As we continue to settle into our routines, I want to take a moment to reflect on all that our students have accomplished so far. From their academic achievements to their extracurricular activities, our students are constantly demonstrating their incredible potential. I am so proud of everything they continue to accomplish, and I am excited to see what they will achieve in the weeks and months to come. Thank you for your continued hard work and dedication.
I want to begin this week’s newsletter by highlighting our Harlandale Special Education Department for hosting a Special Olympics flag football game at our Harlandale Stadium recently. Students from each of our district's middle schools were able to participate in the spirit of friendly competition. Thank you Harlandale Special Education Department for your commitment to our students. The Special Olympics flag football game is just one example of the many ways this department works to ensure that all students have a positive and enriching school experience. Our Special Education Department will also be hosting its first ever Special Olympics Flag Football Frontier Bowl at Harlandale Memorial Stadium on Friday, Nov. 3 at 10:00 am. We'd love to see you there!
Congratulations are in order for the McCollum and Harlandale High School Marching Bands for receiving Superior Ratings at the recent UIL Region 11 Marching Band Contest. Both bands will advance to the UIL 5A Area H Marching Contest, which will take place on Saturday, Oct. 28 at Judson ISD's Rutledge Stadium. If you'd like to show your support, Harlandale High School will perform at 1:30 PM and McCollum High School will perform at 2:30 PM. Congratulations and best of luck to both bands. Your Harlandale Family is rooting for you!
Please join me in congratulating 2021 McCollum High School alumnus Sean Tejeda for being named the North Coast Athletic Conference Offensive Player of the Week! Sean, a quarterback for the Hiram College Terriers in Ohio, has thrown more than 200 yards in three consecutive games, the longest streak of his career. He also surpassed 3,000 career passing yards last Saturday, becoming the 10th quarterback in their program history to achieve this milestone. Congratulations, Sean! You are creating a lasting legacy. Click here to read more about Sean and this achievement.
Harlandale ISD teacher Dr. James Hernandez has been selected to attend a prestigious weekend retreat at The Holdsworth Center's Campus on Lake Austin. Only 120 educators from the San Antonio and Austin area were chosen for this honor, which recognizes educators who are making a significant impact on their students' lives. The retreat will include workshops on topics such as nutrition and stress management, group exercises, massages and more. Way to go, Dr. Hernandez! We’re looking forward to hearing about what you can bring back to our district.
Our United Way Campaign is officially underway! Last year, we raised $55,308, with 82 percent of our district participating. Those who donate to the campaign this year can enjoy the privilege of wearing jeans to work from Nov. 27 to Dec. 15. To participate and support this cause, please make your contribution on or before Nov. 14. Visit our District's United Way Campaign website for easy access and instructions on how to donate online. Every donation, no matter how big or small, makes a meaningful impact. When we come together, we have the power to create lasting, positive change.
As we wrap up this week's newsletter, I want to thank you all for your continued support and dedication to our District. I am grateful to have such a dedicated and passionate team that works together to provide our students with the best possible education. I am extremely prideful of our students, parents and staff who continue to make Harlandale a special community. I hope you have a wonderful weekend and a happy start to November!
Sincerely,
Gerardo Soto
Harlandale ISD Superintendent of Schools