January 12, 2007

Here we go again with a new year, 2007. Many of you look forward to a new year with

anticipation of exciting adventures to come. Others look back with fond reflections of

last year and sweet memories. I like to think of a new year as turning the page to start

a new chapter in our lives. After reading an editorial column in the Texarkana Gazette

by Bill Maxwell about the KIPP Schools founded by David Levin and Michael

Feinberg, I began to think about what he said. The KIPP Schools have two simple and

strict rules…. “Work Hard” and “Be Nice” What a change it could make in our school

if teachers, students and parents would practice those simple rules. That’s my wish for

all of us “Work Hard and Be Nice” in 2007….Susan Simmons, Newsletter Editor.

 

Update on Construction…Mike Walker, Superintendent

Construction for the new Ashdown High School is currently about seventy percent (70%)

complete. Bids for flooring have been awarded and installation will occur as areas within

the building are completed. Cabinets and Lab tables are being installed and interior

furniture and décor is in the process of being selected and ordered.

The existing Gym’s heating and air system is nearly completed. Painting in the Gym is

also complete and the final finishing touches will be completed in the spring after

basketball season.

Bids have been awarded for the new track construction. Work will begin on that project

as weather conditions allow. The parking lot paving will also be completed as weather

permits.

The Athletic building has been completed and is currently being used; however, a few

minor corrections are still being made to the building.

Approximately thirty percent (30%) of the building is not enclosed and the interior work

in those areas will be completed as they are ready for finishing.

We are anticipating a March completion date for the finishing of this project. Generally

we are pleased with the progress of the project thus far. We are working with the

contractors to resolve any problem areas. Our concerns are being addressed and resolved

in a timely manner.

We are looking forward to occupying our new state of the art facility. We appreciate the

Ashdown community for their efforts to make this needed addition to our school system a

reality and a source of pride for our community.

 

Congratulations to the 7th grade Quiz Bowl team. They won 1st place in the Delight

Invitational Quiz Bowl yesterday. Congratulations also to the 8th & 9th grade team. They

placed 2nd in their division.

Athletic Booster Club meeting is planned for Jan 18 at 7 p.m. at Cossatot Community

College. Anyone interested is encouraged to attend or call Glen Ray Bowman at 903-

824-5000.

 

The Ashdown High School Agriculture Building had two recent break-ins. Mr.

Walker stated “force was used to gain entrance through a door at the end near the Senior

Building. A large screen television and other electronic items were stolen. Steps are

being taken to prevent anyone entering that way again.”

Hooray, we have a new van…The District has purchased a much needed newer van. It

is a gold, 2006 Chevrolet Uplander with seating for 6.

 

Ashdown staff and students were shocked by the sudden death of High School senior,

Alisha Proksch on Dec. 29. Alisha is survived by her parents, Mario and Kimberly

Proksch and sister, Krystal. She will be remembered for her vibrant personality.

 

Ashdown Schools will be out on Monday.

 

WANTED The Community Enrichment Center has a need for baby items to distribute to

families. If you have any equipment, supplies or clothing, please call Kim Befeld at 898-

4469.

And in Closing . . .

"Knowledge is a process of piling up facts; wisdom lies in their simplification."

— Martin Luther King, Jr.

Mark Your Calendar

"AROUND THE WORLD"-C.D. Franks Spring Program

MAY 17th 2007 starting with a world tour at 6:30 followed

by a program at 7:30!

Retirement Reception-May 31