Category: Education

Athens ISD considers four-day instructional week; Employees, parents and secondary students to be surveyed

By Toni Garrard Clay/AISD Communications Coordinator

The employees of Athens ISD knew something important was in the air Monday afternoon as they gathered at the Athens High School auditorium following student dismissal for a districtwide meeting. After greeting those gathered with some light humor, Superintendent Blake Stiles jumped straight to the heart of the matter.

“A four-day instructional week,” he said. “That’s why we’re here.” Before he could continue, applause broke out.

Over the next half hour, Stiles, joined by Deputy Superintendent Dr. Janie Sims and Assistant Superintendent Jami Ivey, explained the key components of the proposed new calendar — stressing that the Monday-through-Thursday instructional week remains only a proposal at this time, and, if implemented, it would be launched as a three-year pilot program. Any school calendar must be approved by the seven elected members of the board of trustees. A survey soliciting input will be sent to employees, parents and secondary students of Athens ISD on Wednesday.

Continue reading “Athens ISD considers four-day instructional week; Employees, parents and secondary students to be surveyed”

Winningest football coach in AISD history to step down

Paul Essary

By Toni Garrard Clay/AISD Communications Coordinator

Athens ISD Athletic Director and Head Football Coach Paul Essary on Monday announced his resignation, effective Dec. 31, 2018. Essary came to Athens in July 2009 from Deer Park ISD.

“I would like to thank you and Athens ISD for a very rewarding 10 years,” said Essary in his letter of resignation to Superintendent Blake Stiles. “I am proud of the success that the athletic program and football program have accomplished during my tenure.”

Continue reading “Winningest football coach in AISD history to step down”

Masons present check to AISD for Dyslexia Program

Pictured from left to right, Michael Burton, Jeff Almrud, Kyle Tidmore, Randy Daniel, Rob Risko, Sarah Davidson, Sara Chamblee, Erica Rodriguez, Angela St. Valentine, and Sheri Leamon. (Courtesy photo)

Press release

Athens Masonic Lodge #165 presented a check for $3,000 to the Athens Independent School District on Monday, October 22, 2018. The check was presented during the Monthly School Board Meeting, and was in support of the District’s adoption of a new, scientifically validated, dyslexia teaching program developed by the Texas Scottish Rite Hospital for Children. Five AISD teachers have already begun training to implement the program.

Continue reading “Masons present check to AISD for Dyslexia Program”

Football playoffs, basketball tourney visitors to total thousands

By Toni Garrard Clay/AISD Communications Coordinator

Athens ISD’s new facilities continue to attract out-of-towners — and their spending money — to the city. Four games have already been scheduled for the renovated Bruce Field during the first two weeks of football state playoffs where the first mens baketball shoe will step in. And an ambitious new basketball tournament will debut at the high school’s brand new 2,700-seat gymnasium later this month.

“The school district presents such nice facilities to our visitors,” said Athens Chamber of Commerce President Marisa Gunstanson. “When people come to these venues, they also shop here and eat here. Those dollars help Athens grow.”

Continue reading “Football playoffs, basketball tourney visitors to total thousands”