February has been celebrated as a month of romance widely believed to originate from both Christianity and ancient Roman tradition. The month is celebrated with gift giving to one another and celebrates the love shared between loved ones on a specific day, February 14th. 

“I’ve always loved the month of February, the tradition of giving gifts to someone you love dearly and being able to express your love for one another in such a beautiful way,” Ward shares. “But I want to bring awareness to the possible negatives of a relationship, especially in teen relationships.” 

Ward dedicates a week to teaching students around campus about the possible negatives in teen dating. There are multiple types of abuse in a relationship, including physical, mental, verbal, financial and more. 

“I want to educate the younger generation about all the different types of abuse in a relationship that they should look out for,” Ward says. “It’s also surprising to see student reactions when I tell them that financial abuse is a real thing, or just when I tell them that physical abuse isn’t the only type of abuse. It’s in those moments that I wish I could inform the whole world of such issues of abuse.” 

Fortunately, Ward has been able to share messages on abuse and the associated warning signs with receptive students. 

Ward has many ways of making sure students get the proper information teen dating violence. Students on the student committee share presentations going over the different forms of abuse that students may face in a relationship without recognizing the signs.

To help spread awareness, staff members also wear orange shirts with awareness messaging. The shirts have the phrase ‘Love is Respect’ on the upper left hand corner near the shoulder in bold black text and on the back is a solid black ribbon with the letters ‘TDV,’ which represents “Teen Dating Violence. 

“The shirts are supposed to grab the attention of students to see that there is a safe place for them if they need the help,” Wards shares. “My goal is to help students who are in need of help. I’ve helped so many teens from this school and others in the past who were in some pretty difficult relationships, and honestly it was dangerous for them to be in the positions they were in. I want to let people who are going through similar situations or worse know I am here for them and that they aren’t alone.” 

There are words of affirmation posted all around campus and in the restrooms to uplift the students. The objective is for students to feel “heard,” “seen” and of course to know that there is assistance to help combat issues of teen dating violence.

Ward doesn’t plan on stopping her from educating those who need help, if you have any further questions or need someone to talk to she is located in room 210, the hotline number is 1-866-331-9474.

Stephens is one of five teachers in AISD to receive the certification; one in 1,570 teachers in the State of Texas; and one of 147,000 teachers in the entire nation. The certification was made to recognize the accomplishments and improvements teachers make throughout their careers. 

‘’The National Board program has been the most impactful professional development experience of my three-decade career,’’ Stephen says. ‘’It has deepened my commitment to my students and their learning, enhanced my understanding of mathematics and improved my teaching methods. I’ve become more adept at managing and monitoring my students’ progress and have embraced a reflective approach to learning from my experiences. Each morning, I look forward to going to work and continuously improving as an educator.”

The certification was not earned overnight for Stephens, but was a two year process. The certification isn’t handed out to everyone once they hit a certain number of years as a teacher – only a select number of with respectable careers achieve this honor.

“It was a great deal of work that I had to put in for the certification,” Stephens says. “I am glad I was able to accomplish it and I will continue to commit to getting better as a teacher.”

Stephens was able to accept the certification on January 19th from members of the AISD Board. To his delight, he was accompanied by many of his peers there to support him.

“I was so glad to be surrounded by my wrestlers present and past, Coach Roberts and my wife Monica,” Stephens shares. “Having everyone there seeing me accomplish something so big in my career was honestly the best feeling ever.”

The TXWF is a foundation of leaders that pushes the meaning of social and economic change for women in Texas. They help bring awareness to the struggles that women in Texas face and how to overcome hardships. 

TXWF has accomplished many things since its foundation in 1985 to help support Texas women who are in need. They have awarded $78.9 million in grants over 38 years to become the largest women’s funding system in the world with over $36 million in assets. Just this year alone – the foundation has invested $7.1 million in strategic initiatives and programs, as well as grants that support women’s economic security.

Several Lamar students were afforded the opportunity to attend the luncheon to experience a once in a lifetime opportunity to hear from many empowering women like 2024 Miss Texas Annette Addo- Yobo and world-renowned journalist Ann Curry.

“It feels really nice to be invited to something so big like that,” sophomore Audrey Woods says. “It lets me know that people see the good in me and they want to encourage me to do big things.”

Annette Addo-Yobo was definitely a highlight of the luncheon, as she spoke to the crowd about how to make positive changes in society. She explained how being a woman doesn’t limit you to doing things you strive to do. She’s all about positivity which makes her the perfect fit to represent Texas in January at the Miss America Pageant.

“My goal is to empower women and young girls to stand up and fight for a change,” Annette states. “I am beyond grateful to make a speech and help project the voices of Texas women all around the world. The beauty of today is to make Texas women’s voices so powerful that they will make a difference in this community.”

Annette has already made history by becoming the first immigrant-born woman to win the title of Miss Texas. Reaching such a position was no easy feat. 

“I was born in Ghana and raised in both Canada and the U.S.,” Annette says. “I had to face many challenges during my high school and college life because of my status as an immigrant. It was hard for me in the beginning but in 2022 I finally got my citizenship. I didn’t have a lot of friends growing up – I was always that girl who was friends with everybody but never had a friend group. I really struggled growing up but when I entered the pageant community two years ago I never felt more welcomed. I hope to empower others to speak up about their struggles and make everyone feel welcome. I don’t want anyone to feel alone, and so now I make it my mission to make others feel welcomed.”

Many other powerful women were on hand to give speeches at the luncheon including Effie Dennison of Texas Capital Bank, TXWF President and CEO Karen Hughes White, Target Field Operations Executive Sousan Ortega, TXWF Board member Carrie Freeman Parsons, and Krys Boyd of KERA. 

Ann Curry has become a staple in the journalism community, as she is a National News Emmy Award-winning journalist. To date – Curry has won the Edward R. Murrow Award, three Gracie Allen Awards, the National Headliner Awards, and various philanthropic awards.

During the luncheon, Curry was interviewed by Krys Boyd who serves as Host and Managing Editor of KERA’S Think, talk radio program, and she focuses on how Curry uses her voice for telling stories that matter to society. She also talks about her father and their relationship growing up and how he is an inspiration to her to this day.

“When I was younger I asked my dad what I should be when I grow up,” Ann Curry tells Kyrs Boyd. “He said ‘Ann, whatever you do, do something that is of some service to somebody else. And then and only then when you breathe your last breath, that it mattered that you were born.’ And he would say it over and over throughout the years so I chose journalism as an act of service.”

The luncheon really opened the eyes of the students who attended. Sophomore Gia Knight was inspired by the speakers and their unique messages. 

“It was very fun and I learned a lot about the foundation and these amazing women,” Knight says. “They have inspired me and given me new perspectives on what to do in the future.”

This unique field trip opportunity was made possible by English II teacher Dr. Kapreta Johnson.

Simmons has been with Lamar for 10 years and has thoroughly enjoyed her position; one in which she’s been privileged to meet so many students and staff members. 

Her career in education spans 22 years and Simmons sees herself continuing in the field for quite awhile.

“I’ve worked at a lot of different schools with all types of different personalities,” Simmons shares. “But Lamar is a totally different ballpark – I’ve enjoyed being here which is why I’ve been here so long. I’ve met so many wonderful people who are extremely kind and constantly remind me why I love my job so much.”

One doesn’t simply become a high school counselor. It is required that you serve as a teacher before becoming a counselor. Before moving into her role as a counselor – Simmons was a very dedicated Spanish teacher.

“In the beginning of my career I taught at a junior high in Bryan, Texas,” Simmons says. “I also taught at South Oak Cliff High School in Dallas. I went on to be a counselor at Sunset High School, which is also in Dallas.”

In her free time, Simmons loves to read, write, bicycle, hike, swim, and do arts and crafts. She likes to keep herself active and reminiscent about when she used to travel the world. 

“I’ve been to many places in my life.” Simmos says. “I have been through most of Western Europe, China, Vietnam, Mexico, Canada, Costa Rica, and a few countries in the Caribbean Islands. I really enjoyed traveling, especially when I was traveling for my education.”

Simmons spent a good portion of her life traveling and even went out of the country to study. That’s where the love for travel originated.

“I studied a semester in Spain when I was in college,” Simmons says. “After that I spent a month in Berlin after I left college. I attended Texas A&M University for my bachelors degree, Georgetown University in Washington D.C for my masters degree and for my teaching and counseling certifications I went to Texas A&M Commerce.”

Dorian Jensen, a counselor here at Lamar, has worked alongside Simmons for about many years. He speaks fondly about who she is as a person and his experience working with her.

“She is extremely hard working,” Jensen states. “She is always going above and beyond and is always making sure everyone is okay. She is always making jokes and keeping the room bright. I have enjoyed working with her.”

It’s traditional to have only one person be Thor throughout the school year, but this year we get to experience something new. We introduce our first Thorina in several years, Senior Sayuri Harris. Breaking tradition and beating odds she nominated herself to take on the Thorina role and represent our school.

“This is my first year being in Thor Corps, let alone being Thorina,” Harris exclaims. “I saw the Thor Corps last year and I really wanted to join the fun and be able to represent Lamar. Seeing them with bursts of energy to support and hype up the students and staff before games was something I felt I would enjoy, so I was quick to join this year. I have a whole bunch of energy so now that I am Thorina I can let it all out and not be judged, which is pretty cool in my opinion.”

Harris already knew some of the students in the Thor Corps, her and a few of her close friends talked about trying out this year and joining.

Senior Isley Ali who is captain of the Boys Swim team is the official Thor this year, he will be alongside her during games and pep rallies. They have already known eachother since last year and have been her best friends since August of 2023.

“I love having her as Thorina with me,” Ali says. “I found out she wanted to join Thor Corps when I was talking about wanting to become Thor this year. A few other of my friends were also trying out so we were pretty excited.”

Harris is described as a fun, confident, easy to talk to and a funny person to be around. You can see the enthusiasm in her eyes and how she portrays herself to others. She keeps her head held high and strives for high things to accomplish, becoming Thorina was one of them.

One year ago – Newspaper, Photojournalism and the Yearbook all represented three different class periods. This year, all three classes are in 8th period and work together as Lamar Student Media. 

The Lamar Scroll newspaper, the yearbook – Valhalla and our talented  Lamar photojournalists are now all coexisting in one creative space while creating something that has been never done before. 

Having all the staff in one class provides for a great system – it’s so much easier to communicate with one another since we are all in one space. The communication and the bonds we’re building are great experiences. As the editor for both publications, I can honestly say this will be the best year of my four years here at Lamar. Everyone has amazing talent and their minds are unbelievably creative in the journalism and photography world. 

Having different feelings and opinions on all the big changes happening to  the staff isn’t something new. Junior Karen Castillo is a second year yearbook student and now serves as the Social Media Manager for Lamar Student Media has some things to say about the new changes.

“I really like having all the members of student media in one class,” Castillo says. “It’s so much easier to get information from other writers and photographers because we are all in the same room. The functional chaos makes our space feel like a real newsroom. The new setup better prepares those of us who want to work for newspaper and magazine companies in the future.” 

Having newspaper, photojournalism and yearbook in one class is a new challenge that Ms. Talton is excited to take on. 

“I was initially a bit concerned about having three different courses in one room and during the same class period,” Talton explains. “The collective represents Lamar Student Media and serves one common purpose – to provide accurate and engaging coverage to the Lamar community.” 

Senior Celeste Elvik is a second year newspaper student and also loves the new change of having all the student media publications in one class. 

Stephens serves as a role model to many Lamar students. He is well-loved because of his charismatic personality and his determined spirit.

When he learned of the honor last Friday afternoon, he was surrounded with love and support from the girl’s wrestling team.

“I’m very humbled,” Stephens says. “There were a lot of great candidates that were nominated for Teacher of the Year, so this is such a great honor for me to experience.”

Students and staff who have met Stephens will agree that he is an humble, caring and soft spoken man with great pride. This is Stephens’ second Teacher of the Year honor during his 18 years at Lamar. He last won during the 2014- 2015 school year. After nine years, he regained his title by keeping his head held high and doing what he does best – being himself.

“I think it was well deserved,” girl’s wrestling Captain Kaylynn Lairson shares. “He really deserves this highlight and spotlight. He’s extremely humble about this award and honestly, I wouldn’t give this title to anyone else and I can’t express how how happy I am for him.”

The girl wrestlers were with Stephens in his classroom to celebrate the honor on Friday. They cheered him on, screaming and hugging him out of pure joy. This is an experience that the athletes and Stephens will always remember.

“He supports you and your decisions everyday – no doubt about it,” freshman Maya Cobos says. He’s really smart and is a very gentle man with good intentions. If you need someone to talk to and just be there for you, you can always count on him to be there.” 

Stephens is a man of great morals and values. This shows in his teaching style, as he is very much the disciplinarian and the innovative teacher. He pushes his students to the max and encourages them to always get better. Stephens knows what his students are capable of and wants to see them become successful young ladies and men. He sees the support he receives from his students and colleagues and wants to give that same support right back to them. 

“To be able to celebrate my accomplishment with my team was a fantastic experience,” Stephens expresses. “I’m so excited I’m able to enjoy this with the team and with Coach Roberts. The atmosphere was a real joy and made me feel special.” 

It’s not uncommon to hear Stephens’ athletes share great stories about him. He is not only a true leader, but a real advocate for the team. 

“He has his own goals and expresses them to us,” Lairson adds. “He helps keep us in line, but we also have so much fun with him. We’ve even made a few jokes about him. We call him Baymax from Big Hero 6 because he’s just a joyful character. Our team loves and appreciates everything he’s done for us and I hope others can experience just how wonderful of a person he actually is.”

It’s very rare that big companies or academies visit our CTC, but when they do it’s an opportunity of a lifetime for those students to get more knowledge and even some job opportunities.

The Blue Collar Tour is a tour that the Western Welding Academy started in early January. The group has traveled all around the country to give students the opportunity to learn a new weld, receive new welding materials and Western Welding Academy merchandise.

“This tour was created and put into action to give opportunities to learn new things for our upcoming welders,” spokesperson Quacy Wilson said. ”I hope this experience will push students to make welding a long term career. I also hope they will forever remember this opportunity.”

The day began at 9:30 a.m. with introductions from the speakers. They explained expectations for the day. The instructor, Nolan Brunn, went step by step and made certain to describe how to do the weld, along with the safety precautions.

“I’ve been welding for a pretty long time,” Brunn stated. ”The one thing I can tell these kids is to be extra careful, don’t burn yourself and especially watch how much gas you use because you can accidentally blow up.”

Welding teachers Christian Mendez and Christopher Gonzalez were very excited for the students. Mendez expressed his gratitude by stating, “I appreciate everything the CTC gives these students to prepare themselves for the real workforce and expose them to Academies such as Western Welding.”

At various times of the day Wilson allowed students to spin a wheel with all the participants’ names. On each column was an opportunity to win a free prize. The winner had the chance to pick between a face cover, a gator, or a flag with the W.W.A logo as well as earn a W.W.A t-shirt. Two lucky winners got something a little more special, one was able to get a Dewalt Grinder and the other was able to get a Dewalt Tool Bag.

The day was an overall success for everyone, Elijah Tillman was especially thankful stating, “I am thankful to get the opportunity to meet everyone and learn a new weld for myself. Everyone was awesome and I really am taking welding seriously and plan on making this as my future career.”

Vazquez has had a long journey in education and wants to continue a trend of success for many years to come. 

“I’ve been in education for 21 years now,” she shares. “I was at Sam Houston for five years as an Assistant Principal.” Vazquez. I also was a Dean of Instruction in Irving ISD.” 

Vazquez also served as a Bilingual ASL Coordinator for four years, so she arrives to Lamar with a great deal of experience. Throughout her two decades of service, she has seen it all, but she says Lamar stands out from all her other schools.

 “High school is high school –  every high school has different wants and needs and I think the difference I have seen about Lamar that makes it stand out is the intensity.” 

On the weekend of January 19th and 20th the girls competed and attained “ALL STATE’’ status by placing 6th place, and now find themselves going to Wichita Falls.

“I’m so proud of my team, it was a new experience for all of us,” captain Kaylynn Lairson stated. ”We haven’t been to the state dual since 2007 so we were expected to place 13th but we proved to people that we can be and do better and beat those standards by taking home 6th place.”

After a weekend of hard work, the girls went out to celebrate the great weekend. Sophomore Luna Estrada explained how the team celebrated the big win.

“We got Chipotle afterwards,” Luna shares. “Now we’re all overweight, so we have to lose all this weight before State.” 

The members of this year’s All-State team are Ariel Hernandez, Ada Onyekwere, Lilibeth Escamilla, Abigail Hernandez, Kaylen Noyola Martinez, Ana Hernandez, Kaylynn Lairson, Kyleigh Costilla, Jaylah Davenport, Kamryn Green, Luna Estrada, Melanie Escobedo, Natalie Caldera, Okaleigh Porter, Elna Tudora and Sariah Anderson.