texas scholars magazine

1Texas Scholars Magazine | Summer 2014

MARCY MARTINEZ“We’re All One Big Family”

Rio Hondo’sAlanizBrothers Tee Off

SBCISD’s

CELESTE SANCHEZ is San Benito’s

First Female Mayor

Mercedes (MECA)student claws throughher first year of college

GEORGE MCSHANOver 30 Years of

Visionary Leadership

Summer 2014

txscholarsmag.com Students + Educators + Leaders

2 Texas Scholars Magazine | Summer 2014

Be a Teacher! Project P.a.C.E., accredited by the Texas Education Agency, is an alternative route to teacher certification for those individuals who already have a bachelor’s degree. Project P.a.C.E. is a rigorous, fast-paced educator preparation program of the Region One Education Service Center, designed to prepare and certify highly qualified individuals to teach in Texas public schools. Candidates must have access to a computer, internet, and email.

Successful candidates will complete:• an intensive pre-assignment training program the summer prior to their internship year• a one year paid school-based internship or 12-14 week unpaid clinical teaching internship• Ongoing focused training sessions and preparation for the TExEs during the internship year.• Interns successfully completing all program/state requirements will be recommended for a standard Texas teaching certificate.

Your Future is in Your Hands...

ILP Minimum Requirements/Option 1If you already hold a Master’s Degree, earn a Principal’s Certificate

• A Master’s Degree from an accredited college or university;

• a minimum G.P.A. of 3.0 on a 4.0 scale;• a valid Texas Teacher certificate;• a minimum of 2 years of teaching experience in a PK-12

setting;• a minimum of 2 years of school leadership experience.

ILP Minimum Requirements/Option 2 Earn your Principal’s Certificate AND a Master’s Degree

• A Bachelor’s Degree from an accredited college or• university;• A minimum G.P.A. of 2.5 on a 4.0 scale;• A valid Texas Teacher certificate;• A minimum of 1 year of teaching experience in a PK-12

setting;• A minimum of 1 year of school leadership experience;

acceptance into a Walden University Master’s program. Master’s Degree through Region One ESC’s partnership with Walden University

Be a School Administrator!Your leadership qualities, coupled with your passion for education, and your desire to make a difference are reasons why you should think about earning your Principal Certification!

The Region One ESC Integrated Leadership Principal Preparation Program (ILP³) can make it happen! ILP³ is an accelerated alternative certification program of the Region One Education Service Center, designed to recruit, prepare, mentor, and certify aspiring campus administrators.

what will you do with yours?

Don’t wait-call today to secure your spot in the next ILP3 or Project P.a.C.E. Cohort Class!

To schedule an interview for ILP 3program placementcontact Sandra McConaughy at

(956) 984-6038 or [email protected]

If you have questions about Project P.a.C.E. contact Naomi Arnold at



Be a Teacher! Project P.a.C.E., accredited by the Texas Education Agency, is an alternative route to teacher certification for those individuals who already have a bachelor’s degree. Project P.a.C.E. is a rigorous, fast-paced educator preparation program of the Region One Education Service Center, designed to prepare and certify highly qualified individuals to teach in Texas public schools. Candidates must have access to a computer, internet, and email.

Successful candidates will complete:• an intensive pre-assignment training program the summer prior to their internship year• a one year paid school-based internship or 12-14 week unpaid clinical teaching internship• Ongoing focused training sessions and preparation for the TExEs during the internship year.• Interns successfully completing all program/state requirements will be recommended for a standard Texas teaching certificate.

Your Future is in Your Hands...

ILP Minimum Requirements/Option 1If you already hold a Master’s Degree, earn a Principal’s Certificate

• A Master’s Degree from an accredited college or university;

• a minimum G.P.A. of 3.0 on a 4.0 scale;• a valid Texas Teacher certificate;• a minimum of 2 years of teaching experience in a PK-12

setting;• a minimum of 2 years of school leadership experience.

ILP Minimum Requirements/Option 2 Earn your Principal’s Certificate AND a Master’s Degree

• A Bachelor’s Degree from an accredited college or• university;• A minimum G.P.A. of 2.5 on a 4.0 scale;• A valid Texas Teacher certificate;• A minimum of 1 year of teaching experience in a PK-12

setting;• A minimum of 1 year of school leadership experience;

acceptance into a Walden University Master’s program. Master’s Degree through Region One ESC’s partnership with Walden University

Be a School Administrator!Your leadership qualities, coupled with your passion for education, and your desire to make a difference are reasons why you should think about earning your Principal Certification!

The Region One ESC Integrated Leadership Principal Preparation Program (ILP³) can make it happen! ILP³ is an accelerated alternative certification program of the Region One Education Service Center, designed to recruit, prepare, mentor, and certify aspiring campus administrators.

what will you do with yours?

Don’t wait-call today to secure your spot in the next ILP3 or Project P.a.C.E. Cohort Class!

To schedule an interview for ILP 3program placementcontact Sandra McConaughy at


If you have questions about Project P.a.C.E. contact Naomi Arnold at



FROM THE PUBLISHER

THE STAFF

I hope everyone had a relaxing and revitalizing summer. If you’re new to Texas Scholars Magazine, please feel free to

indulge. Each individual featured is positively making a direct impact on their community and on their school districts. They’re winning and moving forward, elevating themselves

and the ones around them to persevere and excel.

In our Summer issue, we’re bringing you some major key players from the RGV area. Marcy Martinez, Celeste Sanchez and George McShan are all equallyimpressive, but share common interests; hard work, dedication to their craft and the desire to uplift their community. They’re role models and leaders and we’re honored to have them be a part of our mission. The students featured are going above and beyond to reach their goals. They are certainly on their way to a promising future and we’re excited for them.

Turn to page 7 to read up on our new Advisory Board. In each issue for the next year, we will introduce you to each member, giving you insight into who they are and why we are lucky to have them serve our readers. Please stay connected to us as we expand and as we grow. We wish only the best for our readers and our community.

Be well,Silvestre Treviño IV Publisher

December 2013

StaffThe

Letterfrom the CONTENTSPublisher

Publisher

Contributing Writer

Design

Editor

Story Ideas, Comments, or Inquiries: [email protected] Trevino IV

Eder Castillo

Victor Cerda III

[email protected]

[email protected]

Deborah MoralesChris Hoffman

Like us on Facebookwww.facebook.com/texasscholarsmagazine

pg 6: La Villa Bros.

pg 14: Donna Crime Stoppers

pg 20: Edinburg CISD

COMING UP NEXT ISSUE:• The McNeil Foundation Principal Certification Program is coming soon to Harlingen • Region One ESC - At Your Service

Advertising:

Please Recycle This Magazine Printed in Mexico

Another year has come and gone. The holiday cheer and imperative hustle and bustle has arrived as the outlet store shelves are cleared. What used to be one day of great consumer deals has progressively turned into, what seems like, an entire month of sales at the department stores. I’m not complaining, I like to save money where I can. So we tend to eat more, enjoy the blast of the cold winter climate, we exchange gifts, celebrate the traditions and it all flies by. Amidst all the excitement, I’m guilty of neglecting, what are in my own personal beliefs, the true meaning of Christmas. Being raised in a Catholic home, I’m reluctant to forget what faith has taught me about this beautiful holiday. I truly hope each and every one of you gets to enjoy the holidays, celebrate your own beliefs with your families and take some time to rejuvenate yourselves because 2014 has arrived!

Thank you all for your support and for being a part of our mission. Merry Christmas and Happy New Year!

Silvestre Trevino IVPublisher

pg 12: Weslaco ISD’s Superintendent Talks Tech

Publisher

Silvestre Treviño IV

contributing EditorsPatrick GarciaRoxann Garcia

Design

Carlos Pérez

Contributing WritersEder CastilloAmanda Longoria

story ideas, comments or [email protected]

[email protected](512)771-1205

[email protected] (956)226-3639

online

www.txscholarsmag.com

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CONTENTS / SUMMER 2014

Celeste SanchezSan Benito’s First FemaleMajor

16

health cornerThis School Year Make Breakfast a Priority

8Rio Hondo’s Alaniz Brothers Tee Off

10

Marcy Martinez“We’re All One Big Family”

12

student spotlightRobyn Chelsea SanchezClaws Through Her First Year of College

18

George McshanOver 30 years of Visionary Leadership

20


Thank You!F or the past two years, Texas Scholars Magazine has brought to light the leaders and

achievers of the classroom from throughout Texas. Beginning in the Rio Grande Valley, our coverage is stretching up to Central Texas and expanding toward Fort Worth, Texas.

We would like to extend our deepest gratitude to our sponsors, partners and advertisers for your continued business and support.

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MENCHACA AUTO SALES AND SERVICE

HARLINGEN

Samuel Reyes Attorney At Law • Rio Grande Valley Leader • Harlingen Economic Development CorporationEzequiel Tovar Attorney At Law • Sheriff Omar Lucio • Francisco J. Rodriguez Attorney At Law • VAMOS

Frank Federal Bonding • Dark Nights Comics • ERI-Grant Writing, Evaluation, and ProfesionalDevelopment Firm • CTC- Professional Development Center; Grant Management; and Publications Center


Texas Scholars Magazine Advisory Board

We’d like to welcome our 2014-2015 Advisory Board. This board is comprised ofdiverse individuals, serving as support and guidance within their realm of expertise.

Dr. Ruben Alejandro Superintendent of Schools, Weslaco ISD

Edna X. De Saro Senior Vice President and MarketingDirector, Lone Star National Bank

Dr. Manuel Gomez, Jr. Member, Board of Directors,Region One ESC

John Guevara Partner Attorney, Linebarger GogganBlair & Sampson, LLP

Dr. Velma Menchaca, Ph. D. Chair & Professor - Department ofEducational Leadership, The University ofTexas-Pan American

George H. McShan Member, Harlingen CISD Board ofTrustees / Educational Consultant

Angelica PerezEdinburg CISD Gifted & Talented Specialist


THIS SCHOOL YEARmake breakfast a priority

According to a survey by the USDA, 93 percent of Americans believe that breakfast is the most important meal of the day. Yet only 44 percent of Americans eat breakfast daily, and 20 percent of school children do not eat breakfast regularly. Breakfast breaks the overnight fast and fuels both body and brain for your daily activities. Frantic mornings often lead to skipping breakfast, so plan ahead. Stock your kitchen with the

ingredients to try some of the following recipes:

When you’re short on time and running out the door to school or work:

Get Up and Go! Green SmoothieINGREDIENTS DIRECTIONS½ 8-inch (large) banana1 cup skim milk 1 cup frozen pineapple 3 cups spinach or kale

1. Combine all ingredients in a blender.2. Blend until smooth.3. Add water, as needed, until desired thick-ness is achieved.

Nutrition Facts: 275 Calories, 45 grams carbohydrateApproximate Cost: $1.63 Compare to: $3.49 + tax for fast food fruit smoothie You save $2.15!

By: Amanda Celine Longoria, RDN, LD, CDE


h e a lt h c o r n e r

9Texas Scholars Magazine | Summer 2014Doctors Hospital at Renaissance proudly meets the federal definition of a “physician-owned hospital” (42 CFR § 489.3). The physicians on our outstanding medical staff are not employees or agents of the hospital contractors whose professional relationship is directly with the patient.

5525 Doctors Drive / Edinburg, TX 78539 (956)362-5650 / www.dhr-rgv.com

When you’re short on time and running out the door to school or work:

When you have five minutes to prepare breakfast in the morning:

Bean & Egg TacoINGREDIENTS DIRECTIONSNonstick cooking spray½ cup fat-free refried pinto beans, canned1 extra large egg1 100% whole wheat tortilla1 cup romaine lettuce, shredded½ cup tomatoes, diced

1. Heat skillet on stove to medium heat. Coat with nonstick cooking spray.2. Add refried beans to skillet, then add egg and scramble.3. Heat tortilla on stovetop.4. Place egg and bean mixture in tortilla. Top with plenty of lettuce and tomato.

Nutrition Facts: 300 Calories, 30 grams carbohydrateApproximate Cost: $0.75Compare to: $2.53 + tax for 1 fast food breakfast taco You save $1.99!

On a Saturday morning before your morning walk or work-out:

Whole Wheat Banana Pancake Stack

INGREDIENTS DIRECTIONS2 cups 100% whole wheat flour3 Tablespoons brown sugar1 ½ teaspoons baking powder½ teaspoon baking soda2 large bananas (8 inches each)1 ½ cups skim milk1 Tablespoon canola oil2 eggsNonstick cooking spray

1. Combine dry ingredients (first 4 ingredients) in a large bowl.2. Combine moist ingredients (remaining ingredients, except cooking spray) in a medium bowl.3. Add moist ingredients to dry ingredients. Stir to combine.4. Heat pan on stove to medium heat. Coat with nonstick cooking spray. Pour 1/3 cup portions of batter into pan. Top with banana slices. 5. Once the bottom side is golden brown, flip pancake over so banana side is facing down. Cook until golden brown.

Suggested Portion: 3 pancakes with 1 cup coffee and ½ cup skim milk Nutrition Facts: 400 Calories, 60 grams carbohydrateApproximate Cost: $0.47 Compare to: $3.48 + tax for fast food hotcake plate (3) with coffeeYou save $3.30!

Recipe Yield: about 13 pancakes

Amanda Celine Longoria, RDN, LD, CDE, is a registered and licensed dietitian nutritionist and certified diabetes educator at Joslin Diabetes Center at Doctors Hospital at Renaissance in Edinburg, Texas. She is a graduate of McAllen Memorial High School and The University of Texas at Austin. Write to Amanda at [email protected] with your comments and questions about nutrition and health.

Food is our fuel. Include a balanced breakfast every morning to give your body the jump start it needs, and you will feel more focused, energized, productive and positive. If you’re running late, grab a piece of fresh fruit, nonfatyogurt, low-fat string cheese, hardboiled egg, or a small handful of unsalted nuts. Your body will thank you for it later.


OSCARLORENZO

ANDALONZO

ISAAC ALANIZ


Rio Hondo’s Alaniz Brothers Tee Off


O scar, the elder of the brothers, is 15 years old. Oscar attends Rio Hondo High School and just completed his sophomore year. He became the first two time district champion for the Rio Hondo Bobcats, leading his team to the Region 4 Regionals Tournament held in Corpus Christi.

During the golf season, Oscar led all golfers in his district with a 79.5 scoring average. At the Regionals Tournament, Oscar carded a 79/75 to finish 7th out of 96 golfers, just three strokes from qualifying for state.

Although he did not qualify for state, his season was still a success. He was rewarded by being named 1st team All District, District MVP, and 2nd Team All Valley.

This summer, Oscar is giving back to the community by helping out at Junior Golf Clinics held at Tony Butler andTreasure Hills Golf Club. His brother, Alonzo, has also helped teach kids at both these clinics with Oscar.

Alonzo has come off a good year, qualifying for the STPGA Championship held at Cypress Golf Club in Houston, Texas, shooting an 85. What is special about this tournament for Alonzo is that his older brother, Oscar, was able to be hiscaddie throughout the tournament.

GOLF IS WIDELY CONSIDERED A GREAT FAMILY SPORT. FOR BROTHERS OSCAR AND ALONZO ALANIZ, THIS COULDN’T RING MORE TRUE, AS BOTH HAVE PLAYED MANY ROUNDS OF GOLF TOGETHER AT LOCAL GOLF COURSES THROUGHOUT THE RIO GRANDE VALLEY.

Oscar Lorenzo AlanizAlonzo Isaac Alaniz


12 Texas Scholars Magazine | Summer 2014 2014

Recently voted as

“Best TV Personality 2014”

in the VMS Readers’

Choice Awards

l e a d e r s


MARCYMARTINEZ

By: Eder Castillo

I’m so proud to say I was born and raised in the Rio GrandeValley,” said Mary Martinez. “More specifically, Harlingen,because this area is all about family and community, and I’m a product of that.” The Harlingen High School South alumna and

Action 4 News anchor graduated from HHSS in 1996 before heading off to Kingsville where she attended Texas A&M University Kingsville, receiving her Bachelor of Arts in Communications. “I chose Texas A&M University Kingsville because I had basically grown up around the university. My parents, sisters, and their husbands went to school there. I knew it was the place I would fit in and thrive. It was a second home for me.

we’re all one big family


M artinez comes from afamily of educators . Her mother taught kinder and two of her three siblings

have a teaching background as well. “My sister Melissa is a 5th grade teacher and absolutely adored by each of her students,” said Martinez. “My sister Marisa became an elementary teacher after graduating college and worked her way up to Principal, and she is currently attending school for her doctorate in hopes of becoming a superintendent. My little sister Melinda got her degree in communications and is a stay at home mom for now.”

Both of Martinez’s parents have played a significant role in her life. “My mother was instrumental in so many young lives that I knew whatever I pursued as a career I had to make a difference like she did,” said Martinez. “Dad is the leader of this all-female group! He’s been an entrepreneur, a grant writer, a member of city government, but more importantly, he’s the man who is always there for his girls.” Although Martinez did ponder becoming a teacher after graduating college, that was not her first choice before heading to Kingsville.

“I went to college with the idea I was going to be a professional singer! No, really. I was a music major and had a scholarship for it, but after my first semester, I knew I wasn’t going to make a career of it,” said Martinez. “An advisor asked me what else I was good at and I said ‘talking,’ and I became a communications major right then and there and well, the rest is history.”Martinez wasted no time after receiving her degree, returning home andbecoming a news anchor with KGBT-TV at the age of 22. “I did considerteaching when I first graduated from college because I was a substitute

teacher momentarily before being hired by KGBT-TV. I loved the interaction with children, but I had an opportunity to go into television and I took it.”

Martinez started as a morning anchor at KGBT. Through dedication, Martinez worked her way up,becoming an anchor for the evening news. “Working atAction 4 News has been a blessing”Martinez said. “Hard work, but very rewarding, especially being able toco-anchor with some of the anchors and weather personalities I had watched growing up. I was the morning anchor for five years then moved to evenings where I work now as one of the main anchors at 6 and 10 p.m. It’s been such a grand learning experience over the past 13 years. Broadcast news has changed dramatically during the time I’ve been here.” With that experience, Martinez uses her expanded skill set,

shooting and editing her storieswithout the assistance ofphotographers or editors, making her a multi-media journalist. (MMJ)

Through her exemplary work, Martinez gained praise through the community receiving several awards. “Mercedes ISD has given me the Media Honor Roll Award twice in my news career, and I also received the award fromEdcouch-Elsa ISD a few years back,” said Martinez. “The award is for fair and balanced reporting about public schools and I’m absolutely honored that I’ve received it from multiple schooldistricts.” Another accolade Martinez has in her distinguished career isserving as the Master of Ceremonies for the past seven years. This is for the RGV Partnership’s award ceremony for the salutatorian’s and valedictorian’s from across the RGV.

Marcy receiving the 2014 Media Honor Roll award from Mercedes ISD.Pictured with: Superintendent Dr. Dan Trevino


“Every year it’s soexciting to see the top

students all in one roomtogether, they are the future of the valley and that’s why we encourage them to go out and get their degrees

and find their career paths, but to come back home to share that knowledge by

working here and becoming leaders in the communities where they were supported

their entire lives.”

With over 14,000 followers ontwitter and more than 50,000 followers on her Facebook fan page, Martinez knows how big of a role social media plays in today’s society. “Media is now social media, and even we as television personalities realize people are going to their Facebook or Twitter pages first for news, so we’ve adapted and Action 4 News is one of the leading stations on social media,” said Martinez. “El-ementary- aged students are learning to get their news from these sites. I believe it opens up a whole new world of education for them since many don’t sit in front of a TV to watch the news, but they will scroll through their feed on social media and see a story from KGBT pop up and it may peak their interest.” Recently voted as “Best TVPersonality 2014” in the VMS Readers’ Choice Awards, look for Martinez to keep providing the RGV with the latest up to date news with Action 4 News. Not only does Martinez love thecommunity she works for, but alsobelieves that, “We’re all one big family.”

May 2014 UTPA Spring Graduation Master of Ceremonies. Pictured with: UTPA President Dr. Robert S. Nelsen


Celeste SanchezSAN BENITO’S FIRST FEMALE MAYOR

This past May, the citizens of San Benito, Texas elected their first femalemayor, Celeste Zepeda Sanchez. Sanchez, who is the former San Benito City Commissioner and current SBCISD Assistant Superintendent of Curriculum and Instruction, has been involved in education for over 45 years. Since she was just a child, Sanchez knew she wanted to be involved witheducation.

By: Eder Castillo


e d u c a t o r s


SAN BENITO’S FIRST FEMALE MAYOR

When I was little, I would sit my dolls down and play school with them,” said Sanchez. “My mother only had an elementary education and my dad a middle school education, I believe stopping at the 8th

grade, but they always valued education.” Sanchezgraduated from San Benito High School, receiving herassociate’s degree from Texas Southmost College and then transferred to Texas A&I University (which is currently Texas A&M University-Kingsville) where she received her bachelor’s and master’s degree. Along with her parents and her sister, Sanchez’s grandparents played a major influence in hereducation, helping pay for her first year of college.

Growing up, Sanchez came across difficult situations but had a mindset of seeing those situations as challenges. “My mother brought us up with dichos” (Spanish for ‘sayings’), Sanchez said. “She would always tell me, “El que es buen gallo, en cualquier gallinero canta, y tu eres un gallo.” Anytime I wanted something but I didn’t get it, like class president, homecoming queen, or prom queen, she would tell me that saying. At the time, I didn’t know what it meant, but later I knew what she meant...”I could make it happen anywhere.”

When Sanchez first began hereducational career as a teacher at Ben Milam Elementary inHarlingen, she was a single parent raising three children (Art, Carlos and Luis). She knew she wanted to climb the career ladder, so she devoted herself to her children and her career. “I knew I wanted my children to have the same opportunities that I had. Going to college and having a good career,” Sanchez said.

After starting off as a teacher, Sanchez then became a teacher facilitator before becoming an assistant principal. Sanchez then moved to Lansing, Michigan, where she attended and taught at Michigan State University. Returning to San Benito after teaching eight years at MSU, Sanchez became a reading supervisor. Sanchez then went on to become the Gifted and Talented director for San Benito when Gifted and Talented became a mandate.

Sanchez continued to climb her career ladder as she applied and got a position to be an assistant superintendent in San Antonio, Texas. After eight years in San Antonio, Sanchez’sparents became ill, so she took the opportunity to apply at San Benito and return home. While serving as assistant superintendent, Sanchez ran for city commission, where she served for seven years.

“In the two years I was off the city commission, people kept asking me to run for mayor,” said Sanchez. “When I announced I was retiring, it was like perfect. I can now run for mayor. I had a good constituency base and respect from people in the community, so I said, why not?” Sanchez went on to win the election, becoming the first female mayor of the city of San Benito.

” I am very proud,because I feel like I have

opened the door toother females “

said Sanchez. “If I climb, I pull with me. In 105 years there had never been a female mayor in San Benito, and now I have shown that it ispossible, that we can think, analyze,synthesize, evaluate and makesound decisions.”

As mayor of San Benito, Sanchez hopes to make an impact and help the city improve. “I ran on the platform of a better San Benito, and I

think my vision is like everybody else’s vision when we were young,” said Sanchez. “It’s the vision of a self-sustainingcommunity, a community of choice, where people want to live in San Benito and they want to live here because we have good safe streets, good schools, shopping amenities, parks and a good way of life. So that’s what I’m going to work toward.”


RobynCHELSEARAMIREZ

M y name is Robyn Chelsea Ramirez. I am the daughter of Irma andRuben Ramirez. I have grown up in Mercedes, and am currently a member of the Mercedes Tiger band and NHS. I attend Mercedes

Early College Academy. Their goal is to have each of their students graduate with an associate’s degree by the time they finish high school.

By doing this, students are offered a college experience. It’s nice to have more freedom, but that doesn’t make school any easier. Deciding to attend an early college has affected my high school experience in more ways than I ever could have imagined. The decisions I’m currently making, involving my education, will either open doors or close them. My future

is entirely in my own hands, and there’s more trust that I will complete my work. In college level courses, there is more freedom, and it results in a more self-driven attitude from the students. A higher education is all about how strong one wants it, and that is where the responsibility of going andgetting it comes in. Usually, the shift from high school to

M E C A S t u d e n t F i n d s E a r ly S u c c e s s a t S T C

student spotlight

s t u d e n t s


college is a big leap because most students aren’t used to having that responsibility falling completely on theirshoulders, but I’m hopeful that, with my current experiences, making that transition will be a little bit easier.

With the future arising and my collegeeducation already in my hands, it is

important to have some idea in what I want to do in my life. .

Truthfully, I am still confused, but I think that is better than rushing into something I’m not 100 percent about. For future careers, I’ve pondered the idea of becoming a postsecondary music teacher or a mental health counselor. These two stick out to me more than anything because I’m passionate about band and I can see myself working with music for the rest of my life. At the same time, however, I love helping people and making a positive impact in their lives. These two careers are still only ideas, and as I change, so will my vision for the future.

I have been inspired by so many people and things around me that it wouldn’t be fair to point out just one. There are historical figures, books, inventors, and activists that have all contributed in shaping my idea of what I should do with my capabilities and opportunities The people who have made the biggest impacts in my life most definitely include my family. My older brothers are both incredibly intelligent and have extended my vocabulary while exposing me to topics that the average teenager wouldn’t hear about. My parents, especially my mother, have made it a point time and time again to remind me that my education isimportant. There are high standards in my house that,although difficult to meet, have pushed me to my greatestcapabilities. My friends have also been incredibly supportive and have been there for me through all the late nights of stress and exhaustion. They’ve always been there to keep me level-headed and help me relax when I’m overworked. I wouldn’t be able to accomplish what I have without thesupport of my friends, family, and my teachers.

“ “


M E C A S t u d e n t F i n d s E a r ly S u c c e s s a t S T C


GeorgeMcShanOver 30 Years of Visionary Leadership

G eorge McShan has lived in Harlingen for over 40 years and was em-ployed 32 years at Texas State Technical College - Harlingen, the last 20 years as college dean. He has served on the HCISD Board of Trustees

since 1988. He has served in every officer position, including six different times as President. During his tenure, numerous honors have been bestowed on the board, including the recognition of Best Board in Texas 1993 and Superin-tendent of the Year 1993. In 1998-1999, he was elected President of the Texas Association of School Boards, its first African American, and in 2004, he was elected President of the National School Boards Association, only the second Texan to hold this position in its 66-year history.

He has a successful record of visionary leadership andaccomplishment in facilitating partnerships and collaborative initiatives with public school districts, higher educationinstitutions, businesses within the industry. His ability tomotivate, and empower ordinary people to achieveextraordinary results is invaluable. Over the years, McShan has demonstrated success in working with college faculty, public school teachers, administrators, Texas Higher EducationCoordinating Board staff, students and community leaders for decision making and management. This native Texan has a strong history of being able to work well with multicultural groups at all levels and has an affinity for organizationaldiversity.

His ability to work with elected officials and policy makers at the local, state and national levels adds to his extensive professional experience.

He has even worked closely with the U. S. Department of

Education and former Secretary, Rod Paige, in facilitatingcollaborative partnerships with the National School Boards Association

McShan has extensive experience in curriculumdevelopment, new program implementation, management and supervision of faculty and staff in instructional application of technology in educating students. His peers recognize in him a strong work ethic, enthusiasm and energy to sustain high visibility.

The Harlingen resident has a proven success record as apublic servant, fundraiser, public speaker with communitysupport from the public and private sector.

In 2006, he was selected to receive the TASB Celebration of Leadership Award, which honors school board members who have made a significant contribution to their community. In 2006, he was the recipient of the Annual National Hispanic

l e a d e r s


Caucus (Abrazo) Award foroutstanding leadership, as well as the recipient of the Lifetime PTA Member-ship for Texas and the National PTA Association. McShan is certified as a Master School Board Trustee by TASB and is a registered provider by the TexasEducation Agency for School Board/Superintendent training. According to McShan, he has been blessed to have the opportunity to serve in a greatcommunity that values and invests in public education. When he ran for the school board in 1988, his message was “Every Student Can Succeed”. Little did he know at the time that he would be in a position to be the nation’s advocate for all 47 million children who attend public schools. “The shaping of America’s future through our public educationsystem will require collaborativeinitiatives that are more comprehensive in scope than ever before. There is no greater good, than the investment inAmerica’s most precious and priceless resource - our children,”said McShan. “This is why I serve, and it is my vision and passion to see the dreams of all children become a reality in thisglobal society. It’s not necessarilythe place that matters, but it’s the people that matter. I’m here andI focus on the people and the youngpeople are a part of that. I wantto make sure that everybodyhas an opportunity to reachtheir potential. I say thatevery child should have theopportunity to reach theirhopes and dreams in life.But, when the opportunitycomes, they have to beprepared. That’s why theymust have a high qualityeducation.”

“I say, with everything that we do, we have to make sure that our moral compass is clear. That we treat

people with dignity, respect and honor, regardless of ethnicity, gender, orientation or religion.”

Texas Scholars Magazine | Summer 2014 21


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