Accomplishments noted in WISD campus reports
BY SUZANNE LOUDAMY Staff writer

Principal Tony Black congratulates Brian Crawford on joining the group of National Merit finalists at Whitehouse High School.

Monday's school board meeting was filled with what's good about Whitehouse ISD students and campuses. The meeting began with the introduction of Brian Crawford, WHS senior and National Merit Finalist. Crawford gained this honor for his score on the PSAT taken his junior year.

"Only one percent of all students who take the PSAT will reach this level," WHS Principal Tony Black said. "We are extremely proud of his efforts and proud he is one of our students."

Crawford's parents, Roy and Elaine Crawford, were on hand to celebrate the recognition of their son's accomplishment.

David Smith, Whitehouse Junior High principal, shared a long list of accomplishments and accolades from his campus. A huge shining football trophy started the process as Smith bragged on the junior high team for their undefeated season. Their record of nine wins and no losses coupled with a scoring record of 435 Wildcat points to only 35 points scored against them makes for a promising future for Wildcat football.

The praises went on to include the school's championship in the Coats for Kids program for the third consecutive year. Academics, extra-curricular activities, community service and honoring Veterans were all on Smith's inventory of achievements by his students and faculty.

During the business portion of the meeting trustees approved an order authorizing the issuance and sale of the district's unlimited tax school building and refunding bonds, Series 2007, providing for the redemption of outstanding bonds of the district, engaging a paying agent for the bonds, engaging bond counsel and resolving other matters relating to the bonds.

Approval was also given for a ratification of a construction manager-at-risk contract with Denson Construction Company, Inc.

Mr. Black asked the board for its blessing on an innovative math course that will offer high school students an in-between prep class for college level math. Trustees approved this new course.

Campus principals and representatives from Cain, Brown and Higgins gave an overview of campus instructional programs including English as a Second Language, reading recovery, TAKS preparation, and many other lessons that not only encourage students academically, but include community and character building.

Following the executive session, trustees approved term contracts, probationary contracts and dual assignment contracts for the 2007-2008 school year.

With March 12 being the last day to file for a position on the WISD School Board and the administration office being closed for Spring Break March 12-16, anyone wishing to file on that final day must go to Tom Tatum's office at 109 Hwy. 110 South in Whitehouse. Their office hours are 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. Their phone number is 903-839- 4335.