- Crowley Independent School District
- Black History Quiz Bowl
Black History Quiz Bowl
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LIVE BRACKETS | EVENT MAP
LIVE BRACKETS | EVENT MAP
February is Black History Month and you can celebrate with Crowley ISD as we honor the heritage, histories, cultures and contributions of Black Americans who have positively influenced and given our nation hope.
The theme for 2024 focuses on African Americans and the Arts. African American art is infused with African, Caribbean, and Black American lived experiences. In the fields of visual and performing arts, literature, fashion, folklore, language, film, music, architecture, culinary and other forms of cultural expression, the African American influence has been paramount.
Our annual Black History Bowl will be held on Saturday, Feb. 24 at North Crowley High School. The bowl is a team competition, consisting of four students per team. There will be two age divisions, an elementary division (grades 3-5) and a senior division (grades 6-12).
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Visual Arts Contest
All artwork entries submitted by students for the purpose of judging must be created solely by the student entering the work and must be original works of art. Projects must meet all copyright standards and guidelines. Entries need to be labeled on the back of the work with the student’s name, grade level, school and teacher.
The theme is African Americans and the Arts.
All entries should be delivered to Misty Ressl, Crowley High School art teacher, by 4 p.m. on Friday, Feb. 16.
For more information, email misty.ressl@crowley.k12.tx.us.
Divisions
• Kindergarten-1st Grade
• 2nd-3rd Grade
• 4th-5th Grade
• 6th-7th Grade
• 8th-9th Grade
• 10th Grade
• 11th Grade
• 12th Grade -
Door Decorating Contest
Entries will be judged on the quality of construction, creativity, design and attention to the theme. All entries must be completed by 4 p.m. on Feb. 16 with an entry form displayed by the door. All campuses will be awarded a 1st, 2nd and 3rd-place winners. The first-place winner representing each campus will participate in the district competition for the selection of one elementary school winner and one secondary school winner.
For more information, contact Cosheda Hurd at the following email address: cosheda.hurd@crowley.k12.tx.us. -
Black History Month Spotlight: Alma Hills
As we conclude our Black History Month spotlights, please meet Alma Hills, a reading interventionist at David L. Walker Elementary School. Hills is a trailblazer and accomplished educator who has worked in the field for 45 years.
"Mrs. Hills not only educates minds but also nurtures hearts, teaching us all to see the beauty and potential in every individual," Nicole Montgomery, principal of Walker Elementary, said. "Her work extends beyond the classroom, touching lives at her church too, where her passion for teaching shines brightly. Mrs. Hills is not just an educator; she is a guiding light, illuminating paths of success for all who cross her path."
Read the Q&A below to learn more about this amazing educator:
1. What is your role at David L. Walker Elementary School and what do you enjoy about it?
I am the Reading Interventionist for David L. Walker Elementary School. I enjoy working with students to accelerate their academic achievement. I enjoy seeing students realize the potential within them.
2. How long have you been a teacher and what led you to this career?
I have been a teacher 38 years. I have worked in education 45 years. My work in education prior to becoming a teacher awakened my desire to help students by teaching.
3. What roles have you served in during your education career?
Tutor, guidance aide, academic support coordinator, teacher, consultant, speaker, vice-principal, principal, conference coordinator
4. Tell us about growing up in Fort Worth and attending segregated schools at that time.
As a child, I lived on what is now referred to as the “Historic Southside” of Fort Worth. I started first grade (there was no kindergarten) in 1965 at Morningside Elementary School. From my childhood perspective, the community was a vibrant, thriving community. Everyone in the community and school was of African-American descent. At school, all of my classmates, teachers, administrators, staff members, custodians were African American. The school and school grounds were well kept. The teachers and staff were well-educated and took pride in making sure we learned and became productive citizens in society. Our furniture and books, however, were often old, hand-me-downs. I was in the fifth grade before I was issued a brand new textbook. Nevertheless, we learned from the old, repaired, marked books.
5. When did you move to California and what was your college experience like there?
In 1971, my father was offered a job in San Diego, California. He had worked off and on with General Dynamics in Fort Worth since 1968, when he was hired as one of the first African American mechanics for that company. My parents quickly made the decision to move. I lived in San Diego for 43 years, graduating from junior high school in 1974, high school in 1977, college in 1982, and I retired (for the first time) as a principal in 2014. After my first retirement, my family moved back to Fort Worth.
For college, I attended the University of California at San Diego (UCSD). My college years were a mix of great learning, great experiences and great struggles. At the time, California’s UC system boasted that they only accepted the top 12.5 percent of high school graduating seniors. Although I was accepted in that number, I received constant reminders that I would likely flunk out of UCSD because my preparation (from segregated Morningside Elementary in Fort Worth to socially/economically disadvantaged Morse High School in San Diego) was considered by many as inadequate for coping with the stringent academic rigors and standards of a university that was considered third in research in the USA at the time. Yet, I was determined to prove that all of the naysayers were wrong, and I did.
Not only did I graduate from this prestigious university, I held several significant student positions during tenure there: 1978-79 – Vice-President of the Black Students’ Union (BSU); 1979-80 – BSU President; 1980-82 – Business Manager of the 100+ member Gospel Choir; 1979-82 – Writer for the People’s Voice newspaper; and 1981-82 – I was elected as the first black Vice-President of the UCSD student government (ASUCSD) where we made decisions for the entire student body and managed a $250,000 budget for student affairs. I was also selected as the student speaker for my college’s graduation ceremony.
6. Tell us more about yourself, your family and what’s important to you.
I enjoy reading, swimming, and helping others. This August, I will have been married 40 years. My husband and I have one daughter. Integrity is important to me and I try to live by its principles in all that I do. Once when I was asked to speak at a Nebraska School Board conference, I was given the opportunity to choose my topic. I chose, “Integrity and Its Relationship to Student Achievement.” Integrity makes everything stronger, safer and more efficient.
7. Who is your hero and why?
My parents are my heroes. They decided before I was born, that they would pour into me all they could to make me great, while being the example of what they were trying to teach me. Having served thousands of children throughout the years, I understand what great forethought, foresight, sacrifice, faith, and heart it took for them to prepare me for life. We ate dinner together seven nights a week. We discussed everything, everyday at that dinner table, from world affairs, to friends/enemies, to daily problems and more. They took my brothers and I nearly everywhere they went. My father believed that if his children could not attend an event, that he should not. I was not put in a corner and “kept in my place” as a child. I was always welcomed to conversations my parents had in common spaces, meetings, etc. They supported me and financed my college education so that I would not have to take out loans to get through college. We did the same for our daughter, which is the underlying reason I first accepted the teaching job in Crowley ISD. My parents have always given me the best of advice, even when I did not want to hear or believe it. My father passed away in 2007, but his influence and my mother’s, who is still living, continues to reign hugely in my life. John F. Key, Sr. and Bettie J. Key are my heroes.
8. As we celebrate Black History Month, what do you want the world to know about the culture and contribution of African Americans?
African Americans have a long and distinguished history, dating back to the earliest of times. There have been times of glory, such as the magnificent societies of Ghana, Mali and Songhai of West Africa (8th – 12th centuries). There was the darkest time in our history – the capturing and transporting of countless millions of Africans from our motherland to some of the cruelest and oppressive forms of slavery and “humans’ inhumanities to humans.” Currently, we are still in the long, hard struggle to rise above the atrocities we’ve suffered from that cruel chapter in our history. We celebrate the achievements and the victories in this struggle, but no one who understands the plight of African Americans can rest from the struggle, or think that we have overcome.
9. What do you hope all students will learn, understand and appreciate during Black History Month?
In the words of Martin Luther King, Jr., from his “Letter from the Birmingham Jail,” “Injustice anywhere is a threat to justice everywhere. We are caught in an inescapable network of mutuality, tied in a single garment of destiny. Whatever affects one directly, affects all indirectly.” Truly, we are all in this together, so all people, from all walks of life must work together to positively affect us all.
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Black History Month Spotlight: Donovan Ughanze
As we continue our #BlackHistoryMonth spotlights, our next feature is on Donovan Ughanze, a sophomore from North Crowley High School. Learn more about his family history and extracurricular activities in the Q&A below. #CrowleyPrideUnifiedTell us about your family and your African American heritage.
What do you hope all students will learn, understand and appreciate during Black History Month?“That where we are right now is so much improvement from where we were as a community. We should be proud and want to continue to strive to be better as a community.”
Who is your hero and why?"My mother is my hero. She has shown me that even though there have been rough times, you can still keep pushing until you find the success you have been working for, so that you can be in a better situation.”
What activities are you involved in at school and outside of school and what do you enjoy about them?“I am a part of the North Crowley football team and the track team. I also attend the Crowley Collegiate Academy. I volunteer at the Union Gospel Mission of Tarrant County and hand food out to the less fortunate. I am also a member of Student Voter Empowerment Club (SVEC).”
As the President of the Student Empowerment Voter Club at North Crowley HS, what do you do in that role and what do you enjoy about it?“I have learned that sharing the spotlight can teach you more than holding it. I enjoy that we are trying to get knowledge to people about how they can impact their government, so that the government can work in their favor. I have learned that there is a significantly low voter turnout in ages from 18 to 24.”
How has your Crowley ISD family supported you personally and/or educationally?“Coach Gates has done a fantastic job of keeping me in line, and seeing where I was, where I am and where I am headed. Dr. Layne has shown me how to be a stronger leader and how to lead by example, and not lead blindly. Both have shown me how to be an amazing man and leader.” -
Black History Month Spotlight: Sgt. Shannas Jackson
Learn more about Sgt. Shannas Jackson and his role in the Crowley ISD Police Department and his passion for music in the Q&A below.
Explain your role with the Crowley ISD Police Department and what you enjoy most about it?“I am the Patrol Sergeant for the CISD Police Department. I enjoy being involved with our students throughout the district and participating in events like career days. I also enjoy building relationships. I think it is important to give our students a realistic vision of the police without any biases.”
In your opinion, why is it important that Crowley ISD has its own police department?“It is a great opportunity for Crowley ISD to have its own police department, because it allows us to have a more personal connections with students and staff. Our officers have different passions for the job, and we focus on building relationships with our students, which allows us to watch them grow. We want to give them chances that they will not be allotted by municipal police officers.”
Tell us more about yourself and your family and what is important to you.“I have been married to my lovely wife, Casandra, for 18 years. We have two young adult children. Our son is 22 and our daughter is 21. We have always believed that it is important to give our children opportunities that we did not have. We had elevated expectations so they could be successful citizens in this world. My daughter graduated from cosmetology school and my son graduated from the police academy and is currently a police officer too.”
Who is your hero and why?“My grandmother is my hero. She was a loving person that always put herself above everyone. She took me and my two brothers in at an incredibly early age, and she raised us as her own. I am forever grateful for the values that she instilled in me.”
What do you enjoy most about working in Crowley ISD?“I enjoy the atmosphere and the leadership. It is important to lead by example. The leadership within the department has no problem getting in the field and working. That is not a characteristic that I have seen in previous departments and that is very motivating.”
What do you enjoy doing away from work? Any hobbies or secret talents?“Music, music, and more music is life. I love to play the piano, the acoustic guitar and I DJ events. I began playing the piano when I was in high school, but I toyed with it well before that. My grandmother decided to surprise me with lessons one day. From there, I played in church well into my 30’s. Now, I DJ private events, as well as restaurants and clubs on occasion.”
As we celebrate Black History Month, what do you want the world to know about the culture and contribution of African Americans?“I want the world to know and understand that African Americans have impacted the world in many positive ways. They have influenced things such as music, culture, language, religion, dance, athletics and much more. They have significant roles in many different career fields such as law enforcement.”
What do you hope all students will learn, understand and appreciate during Black History Month?“I hope students understand they can accomplish anything their hearts desire because the road has been paved for them. They can achieve any level of education and be impactful to the world we live in. There are no limits or boundaries. The examples of many historical African Americans prove this to be true.” -
Black History Month Spotlight: Madyson Stanton
Check out this Q&A with Madyson Stanton, a sophomore from Crowley High School. #CrowleyPrideUnified What activities do you participate in, and what do you enjoy about them?"I love to dance, and I’ve done it for all my life. I am in the senior group with the Bruce Lee Dance Factory showcase dance team. I have always enjoyed playing sports and being active. With any of my activities, I have made long-lasting friendships and life-long memories. I currently run track and play volleyball at Crowley High School. I am also the president of the Student Voter Empowerment Club, a member of Student Council and a founder/member of the recently established student-athlete support group known as "The Flock" at CHS." Tell us more about your organization(s). What do you enjoy about being involved?"The Student Voter Empowerment Club (SVEC) is a student-led civic engagement club that helps students learn about civics, increases student voter turnout and cultivates a lifelong commitment to voting and civic engagement. The reason I wanted to join SVEC is because I wanted to encourage more students to vote, not only because they can and have access to it, but because it affects their community. I am also a part of the audio/visual production team at the Bill R. Johnson CTE Center. It offers me the ability to put my creative initiative into whatever videos, skits or edits I’m making, but never limits the freedom I have." What are your career goals and plans for the future?“I have a few thoughts and ideas, but I honestly haven't made a clear career goal/decision. I know it is important to set goals and plan for the future by exploring my interests and researching potential career paths. Whether it is engineering, dance, sports, videography or being an entrepreneur, I want to navigate the process and pursue a career that aligns with my passions and goals. While pursuing my interests and passions, I also want to prioritize financial stability by seeking part-time employment, applying for scholarships and financial aid, and managing my finances wisely. That will help me with the freedom to explore different career options without feeling pressured to make immediate decisions based solely on financial considerations. Right now, my plan is to make the remainder of this school year as fun as the beginning." Tell us about your family and your African American Heritage and what makes you proud of it."My immediate family consists of my parents and younger sister. Our family often gets together with my extended family, for family get-togethers; I love family get-togethers. My family's African American Heritage is deeply rooted in Texas and the knowledge of that history goes back to the 1800's. My parents remind me of the struggles, sacrifices and accomplishments of African American heritage. This is a reminder and a source of strength, inspiration and identity that can guide me through all life's challenges and triumphs. My pride in my heritage is not only a reflection of my past, but also a beacon for my future, empowering me to make a positive impact in my community and beyond. That is what makes me most proud of my heritage." As we celebrate Black History Month, what do you want the world to know about the culture and contribution of African Americans?"African Americans have been and are still being denied the basic rights that should be granted to anyone regardless of their race. While living with the struggles of not having those basic rights and freedoms, African Americans' have continued to sacrifice and fight for them; for ALL people. Despite that, African Americans' culture and contributions have influenced, impacted and improved every culture around the world. Leading to advancements in civil rights, desegregation and the recognition of human rights for all individuals. Moreover, African American culture has had a profound influence on global culture, music, art, literature, cuisine, fashion and more. From jazz and blues to hip-hop and literature, African American culture has enriched and transformed societies worldwide, fostering greater diversity, inclusivity and understanding. That should make everyone want to learn more about African Americans." What do you hope that all students will learn and understand about Black History Month?"By expanding our understanding of Black histories beyond narratives of oppression, we can celebrate the resilience, and creativity, of Black communities and individuals and work towards a more inclusive society. African Americans' culture and contributions have influenced, impacted and improved every culture around the world. Leading to advancements in civil rights, desegregation and the recognition of human rights for all individuals. Moreover, African American culture has had a profound influence on global culture, music, art, literature, cuisine, fashion and more. From jazz and blues to hip-hop and literature, African American culture has enriched and transformed societies worldwide, fostering greater diversity, inclusivity and understanding. That should make everyone want to learn more about African Americans." What does “Black Girl Magic” mean to you and how do you model it daily?“Black girl magic is the celebration of beauty, strength, resilience and achievements of black women. I am African American. My skin is like no others. My hair is beautiful. My body is perfect just the way it is. I am intelligent. I do have a voice. And last, but not least, I am important. Showing other young black girls to be yourself, support your sisters and lift them.”
