2 weeks Ago By Robin Y. Richardson
Marshall ISD made some special acknowledgments during its school board meeting Monday, honoring two Extra Mile employees and announcing Teacher of the Year recipients for each respective campus. The board also recognized Marshall Junior High School’s AVID program, led by Mary Kiel, for being an “Emerging Schoolwide” recipient for the 2024-25 school year. Extra Mile Employees The first to be recognized at Monday’s board meeting were Extra Mile employees, Bianca Williams of DAEP, and Bethany Venable of Marshall Early Graduation School (MEGS) Announcing the Extra Mile employees, Superintendent Richele Langley expressed appreciation to both employees for going above and beyond for students.
“Both of these ladies do an amazing job with our kids, so thank you both,” said Langley. Robert Knox, campus director at DAEP, commented on how supportive Williams is, stating she believes every child deserves a caring adult. The sentiments even brought Superintendent Langley to tears as they were conveyed to the crowd.
“She believes every child deserves a caring adult and it shouldn’t matter what role or title you hold as we’re all here for our students,” Knox stated about Williams. “She wants the best for them so they can be successful.” Knox applauded Williams for not only her positivity, but her contributions to creating a friendly and cooperative environment on campus.
“These unselfish acts are the reasons why Ms. Williams is an Extra Mile employee,” said Langley. MEGS Principal Jerry Hancock expressed his appreciation to his nominee, Venable, noting how she goes above and beyond and acts as someone who not only checks all boxes for being an exceptional educator but also holds a true heart for students.
“She takes the time to build meaningful relationships with students that allow her to push students to reach their potential,” Hancock commented. “In her first year at MEGS, I’ve witnessed her support students, push students, love students and hold students accountable all with the same compassionate and loving demeanor that makes students feel valued. She truly understands what ‘students first’ mean.
” Hancock explained almost every student comes to MEGS with some type of situation that has created the traditional pathway of attaining a high school diploma difficult or almost impossible to achieve. He said Venable understands the true value of removing those barriers. “It is an honor and a privilege to call her friend and serve alongside her each day to care for our students,” said Hancock.
Teacher of the Year Awards Teacher of the Year Award recipients were: Laverne Russell of Little Mav Academy, Shirley Royal of DAEP, Gayle Jessie of Marshall Early Childhood Center, Josveli Ramirez of David Crockett Elementary, Malorie Buford of Price T. Young Fine Arts Academy, Veronica Pearson of Sam Houston STEM Academy, LaVoyia Dunn of William B. Travis Elementary, Sharon Johnson of Marshall Junior High School, Kennedy Voldan of Marshall High School and Beverly Williams of Marshall Early Graduation School.
The teachers were thanked for all of their hard work and dedication to students. Superintendent Langley noted that the district will soon nominate a secondary and elementary teacher for Region 7 recognition, and possibly go on to win at the state level. “We definitely have teachers here that should win at the state level,” she praised.
AVID Recognition According to MISD officials, the “Emerging Schoolwide” status earned by the AVID program at MJHS is awarded to sites that have met AVID’s implementation expectations and submitted required data documentation that supports program effectiveness and student progress. The congratulatory letter notes that the certification process is designed to assist AVID sites in achieving their college readiness goals that are precursors for academic success in high school and postsecondary education. “We applaud you for your diligence in attaining this achievement and we look forward to your continued leadership in providing quality education for all students,” the congratulatory letter stated.
Langley also applauded AVID director Kiel on a job well done. “Almost every time I’m in your classroom, I get to meet the kids. You’re doing a great job, so thank you,” the superintendent said.
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