Anthony Independent School District

Student Spotlight

Anthony High School Speech and Debate Team sees rapid success in inaugural year

By: Adriana Candelaria

(Anthony, Texas -- Mar. 4, 2024) -- In just three short months since its inception, members of the Anthony High School Speech and Debate team have racked up coveted accolades and earned a spot in the Texas Forensic Association State Tournament.

The team was formed in December with Armand Chuca, U.S. History and Economics teacher, and Joanna Marie Grier, Anthony High School senior; the team recruited at least 10 other students who were attracted by the multifaceted learning experience.

“I like to think that I have strong writing skills, but I’m also a shy person. I wanted to get over that, especially being my last year in high school,” Grier said.

Grier – who competed in the UIL Lincoln–Douglas Debate in 2023 – was eager to further cultivate her skills.

“I really like that being in speech and debate has helped me become better at communicating, speaking, researching and advocating for topics. I’ve learned a lot, and having a team makes it even better,” Grier said.

As the team’s mentor and coach, Chuca has been instrumental in shaping the students’ success. Upon being hired for his first teaching job at Anthony ISD, Chuca says he dreamt of forming his own speech and debate team.

During the Horizon High School Debate Competition in December, Chuca was in awe of the students taking first and second places in Public Forum Debate and placing in Informative Speaking.

Grier also competed at the Horizon High School Speech and Debate tournament where she received second place. With her victory at the Eastlake High School Speech and Debate tournament, Grier impressively qualified to compete in Lincoln – Douglas Debate for the upcoming Texas Forensic Association State Tournament.

“It blew my mind, because as a first-year teacher and new debate coach, I didn’t see myself taking anyone to state this year. The fact that it’s happening, and we just created this team in December, it’s pretty amazing,” Chuca said.

The team’s rapid success was also recognized by other local coaches. In late February, Chuca was presented with the District New Coach of the Year Award for the West Texas district of the National Speech and Debate Association.

“It feels unbelievable, but also amazing,” Chuca said.

Grier and Chuca will be traveling to Houston, Texas March 6 for the Texas Forensic Association State Tournament.



 

Anthony Elementary School students shine on 100th day of school

By: Adriana Candelaria

01/25/2024

[Anthony, TX] – Anthony Elementary School students are 100 days smarter as they celebrate the 100th day of the 2023-2024 school year!


To celebrate this major academic milestone, students and teachers wore yellow Jan. 24 to symbolize their bright minds. Some students also dressed as if they were 100 years old to symbolize the wisdom that comes with time, lessons and experiences.


Teachers continued their mission of nurturing students’ knowledge by conducting lessons surrounding the number 100. Some students felt inspired to celebrate in their own way.


“I brought a 100-piece puzzle for my class, but it was my students’ idea to do 100 math problems. I’m very proud of them for challenging themselves like this,” said Sylvia Rivera, Anthony Elementary School fourth grade teacher.


“Students used their critical thinking skills to master multiplication and division math problems. Exercises like these help children learn how to break down problems into manageable steps,” Rivera said.


Other class activities included using 100 beads to make necklaces and assembling paper hats that proudly displayed the triple digit day of school.



The AISD school calendar consists of 180 days – that means Anthony Wildcats are more than halfway done with the school year. Standardized testing begins in April. The last day of school will be May 31.


Anthony ISD Varsity Band soars to new heights at UIL Area Competiton

By: Adriana Candelaria

(Anthony, Texas -- Nov. 1, 2023) -- The Anthony Independent School District varsity band recently achieved a remarkable feat by securing their spot in the UIL Area Competition and making it to finals.

The journey to UIL Area competition began with their outstanding performance at the UIL Region 22 Marching Competition Oct. 14, where they received the coveted Division 1 rating. It was the first time since 2012 that the Anthony band earned a first division given all individual judges, according to Janella Saad, AISD Band Director.

The band’s Division 1 rating set the stage for what would become a remarkable season. After competing in the area competition on Oct. 21, the Wildcats were ranked by judges at an astounding 5th place out of 26 2A schools in the area competition. Since the top 10 bands make it to finals, the Wildcats secured their spot in the finals round scheduled for later that same evening.

“To our knowledge on Anthony High School history, the school has never made it to finals at area contest, so it was really exciting,” Saad said.

The band had less than two hours to prepare for the finals round. Emotions ran high as the Wildcats took the field.

“We were the first ones to perform in the finals. We were the smallest group at finals too,” Saad said.

“I told myself ‘this could be their last performance. Enjoy it’, so I just stood back and watched them. I was tearing up watching and listening to certain sections because they had made it really far,” Saad said.

The long hours of practicing before, during and after school showed on the field as the Wildcats performed. As they hit the last note of their show – the sun began to set, giving the Wildcats a breathtaking golden hour for a beautiful memory together.

“When we came off the field, there was a beautiful sunset, and we were all in tears out of pride,” Saad said.

“I don’t think any of us through we’d come this far,” said Johana Romero, Anthony Band Drum Major.

“Coming from a band that was always considered average, or even below average in previous years, it was surprising when we made it to finals. I was in tears after both performances because they were amazing,” Romero said.

Ultimately, when the final scores were tallied, the band secured the 10th position out of the 26 2A schools in the area. Only the top 5 make it to the state competition. Despite this, the band’s journey was nothing short of remarkable. Their perseverance, talent, and the support of their dedicated band director and staff have brought them far beyond their expectations.

“I’m really thankful for the staff that helped me elevate this group into a level that I don’t think I could’ve done by myself,” Saad said.

“To my students, I’m just very proud. I hope they know that if they set their minds to whatever it is that they want to do, and they work hard together, they will achieve it.”

 

Anthony High School student earns academic honors from College Board National Recognition Programs


[Anthony, TX] – Anthony High School student Angel Solis has earned academic honors from the College Board National Recognition Programs. These programs celebrate students' hard work in high school and showcase their strong academic performance. The academic honors for rural area, Black, Indigenous, and/or Latino students are an opportunity for students to share their strong academic achievements with colleges and scholarship programs that are seeking to recruit diverse talent.

 

Solis received College Board’s National Hispanic Recognition Award (NHRA).

 

“It feels good to be recognized for doing well in something,” Solis said.

 

“I’m working very hard right now to have good grades and go to college. My goal is to get a football scholarship,” Solis said.

 

The Anthony High School senior plays on the football and basketball teams. He is also in the Gifted and Talented (GT) program.

 

“We’re thrilled to celebrate our students and recognize them for the great work they’ve been doing. We’re proud of their strong academic performance in the classroom and on College Board assessments,” said Sandra Espinoza, Anthony High School principal. “There’s so much that makes our students unique, and receiving this honor reinforces this as an asset for their future.”

 

The criteria for eligible students include:

  • GPA of 3.5 or higher.
  • PSAT/NMSQT or PSAT 10 assessment scores that are within the top 10% of assessment takers in each state for each award program or earned a score of 3 or higher on 2 or more AP Exams in 9th and 10th grade.
  • Attend school in a rural area or small town, or identify as African American/Black, Hispanic American/Latino, or Indigenous/Native.

 

Eligible students are invited to apply on BigFuture during their sophomore or junior year and are awarded at the start of the next school year in time to share their achievements in high school as they plan for the future. At the same time, colleges and organizations using College Board’s Student Search Service can connect directly with awardees during the recruitment process.


Anthony High School's Class of 2023 celebrates graduation

(ANTHONY, TX -- June 2, 2023) --  Anthony High School’s Class of 2023 celebrated their graduation June 1 at the UTEP Magoffin Auditorium.

Fifty-one students walked across the stage to receive their high school diploma. AHS’s Class of 2023 collectively earned a total of $2,572,950 of scholarship money over the span of four years! The Anthony ISD Scholarship recipients are:


  • Jim O'Toole Scholarship: Jasmine Hernandez
  • Safety Scholarship: Johana Yanez Aguilar
  • Tommy Sanchez Scholarship: Raymond Hernandez


The event was filled with excitement and emotion as students reflected on their years as Anthony Wildcats and shared their hopes for the future. Congratulations, Class of 2023!

Anthony High School seniors attend YWCA Women's Luncheon

By: Adriana Candelaria

(Anthony, Texas -- April 28, 2023) – The Anthony Independent School District sent all of its Anthony High School senior female students to the 28th Annual YWCA Women's Luncheon at the El Paso Convention Center Thursday morning.


Students got a fresh outlook on the power of determination, tenacity and self-worth after listening to impactful stories from presenters at the event.


It was the first time that most of the students attended a formal luncheon. Stephanie Ramirez, an Anthony High School senior, says the event was an eye-opening experience.


“I think it’s going to show me how to be more open-minded, to continue being who I am, and not be afraid to speak up and be powerful,” Ramirez said.


The luncheon featured Academy and Golden Globe award-winning actress Geena Davis as they keynote speaker. Davis delivered a speech about the importance of having more lead female characters in movies and shows.


“It was a very empowering moment. We were shown that it’s important for us to speak up, be who we are, and not hide anything about ourselves,” Ramirez said.  


Anthony High School Principal Sandra Espinoza and teacher Mary Westbrook organized the event and gathered donations to make the trip possible.


Students were also prepared with dining etiquette tips for the occasion.


“I think it’s very important for girls to know how valuable they are, that if they love and respect themselves, it’s going to show, it’s going to glow, and it’s going to make them stronger women,” Espinoza said.


“It’s very important that all the students have this opportunity. Hopefully soon we can find something for our young men as well,” Espinoza said.


The Anthony High School senior class includes 24 female students. One junior student and one sophomore student also attended the event.


The experience was made possible thanks to the generous donations of AISD Superintendent Dr. Oscar Troncoso, Anthony High School, Jack Chapman with the help of the Westbrook family and Espinoza Associates DBA Willie’s Body Shop.

Anthony High School football player plays in O-D All-American Bowl

(ANTHONY, TX -- Jan. 24, 2023) --  Anthony High School senior Raymond Hernandez joined a group of outstanding high school football players from around the country for the Offense-Defense (O-D) All-American Bowl in Arlington, Texas in late December.


According to the O-D website, 80 top high school athletes from across the country are invited to All-American Bowl Games events. The invitation is offered to student athletes who are active in college recruiting efforts and show a high sportsmanship standard.


“I feel very proud of myself. It’s good to know that coming from a school so small, you’re getting Anthony some recognition,” Hernandez said.


Hernandez donned the Anthony Wildcats helmet on the field in the AT&T Stadium as a running back for the red O-D All-American Bowl team. He and his family spent a few days in the Dallas area while Hernandez practiced for the big game.


“The knowledge these coaches had for the game was astounding. I had a one-on-one with former NFL players that are now coaches at the All-American Bowl,” Hernandez said. “It was an incredible experience that I never had before.”


Hernandez, originally from New Mexico, made the most out of the distinctive Texas high school football experience during his time in Anthony. He joined the AHS football team as a freshman and worked his way up as an athlete on the school’s team.


“I’ve put in a lot of work. I wake up at six in the morning willing to work out and train my mind through high expectations,” Hernandez said. “It’s all in your head, because you don’t really know how much talent you have until you start doing what you set your mind to.”


Not only has Hernandez’s love for the game granted him once-in-a-lifetime memories, but the high school senior has also garnered attention from sources that could help pay for his college education. Hernandez said Tiffin University expressed interest in Hernandez joining the Dragons to play flag football.


“I started playing football for the fun of it, but this is where it has gotten me. Anything is possible if you just work for it,” Hernandez said. 


Hernandez is currently focusing on qualifying for scholarships that allow him to continue playing football. He is anticipating graduating with the class of 2023 in June.

Anthony ISD student finds vocation through CCTE classes 

By: Adriana Candelaria

(Anthony, Texas -- Dec. 13, 2022) – Anthony High School students can explore the possibilities of an enriching and fulfilling career by taking advantage of technical school electives while they still earn a high school diploma.

Thanks to a partnership between Anthony Independent School District and El Paso Independent School District, AISD students can take two elective courses at EPISD’s Center for Career and Technology Education (CCTE).

CCTE offers a variety of courses, which include hospitality, manufacturing, law, public service and many more.

Eddie Cardenas, AHS senior, had an interest in welding since he was a sophomore. He started welding simple things at home with a machine his father had. At the end of his sophomore year, he elected for welding and automotive courses at EPISD's CCTE.

“What caught my attention about welding is that I’m a fire bender in a way, and I just like making stuff,” Cardenas said.

“You can get a piece of sheet metal and make it into anything you want. You get to shape your own future,” Cardenas said.

After more than a year in CCTE classes, Cardenas said he now understands how to weld panels for cars and make parts for semitrailers. He has also been accepted for an internship at Sun City Welding Academy, a welding school that focuses on industrial pipe welding for the oil and gas, commercial, and residential industries.

“Learning about a trade caught my eye, because it’s really hands-on,” Cardenas said.

“You just figure it out as you go, and I like to challenge myself. That’s why I also enjoyed it,” Cardenas said.

CCTE courses are available to high school juniors and seniors who complete the required credits by the end of their sophomore year. AHS counselor, Alicia O’Quinn, said enrolling in CCTE classes is a two-year commitment that can pay off.

“The benefit of taking a course like this is that students get their certification, and they do not have to pay for it out of their own pocket,” O’Quinn said.

“Another benefit is they can go straight into the workforce. If they want to be a welder, or if they want to do cosmetology, they can go straight in with their certification and earn money while they pay for college if that is what they choose to do,” O’Quinn said.

Most of the equipment or materials needed for CCTE classes are provided to the students along with transportation. A bus takes students from AHS to EPISD’s CCTE campus for their courses and returns them to AHS in the afternoon.

“Just because Anthony is a small town shouldn’t limit our opportunities. We’re right next to El Paso and Las Cruces. There’s everything available; we just need to go out and find it,” Cardenas said.

“We need to have the Wildcat mentality where you need to find that pride in yourself and ignite it. It’s not going to ignite for you; you need to get yourself started,” Cardenas said.

EPISD CCTE partners with small school districts in the county to offer the same vocational or trade school opportunities to students in the region. Currently about 12 AISD students are enrolled in CCTE, but more seating is available for students who want to apply.

Two Anthony High School students awarded with academic honors from College Board National Recognition Programs
(ANTHONY, TX -- Sept. 8, 2022) -- Two Anthony High School students have earned academic honors from the College Board National Recognition Programs. 

Cruz Montoya, 12th grade, and Johanna Romero, 11th grade, earned the National Hispanic Recognition Award (NHRA) after achieving an excellent score on the Preliminary SAT/National Merit Scholarship Qualifying Test (PSAT/NMSQT). The recognition helps students connect to colleges and stand out during the admissions process. 

“I was very excited when I saw the results since I took my time to study for it,” Montoya said.

Montoya and Romero participate in an array of extracurricular activities that include band and robotics club. Montoya is considering an engineering degree while Romero is deciding on a career between music or engineering. 

“I was surprised when I saw my score. The first time I took the PSAT I was nervous, but now this recognition will help me stand out on college applications,” Romero said.

The recognition helps students from rural areas or small towns stand out during the college admissions process. Colleges and scholarship programs identify students awarded National African American, Hispanic, Indigenous and/or Rural/Small Town Recognition through College Board.

“We’re thrilled that our students have earned this recognition. We are very proud of them for their achievements in their classrooms and on College Board assessments,” said Alicia O’Quinn, AHS counselor.  

The College Board develops and administers standardized tests and curricula used by K–12 and post-secondary education institutions to promote college-readiness and as part of the college admissions process. 

PHOTO GALLERY: Anthony ISD students return to school for 22-23 school year

By: Adriana Candelaria

(ANTHONY, TX -- Aug. 11, 2022) -- Approximately 700 students walked the hallways of Anthony ISD on their first day of class Aug. 1. The 2022-2023 school year kicked off with students picking up their school schedules, meeting friends and new teachers. Take a look at the photo gallery to view some of the first day of school sights!

PHOTO GALLERY: AHS seniors walk AES students to kinder graduation

By: Adriana Candelaria

(ANTHONY, TX -- May 18, 2022) -- Anthony Elementary School students were guided by graduating Anthony High School seniors to their kinder graduation May 18. See our AISD photo gallery of the event.

Student photographer contribution: Valeria Martinez

PHOTO GALLERY: Farewell pep rally held for AHS seniors

By: Adriana Candelaria

(ANTHONY, TX -- May 17, 2022) -- Anthony High School held a farewell pep rally for high school seniors Friday to celebrate their accomplishment in finishing their high school years. 


Students arrived to a beach theme with luaus, beach balls, balloons and floaties. The event was organized the AHS Student Council.


Congratulations to the AHS seniors! We wish you the best of luck on your future endeavors!


Photos courtesy:  Jasmine Hernandez

Chalk it Up event helps students de-stress after STAAR testing

By: Adriana Candelaria

(Anthony, TX – May 13, 2022) – The sidewalks of Anthony ISD have a splash of color to end the school year on a bright note with the district's first Chalk it Up event.


The event invited students to destress after more than a week of STAAR testing. Anthony Elementary School and Anthony Middle School students were provided with chalk and encouraged to write positive messages and to express themselves.


Students took to the sidewalks to draw their favorite cartoon characters and encouraging messages.


Take a look at some of their artwork in our photo gallery!

Anthony Elementary School student selected to play at AT&T Stadium

By: Adriana Candelaria

(ANTHONY, TX -- May 5, 2022) -- Anthony Elementary School fifth grade student Sebastian Corral Jr. will represent Southern New Mexico and West Texas at the National Dream All-American Bowl at the AT&T Stadium in Arlington, Texas this June.


Sebastian was picked out of hundreds of candidates nationwide. His impressive accomplishment is a dream come true for the 11-year-old who attended his first Dallas Cowboys game just a few years ago.


 “It was my first [Cowboys] game and his first game,” Sebastian Corral Sr. said.


“He was excited, and he told me ‘Dad, one day I’m going to play here’”, Corral Sr. said.


That statement seemed like a longshot at the time since Corral Sr. said his son did not play football yet.


The family says they were often stopped out in public by coaches who saw Corral Jr. and believed his body build was ideal for football. When he was about nine years old, Corral Jr.’s parents enrolled him in tackle football. He had previously played flag football.


“What I like about football is the defense, when I [reach] the quarterback,” Corral Jr. said.


After playing for a series of teams, Corral Jr’s mom submitted his best highlights to the National Dream All American Team committee. When Corral Jr. was accepted to the team, he brought immense pride to his family.


“I felt great [to be selected] because I always wanted to play at the AT&T stadium,” Corral Jr. said.


Despite developing a passion for a rough sport, his parents describe him as a sensitive young man who is very caring of others. He has prioritized his grades to ensure he is eligible to play the sport, and his next dream is to earn a college scholarship through football.


“Anthony Elementary School has been tremendous because the small group of kids in the classrooms allows them to pay more attention to every kid,” Corral Sr. said.


“His grades have improved tremendously because of football,” Corral Sr. said.


The Dream All-American Bowl is sponsored by Recruit Nation and Dream Scouting Network. The event draws a national audience thanks to a livestream by Recruit Nation Live TV. Players will receive premium uniforms and gear and have the chance to learn from high-level coaches.


Corral Jr. will play Offensive Lineman as #76. The game is slated to occur June 12 at 10 a.m. CST. Watch Recruit Nation Live TV by clicking on this link.


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    Anthony High School sophomore Kayleen Nuñez learns how to suture in workshops provided by West Texas Area Health Education Center (AHEC) and Texas Tech University Health Sciences Center (TTUHSC) El Paso.

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Anthony ISD students receive exposure to careers in medical field
(ANTHONY, TX -- March 30, 2022) -- When Anthony High School sophomore Kayleen Nuñez weaved a needle through a suturing artificial skin pad, she pierced into a new level of experience for her dream career. 

“My mom inspired me to pursue a career in nursing,” Nuñez said.

“I saw how passionate she was about it, and it made me want to become a nurse so I can help others,” Nuñez said.

In partnership with West Texas Area Health Education Center (AHEC), professionals from Texas Tech University Health Sciences Center (TTUHSC) El Paso are visiting Anthony ISD to teach middle and high school students about an array of careers in the medical field. 

Students like Nuñez are receiving hands-on workshops led by TTUHSC that can help broaden students’ perspectives of what working in the medical field is like.

“Suturing was a challenge, especially when you have to get the needle through the skin and tie it. It was fun but difficult,” Nuñez said.

By promoting health careers to young people, AHEC says it aims to improve the health of communities and to develop the health care provider work force.

Students in AVID, the district’s college and career readiness program, are participating in the courses. The program was introduced to students in early March and will conclude in late April.

By the end of the program, AISD students will have experience in suturing, how to use a stethoscope and an understanding in geriatrics. 


Anthony ISD robotics teams head to State Competition

(Anthony, TX – March. 28, 2022) – Four groups from the Anthony Independent School District’s robotics team are advancing to the Texas Computer Education Association (TCEA) state finals.


Students spent several months researching, designing and building robots that could help solve real-world issues such as ocean pollution, improving the lives of people with limited mobility and minimizing hazards to the industrial workforce.


“Technology and innovation is a great way to change things in the world that you want to improve,” said Cruz Montoya, Anthony High School junior.


Click on the following links to learn more about the teams heading to state:


AISD students build robot to assist with mobility limitations


AISD students build ocean-cleaning robot


AISD student-built robot helps unroot trees


The fourth team to advance to the state competition participates in an arena competition. Instead of building a robot, the team programmed a robot to complete objectives. In this case, their robot completes widgets.



The teams will be competing in the TCEA State Finals in Hutto, Texas, April 23.

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Anthony High School’s theater students advance to UIL’s Bi-District competition
(ANTHONY, TX -- March 11, 2022) -- Anthony High School’s One Act Play (OAP) is advancing to the University Interscholastic League’s Bi-District OAP competition after impressing the judges at the 4-AAA District competition Feb. 24. 

The school’s cast and crew performed “Flowers for Algernon”, a science fiction short story about a developmentally disabled man who undergoes a surgical procedure that dramatically increases his mental capabilities.

LeeAnn Holguin, AHS senior, said she was excited when she heard Anthony’s performance was highly scored by the judges.

“I’ve been in OAP all four years in high school, but this is actually the first time that I haven’t felt as stressed,” Holguin said.
“OAP is like a little family. We will welcome you with open arms during practice and competitions,” Holguin said.

A new member to the OAP family this year was English Teacher and Theater Director Kyle Fenner. This is Fenner’s first time leading a theater crew, but he says the experience was enjoyable thanks to the students guiding him through the process.

“We had a blast competing in OAP. I would encourage other students to join us. Even if they don’t want to act, there’s other roles they can participate in. There’s a place for everyone here,” Fenner said.

Not only did the team advance to the bi-district competition, but students also took home the following individual recognitions:
  • All Star Cast – Chanel Sepulveda
  • Best Performer – Jose Levario
  • Best Tech Crew – Layla Diaz and Alexander Limon
  • Best Stage Manager - LeeAnn Holguin
  • Honorable Mention – Cruz Montoya
  • Honorable Mention – Chanel Sepulveda 

Anthony’s OAP team was also recognized as Best Overall Crew.

Students are spending the following weeks tuning up their performance for the bi-district competition, which will take place March 22 in Canutillo. The cast and crew will perform “Flowers for Algernon” once again for the judges.


Anthony ISD cheerleaders win 1st place in Chihuahuas Cheer & Dance Classic

(Anthony, TX – Feb. 28, 2022) – Hours of hard work are paying off Anthony High School cheerleaders who won first place in the Junior Varsity & Freshman Build category in the Chihuahuas Cheer and Dance Classic held Saturday, Feb. 26.


It was the first year since the start of COVID-19 that the team returned to the competition, but for more than half of the squad, it was their first time experiencing an event like this.


“Most of the girls competing this year have no prior cheerleading experience; it’s their first year. They really showed out and gave it their all, and you could see that on the mat. I’m very proud of them,” said Soraya Yanar, AHS JV and varsity coach.


The squad performed a competitive cheerleading routine that began with a hip-hop and R&B dance and ended with a one-minute-long cheer. Their performance also included basic stunts and a basket toss.


“It was really nerve-racking for me and my teammates since it was our first time competing, but we’re really excited about the outcome,” said Adriana Ortega, AHS sophomore.


AISD competes in Class 3A, Division 2. The cheerleading team consists of nine girls and four boys in various grade levels.  The squad practiced at least 10 hours each week in the mornings and after school to prepare for the competition.


About Chihuahuas Cheer & Dance Classic

The Chihuahuas Cheer & Dance Classic is an annual competition that includes different categories in dance and cheer groups and solos. Participants’ ages range from youth to all-star seniors. Awards are given to each category/division.



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AVID program helps AISD students prepare for college
(Anthony, TX – Jan. 7, 2022) – Since 2019, the Anthony Independent School District has helped students prepare for college and their future careers with the Advancement Via Individual Determination (AVID) program.

AVID is a nationwide curriculum that offers a variety of classroom activities to help students learn organization, academic and communication skills. 

Nationwide, many students have a desire to attend college and are capable of graduating with a higher education. However, sometimes students who are the first in their families to attend college do not have the tools to easily transition into college. This is where AVID steps in and helps students learn how to take effective notes to study and to advocate for themselves.

The AISD program is led by AVID and STEM teacher, Rosalinda Gaucin, who was an AVID student herself!

“We want our students to think they can go to college and be successful,” Gaucin said.

AISD is implementing AVID strategies in grades K-12.

At the elementary school level, students are encouraged to think about their college and career plans. They also learn how to take structured notes, communicate effectively and answer high-level questions.

Students at the AVID secondary level receive additional academic, social and emotional support to help them succeed in rigorous courses. 

“If the students are struggling academically, they just need to say ‘I’m struggling on this’, and we will help them as a class. Eventually the students become so close that nothing can break them apart,” Gaucin said.

For Gabriela Lerma, Anthony Middle School 8th grader, AVID has changed her outlook on college.

“Before Avid, I didn’t really see myself as on the pathway to college. Besides sports, I didn’t really think about anything else,” Lerma said. 

“It helped me open my eyes to the many career choices that have my interest, and it’s helped me think I can do this,” Lerma said.

The AVID experience goes beyond the classroom. Students recently toured the University of Texas at El Paso’s campus and got acquainted with college life. 

“I really liked the college lifestyle. It was nice to see students going to work, going to classes and working towards what they want to become,” said Destiny Torres Rodriguez, 8th grade Anthony Middle School student.

AVID is offered at all three AISD campuses and has seen growth since it was established in the district. Despite the COVID-19 pandemic creating a challenging school year in 2020, Gaucin says more students elected AVID courses after a year of remote learning in the 2020-2021 school year. 
Gaucin estimates that approximately 250 to 300 students have been helped by AVID at Anthony ISD since the program started.

Anthony ISD students compete in UIL A+ Academics District Competition

(Anthony, TX – Dec. 7, 2021) – Hard work is paying off for Anthony Independent School District students who placed in at least one category in the University Interscholastic League’s A+ Academics District Competition.


The competition took place in Kermit, Texas during the first week of December.


A total of 21 Anthony Elementary School students and 24 Anthony Middle School students participated in the competition. More than half of the students placed in at least one category!


Wildcats also competed in several new categories this year, including Music Memory for the elementary school students.


Below is a list of the students who placed in the different competitions:



4th Grade

Spelling

Alyanah Gonzalez -- 6th place


Spanish Oral Reading

Regina Gates -- 1st place


5th Grade

Listening Skills *first year competing*

Valerie Guillermo -- 4th place

Jewlexis Zamora -- 6th place


Number Sense

Melody Flores -- 5th place


Oral Reading

Ania Castillo 4th place


Spelling

Vianka Martinez -- 2nd place

Adrian Mosslamizdeh -- 3rd place


Spanish Oral Reading

Melody Flores -- 5th place

Roberto Weatherly -- 6th place


6th grade

Mathematics *first year competing*

Fransisco Hernandez -- 4th place

Maximiliano Yanez -- 5th place

 

Number Sense

Valeria Galindo-Martinez -- 1st place


7th grade

Mathematics *first year competing*

Anthony Romero -- 3rd place

Alan Hernandez -- 4th place


Music Memory

Dylan Montoya -- 3rd place

Andrea Salazar-Renteria -- 5th place


Number Sense

Alan Hernandez -- 6th place

 

Science

Alan Hernandez -- 6th place


8th grade

Dictionary Skills

Sophia Romero -- 5th place

Catherine Carrasco -- 6th place

 

Maps, Graphs and Charts

Sophia Romero -- 1st place

Joseline Rosales Lopez -- 3rd place

Catherine Carrasco -- 4th place

 

Mathematics *first year competing*

Ian Figueroa -- 2nd place

Aaron Acuna -- 3rd place

Destiny Torres Rodriguez -- 6th place

 

Music Memory

Cesar Arreola -- 1st place

Jacqueline Levario -- 4th place

 

Number Sense

Ian Figueroa -- 5th place


Spelling

Jacqueline Levario -- 2nd place


Spanish Oral Reading

Destiny Torres Rodriguez -- 2nd grade

Yarely Alvarez -- 4th place

 

Science

Aaron Acuna -- 2nd place

Ian Figueroa -- 2nd place

Jacqueline Levario -- 5th place


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Anthony High School students receive OSHA certification
(Anthony, TX – Dec. 7, 2021) – The Anthony Independent School District now has a team of students that are professionally trained students to identify the safety conditions of facilities.

Ten students from Anthony High School enrolled in the school’s Occupational Safety and Health Administration’s (OSHA) certification classes offered during the October intersession. The 30-hour training taught students how to identify potential hazards in a facility and how to improve safety conditions.

The certification serves as an extra tool that can help students obtain a job after graduation. For Nathaniel Cuellar, AHS sophomore, the idea of getting a job thanks to his  OSHA certification was the main reason why he enrolled in the course. 

“It was a really fun experience, and I would encourage other students to take advantage of it. It would be amazing if other students could also have the same experience,” Cuellar said. 

During the certification process, students inspected district facilities for any safety hazards. The potential hazards, such as lowering an exit sign to make it more visible in case of a fire, were immediately fixed by the district’s custodial team.

“We took pictures of the hazards and then composed that into a presentation. On the last day of the training, we presented it to the school principals and custodians so they could understand what safety hazards there are and the consequences,” Cuellar said.

It is the second time that Anthony High School provides students with the opportunity to get their OSHA certification. The first OSHA program for AHS students took place during summer school earlier in the year. AHS Principal Oralia Moseley says the benefits of having an OSHA certification go beyond a classroom.

“The OSHA class not only helps students with a future job, but it seems to help them in their lives right now. A lot of these students say they were checking for safety hazards in their homes and telling their parents about them. It helps the families in the community as well,” Moseley said. 

The next OSHA certification classes are scheduled for the first week of Spring Break 2022 from March 7 – 11. Students may register in the front office of Anthony High School.


Anthony High School celebrates homecoming week

(Anthony, TX – Oct. 25, 2021) – Homecoming festivities returned to the Anthony Independent School District for the first time since COVID-19 restrictions paused school activities in 2020.


Students celebrated homecoming spirit week by turning back time with outfits inspired by the 80’s and by dressing as matching twins or in neon and school-spirit colors.


Spectators lined up along Wildcat Drive the evening of Oct. 21 to watch the homecoming parade make its way from Doniphan Drive. The colorful floats dazzled down the route as parade volunteers tossed candy to the children watching the parade.


The traditional homecoming pep rally also came to life again Oct. 22 with a friendly game of volleyball. Students from different grade levels played against each other while teachers also served up some competition by challenging the students to a volleyball match!


Wildcats took the football game win against Compass Academy Charter School, 63-6. The homecoming court and school’s honored ex were recognized during halftime after a performance by the Anthony Varsity Band/Guard.


Anthony High School’s homecoming dance was held Oct. 23. Click the images next to this article to see some of the memorable moments during homecoming week!

AISD students and employees raise cancer awareness
(Anthony, TX – Oct. 19, 2021) -- Anthony Independent School District students and employees raised awareness on types of cancers by wearing different colors the second week of October. Wildcats raised awareness about the following cancers:
  • Breast cancer
    • Breast cancer is the most common cancer in American women, except for skin cancers. It is estimated that in 2021, approximately 30% of all new women cancer diagnoses will be breast cancer
    • There are over 3.8 million breast cancer survivors in the United States.
    • On average, every 2 minutes a woman is diagnosed with breast cancer in the United States.
  • Leukemia
    • Leukemia is the most common cancer in children and teens younger than 20, accounting for almost one out of three cancers.
    • Acute leukemias are the rapidly progressing diseases, and chronic leukemias usually progress more slowly.
    • Leukemia can happen at any age, but is most common in people over 60.
  • Pancreatic cancer
    • About 60,430 people (31,950 men and 28,480 women) will be diagnosed with pancreatic cancer.
    • About 48,220 people (25,270 men and 22,950 women) will die of pancreatic cancer.
    • Pancreatic cancer accounts for about 3% of all cancers in the US and about 7% of all cancer deaths.
    • It is slightly more common in men than in women.
  • Melanoma cancer
    • The American Cancer Society’s estimates for melanoma in the United States for 2021 are:
      • About 106,110 new melanomas will be diagnosed (about 62,260 in men and 43,850 in women).
      • About 7,180 people are expected to die of melanoma (about 4,600 men and 2,580 women).
      • The rates of melanoma have been rising rapidly over the past few decades, but this has varied by age.
  • Prostate cancer
    • About 1 man in 8 will be diagnosed with prostate cancer during his lifetime.
    • Prostate cancer is more likely to develop in older men and in non-Hispanic Black men. About 6 cases in 10 are diagnosed in men who are 65 or older, and it is rare in men under 40. The average age of men at diagnosis is about 66.
The information above was provided by American Cancer Society. Visit www.cancer.org to learn more. Click on the image gallery to enlarge the photos!

Anthony High School students soar with drone and technology classes

(Anthony, TX – Oct. 12, 2021) Anthony High School students took their skills to new heights with drone and technology enrichment classes offered during intersession.


Students built drones and flew them through obstacle courses that students also constructed.


“The obstacle courses can change the trajectory of how the drones are flown, so as the kids get more experience flying them, they can have different obstacles. We can modify them in any way or direction,” said Abraham Martinez, I.T. Networking Technologies instructor.


Students also brought their imagination to life with coding and 3D printing. Using web app, Tinkercad, students arranged shapes and dimensions to make items such as phone stands, costume props or anything their creativity desired.


Roy East, an Anthony High School student and cosplay enthusiast, built a prop for his samurai costume. East says the design took him a couple of weeks to complete.


“It might seem simple at first, but if you really look at a lot of reference material, you’ll understand that there’s not a lot of images of the prop,” East said.


“I designed it, because I wanted to show more of the Japanese culture,” East said.


While the technology enrichment classes were a gateway for students to explore their talents and interests, Martinez hopes the classes will expose students to career options as professional drone pilots or engineers. 

Students improve English skills with intersession enrichment classes 
(Anthony, TX – Sept. 29, 2021) Anthony Middle School English Learners voluntarily attended three days of enrichment classes during intersession to improve their communication skills.

Teachers put a fun spin on lessons by having students solve a murder mystery and translate recipes from Spanish to English. 

“These classes are a communication of English and Spanish. We let them communicate in their comfortable and native language. Then we help them translate and work on their English communication skills within each other,” said Brenda Lopez, English Language Arts and Reading teacher.

In the process of writing their home recipes, students learned how measurements and international brands are written in the English language.

“A lot of the students’ cultures came out. Today we made elote en vaso (corn in a cup), and they really got into it because it’s something they can really connect to and enjoy,” Lopez said.

Middle School Student Amber Ornelas translated a dessert recipe that included Mexican cookie brand, Galletas Maria. Ornelas said the enrichment classes made her culture feel welcomed.

“It feels good because the classes make you feel like your culture does matter, and the fact that we’re able to do activities that involve our culture makes me feel happy,” Ornelas said. 

After attending enrichment classes, Ornelas said she made new goals to speak more English and to ask for help when she needed it. Approximately 10 students attended the enrichment classes. 

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AMS students share encouraging messages during National Suicide Prevention Month

(Anthony, TX – Sept. 21, 2021) Vibrant butterflies with uplifting messages decorate Anthony Middle School during National Suicide Prevention Month. The Wildcats Wall of Love & Hope was created by students who colored in prints of butterflies and wrote motivational messages such as “don’t be so hard on yourself, be patient” and “it gets better.”

September is nationally recognized as a month to raise awareness on suicide prevention and to promote mental health. Anthony Middle School Counselor Cynthia Esparza created Wildcats Virtual Calming Space, an online tab, for students and teachers to find social and emotional resources.

Esparza also gave a presentation to students about available resources if students need to speak to someone. Students colored a large butterfly poster and presented it to Anthony Middle School Principal Jaime De La Torre to commemorate teamwork and being supportive of one another during National Suicide Prevention Month.

AISD students commemorate 9/11 with Patriot Day
(Anthony, TX – Sept. 11, 2021) Anthony Elementary School students learned about kindness and
resiliency during the 20th anniversary of the 9/11 attacks.

The Anthony Varsity Band joined students on the elementary school’s lawn to play the national anthem
and patriotic songs. Dressed in red, white and blue, students listened to poems about the meaning of
Patriot Day.

Patriot Day is dedicated thanking first responders who selflessly ran towards danger to help others. Students learned that a patriot can be a member of the military, firefights and police officers who serve their country by protecting its wellbeing.

The West Valley Fire Department was present at the ceremony and brought their fire trucks for students
to tour after the ceremony.

AES Principal Dr. Christine Althoff showed students the importance of thanking first responders and military members. Students wrapped up the ceremony by saying something nice to each other. Watch the video on the left to hear a poem read by students on Patriot Day.

Anthony Elementary School celebrates Grandparents Day

(Anthony, TX – Sept. 12, 2021) Anthony Elementary School students celebrated Grandparents Day the second week of September by coloring and chanting a special message for grandma and grandpa. Watch the videos below to see the impact that grandparents have on these Wildcats!

Anthony Middle School starts lunchtime library club
(ANTHONY INDEPENDENT SCHOOL DISTRICT -- Aug. 31, 2021) -- Anthony Middle School students are taking their imaginations to a place of adventure, mystery, and suspense with the school’s new lunchtime library club.

“During my lunchbreak, I wasn’t doing much. I would go outside and chat. I do almost the same thing in the library, but here, you get to read and have fun with your friends,” Arciniega said.

Evelyn Aguilar, Anthony Middle School library assistant, waits for the students daily with a queued audiobook and printed copies of a story selected by the library club.

“We’ll vote on a new book and, every Monday and Wednesday, we’ll read one- or two-chapters during lunch,” Arciniega said.

The library club is currently reading ‘Charlie Hernández & the League of Shadows’, a book about fantasy inspired by Hispanic folklore, legends, and myths from the Iberian Peninsula and Central and South America. 

The book opens a portal that exercises students’ imaginations and allows them to walk in the shoes of different characters.

“I like all kinds of books, especially books with a meaning,” said Destiny Torres-Rodriguez, Anthony Middle School 8th grader.

“For example, a life story about someone. At the end, the book tells you what to appreciate about life and what things to not focus on so much,” said Torres-Rodriguez.

The Anthony Middle School library holds nearly 12,000 books with a vast array of storylines. The quiet atmosphere offers a soothing environment for students to redirect their thoughts. 

“I think reading can help them go to a different place. They go on adventures and leave any problems behind,” Aguilar said.

Reading is also bridging language differences and creating real-life connections between the students.  
“I have a young lady who doesn’t speak a word of English, but she wants to be in the book club. I translate everything for her so she can follow along,” Aguilar said.

“I think reading brings student a lot closer. One of my students used to sit by herself, but the other students invited her to join them. I just want to see them become a little family,” Aguilar said.

The library club began with nearly 35 students and continues to accept participants. Students who are interested in reading during their lunchbreak can visit Miss Aguilar at the Anthony Middle School library. 
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Best friends graduate top of their class, head different directions for college
Since elementary school, Dasseny Arreola and Marissa Lerma have been inseparable. Even during their last moments as high school seniors, the girls sat next to each other at graduation. Wearing white caps and gowns, the girls celebrated being Class of 2021’s valedictorian and salutatorian. 

“I never thought it was a competition between us. I always saw it as we’re doing good. We’re doing our best. We work as hard as we can,” Lerma said.

“Instead of being one and two, I always saw it as being together, right next to each other,” Arreola said.

The girls met when they were five years old. Their families live one house apart. 
Lerma and Arreola consider their friendship a strong support system to help them accomplish their academic goals, but being in the top 10 was a goal inspired by their families.

“My mom got pregnant when she was 16 and she gave birth to me when she was 17. Despite that, she beat teenage pregnancy statistics and has her master’s degree now. My dad joined the ARMY to support us and was deployed twice, doing two tours in Iraq. He came back and got his bachelor’s degree. He’s also two credits away from his master’s degree,” Arreola said.

“When they were my age, they were going through completely different things, but they still got their college educations which was very inspiring to me,” Arreola said. 

Lerma was inspired by watching her older brother’s graduation. She recalls asking her parents why some students were dressed in white and learning the reason was because they worked extra hard to have outstanding grades.

“I remember telling myself that graduating in the top 10 is what I wanted to do. I didn’t care what number it was as long as I was in white,” Lerma said.

As their post high school graduation summer comes to an end, the girls are cherishing their last months living in the same community.

Arreola plans to attend Rice University in Houston, Texas while Lerma is scheduled to attend New Mexico State University in Las Cruces, New Mexico.

“I hope this friendship can stay well into our adulthood. I know most of your friends are made when you’re in college, but Marissa is the exception,” Arreola said. 

“I envision her next to me at my wedding if I ever get married,” Lerma said. 

For Arreola, leaving her hometown makes the college transition extra emotional.

“I love Anthony. This school is my everything. The band is my everything. It will definitely be a journey,” Arreola said.

Arreola plans to major in English with a pre-law track. Lerma will major in Biology. Both Wildcats plan to communicate often and see each other during their breaks. From the entire Wildcat family, we wish both girls and the rest of the Class of 2021 good luck in their future endeavors!
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AISD student finishes high school diploma despite COVID-19 challenges


(ANTHONY INDEPENDENT SCHOOL DISTRICT -- July 12, 2021) -- At the age of eight, Edgar Dominguez says he began helping his dad's construction business. The scorching heat and intense labor did not discourage him from working in construction as a teenager. When his family of 11 contracted COVID-19 in 2020, he juggled multiple jobs even though he was a high school senior already falling behind in school.


“No one in my family was working. I was the only one who didn’t have COVID-19, so I started working mechanic jobs,” Dominguez said.


“I stopped attending school. My mom told me we were receiving phone calls because the school wanted me to go back, but I didn’t have time. I worked day and night," Dominguez said.


Dominguez thought school was easy, but he was failing his classes since he was not doing the work. He had promised his mom he would obtain his high school diploma even though he did not believe it was crucial for his future since he already had a job.


Prior to the pandemic, he contemplated expanding his father's business. As his family battled the virus, he saw no choice other than become the family's breadwinner. When his cousin wanted to join the U.S. Navy, Dominguez reevaluated obtaining his high school diploma.


“I saw that I needed to have the diploma to have a lot more opportunities since I wanted to join the Navy with my cousin and be an underwater welder,” Dominguez said.


“I ended up telling the district about the situation. They helped me out so much because they were willing to work with me."


AISD Human Resources Director and former Anthony High School Principal Fernando Garnica was behind the house calls.


"On many occasions, I went to their house and met with the parents to let them know how important it was for Edgar to finish school," Garnica said.


It took multiple calls, home visits, parent intervention and a wakeup call about career opportunities before Dominguez called the district to finish his credits. Garnica worked with high school counselor Rebecca Saldivar to divide the schoolwork for Dominguez.


“We have a credit recovery program, which allows the students to complete the work at their own pace. We give them two or three courses at a time so it’s not as overwhelming," Garnica said.


“We felt it was important to work with Edgar. Financially, the family was in a tough situation. We knew that Edgar had to work to help them and we commend the sense of responsibility that he has towards his family," Garnica said.


Dominguez received his high school diploma July 9 in a small ceremony held at Anthony High School. His mother, Sandra Flores, said she felt proud to watch her son fulfill his promise to her and set an example for his younger siblings. Dominguez is now in the process of joining the Navy.


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