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Bandera County Courier is published weekly by Gail S. Joiner, 1210 Hackberry St., Bandera, TX 78003. Subscription price $26 per year in Bandera County, TX; $36 per year for other Texas counties; $40 per year out of Texas. POSTMASTER: send address changes to Bandera County Courier, P.O. Box 1704, Bandera, TX 78003. Periodicals Postage pending in Bandera, Texas.

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The Bandera County Courier
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Items should be typed or printed and should include the name and daytime phone number of a contact person. Items submitted after deadline will be considered for that week's edition but may be held over for later publication. Photos should include information on the time and place of the event, as well as full names of people from left to right, front row to back.

Bandera ISD articles

BHS's Keel remains optimistic despite uncertain future	Published March 6, 2008
Ms. Fix It class set March 13	Published March 6, 2008
Bandera ISD 2008 Job Fair set for March 29	Published March 6, 2008
Projection Graduation Prom Fashion Show March 30	Published Feb. 28, 2008
Fast-thinking HCE student saves friend in lunch room	Published Feb. 28, 2008
TAKS testing scheduled changed for first week of March	Published Feb. 7, 2008
BISD superintendent receives vote of confidence	Published Jan. 24, 2008
Spanish dance class resumes Jan. 16	Published Jan. 10, 2008
BHS band and choir members jazz up the holidays	Published Jan. 3, 2008
Recruiting at Bandera High	Published Dec. 27, 2007
Distributed flyer details gripes with school district	Published Dec. 27, 2007
Wording worries some PC-wary believers	Published Dec. 6, 2007
‘High School Musical’ coming to BMS stage	Published Nov. 29, 2007
Music boosters host garage sale Saturday	Published Nov. 29, 2007
SRO at November BISD board meeting	Published Nov. 22, 2007
Bulldog band receives 'Superior' rating	Published Nov. 15, 2007
Three BMS students selected for regional choir	Published Nov. 15, 2007
Students encouraged to make good choices	Published Nov. 15, 2007
District Veterans Day ceremony planned at Alkek	Published Nov. 8, 2007
BISD receives 15 gold acknowledgements	Published Nov. 8, 2007
BISD reassures parents	Published Oct. 25, 2007
Hill Country Elem students recognized	Published Oct. 25, 2007
Bandera Homecoming hoopla	Published Oct. 11, 2007
'College Day' planned for BISD students, parents	Published Oct. 11, 2007
File now for free meals	Published Oct. 4, 2007
Special BHS Homecoming celebrates '7's'	Published Sept. 27, 2007
Alkek awarded almost $1,500 via BoxTop$ for Education	Published Sept. 27, 2007
Nominations sought for BISD gifted & talented program	Published Sept. 27, 2007
BISD cheerleaders bring back honors	Published Sept. 13, 2007
Early instruction Spanish language classes	Published Sept. 13, 2007
BISD offers Spanish dance classes	Published Sept. 13, 2007
Volleyball camp Friday	Published Aug. 16, 2007
Bandera High School parent meetings scheduled	Published Aug. 2, 2007
Bandera ISD new school year calendar	Published July 26, 2007
Bandera students on Baylor’s Dean’s List	Published July 19, 2007
Sorrell receives 4-H SALE scholarship	Published June 28, 2007
Keel named new principal at Bandera High School	Published June 21, 2007
New board members, new principal at Bandera ISD meeting Tuesday	Published June 14, 2007
Scores climbed, administrators slimed	Published June 7, 2007
Summer nutrition program	Published June 7, 2007
Making history – Bandera HS one-act play competes at state	Published May 31, 2007
Two BHS seniors receive Cailloux scholarships	Published May 10, 2007
Registration for Bandera Kindergarten, Pre-K, Head Start set	Published April 26, 2007
Bandera High School UIL winners	Published April 26, 2007
BHS One-Act students heading to state competition	Published April 26, 2007
BMS 'Opal' receives top honors	Published April 26, 2007
Random steroid testing may hit Friday night lights	Published April 19, 2007
Two dozen BHS band members advance to state	Published April 19, 2007
Star Steppers earn Division 1 at MA Nationals	Published April 19, 2007
BHS Choir sings for the Spurs	Published April 19, 2007
Orozco named new principal for Alkek Elementary	Published April 19, 2007
60-year class reunion planned	Published April 12, 2007
Rummage for good cause	Published April 12, 2007
Monday is school for Bandera students	Published April 5, 2007
TAKS Reading Scores for 3rd and 5th Grade Students	Published March 29, 2007
Tops popped for Ronald McDonald House	Published March 29, 2007
BPA sending six to national leadership conference	Published March 29, 2007
BISD Job Fair set for March 31	Published March 29, 2007
Star Steppers take numberous awards at Alamo Classic	Published March 15, 2007
Alkek principal announces resignation	Published March 15, 2007
BACIT unveils site plan for new tennis court project	Published March 15, 2007
Project Graduation's Barbecue and Pageant Thursday	Published Feb. 22, 2007
Why is the after-school tutoring bus so empty?	Published Feb. 22, 2007
Bandera ISD announces updated 2007 calendar	Published Feb. 22, 2007
TAKS testing service on-line	Published Feb. 15, 2007
Bandera BPA students to attend regional conference	Published Feb. 8, 2007
School Job Fair March 31	Published Feb. 8, 2007
Scholarships available from Bandera County Republican women	Published Feb. 8, 2007
Bandera athletic director announces resignation	Published Feb. 1, 2007

Other school articles archived in the on-line edition of the Courier by school:

• Current & recent school articles
• General school articles from 2006 and 2005
• Medina ISD
• Pipe Creek Christian
• Utopia ISD
• Bandera ISD 2006
• Bandera ISD 2005

BHS's Keel remains optimistic despite uncertain future by David Arny BCC Staff Writer Published March 6, 2008 Bandera High School Principal Theresa Keel.    Bandera High School Principal Theresa Keel may be feeling some heat from a segment of parents dissatisfied with recent administrative changes brought about during her first year at BHS, but she remains confident that improved test scores will prove those reforms were necessary for the students’ overall academic success.     Despite her contract not being renewed at a Feb. 12 board meeting, Keel also remains confident of her support by BISD Superintendent Dr. Kevin Dyes and school board trustees.     “I see good things going on at BHS,” said Keel. “I see happy kids in the hallway.”     Keel acknowledged students faced difficulty going from a four class per day schedule to eight 45-minute classes, but insists the switch has already produced tangible results.     “We’ve seen the Advanced Placement Honor Roll increase to 38 percent – more than one out of three. We’ve increased instruction time by 60 hours per class since we went to the eight-period schedule. And we’ve seen our discipline rate go down by 88 percent compared to last year,” she said.     Keel credits the shorter, more learning-intensive classes with helping the students stay “more focused, more on task and less likely to become distracted” during the school day.     “The state mandated four math, four English, four science and four social studies credits for graduation,” said Keel. “We had to increase the classroom hours for the kids to earn those credits in addition to taking the great electives they love to take.” Keel added that she believes electives such as agricultural sciences, athletics, band and drama help produce more “well-rounded individuals.”     “I cannot stress enough what great teachers and students we have at Bandera High School – they’ve worked really hard to get to where we are,” she said. “My job is to do what’s right for the kids.”

Ms. Fix It class set March 13 Published March 6, 2008    Bandera ISD’s Office of Parent Involvement is sponsoring a special two-hour Ms. Fix It Workshop for Women on plumbing and caulking Thursday, March 13, from 6:30 pm to 8:30 pm. An enrollment fee of $10 will be charged to all participants.     Bonnie Tom from Tomboy Tools will be presenting the workshop. Interested parents and patrons can sign up for the class by contacting Tracy Thayer or Yessenia Torres at 830-796-6300. The workshop will be held at the Bandera ISD Parent Involvement Center located at 815 Pecan Street in Bandera. Child care will be provided for participants during the workshop.

Bandera ISD 2008 Job Fair set for March 29 Published March 6, 2008    Bandera Independent School District will hold its fifth annual Job Fair on Saturday, March 29. Representatives from both Bandera ISD and Medina ISD will be available to visit with prospective employees from 9 am until 10:30 am. Applicants are encouraged to bring several copies of their resume to the job fair.     From 10:30 am until 12 noon, individual interviews will be held, scheduled by campus administrators based upon future employment opportunity needs. Applications prior to the event may be completed online, by accessing the Bandera ISD Human Resources web site at www.banderaisd.net.     Applications for prospective Medina ISD employees may be downloaded at www.medinaisd.org.     The Bandera ISD Job Fair will held at the Bandera ISD Central Administrative Building located at 815 Pecan Street in Bandera. For additional information, please call 830-796-6250.

Projection Graduation Prom Fashion Show March 30 Published Feb. 28, 2008    Project Graduation will host a Prom Fashion Show Sunday, March 30, beginning at 2 pm, at the Silver Sage Corral Senior Activity Center, 803 Buck Creek Boulevard. Doors will open at 1 pm, and the show will begin at 2 pm.       Available vendors include retail stores, florists, make-up consultants and photographers for on-site photography. Refreshments will also be available. In addition, vendors will provide door prizes.       Admission is $7 with proceeds to benefit 2008 Project Graduation.

Fast-thinking HCE student saves friend in lunch room by David Arny BCC Staff Writer Published Feb. 28, 2008 Third grade buddies, Jessie Zinnel and Connor Chesshir, gave each other a “high-five” after Chesshir came to Zinnel’s aid during a lunchtime choking emergency.    The first sign that third-grader Connor Chesshir’s best friend Jesse Zinnel was in trouble was a tap on Connor’s shoulder as the pair left the lunch room at Hill Country Elementary School, Thursday, Feb. 21.     “He was holding his throat,” recalled Chesshir, “and he wasn’t saying anything.”     “I said, ‘Can you talk?’ and he shook his head no. Then I said, ‘Can you breathe?’ and he shook his head no again. That’s when I knew he was choking.”     Chesshir immediately stepped behind his friend and grasped him around his midsection.     “I put my right hand under his ribs and made a fist, then I put my left hand around my right hand and pushed straight up,” he said.     It was over so fast, teachers in the cafeteria weren’t even aware of what had happened until after Zinnel’s windpipe was clear and he was breathing normally again.     “Thank you for saving my life,” Zinnel told his fast-thinking pal following the ordeal.     Chesshir’s mom Judy, a fourth-grade teacher at Hill Country, was amazed at her son’s skill at delivering the Heimlich maneuver to his friend. She asked him later that day where he’d learned how to perform the life-saving exercise. Chesshir said he remembered it from the posters in the school cafeteria – something he looked at every school day while waiting in line for lunch. Lucky for Zinnel, his chum was observant.     The two friends attend Christy Phelps’ third grade class at HCE.

TAKS testing scheduled changed for first week of March Published on-line Feb. 7, 2008    The Texas Education Agency announced that the State Testing Calendar is being adjusted to ensure that no Texas Assessment of Knowledge and Skills (TAKS) exams are given on primary election day, March 4. The change was announced because many schools throughout the state are used as polling places. The Commissioner of Education, Robert Scott, decided to change the testing calendar after consulting with many superintendents, testing coordinators and education service center directors.     Under the new calendar, all tests scheduled for March 4 through March 6 will be given one day later than originally scheduled. The exit-level TAKS social studies exam will be moved from March 7 to March 3.

BISD superintendent receives vote of confidence by David Arny BCC Staff Writer Published Jan. 24, 2008    The Bandera Independent School District's Board of Trustees unanimously approved an extension of Superintendent Dr. Kevin Dyes' contract at the Tuesday, Jan. 15 meeting. The decision followed a closed conference among board members which lasted slightly more than two hours. Dyes will continue to serve at the helm of the BISD administration through the 2010-2011 school year, at which time his contract is up for renewal.     The trustees' vote of confidence in the superintendent's job performance comes at a time when a number of local parents have a less supportive view of his management style. They also vehemently oppose district policy decisions which they lay at the door of Dyes.     Chief among their complaints is the recent replacement of several BISD school administrators and faculty members and a return to an eight-period school day after using the four-period per day, so-called "block schedule," for many years. In addition, according to one of the grievances listed on a flyer handed out to BISD trustees prior to their closed-door deliberations, "Dr. Dyes has not shown an ability to work with parents who raise concerns." The flyer was endorsed by 100 Bandera County residents, including current students and former district employees.     Concerns have run the gamut from what is perceived as harsh penalties for pupils who have their cell phones out in class ($15 fine) to an insufficient amount of time allotted for lunch period (30 minutes) to an alleged lowering of academic standards at Bandera High School to allow the district to meet ratings "artificial" requirements mandated by state lawmakers and the Texas Education Association (TEA).     During the Citizens Comments segment of the school board meetings, a number of parents have expressed these and other complaints - for the most part, in an orderly, respectful way - and have shown no sign of abandoning their opposition to current BISD policy changes.     In a recent Courier interview, Dyes went over some of the decisions that have displeased a segment of Bandera County students and parents. He also spoke candidly about what he sees as his role as superintendent of BISD.     "I have a lot of confidence in the instructors and faculty members of our schools," said Dyes. "When a parent has a grievance against a teacher, there are procedures in place to deal with that grievance. Ideally, the parent can request a meeting with the instructor and, hopefully, resolve the issue. If he or she isn't comfortable talking to that individual, a conference with the principal should be requested. The principal needs to make the final decision on campus issues. For me to contact that teacher and say, 'What is this about?' would undermine the principal's authority and tell him I don't have confidence in his ability to do the job. The chain of command needs to be honored, and that's been mandated by the board of trustees."     Asked about friction caused among students and parents due to adoption of the new class schedule, Dyes said he understood that "some changes are tough," but believed "daily instruction is critical." He contrasted the old schedule with the one introduced at the beginning of the 2007-2008 school year. "Especially with math and science courses, it's much better for the student and instructor to meet daily. Every other day just isn't enough," he said.     The block timetable allowed most BHS students time to do homework during the last segment of each period. With the new class schedule, high schoolers suddenly found themselves bringing home class assignments nightly.     "An important part of my job is preparing students for college," said Dyes. "Freshmen students at colleges and universities who take even average course loads often find themselves overwhelmed by homework. I believe students - especially high school juniors and seniors - must be accustomed to doing regular homework assignments. That way, the transition from high school to college won't be such a shock for them."     Perhaps the most disturbing charge made by some individuals at recent school board meetings is that the administration is lowering standards so graduation rates, at least on paper, would appear to be improving.     While Dyes acknowledged that requirements for students' advancement from one high school grade to the next had been relaxed slightly, he pointed out prerequisites for graduation had not changed and defended the attempt to reduce the number of students held back.     "When you've got a student who's struggling to earn the credits they need to move on to the next grade level, and you hold them back because they lack one or two credits, you're basically confirming their fears that they just might not be smart enough to ever graduate from high school," said Dyes.     "They still need the same number of credits to graduate and the required scores on the TAKS (Texas Assessment of Knowledge and Skills) or TAAS (Texas Assessment of Academic Skills) tests remain the same for receiving a Texas high school diploma. There's an added emphasis on helping these students advance without adding the stigma of not advancing with their classmates, unless it's absolutely necessary."     Dyes noted that summer school classes at BISD, which assist this type of student, had been $75 per course in the past. The classes are now available free of charge.     "We need to ensure all kids are held to high standards," Dyes said. "And I've been to (schools) where extra effort has paid off."     The native Texan motioned to a small wooden plaque on his office desk which reads, "How does this benefit BISD?"     "That's my only real consideration when a decision needs to be made. This really isn't about me," he said.

Spanish dance class resumes Jan. 16 Published Jan. 10, 2008    Bandera ISD's Ballet Folklorico Maya Spanish dance class will be accepting new students after the Christmas holidays. Dance classes will resume Wednesday, Jan. 16.     Classes are two hours from 6 until 8 pm and will meet at the Bandera ISD Central Administration Building at 815 Pecan Street in Bandera.     New students are requested to come in comfortable clothing and tennis shoes to practice. Both boys and girls, grades two through eight, are welcome to participate. The troupe is sponsored by the BISD Office of Parent Involvement and is under the direction of Lily Heinemann.     For more information, call 830-796-6300 or 830-796-6272.

BHS band and choir members jazz up the holidays Published Jan. 3, 2008 The BHS Jazz Band perform at Hill Country Elementary. The BHS Jazz Choir on stage at the Bandera ISD Employee Banquet. The BHS Jazz Band pose with younger students before a concert at Hill Country Elementary.    The BHS Jazz Band and Jazz Choir performed for the students at Hill Country Elementary and at the Bandera ISD Employee Banquet.

Recruiting at Bandera High Published Dec. 27, 2007    BISD student Ben Hevenor (left) listened to a presentation by ROTC rep Kyle Bryson and Megan Tracy, members of the Texas A&M University recruitment program, in the BHS cafeteria during his lunch break Dec. 17.     As Hevenor's sweatshirt indicates, the College Station pair were preaching to the choir, since the freshman's number one goal is to become an Aggie after he graduates from high school. Information for prospective students of the venerated institute of higher education can be found at http://admissions.tamu.edu/

Distributed flyer details gripes with school district by David Arny BCC Staff Writer Published Dec. 27, 2007    During the citizens' comments portion of the Tuesday, Dec. 11, meeting of the Board of Trustees of Bandera Independent School District, a group of parents voiced their opposition to recent changes in school policy.     A flyer detailing some the group's main points of contention with BISD was purportedly downloaded from the MySpace website and distributed at the meeting. The manifesto was supposedly written by a high school student and posted on the popular online "blog" (web log) site.     However, the Bandera County Courier could not confirm authorship of the piece using a Google keyword search nor by using the MySpace bulletin search engine.     Nevertheless, the unedited flyer is reprinted below in its entirety.     To borrow a phrase from Fox News, "We report, you decide."     Text of flyer:     *You know your school's falling apart when:     *Students (especially the senior class) are rebelling.     *Students & Teachers are complaining there's not a long/often occurring enough enrichment periods.     *Seniors eat in the hall as there "off-campus" lunch they were promised is being cut short.     *Rules have been established although when teachers can give out homework.     *When the high schoolers are allowed backpacks, but the elementary kids are being forced to use a binder, in fear of weapon transport...(THEY'RE JUST LITTLE KIDS!!)     *Your administrators are rarely seen and/or questioning you to see how everything is going.     *Bus drivers are so few numbered, that certain students spend approximately 2+hrs on the bus/day     *Performing drug testing is taken into a consideration (though it is a complete invasion of privacy!!)     *Students are being forced to pay for their phones after so many incidents.     *Bathrooms are finally being unlocked, (why were they even locked in the first place?)!     *All elective courses are being afford, though that may mean only 5ish kids in one class; therefore having to cut that class due to so few students.     *School board meetings are as interesting as they have ever been.     This was a bulletin on myspace.... I thought you might find it interesting. It was written by a high schooler. But I won't mention any names because Mrs. Keels husband might talk about it in the paper.

Wording worries some PC-wary believers by David Arny BCC Staff Writer Published Dec. 6, 2007    Several local citizens were recently dismayed after discovering the wording of the Bandera Independent School District calendar for the upcoming student, staff and faculty holiday schedule.     Instead of the traditional "Christmas Break" designation for the four-day respite from classes, the words "Winter Break" designated the period from Dec. 25 through 28.     This re-wording has led some to fear that BISD is giving its approval to a secular, more politically correct, term for the annual commemoration of Christ's birth.     In an interview, Brad Domitrovich, BISD public relations director, said that the same wording is used by the Northside Independent School District as well as the Kerr County and Boerne school districts in their December calendars.     Doing a quick search on the internet, Domitrovich pointed out that Comal County appears to be the only nearby area whose school district calendar still refers to the Christmas Break by its traditional name.     "I'm honestly not sure how long we've been using the words 'Winter Break' on our Educational Support Calendar," said Domitrovich, "but our online calendar lists Dec. 24 as Christmas Eve and Dec. 25 as Christmas Day.     "Just for the record," he added, "we work with the Bandera County Christian Fellowship to make our students aware of the Fifth Quarter Program ­ a post-sporting event non-denominational Christian youth outreach ­ and we adhere to an unwritten policy not to schedule student activities on Wednesday nights, so there won't be conflicts with our students' church commitments.     "We're also one of the few districts that still offers an end-of-year baccalaureate program."     Conservative author and attorney Joseph Kerry recently coined a term for the very real phenomena of school districts across the nation being forced to eliminate any reference of Christ from end-of-year holiday observances ­ "A-B-Cs," or, "Anything But Christmas."     In a thought-provoking essay posted on radio personality Glenn Beck's website, www.glennbeck.com, Kerry lists school districts across the country enacting policies seemingly designed to evoke the ire of traditionalists.     For example, according to Kerry, the Maplewood School District in New Jersey decided that the Columbia High School band must substitute "Frosty the Snowman" and "Winter Wonderland" for "O Come All Ye Faithful" and "Silent Night," so as not to run afoul of the much-touted "wall of separation" between church and state. In addition, other instances abound of schools in dozens of states prohibiting pre-football game prayers,     banning references to God at graduation ceremonies and even declaring school campuses off-limits to after-school Bible study groups ­ while rolling out a red carpet for gay and lesbian student groups to use school facilities.     Domitrovich said that traditional Christmas tunes will be part of the Bandera High School and Bandera Middle School band concerts scheduled for Dec. 4 and 6. In addition, familiar Christmas hymns will be included in the BHS Choir's performance scheduled for Monday, Dec. 10.     Referring to the upcoming holidays as "Winter Break" may simply be a pragmatic decision by BISD officials to avoid receiving a registered letter written on ACLU stationary demanding they cease and desist from using the word "Christmas." More likely, however, administrators simply had more pressing issues at hand than the wording on one of the district's calendars.     (Editor's note: For a more comprehensive look at the debate between governmental entities and religious holidays, Christmas in particular, see "He who pays the piper," available online at www.banderacountycourier.com/viewpoin.htm.)

‘High School Musical’ coming to BMS stage Published Nov. 29, 2007    Thespians with the Bandera Middle School Theatre Department will bring favorite characters from the hit Disney movie, “High School Musical,” to the stage. Filled with musical numbers and comical moments, “High School Musical” will bring all generations "Together" for a night of fun-filled entertainment.     The show opens at 7:30 pm, Friday, Nov. 30, at the Bandera High School Auditorium. Other show times include 7:30 pm Saturday and Sunday, Dec. 1 and 2, with a 3:30 pm matinee slated for Sunday.     Tickets, which cost $5 for adults and $3 for students, are on sale now. For tickets, contact Judi Chesshir at Hill Country Elementary, 830-535-6151; Duna Morris at Alkek Elementary, 830-796-6223; and Sandy Jennings at BMS, 830-796-6270.     “Start your holiday season off with a night of family entertainment and help the BMS Theatre Department ‘Bop to the Top’,” said a theater department spokesman.

Music boosters host garage sale Saturday Published Nov. 29, 2007    The Bandera High School Music Boosters will host a garage sale Saturday, Dec. 1, from 8 am until 4 pm at Love’s Antique Mall in Bandera.     Any items donated would be greatly appreciated. Contributed items can be dropped off at Love’s through Friday, Nov. 30. Individuals may also rent space for $20.     Funds raised will help pay the way for the Bandera High School Band and Choir's trip to Orlando, Fla., in March to attend the “All-Star Music Festival.”     Call Pam or Randy Love or Michael Palmer at 830-796-3838 for more information.

SRO at November BISD board meeting by David Arny BCC Staff Writer Published Nov. 22, 2007    A standing room only crowd of students and parents attended the November meeting of the Bandera ISD Board of Trustees as some audience members voiced their displeasure over recent changes implemented by the board.     Foremost among complaints from students, as well as parents, was this year's adoption of an eight class period day instead of the so-called "block" schedule used for the past several years at Bandera High School. Under the old block schedule, four 90-minute classes were held daily, with eight classes taught over a two-day period. This allowed students sufficient time to do homework assignments or receive tutoring during the last 30 minutes of each class.     The downside to the old plan, said Brad Domitrovitch, BISD spokesman, was the difficulty teachers had in keeping all their students "engaged" for 90 minutes at a time.     "It only worked well for students who were average or above average learners," said Domitrovitch. "It was hard for teachers to keep many of their students focused for that long at a time.     "Will there be problems with the new schedule? Of course," he said. "Change is never easy. Students who've been here for two or three years will have a harder time adjusting to the new schedule than the ones who just started. We think that with parents and teachers working with students, any problems associated with the changes can be minimal."     The parent of a BHS student used the public comment period to complain about the hour and a half bus ride his son makes to and from school daily. He said that last year, his son spent only about half of this year's total en route and asked why the district didn't increase prospective drivers' pay in order to hire more and cut students' travel times.     Domitrovitch said that BISD is always looking for qualified drivers and pays experienced drivers comparable wages to other districts such as Medina and Northside ISDs.     "We've had some bus drivers retire who were making above average pay. On the other hand, when a driver takes maternity leave or takes time off under FMLA (Family Medical Leave Act), we can't legally terminate them," he said.     "In a rural county with 400-plus square miles and 32 routes to cover — do the math. It takes time to drive all our students to and from school safely, but yes, we're trying to fill those positions as best we can."

Three BMS students selected for regional choir Published Nov. 15, 2007 Pictured left to right are Amber Wise, April Rodriguez, Darby Lenihan    Three Bandera Middle School students auditioned for the Region 11 Middle School Choir. Amber Wise, April Rodriguez, and Darby Lenihan were selected and will perform in the Region 11 Concert at John Jay High School in San Antonio.

Bulldog band receives 'Superior' rating Published Nov. 15, 2007    The Bandera High School Marching Band earned a rating of “Superior” at the Region 11 Marching Contest in Hondo. The Band performed their award winning routine “Santana” featuring the music of Carlos Santana.

Students encouraged to make good choices Published Nov. 15, 2007 Lawrence Clark entertains BMS students during a Red Ribbon Week assembly.    K-Star Youth and Family Services teamed up with Texas Heritage Music Foundation to bring Lawrence J. Clark from Houston to Bandera Middle School during Red Ribbon Week. Clark entertained the students with his one-man show consisting of music, poetry, storytelling, and dramatic performance. His presentation encouraged the middle schoolers to set their sights on their goals, complete their education, and make good choices.

District Veterans Day ceremony planned at Alkek Published Nov. 8, 2007    Alkek Elementary School will host Bandera ISD's Veterans Day Celebration at 9 am Monday, Nov. 12. The program will be titled "Honoring Those Who Serve" and will feature music, speeches, and specials guests.     All veterans are invited to attend as special guests of honor. The Color Guard, Rifle Team and Choir from the Navy Intelligence Operations Command will present the colors and sing the National Anthem. Veterans may stay for a free lunch at Alkek, or go to any Bandera ISD campus cafeteria to receive a free lunch in appreciation for serving our country.

BISD receives 15 gold acknowledgements Published Nov. 8, 2007    Bandera ISD and its campuses, received a total of 15 acknowledgements under the Texas Education Agency's Gold Performance Achievement (GPA) system. The GPA system recognizes schools for high performances or improvement in areas critical to the academic success of students.     Bandera ISD earned four Gold Performance Acknowledgements including Commended on Writing, Commended on Social Studies, Texas Success Initiative ELA and Texas Success Initiative Mathematics.     Bandera High School earned three Gold Performance Acknowledgements including Commended on Social Studies, Texas Success Initiative ELA and Texas Success Initiative Mathematics.     Bandera Middle School earned four Gold Performance Acknowledgements including Commended on Reading/ELA, Commended on Writing, Commended on Social Studies and Comparable Improvement Reading/ELA & Mathematics.     Alkek Elementary earned one Gold Performance Acknowledgement including Commended on Science. Hill Country Elementary earned three Gold Performance Acknowledgements including Commended on Mathematics, Commended on Writing and Commended on Science.

BISD reassures parents Published Oct. 25, 2007    (Editor's note: Administrators with the Bandera Independent School District have issued a prepared statement in response to schools in several states reporting increased incidents of serious infections and even deaths related to methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus, or MRSA. Although MRSA (pronounced MEER-suh) does not respond to penicillin or similar antibiotics, it can be treated with other drugs. The infection can be spread by sharing items, such as a towel or a piece of sports equipment previously used by an infected person, or through skin-to-skin contact with an open wound.)     The following statement was issued by BISD to allay parental concerns:     Over the past few days, television stations and newspapers have been covering stories on the outbreak of several infectious diseases, such as staph infection, in schools across the country.     Since many of our offices have received inquiries, the district wants parents and the public to know what sanitation and cleanliness procedures are in place.     Bandera ISD is committed to the safety of all our students. From our youngest students in prekindergarten to our current senior class, our schools teach the importance of personal hygiene as a preventative measure in the spread of infectious diseases. Our students learn from their teachers, nurses and coaches about the importance of washing their hands, not sharing personal items and keeping their clothes and related equipment clean.     Our schools are cleaned by individuals trained in the proper technique and application of safe sanitation products. Public areas and classrooms are cleaned regularly to ensure a safe health environment, not just for our students and personnel, but for the public visiting our campuses and facilities.     Earlier this week, all of our school cafeterias received a perfect score (zero demerits) in an inspection by the heath department.     The district takes student safety seriously. With proper education and procedures in place, our schools will remain a healthy environment for our children. Parents are encouraged to contact their individual campus if any concerns arise.

Hill Country Elem students recognized Published Oct. 25, 2007    Two fifth-graders from Hill Country Elementary School were recognized as Bandera ISD's Students of the Month by the Board of Trustees on October 9.     Kate Martin from Jacob Tijerina's class and Wesley Joseph from Robyn Langston's class were honored by Superintendent Kevin Dyes, Board President Barbara Skipper, and Principal Renee Gase.     Also at the Board of Trustees meeting, Alex Scharein (center) performed Amazing Grace on his lap harp after the Pledge of Allegiance. Alex is a kindergarten student at HCE.

Bandera Homecoming hoopla Published Oct. 11, 2007 Members of the 2002 state championship football team returned for their five-year reunion. Photo by Sandra Jennings Members of the Class of 1947 cheered Members of the Class of 1957 remained stoic Presenting Mr. and Miss BHS, juniors Caleb Murphy and Veronica Wellborn. Photo by Sandra Jennings    Bandera High School Stadium jumped during the BHS Homecoming 2007 celebration on Friday, Oct. 5.     “The Parade of Decades” halftime ceremony filled the field with alumnae, beginning with the class of 1937. Members of the 2002 Texas State Champs Bandera Bulldogs had a reunion of sorts under the Friday Night Lights. And juniors Veronica Wellborn and Caleb Murphy were selected Mr. and Miss BHS.     Capping off the excitement, the Dogs emerged victorious in their scuffle with another team of cantankerous canines, the Marion Bulldogs.     By everyone’s account, it was a four-quarter dogfight, with “Good boys” offered to the Bandera Bulldog defense for snarling, scrapping and nipping at their opponents all evening. As with all exciting football games, this one came down to the wire.     With just seconds left on the clock, the Bandera defense held their opponents on the goal line. Their tenacity kept Marion from scoring and ensured the Boys from Bandera a 28-21 victory. Find many more photos on this link.

'College Day' planned for BISD students, parents Published Oct. 11, 2007    "College Day" will be held at from 1 pm until 3 pm in the Bandera High School Cafeteria, on Thursday, Oct. 11.     Representatives from over 50 colleges, universities and career schools have been invited to participate as well as from all branches of the US military.     "This is a great opportunity for our students and their parents," said BHS Counselor Charlie Dickey. "In one afternoon, they can have face to face discussions about their futures with so many entities."     Parents and community members are encouraged to attend "College Day." Participants should enter BHS through the main entrance doors to receive their visitor passes. For more information, contact BHS at 830-796-6254.

File now for free meals Published Oct. 4, 2007    According to Bandera ISD administrators, the USDA requires a new meal application to be filed each school year, allowing children to continue receiving free or reduced price meals.     Parents are reminded that benefits for students who have not completed a new application will expire Tuesday, Oct. 9. On Oct. 10, a student's status will revert to paid if a new application has not been filed.     For questions, contact the BISD School Nutrition Services office at 830-796-6294.

Special BHS Homecoming celebrates '7's' Published Sept. 27, 2007    Special festivities and events for Bandera High School's 2007 Homecoming have been planned for the week of Oct. 1 through Oct. 5.     "We think this year's homecoming the biggest and the best ever," said BHS Principal Theresa Keel.     Homecoming week kicks off at 6 pm on Monday, Oct. 1, with the annual Homecoming Parade through downtown Bandera with Dusty Britches serving as emcee. The parade begins at Bandera Middle School and proceeds down Cherry Street to Main Street, ending at the corner of Main and Cypress streets. The "Burning of the B" and senior rally will take place in the BHS parking lot at the parade's conclusion.     Homecoming Night for the BHS Volleyball team will be Tuesday, Oct. 2, when the Lady Bulldogs take on the Wimberley Texans at 7:30 pm in the BHS gymnasium.     Other homecoming activities are set for Friday, Oct. 5, beginning at 3:15 pm with a pep rally in the BHS gym. At 6 pm, the Bandera ISD Education Foundation will sponsor an alumni tailgate gathering in the parking lot of Bandera Middle School. Shuttle service for alumni will be available to and from the stadium.     Dogs take on Dogs at 7 pm when the Bandera Bulldogs play host to the Marion Bulldogs at BHS Stadium. Halftime activities include the presentation of the 2007 Homecoming Court and the "Parades of Decades." Sponsored by the education foundation, the parade honors BHS alumni who graduated in years ending in the numeral "7," such as 2007, 1997, 1987 and earlier.     The homecoming dance, sponsored by the BHS Star Steppers, will be held in the gym immediately following the game and will end at midnight.

Alkek awarded almost $1,500 via BoxTop$ for Education Published Sept. 27, 2007    Last year the Alkek Elementary School students brought in more than $1,400 worth of Box Top$ For Education. The Alkek Parent Teacher Organization donated the earnings to school librarian who made significant contributions to the school library.     For every Box Top$ turned in, the school earns one dime. These Box Top$ can be found on hundreds of household products, including Nature Valley Granola Bars, Kleenex, Cheerios, Ziploc Bags, and Betty Crocker Brownie Mixes.     To help Alkek students bolster their reading program and library, drop off any Box Top$ collected to Alkek Elementary School or at the drop off box in the Kronkosky Library of Bandera County. Box Top$ can also be mailed to Alkek Elementary PTO, PO Box 727, Bandera, 78003.

Nominations sought for BISD gifted & talented program Published Sept. 27, 2007    Nominations for Bandera ISD's Gifted and Talented Program, Project Horizon, are being accepted throughout the school year for students in grades 1-5 at both elementary campuses, grades 6-8 at the middle school and grades 9-12 at the high school.     According to the district's Gifted Education plan, nominations may be received from any teacher, parent or member of the community at large.     In addition, nominations may be made by downloading the on-line nomination form from the Bandera ISD's Family Center web page.     Send completed form to Tracy Thayer, PO Box 727, Bandera, 78003. BISD staff will screen students nominated for eligibility.

BISD cheerleaders bring back honors Published Sept. 13, 2007 Keyla Alanis    The Bandera High School cheerleaders brought several team and individual honors back to Bandera after attending Universal Cheerleaders Association Camp. Junior Varsity Team Captain Keyla Alanis, pictured, was voted "All Star" and the varsity team received a "Superior" rating. In addition, the junior varsity and freshmen teams both received a "Blue" rating.

Early instruction Spanish language classes Published Sept. 13, 2007    An after-school class in Spanish for elementary school students is being offered from 3:30 pm to 4:30 pm on Tuesdays and Thursdays at Alkek Elementary School.     Classes began Sept. 11. Classes are free to all Bandera ISD students in grades 1-5 who wish to learn or improve their Spanish language skills. Instructor Graciella Mendez has previously taught Spanish language classes in Mexico.     For students to attend this special after-school program, parents must sign and return a permission slip. However, no school transportation is available for students attending these classes. For more information, contact Tracy Thayer at 830-796-6300 or Yessenia Torres at 830-796-6272.

BISD offers Spanish dance classes Published Sept. 13, 2007    Bandera ISD is offering Spanish folkloric dance classes for students in first through fifth grades from 6:30 pm to 7:30 pm. Wednesday evenings. Classes began last night, Sept. 12.     Classes are taught by Lilly Heinemann, an experienced dance instructor who has taught dance in Mexico. The sessions take place in Portable Building 2 at the BISD Central Administrative Building, 815 Pecan Street.     The Spanish dance classes are free to BISD students; however, parents must sign and return a permission slip for students to attend.     For more information, contact Tracy Thayer at 830-796-6300 or Yessenia Torres at 830-796-6272.

Volleyball camp Friday Published Aug. 16, 2007    A girls’ volleyball camp for seventh and eighth graders will take place from 9 am until 3 pm Friday, August 17, at the Bandera Middle School Gymnasium.     Registration will be held from 8:30 am until 8:55 am. All participants must have permission slips signed by a parent or guardian, and are reminded to bring a lunch. The camp costs $10. For more information, contact Billie Reeves at 830-510-4533.

Bandera High School parent meetings scheduled Published Aug. 2, 2007    Parents of Bandera High School students are invited to attend an information presentation with new Principal Theresa M. Keel beginning Wednesday, Aug. 1. The meetings will be in the BHS Auditorium and will start at 7 pm.     Keel will present information about the upcoming school year at Bandera High School, share her beliefs and values regarding education, and review ways that parents and teachers can work together to have students reach their greatest potential.     Freshman parents will meet Wednesday, Aug 1, sophomore parents will meet Thursday, Aug. 2, junior parents will meet Monday, Aug. 6, and senior parents will meet Tuesday, Aug. 7.

Bandera ISD new school year calendar Published July 26, 2007    The first day of school in the Bandera Independent School District is Aug. 27, but there's other dates that are important for the upcoming school year.     New student registration is Tuesday through Thursday, Aug. 14-16, at all campuses.     There are three “Meet the Teachers” events scheduled. Bandera Middle School's event will be Tuesday, Aug. 21, Bandera High School's will be Thursday, Aug. 23, and the Alkek Elementary and Hill Country Elementary will host their events Friday, Aug. 24. The time is 6:30 pm for all events.     Substitute Teacher Training will be held Tuesday, Aug. 14, at 9 am at the central office.     The next regularly scheduled school board meeting will be Tuesday, Aug. 14, beginning at 6:30 pm at central office.

Bandera students on Baylor’s Dean’s List Published July 19, 2007    April Kneifel, Chantal Kneifel, Hana Manal and Breanne Walker, 2006 graduates of Bandera High School, have been named to Baylor University’s Dean’s List, said a spokesman for the university.     These students were recognized for maintaining a grade point average of 3.7 or better out of a possible 4.0 while enrolled in a minimum of 12 semester hours.     “We congratulate these former Lady Bulldogs on their impressive accomplishment,” the spokesman said, adding “Sic ‘em Bears!”

Bandera ISD special board meeting Monday, July 23 Published July 23, 2007    The Bandera Independent School District will meet Monday, July 23, beginning at 6:30 pm at the Central Office Building on 815 Pecan Street in a special meeting to consider the appeal of a parent/student grievance concerning disciplinary actoin involving a student in extrecurriculare activities.

Sorrell receives 4-H SALE scholarship Published June 28, 2007 Brittany Sorrell    Brittany Sorrell, a 2007 graduate of Bandera High School and member of Bandera County 4-H member, has received a 2007 San Antonio Livestock Show Expedition (SALE) School Tour Scholarship, according to Warren Thigpen, county extension agent.      Sorrell, along with other members of her family, actively volunteer on the SALE School Tour committee. The school tour program gives young students an opportunity to learn about agriculture in a safe and organized manner, as well as to participate in the stock show experience through educational activities.      Each year, high school participants in 4-H, FFA, and Family, Career and Community Leaders of America organizations from South Texas may serve as tour guides for the school tour program at the San Antonio Livestock Show.

Keel named new principal at Bandera High School Contributed Published June 21, 2007 New Bandera High School principal Theresa Keel brings 20-plus years of experience to BISD.    Theresa M. Keel, an educator and administrator for 20 years, has been named the new principal of Bandera High School effective July 1st. The recommendation to hire Keel was approved by the Board of Trustees at their June 12th regular meeting. “We are very happy to be able to hire someone of Ms. Keel’s talent and experience” stated Superintendent Dr. Kevin Dyes. “She will be a great addition to our administrative team.”     Keel comes to Bandera High School from Sealy ISD where she served as the Director of Special Programs. She has also served administrative leadership roles at both Anderson-Shiro CISD and Denton ISD. Prior to becoming an administrator, Keel was a classroom teacher for 15 years. She taught high school level mathematics for Plano ISD, Ft. Worth ISD, Socorro ISD, and Ysleta ISD.     Keel earned her Bachelor of Science in Education from Eastern New Mexico University. She received her Master of Arts in Educational Leadership from Texas Woman’s University. She will be moving to the Hill Country area with her husband George who is a retired law enforcement officer.

New board members, new principal at Bandera ISD meeting Tuesday Published June 14, 2007 New Bandera Independent School District board members Greg Hicks and Rick Groomer get down to business after being sworn in by Judge Richard Evans. Staff Photo by David Arny    Newly-elected BISD School Board members Greg Hicks and Rick Groomer, as well as reelected trustee Genevieve Modarelli, were administered the oath of office by Judge Richard Evans at the Tuesday, June 12 meeting. Following the brief ceremony, another election was held; that of board officers who will serve from June until May 2008.     Dr. Barbara Skipper was elected Board President, Genevieve Modarelli vice-president, Lee Haile secretary and Rick Groomer assistant secretary.     The board also welcomed new Bandera High School Principal Theresa Keel, who was hired after Mike Nesbit resigned from that position. Keel was formerly the Sealy ISD’s Director of Special Programs and brings with her over 20 years experience as a teacher and administrator.

Scores climbed, administrators slimed by David Arny BCC Staff Writer Published June 7, 2007 Hill Country Elementary Principal Reneé Gase, left, Vice Principal Angela Pofahl, and school counselor Trish Luna (behind Gase) were transformed into a trio of human banana splits Friday, June 1, as part of the special event celebrating HCE students' TAKS test scores. Staff Photo by David Arny    The last day of school for Hill Country Elementary pupils included a special assembly celebrating the third through fifth graders' improved scores on their Texas Assessment of Knowledge and Skills (TAKS) Tests.     The highlight of the event involved student participation in an activity that normally would be grounds for their being required to stay after school and write 100 times on the chalkboard the words, "I will not throw food on my principal."     School Counselor Trish Luna, Principal Reneé Gase and Assistant Principal Angela Pofhal good-naturedly underwent a metamorphosis from professional educators to frozen desserts by a procession of pupils who gleefully wielded handfuls of bananas, spoonfuls of ice cream, and squeeze bottles of chocolate syrup.     The Texas Education Agency has not yet finalized official tabulation of TAKS scores. However, preliminary results revealed progress on the part of students and faculty in their quest for Exemplary status. Currently, HCE is a Recognized campus.     Raw results indicate the biggest jump in students' scores was in science, with 91 percent earning a passing grade this year compared with 83 per cent in 2006. Math scores climbed four percentile points, from 95 percent of students passing in 2006 to an impressive 99 percent in 2007. Writing scores improved one point to reach a 93 percent score this year and results for the reading portion of the test remained at 97 percent of students passing for both years.     "I'm very proud of the students' successes over the past three years," said Gase. "The exams have gotten more difficult, yet students and staff have accepted the challenge. It's one thing for a school to remain successful, but it's so much harder to improve year after year, the way we have."     According to BISD Communications Director Brad Domitrovich, the official state results will be released in the next few weeks.

Summer nutrition program Published June 7, 2007    Summer should be a break from study, not good nutrition. Children still need to be properly nourished to ensure that when school resumes, they are ready to learn. Bandera ISD is doing its part by helping children stay nutritionally fit during part of the summer break, through meals offered in a summer food program.     Beginning June 4 and ending June 29, all children 18 years of age and younger are eligible to receive free breakfast and free lunch. This is a free service to all children, regardless of income levels. Meals are available in the cafeteria at Alkek Elementary School located at 1798 Highway 173 South and Hill Country Elementary School located at 6346 FM 1283 in Pipe Creek.     Breakfast times are 7:30 to 8:30 am. Lunch times are 10:30 am to noon. All meals must be consumed in the cafeteria. Food items may not be shared or taken out of the cafeteria. Anyone over the age of 18 may purchase a meal for $2.75. Meals are not available on Saturdays or Sundays.

Making history – Bandera HS one-act play competes at state By Ashley Jennings Special to the Courier Published May 31, 2007    A journey that began in early this year culminated Thursday, May 3, in Austin when Bandera High School theater students won First Runner-Up in the Texas UIL One-Act Play State Final competition for their version of William Shakespeare’s “A Merchant of Venice.”     The following is cast member Ashley Jennings’ account of the historic undertaking. January’s morning air blew through the cabins, piercing the bodies of those waking. At 6 am, weary theatre kids woke from their slumber for a day of rehearsing, intensifying scenes and unity. This would be the first morning of their journey together.     “One-act retreat is a tradition and is very important every year,” said senior Chris Abdo. “This was the first step of a long journey – it prepared us for the future and truly made us a family.”     After days of retreat at Camp Sionito, the one-act play endured months of rigorous festivals, an entire week of practice over spring break and intense rehearsals in preparation for District, Area and Regional competitions.     After more than five months, the “Merchant of Venice” had become a force to be reckoned with. Capturing over 18 individual acting awards and championship trophies in every division, the actors paved a clear path along the road to state – and, along the way, made history for BHS and the Bandera community.     “It was a rough start and it seemed like we worked for hours,” junior Josh McCoy said. “It was all worth it in the end, though. I cherish every moment and will remember every second on stage.”     After capturing district, area and regional championships, the thespians brought BHS to Basse Hall, winning second place at the UIL 3A State Championships. The following cast and crew received awards at district, area, regional and state contests:     • District - Ashley Jennings, Best Actress; Josh McCoy and Chris Abdo, All Star Cast; Bryce Jeter, Jordan Boyson and Harrison Anderson, Honorable Mention All Star Cast; and Mindy Gotthardt, Crew Award.     • Area – Jennings, Best Actress; Abdo, All Star Cast; McCoy and Jeter- Honorable Mention All Star Cast; and Dory Kemp, Technical Award.     • Regionals - McCoy and Jeter, All Star Cast; and Abdo and Jennings, Honorable Mention All Star Cast.     • State – McCoy, All Star Cast; and Jennings and Abdo, Honorable Mention All Star Cast.     As members of the cast and crew, the following students also participated in the trek to State: Harrison Anderson, Jay Baca, Jordon Boyson, Scarlett Brown, Kab Burgess, Kevin Cissell, John Coomer, Reilly Downes, Mindy Gotthardt, Sierra Haile, Dory Kemp, Lamar Lewis, Shealynn McCoy, Brandi Neely, Samantha Schubert, Andrew Sharpe, Mitchell Soukup and Chris Vlahodimitropoulos.     In addition, Rose Jeter served as costume designer and Monica Sharpe and Cynthia Anderson were assistant directors.     “I’ve been waiting for this moment for 28 years,” Director Roslyn Houghton said. “When I think of it, still makes me cry.” This was her first trip to the State level competition.

Two BHS seniors receive Cailloux scholarships Published May 10, 2007 Ashley Jennings Jessica J. Thompson    Two Bandera High School seniors were awarded scholarships from the Floyd A. and Kathleen C. Cailloux Foundation of Kerrville, according to Betty Vernon, program director.     Ashley Jennings and Jessica J. Thompson will receive up to $12,000 annually for undergraduate studies. In addition, the scholarships are renewable for up to four years for a maximum multi-year award of $48,000 per student. Scholarship recipients must attend four-year public or private colleges or universities in Texas.     Jennings plans to study journalism at the University of Texas at Austin, while Thompson will major in accounting at Baylor University in Waco.     Both Jennings and Thompson met or exceeded a minimum Scholastic Aptitude Test (SAT) score requirement of 1022, or a minimum American College Test (ACT) score of 22. They also maintained a minimum grade average of 85 and are in the top one-third of their class.     Final selection of recipients for the scholarship awards were overseen by Scholarship Program Administrators (SPA) of Nashville, Tennessee. To make the final selections, SPA utilized standard comprehensive recipient selection procedures. These procedures included consideration of past academic performance, financial need, statement of career goals, educational aspirations, work experience, unusual personal or family circumstances, leadership skills, participation in school and community activities, recommendation letters and an essay.     "We hope providing these awards helps motivate not just the actual scholarship recipients but all students to improve their grades and test scores as well as to consider helping others in their communities," said Sandy Cailloux executive director for the foundation.

Registration for Bandera Kindergarten, Pre-K, Head Start set Contributed Published April 26, 2007    Registration for Kindergarten, Pre Kindergarten, and Head Start for the 2007-2008 school year will be held Tuesday through Thursday, May 1-3, at all Bandera ISD elementary schools.     Alkek Elementary School, located at 1798 Hwy 173 South in Bandera, will have their office open for registration from 9 am until 2 pm. Hill Country Elementary School, located at 6346 FM 1283 in Pipe Creek, will have their office open for registration from 9 am until 3 pm. This pre-registration is not required for students currently attending a Bandera ISD elementary school.     Kindergarten     If the child will be five years old on or before Sept. 1, 2007, they are eligible for Kindergarten. Please bring the following documents for registration: Birth certificate Child’s social security card Current immunization record Proof of residence Photo ID of person registering child     Pre-Kindergarten/Head Start     If the child will be four years old on or before Sept. 1, 2007, they are eligible to pre-register for Pre-Kindergarten or Head Start. All families, regardless of income are encouraged to apply for Pre-Kindergarten. Bring all the documents for pre-registering for kindergarten plus the following documents: Proof of income from the past 12 months (if applicable) Proof of health insurance (if applicable) Proof of any federal assistance (if applicable)     For additional information, please contact Alkek Elementary School at (830)796-6223 or Hill Country Elementary School at (830)535-4224.

Bandera High School UIL winners