programs, Red Ribbon decorating, and other
service projects around the school. Where would we be without Sarah
Gagliano. Davis Elementary and Davis Elementary PTA are proud to have
her here with us.
John Higgins
“
One kernel is felt
in a hogshead; one
drop of water helps
to swell the ocean;
a spark of fire helps
to give light to
the world. None
are too small, too
John Higgins is a big part of the Davis Elementary community. He
currently serves on the PTA Board as the Parliamentarian. John works
feeble, too poor to
with the Cub Scouts and has grown the “Pack” from four boys to 32
be of service. Think
boys in the past three years. He coaches his son’s basketball team and
of this and act.”
has done so for four years now. Every Tuesday morning you can find Mr.
Higgins with his Cub Scouts at Davis doing a Flag Ceremony. He is very
Hannah More
active in his son’s school life and helps all the children along the way.
(1745-1833);
His son’s name is Sean, and together they have been a part of the Davis
family for five years. We are happy to have John Higgins on our campus
Writer
and we know we can count on him at all times.
59
Robert Jackson
Robert Jackson has worked at Davis for four years. Mr. Robert graduated
from Paul Quinn College and received his Master’s Degree from Prairie
View A&M. Mr. Robert is a U.S. Veteran serving in the Army and he
fought in Vietnam. His hobbies are watching basketball and football. His
favorite team is the Detroit Lions. What Mr. Robert likes best about Davis
are the friendly staff, kids, and parents. We are happy to have Mr. Robert
at Davis Elementary. He is always ready to help anyone in need and
always with a smile.
Angie McGee
“
Consciously or
unconsciously,
every one of us
does render some
Mrs. Angie McGee works her magic daily in the First Grade at Davis
Elementary. She began her career teaching Kindergarten students for
three years. This is now Mrs. McGee’s fifth year in First Grade. She is the
First-Grade Team Leader and her love for children and teaching shines
throughout her classroom. Her students absolutely love her. Angie also
keeps the teaching staff at Davis Elementary fit by setting up after school
workout groups and instructs them in ways to eat healthily. Angie loves
to work out and “hang out” with her son, Rhett. Angie is always willing
to help out on our school campus. Davis Elementary is lucky to have a
team player like her.
service or other.
If we cultivate the
habit of doing this
HEDGCOXE ELEMENTARY
Margot Anderson
Margot Anderson has been teaching for the past 22 years with
15 of those years at Hedgcoxe Elementary. She has been an active
our desire for
PTA Member for over twenty-three years and served as Staff Advisor
to the Hedgcoxe PTA Board for many years. As a testament to her
service will steadily
achievements at Hedgcoxe, Margot has earned the distinction of being
grow stronger, and named with a PISD Excellence in Teaching Award, is in Who’s Who of
will make, not only American Teachers, as well as being a PISD Professional Development
Facilitator. Students and staff alike are drawn to Margot’s commitment to
our own happiness, teaching and PTA activities. She has been involved with SBIC, Hedgcoxe
Teacher Auction, e-News Coordinator, Campus Sunshine Coordinator,
but that of the
Volunteer Luncheon and Breakfast Coordinator, and has also been a
world at large.”
teaching mentor for many years. Margot has founded several successful
programs which include our Annual Hedgcoxe Talent Show and “Hello
Mohandas
Hedgcoxe”. Margot is in charge of our Plano Academic and Creative
Karamchand
Education at Hedgcoxe and her students adore her. She is married to
husband, Alan, and has two daughters. Hedgcoxe PTA is especially
Gandhi (1869pleased to name Margot as a PTA Lifetime Honoree, and Hedgcoxe
1948); Indian
Elementary is proud to have her in our school.
service deliberately,
Political And
Spiritual Leader
60
Lisa Kivett
This is Lisa Kivett’s fourth year as a Hedgcoxe PTA Member and her
willingness to do any and all things at Hedgcoxe has earned her the
distinction of being named a Texas PTA Lifetime Member. In her years at
Hedgcoxe, Lisa has been a top volunteer in her many hours of service
to our school. Her service on the PTA Executive Board has included
Parliamentarian and acting Recording Secretary. She has been on the
PTA Nominating Committee, and Reconciliation Committee Leader.
Lisa’s involvement at Hedgcoxe Elementary has spanned the gamut from
Room Parent, Grade-Level Coordinator/Room Parent, Assistant to the
PTA Workroom Coordinator,” Chez Snoopy” Coordinator, Fine Arts and
Family Art Night helper, Hedgcoxe Carnival member, and WatchDOGS
Coordinator. She has also served as Delegate to the PISD Council of
PTAs, been a PISD Key Communicator Member, and served as our Parent
Representative on our Hedgcoxe School-Based Improvement Committee
(SBIC). In addition to all of the above, Lisa has assisted with our Annual
Hedgcoxe Fitnic, been a Yearbook Class Committee member, Hospitality
Volunteer, School Supply Chairmen’s Assistant, and lastly, volunteered
at the TEPSA Student Council Leadership Day in 2014 and 2015. It
does not matter what event we have at Hedgcoxe, you will always see
Lisa present in making every Hedgcoxe Event a success. She is a very
deserving Texas PTA Lifetime Membership honoree. She is married to
David and is mother to two wonderful children, one currently in 5th
grade and another, now a freshmen in college.
Tierney Thompson
This is Tierney Thompson’s eleventh year as a Hedgcoxe PTA member,
and her wholehearted involvement has earned her the distinction as a
Texas PTA Lifetime Member. With three children ranging from 3rd grade
to 10th, her continuing involvement at Hedgcoxe has ranged from
Room Parent and Room Parent Grade-Level Coordinator for multiple
children over multiple years in multiple grades. Tierney’s current position
is President of the Hedgcoxe PTA Executive Board, where she is in
the second of a two-year term. Previously she has also served on the
Hedgcoxe PTA Executive Board as Vice President of Membership. Never
one to be to idle, Tierney’s volunteer contributions, over more than a
decade, include serving in the PTA Workroom and Front Office, working
as a volunteer for the after-school Art Experience, chaperoning field
trips, sitting on the Budget Committee, assuming Chair of Hospitality
and Chair of Silent Auction, as well as playing key roles in the annual
Carnivals, Golf Tournaments, and FitNic. In addition to her current
responsibilities as President of the PTA, Tierney is the Chair for the
beloved Hedgcoxe Third Grade Chez Snoopy Restaurant for 20152016. Tierney serves Hedgcoxe, cares for her family, and runs her own
business. With her husband, Jeff and their three children, Hedgcoxe is
proud to have Tierney as a Texas PTA Lifetime honoree.
“
To serve is
beautiful, but only
if it is done
with joy and
a whole heart
and a free mind.”
Pearl S. Buck
(1892-1973);
Writer, Nobel
And Pulitzer Prize
Winner
61
HUGHSTON ELEMENTARY
Mark Anderson
Mark Anderson is a Special Education teacher and has been a PTA
member for 18 years as a parent and teacher. Mark is dedicated to the
success of all students, no matter how challenging. He seeks out and
implements creative ways to reach his students and they know that he
cares. Mark fosters good relationships with parents, promoting positive
parent and school partnerships. Outside of Hughston Elementary, Mark
is active in his church, volunteers his time advising families with Special
Needs children, and has been a volunteer Soccer Coach with PYSA.
Mark’s family includes wife, Tammy, daughters, Markell and Carley, and
son, Fisher.
Maria Cole
Maria Cole has been on the Hughston Elementary PTA Board for many
years, serving in several positions such as Parent Education, Safety and
Youth Protection and VP Membership. Maria has always looked for
ways to get Hughston parents involved whether it was though PTA
membership or researching topics for a parent education program. She is
ever ready to jump in whenever a volunteer is needed and always brings
a smile and great attitude with her. Maria is and has been a Room Parent
each year and helps out at several events throughout the school year
including Field Day, Spring Fling and Bike Rodeo. Maria is also the CoChairperson for the Tuberous Sclerosis Alliance of the DFW area. Maria’s
family includes husband, Phillip and sons Tyler, Austin and Dylan.
“
Service to a just
cause rewards the
worker with more
real happiness and
satisfaction than
any other venture
Brett Schuler
Brett Schuler has served on the Hughston Elementary PTA Board for
the last four years as SAGE Chair and Safety and Youth Protection
Chair. In Brett’s PTA positions, he has worked hard to bring a variety
of activities to students including organizing the Inclusion Awareness
program for Hughston, bringing back the Red Ribbon Balloon Launch
and coordinating our Bike Rodeo. Brett searches and reaches beyond
Hughston Elementary to find resources to bring these great programs to
our children. He is also involved with the Haggard Middle School PTA,
the Down’s Syndrome Guild of Dallas, and is President of the University
of New Mexico Alumni - DFW Chapter. Training for a half marathon
in March. Brett’s supportive and understanding family includes wife,
Candice, daughter, Makensie and son, Hudson.
of life.”
Carrie Chapman
Catt; American
Women’s Rights
Activist
62
Lori Turnbull
Lori Turnbull is the 5th Grade Team Leader at Hughston Elementary.
She is known for going above and beyond to make each student’s 5th
grade year memorable. Lori makes all children feel special and is often
found supporting students at their sporting events, dance recitals or
play productions. She has created many opportunities for the fifthgraders to grow into leaders by allowing them to prepare their own
send-off Graduation ceremony, heading up the Paw Patrol group caring
for animals in the Science lab, and organizing after-school clubs for
further learning. Lori is welcoming to parents and volunteers and attends
all the PTA activities at Hughston. Lori also coaches Youth Basketball
and Volleyball Development Camps. Lori’s family here is her husband,
Andrew, who supports her as she supports the students.
JACKSON ELEMENTARY
Robyn Burkhead
Robyn Burkhead has been Jackson Elementary’s “Rock” for 18 years.
Her students truly benefit from her daily dedication to the pursuit of
their success. She goes continuously above and beyond to work with
our families so as to ensure our school’s continued success as well. So,
serving as Jackson’s PTA Parent Volunteer Liaison comes as no surprise.
Everybody who lives in the Jackson Elementary community knows Robyn
and her place in their own child’s life. Robyn also serves as a role model
for other teachers on how to work with parents and she dedicatedly
works with the PTA to partner for student achievement.
Lea Harbour
Lea Harbour lives in our Jackson neighborhood and in her many roles
in the Jackson PTA, she has been instrumental in helping to bring
community and school together. This concept of neighborhood and
school involvement ensured both positive and impactful programming
for Jackson Elementary. Lea carried on the tradition that the PTA is here
to benefit the students, making sure EVERY student had the opportunity
to participate in field trips and in PTA programs. This led to a school and
community being more united as one family. Lea’s two sons have both
gone through Jackson Elementary and she has served for seven years
on the Jackson PTA. Lea served as the Hunt PTA President for two years
and previously served on several committees in addition to a plethora of
untitled posts. Jackson Elementary is sad to see our PTA mentor for so
many years leave us, but know she will go on to make her next school
home an exciting place for all of the Students, Parents and Teachers.
MATHEWS ELEMENTARY
Kristin Glasscock
Kristin Glasscock has not only been a PTA member for nine years, she
is also a staff member of Mathews Elementary. Her career at Mathews
began in 2008 when she became a 5th grade teacher and served in
that position for two years. She then transitioned to the PACE Specialist
and that is where you will find her today. She is so thankful for the
opportunity to learn and grow with her students as together they face
the challenges of logic, creativity, PACE curriculum and the continuance
of growing as lifelong learners in this age of astounding technology.
Along with her teaching, Kristin has also been the Box Tops Chairperson
for fundraising for two years and she has also sponsored the Mathews
“
How can I be
useful, of what
service can I be?
There is something
inside me,
what can it be?”
Author Unknown
63
Student Council for the last three years. Kristin is so happy to receive
this award. She is married to supportive husband, Chris and they have
two children, Grace (9th grade) and Caden (7th grade).
Deanna Lowenthal
Deanna Lowenthal is currently a 4th grade teacher at Mathews
Elementary. She is proud to call herself a Mathews Maverick for the
past ten years as she has been a Special Education Assistant, long-term
Substitute Teacher, and a 4th grade teacher. Deanna is a PISD graduate
and continued her education at Baylor University where she earned a
B.S. in Family and Consumer Sciences. Deanna received the “Beginning
Teacher-of-the-Year” award for the 2004-2005 school year and has
just been honored with this year’s “Teacher-of-the-Year” award for the
2015-2016 school year. Her contagious smile, positive attitude, huge
heart and caring manner for her students radiates in everything she does.
Deanna also has a firm belief in community service and founded the B
and B Give Back project that teaches children to care for others and that
one small act can make a big difference. Deanna’s husband, Andy, and
their two children, Britton (1st grade) and Brooks (pre-school) are so
proud of her and her accomplishments.
Traci Nichols
“
The highest
Traci Nichols has been a vibrant addition to the Mathews Elementary
PTA. She graduated from Plano Senior High School and has been a
Plano resident since 1980. She furthered her education at Texas A&M
and became employed as an Environmental Law Paralegal for more
than twenty years. During her time at Mathews, Traci has helped the
PTA in many ways such as heading up Junior Achievement from 20112016, serving as Carnival Chair from 2014-2016 and also helping with
Partnership/Restaurant Nights for the 2015-2016 school year. Traci’s
nurturing spirit has helped her make her mark at Mathews Elementary.
Traci’s husband, Darrell, and their two children, Sam (7th grade) and Ben
(4th grade) are very proud of this wife and mother.
Melanie Southerland
Melanie Southerland has been a member of the Mathews Elementary
PTA for five years. She and her husband Rich, and their two children,
Kate (7th grade) and Will (5th grade) moved to Plano from Melbourne,
is service to others.”
Florida in 2011. Since then she has played an active role in the Mathews
King George IV
PTA. Melanie is always willing to volunteer when and wherever needed
and she has been a very strong presence at the school. Melanie has
(1762-1830)
served as Chairperson and Co-Chair of the Book Fair from 2012-2014
King Of Great
and currently serves as the 5th grade Room Representative and the PTA
Parliamentarian for the 2015-2016 school year. Melanie continues to
Britain, Ireland
lend a helping hand and be a strong voice for the Mathews Elementary
and Hanover
PTA. She happily receives this award and credits her family with their
support in her endeavors.
of distinctions
64
RASOR ELEMENTARY
Winifred Lew
Winifred Lew has been a PTA member for ten years and has enjoyed
volunteering at Rasor Elementary School. Winifred has been there for
class parties, field trips, Field Day, Student Council elections, dances,
Fifth-Grade Picnic, Fifth-Grade Adventure Camp, Book Fair, and student
centers. She’s also served as the Student Supplies Coordinator. In her
spare time, (which she doesn’t have much of anymore since she’s been
unsuccessfully trying to potty train her family’s new 14-week-old Golden
Retriever), she enjoys playing Tennis, going to the driving range, Skiing,
and watching Football and Basketball games (she’s a San Francisco
49ers and Golden State Warriors fan). Winifred also enjoys traveling
with her husband and four children. (One at Clark High School, one at
Hendricks Middle School, and two at Rasor Elementary.)
Lori Pendegrass
Lori Pendegrass is the 5th-Grade Team Leader at Rasor Elementary
School. She graduated from The University of Texas at Dallas in 2006
with a Bachelor’s Degree in Business Administration. In 2009, she
decided to go back to school and get her Teaching Certificate to pursue
her true passion of working with children. The 2015-2016 school year
marks Lori’s seventh year in education and her third year teaching at
Rasor. She feels privileged to be at Rasor Elementary, a school with such
wonderful students, parents, staff, and community and Rasor Elementary
is lucky to have Lori, a teacher that displays unwavering commitment to
the success of her students both in and out of the classroom.
SAIGLING ELEMENTARY
Samantha Lupo-Leibaschoff
Samantha has been part of the Saigling Elementary family since
2009 when her oldest son, Ethan, started Kindergarten. (He is now a
6th-grader.) Eventually after some time off from having her twin boys,
Alexander and Brian, who are now in 2nd Grade, Samantha started
volunteering as Webmaster at Saigling and brought our Amazon
fundraising program to school (raising funds through a click on the
company’s banner). Soon after that, she started managing Saigling’s
social media and this year she is serving on the PTA Board as the
Communications & Webmaster VP Chair. Serving on the PTA Board
since 2011, Samantha also finds the time to volunteer in many and any
other school events. She is a dependable helping hand to the Saigling
staff and fellow PTA volunteers. Her dedication to the PTA, both as
a general member and a board member, have helped many Saigling
parents feel more connected and involved and up-to-date with all that
the PTA has available. Samantha is a proud promoter of PTA; always
encouraging people to join and get involved in supporting the school
and wonderful teachers. The Saigling community is better because of her
hard work and endless support.
“
“There is incredible
value in being of
service to others.”
Elizabeth Berg
Author
65
Paula Shuhart
“
Have you had a
kindness shown?
Pass it on;
‘Twas not given for
thee alone,
Pass it on;
Let it travel
down the years,
Let it wipe
another’s tears,
‘Til in Heaven the
deed appears –
Pass it on.”
Henry Burton,
Pass It On
66
Paula’s time with Saigling Elementary began when her son started
Kindergarten in August 1989. She then joined the Saigling PTA
volunteering in her son and daughter’s classroom as a “Room Mom”.
She also began substituting in PISD. Paula was excited to join the
Saigling staff as a part-time teacher in First Grade in 1994 and became
full-time in 1996. She was then needed at Gulledge Elementary for one
year but, happily, was able to return home to Saigling at the end of that
year. Paula has many great memories of Saigling Elementary and PTA.
Principals and teachers have definitively (de fin i tive ly) helped her grow
as a professional and she was chosen as the Saigling Teacher-of-theYear in the 2002-2003 school year. Her favorite memories have been
watching the children light up, getting excited about their successes and
progress they have made in their classrooms. Prior to working in PISD,
Paula also worked for one year in McKinney ISD as a Special Education
Teacher and then in Richardson ISD, teaching Kindergarten for a year
and rrd grade for three years. Paula’s heart is at home though at Saigling
where she is loved and respected by colleagues, families from both
past and present, and hundreds of beloved students from many years
of teaching. For her lifetime of PTA and Saigling Elementary service, this
PTA Life Membership award is our way of saying “Thank You”.
Lucia Weber
Lucia has been involved in PTA for seven years, serving as a Board
member for both Beaty Early Childhood and Saigling Elementary. At
Saigling, Lucia has been Council Delegate for the last two years, acting
as Liaison to our school in the Plano PTA Council. She is also serving
in the Plano ISD Key Communicators Group representing Saigling
Elementary. Lucia has been Saigling’s Legislation Chair in recent years
and she is currently volunteering in all three above-named positions.
Some of the successful programs Lucia has brought to our school
include “Celebrate Me”, a weeklong program for disability awareness,
and “Eat The Rainbow” Contest that promotes healthy eating for our
students. At Beaty, Lucia was on the PTA Board as Multicultural Chair
and was also a member of the SBIC (School Based Improvement
Committee). Lucia is very active in our community as a Board member of
several non-profits, including the NAANT (National Autism Association
of North Texas), which helps families affected by autism in the DFW
area, and she is also active as a liaison of several alumni associations,
including the University of Oxford Business alumni. Lucia is a valuable
member of the Saigling community and is dedicated to going above
and beyond to the best of her abilities. Saigling PTA, along with her
family, Ty, and children, George (4th grade) and Isabel (2nd grade), is
extremely proud to honor Lucia with this much-deserved PTA Lifetime
Membership Award.
SHEPARD ELEMENTARY
Nick Carroccio
As a Veteran of the United States Marine Corp, Nick Carroccio has
served us in more ways than one! He has served Shepard Elementary
for six years as Library Volunteer, Book Fair Coordinator, Room Parent
and has twice been the President of Shepard PTA. Last year as President,
Nick led the way creating the Patriot Dad’s Club - an organization that
brings dad’s together in organizing school events such as camp out and
movie nights, not to mention the Friday morning greetings to all the
students at walk-up and carpool. As they give their high fives, the smiles
and enthusiasm of each student is priceless. As a twenty year resident of
Plano, both of his daughters, Bianca (8th grade) and Sydney (5th grade)
have gone through Shepard Elementary. Nick also dedicates his time at
Wilson Middle School where he previously served as the PTA Ways and
Means Board Member and is the current Wilson PTA President. Aside
from PTA, he is also on two other Boards in the community. In his free
time, he enjoys fishing, hunting, camping and “hanging out” with his
girls. Nick is the local business owner of Clear 2 Close Inspections.
We will miss Nick’s hard work and dedication at Shepard as daughter,
Sydney, moves up to Wilson next year. This PTA award is our way of
saying “Thank You, Nick”!
Betsy Davis
Everyone at Shepard Elementary knows and loves our Library princess,
Betsy Davis. She has worked numerous, numerous, numerous hours,
committing so much of her time and energy in helping to transform
our Library into a wonderful and educational environment for everyone!
Shepard Elementary is in the process of establishing a STREAM Lab, and
Betsy has been devoting her days to coming up with hands-on activities
that support the teachers’ lessons. In addition to finding and creating
activities for the students and teachers in the STREAM Lab, she also
planned for the school’s first Hour of Code (computer coding) and a
school-wide STEAM Career Week (Science, Technology, Engineering, Art
and Math). Betsy also serves on the PTA Board as the Parliamentarian
and Library Volunteer Coordinator. She is the Grade Mom for First
Grade and assists with students in multiple grades who need a little
extra literacy support. Betsy especially enjoys lending a hand with the
younger students, whether it is helping to monitor the cafeteria during
Kindergarten lunch or serving as the Pre-School Liaison to help welcome
incoming Kindergarteners to Shepard Elementary. Betsy also volunteers
with a variety of school functions throughout the year and is part of the
PTA’s Hospitality team. Betsy’s two children attend Shepard Elementary
with Elijah in our 4th Grade and Evalena in our 1st Grade. Betsy is
married to very supportive and loving husband, Ian.
“
Kindness, like a
boomerang,
always returns.”
Author Unknown
67
Kathy Seal
Kathy Seal, a graduate of the University of North Texas, has been a
teacher for 29 years…Shepard Elementary School has been blessed with
15 of those years. Kathy attends First United Methodist Church and she
and her husband, Dennis, have three children, Colton, Samantha and
Sadie, who all attended Plano Schools. Teaching in her neighborhood
school has given Kathy a strong sense of community and pride for the
children, parents, neighbors and businesses here. Before returning to
work, Kathy served in PTA as a Room Parent, Volunteer Coordinator,
and on the Welcome Committee. She loves attending her children’s
functions outside of school, and, when the opportunity arises, she
enjoys cheering her students, past or present, at their sports events. As
a teacher, she supports PTA and has participated over the years in Fall
Picnic, Meet and Greet, Sock Hops, Multi-Cultural Night, Art Night, and
Math and Reading Night! She has been involved in Chair positions with
her children’s extracurricular activities and avidly supports the Plano
Wildcats! Shepard Elementary loves our Kindergarten teacher, Mrs. Seal!
The school is part of her fabric…and she is one of the threads that holds
the fabric of our school together!
SIGLER ELEMENTARY
“
Diana Beebe
Diana Beebe is a native Texan and a mother of two great daughters (a
Senior at Plano Senior High School and a 4th grader at Sigler Elementary
School). She also has two very stubborn dogs that exhibit more sibling
How can we
rivalry than her daughters ever do. When she’s not spending time
expect our children with her family or gardening, she’s a full-time, Award-Winning Fiction
Author, Technical Writer, and Editor with a Bachelor’s Degree from Texas
to know and
Christian University and a Master’s Degree from University of Texas At
experience the joy Dallas. She has served on the Sigler Elementary PTA Board as Parent
Representative, Secretary, President, and Parliamentarian. Sigler PTA is
of giving unless we
proud to award the Texas PTA Life Membership Award to Diane Beebe.
teach them that the
greater pleasure in
Kiera Caldwell
Kiera Caldwell is a graduate of the Meadows School of the Arts at
life lies in the art of Southern Methodist University in Dallas, TX. She has been teaching
Music for 13 years. Kiera has two daughters, Lyric and Xyla, and she
loves working as a Kodály Certified Elementary Music Teacher at Sigler
receiving.”
Elementary School. Awarding Kiera Caldwell with the Texas PTA Life
James Cash Penney Membership Award is an honor Sigler PTA is proud to present to this
deserving music lover and Music teacher.
giving rather than
(1875-1971);
Founder of J.C.
Penney Corporation
68
WEATHERFORD ELEMENTARY
Mily Bonilla
A proud graduate of Plano Senior High School, Mily Bonilla continued
on to Southern Methodist University (SMU), and then the University
of Texas at Dallas (UNT), where she completed her Masters Degree in
Communication Disorders. She has been a Speech-Language Pathologist
in Plano ISD for 14 years; 13 of those years at Weatherford Elementary.
Mily is married to Francisco, and they have two daughters, one in
3rd grade at Weatherford, and another in 6th grade at Wilson Middle
School. Mily has been a member of the PTA for all of her years in Plano
ISD and contributes regularly to school activities. She has also served as
the PTA Historian and as the school Spirit Wear Committee Lead. Mily
is a vital part of the PTA team at Weatherford, and it is with great joy we
recognize her for her service.
Beverly Dill
Along with her husband, Cal, Beverly Dill has become an expected
smiling face at Weatherford Elementary. Beverly is frequently seen
volunteering in the Front Office, and her commitment to participation
in school activities over the last four years is to be admired. “Willing” is
the best way to describe her availability for whatever tasks are required.
Beverly is well deserving of this honor. We are so grateful for her
service, and we look forward to working with her in the coming years.
Weatherford PTA is honored and pleased to present Beverly with this
special Award.
Cal Dill
Along with his wife, Beverly, Cal Dill has been a faithful contributor
at Weatherford Elementary for the past four years. He served as VP of
Membership during the 2014-15 school year and volunteers regularly
for activities such as the Fall Carnival, Field Day, class parties, and
Science Fair. Additionally, he has volunteered in the school Library and
with English language classes for Weatherford parents. He was originally
motivated to volunteer for the benefit of his grandson, a current
Weatherford Third grader, however none could deny his passion for the
growth of all students, parents, and staff. The Weatherford PTA is pleased
to honor Cal with the PTA Life Membership Award.
Wanda Rubrecht
Wanda Rubrecht, a retired Teacher, previously taught for 29 years in
Sugarland, Duncanville, and Hutchins, Texas. She has been volunteering
at Weatherford Elementary for over 13 years. Both of her grandchildren
attended Weatherford, David Rubrecht, now a junior at the University
of Illinois, and Dylan Rubrecht, a sophomore at Vines High School.
Wanda started out at Weatherford as a mentor to students in the various
grade levels. In the past ten years, she has been volunteering in the
Front Office. Wanda volunteers weekly, and is always eager to assist
in the office. Her sense of humor is a delight to be around and the
“
Unselfish and
noble actions are
the most radiant
pages in the
biography
of souls.”
David Thomas
69
great character she exhibits inspires both students and staff alike. The
Weatherford Elementary PTA is honored to present Wanda with this
Award for her selfless service.
WELLS ELEMENTARY
Fiona Fischer
Fiona Fischer has been an active PTA member at Wells Elementary since
2010. She has served as a Room Mom for three years, Membership Chair
for one year and currently is in her second year as Treasurer. She has
assisted as a Cafeteria parent, Kindergarten Centers helper, and field trip
chaperone as well as volunteering with Field Day, the Carnival, Library, and
the Nominating Committee. She has also helped with “cutting” projects,
and assembly of the school Directory. In addition to volunteering at
school, Fiona volunteers at her church for Vacation Bible School and has
served as a Sunday School teacher. In her professional life, Fiona enjoys
working PRN (as needed) at Presbyterian Hospital of Dallas as a SpeechLanguage Pathologist. She will be celebrating her fifteenth year there in
April. Fiona has also served as her Neighborhood Association President
for two years, but her favorite position of all is being “Mom” to her two
children, William in 5th grade and Karen in 3rd grade.
Sridevi Murugesan
“
Only those who
dare to fail greatly
can ever achieve
greatly.”
Robert Kennedy
70
Ms. Sridevi Murugesan spent several years teaching Classical Dance,
before becoming a school teacher. Over the years she realized that
she truly enjoyed working with young children, and left a successful
professional career as a Computer Programmer in 2011 to become a
full-time teacher. Sridevi has spent her entire teaching career, so far,
at Wells Elementary, where she has taught Second grade and Fourth
grade. During her years at Wells, Ms. Murugesan has served on the
SBIC committee, been a Math Vertical Team Chair for two years, helped
coordinate ‘Math Night’, served in the Math Textbook Adoption
Committee, and is currently a Mentor Teacher. She has been a teacher
member of the Wells PTA since 2011, which she believes plays an
integral part in providing a better educational environment for students.
Ms. Murugesan strongly feels that a good working partnership between
parents and teachers is a crucial part for every student’s journey through
Elementary school. She firmly believes in timely communication with
parents so that they are aware of their children’s strengths as well as
areas of growth. Ms. Murugesan sets high expectations for all her
students. She does recognize that every child learns at a different speed,
and may have a unique learning style, so she no longer teaches to the
entire class, but instead works with her students in small groups, thereby
providing a more individualized learning experience. Sridevi intends to
continue helping children be successful in school for many years to
come. She is excited and feels very honored to be a recipient of the
Texas PTA Lifetime Membership Award.
Linda Novak
Linda Novak currently holds the Safety/Youth Protection position for
the Wells Elementary PTA. During the last two years, she has put on two
very successful Red Ribbon Weeks with new and fun ways to involve all
of the students and even getting prizes for them to win. This past year,
Linda was able to enhance the safety of all our Wells school children
by convincing the City of Plano to put in a NO LEFT-TURN sign and
a long sought after crosswalk at our school. Linda volunteers in two
different grade levels, chaperons field trips, is a library volunteer and has
previously worked in Kindergarten Centers. She has helped coordinate
the First-grade performance and the 4th-grade National Anthem Hockey
Event. Linda not only spends hours helping at school events, she can
always be counted on to take pictures and was previously responsible
for the Yearbook. Linda can always be found walking the halls and
talking to the students. She enjoys spending time at the school, seeing
the children smile and helping out wherever she is needed.
CARPENTER MIDDLE SCHOOL
Kat Beckman
Mrs. Beckman has been an active PTA member for the past nine years
serving on the PTA Boards at both Harrington Elementary and Carpenter
Middle School for eight of those years. Kat Beckman started her PTA
journey putting her OCD skills to use; re-organizing the PTA room at
Harrington and leading the Spirit Wear efforts. Excited to be part of such
amazing schools, Kat soon joined the board and served in several Vice
President and Secretary Roles and participated in almost every committee
at one time or another. She was so excited about PTA and helping
children that she even spent a year serving as a Special Education
teacher for PISD. After many years of holding supporting roles in PTA,
Kat took the leadership plunge to become Carpenter’s PTA President in
2014-2015. When her time as President ended, she continued to serve
on the Carpenter Middle School Board. She laughingly refers to herself
as an “OG” of PTA. Carpenter Middle School staff, students and parents
are thankful for Kat Beckman.
Thanh Nguyen
Mr. Nguyen grew up in Vietnam where education came at a great cost
for many poor families. At an early age, he saw many students drop
out of school because of their families’ poverty and hardship. These
circumstances blazed a great desire and passion in his heart to help
others; he wanted to teach every indigent child without charging any fee.
Mr. Nguyen has taught Mathematics for the last eight years at Carpenter
Middle school. He has a heart for all students and strives to make Math
fun while bridging educational gaps. Thanh is a vital member of the
Leadership Team who is willing to go beyond the call of duty. Teaching
is his passion and he invests countless hours getting to know and
welcoming his new students during Open House and in his classroom.
“
In order to
succeed, we must
first believe
that we can.”
Nikos Kazantzakis
71
He is the epitome of what middle school leaders want in an educator; and
he is focused on the development of the whole child. Carpenter Middle
School staff, students, and parents are thankful for Mr. Thanh Nguyen.
Karin Schneider
Karin Schneider has been an active PTA member at Harrington
Elementary School and Carpenter Middle School since moving to the
USA seven years ago. Karin worked in various “behind the scene” PTA
duties at Harrington and was the Book Fair Chairman there for two
years. Being part of the PTA helped her settle in and get to know the
American school system. Happy by the work she saw being done by the
PTA, Karin later joined the PTA Board at Carpenter Middle school and
has been serving as School Store Coordinator ever since. She is known
as the “Candy Lady” and can be found every week behind the counter
in the PTA Store. Being visible at the school was a great way for her to
get to know the kids and teachers. Karin participates in most of the PTA
events throughout the school year and is always there happily getting
the job done. Carpenter Middle School staff, students, and parents are
thankful to have Karin Schneider.
HAGGARD MIDDLE SCHOOL
Christie Huckaby
“
Unity is strength...
when there is
Christie Huckaby grew up in a small Southeast Texas town called
Nederland. She moved to the Dallas area in 1997 to begin a career and
break out of her small town life. After nine years as a Paralegal, teaching
pre-school and volunteering many hours in the Legal Assistant world
of Collin County and also at Collin County Community College, she
undertook the full-time job of stay-at-home mom. Christie has held
several PTA Executive Board positions at Hughston Elementary and
Haggard Middle School, and on Advisory Boards, and has loved every
second of it! She is currently working as the Administrative Assistant to
the Children’s Pastors of Chase Oaks Church as well as holding her PTA
board positions. She has two wonderful children, 13-year-old Tristan and
eight-year-old Trinity, and her rescue Boxer, “Chewie”. Christie still fills
her free time raising her kiddos, spending time with her wonderful and
supportive husband of almost 20 years, volunteering at her church, and
co-leading Trinity’s Girl Scout Troop.
teamwork and
Liz Turner
collaboration,
In Liz Turner’s 11 illustrious years as the Haggard Middle School Choir
Director, she has become known to hundreds of students as “Mama
Turner” for her nurturing, caring, and student-centered nature. Over
the years, Liz has done a tremendous job building the Haggard Choir
program which is now nearly double its previous size. This growth is
largely due to the way Liz incorporates her students’ talents outside the
classroom. For instance, in the month of December, Liz and her Choir
students will promenade the Haggard halls serenading students and
wonderful things
can be achieved.”
Mattie Stepanek
72
staff alike by singing joyous and lively Christmas carols. She assists the
Theatre Department with the production of their yearly Musicals and
many of her students participate in the production as vocalists. She
has also been known to join her students in singing to the Principal
to brighten up her busy day. Liz participates and volunteers her time at
the annual PTA Multicultural Festival. She mentors beginning teachers
on campus and hosts student teachers year after year. Liz wears many
different hats at Haggard Middle School and does so with 100% heart,
commitment, passion and purpose.
HENDRICK MIDDLE SCHOOL
Anita Battista
H. Wayne Hendrick Middle School PTA is proud to honor Anita Battista
with the Texas PTA Honorary Life Membership Award. This is her fourth
year in Hendrick PTA where she has helped with Carnation sales,
Hospitality events and more. She is currently in her second year as 2nd
Vice President Membership. This is also her first year volunteering for
Plano Academy High School PTA, where she has helped at Back-ToSchool and Hospitality events and as a Morning Chaperone. An active
member of the John Rasor Elementary community for eight years, Anita
volunteered for their PTA in weekly distribution and teacher support
teams each year, grade-level centers for four years, class parties, Book
Fairs, special events, Teacher Appreciation and Hospitality events and
more. Her PTA Board positions included Secretary, Reflections Chair, 1st
Vice President Programs, and in her last year, President while leading the
PTA Board’s effort to establish online sales and membership. In addition,
she served twice on Rasor’s Site-Based Improvement Committee (SBIC)
and on the Office Helps team. In the Plano community, Anita helped
women facing unplanned pregnancies as a Patient Advocate at Real
Options for Women for six years and continues to volunteer on their
Office Helps team. She has attended and served at Chase Oaks Church
for twelve years helping in various ministries designed to connect
people to the church’s resources, small groups, and service opportunities
and other ministries that nurture spiritual growth. For Cub Scout Pack
2102, Anita was Advancement Chair and now coordinates Boards of
Review for Boy Scout Troop 747. She also helped with athlete checkin, competition floor and staging at the 2012, 2013 and 2015 Suzuki
Cup Tournaments hosted by the Academy of Classical Karate which is
sanctioned by USA Karate for USA team and international competition.
Anita currently works as a Freelance Editor. She is supported by her
wonderful husband, Joe, and her two sons, Sam and Tony. The patience,
grace and understanding they have shown for all her volunteer activities,
in addition to their activities and needs, have been invaluable and Anita
appreciates them immensely.
“
“You have to make
it happen.”
Denis Diderot
73
Kelly Britson-Milburn
H. Wayne Hendrick Middle School PTA is proud to honor Kelly BritsonMilburn with the Texas PTA Honorary Life Membership Award. Kelly
has served PTA in and outside of Texas for over fifteen years. This year,
as in previous years, she has been a very reliable volunteer even with
very short notice. For Hendrick PTA, she has served on the board as the
Socials Chair and the Special and Gifted Education (SAGE) Chair and
is currently the 8th-grade End-of-Year Event Co-Coordinator. In her
years volunteering for Beverly Elementary PTA, Kelly served on the Board
as Grade Level Coordinator, Field Day Coordinator, School Supplies
Chair and Auction Chair. While in Wisconsin, Kelly served on the Board
for Washington Elementary PTA as the Special Programs Chair. Staying
involved in her two children’s schools has been very important to her
even with her full-time work as a Program Manager, managing multiple
accounts and software implementation projects. She loves seeing all the
children enjoy events that she has coordinated. Kelly also volunteers for
Court Appointed Special Advocates (CASA) of Collin County and other
children’s programs. Her personal hobbies include reading, writing poetry
and playing volleyball and tennis. Kelly has two wonderful children, Asa
and Nick.
Adrienne Hunter
H. Wayne Hendrick Middle School PTA is proud to honor Adrienne
Hunter with a Texas PTA Honorary Life Membership Award. Ms. Hunter
is in her sixth year as Assistant Principal at Hendrick Middle School
and her eighth year in Plano ISD. She has served PTA as a member
extraordinaire because she loves everything Hendrick PTA does for the
school. Adrienne goes above and beyond her administrative duties in
many ways to help our PTA be its best. Each year, she helps ensure
programs such as Red Ribbon Week speakers, Socials and 8th-grade
end-of-year events are set up and running smoothly. Ms. Hunter also
is a key team member for school supply lists, delivery and distribution.
For every year in which Hendrick has had a Valentine fundraiser, she
was instrumental in coordinating the Carnation sales and distribution.
Adrienne is always eager to support our PTA’s efforts. Her previous
administrative position was as Administrative Intern at Renner Middle
“Kindness has a
School. Adrienne received her Bachelor’s degree in Interdisciplinary
Studies with an emphasis in Mathematics from Texas A&M Universitybeautiful way of
Commerce. After seven years in the classroom at Arnold Middle
reaching down into
School in Grand Prairie ISD, Adrienne completed her Masters degree in
a weary heart and Educational Administration with Principal Certification from Texas A&M
University-Commerce. She also holds an ESL Certification at all levels.
making it shine like
Adrienne is the second of three children and was an honor graduate
the rising sun.”
of the Booker T Washington High School for the Performing and Visual
Arts where she played Viola in the school Orchestra. She would like
Author Unknown
to acknowledge the PTA for thinking of her for this award. As she has
stated, “I love Hendrick Middle School PTA!”
“
74
SCHIMELPFENIG MIDDLE SCHOOL
David Deaton
David Deaton has been molding young minds at Schimelpfenig Middle
School for thirty-five years. THIRTY-FIVE! Coach Deaton’s first experience
with PTA was visiting a Book Fair in third grade. Since then he has
been a PTA member at his children’s schools, a charter member of
Schimelpfenig Middle School PTA and on the PTA cooking crew at
his grandchildren’s school. Coach Deaton has volunteered in youth
sports, Boy Scouts and is on the homeless feeding crew at his church.
Coach Deaton teaches Science to his students in such an enthusiastic,
fun way, that many cite him as their favorite teacher. He enjoys seeing
his students have success in school studies. Ever humble, Coach David
Deaton doesn’t believe he deserves this award. Instead he wants to share
this honor with Schimelpfenig Middle School families and teachers who
are committed to excellence in kids. David and his wife, Debbie, a retired
educator, have three children. Two of them, Mollie and William, are
following in their parents footsteps as teachers, while daughter, Erin is a
nurse. The Deaton’s also have two grandsons.
Stephanie McMahon
As a former Electrical Engineer, Stephanie McMahon has an eye for
detail. Luckily for Schimelpfenig Middle School, she uses that skill to
coordinate Library volunteers and provide support wherever needed.
Stephanie’s quiet nature, strong work ethic and easy-going demeanor
make her a valuable asset. She loves watching the kids grow from
elementary school students to successful high school students.
Stephanie likes to make sure they have a little fun along the way, by
helping at school socials, class parties and organization events. She
encourages the passions of her own children, Kira, an 8th grader,
and Collin, a 10th grader, by volunteering. For the past seven years,
Stephanie has helped coordinate community performances for Lee’s
US Taekwondo Demonstration Team. She also serves as the Parent
Administrator for the Dallas Asian-American Youth Orchestra. She
credits husband, Scott, with supporting the family financially and around
the house, so she has the time and means to volunteer.
Dave Meger
Dave Meger loves to fish, but his greatest catches are in the
Schimelpfenig Middle School classroom. He’s been casting his line there
for 34 years, reeling in students with his fun way of teaching Science.
He challenges his students to think for themselves and, in turn, the
students compliment him as a good listener who genuinely cares about
them and their future. Dave was a charter member of Schimelpfenig
Middle School PTA, previously coached both Basketball and Golf at
Plano Senior High School and coached PSA youth sports. He volunteers
for church activities and helps feed the homeless. Coach Meger shares
this award with all the great parents he has gotten to know over the
years. If you go to a Plano Senior High School sporting event, you are
likely to run into the Meger’s. Coach Meger’s wife, Lynn, is retired from
“
Always do your
best. What you
plant now,
you will
harvest later.”
Og Mandino
75
coaching PSHS Basketball, and both sons, Cole and Carson, are teachers
in the district. When he’s not cheering on the Wildcats or teaching in the
classroom, you may find Dave Meger camping or boating.
Lisa Weiser
Lisa Weiser has a front row seat to the middle school experience known
as lunch. She loves interacting with kids on the Wednesdays she spends
running the School Store in Schimelpfenig’s Cafeteria. She schedules
volunteers and stocks the store with items the students will like and
enjoy. Lisa also served on the PTA Nominating Committee and was
intent on recruiting just the right person for each job. Her hard work
paid off with nearly every position filled. She has pitched in at school
socials and as a Band chaperone. Lisa has been a PTA member for seven
years and also volunteers in her Synagogue’s Gift Shop and Learning
Center. As an example of Lisa’s caring nature, she used to volunteer
with Animal Rescue, but gave it up because she kept too many of the
animals she was fostering. Lisa has a Master’s degree in Early Childhood
Disorders and worked as an Intervention Specialist. She loves to read,
cook and spend time with family and friends. Lisa is married to husband,
Doug and has a son, Jacob, a 7th grader.
WILSON MIDDLE SCHOOL
Yvonne Bone
Yvonne Bone epitomizes the words enthusiasm, organization, and heart.
She is a bundle of energy who words tirelessly to provide for the needs
of all students. She goes beyond the call of duty to ensure the seamless
operation of the largest department on campus which positively impacts
everyone at Wilson Middle School. Her creation of the Hope Program
has provided the opportunity for both students and teachers to open
their hearts and minds to the differing needs of others. We are proud to
support her in the receiving of this Award.
David Morales
David Morales teaches the PACE Gifted and Talented Humanities
class at Wilson Middle School. He is the Lead Gifted and Talented
teacher and is involved in many programs at Wilson such as Whiz
Quiz, Geography Bee and Mock Trial. David Morales is well loved
by his students at Wilson. Ask any student what is the most fun and
“We shall never
challenging class they had in middle school and the answer is Mr.
Morales’ PACE class. Former Students of Mr. Morales who are now in
know all the good
high school say that they are so thankful that “Mr. Mo” really prepared
that a simple smile them for the rigor and challenge of high school. Mr. Morales’ classroom
is a safe environment for these PACE kids to express themselves freely.
can do.”
For those who find it hard to sit still for an entire class period, they
Mother Teresa
are allowed to move around as long as they are not disturbing other
students. Through group projects, students learn to collaborate and
accept other view points. For his dedication to his students at Wilson,
our PTA honors David Morales with the PTA Life Member Award.
“
76
Sandhya Seshadri
Sandhya is the parent that has made such a difference in our schools.
Her ideas are well received and often implemented. For example, she
had the idea to have Elementary students experience the diversity
within Special Needs. Sandhya truly wants every student to succeed.
She will often be seen tutoring other students in Math. She is not
only committed to the schools her children attend, but assists in the
community as well. She is a concerned neighbor and always wants to
help others in need whether it is to take a meal to someone that has
had surgery or help when someone’s house has burned. She often
thinks of others by dropping off treats for no reason at all. Sandhya is
very deserving of this PTA Life Membership award.
CLARK HIGH SCHOOL
Natalie Bauerkemper
Clark High School PTSA is excited to award the one and only Natalie
Bauerkemper with a Texas PTA Life Membership. Natalie is a beloved
teacher at Clark, where she is the ESL Department Chair. Natalie’s positive
tone and bright spirit influence everyone with whom she comes into
contact. Her genuine love and affection for her students shows through
everything she does and she is committed to helping each student
reach their fullest potential. This is her ninth year as a educator, having
worked previously in Garland ISD and Bryan ISD. Natalie’s teaching
philosophy is that relationships serve as the key to unlock the doors to
student success. This helps her to employ the Rogerian Core principles
of empathy, unconditional positive regard and genuineness. Natalie
would like to dedicate this award to her mother and grandfather, who
instilled the passion she has for education today. Natalie has a BA in
English Language Arts from the University of North Texas-Denton and
a M.Ed. in Educational Leadership and Policy Studies from University of
Texas at Arlington. Natalie enjoys international travel, and she volunteers
with many organizations around North Texas, most notably volunteering
monthly to make over 100,000 meals for the homeless community
in Dallas Special One’s Network and making care packages for troops
overseas. She is also active in the Lupus community and she volunteers at
various other events throughout the year including the annual Easter Egg
Hunt and Christmas party for adults and children with special needs with
the Daughters of the American Revolution (DAR). She has a wonderful
husband who is the love of her life...and a cat named Meow Ming!
Will Daniel
Will Daniel makes leadership look easy. His creative energy and hard
work are evident everywhere at Clark High School. As Assistant
Principal, Will leads with compassion and student focus. He has been
an educator for seven years, with a BA in History, Minor in Secondary
Education and Masters in Educational Leadership from the University
of Texas at Arlington. Before coming to Clark, Will was a History/PACE
“
Great works are
performed not by
strength but by
perseverance.”
Samuel Johnson
77
teacher at Haggard Middle School and an Administrative Intern at Otto
Middle School. Will was inspired to pursue a teaching career because
of Pat Tomberlain, a teacher who opened Will’s eyes to learning. Mr.
Tomberlain’s passion for his craft and visible joy, everyday, in what he
did inspired Will to want to be like him. Will’s teaching philosophy is
routed in his belief that learning isn’t easy for all. Many kids can lose
confidence in themselves and their ability to learn, and then fall through
the cracks if they aren’t simultaneously challenged and nurtured by
powerful teaching. He believes teachers have the tremendous honor
and responsibility to help ALL children believe they can achieve things
they never thought possible. Will is thankful for a PTSA and parent
community that supports the students and staff. He enjoys coming to
work every day because of the staff and students who make Clark such
a joyful place. Will also serves others through church mission trips. He
loves spending time with his family and enjoys golf and travel. He and
his lovely wife, Kallie, are anticipating the arrival of their second child
as a sibling to their son, Rhett. The Clark High School community of
students are fortunate and privileged to have a role model who shows
it is possible to live a life of integrity, compassion and empathy, and an
appreciation of what each day has to offer!
Luat Phung
“
Work hard,
be kind, and
amazing things will
happen.”
Conan O’Brien
78
Clark High School PTSA is pleased to present Luat Phung with a Texas
Life Membership Award. Luat is a dedicated parent volunteer who
has been active in PTA for almost five years. He currently serves as
Council Delegate for Clark PTSA, where he volunteers in order to better
understand his son’s learning environment. Luat is a Patent Examiner for
the U. S. Patent and Trademark Office. He especially enjoys sharing his
love of his profession with students on Career Day, and finds it most
rewarding when students ask questions and show genuine interest in
a career as a Patent Examiner. In addition to volunteering for PTA, Luat
also volunteers in the Vietnamese community and Temple. Luat enjoys
mind games (puzzles) and classical guitar. He dedicates this award to
his son, Luke. The Clark High School community is lucky to have Luat
working on our behalf! Clark High School PTSA is pleased to honor
Luat Phung, for all he does and continues to do to benefit the lives and
educational experiences of our students.
VINES HIGH SCHOOL
Kevin Barker
Kevin Barker is Canadian-born and grew up in Toronto, Ontario. In
fact, he still maintains his Canadian citizenship even today. He moved
to South Carolina in 1985, relocated to Georgia a few years later, and
has been in the Dallas/Plano area since 1993. Kevin graduated from
the University of North Texas with a Bachelor of Science in Geography
in 2003. He came to Plano ISD in 2006 where he joined the Social
Studies Department at Vines High School. His entire teaching career
has been at Vines, where he serves as Team Leader and Teacher for
AP Human Geography and World Geography. He is admired and
appreciated by students, parents, and staff alike and is an invaluable
member of the Viking team. Kevin and his wife, Amy, who works as a
nurse at Parkland Hospital, reside in Sachse. They are the proud parents
of two precious girls - Kara (age 8) and Kaylee (age 3). When Kevin
isn’t busy teaching at Vines, he enjoys spending time with his beautiful
family, which includes coaching his daughter, Kara’s, Soccer team.
Junaid Najamuddin
Najamuddin has been actively involved in PTA since 2009. Before
joining PTA Haggard in 2012, he was instrumental in establishing PTA
for a Charter School in Garland. Pivotal in registering it as a 501(c3)
organization and streamlining its By-Laws, he served as its Treasurer
until 2012. When Najamuddin and his family moved to Plano in the
same year, he joined the Haggard PTA Board and is heavily involved
in PTA activities. He then joined Vine’s PTSA Board in 2014. Currently,
he is a Board Member at both Haggard and Vines. He serves as Vine’s
Key Communicator representing Vines in Plano ISD. Najamuddin works
in IT and holds an MBA in Global Management and Marketing. He
is passionate about future leaders and does what he can to help and
assist them. He believes in the John F. Kennedy philosophy of what can
you contribute for your country/community, not what your country/
community can give to you. Najamuddin is married to Mehreen
Samiullah and has two sons, Afaan Junaid, a 10th grader at Vines, and
Ehsaan Junaid, a 6th grader at Haggard. To inculcate his volunteering
philosophy, Najamuddin’s elder son regularly volunteers for the Support
your Troops Organization. Both of his sons have ambitions to join
the United States Army. Najamuddin was also on the City of Wylie
Library Advisory Board from 2005 till 2012. He is a Trainee Pilot and
member of Aircraft Owners and Pilot Association (AOPA). Previously
volunteering with Crossroads Family Services and the City of Plano
Police, Najamuddin helped render assistance and support to families
involved in domestic violence.
“
Everybody can
be great. Because
anybody can serve.
You don’t have
to have a college
degree to serve.
You don’t have to
make your subject
and your verb
agree to serve.... You
don’t have to know
the second theory
of thermodynamics
in physics to serve.
You only need a
heart full of grace.
A soul generated
by love.”
Martin Luther
King, Jr.
79
2015-2016 Plano ISD Council of PTAs
Officers
President
1st VP-Aide
2nd VP-Programs
3rd VP-Membership
4th VP-Volunteers
5th VP-Communications
Treasurer
Secretary
Historian
Parliamentarian
Amy Nelson
Laura White
Kelley Thomas
Nancy Sennetti
Debbie Ernst
Jamie Hanna
Penny Chapman
Lisa Heise
Jeanette Newland
Dave Fuchs
Chairmen
Arts in Education
Community Outreach
Cultural Inclusiveness
Early Childhood
Environmental
Healthy Lifestyles
Hospitality
Leadership Mentor
Legislation
Newsletter
Publicity
SAGE
Ways & Means
Webmaster
Hsuan Chiu
Michele Mecca
Graciela Katzer
Cathy Talbott
Christine Slote
Kim Soto
Rebekah Woodland
Courtney Bruhn
Clara Baroncelli
Suzy de Silva
Meredith Marmurek
Dragana Pavlesic
Jasmine Alpaiwalla
Dan Garcia
Special Committees
Community Liaison
TOTY Liaison
Outstanding PTA
Non-title I mentor
Non-title I mentor
Community Membership
SAGE Expo Coordinator
Life Membership
Plano Chamber Liaison
Graciela Katzer
Tamra Sadafsaz
Christa Holland
Denice Burke
Paula johnston
Rhonda Snyder
Paula Bramble
Becky Byrley
Deb Alves
District Representatives
Administration
Early Childhood
Elementary
Middle School
High School/Sr. High
School Board
80
Karla Oliver, PISD Communications
Dr. Dina Rowe
Jamey Allen
Jason Myatt
Brian Lyons
Carrolyn Moebius