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Texas educators, it’s your time to shine! Apply now ...
SAN ANTONIO, Texas —H-E-B is now accepting applications for the 2025 H-E-B Excellence in Education Awards , which awards cash prizes to educators who go the extra mile to serve their students and their communities. All state-certified public school educators currently teaching in Texas, as well as Texas early childhood education centers/schools, are eligible to apply before December 2, 2024 at heblovesteachers.com/apply/ . The 2025 H-E-B Excellence in Education Awards categories include: Teacher School Counselor Principal Early Childhood Facility School Board School District Since 2002, the H-E-B Excellence in Education Awards program has awarded more than $14 million in funding to finalists, winners and their schools. “The H-E-B Excellence in Education Awards is more than just recognition—it’s an opportunity for teachers, counselors, and administrators to win cash prizes and matching grants for their schools,” Jill Reynolds, H-E-B Public Affairs Manager, said. “An application can lead to funding that has impactful benefits for educators, their students and community.” Every year, H-E-B accepts nominations for the Excellence in Education Awards before applications open. While a nomination is not required to apply for an award, a nomination lets an educator know they are appreciated and encouraged to apply for the awards program. Nominees will receive an emailed invitation to apply and must submit an application to be considered for the 2025 H-E-B Excellence in Education Awards. Individuals who nominated an educator can encourage them to apply as well. Finalists and winners will be selected by a panel of judges composed of educators, administrators and community leaders throughout the state. Ten winners—six teachers, two counselors and two principals—along with an early childhood facility, public school board and two school districts, will be announced at an awards ceremony in May 2025. Each award recipient’s school will also receive a matching grant. In 2024, the H-E-B Excellence in Education Awards program distributed over $780,000 in cash and grants to educators and schools. Through this program, H-E-B seeks to pay tribute to those educators who go the extra mile each day to serve their students and communities and who inspire others to do the same. To apply, visit heblovesteachers.com/apply/ . Eligibility Eligibility is not dependent on proximity to H-E-B store locations. Teachers who have been previously selected as statewide winners are not eligible to reapply until they have entered a new award category based on years of experience. Teachers who have been chosen as a statewide finalist must wait at least one year before reapplying. School district, early childhood and school board winners are not eligible to reapply. Finalists in these categories must wait at least one year before re-applying. About the H-E-B Excellence in Education Awards Each year, the H-E-B Excellence in Education Awards program awards cash prizes to honor outstanding public school professionals, and to thank them for their dedication and commitment. Through this program, H-E-B seeks to pay tribute to those educators who go the extra mile every day to serve their students and their communities and who inspire others to do the same. Since the program’s inception in 2002, H-E-B has awarded more than $14 million in funding to outstanding Texas teachers, counselors, principals, public schools, early childhood centers, school boards and school districts. To learn more, visit HEBLovesTeachers.com .
Thursday, Oct 10 2024
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Liberty Hill ISD is at a Breaking Point: Doing More ...
The Liberty Hill Independent School District (LHISD) Board of Trustees received a financial efficiency audit review from Moak Casey at the Sept. 16, 2024 board meeting. The independent efficiency auditor found that LHISD is facing financial challenges that will impact the current education and extracurricular programming provided to students. House Bill 3 (86th Legislative Session) generally requires school districts' board of trustees to conduct an efficiency audit before conducting a Voter Approval Tax-Rate Election such as the School Funding Election that LHISD trustees have called for this November. The Legislative Budget Board has released guidelines that govern what must be included in a district’s efficiency audit. As the district prepares for the upcoming school funding election, the independent efficiency audit report shows the underlying reasons why the district needs additional revenue. This article breaks down the key factors driving the district’s current financial strain and why the board of trustees selected to go out for an election in November 2024. Tax Rate Comparison Through elections, many nearby districts have increased their rates, resulting in higher local revenues that directly support school operations. These districts have passed elections, allowing them to add "pennies" to their tax rate, providing them with financial flexibility. LHISD has not yet raised local tax rates through elections, so these peer districts receive more funding per student than we do. Revenue Shortfall When property value increases, the state’s proportional contribution decreases. Because there is a gap between the property tax rate and the state's contributions, the district realized a $2 million deficit this school year. The efficiency audit report showed that LHISD receives significantly less funding per student compared to peer districts. Districts with larger populations in categories like special education (SPED), bilingual, career and technology, and economically disadvantaged students receive additional state funding, which LHISD lacks in proportion. As a result, our revenue per student falls below both peer districts and the state average, creating a financial strain as we work to meet the diverse needs of our students. Operating Expenditures Despite the revenue challenges, the audit shows that LHISD operates with financial efficiency as the district’s operating expenditures are lower than those of peer districts and the state average. The largest portion of these expenditures goes toward instruction, maintenance and operations, school counselors, mental health services, and specialized staff such as special education diagnosticians and speech-language pathologists. “We choose to make sure our kids are mentally healthy,” said LHISD Board Vice President Kathy Major. “Because if they aren’t mentally healthy, then they can’t learn what’s before them.” While we have been able to stretch our resources; however, the district’s ability to maintain this efficiency is not viable. Teacher and Administrative Salaries A critical area affected by this revenue shortfall is staff compensation. The audit report showed that the average teacher base salary at LHISD is below that of peer districts and the state average, making it difficult to retain and attract qualified educators. This discrepancy extends to administrative salaries, which are also lower compared to peer districts. Despite our efforts to be resource-efficient, the disparity in salaries is unsustainable as we compete with higher-paying districts for top talent. “Every cut we make is more work on our teachers,” said Superintendent Steve Snell. “We already pay our staff less than school districts our size in Texas, to make any additional cuts would mean more work on our teachers that are under the strain of state mandates and deserve more money, while handling the challenges of today's classroom.” Unsustainable Fund Balance The efficiency audit demonstrated that while the district once maintained enough funds to cover three months of operating expenses, rising costs due to growth and inflation have outpaced revenue, eroding the district’s financial savings. Though the district’s student population continues to grow, bringing in additional state funding, the increase in revenue does not match the rising costs of educating more students. Compounding this issue, as property values rise, the state contributes a smaller share of funding, placing a proportionally larger burden on local taxpayers and the district. “Whether you have kids in public school or not, it’s a privilege that the local government can step in and choose to help students in our district when we don’t have enough money coming in from the state right now,” said LHISD Board President Megan Parsons. A Breaking Point LHISD is doing everything possible to make the most of its resources, including seeking additional grants and funding to support the needs of its students. However, the district is at a breaking point, where “doing more with less” is no longer a sustainable option. Without the passage of the upcoming school funding election, LHISD faces the possibility of severe budget cuts, diminishing the current educational programs and extracurricular opportunities offered to students. To learn more about the school funding election, visit www.LHvotes.com .
Tuesday, Sep 17 2024
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Liberty Hill ISD Board of Trustees Names Executive D...
LIBERTY HILL, Texas – The Liberty Hill ISD Board of Trustees was pleased to announce the hiring of the district’s new Executive Director of Technology Gregg Burcham during the Sept. 9, 2024 special-called board meeting . With a dynamic career spanning strategic planning, project implementation, classroom instruction, and team management, Gregg is set to lead the organization in delivering high-quality technological solutions that meet the evolving needs of our district. Gregg holds a Bachelor of Science degree, graduating magna cum laude, from Southwestern Assemblies of God University in Waxahachie, TX, in 2002. Over the course of his career, he has built a multifaceted skill set, with 24 years of experience spanning across educational and non-educational environments. Most recently, he served as the director for networking and technology services for Little Elm ISD. His passion for technology leadership, combined with his dedication to driving innovation in IT, makes him an excellent fit for this new role. As a certified leader in education technology and IT management, Mr. Burcham is poised to guide Liberty Hill ISD through new and exciting technological advancement. Gregg grew up in rural Kansas where he learned the values of hard work, community and the importance of public education. After graduating from college, he began his career as a technology teacher. “My experiences have fueled my passion for public education, and I have dedicated myself to creating innovative learning opportunities for students," said Burcham. Gregg believes that public education is the foundation of our society. He strives daily to implement solutions that will result in better outcomes for generations to come. “I am honored to join Liberty Hill ISD and partner with the incredible Technology team to enhance educational experiences for students and empower educators,” said Burcham. “Together, we will design innovative and scalable solutions to foster creativity, collaboration, and critical thinking skills necessary for our students in this digital age.” Greg, his family, and their dog, Lucy, moved to Texas Hill Country where he can be close to family and enjoy being part of Liberty Hill ISD. His wife has also worked in education for 20 years, currently working for an educational service center. Outside of work Gregg enjoys spending time with his family, playing basketball and rooting for the Kansas City Chiefs. Welcome to the LHISD family, Gregg!
Wednesday, Sep 11 2024
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Board Briefs: August 2024
LHISD Board Briefs LHISD Board Briefs August 2024 - Regular Board Meeting Not displaying correctly? View in browser LHHS Solar Car Earns First Place in State Solar Car Race Our LHHS solar car team dominated the cruiser division with a max speed 40 mph and travelling 300 miles in 4 days at the Texas Motor Speedway. We are so proud of their ingenuity and determination! Chief Chris Rybarski Changes Tire for Stranded Parent During Convocation Chief Chris Rybarski was caught in the act of kindness after Convocation when a teacher found themselves stranded with a flat tire. Chief Rybarski took action and changed the tire, in the blistering heat! Liberty Hill ISD calls election to fund teacher raises, educational programs, help with deficit. T he Liberty Hill ISD Board of Trustees has scheduled a School Funding Election for November 5, 2024 in order to provide funding that would raise educator salaries while preserving instructional and extracurricular programs in the district. Over the past six years, the Liberty Hill ISD Board of Trustees has reduced the property tax rate by 37 cents per $100 property valuation. Proposition A on the November ballot would add 6 cents back to the tax rate, providing funding that would allow the district to increase educator pay and maintain educational programs. The election is a response to cuts in state and federal funding, as well as population growth in Liberty Hill and inflation over the past several years. Before the Board voted to call the election, Liberty Hill ISD Superintendent Steven Snell said, “Proposition A would make it possible for Liberty Hill ISD to give our teachers pay raises. Right now, we cannot afford raises because the state legislature has not invested the state surplus in public schools, federal funding is decreasing, and we have been facing high inflation and increasing operational costs. Prop A would generate additional funding that we could use to pay teachers more and to protect the programs that have helped Liberty Hill ISD build champions in academics, character and community.” Liberty Hill ISD and school districts across Texas face funding shortfalls due to legislative action. For example, the state has reduced a funding stream that is specifically for fast-growing districts such as Liberty Hill ISD, and a major federal funding source is about to expire. At the same time, inflation has driven schools’ operating costs higher. From 2019 to 2023, while the state Legislature did not increase the main unit of funding education — the Basic Allotment — Liberty Hill ISD saw cost increases of 83% for utilities, 176% for fuel, and 172% for insurance. In response, the district has reduced expenses by $2 million. Those cuts have largely included freezing staff positions. Without Proposition A, the district would face further cuts, including reductions of up to 10 percent of the district’s teaching workforce, as well as cuts impacting instruction and extracurricular activities. Liberty Hill ISD Board President Megan Parsons said before the board vote, “This board cares deeply for this community and for education. In Liberty Hill ISD, we have continued to serve and provide for our growing student population despite the challenges of unfunded state mandates, lack of funding - even though we have seen significant inflation, and cuts in other funding, such as our fast-growth allotment. I believe Proposition A will allow Liberty Hill voters to decide whether to reward our teachers and maintain excellence in our schools, or whether we are forced to make deeper budget cuts that will impact the quality of education we offer.” If voters approve Proposition A on November 5, the total school district tax rate will be $1.23 per $100 property valuation, which would increase the monthly tax bill on a median-value home (valued at $462,264) by $18.11. However, homeowners who have received a tax-payment freeze because they are at least 65 years old or they have a disability would see no increase in their tax payment, provided they make no substantial improvements to their home. The Liberty Hill ISD Board of Trustees also called an Attendance-Credit Election for November 5. Due to property-value growth, the district will soon be required to start making payments to the state through a process known as recapture. All Texas school districts who send these required payments to the state must hold an Attendance Credit Election. Proposition B would simply authorize the district to make its required payments to the state; it would not impact the tax rate. If voters do not approve Proposition B, the state could permanently remove some property from Liberty Hill ISD for property-tax purposes. For example, the state could require a large retail business within Liberty Hill ISD to make property-tax payments to a different school district. Even as the business grew more and more valuable, its payments would not go to Liberty Hill ISD. In other words, the responsibility of funding Liberty Hill ISD schools would be spread among a smaller number of property owners. “Because of growth in our property values, the state is going to take money away from Liberty Hill one way or another,” Superintendent Snell said before the Board voted to call the election. “Proposition B would allow the district to make its required payment to the state. Without Prop B, the state can permanently remove property — such as large businesses — from our tax base. We want to keep Liberty Hill property values in Liberty Hill.” For detailed information about the Liberty Hill ISD School Funding Election, Proposition A, and Proposition B, visit www.LHvotes.com . To view the public hearing: 2024-25 budget and proposed tax rate presentation that was provided to the Board on Aug. 15, 2024, click here. Click here to listen to the live stream from the August 15, 2024 special-called board meeting. There were no public comments during this board meeting. Communication Items - District Updates Superintendent Steve Snell shared updates about the first week of school, " We have had a great start to school," said Snell. "Each day has been better than the last. The traffic has been better, buses and learning in the classroom has been unbelievable. Every school I go into, I'm seeing happy teachers and happy kids." The District Annual Audit Process started this week. Construction updates Design work continues on Elementary #8 - Located in the Lariat Subdivision. Expected opening is in the fall of 2026. Design work continues on LHHS renovations and additions of a new Band Hall, Robotics classrooms, expanded cafeteria, and other fine arts renovations. Work is expected to start in May of 2025. The returning of LHHS Baseball and Softball started this week and is expected to be completed in mid-September. The Legacy Ranch sports fields are complete. Work continues on the field house and lighting. LMHS, Tierra Rosa and Legacy Ranch are all complete and in the punch list phase. 18+ Building is behind schedule, tracking to be complete on Sept. 9. The Board approved the consent agenda which included: The tax collection summary Finance summary report Budget amendments Purchases over $50,000 Food services equipment for Bill Burden Elementary School Universal screeners for Reasoning Through Language Arts (RLA) and Math Benchmark instructional materials for English Language Arts and Reading Instructional materials for English Learners Language Arts (ELLA), English Language Development and Acquisition (ELDA), English Language Arts and Reading (ELAR) and Social Studies Capital area regional day school program for the deaf agreement Contracted service for software database agreement Contracted services for School Health and Related Services (SHARS) District enrollment is at 9,626 as of August 16, 2024 Food services adult meal prices will stay at $4.50. Resolution for Extracurricular Status of 4-H members Joint election agreement with WILCO in November Action Items The Board approved Insurance Coverage, Limits, Deductibles, and Contributions for 2024-25 in the amount of $899, 657 as presented by Rosanna Guerrero. The Board approved the development agreement with 5500 CR 277 Investments, LLC., the owner of property adjacent to LHHS, and the grant of the permanent and temporary easements and right-of-way improvements. The Board approved the purchase of a tract of land containing approximately 8.491 acres, described in WILCO Appraisal District R315566, located in Liberty Hill. The Board approved the purchase of a tract of land containing approximately .56 acres, described in part in WILCO Appraisal District R315566, located in Liberty Hill. The Board approved action on personnel: accepting resignations, employing personnel The next regular board meeting will be September 16, 2024. To listen to the August 19, 2024 board meeting, click here. Vaping Prevention Resources | HHS.gov Official websites use .gov A.gov website belongs to an official government organization in the United States. Secure .gov websites use HTTPS A lock ( Lock A locked padlock ) or https:// means you've safely connected to the .gov website. Share sensitive information only on official, secure websites. digitalmedia.hhs.gov Steven Snell Superintendent of Liberty Hill ISD Liberty Hill ISD. Building Champions in Academics, Character, and Community Email: superintendent@libertyhill.txed.net Website: libertyhill.txed.net Location: 301 Forrest Street, Liberty Hill, TX, USA Phone: 512-260-5580 Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/steve.snell.585 Twitter: @s_snell Liberty Hill Communications Liberty is using Smore to create beautiful newsletters Liberty Hill ISD Communications
Friday, Aug 23 2024
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One City, Two Teams, My Story
My name is Reese Williams and this summer I had the wonderful opportunity to Intern with the Liberty Hill ISD Communications Department. For starters, I am a student at Tarleton State University in Stephenville, TX. I am majoring in Communications with a minor in Business and English. I will begin the second semester of my Junior year in late August. This internship has provided important experiences and created valued relationships that I will cherish forever. These past few months I have seen Liberty Hill ISD in a completely different way than I have in my whole life. Being a 2022 graduate of Liberty Hill High School, and an attendee of LHISD since Kindergarten, I had grown accustomed to the drive 30 minutes to the grocery store, and know everyone, small town. As I grew in school, Liberty Hill did too. In the 15 years I have been an LH native, we have gone from five campuses to 11 as of this past week. And not to mention, this Texas Football town finally got its Dairy Queen only about six years ago. Over the summer my perspective shifted, as if I were viewing everything through a new lens. A new lens figuratively and literally, as you may or may not have seen me taking photos at numerous District events over the summer. I also played a role in managing social media accounts, designing graphics for upcoming events and holidays, and, most importantly, embracing a continuous learning process. Even though I graduated two years ago, LHISD has shown me that there is always more to learn and you are forever a part of the Liberty Hill family. When my family and I moved across Hwy 29 in 2018, the chances of my two younger siblings graduating as Panthers were becoming slim. The thought of small town Liberty Hill having two high schools seemed far off, but there is no day like the present! I am now a proud big sister to a Legacy Ranch Wrangler and a Santa Rita Stallion. And I think I am more excited than them about their new schools. Being a student intern, I worked closely with our new high school Legacy Ranch over the summer. I even started wearing more blue than purple thanks to Mr. Koller’s “blue only” fashion sense. Although I may be a K-12, OG Panther, I feel I am an honorary Wrangler, or as the kids call it, I am “So Legacy”. In conclusion, you could say “I root for both”. As my summer comes to a close, I have nothing but gratitude for LHISD, Rachel Acosta, Kristin Coulter, and Mr. Snell. Without them, I would not have had the opportunity to have this monumental experience for my future professional endeavors. Being housed in the Administration building has given me a new appreciation for those in our School District. Witnessing firsthand the dedication and effort that goes into making our district amazing has been eye-opening. It’s clear that a large amount of time and energy is devoted to equipping our teachers with the tools they need to continue Building Champions. Although so much change has happened since I was a student, somehow everything still feels exactly the same. This summer was like a walk down memory lane, but with a few new places and faces along the way. As Mr. Snell stated, “It’s a new era. We have Panther Nation, we have Wrangler Nation. But we are going to come together as One Liberty Hill.” And remember, every day is a great day to be a Panther, and a Wrangler! Go Cats! Wreck Em!
Monday, Aug 19 2024
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Liberty Hill ISD calls election to fund teacher rais...
LIBERTY HILL ISD, Texas — T he Liberty Hill ISD Board of Trustees has scheduled a School Funding Election for November 5, 2024 in order to provide funding that would raise educator salaries while preserving instructional and extracurricular programs in the district. Over the past six years, the Liberty Hill ISD Board of Trustees has reduced the property tax rate by 37 cents per $100 property valuation. Proposition A on the November ballot would add 6 cents back to the tax rate, providing funding that would allow the district to increase educator pay and maintain educational programs. The election is a response to cuts in state and federal funding, as well as population growth in Liberty Hill and inflation over the past several years. Before the Board voted to call the election, Liberty Hill ISD Superintendent Steven Snell said, “Proposition A would make it possible for Liberty Hill ISD to give our teachers pay raises. Right now, we cannot afford raises because the state legislature has not invested the state surplus in public schools, federal funding is decreasing, and we have been facing high inflation and increasing operational costs. Prop A would generate additional funding that we could use to pay teachers more and to protect the programs that have helped Liberty Hill ISD build champions in academics, character and community.” Liberty Hill ISD and school districts across Texas face funding shortfalls due to legislative action. For example, the state has reduced a funding stream that is specifically for fast-growing districts such as Liberty Hill ISD, and a major federal funding source is about to expire. At the same time, inflation has driven schools’ operating costs higher. From 2019 to 2023, while the state Legislature did not increase the main unit of funding education — the Basic Allotment — Liberty Hill ISD saw cost increases of 83% for utilities, 176% for fuel, and 172% for insurance. In response, the district has reduced expenses by $2 million. Those cuts have largely included freezing staff positions. Without Proposition A, the district would face further cuts, including reductions of up to 10 percent of the district’s teaching workforce, as well as cuts impacting instruction and extracurricular activities. Liberty Hill ISD Board President Megan Parsons said before the board vote, “This board cares deeply for this community and for education. In Liberty Hill ISD, we have continued to serve and provide for our growing student population despite the challenges of unfunded state mandates, lack of funding - even though we have seen significant inflation, and cuts in other funding, such as our fast-growth allotment. I believe Proposition A will allow Liberty Hill voters to decide whether to reward our teachers and maintain excellence in our schools, or whether we are forced to make deeper budget cuts that will impact the quality of education we offer.” If voters approve Proposition A on November 5, the total school district tax rate will be $1.23 per $100 property valuation, which would increase the monthly tax bill on a median-value home (valued at $462,264) by $18.11. However, homeowners who have received a tax-payment freeze because they are at least 65 years old or they have a disability would see no increase in their tax payment, provided they make no substantial improvements to their home. The Liberty Hill ISD Board of Trustees also called an Attendance-Credit Election for November 5. Due to property-value growth, the district will soon be required to start making payments to the state through a process known as recapture. All Texas school districts who send these required payments to the state must hold an Attendance Credit Election. Proposition B would simply authorize the district to make its required payments to the state; it would not impact the tax rate. If voters do not approve Proposition B, the state could permanently remove some property from Liberty Hill ISD for property-tax purposes. For example, the state could require a large retail business within Liberty Hill ISD to make property-tax payments to a different school district. Even as the business grew more and more valuable, its payments would not go to Liberty Hill ISD. In other words, the responsibility of funding Liberty Hill ISD schools would be spread among a smaller number of property owners. “Because of growth in our property values, the state is going to take money away from Liberty Hill one way or another,” Superintendent Snell said before the Board voted to call the election. “Proposition B would allow the district to make its required payment to the state. Without Prop B, the state can permanently remove property — such as large businesses — from our tax base. We want to keep Liberty Hill property values in Liberty Hill.” For detailed information about the Liberty Hill ISD School Funding Election, Proposition A, and Proposition B, visit www.LHvotes.com .
Friday, Aug 16 2024
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LHHS Senior Gigi Muniu Represents LHISD During Gover...
Earlier this year, 2025 LHHS Senior Ginevra (Gigi) Muniu was selected by our local electric cooperative, Pedernales Electric Cooperative, Inc. (PEC), to attend the Government-in-Action Youth Tour in Washington, D.C. as the Liberty Hill delegate sponsored by PEC. With only 150 delegates out of nearly 2,000 U.S. delegates, Gigi's selection to represent Liberty Hill and LHISD is a testament to who she is and brings credit upon our entire community. The tour included visits to several national monuments and memorials, including the Lincoln Memorial, Washington Monument, and the National Cathedral; each of which left a lasting impression on Gigi. "The experience was both educational and moving, as we learned about the historical significance of each monument and reflected on the enduring values of our nation," said Miniu. One of the highlights of the tour was the opportunity to engage with the staff of our congressional representative, the Honorable John Carter. "We participated in discussions about the workings of Congress, legislative correspondence, and most importantly, education policy, specifically within our congressional district and Liberty Hill ISD," said Miniu. "These conversations were incredibly insightful and reinforced the importance of staying informed and involved in our government. This also inspired me to become more active in my community and to advocate for the issues that matter to Liberty Hill students."
Tuesday, Jul 30 2024
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Liberty Hill ISD Dominates Solar Car Race with Energ...
In a dazzling display of engineering and endurance, Liberty Hill High School secured top honors in their division at the recent solar car race, culminating after four days of intense competition. The team's victory was highlighted by their remarkable efficiency and strategic prowess in navigating challenging weather conditions. From the outset, Liberty Hill surged ahead, establishing a commanding lead by the end of day three. However, it was on the fourth and final day that their true strength shone through. Amidst dense cloud cover and limited sunlight, many competitors faltered as their solar-powered vehicles struggled to make headway. In contrast, Liberty Hill's carefully designed car, with a strong battery charged from the day before, easily handled the tough conditions. "Our strategy was to build a vehicle that could maximize energy efficiency without sacrificing performance," said LHISD Solar Car Team Teacher Michael McGregor. "It was tough out there, especially with the weather, but the students' preparation and teamwork paid off." The team from Florida posed a formidable challenge with their faster, motor-driven vehicle, clinching a respectable second place. Yet, in this endurance-focused race, Liberty Hill's decision to prioritize energy conservation proved decisive. Their car, boasting an impressive 318-mile range on solar energy alone, outperformed not only larger vehicles in their division but also many smaller, lighter competitors from other categories. "This win is a testament to the dedication and ingenuity of our students," remarked McGregor. "They not only engineered a superior vehicle but also exhibited incredible perseverance throughout the race, despite sweltering track temperatures exceeding 100 degrees." Liberty Hill's triumph underscores their dominance in the realm of solar-powered vehicle innovation and highlights their ability to overcome adversity in pursuit of excellence. As they celebrate their well-deserved victory, the team looks forward to future challenges and opportunities to showcase their engineering prowess. For Liberty Hill High School, the solar car race victory is not just a triumph in competition but a testament to the spirit of innovation and perseverance that defines their "Building Champions" mentality. A job well done!
Friday, Jul 26 2024
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Liberty Hill ISD Board of Trustees Names New Rancho ...
LIBERTY HILL ISD, Texas – The Liberty Hill ISD Board of Trustees was happy to announce the hiring of Robert Gillis for the principal position at Rancho Sienna Elementary School during the July 15, 2024 board meeting. Mr. Gillis comes to us with 12 years of experience in education. Originally growing up in San Angelo, he followed in the footsteps of his parents who were teachers/coaches. They instilled a love of learning at a young age and he wanted to continue the legacy. In 2012, he graduated with a Bachelor of Science degree from Angelo State and went on to earn his Master in Educational Leadership at the University of Texas, Arlington in May 2018. He began his career in education at Rogers ISD as a history and math teacher/coach. He then spent time in Belton teaching science and coaching tennis while pursuing his master's degree. For the past six years, he has been an assistant principal in Leander ISD. Residents of Liberty Hill, Robert and his wife Erin settled here for the small-town family atmosphere about two years ago and have loved the community ever since. Erin is a fellow educator as she teaches in Leander ISD. His three children also attend schools in Leander ISD. Their daughter, Peyton will be a junior and his son, Brooks will be in third grade this coming school year. His youngest, Aria will begin her educational journey as she starts kindergarten this year! When he’s not working, Robert loves spending time with family and coaching his kids' sports teams. “I am honored to continue the rich tradition that has already been established at Rancho Sienna Elementary,” said Gillis. “I believe in building relationships with students, staff members, and the community in order for us to partner together to be successful. I am proud to be in Liberty Hill ISD and look forward to serving the Rancho Sienna community this school year!”
Tuesday, Jul 16 2024